A hovercraft disaster

A local tragedy struck in March 1970 when a hovercraft on its way from Ryde to Southsea overturned in strong winds and a dangerous sea. The chances were given at ten million to one of such an accident occurring. Twenty two people managed to scramble on to the upturned vessel to await rescue by helicopter. However, five people died including one person presumed missing.

First ship building

The first warship built in Portsmouth was the Peter Pomegranate launched in 1509.  This was closely followed by the Mary Rose which had a complement of 400 men and caused 'wonder and admiration of all beholders'.

Early Portsmouth

King Alfred the Great started the Navy here in 897. In 957 King Edgar formed the first Channel Fleet which had Portsmouth as its principal base. In 1066 King Harold fitted out a fleet of 700 ships, which cruised in the Solent until false news caused its dispersal enabling William the Conqueror to land at Pevensey. Twenty year later, William was here to oppose Canute. In 1101 Robert, Duke of Normandy, landed here with a powerful force. In 1106, Portsmouth received it First Charter from Henry I. In 1123 the King spent his Whitsuntide here. In 1133 the Empress Matilda, daughter of Henry I, landed here with a small force ago assert her right to the throne. In 1174 Henry II left form her taking with him as a prisoner William the Lion, King of Scotland. In 1175 Henry returned with his victorious army from Normandy. In 1182 Henry II before his departure for France 'made his will by the seaside at Portsmouth'.

Taken from The Portsmouth that has Passed by William Gates