A series of events across Lichfield are set to mark the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic.
Events taking place include a ‘First Class’ dinner at Swinfen Hall Hotel and a ‘Third Class’ evening of song and dance and Nether Stowe School.
Mary Hutchinson, of the Lichfield Titanic Commemoration Group, explained: “On April 14 1912, RMS Titanic struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic. The ship sank in the early hours of April 15, killing an estimated 1,500 people. The captain, Commander Edward John Smith, perished that night as he stayed with his ship.
“Lichfield is the proud home of a statue of Captain Smith, and we are working with Lichfield District Council, Lichfield City Council and local groups to mark the 100th year of the sinking of the Titanic this April.”
There will also be a radio event in Beacon Park and a distress flare release signifying the flares set off from the Titanic on the fateful night.
A commemorative service will be held at the statue of Captain Smith in Beacon Park’s Museum Gardens at 2pm on April 15. The service will feature music from the era, poetry readings, wreath laying and prayers. At the end of the service, eight bells will be sounded at Lichfield Cathedral to signify the end of a watch at sea. The service is open to all and is free to attend.
Councillor Louise Flowith, cabinet member for tourism at Lichfield District Council, said: “A wide range of events – from film and dramatic performances, to fine dining evenings – will take place across the district.
“We hope lots of people will get involved and help to mark this tragic and significant date in our history. Go to www.visitlichfield.co.uk/titanic to find out more about how to book your tickets.”
