Titanic commemoration service at Liverpool Cathedral

A commemoration service marking the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic is to be held at Liverpool Cathedral.

The service, on Sunday, 15 April 2012, from 7.30pm, is open to all and is the city’s major commemoration of the disaster.

It will both be an act of remembrance and opportunity to reflect. The Bishop of Liverpool, the Right Reverend James Jones, will give an address and journalist Peter Elson will reflect on the port of Liverpool, its past and its hopes for the future. During the service a sound scape, put together by the Cathedral and the Liverpool Women’s History for Schools Group, which recalls the night of 14 April and 15 April 1912 and includes songs which were popular at the time will be played.

The Red Ensign and White Star pennant will also be presented as part of the service, Bishop James said:- "The Titanic was a national disaster that deeply affected the lives of many on Merseyside. The Maritime Museum Exhibition and this Cathedral Service give us the moment to remember those both lost and saved and to cherish Liverpool’s maritime history which the city is taking forward with great pride into the 21st Century."

The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Frank Prendergast, who will give a reading at the service, said:- "There are a number of events taking place in the city to mark the Titanic centenary but this service will be a very special and moving occasion. It will give us a chance to reflect on all those who have lost their lives at sea but also look ahead to the city’s maritime future."

Tall Ship Stavros S Niarchos returns to Liverpool for series of day sails and open days

JOIN the Tall Ship Stavros S Niarchos on her return to Liverpool for a series of day sails between 24 April 2012 and 29 April 2012, or explore her magnificent decks as she welcomes visitors on board to have a look around on 2 open days on 27 April 2012 and 28 April 2012.

The Tall Ships Youth Trust is offering 4 day sails on the 200ft square-rigged brig sailing out of city’s Cruise Terminal on 24 April to 26 April and 29 April 2012. On board participants will get the chance to climb the rigging, set the sails, steer the ship and haul the ropes while enjoying the thrill of sailing a traditional Tall Ship.

Local residents and visitors aged from 16 to 80 can join the trips which cost from £99 per person (port & fuel charges not included) to include all training, safety equipment, use of waterproof clothing, food and soft drinks. No previous sailing experience is needed so this is a great introduction to sailing and an unforgettable experience of being on a Tall Ship.

Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for culture and tourism, Councillor Wendy Simon said:- "Liverpool is delighted to be hosting another visit by the magnificent sail training Tall Ship, Stavros S Niarchos to Liverpool. The arrival of a Tall Ship on the world famous River Mersey is always a welcome sight and the Liverpool Cruise Liner Berth allows the ships to berth on a Waterfront that has been transformed by £4 billion of investment. We look forward to welcoming the Captain, the crew and the sail trainees and thank the Tall Ships Youth Trust for continuing to bring the Stavros S Niarchos to the city."

On 27 April 2012 and 28 April 2012 , Stavros S Niarchos, will be open to visitors from 11am to 5pm and Volunteer Crew will be on hand to show visitors around the ship and answer questions. The Trust offers a variety of sailing adventures for both Young People and Adults onboard the tall ship and so information on how to get on board will also be available. Visitors are advised that spaces to look around the ship will be allocated on a first come first served basis.   So do not forget to book!  To find out more or book a place visit:- tallships.org.