Sidney and squad celebrate as Scalloway festival returns in style

9 January 2026 17:38

A person dressed as a Viking with a helmet and armor shouts during a reenactment event, surrounded by others in similar costumes.

Bryan McCaffrey starting the day as he means to go on. Photo: Malcolm Younger

IT HAS been a busy day for the Scalloway Jarl Squad and its Guizer Jarl Sidney Nicolson, who have kicked off the fire festival in fine style today (Friday).

The squad have visited schools and care homes this afternoon, and are now preparing for this evening’s fiery procession – where they will see off their bright pink galley, Snert, in a blaze of flames later.

Thanks to Malcolm Younger for this great selection of photos from throughout the day.

You can read more about the jarl and his big day, and watch videos from this morning’s action, here.

A person in Viking costume stands with a wooden dragon head, holding a decorated axe and shield, against a gray sky.

Guizer Jarl Sidney Nicolson at the head of his galley. Photo: Malcolm Younger

A young person in Viking-style costume stands beside a black and gold banner with a knotwork design, with others in similar attire in the background.

Banner carrier Iona Hatladal. Photo: Malcolm Younger

A large group of people in matching Viking costumes with black and yellow shields pose outdoors by the water, with snowy hills in the background.

The Scalloway Jarl Squad aboard galley Snert. Photo: Malcolm Younger

A young child dressed in medieval armor and helmet holds a spear while looking directly at the camera.

Two-year-old Ivar McCaffrey. Photo: Malcolm Younger

A group of children sit and stand in a school gym, some wearing paper hats and holding colorful crafts, during a school event or performance.

Children at Tingwall school greet the Jarl Squad. Photo: Malcolm Younger

A woman and a man in medieval armor pose indoors; she holds a circular patch while he holds a shield and helmet.

Walter and Gray manager Sue Anderson accepts a plaque from Scalloway jarl Sidney Nicolson. Photo: Malcolm Younger

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