Fine 20th-century stained-glass windows now depict scenes from World War 2 and from RGC’s own history. The oak stalls of the 1870s are dedicated as memorials to the nation’s most famous sailors and soldiers, beginning with Horatio Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.
A poignant service was held with the evocative I am a Poor Wayfaring Stranger opening, sung by Simon Long accompanied by the Fine Voice chorus, an explanatory speech by Gareth Lewis (PP), the service/blessing held by Archdeacon Canon Bob White, national anthem, finishing with the choir (I Vow to Thee Thy Country) then a beautiful lament (Amazing Grace) by the Hampshire Caledonian Pipe Band and Pipe Major, Rich Smith.
Guests included Nigel Atkinson (the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire), current and previous mayors, current and previous councillors, Leader of the Council (Steve Pitt) and other dignitaries.
There was also a fascinating talk by Neil Bond (Western Front Association) on Rev Tubby Clayton CH MC FSA, an Army Chaplain in World War 1 and his links with Portsmouth, Toc H andPoperinge in Belgium.
Visitors were treated to displays about the blitz and PP/EH plus others (eg Voluntary Outreach Services and Keith Malcolm, Lead Nurse Veterans at QA Hospital) plus further singing of wartime songs by Fine Voice and further music from the pipe band.
Jo Forbes (EH) and Chris Pennycook (PP) both commented that “Whilst the weekend had taken a while to organise we were both delighted with the response we had from the public.The Service exceeded our expectations along with the whole weekend. A period of reflection of a time we cannot begin to imagine. A fitting way to commemorate the 85th Anniversary of the Portsmouth Blitz at the beginning of Portsmouth 100. We would like to take this opportunity in thanking all our volunteers who helped make the Commemorative Event a resounding success”.
Further details can be found: Pompey Pals ( www.facebook.com/PompeyPalsProject/?locale=en_GB), English Heritage ( www.english-heritage.org.uk), Fine Voice choir ( www.finevoice.co.uk) and Hampshire Caledonian Pipe Band (hcpb.co.uk).
A fitting, respectful, thought provoking afternoon.
