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News / Wreaths laid to mark Bill Deacon’s death

Coastguard helicopter pilot Norman Leask. Photo: Hans J Marter/Shetland News

Coastguard and lifeboat crews in Shetland paid their respect on Sunday to helicopter winchman Bill Deacon who was lost while rescuing ten crew of the stricken cargo vessel Green Lily, off Bressay, 20 years ago.

Wreaths were laid simultaneously at the site the Green Lily grounded on 19 November 1997, and

onshore where the people of Bressay had erected a cairn to commemorate the sad loss of Bill Deacon.

This was followed by a commemorative service in the Shetland Museum and Archive.

For the full story of the Green Lily tragedy please read our feature Courage and sacrifice remembered at 20th anniversary of Green Lily grounding.

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