Annual Mary Rose memorial service pays tribute to lost crew

Ahead of the anniversary of the sinking of the Mary Rose – the Trust gathered at Portsmouth Cathedral on July 13th to honour those who lost their lives in the sinking.

The Trust was joined by Sea Cadets from TS Mary Rose, and a wreath was laid by CEO Dominic Jones on the grave of the member of the ship’s company in the Cathedral. Visits were made to the wreck site to allow staff and volunteers to pay their respects and reflect on the anniversary, with thanks to the Gosport Ferry Company.

Henry VIII’s flagship was defending England against the French in the Battle of the Solent when a manoeuvre to fire guns from its other side ended in its sinking on 19^th July 1545. About 500 men drowned, and only 35 survived.

Dominic Jones, Mary Rose Trust CEO, said: “Every year we remember the hundreds of men that were lost when the Mary Rose sank.

“We are proud to honour them and to be able to share their story in our award-winning Museum, which is dedicated to their memory. We also honour the names of those that have been involved with the Mary Rose Trust and have passed away in the last 12 months – from volunteers, staff, divers to donors it is a chance to commemorate their lives as well.

“The ongoing work and commitment to preserve this incredible piece of history and its journey has never been more important, and we are excited to keep sharing this story as it continues to evolve and the lives of its crew for future generations.”

Readings were delivered by Chairman Nigel Purse and Director of Sales & Marketing Pippa Bostock, while prayers were led by the Cadets for the ship’s crew and people connected with Trust who had passed away during the past year.

The Trust extends its gratitude to Portsmouth Cathedral for hosting the service, to the Sea Cadets from TS Mary Rose, and to all those who attended.