Summerland: National service marks 50 years since fire tragedy

A national service of remembrance has been held on the Isle of Man ahead of the 50th anniversary of the Summerland fire tragedy.

The disaster claimed the lives of 50 people when fire broke out at the entertainment complex on the evening of 2 August 1973.

The names of those who died were read out by friends and relatives at the service St George's Church in Douglas.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan said it was a chance to pay respectful tribute.

In Tynwald earlier this month, he issued an apology for the "pain and suffering felt by everyone affected" after a public inquiry highlighted failings in the building's design.

The names of those who died were read out by survivors and relatives

Speaking at the service, Mr Cannan said it had been "incredibly humbling" to hear about the experiences of those who were present at Summerland "on that fateful evening".

He said: "I have heard first-hand about the pain and the suffering, the flashbacks, and indeed in some cases the lifelong physical and mental scars.

"We cannot expect necessarily to heal the scars, but I hope at least that by joining together in the way that we have, we can all extend the hand of friendship and support, and provide, I hope, the foundations to keep moving forward together."

Fifty holidaymakers and local residents died as a result of the fire

Sunday's service was attended by many people directly affected by the tragedy, including the relatives of those who died, some of who travelled to the island for the service, and former members of the emergency services who dealt with fire and the aftermath.

Chief Minister Alfred Cannan addressed those attending the service

The island's bishop Right Reverend Peter Eagles delivered the sermon at the service

Delivering the sermon, the island's bishop, the Right Reverend Peter Eagles, said: "We cannot undo what happened 50 years ago, but we can offer our deepest lament and grief and sorrow and sadness.

"We cannot negate those losses of life and those life-changing injuries, but for those who suffered them, we can honour them. We can honour those people, and thank them for their courage and for their witness.

"It can only be understood by those who were there, and who were bereaved, injured or had whatever life-changing encounter with it, but to all of you we would say we stand with you in your sorrow and we offer you our prayers and our love."

A book of remembrance was commissioned for the anniversary

Many of those who attended the service were affected by the disaster

A book of remembrance was commissioned in which people were invited to record their memories and tributes to mark the anniversary, and which will be kept in St George's Church following the service.

A further service will be held by Douglas Council on the anniversary itself on Wednesday at the Kaye Memorial Garden on Douglas Promenade from 19:00.