IT’S 400 miles from Innerwick to Shetland but that has not stopped the county village from getting into the Up Helly Aa spirit.

The festival, held annually to mark the end of the Yule season, takes place on Shetland and refers to any of a variety of fire festivals.

Youngsters from Innerwick Primary School did their bit to create their very own, smaller, version of the famous celebrations.

More than 170 pupils, family members and residents took part in the fun last Tuesday evening.

Miss Lumsden, the P1/2/3 teacher, told the Courier: “It was a tremendous display of community spirit.”

The crowd proudly paraded around the village led by a horn blower, a piper, a stunningly created Viking longboat. . . and a police escort!

The atmosphere was magical, with lanterns glowing brightly through the darkness, and the children showing off colourfully-patterned shields, horned helmets and shiny brooches.

The local community came to their doors to wave as the parade passed.

Then, the pupils burnt the small, hand-held boats they had made in a bright glow of blazing flames in the school grounds.

Scotch broth warmed everyone up whilst the fiddle played and children sang traditional songs around the fire.

Finally, the moment arrived when the large Viking boat they had made went up in flames to a loud cheer. Entertainment included singing, gymnastics, jokes and dancing.

The rain held off till the end of the night as everyone said farewell... with promises of an even grander celebration next year!

- Pictures by Robin Tolladay