By Isle of Wight Observer
The Island’s Lord-Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon, and High Sheriff, Graham Biss, joined community groups from Sandown, to unveil the restored bell from HMS Sandown and an honour board, detailing service at Normandy in 1944, as well as at Dunkirk.
Sandown Town Council, working with the Sandown & District Historical Association, has installed an information panel alongside the bell and honour board, highlighting the history of the three HMS Sandowns, and will be linking to a film about them.
Mrs Sheldon said: “With the 80th Anniversary of D-Day approaching, it’s important that the Island community reflects on the contribution and sacrifices made, as part of the national commemoration.”
Mr Biss added: “The Island and Islanders played a significant part in World War II, including with the Pipeline Under The Ocean (PLUTO). The D-Day 80 display at Sandown highlights one part of that contribution.”
Several community groups have been involved in the D-Day 80 project, with Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat (SSIL) making the bell-rope or lanyard. Hydromar renovated the bell and honour board, and Sandown Green Town Volunteers arranging a remembrance rose to be planted.
