2024 Vevoe Trophy Winner

Since 2011, The Swan Trust SCIO has awarded the Vevoe Trophy to their Sail Trainee of the year. Commissioned by the Trust following a donation from the family of the late Willie Simpson, The Vevoe Trophy is named after the home of the Simpson family, Vevoe in Whalsay. Willie o’Vevoe, as he was known, first went to the herring fishing in the early 1950s aboard the Swan, a vessel his family were closely involved with for over 50 years of her herring fishing career.

A replica of Swan’s original wheel, the trophy was made by the late Lowrie Robertson of Unst, with assistance on intri¬cate details from Maurice Manson and Ian Smith of Lerwick and Peter Mouat of Unst.

The award is usually presented at the Trust’s end of year gathering, along with a cold bronze casting of the Swan under sail, made by Terry Atkinson, Tingwall, which the Trainee keeps.

The award is given to the trainee, or young volunteer aged 15-25, who, in the opinion of the Skipper and Mate, has shown an outstanding dedication to sail training and teamwork during the season.

In recommending David, Swan First Mate, Scott Sandison said “David’s first long trip on the Swan was part of Tall Ships as a trainee and although he was one of the younger of the group that didn’t matter and he was involved with everything on board and learning fast.

“Over the next few seasons David has volunteered to help with the maintenance arriving every morning keen to find out what the day’s work will be. He has become a trusted volunteer crewmate and a joy to have aboard.”

Other crew and volunteers commented that David is hardworking and enthusiastic. He is first in line for jobs on board and a sociable and engaging crewmate, with an old head on young shoulders.

David’s Mum, Liane Nicolson, said that working with Swan has really boosted his confidence.

During this summer David has been encouraged from members of the Delting boating club to compete in some sailing races which he has really enjoyed and has gained valuable experience from - already looking forward to more sailing next summer.

In 2022 David sailed from Harlingen on the Tall Ships Cruise in Company, and then on to Lowestoft with Swan. He was also on board for the Herring Trail trip to Anstruther in 2023.

David said “I really enjoy being part of the Swan crew - everyone is so encouraging of people. When volunteering on maintenance days, I would often stay late to get a job finished and other members would support me with a lift up to Brae or further home to Eshaness.”

Swan Trust Chair, Mary Irvine, said “We are delighted to be able to award the Vevoe Trophy to David this year. His dedication to sailing, volunteering and working in a team with our other volunteers and crew make him a perfect candidate for this award and Trustees would like to thank him for his ongoing help and support of the Swan.”