The daughter of a ferry captain who averted a major disaster was among those who attended a special church service.

Madeline Waters joined with Harwich MP Ivan Henderson and his wife Jo and the Dutch Vice Consul, Robin Baker at St Paul's Church, Parkeston, when a presentation copy of a new book about the incident was dedicated.

Eleven people died when the Harwich Hook of Holland ferry SS Duke of York was struck by the American vessel Haiti Victory in the bow section 40 miles off Harwich in May,1953.

The book's author John Cowan said: "Had the Master, Captain Rowland Adams OBE not taken action to order the vessel to go full astern it could have been far worse."

Published Monday, June 2, 2003

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