Olympic flags raised to mark handover of games

THEY may not be taking place until 2012, but preparations are already underway in Shetland for the London Olympics.

This weekend will see two Olympic flags raised in the isles, to commemorate the handover of the games from China to the UK.

A flag bearing the Olympic rings will be raised at the Baltasound Boating Club in Unst on Sunday by resident Duncan Sandison.

To mark the occasion, he will be joined by local athletes Faye and Jenny Richardson.

The flag will have the distinction of being the UK’s most northern standard to feature the Olympic symbol.

Meanwhile, chairman of the Shetland Island Games Association, Andrew Inkster, will raise another Olympic flag above the County Buildings in Lerwick, as part of a ceremony organised by the local Territorial Army and cadet force.