SIBS to close for Queen’s funeral

British Marine, organiser of Southampton International Boat Show, will be closing the show for the state funeral of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on Monday 19 September.

In a statement, organisers say this is ‘mark of our deepest respect for her and her family’.

The notice continues:

‘British Marine and the whole UK marine leisure industry were deeply saddened by the loss of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and have joined the nation in mourning her passing. Our thoughts and condolences remain with the Royal Family at this time as we mourn a much-loved monarch, who has served the nation with tireless dedication and an unwavering sense of duty over the last 70 years.

‘Following the recent announcement that Her Majesty’s state funeral will take place on Monday 19 September, British Marine, the team behind the Southampton International Boat Show, has agreed that the show will not open on Monday 19 September as we join the nation in a day of national mourning and remembrance for her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’.

Tickets remain on sale for all other days of the show.

“Following discussions with our many stakeholders it was agreed that closing the show as a mark of respect would be the most appropriate course of action,” says Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine. “Closing the show on Monday 19 September will allow everyone, from those manning the stands, to those teams behind the scenes, the opportunity to join the nation in remembering The Queen on this day of national mourning.”

British Marine says all exhibitors and ticket holders have been notified of these changes.

Visitors who have purchased tickets to attend the show on Monday 19 September will now be able to attend another day of the show. British Marine says this process will be completed automatically by its ticket partner and people do not need to do anything. But, visitors with further queries regarding tickets should contact boatshow@ticketsellers.co.uk.

Main image courtesy of the Royal Family’s facebook page.