Commemorative Films Launched At Sandown Bay Premiere

Members of Sandown & District Historical Society welcomed the Island's Vice Lord-Lieutenant Brigadier Maurice Sheen, President of IW RBL Ian Ward, Sandown Town Councillors, community residents and guests to the premiere of films commemorating the 3 HMS Sandown's, and the life of former Shanklin resident Donald Canadine Bate, and his part in Operation Market Garden.

Local residents contributed anecdotes and personal memories about the history of the 3 HMS Sandown's, including it's vital role at Dunkirk and 80 years ago at Normandy, with the Bell from the 3rd ship on display in the foyer at the Broadway Centre, unveiled to commemorate D Day earlier in the year by the Island's Lord Lieutenant.

The HMS Sandown Film is available on the 'Growing Up In The Bay' youtube channel, with the link 

Maurice Sheen said:

"They are absolutely superb films, well researched and professionally presented - these films give important stories to posterity and put the Island on the map."

With the 80th Anniversary of Operation Market Garden approaching on 17 September, the second film chronicles the life of WW2 paratrooper Donald Canadine Bate, former Shanklin and Seaview resident, a local journalist who went on to be the Sports Editor at the Daily Mirror; with Island actor Dominic Pope narrating his diary written daily at Arnhem.

Ian Ward added:

"I enjoyed both films, especially about HMS Sandown, it represents our Town with old friends contributing to the making of both films, and it is timely to reflect on the events of 80 years ago."

The evening included a special thank you to Adrian Simons, who led the renovation of a commemorative bench, as well as uniquely commissioned mugs presented to those that made the films possible; and the 'Operation Market Garden' film will premiere on 17 September with the link https://youtu.be/xXy9DBCHNfQ and includes reference to Donald Bates brother, actor Anthony Bate.