Hundreds of people lined the dock at Victoria Pier to welcome Santa ashore as he arrived courtesy of the Lerwick Lifeboat. He joined the fleet of festive trikes and trailers arranged by the Moar family and Peerie Foxes nursery along with Lerwick Jarl Squad, Bigton Samba Band, Lerwick Brass Band, Shetland Ponies, Elves, and Olaf!
Commercial Street was packed with people of all ages eager to catch a glimpse of the man in red, with his entourage providing additional excitement and fun.
As the procession made its way along da Street, the Christmas lights were switched on, with the Market Cross lights and trees coming on as a finale after the Lerwick Jarl Squad and Brass Band gave a rendition of Jingle Bells.
Living Lerwick Project Manager, Emma Miller said “there was a great festive atmosphere in Lerwick, and it was brilliant to see everyone enjoying themselves. It’s a great way to bring the community together and celebrate the festive season. The community continue to support businesses on the street and the parade is their way of thanking everyone.
“We also have a list of people to thank who have helped the parade happen – this is a massive effort by so many people, and it couldn’t happen without every one of them giving their time and effort.
The crew and volunteers of the Lerwick Lifeboat station; Lerwick Port Authority staff; the Moar family and Peerie Foxes; Jarl Liam Summers and his squad; Lerwick Brass Band; Bigton Samba Band; Brygarth Pony Stud and handlers Eilith Gunn and Caitlyn Bennet; Olaf and Maunsie; Shetland Coastguard Service, SIC Roads Service, volunteer traffic steward; Bixter Garage; Derek from Active Audio, John Coutts and, of course – Santa!”
Other Christmas activities will continue through December including the Elf Hunt and Christmas window competition. The bumper Spend at da Street draw winners will be announced on Wednesday 21st – 12 lucky shoppers will receive prizes worth up to £175 each for choosing to buy local this Christmas. Details on the Living Lerwick website.
