Mooring charges lifted for vessels participating in WW2 commemoration

Ramsgate Harbour will exempt vessels participating in a World War Two commemorative event in France next year from mooring charges. Approximately 60 European vessels, affiliated with the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships (ADLS), are anticipated to stop at the Kent harbour during the week commencing May 19, prior to their journey to Dunkirk for the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo. During the period from May 26 to June 4, 1940, over 338,000 soldiers were evacuated, with nearly 100,000 being collected from the beaches by the little ships and transported to bigger vessels. A representative for Thanet District Council, the authority that approved the fee waiver, stated: “By reducing the cost of taking part, it is hoped a larger number of vessels will be encouraged to attend the event.” The fee exemption will apply on May 17, 18, 24, and 25. The association undertakes this voyage quinquennially; however, the 2020 event was called off because of the pandemic. Subject to weather conditions, the little ships are scheduled to set sail for France early on May 21. The Royal Navy and Ramsgate RNLI Lifeboat will accompany them, and the crossing is estimated to last approximately seven hours. Dunkirk plans to host several commemorative activities, including a war memorial situated on the beach. Furthermore, the association will participate in the British Commonwealth War Graves Commission ceremony within the town. Simon Palmer, who serves as the secretary of the ADLS and is the current proprietor of the vessel Hilfranor, commented: “It’s important that we keep them going now that the veterans are no longer with us.” The ADLS fleet plans its return to Ramsgate on May 26.