The HMS Dunedin Service of Remembrance and Reunion will take place at the Portsmouth Naval War Memorial, Southsea Common, on Saturday 22nd November 2014 at 1200hrs.
To all members of the HMS Dunedin Society
We are looking forward once again to welcoming you to our annual gathering to mark the 73rd anniversary of the sinking of HMS Dunedin. We are delighted to advise that the service will be conducted by the Reverend Colin Noyce OCM (RN) and an Order of Service will be distributed on arrival at the Memorial.
Following the service we will be holding an informal gathering in the Royal Maritime Club (RMC). Hot Lunch/sandwiches may be pre-ordered from the Compass cafe on the morning of the service which will help to speed matters up upon our return. Tea and coffee will be available as well as a full bar. Lunch will be taken at the front end of the restaurant.
As the Reunion is to be held on a Saturday we hope that many of you will be free to join us. There will be a chance in the afternoon to mingle and Dunedin Society members will, as usual, answer any questions you may have about HMS Dunedin as well as anything concerning the life of the ship and her crew during the ship’s war service.
Dinner
In the evening a members’ dinner will be held in Horatio’s Restaurant at 7 pm. All are welcome to join in. Please note that the cost of the meal for non-residents is £15.75 per person (no increase from last year).
Booking
It is important for planning purposes that we know how many people will be taking part during the day so it would be very helpful if you could please advise David Allen (email address below), by no later than the 8th November whether you or your relatives will:
1) Attend the Memorial service
2) Be requesting Lunch
3) Wish to join members for Dinner
We recommended that you make your arrangements as soon as possible.
Email: [email protected]
Accommodation
Should you wish to stay at the RMC we have negotiated a reduced rate for Room/Breakfast and three-course dinner at £47.50 single or £88 in a twin/double per night.
You must make your reservations directly with the RMC, making sure you mention you are a member of the Dunedin Society. Their advance booking line is: 023 9283 7681 and further information can be found at www.royalmaritimeclub.co.uk
Other hotels are available within the Portsmouth area.
Car Parking
Parking on site is on a first come basis. Road parking scratch cards are available for £2.50. Opposite the Club is the Historic dockyard parking offering 50% off relevant stay, but you must have tickets stamped by hotel reception and they can only be redeemed 7am-7pm when pay kiosk operating.
National Memorial Arboretum Alrewas Monday 24th November
As usual there will be a small service conducted at 13.30hrs and very kindly organized by Bas Bowyer at the HMS Dunedin Plinth, followed by Wreath Laying and planting of crosses. Dunedin members from the Midlands are cordially invited to attend. The Order of Service will be distributed at the service.
Dunedin Society Costs
Remember, the Dunedin Society can only operate if its members make voluntary contributions towards its running costs. You can donate online at our new website www.hmsdunedin.co.uk. You can find the PayPal button on the home page or here.
Kind regards
David Allen, Events Co-ordinator