Historic ship visit 'a poignant reminder'

The visit of a historic Norwegian cargo ship to the River Tyne has a special significance for one local man.

The S/S Hestmanden, which served as a convoy vessel during World War Two, will be berthed in Newcastle until Thursday as part of a UK tour marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

For Chris Flanighan, its arrival is a poignant reminder of his grandfather, Karluf Thorsen, who fled Nazi-occupied Norway and served throughout the war in the merchant navy.

He said: "This ship symbolises the life he lived, and the risks he took".

Built in 1911, S/S Hestmanden played a vital role in transporting medicine, food, fuel, ammunition, and weapons during the war.

It also formed part of a covert flotilla of fishing boats used to smuggle soldiers, agents and freedom fighters between Norway and Shetland, and on return trips helped to evacuate refugees and Allied soldiers.

Now a national treasure in Norway, it serves as a floating war sailors' museum, preserving the legacy of those who kept the supply lines open.

Mr Flanighan, from Wallsend, North Tyneside, has spent years uncovering the legacy of his grandfather.

"He left Norway around the age of 17 or 18 and didn't return home until he was 22," he said.

"Germany had occupied Norway, and he was part of the convoys supplying the Allied effort from Britain.

"This ship symbolises the life he lived, and the risks he took".

In a tribute to his grandfather's legacy, Mr Flanighan has been invited to join the Maritime Volunteer Service on one of their vessels as part of a ceremonial escort up the river.

"When I heard the ship was coming to Newcastle - the last stop on her UK tour - I was over the moon," he said.

"It's not just a ship visit. For me and my family, it's like she's coming home."

During the visit, people have a chance to go on board the floating museum until Wednesday and explore its interactive exhibitions.

There will also be events including a wreath-laying ceremony at Norwegian war graves in Jesmond.

Capt Stephen C. Healy of Trinity House, Newcastle, said: "This historic visit reaffirms the deep maritime bonds between Norway and the north-east of England.

"It is a tremendous privilege to help honour the legacy of the war sailors."

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