The anniversary of the Winter Hill tragedy that killed 35 Manx residents is being marked this Thursday at St John's.

Members of the public who wish to remember those lost 56 years ago are welcome to attend a service at 10.30am in Cooil y Ree Park or in St John's Church if wet, followed by refreshments in Greens Cafe courtesy of proprietor Nigel Kermode.

The Winter Hill disaster remains the UK's worst high ground aviation accident. Of the 42 people who took off from Ronaldsway Airport on the morning of February 27, 1958, just seven survived the crash at Winter Hill less than an hour later. The plane was carrying a party of local motor traders to visit the Exide battery factory in Manchester.

Members of Horwich Rotary Club were involved in the rescue attempts and every year since the crash a wreath has been placed by the club at the top of Winter Hill. Thursday's remembrance service has been organised by the Douglas Rotary Club.


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