THE anchor of a Finnish ship which was wrecked at Redcar in the 19th century has made a return to the town’s seafront after the multi-million pound transformation of the promenade.

The anchor was recovered from the wreck of the Finnish barge “Birger” which struck the Saltscar Rock at Redcar in October 1898.

It was removed and refurbished as part of the £30m regeneration of the seafront by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council and the Environment Agency, which has given the promenade a new lease of life. Now the transformation is nearing completion, the anchor has returned and is taking pride of place in the heart of the promenade, opposite Clarendon Street.

Today (Sunday, May 5), to mark its return to Redcar seafront, the Dormanstown and Redcar branch of the Merchant Navy Association held a Dedication service.

Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Olwyn Peters said: "The anchor has become a much loved part of the promenade and we are delighted to have it back, fully restored in such a prominent place on the seafront.

“It serves as a memorial to all mariners who have perished off our coastline, including the 13 men who lost their lives from the ‘Birgers’ 15-man crew and is an important part of the town’s history and heritage.”

Tony Whatmore from the Merchant Navy Association said: “Following a great deal of commitment from our Members, the Association has raised the funding to have a plaque manufactured to remember all seafarers who died in WW1 & WW2 and all conflicts since.

“This anchor will commemorate their sacrifice and will be the Merchant Navy Association’s memorial for future years."