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Tuesday, 30 January 2007, 23:00 GMT

In pictures: Up Helly Aa

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Up Helly Aa, Britain's biggest fire festival and torchlight procession, is held in Lerwick, Shetland, to celebrate the area's Norse heritage.

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Earlier, the start of the Viking fire festival was well received.

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The Jarl Squad marches through the streets of Lerwick for Up Helly Aa.

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This Viking long ship made a very impressive sight for spectators.

Jarl Squad

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All ages were clearly seen to be in full voice at the start of Up Helly Aa.

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Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael was hardly recognisable at the event.

Up Helly Aa

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After dark the Jarl Squad paraded through the town's streets to the burning site.

Up Helly Aa

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The festival sees around 900 costumed 'guizers' taking part.

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A Viking longship is dragged through the town, then at a designated point the torches are thrown into the ship and onlookers watch as it burns.

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Transport Minister and Shetland MSP Tavish Scott was all smiles at Up Helly Aa

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