A PORTSMOUTH-BASED charity is inviting Islanders to help fund a “fitting tribute” to Coastal Forces crews who conducted dangerous missions close to occupied shores during the Second World War.
An online funding campaign seeking to raise £100,000 will be live from 8 to 11 May, to support the creation of a dedicated monument to Coastal Forces and the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve.
The monument, by celebrated sculptor Amy Goodman, is due to be unveiled in the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard in May 2027.
Announcing the funding campaign just a few days before Liberation Day, the Coastal Forces Heritage Trust explained that the timing was “deeply significant”.
“Liberation Day holds a special place in the hearts of island communities, marking the end of occupation and the restoration of freedom,” the charity stated.
“Yet throughout those difficult years, the waters surrounding the islands remained a frontline – where Coastal Forces crews carried out dangerous missions in close proximity to occupied shores.”
It continued: “Operating small but fast vessels such as motor torpedo boats and motor gun boats, these crews navigated the heavily defended waters of the English Channel, often under the cover of darkness.
“They conducted some extremely daring missions around the islands including Commando raids, convoy interceptions, reconnaissance sorties, and fierce firefights with enemy coastal forces.”
The charity noted that, during some engagements, the islanders could see and hear the gunfire.
Many of those involved were members of the RNVR.
Jersey’s Lieutenant-Governor, Vice Admiral Sir Jerry Kyd, said: “Conducting extremely risky missions Coastal Forces displayed impressive daring and resolve throughout the Second World War.
“In their small craft, the immense courage of young officers and men harried the enemy off occupied France and the Channel Islands with alacrity and determination, often in darkness and perilous seas.”
He added that the monument “will serve as a very fitting tribute to all those who served at sea with such distinction in Coastal Forces in the Second World War”.
Donations made to the online campaign over the four day period will be matched pound-for-pound by the charity’s sponsors, meaning every contribution is doubled until the £100,000 target is met.
Those who would like to donate can do so online while the online fundraiser is live at charityextra.com/coastal_forces_appeal
