A 'fitting' memorial

Jamie Borthwick • Published 5 May 2010 16:00

A TRIBUTE to the three seamen who died when their tug boat capsized in the River Clyde at Clydebank has been described as "fitting and dignified" by the son of one of the victims.

The memorial plaque to the crew of the Flying Phantom was unveiled to around 40 friends and family of the men - including the sole survivor of the tragedy - on Saturday.

Stephen Humphreys, 33, the skipper, Bob Cameron, 65, an engineer, and crew member Eric Blackley, 50, lost their lives when the vessel rolled over when its tow cable snagged, and sunk in the icy waters opposite Queens Quay in December 2007 in foggy conditions.

Brian Aitcheson, 39, was the sole survivor having escaped the wheel room to be plucked from the water by a quick thinking boatsman based at Rothesay Dock.

With support from Clydebank Re-built, councillors took forward plans to commemorate the tragedy, which culminated in Saturday's ceremony.

At a civic reception at Clydebank Town Hall, relatives of Eric Blackley spoke of their gratitude to West Dunbartonshire Council for the tribute.

Eric's son, also Eric Blackley, told the Post: "We are really pleased as a family group that West Dunbartonshire Council did this.

"I didn't really know what to expect when the plaque was unveiled but it is a fitting and dignified tribute."

Malcolm Blackley, the brother of the deceased crew member, added: "I want to thank everyone involved in everything today - the councillors and dignitaries who gave their time for this service.

"It is much appreciated."

Addressing the assembled crowd on the blustery riverfront, Provost Denis Agnew spoke of the sad circumstances that brought them together.

He said: "The Flying Phantom was a tragedy which is difficult to forget in Clydebank.

"The night it happened I was chair of a council meeting along the road and we were stunned when events started to unfold."

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This article appeared in Clydebank Post 05 May 10

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