Visitors flock to Lerwick for Up-Helly-A’

Visitors from far and wide made for their first glimpse of the Guizer Jarl and his squad with a flurry of photographers and a Norwegian film crew surrounding the green and white Nils Olav at Alexandra Wharf.

Matthew Rea and Jenny Haslam travelled up from Edinburgh for the big day.

Matthew said the Jarl’s Squad suits were fantastic and was very impressed by their attention to detail.

Colin Ferguson said he was thoroughly enjoying his first experience of Up-Helly-A’ having travelled north from Newcastle.

He said it was great to see folk of all ages being involved in the festival. “It gives it a really good family feel to this part of the morning,” he said.

Neil Wright from Essex thought the Jarl’s Squad suits were “very impressive”

“Clearly a lot of effort and creativity has gone into them,” he added.

“The weapons are particularly well made, a lot of craftsmanship has clearly gone into it.”

Dawn Hindley, Christine Egerton and John Taylor from Manchester, were wrapped up warm and were happily taking in the festivities.

They first heard of Up Helly-A’ on BBC programme Coast and Dawn said her late mother was a big fan of Vikings and was a regular visitor to Scotland. They were given a special look inside the galley shed last night.

“I can’t tell you how nice the people are,everywhere we go,” said Dawn.

“The people of the Shetland Isles should be proud,” she added.