Monday’s mayor making church service looked back two hundred and twenty years to the Battle of Trafalgar for very personal reasons. Dignitaries, town councillors and guests gathered in St Mary’s after Cllr Andy Stuart was sworn in as mayor for a second year at the town hall.
In his address to the congregation, the mayor explained why he was inspired to celebrate Nelson’s decisive naval victory in 1805. “His signal from HMS Victory saying ‘England expects that every man will do his duty’ sums up what so many people in Rye are doing every day. As mayor I get to see people who are doing their duty to our town without the need for acknowledgement. It’s an amazing honour and privilege.”
His family connection to the battle was another reason he said. “My middle name is Peter and six generations back a relative also called Peter would have heard Nelson’s message. He was a rigger on HMS Minotaur during the Battle of Trafalgar doing his duty.”
A display showing naval flags and Nelson’s signals suspended from oars held up by Rye’s sea cadets formed the backdrop to the service which was led by Rev Paul White. Petty Officer Phil Whiteman said it was a good to have the sea cadets playing an important role. “It feels very special to be involved, not least with the attendance of the new lord warden of the Cinque Ports.” Admiral Sir George Zambellas, who was appointed last year, is only the third admiral to hold the title.
The naval theme continued in one of hymns chosen for the service – Eternal father, strong to save. Martin Bruce from Rye Harbour Herrings sang the sea shanty The Death of Nelson. “It’s about the death of a great man, but it also about the sort of virtue he exemplifies. Loyalty. Concerns for his men. Duty. I knew Andy wanted to reflect ‘England expects’ so did some research and found this and learnt it.”
With further readings from Rev Fiona Gill and the mayoress, Niki Stuart, the service ended with a blessing from the rector and two choruses from the national anthem.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .