On a day of changeable weather, Saturday 19th of October,  around 15 people gathered to celebrate the inauguration of the final section of the St Magnus Way.

The theme for the section from the Orkneyinga Centre, Orphir to St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall is on ‘Hospitality’.

Stuart Little welcomed all those who had come for the inauguration and the two speakers: Kathryn Sclater representing the Orphir community and Andy Fraser.

Kathryn Sclater and Andy Fraser

Kathryn spoke of the importance of Hospitality and how fitting it was that it was in Orphir, famed for its home baking, that the starting point for this section was at the Orkneyinga Centre where once stood a Norse drinking hall.Kathryn then unveiled the information board designed by Iain Ashman.

The Waymarker Stone by Frances Pelly

Andy Fraser’s talk ranged over the story of St Magnus and forgiveness. He also spoke of the personal importance of St Magnus and the development of the pilgrimage way. He unveiled the Waymarker stone by Frances Pelly.

Here is a 13 minute video of some of the inauguration event

If you are interested in walking some or all of the St Magnus Way there is a website and an App. Discrete markers keep walkers on the right path. The St Magnus Way Trustees are very grateful to LEADER and Orphir Community Council for their contributions towards the funding of the interpretation board and waymarker stone.

Click here for information: St Magnus Way

Reporter: Fiona Grahame