Princess Royal to visit Lerwick for Tall Ships

PRINCESS Anne is planning to visit Lerwick later this month to experience the Tall Ships Races.

Her Royal Highness, who will be accompanied by Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence will attend the Captains’ Dinner on Thursday 27 July, before visiting some of the event sites and meeting sponsors, crew members and event organisers on the Friday.

Shetland Tall Ships Ltd chairman Malcolm Bell said: “It is exciting to confirm a Royal visit for the international Tall Ships Races’ visit to Lerwick.

“The event was already shaping up to be an important occasion for the whole of Shetland, and this news only adds to the significance.

“With dozens of tall ships berthed in the port, there is no better time to see Lerwick Harbour, and we are sure The Princess Royal will enjoy the spectacle.”

Lord Lieutenant Bobby Hunter added that the visit provided an opportunity for the princess to learn more about the event and the positive impact it will have on participants and the Shetland community.

“I am pleased that HRH The Princess Royal will be visiting Shetland to experience the Tall Ships Races 2023,” he said.

“HRH knows the many benefits that sail training can provide for young people and will hear first-hand from some of them during her time in Lerwick.

“As well as spending time aboard some of the visiting vessels, HRH will meet representatives of Sail Training International and the many local organisations and people involved in hosting this spectacular community event.”

The Princess Royal was last in Shetland in 2014 when she visited the isles twice during the summer to open the revamped Sumburgh Lighthouse visitor centre in June that year followed by the opening of the Shetland College extension in September.