More commonly known as OctoberFest, this has become an established event and runs through the first few weeks of the month, covering the tatty-howkin’ school holidays.  It is a slightly informal version of our Spring Festival and has enabled us to add a little extra choice and variety to the autumn calendar.  Just a random selection of events included a Viking Walk to Oransay led by Andrew McMorrine, Jewellery Making for Kids with Morag Halligan, a Nature Walk with Jane Howard, a Beach Litter Clean with Kevin Byrne or a Cooking Demo with David Kinnear…. there were games, there was baking, there was cheese and wine – lots of things to do in an unpressured way.  Once again we must thank all those who participated, whether as leaders or followers, and especial thanks to the amazing Sarah Hobhouse who arranged and orchestrated this intricate timetable of events.
An unofficial part of the proceedings saw a large body of islanders attend the farewell party for Ivan and Irena, who have managed the hotel in recent years but will now be joining their daughter as she enters school in the UK .  A presentation on behalf of the entire community marked the esteem in which they are both held and the regret that we feel in losing them – they are both going to be missed, but we wish them every success in pastures new, and hope that they will be back often to renew old friendships.