Viking Invasion

Largs is famous for its Viking connections. The Pencil is its most famous monument, situated at the south end of the Prom, near to Largs Marina. The Pencil was built in 1912, to commemorate the Battle of Largs.

In July 1263 King Haco of Norway is said to have sailed from Bergen with 200 longboats. He was joined by the King of Man in the Hebrides with additional forces. From there they sailed down the coast of Scotland, raiding the mainland. Negotiations were underway, but this was used by the Scots to buy time to raise their forces. Then, in a storm, some of the Norse ships were beached at Largs and an armed engagement began. This caused Haco to land his main force in difficult circumstances on a rocky coast. It is believed the Scots took advantage of this, and did not allow Haco time to get his army battle ready. The arrival of Scottish reinforcements may finally have turned the tide of the action, forcing the Norse army to retreat. It is believed that the Norse army was then pursued with great slaughter, with most fleeing to their boats.

The Vikings may not have returned, but the severe weather conditions have, with icy winds from Scandinavia and eastern Europe. Forecasters said the Arctic conditions would remain into next week, with strong winds and temperatures dipping to minus 4C.

Just heard the Scottish women have won the Curling World Championship by beating Sweden 6-5 in Latvia. Congratulations to them.