3rd January 2018 marked the 75th Anniversary of the World War 2 Bombing Raid on Shanklin that resulted in the loss of 23 Fire Personnel and Residents, as well as the destruction of several buildings and homes.
Now, a special commemorative church service will be held at St Pauls Church in Regent Street, dedicated to all 45 residents and fire personnel that died in Shanklin during the conflict.
At around 17:00 on Sunday 3rd January 1943 a flight of Focke Wolf 190’s bombed and destroyed the Sacred Heart Church in Atherley Road while the service was in progress, the Gloster Hotel and Davies Garage was also bombed, with the Fire Personnel and local residents being among the fatalities.
There were subsequent raids on St Paul’s Church and the Congregational Church in the High Street, as well as at other locations; and plans are in place to mark these tragic events with the Church service, as well as other commemorative projects over the coming weeks.
Rev Mark Williams of St Pauls Church Shanklin said:
“We felt it was important to highlight the sacrifices made in the Town during the Second World War, and it was fitting that St Paul’s Church, whose Vicar Rev Irons was killed in one of the raids, hosted the commemorative service”.
Richard Priest, who is helping co-ordinate events, added:
”Many friends and family of those that died in the Second World War, in Shanklin, have contacted us about the possibility of a special service, as well as other commemorative activities”.
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The Commemorative Service will be held at St Paul’s Church, Regent Street, Shanklin on Sunday 11th February 2018 at 10:30 and will be attended by the Bishop of Portsmouth, as well as the Island’s Lord Lieutenant.
Rev Williams concluded:
”Many current members of the congregation remember the events of the War, and we hope that the service, as well as the other events, are a fitting tribute to all those that made the ultimate sacrifice”.
