Centenary event to show gratitude to seafarers

 

Maritime charity Seafarers UK is holding a  centenary event to reflect a debt of gratitude owed to generations of seafarers

In 2017 it  will mark its 100th year by holding a special Centenary Celebration Dinner on 23 February at the Merseyside Maritime Museum, sponsored by Peel Ports Group.

Seafarers UK aims to highlight the debt of gratitude owed to generations of seafarers, by reflecting upon the sacrifices of the past and those still serving, as well as supporting people training to be the seafarers of the future.

All funds raised on the night will be in support of a new accommodation and care wing being built at Mariners’ Park in Wallasey for elderly or retired ex-seafarers and veterans from the Merchant Navy and Royal Navy.

Commodore Barry Bryant CVO RN, Director General of Seafarers UK, said: “Seafarers UK was established as King George’s Fund for Sailors during the First World War, at a time when so many seafarers were being injured or lost at sea. Since 1917 we have helped seafarers and their families in desperate need, across the Merchant Navy, Fishing Fleets and Royal Navy.

“I remember the huge support we got from Liverpool and Merseyside in 2003 and 2013 as we commemorated the Battle of the Atlantic, and we are now calling on companies and individuals to support us, and the Mariners’ Park project, by getting involved in this historic event.”

The evening will include a drinks reception, splendid three-course dinner, music from Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Band Scotland and an auction. Lord Prescott, an ex-seafarer himself and patron of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, will give an after-dinner speech and the Lord Mayor of Liverpool will be in attendance. Tickets cost £150 (or £1,500 for a table for ten).

Picture: RMS Lusitania sinking by Harley Crossley

Liverpool Waterfront