5 January, 2007

THE PORT of Lerwick is to host two international yachting events in June, to coincide with Shetland's annual celebration of the sea - the Johnsmas Foy.

The coming season includes the 20th anniversary of the annual two-leg Shetland/Bergen Races, with crews in Lerwick from 21 to 24 June.

Competitors in a new event, described as the most challenging race in the North Sea, will be there at the same time.

Participants in the 1000 mile Doublehanded Race will head from Ijmuiden, in the Netherlands, for Norway to join in the Shetland-Bergen Races.

Meanwhile it has emerged that yachts participating in the North Sea Triangle race will not come to Lerwick this year, but will instead sail to Kirkwall, in Orkney.

Lerwick Port Authority deputy chief executive Sandra Laurenson said the races will add to the harbour's reputation as a port-of-call for European yacht crews.

"The combination of the harbour's improved facilities, Shetland's many attractions and the international events means that we're looking forward to another busy season which will add to the islands' reputation for welcoming yachts," Laurenson said.

Sailors will be able to indulge in the quayside "Flavour of Shetland" showcase from 21 to 24 June, which is part of the wider Johnsmas Foy Festival (15 to 24 June), with its mix of culture, music, crafts and food throughout the islands.

In 2006 more than 450 yachts visited Lerwick, with Norwegian crews leading Dutch, Swedish, Germans and 14 other nationalities to the port.

Lerwick Port Authority is promoting its facilities on the Orkney and Shetland stand at the Collins Stewart London Boat Show, which kicks off today (Friday).