Taunton Rotary Club Salutes Lord Nelson

Lord Nelson and The Royal Navy saluted by Rotarians

Taunton Rotary Club commemorated the 220^th anniversary of Admiral Lord Nelson’s historic triumph at the Battle of Trafalgar. ‘Trafalgar Night’ is traditionally marked by a roast beef dinner, toasts to the immortal memory of England’s great naval hero and entertaining contributions by distinguished guests.

Taunton Racecourse’s Orchard Restaurant was dressed overall with signal flags and the White Ensign to set the scene. Guests included The Mayor of Taunton retired Royal Navy and Royal Marines veterans who joined Rotarians to hear Commodore (ret’d) Bill Kelly RN share an informative and entertaining insights into his career and experiences of Trafalgar celebrations in times past.         

The Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 was one of the most important battles in this country’s history. It was instigated to deter Napoleon from invading England. Many sailors and marines perished in the conflict. In fact, the Royal Navy lost 450 men, but the French and Spanish fatalities numbered around 4,500.

The English fleet was led by Admiral Lord Nelson whose body was brought back to London he was honoured with a State Funeral held at St. Paul’s Cathedral and where he was laid to rest in a magnificent tomb.

Club President Adrian Prior-Sankey, himself a Royal Navy Reserve Chaplain, concluded with a toast in appreciation of the past and present service rendered by the men and women of the Royal Navy.