Thief Ravages St. Cecilia’s Final Farewell by Stealing Priceless Ship Plaque
The triumphant send-off of the iconic Wightlink ferry St. Cecilia has been left in tatters. Just as celebrations ended, a lowlife swiped the ship’s treasured plaque, casting a shadow over the heartfelt farewell.
End of an Era Tarnished by Theft
After decades of faithful service ferrying passengers across the Solent, St. Cecilia made her final sailing last Friday. From portsmouth/" title="Portsmouth" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight, rain or shine, she was a beloved fixture, trusted by thousands every week.
Staff pulled out all the stops for the decommissioning event, juggling shifts and organising the party in their own time. One team member even bought “The Celia” beers at their own expense to mark the occasion. It was a smashing send-off – until someone with sticky fingers ruined it by snatching a cherished piece of memorabilia.
Beloved Shipyard Plaque Vanishes in Seconds
The missing item is the Cochrane’s Shipyard “Ship 135” plaque, proudly on display as St. Cecilia disembarked at Gunwharf. Owned by a Wightlink staff member, this precious keepsake had lived in a special glass case at their home for 10 years.
“I am truly, truly devastated,” said the owner. “It was there, we literally just turned our backs for a moment, and then it was gone. This plaque isn’t just ‘office stuff’ – it’s my favourite and most treasured item, given to me when the bar was refurbished a decade ago.”
Appeal Launched for Safe Return of Stolen Plaque
Wightlink and the plaque’s owner have launched an urgent appeal. They ask anyone with information or who knows the whereabouts of the plaque to return it anonymously to:
- Wightlink Ferries
- Gunwharf Road
- Portsmouth PO1 2LA
No questions will be asked. The owner hopes whoever took it will understand its value and do the right thing.
This treasured piece of maritime history deserves to come home.
