Pacific Glory

Tragedy struck in 1970 when a supertanker carrying crude oil, the Pacific Glory, collided with another, the Allegro, and blew up in the Solent killing thirteen of its crew and injuring many more. The tanker went aground near Sandown on the Isle of Wight. The Portsmouth City Fire Brigade responded with exceptional efficiency in an operation that involved approximately 200 firemen and that took over 40 hours. Due to the promptness of the response pollution from the spill was limited and the resulting slicks dispersed before reaching the local tourist beaches. Three local firemen were awarded the British Empire Medal as a result of their work in this operation.

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.

Farlington Marshes

This marshland area on the outskirts of Portsmouth was saved from develoment in 1970 when Portsmouth City Council compulsorily purchased the area for £43,500. It was feared that it may have been sold for development land. Shortly afterwards a lease was given tothe local Wildlife Trust and Farlington has remained one of the most treasured refuges for birds in the country ever since.

Portsmouth Coat of Arms

Portsmouth’s Arms, comprising an azure shield bearing a gold star and crescent, has been used for 800 years. Its history is uncertain but thought to be based on those of Richard I, or his Lord Chancellor, William de Longchamp, who granted the Town's first charter in 1194. The motto "Heaven's Light Our Guide" which was registered in 1929, is that of the Order of the Star of India and of the old Indian troop ships which embarked their passengers at Portsmouth.

Further changes were made to the arms in 1970, when Portsmouth Museums Society sponsored the grant of crest, supporters and heraldic badge. This shows a sea lion and sea unicorn which are maritime version of the Royal Crest and Supporters - a rare privilege reflecting Portsmouth's long association with the Crown. The unicorn wears a naval crown and is wrapped a representation of "The Mighty Chain of Iron", the Tudor defensive boom across Portsmouth Harbour. The crown worn by the sea lion refers to the land defences which surrounded Portsmouth from Elizabethan times to the 1800s.