Memorial service in Manningtree remembers life of navy man

A crowd gathered by the war memorial in High Street, Manningtree, to remember George Lucas, who lived in Quay Street and died on July 9, 1941.

Mr Lucas was killed aged 23-years-old after a magnetic mine struck the steel hull of the steam boat he was onboard, eight miles off Clacton.

The skipper of the Blue Mermaid, Percy Bird, was also killed in the incident which caused the boat to explode.

Picture: Kevin Taylor, Head Over Heels Photography

It is believed they were carrying essential war supplies, and the explosion was seen by fishermen and sailors all along the Essex coast.

The wreckage site is now classified as a war grave by the War Graves Commission.

The crowd of about 30 people present listened to Mr Lucas’ nephew, Kevin, pay tribute to his uncle’s life.

“It was said that George was the joker of the family, constantly winding up his brothers and sisters – of which there were eleven – giving them funny nicknames and he was always happy and full of fun,” he said.

Picture: Kevin Taylor, Head Over Heels Photography

“The river was a huge part of his life. When he was just nine-years-old he helped save a drowning boy, Spencer Snowling, by rescuing him in his punt just off the shore here in Manningtree.

“George would also often help sail the barge from Ipswich, taking cargo to and from London.

“The family were thrilled when more recently a new barge, an exact replica of the Blue Mermaid, was built by the Sea CHANGE Sailing Trust. Finished in 2015, the barge can be found sailing the east coast and regularly winning barge sailing matches.”

Mr Lucas’ name, as a member of the Merchant Navy, is recorded on the war memorial at Tower Hill in London, but was never put on the memorial in his home town.

Picture: Kevin Taylor, Head Over Heels Photography

Kevin Lucas added: “We are very proud today to be adding George’s name to those of the other brave souls from Manningtree who lost their lives for our freedom during the First and Second World Wars.

“I would like to thank John Lucas and everyone else involved in bringing about this chance to recognise George and to put his name on the memorial where it belongs.”

It is now planned for his name to be added to the memorial in November later this year.

Town mayor Michelle Taylor added: “I must extend my thanks to the Lucas family for bringing George’s life, service and death to our attention.

“It is with great pride we stand alongside the family to honour one of the town’s sons.”