Thousands of visitors and competitors arrive in Orkney for 20th International Island Games

People from around the world have been arriving in Orkney for the 20th International Island Games.

Twenty four islands will compete in 12 events over the next week, with competitors from the likes of Menorca, Bermuda, the Falklands and Greenland joining the home team to compete for the title.

Around 2,500 visitors have been arriving in Orkney from all over the world by plane and by boat for the Games, which will be officially opened by Lorraine Kelly on Saturday.

Lorraine told STV News: “It’s just going to be brilliant, there’s going to be representatives from all over the world. It’s just going to be a massive celebration, we’re so looking forward to it and it is going to be amazing.”

Meanwhile, thousands of athletes are touching down, ready to compete in the internationally renowned island games.

The island games will be taking place in Orkney STV News

Isle of Man team manager Jill Gillings said: “It’s brilliant. I think it’s grown from strength to strength as the Island Games. And it’s a wonderful thing to be involved in.

“The athletes are all really excited about being here and really ready to compete. So that’s the main thing. I think we have a really relaxed atmosphere with that, and I think we tend to try and look after one another, which is sort of in keeping with the islands.”

It’s been 20 years since the island games were last held in Scotland, and for the very first time, the iconic event is here in Orkney.

Organisers say it’s one of the largest multi-sporting events in Europe this year.

Gordon Deans, chair of Orkney 2025 said: “We wanted to host for years so getting that opportunity is fantastic. It’s a fantastic opportunity for Orkney.

“You’ll see and feel the buzz about the place as you go around.

“The whole community is getting behind this. And so they should. It is the biggest event we have ever held in Orkney.”