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NORTHERN LIGHTHOUSE BOARD FAIR ISLE SOUTH LIGHTHOUSE Scotland's Last Manned Lighthouse Invitation to the Residents of Fair Isle - 31 March 1998 The 31 March 1998 is a most significant day for the. Northern Lighthouse Board, Lightkeepers and Fair Isle. As it is on this day that the Board completes its automation programme ending over thirty years of planning. design and installation of the most sophisticated equipment around our wild shores. Although this is a sinificant achievement the Board recognises that as a result of this process over 200 years of lightkeeping tradition will come to an end, and with it a way of life which has become unique to a dedicated group of men who have served the Board throughout generations. Fair Isle has already experienced the effects of automation: in 1981 the North light was automated and the Keepers and their families withdrawn. At the same time the status of the South light was changed to that of a "Rock" Station which also saw the departure. of families. For such a small community we appreciate the effect this can have on the social and economic aspects of island life.Therefore, we do not feel the 3 1 st is about celebrating the departure of the Keepers but should be seen as a celebration of the Lightkeeper and their unique way of life. With this in mind we wish to make it a day to be remembered for Keepers and their families both past and present.We, the Board, are honoured to have our Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, join us on Fair Isle to mark this momentous occasion.The Programme for the day The Princess Royal will arrive on Fair Isle around 1100 and will be given a brief tour of some of the Islands crafts. She will then proceed to the South Light to view the Station and have lunch before. the Official ceremony at 1430.The ceremony will take place in the Lighthouse courtyard but, as space is limited, this will be for invited guests only: the latter will include Community representatives. However, for those wishing to witness the event it should be possible to observe and hear proceedings from beyond the boundary wall. We would appreciate if vehicles could be parked at the Puffin to allow clear access to the Station. HRH The Princess Royal will depart Fair Isle around 1600.Due to the significance of this event there will be members of the Media present to record the occasion and other aspects of Fair Isle life.Invitation to the Residents of Fair Isle The Northern Lighthouse Board wishes to invite all of the Fair Isle Community to join them in toasting a fond farewell to the Lightkeepers on the evening of the 31st in the Village Hall at 1900. We hope the evening will signify the importance and high regard in which the Keepers are held, by the Board, the, maritime community and the people of Fair Isle, who we are sure will have experienced the humour and, at times, the sad moments with the Keepers throughout the 106 years on Fair Isle.Please accept this announcement as your invitation to attend. Thank You Finally, the Board wishes to thank the Fair Isle Community for the assistance and hospitality given to our Technicians and Contractors over the last year or so and in the preparations for the event on the 31st. Your helpfulness and cooperation in providing facilities, your time, suggestions and local knowledge has been invaluable and much appreciated. We are sure many friendships have been established over the years and hope the Board and the Fair Isle Community can continue a close alliance over the years to come.The Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses - In Salutem Omnium (For the Safety of All) |
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