We are excited to present a beautiful wall hanging created by the talented members of the Anchor Group, based in the Orkney town of Stromness. This remarkable piece reflects the creativity and craftsmanship that thrives within our community, and we are pleased to showcase it in the cinema alongside ‘Vera’s Story’- the inspiration for the artwork.’

During the First and Second World Wars, Orkney was an important strategically placed group of islands. Many stories about the Second World War were passed down through families as memories. This is Vera’s story, recorded when she was 94 in 2026.

‘I was a young girl when war was declared against Germany in September 1939. I remember that Scapa Flow once again became an active base for the British Royal Navy. I saw lots of ships coming into Orkney’s harbours. There were battleships, aircraft carriers and destroyers. Some of the names of them were HMS Hood, Renown, Ark Royal and the Royal Oak.

I remember seeing huge barrage balloons flying above the ships to hinder German planes. Once, one came down, and all the islanders were excited. Our houses had to be blacked out with blinds, anything you could use, so no light was showing. Some parachute silk had been found and I managed to get a piece, which we’ve used in this wall hanging.

The towns and villages were full of people and camps were being built to house all the troops stationed on the islands. There were lots of army lorries and motorbikes on the roads. I had never seen so many vehicles.

I remember overhearing people talking about the boom defences, this was something new to me. They were to be out between the Head of Houton and Hoy to prevent enemy ships from entering Scapa Flow. On the 14^th October 1939, a German U-boat did manage to find its way into Scapa Flow between two islands and torpedoed one of the ships. HMS Royal Oak which was lying at anchor near the coast of Holm. Over 800 lives were lost, including one Orcadian. The townsfolk were very upset. A nearby fishing vessel, Daisy II, spent many hours rescuing men from the water.

I remember it being exciting and dangerous times.’

Many thanks to the following members of The Anchor Group who created the wall hanging:

• Ann Linklater
• Vera Sclater
• Lisa Pettet
• Karen Kennedy
• Lena Harvey
• Vanda Taylor
• Susan O’Brien
• Pearl Sinclair
• Jaqueline Johnston
• Margaret Hourston
• Vivienne McLeod
• Brian Galloway
• Maggie Thomson
• Alison MacEvie
• Janet Moodie
• Iris Adam
• Sarah Johnson
• Karen Drever

The Anchor Group meets every Wednesday from 1.00 to 4.00pm at The Stromness Library, Victoria Street, Stromness, Orkney. Whether you are a seasoned artist or just looking to explore your creative side, you are welcome to join the group. Come and be a part of our creative journey! See their Facebook page for details.