Up Helly Aa
This week would have been one of the most important in our school calendar – the week leading to Up Helly Aa. This is the first of our Unst fire festivals; celebrating the closing of Winter.
In normal times, we would have spent much the previous months planning, designing, making and building in the lead up a torch-lit procession and a weekend of entertainment.
Unfortunately, in 2021 it has been postponed due to COVID-19 although this excellent video clip by Promote Shetland captures what it means to us and what we are looking forward to returning.
If you’re paying attention, you will see former students, staff and members of the community in the video – can you spot them all?
About The Author
P. Thomson
Paul Thomson is a full time member of the Unst community, Retained Firefighter with Scottish Fire & Rescue Service and Head Teacher at Baltasound Junior High School - the UK's most northerly school.