Spirit of Windrush – Contributions to Multicultural Britain : A Service of Thanksgiving will take place in Westminster Abbey at Noon on Friday 22nd June 2018.

The Service in the Abbey will be held to mark the 70th anniversary of the docking of the MV Empire Windrush, into Tilbury Docks, which brought more than 500 Caribbean men and women who responded to an invitation to come to a country in recovery from the Second World War and in need of help from British subjects who were also Commonwealth citizens.

The service in Westminster Abbey will involve worship, music, carefully chosen words, lessons and prayers and will touch on the themes that are relevant and strident, namely the invitation, the recognising of struggle following the invitation and the creative, unique and significant contributions made by the citizens and their descendants since then.

To apply for up to FOUR free tickets online, click on REGISTER above. Having done so, on the right of the first screen, click on GENERAL ADMISSION, choose to apply for your tickets giving the information requested, then click on CHECKOUT on the next screen. A link to your ticket (s) will be sent to the email address that you enter and you can print them off ready for the day itself.

Doors will open at 10.45 am and members of the congregation are requested to be seated by 11.45 am.

Please note that those attending will need to bring a form of photographic identification (such as a passport or driving licence) to match the name (s) printed on the ticket (s) in case they are asked to produce it for entry. Please keep baggage brought on the day to a minimum, and note that large baggage may not be able to be accepted for entry at the Abbey, so other arrangements separate to the Abbey should be made.

FAQs

What is the entrance to use to attend? Enter via the Sanctuary and Great West Door of the Abbey please and you will be directed accordingly.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket(s) to the event? Yes, you will need both your ticket (s) and an official form of photographic identification, such as a passport or driving licence in case you are asked to produce it on the day.

What is the dress code? Lounge suit (or jacket and trousers) is fine for gentlemen, day dress for ladies, hats are optional, trousers may be worn.

What time do the doors open? 10.45 am.

When will I need to be seated by ? 11.45 am.

Can I bring a guest? You can apply for up to three guests yes in any single application. You would need to register the name & address of your guest to match photo ID they would need to bring with them.

How long will the Service last? The service will last up to one hour.

What if I have special needs? The Church has ramped access and can accommodate all forms of wheelchairs. We also have disabled facilities available. On the day, staff are available to assist once you reach the Abbey. If you have special needs and want to find out more information, please email special.events@westminster-abbey.org, giving an indication of your requirements.