The Maritime Volunteer Service (MVS) Northumbria Unit commemorated Remembrance Day on Sunday with its 12th Annual Parade of Sail on the River Tyne, paying tribute to those who have served and sacrificed. In a moving procession, a small fleet of vessels sailed up the river, pausing near the iconic Millennium Bridge to observe a two-minute silence and lay wreaths in honour of the fallen.
The parade began with vessels assembling in the Ouseburn area at 10:30 a.m., where the MVS Northumberland Freemason led the procession, followed by MVS Melita, acting as the control vessel, and joined by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue, Viking Warrior, Red Seal Rescue, and the North East Maritime Trust historic vessel joined for the section between the bridges. With many onlookers gathered on the busy Newcastle Quayside Market, the sight of the vessels was a powerful reminder of community spirit and respect.
“This annual Parade of Sail has become a meaningful tradition for our community,” said Regional Volunteer Officer Angela Carrington. “Every year, we see an overwhelming response from the public, who join us to pay tribute to those who served. It’s an honour to bring everyone together on such an important occasion.”
At 10:59 a.m., a brief address was given by the event’s Padre aboard MVS Melita, followed by the ceremonial laying of wreaths from Melita and the Tyne and Wear Fire Boat. A blast of the horn then marked the beginning of the two-minute silence, observed solemnly by the crews and the gathered audience. The silence concluded with a signal broadcasted on Channel 69, uniting the vessels in a powerful moment of shared reflection.
Since its inception, the Parade of Sail has drawn interest and support from residents and visitors alike, becoming a key Remembrance Day event in Newcastle. The Maritime Volunteer Service remains committed to honouring service and sacrifice, fostering a sense of unity on the River Tyne each year.
For more information on the MVS please see the web site http://www.mvs-northumbria.org.uk
Ends
Photos The Bigger Picture Agency
