A maritime tribute is on its way to Lerwick this May, as part of events marking the 80th Anniversary of the end of World War II. The Liberation Convoy – a flotilla of five historic vessels from Norway – will cross the North Sea to commemorate Victory in Europe Day, with public events planned throughout the week.
A Historic Journey
Weather permitting, the convoy will depart Bergen on Sunday 4th May, and is expected to arrive in Lerwick Harbour on Tuesday 6th May. Among the ships is M/K Andholmen, a fishing vessel featured on the Shetland Bus memorial in Scalloway – a poignant connection to Shetland’s wartime past.
The largest ship in the convoy is the 60-metre S/S Hestmanden, also known as the Norwegian War Sailor Museum. All visiting vessels will be open to the public from Wednesday 7th to Friday 9th May, daily between 11am and 5pm.
Commemorative Events
The week features several public commemorations and cultural events, including:
Wednesday 7th May, 6.30pm: A parade of crews and guests led by Lerwick Pipe Band from the harbour to Lerwick Town Hall, followed by a civic reception.
Thursday 8th May – VE Day:
11.00am: Memorial service at County War Memorial, Hillhead, with wreath-laying led by the Lord Lieutenant and Convener, accompanied by Lerwick Brass Band and the Norwegian Naval Band.
3.00pm: Memorial service at Shetland Bus Memorial, Scalloway.
7.30pm: Evening concert at St Columba’s Kirk, featuring the Norwegian Naval Band. Entry is free with donations welcome, supporting veterans’ charities.
Please note: There will be temporary road closures during the memorial events for safety.
A Chance to Connect with History
The public are warmly invited to visit the ships, meet the crews, and hear the incredible stories of wartime bravery – from the daring Shetland Bus missions to the efforts of Norwegian sailors who kept supplies moving across dangerous seas.
Final Departures
The convoy will begin to depart from Saturday 11th May, with some vessels continuing to other Shetland ports, including Scalloway and Baltasound. Ships remaining in Lerwick will stay open to visitors.
Lindsay Tulloch QPM, Lord Lieutenant of Shetland, said:
“This will be the first time since WWII that some of these vessels have crossed the North Sea. The convoy will be an impressive sight, and I hope the public will come along to visit, meet the crews, and take part in commemorations marking VE Day.”
Ragnhild Bie, Project Manager for S/S Hestmanden, added:
“We’re honoured to share stories of the Shetland Bus and the brave war sailors of Norway. Our bond with Shetland is strong, and we look forward to this meaningful visit.”
Find out more about the convoy and the vessels at www.liberationconvoy.com