Tuesday 31/01/12
Shetland's fire festival got off to a flying start on Tuesday morning when the Toll Clock Shopping Centre was invaded by over 70 rowdy vikings from the Lerwick Jarl Squad. Led by Jarl David Nicolson, the invasion took place at 08:30 marching into the car park led by the Lerwick Pipe Band, they then trooped into the centre much to the delight of our customers, (many of whom were tucking into their breakfast at the Skipidock and the Olive Tree cafes!)
In good spirits, the Jarl Squad treated all the spectators to a couple of raucus songs before presenting George Sutherland, the centre's managing director, with a plaque thanking him for his support of Up Helly Aa through the years. After a quick refreshment stop the vikings mustered outside the Minimarket where they were met by the galley, the pipe band and the brass band before they marched over to the British Legion for the second stop of their action-packed day.
A full day and night awaits the Jarl squad with obligations around Lerwick followed by the galley burning at night and visitations to the local halls. We're sure it's going to be a memorable day for everyone involved. We look forward to welcoming the Jarl squad back again next year for our annual invasion!