Homecoming

THREE long running Shetland festivals have been included in the programme of next’s years Homecoming Scotland celebrations.

Shetland Fiddle Frenzy, Shetland Nature Festival and Shetland Wool Week are among around 100 events announced as part of the celebrations by first minister Alex Salmond on Wednesday.

Hundreds more events are expected to be announced over the coming weeks.

The celebration of Scottish culture will be dominated by the Ryder Cup, the Commonwealth Games, Europe’s biggest brass band festival and a re-enactment of the Battle of Bannockburn.

VisitScotland island manager in Shetland Steve Mathieson, said: “Next year’s Homecoming will position Shetland as dynamic and creative with a rich history and culture.

“The exceptional events unveiled today will celebrate so much that is great about Shetland and will ensure that the world will receive the most spectacular of welcomes in 2014.”