Prosperity service will mark 50th anniversary of maritime disaster
A service will be held tomorrow to mark the 50th anniversary of the deaths of 18 people aboard the merchant ship Prosperity off Guernsey’s west coast.
The service, which will be led by the Dean of Guernsey the Very Reverend Tim Barker, will be based on the first memorial service that was held following the 1974 tragedy.
The names of the deceased are inscribed on the MV Prosperity Memorial on the mainland side of the Lihou causeway, where the service will be held tomorrow at 11am.
The ship was taking a cargo of 2,500 tonnes of timber from Finland to Greece when it was caught in high seas to the west of Les Hanois.
It is believed the majority of the crew abandoned ship a short time before it was washed up – in separate pieces – on La Conchee Reef near Perelle.
All but two of the bodies were subsequently retrieved.
Some were buried at Le Foulon, while others were returned to their families in Greece and Turkey.
Catherine Lenfesty and the Rev. Adrian Datta will read a psalm and prayers respectively, giving thanks to those who have served in the merchant navy, as well as the Royal Navy, fishing boats and other nautical activities.
Hymns including Praise My Soul the King of Heaven and Eternal Father Strong to Save will be led by the Salvation Army band, which will also play God Save The King.
Members of the public are welcome to attend and are asked to arrive in good time.
Those who are able to use outlying coastal car parks and walk to the site are asked to do so, to ensure easy access for those with restricted mobility.
