Memorial service in Manningtree remembers life of navy man

A crowd gathered by the war memorial in High Street, Manningtree, to remember George Lucas, who lived in Quay Street, and died on July 9, 1941.

Mr Lucas, who was 23, was killed after a magnetic mine struck the steel hull of the steam boat he was onboard, eight miles off Clacton.

The skipper of the Blue Mermaid, Percy Bird, was also killed in the incident which caused the boat to explode.

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It is believed they were carrying essential war supplies.

The wreckage site is now classified as a war grave by the War Graves Commission.

The crowd of about 30 people listened to Mr Lucas’ nephew, Kevin, pay tribute to his uncle’s life.

Picture: Kevin Taylor, Head Over Heels Photography

“It was said that George was the joker of the family, constantly winding up his brothers and sisters – of which there were eleven – giving them funny nicknames and he was always happy and full of fun,” he said.

“The river was a huge part of his life. When he was just nine-years-old he helped save a drowning boy, Spencer Snowling, by rescuing him in his punt just off the shore here in Manningtree.”

Mr Lucas’ name, as a member of the Merchant Navy, is recorded on the war memorial at Tower Hill in London but was never put on the memorial in his home town.

Kevin Lucas added: “We are proud today to be adding George’s name to those of the other brave souls from Manningtree who lost their lives for our freedom during the First and Second world wars.

Picture: Kevin Taylor, Head Over Heels Photography

“I would like to thank John Lucas and everyone else involved in bringing about this chance to recognise George and to put his name on the memorial where it belongs.”

It is now planned for his name to be added to the memorial in November later this year.