On 27th February 1958 a plane on its way from the Isle of Man to Manchester carrying a party of men from the motor trade crashed at the summit of Winter Hill near Bolton. 35 lives were lost that day.

The Rotary Club of Horwich was involved in the efforts that morning to reach the crash site, severely hampered by deep snow and thick mist. In the aftermath, Horwich Rotarians provided help and support to family and friends from the Isle of Man who travelled over to identify the deceased and to be with those recovering in hospital. This began an association with the Rotary Club of Douglas which continues to this day, 63 years later.

The Rotary Club of Horwich marked the anniversary by placing a wreath at the top of Winter Hill in the presence of a small group, restricted this year by Covid 19 protocols. In the Isle of Man, the Rotary Club of Douglas arranged its usual annual Remembrance Service at the park in the centre of the Island where a memorial plaque was erected by the Club on the 50th Anniversary.

Being fortunately free of Coronavirus at the end of February, a group of over 50 people attended the Service in the Isle of Man which was led by Past President David North.

The following week the two Clubs met by Zoom and a recording of the Horwich Service was shared with those present. The members of the two Clubs also took the opportunity to have some time of virtual fellowship together, with the hope that before too long they will be able to meet again in person.