Woolwich Ferry 22nd July 2024

View of the ferries from North Woolwich Side
Ferries in service Dame Vera Lynn and Ben Woollacott
History Of The Woolwich Ferry
Woolwich Ferry was made free to the public in 1889.
Current vessels and berthing infrastructure have been in operation since the mid 1960's.
Crossing provides an important link in the east London strategic highway network, connecting the A406 North Circular with the A205 South Circular.
New vessels will operate at same speed but will have a greater deck capacity and will also be more robust and efficient - improving service availability and journey reliability for passengers.
Dame Vera Lynn first took to the stage aged seven and in the 1930s made her name in the theatres of the West End. She is best known for her 1939 recording of 'We'll Meet Again', the nostalgic lyrics of which were popular during World War 2. She achieved national treasure status when British servicemen named her their favorite musical performer and she became known as the Forces' Sweetheart.
Dame Vera Lynn has Children's Charity dedicated to supporting families with children under five years old with cerebral palsy and motor-learning difficulties. Details can be found here dvlcc.org.uk/.
Ben Woollacott was a 19-year-old deckhand when he fell from the Earnest Bevin Woolwich Ferry in 2011 and died. The Woolwich Ferry was operated by Serco then, not the current operators Briggs Marine. Serco was fined £200,000 over the death, after being found guilty of failing to ensure the health and safety of its crew.