The tragic sinking of the Solway Harvester has been commemorated in a service at Douglas head.

It is 20 years since the Scottish scallop dredger sank in heavy storms with the loss of all seven crew members.

All of the bodies were found inside the sunken wreck. They were: skipper Andrew Mills (known as Craig), 29; his brother Robin Mills, 33; their cousin David Mills, 17; Martin Milligan, 26; John Murphy, 22; David Lyons, 18; and Wesley Jolly, 17.

In stormy conditions, some of those involved in the operation to rescue (which included six lifeboats, two helicopters, two tankers and three ferries including the Ben-my-Chree) and then later recover the vessel and bodies attended the service.

They included members of the island’s fishing community, the RNLI, coastguard, the Steam Packet, and Douglas Council.

A wreath was laid at the memorial by the Chief Minister at the time Donald Gelling, Reverend Nigel Godfrey, Dean of St German’s Cathedral gave a reading and Manx Bard Zoe Cannell read a poem composed for the occasion.

A wreath was also laid on behalf of the Manx government at a service in Whithorn Town, Scotland, on Saturday evening.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said: ’This terrible accident was a massive loss for their families and their community, a loss that is still being mourned two decades on in Scotland and in the Isle of Man.

’As a seafaring nation, we understood the heartache of those left behind and this tragedy has led to an enduring bond between the island and the men’s home towns.’

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, said: ’All our thoughts are with the family and friends of the seven men who lost their lives in this terrible disaster 20 years ago.

’There are close links between Scotland and the Isle of Man, particularly between our respective fishing communities, and I know the people of the Isle of Man share our enormous sadness on this anniversary.

’The tragedy of the Solway Harvester is a reminder of the dangers faced by our fishing fleet, and the courage of those who work in the industry.

’It was a devastating loss to the Isle of Whithorn, and one that continues to be felt all these years on.’

On its Facebook page, Port St Mary lifeboat wrote: ’The crew were out for nearly 10 hours in a force 7 to severe gale 9 south-westerly wind and rough seas, some of the worst conditions our crew have ever seen.

’Everyone at Port St Mary Lifeboat remembers with great sadness, the tragic loss of all 7 fishermen onboard the MFV Solway Harvester and our thoughts are with their friends and families on this sad anniversary.’