Silent Sailor gets new home in Christchurch on wall of Portfield Community Hall after being vandalised twice in Barrack Road rec

A SILENT sailor memorial figure in Christchurch has been moved to a safer home after twice being vandalised.

It was first attacked in July 2019 but was repaired by Bob Mackinnon of Christchurch’s Men Shed and the charity REMAP, which makes equipment for disabled people, before being reinstalled.

Then 18 months later it was vandalised again in its original position on the recreation ground off Barrack Road, this time being kicked off its plinth.

Bob and REMAP came to the rescue once more, returning the silent sailor – which is sponsored by the Royal Naval Association (RNA) – to its former glory.

To protect its future, the metal silhouette has been relocated to the wall of Portfield Community Hall.

Rick Squibb, chair of Christchurch and District RNA, said he had passed a “huge thank you to Bob who has again pulled out the stops to make good our tribute to those who are dearly remembered”.

He said he was also grateful to BCP Council groundstaff at the Christchurch depot who came to the aid on both occasions by rescuing the remnants of the damaged sailor.

Mr Squibb thanked the trustees and management of Portfield Hall for allowing the tribute to have a permanent home.

He said it was an “apt” location as both the RNA and the sea and army cadets hold their monthly meetings at the hall.