WATCH: Selkirk mill reveals role in 20th International Island Games in Orkney
Last updated 12th Jul 2025
More than 1,600 athletes from around the world are converging on Orkney from the 20th International Island Games.
Over the next seven days, they'll compete in 12 sports - from archery to athletics, and badminton to bowls.
Lochcarron of Scotland has created a special tartan for the event at its mill in Selkirk, in collaboration with Aurora Jewellery and Beccy May, Vice Chair of Orkney 2025.
Inspiration for the design - which celebrates Orkney’s unique heritage - was taken from the vibrant colours in the Games logo, and "pays tribute to the landscapes, culture, and community spirit that define the islands".
The striking design, produced in lambswool, has been made into wraps, scarves and ties along with a variety of accessories, available for visitors and competitors to purchase as a memento.
WATCH: Behind the scenes in Selkirk at the making of the Island Games tartan...
Beccy said: "Being involved in creating the tartan for the Orkney 2025 International Island Games was a real honour.
"I wanted every thread and colour to reflect the spirit of the islands - the blues of the surrounding seas, the greens of our windswept landscapes, and the vibrant reds and golds symbolising community, heritage, and celebration.
"This tartan represents the connection across all of the island communities involved in the Games coming together through sport."
Business Minister Richard Lochhead officially launched the new design on a visit to the Scottish Borders last month.
He said: “The Orkney Island Games represent a significant opportunity to drive economic growth and build a lasting legacy for people and businesses in Orkney and beyond.
“They also provide a taste of what is to come and illustrate our wider ambition to make sure every corner of Scotland benefits from the prestigious events we are increasingly able to attract.
“This is a team effort and the benefits go way beyond the events themselves. The global platform they provide enables us to highlight Scotland to tourists, businesses and potential inward investors across the world.”
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The Games is the largest event ever hosted in Orkney and the first time the islands have hosted it.
It gets underway today (July 12th) with an Opening Ceremony and Athletes’ Parade in Kirkwall.
Some of the highlights throughout the week include the triathlon in Stromness, and cycling road races through the West Mainland.
Those unable to travel to Orkney to experience the Games first hand will be able to follow the action on the Orkney 2025 dedicated youtube streaming channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Orkney2025
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news