Celebrations have been held in Tilbury today to mark the 70th anniversary of the arrival of the SS Empire Windrush into the port in 1948.
Hundreds of people on board travelled for 30 days from Jamaica to begin a new life in Great Britain.
Guests were welcomed by Forth Ports Chief Executive, Charles Hammond, followed by and address from Thurrock MP Jackie Doyle-Price with a thanksgiving service.
Crew member Peter Dielhenn addressed the audience telling the story of the journey.
A free community celebration event is taking place at the site this afternoon
The Windrush70 celebrations were funded by Thurrock Council, Tilbury on the Thames Trust, Tilbury Riverside Project, Heritage Lottery Fund and the Port of Tilbury.
Charles Hammond, Chief Executive of Forth Ports said: “Today is a day for celebrating the anniversary of the Empire Windrush generation arriving, their continuing contribution to public life and the influence the passengers have had on British culture over the past 70 years.
“Tilbury was the gateway for the Windrush generation all those years ago and today it is fitting that we are the facilitator of the celebrations on the anniversary of their arrival. I want to thank everyone involved in making this a memorable day.”
Cllr Deborah Huelin, Thurrock Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities, said: “The arrival of the SS Empire Windrush in Tilbury was a huge milestone in the history of both Thurrock and the rest of the country.
“It was a real honour for the council to be involved in today’s 70th anniversary celebrations and we were delighted the community came together to recognise the important role of the Windrush generation in the birth of multi-cultural Britain.”
Tags: Thurrock, Tilbury
