The ancient tradition of Stepping the Mast involves placing a coin for good luck under the mast of a new or refurbished ship. A similar practice was carried out this week in the seaside town of Weymouth, England.
-Editor
A SILVER coin with special significance has been placed under a new memorial in Weymouth dedicated to Merchant Navy sailors who lost their lives at sea.
The memorial on The Esplanade opposite the Pier Bandstand is all ready for its grand unveiling by the Weymouth, Portland and District branch of the Merchant Navy Association on Wednesday (Nov 9) at 11am.
Before the memorial was hoisted into position on its plinth a silver coin that had been minted from the bullion cargo of a sunken World War Two merchant ships was placed underneath it.
The memorial has been carved on Portland, using Portland Stone, and the bronze fittings have been moulded in Bridport, with the railings made in Weymouth.
Captain Paul Compton, of the Merchant Navy Association has previously spoken of how the memorial will be a welcome addition to the town and thanked all those who supported the fundraising effort to enable it to become a reality.
He said: “Weymouth and Portland has a very long maritime history and it is only fitting that we honour the brave men and women who lost their lives at sea while serving their country and their communities.
To read the complete article, see:
Special coin placed under memorial to sailors lost at sea
(www.dorsetecho.co.uk/news/14847213.Special_coin_ placed_under_memorial_to_sailors_lost_at_sea/#)
Wayne Homren, Editor
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