Jubilee beacon set to shine at Morven
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The event will take place on Monday, June 4, and is one of many which will mark the momentous occasion.
Around 4000 beacons are expected to be constructed around the UK, with many others at international locations. Her Majesty will light the beacon at the Tower of London.
However, unlike 10 years ago when the Queen celebrated her golden jubilee, she will not be visiting the Far North. That was confirmed by the Lord-Lieutenant of Caithness, Anne Dunnett, who said Her Majesty’s most northerly visit will be Perth.
“While we are very disappointed that there will not be a visit to Caithness, we fully sympathise that Her Majesty cannot visit every corner of Scotland,” said Miss Dunnett.
However, Caithness will be represented at a special service of thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral in London which has been organised as part of the jubilee celebrations.
Miss Dunnett will be representing the county at the event which is being held on Tuesday, June 5.
“I am looking forward to this service. The Queen is a wonderful example to us all and I have great respect for her.
“I am a great admirer of her, her work ethic and her strong loyalty to this country and the Commonwealth,” said Miss Dunnett.
Caithness will also be represented at another jubilee event when deputy lieutenant Willie Watt takes part in a pageant on the River Thames on June 2.
“It is a privilege and an honour to be part of such a prestigious and historic event,” said Mr Watt, the chairman of Wick Harbour Authority, who has had a long interest in the sea and boats.
The vessel Mr Watt will be on is the NB Barrogill which is owned by Paul Garfield, who lived in Castletown with his wife Helen for many years before moving south.
The couple took over Clifton Cruises in 2005 and were thrilled to be selected to take part in the pageant.
“We would like our boat to represent the county of Caithness and are delighted that Mr Watt will be aboard for the event,” said Mr Garfield.
Miss Dunnett said the arrangements for the Morven beacon have been made by businessman Jock Campbell in conjunction with Welbeck Estates at Berriedale.
The estate is also planning to plant 60 acres of trees to commemorate the diamond jubilee.
The lord-lieutenant “supports fully” the Wick Diamond Jubilee HarbourFest which is being held on June 15-17.
“We will support it and any other local events as far as possible,” added the lord-lieutenant.
It is understood youth organisations such as the Scouts, Guides and Army Cadets may organise their own beacons or bonfires.
Some street parties may also be taking place to mark the jubilee.
