Norwegian naval academy visit

Scalloway Museum recently welcomed a group of cadets from Norwegian sail training vessel Statsraad Lehmkuhl for a wreath laying ceremony at the Shetland Bus Memorial and a tour of the Prince Olav Slipway and museum.

During the service at the Memorial, trustee Stephen Leask paid tribute to the strong bonds between Shetland and Norway, saying that:

“The brave men remembered here fought for the freedom of their nation, and this gathering today celebrates the commitment made by our young Norwegian visitors who continue to cherish and honour that freedom.

"The strong bond between Shetland and Norway were forged in these times of hardship and danger and continue to this day, as these words from Captain Anderson of Oygarten, one of our regular visitors, verify.

"'It is a fact that the events of World War Two took place many years ago and some of those who remember this period are growing old and will pass away. In my opinion, it is our duty to maintain and develop the strong bonds and good relations these people established between Shetland and Norway. It is great to see that younger generations are now taking over and want to continue this relationship.’"

Scalloway was a crucial base for the Shetland Bus Operation and cadets had the opportunity to visit the Prince Olav Slipway which was recently restored by the museum with funding from both Shetland and Norway.

Cadets then enjoyed a tour of the museum from Bill Moore where they had the opportunity to learn more about the Shetland Bus Operation.

Scalloway Museum has extensive displays related to the Shetland Bus Operation, and visitors can learn more about this wartime operation during visits.

Scalloway Museum reopens for the season on 1st May.