Remembering the floods 60 years on

Thursday, 07 February 2013

RESPECT: Residents, council members and flood survivors gather at the Remembrance Service held outside Canvey Library. Picture by Mark Cleveland

By Paul Peterson

TWO hundred people gathered to remember victims of the 1953 Canvey Floods on Friday.

The crowds met outside Canvey Library in High Street for the official unveiling of a new memorial plaque to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the disaster, which claimed the lives of 58 local residents.

The unveiling ceremony was conducted by Councillor Peter Greig, chairman of Canvey Town Council followed by a remembrance service, which was led by Rector of Canvey, Reverend David Tudor.

The crowds, including many flood survivors, then sang a rousing chorus of Amazing Grace.

Mr Greig said: “It was great to see such a good turnout especially those who came from abroad and other parts of the country and county to be there. It is an opportunity to remember those who died and acknowledge the survivors and the many individuals and services involved in the rescue.”

The new plaque, which is made of black granite, was funded by Canvey Town Council.

Visitors were also able to take a look at a flood exhibition, which was produced by the Canvey Community Archive, the Canvey Library and representatives from the Environment Agency.

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