The Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre in Burray has re-opened for the season.

This compact and exquisitely laid out local museum has everything you could possibly wish to find out about Orkney from its very formation and the rocks it emerged from right up to its role in two world wars in the 20th century.

The fossil collection has specimens from Orkney and from around the world. The collection is all down to the amazing work of Leslie Firth who first became curious with fossils he discovered locally at Cruaday Quarry. He then went on to develop a passion and knowledge leading to setting up the visitor centre so that others could share in what he had found.

And, of course, there are dinosaurs – their eggs, and their poo.

Upstairs is the Heritage Centre where many of the items owe their preservation to the collecting of the Firth family, but have also been added to over the years. The Archive room is an excellent place for all those wishing to trace their family connections with South Ronaldsay and Burray where you can browse through lots of records including the census data for the islands.

Burray, and Orkney’s strong links with the sea are ever present and there are two wonderful model ships on display.

There’s lots to see which reflect ordinary life in Orkney through the ages and how hard it could be for most islanders where you made things for yourself, but also things they took pride in when they could afford to buy something special.

There’s a fascinating collection of items from World War 1, including HMS Hampshire, The Battle of Jutland, the service of a local nurse; and World War 2: an air raid siren you can have a go at using.

Downstairs is the large floor map of Scapa Flow. Not to be missed and wonderful to explore.

Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre is a Charity. It is a wonderful resource for Orcadians and visitors. A visit is highly recommended for all ages.

Fiona Grahame

Burray Petition to The Admiralty: 100 Years Ago