We were up in Shetland on Thurs 12/8/10 on the last night of a very special family holiday there (my older sister lives there and travel costs limit the times we can all gather at hers). After a lovely evening together with food, wine and singing we stood outside under clear skies and watched for about 45 mins.

Never in all my life have I seen such a display of bright, trailing shooting stars; it was largely due to the lack of light pollution in the northern Isles, plus a nearly new moon and very little cloud.

Being with the people I love most, watching this awe-inspiring display will stay with me for ever!