WAS THIS A UNIQUE EVENT?
Newhaven hosts the 'Golden Arrow' service
By Derek Longly
Unfortunately I didn't keep a record of the exact date but it must have been around 1955-ish when I heard on the radio one morning (yes that was how one kept in touch in those days!) that the main rail line to Dover had been blocked by a land slip and that ferries which normally used the harbour there were being transferred to other ports for their sailings as a result.
It did not take me long to reach Newhaven after hearing this and I took up position on the East Pier in expectation of seeing some of the transferred sailings and happily saw the elegant Canterbury waiting in the port.
My efforts were thus well rewarded when she sailed out headed for Calais, making a fine sight and I captured the scene as she departed. In fact, moments after I took my photo the ship hit the West Quay a glancing blow, which must have shaken her passengers.
The story I subsequently heard was that this was the 'Golden Arrow' sailing for the day. Although the Invicta was normally used on that service by then, apparently there were doubts as to whether Newhaven harbour could handle her as she was quite a lot bigger than the usual Newhaven ships. Consequently Canterbury was put back onto this prestigious run for this one off occasion.
If anyone can confirm the exact date and verify any of this information I would be most interested to hear.
The lovely Canterbury departs Newhaven - a possibly unique occasion
Derek Longly