CalMac helps deliver King’s Baton in dramatic mid-sea handover

Batonbearer and champion cyclist Kerry Macphee, from South Uist, had originally carried the baton aboard MV Loch Seaforth at Ullapool before the vessel made its way to Stornoway.

As the ferry crossed the Minch, the baton’s journey took to the skies when an HM Coastguard helicopter intercepted the vessel and winched a coastguard rescue specialist onto the deck.

In a symbolic handover, CalMac Leading Hand Connor Macdonald presented the baton to winchman Ben Sneddon, who was then lifted back into the helicopter with the baton before it continued its journey to Lewis.

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The dramatic transfer showcased teamwork between CalMac and HM Coastguard while highlighting the importance of lifeline ferry services in connecting Scotland’s island communities.

The King’s Baton will feature at the opening of the HebCelt Festival in Stornoway today before continuing its tour of Lewis and Harris.

A CalMac spokeswoman said: "It was a real privilege to be part of such a special moment in the baton’s journey to the Outer Hebrides. Seeing the helicopter approach the vessel and watching the baton being handed over in the middle of the Minch was something we'll never forget."

The King’s Baton Relay is travelling through communities across Scotland as part of the countdown to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, celebrating the people, places and stories that make the nation unique.