HMS Leigh

HMS Leigh

HMS Leigh

Southend Pier is an icon with a past – a true survivor with an incredible but forgotten, history. None more so than her crucial role in defending the Thames from Southend to Teddington in West London during World War Two.

Celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day, and discover the untold story of why she was commandeered by the Royal Navy from 1939 – 1945 and renamed HMS Leigh with the surrounding shore renamed HMS Westcliff. Unearth her secret role as Naval Command for the Thames and find out how she truly earnt the name The Guardian of the Thames.

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery Players, Blade Education, alongside our supporters and friends will be bringing to life the spirit of VE Day on HMS Leigh once more with an online festival of stories, films, exhibitions, learning materials, and activities on 6th to the 10th May 2020.

The HMS Leigh project and event is created and run by not-for-profit organisation Blade Education.

You can learn more about HMS Leigh by visiting their website.