Trafalgar Day Service celebrates great victory

Every year, since 1973, the Exeter Flotilla has held a Trafalgar Day Service in Exeter Cathedral to celebrate Lord Nelson’s great victory in 1805.

This year on Trafalgar Day, Sunday the 21st October the White Ensign will once again fly over the Cathedral.

The service starts at 11.30 am and will be attended by the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, the Lord Mayor of Exeter and the Deputy Lord Mayor, and Senior Royal Naval and Royal Marine Officers.

In the congregation there will be contingents from HMS Defender, HMS Vivid, the Royal Marines, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth and Sea Cadets from units all over Devon.

To start the Service the bell of the last HMS Exeter will be rung, a Cross, made from the mast of the fourth HMS Exeter and given to the 5th. HMS Exeter on her commissioning by the Exeter Flotilla will be on the altar.

The Most Reverend Dr Barry Morgan, Archbishop of Wales will give the address, The Commodore Britannia Royal Naval College has been invited to read the First Lesson, the Second Lesson will be read by Captain Ian Brannam RN, Lord Nelson’s prayer will be read by the Chairman of the Exeter Flotilla, Commander Rory Jackson RN.

The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines, Commando Training Centre, Lympstone will provide music. Anthems will be sung by the Boys and Men of the Cathedral Choir.

It is hoped (weather permitting) there will be a fly past by Sea Fury T20 of the Royal Navy Historic Flight before the service.

All are welcome to attend the Service.