Mandela tribute

WITH Nelson Mandela’s death touching hundreds of millions of people across the world, Shetland Islands Council is to open a book of condolences for people to pay their respects to the great statesman, who died peacefully at home on Thursday, aged 95.

The tribute book, to be located inside the main door at Lerwick Town Hall, will be available to the public from Monday to Friday next week during office hours.

SIC convener Malcolm Bell said: “Nelson Mandela was unqiue; a leader whose impact was felt not just in his own land but across boundaries both political and physical.

“”It is hard to comprehend that within my own lifetime this colossus went from being a prisoner to president of his country. His grim determination, dignity and good manners, whilst faced with apparently insurmountable odds, is a lesson for us all.”

He added: “The opening of a book of condolence is an appropriate way to allow Shetlanders to record their thoughts and appreciation of his life. This is particularly apt given our links with South Africa through projects like the Global Classroom.”