MV Princess Victoria lecture highlights impact of loss

A lecture reflecting on the human impact of the loss of the MV Princess Victoria will take place on 30 January 2025 in Larne.

Despite the valiant efforts of her crew, lifeboat men and other seafarers, The Princess Victoria – A ferry enroute from Stranraer to Larne – foundered off the coast of the Copeland Islands 72 years ago with more than 130 lives lost, including all women and children on board.

Organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, guest speaker Elaine Barton from Stranraer will deliver the third annual Princess Victoria Memorial Lecture in Larne Town Hall – admission free.

Elaine, who is a leading figure in commemoration events in Stranraer and in the Stranraer & District Local History Trust, will examine the impact of the disaster in the town and the links between the ports of Larne and Stranraer.

Elaine has collected stories of many of those connected with the disaster and will reflect on the aftermath of the tragedy and what it meant to the local community.

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Beth Adger MBE, said the talk will give an opportunity to reflect on the human impact of the disaster.

She said: “The towns of Larne and Stranraer were so closely connected at that time by their port links and many of the crew of the Princess Victoria had family links and friends on both sides of the North Channel.

“We are delighted that we will have Elaine Barton to bring us the perspective of the Stranraer community for this annual lecture. It will help remind us of the strong connections which bind both communities.”

The annual lecture series was inaugurated by Council on the 70th anniversary year of the loss of the vessel on her regular route from Stranraer to Larne, on January 31, 1953.

In addition, the annual Princess Victoria commemoration will take place on 31 January 2025 at 11am at the memorial in Larne.

The event will be led by local clergy and the public are invited to attend the short service and the reception following, in the McNeill Hall of Larne Leisure Centre.  Those intending being present at either event should confirm by contacting Members.Services@midandeastantrim.gov.uk or 028 2563 3288.