A CEREMONY being planned next year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Severn Bridge disaster will revive memories for thousands of Forest people.

The collision in fog and darkness between the Sharpness-bound tankers Wastdale and Arkendale ended in tragedy when the vessels were swept upstream of the dock entrance and collided with a pier of the Severn Bridge.

The explosion which followed brought down two spans, cost five seamen their lives, severed a gas main and disrupted school for dozens of youngsters who travelled daily from Berkeley to Lydney.

The disaster on the night of October 25, 1960 brought stories of dramatic rescues as sailors from the two vessels were thrown into the Severn. Several spent hours in the water before being found.

Among them, the late George Cooper, of Buckshaft Road, Cinderford, survived for over four hours in the swirling tide before being rescued off Lydney. Well known Forest boxer Percy Simmonds, also of Cinderford, was less fortunate and lost his life.

Emergency measures included shipping in hundreds of portable gas cookers while special trains had to be introduced to make the journey to Lydney via Gloucester for pupils who used the river crossing to attend Lydney Grammar School.

The decision to mark the 50th anniversary of the disaster is being spearheaded by Paul Barnett, the maritime historian who is recording the hulks at Purton and Lydney.

Mr Barnett wants to erect plaques to identify and record the history of the remains of the two vessels, the bones of which are still visible in the river. He also wants plaques on both sides of the river.

While talks are ongoing, it is likely that Lydney harbour will be the probable site for the Forest plaque which will record the names of all the crew members and the first verse of 'Eternal Father'.

The organisers say they hope to invite family members of all those involved to attend the unveiling ceremonies.