International seafarers in an Angus port have enjoyed a special slice of local hospitality as part of a landmark celebration for the Sailors’ Society.
Exactly 200 years since the founding of the charity, crewmen from nine vessels berthed at Montrose were involved in the weekend event as part of the worldwide recognition of the anniversary and the body’s important work.
Port chaplain Peter Donald and honorary chaplain Mike Burleigh visited all nine vessels to present a birthday cake to each of the crews, including seafarers from Russia, the Philippines, Poland, Canada, and Germany.
Similar events took place across the globe, with the crews later joining local supporters of the Society for an evening celebration at the society mini-centre on the north quay at Montrose.
Mr Donald said those on visiting ships always refer to Montrose as “the port where seafarers come first.”
“The crews were delighted to receive the gifts and to hear about the many different ways in which our Society has been helping seafarers since it began all those years ago,” he added.
The Christian charity was founded in London on March 18 1818 with the mission of helping destitute seafarers returning home from the Napoleonic Wars.
It has grown into an international organisation supporting seafarers, their families and communities around the world.
Captain Bill Rowe of the Atlantic Merlin said: ‘We greatly value the presence of chaplains in ports everywhere we go.
“They do a great work and always go the extra mile to help in every situation.
Local shipping agents Kinnes Shipping Ltd sponsored the anniversary day.
Mr Burleigh added: “We had intended having the party outdoors but the weather forced us inside.
“It was a bit cramped, but everybody seemed to enjoy the occasion. It is always good for the seafarers to get some time to relax and meet new friends.”
Chaplain Mr Donald commented: “The flags and banners came down at the end of the party but the work of the Society will continue, ministering daily to the needs of the seafarers who find themselves strangers on our shores.”
The charity works internationally to provide practical, emotional and spiritual welfare support to the world’s 1.6 million seafarers. Chaplains and ship visitors have a presence in 91 global ports, with wider projects and services covering 29 countries.
