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Annual National Service for Seafarers 2021 cancelled by pandemic uncertainties

27 July 2021

This year's Annual National Service for Seafarers (ANSS) spearheaded by The Seafarers' Charity has been cancelled for a second year due to uncertainty over Covid-19 restrictions.

Usually held at St Paul's Cathedral, in London in October, the annual event commemorates and celebrates all seafarers from across the maritime profession and is attended by representatives from all sectors – including the Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, fishing industry, nautical colleges, maritime youth groups and veterans' associations.

Head of internal operations at The Seafarers' Charity Cheryl Gallop said: 'The ANSS Trustees had hoped that it would be possible to hold the Service again this year.

'Unfortunately, due to the continued uncertainties surrounding coronavirus restrictions and the lead time required to organise the Service, they have reluctantly agreed that it should be cancelled.

'Their decision was not taken lightly but, faced with ensuring that all participants and congregation should be kept as safe as possible, there was no other option.'

Ms Gallop said the Trustees hoped to be able to get back to normal next year and are now planning a service for October 2022 on a date to be confirmed.


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