A memorial to the victims of the Winter Hill disaster is to be held on Wednesday, February 27 to mark the 61st anniversary of the crash.

The flight from the island to Manchester had 42 people and board and claimed the lives of 35 of them just an hour later when the plane crashed into the Lancashire hill in 1958.

The memorial will be held at Cooil y Ree Park in St John’s and is again being organised by the Douglas Rotary Club.

Howard Callow of Douglas Rotary Club said: ’As well as remembering those who lost their lives, the families and friends, thanks will also be given to the residents of Horwich, an in particular members of the Rotary Club, who did so much to help in the rescue of survivors and provide comfort and support.’

The Winter Hill disaster remains the worst aviation accident to occur in connection to the island.

It occurred just days after the Munich air crash which destroyed the Manchester United team and nearly killed manager Matt Busby, meaning its significance was lost in Britain.

The Bristol Aircraft Type 170, owned by Silver City Airways and operated by Manx Airlines, was being used as a charter flight. The flight was to carry a group of mainly motor traders to visit the Manchester Exide Battery Factory and Manchester car show.

Last year marked the 60th anniversary of the crash. Isle of Man Newspapers spoke to the sole living survivor, Norman Ennet, who explained the impact the crash had on the island’s motor industry.

Mr Ennet said: ’The majority were in the garage business and it flattened the place.’

The service starts at 11am. Refreshments will beprovided afterwards at Green’s Cafe in St John’s .