A TRIBUTE to the Windrush generation will take place at Tilbury today (23 October).

Two Basildon-based youth leaders working with a lecturer at South Essex college, have galvanised the shipping community to re-stage the arrival of the Windrush at Tilbury port in an emotional tribute to the generation who arrived on our shores in 1948.

The annual celebration on 22 June at Windrush's landing point was cancelled due to Covid-19.

However, at around 11.30am a flotilla comprising Port of London vessels, Police launches, a Uber Boat by Thames Clippers and two Thurrock yacht club boats will fly Union Jacks, Jamaican and official Windrush flags, bunting with sirens and hooters making maximum sound, blasting out Bob Marley's anthem of unity One love 'One love, one heart, let's get together and feel alright.'

Five representatives on shore taking the sail past tribute will be children and a grandchild of the Windrush generation.

Three black Jamaican siblings, one white senior leader of Essex Council, and a charity worker of mixed heritage black Jamaican and white British.

Thurrock mayor Cllr Terry Piccolo will also attend.

The event coincides with a campaign highlight the danger of losing the specialist skills marine engineering unit at South Essex College, Basildon, and will be preceded by a conference To discuss the national skills crisis in engineering and construction which will be attended by local MP Stephen Metcalfe.

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