Remembering the Princess Victoria

The memorial at Chaine Memorial Road will once again be the venue for the service, starting at 11am. The event is organised by the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes in association with Larne Borough Council.

Members of the public are invited to attend the short service to remember those who lost their lives in this disaster as well as to show respect for the bravery of all those involved in the rescue operation. The public are welcome to return to Larne Leisure Centre for light refreshments following the commemoration service.

The Princess Victoria was built in 1947 and was one of the first roll-on, roll-off designed ferries. The ferry made daily return crossings from the port of Larne to Stranraer.

On January 31 1953, the Princess Victoria set sail from Stranraer with 177 people on board. The ship was caught up in severe weather, which was part of the great storm of 1953. The heavy seas led to the stern gates of the car deck being forced open and within four hours the Princess Victoria eventually sank.

Despite valiant rescue efforts only 41 men survived. The disaster claimed the lives of 133 passengers and crew members. Of the victims, 27 were from Larne and these included women and children.

For further information on the commemoration service please contact Larne Tourist Information centre on 028 2826 0088.