Most of this footage was recorded by John Irvine, with some additional filming by his brother Derek. In John’s role as teacher at Forrester High School (Edinburgh) he took parties of school kids to Shetland every summer on outdoor education trips. This footage is mainly from the 1960 trip, with some clips of the 1959 and 1961 trips too. These clips are of a lifeboat being launched in Eid (Aith), with a brass band playing at the ceremony, and Regatta sports afterwards.


Film-maker: John Irvine

Donated by John, Derek and Isobel Irvine.


This is in fact film footage of the Naming Ceremony of the Aith RNLI Lifeboat 'John & Frances MacFarlane' (ON 956) in 1961. Good close up footage of the Lerwick Brass Band playing at the ceremony and the LB and Crew together with all the folks watching the occasion.

00:00:00Launch of new lifeboat in Eid (Aith) - crowd gathered on shore with lots of bunting strung up.
00:00:13Brass band and guests gathered for ceremony.
00:00:59Lifeboat being launched from pier.
00:01:23Pupils diving into water for swimming competition (they won!).
00:01:54Sailing boats in regatta race.
00:02:10Pupils in rowing boats.
Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more