A plaque from the battleship H.M.S. Montagu, which was wrecked on Lundy in 1906, was presented to St. Mary’s Church, Appledore, for safe keeping at Sunday’s evening service.

It was presented by Captain Nelson Clover, R.N. retd., now 80, who was a midshipman on the Montagu when she ran aground.

In the photograph above Captain Glover (right) is seen holding the plaque at the church gate. Accompanying him is the Rev. Gilbert Molesworthy, of “Berrimans,” Northam, to whom he originally gave the plaque and who suggested it should find a home in Appledore Parish Church, which has other maritime links.

A letter received just before the service from Lord Montagu of Beaulieu said: “I was terribly interest to hear of the plans to present the plaque in Appledore Church. I did not know that my father had presented a plaque to this ship. I think it is a wonderful idea, and send my very best wishes for the presentation ceremony.”Gazette article dated 23rd June 1967