Wishart looks forward to welcoming Tall Ships Races to Lerwick

On the eve of the first day of Tall Ships Races events, Shetland’s MSP and Scottish Liberal Democrat Beatrice Wishart has said she looks forward to the return of the Tall Ships Races to Lerwick this week.

All participating ships must arrive in Lerwick by noon on Wednesday 26^th July, beginning a programme of public events that run until Saturday 29^th July when the fleet departs for the final leg of the race.

The Tall Ships Races are an annual race series arranged by Sail Training International, which provide opportunities for thousands of young sail trainees every year. The race began in Den Helder in the Netherlands on 29^th June and will finish in Arendal in Norway on 6^th August. Lerwick is Scotland’s only host port for the 2023 races, having twice previously hosted the Tall Ships Races in 1999 and 2011, and is the arrival port for the Cruise in Company leg from Fredrikstad, with guest ports Cullivoe and Baltasound.

Ms Wishart said:

“I welcome the ships’ crews, trainees and visitors and hope they enjoy their time here experiencing Shetland hospitality. I know how much I am looking forward to the next few days.

“Shetland is pulling out all the stops to make this a tremendous event, one of shared culture and friendships that will live long in memories.

“From performances by musicians and singers to children’s activities, there are many exciting ways for people of all ages to get involved.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

More information about Lerwick’s hosting of the Tall Ships Races, and the full programme of events, can be found here: Tall Ships Races Lerwick 2023 | Scotland’s Only 2023 Host Port (tallshipslerwick.com)