Was the event open to everyone?
Absolutely, anybody could join Donington to celebrate the return of Captain Matthew Flinders. Only the church service was for previously balloted attendees.
What time did Captain Flinders arrive in Donington?
The hearse completed a slow drive through the village from Station Street Roundabout to Cowley Academy Sports Field, Quadring Road at about 1:45 and arrived in Church Street for about 2pm to parade to the Church.
Who attended the church service and presentations?
Church service seating was balloted earlier tin 2024, as the only fair way to offer attendance.
However, a Livestream was put in place on our YouTube channel, also shown in Flinders Park during the day
For the Service on Sunday 14th July - Church Doors were open to whoever wished to attend until the Church was full. It was a Holy Communion Service led by the Bishop of Grantham
Where can I watch the livestream of the parade and church service?
We showed the parade, service and presentations on our livestream service at our YouTube channel. Search YouTube for Matthew Flinders Bring Him Home, or follow the link
http://www.youtube.com/@MatthewFlindersBringHimH-uu6gdThe livestream was recorded and is still available to view.
Did the Church bells ring on 13th July?
Yes! The Bell Ringing was muffled to make a duller sound than usual - this is traditional for a funeral - and we were delighted to have the team from Long Sutton to ring for us.
Is there to be any further footage available?
Watch this space! We are working on completing a documentary that focuses on the reburial, scenes from the day. Views from the parade, inside the church and even airborne from our drone!