Stella Manson named Swan Trust Sail Trainee of the Year 2025

The Vevoe Trophy was established in 2011 and is awarded every year to a trainee, or young volunteer aged 15-25, who, in the opinion of the Swan crew, has shown an outstanding dedication to sail training and teamwork.

Stella, from Sullom, was selected by the crew for her positive attitude, teamwork and excellent attitude. From as soon as she stepped on board, Stella was the first to volunteer for any job, even when nobody else wanted to. She was also often found quietly lending a hand in the background without needing to be asked.

Stella’s spirits spread through Swan, bringing positive energy to the group, even at points of low morale. She was always first to take the helm when needed, and looked after watch mates when they were feeling seasick.

Melanie Henderson, Sail Training Shetland Chair, said: “A massive congratulations to Stella from all of us at Sail Training Shetland. Her can do spirit inspired her fellow crewmates and enabled her to get the most out of her trainee experience. We wish her all the very best for the future.”

The trophy was commissioned by the Trust following a donation by the late Willie Simpson, crew member aboard Swan from 1954-56 and during the return of the boat to Lerwick in 1991. Willie o‘Vevoe, as he was known, was part of the Simpson family who skippered and crewed Swan between 1905 and 1956. The family are still involved with Swan today as John Willum, son of Willie, is a Trustee and presented the trophy to Stella.

Swan Trust Chair, Mary Irvine, said “We are always delighted and heartened to see young people taking an active interest in sailing and Shetland’s maritime heritage, and Stella’s attitude and commitment is commendable and thoroughly deserving of this trophy.”

The trophy is a replica of the original ship’s wheel made by the late Lowrie Robertson of Unst, with assistance from Maurice Manson and Ian Smith of Lerwick, and Peter Moaut of Unst. The original trophy is kept on display at UHI Shetland’s Scalloway campus, while a cold bronze casting of the Swan under sail made by Terry Atkinson of Tingwall is presented to the trainee to keep.