Dog owners in Montrose are being encouraged to join in the 70th anniversary commemorations of the death of World War Two sea dog Bamse.
Montrose Heritage Trust has announced the events that will mark the anniversary of the death and burial in the town of the famous dog.
Every 10 years since the war, the Norwegian Navy has sent a ship to Montrose to pay respects at the grave of their heroic wartime mascot.
In July, the 207 foot Royal Norwegian Coast Guard Vessel Aalesund will make the visit, forming a backdrop in the harbour for a number of events.
Arriving on Saturday, July 19, the ship will be open to the public on the afternoon of Sunday, July 20.
On the morning of July 21, the ship’s company will be joined by Sea Cadets from Stonehaven, Dundee and Arbroath and by the Pipe Band of Lathallan School, Johnshaven.
Assembling on the North Quay the parade will march along Wharf Street to the iconic Bamse statue, unveiled by His Royal Highness Prince Andrew in 2006.
Visitors and relatives of veterans from all over Britain, Norway and as far as Canada will be assembled by the statue in the company of the Lord-Lieutenant of Angus, Mrs Georgiana Osborne, The Provost of Angus, Mrs Helen Oswald, honorary consuls from Norway, officers of the Norwegian and British Navies and other guests.
It will be an event open to the public, who are encouraged to attend with their dogs.
There will be a formal commemoration part of the event, remembering the war years, the contribution made by Bamse and the enduring friendship forged between Scotland and Norway.
This will be followed by an informal celebration, with a song specially written and performed by local singer Gary Anderson, dancing by the Gordon School of Dancing, music by the Lathallan Pipe Band and a parade of St Bernard dogs from all over Scotland.
Dr Andrew Orr, chairman of Montrose Heritage Trust, said: “The presence of the great St Bernard dog Bamse with the Norwegian Navy at Dundee and Montrose in World War Two has left an enduring reminder of the Norwegian contribution to the Allies, and of Scottish – Norwegian friendship.
“It is remarkable and wonderful that we are able to mark this 70 years after his death. July 21 promises to be a big day for Montrose, for Dundee, for Angus and for Scotland. We will give the ship Aalesund and its crew a very warm welcome.
“Montrose Heritage Trust is pleased to be working with Montrose Port Authority to lay on these events, and we hope that others in our community, individuals and businesses, will lend support financially and practically.”