Those of you who happen to be in Southampton on the 1st September might be attending the opening of the new QE2 Mile, a pedestrian walkway linking the waterfront at Town Quay with the city’s Cenotaph.

An old 13-ton anchor from the QE2 has found a new resting place at Holy Rood Place in the walkway. It is situated outside the Merchant Navy memorial church, which has been there since 1957.

The man in charge of Southampton City Council, Councillor Royston Smith, said “Cunard's generous gift has finally been given an appropriate home in Southampton. Not only will it add an important heritage site to the city, it will also raise the profile of the QE2 Mile and ultimately attract more people to Southampton's Old Town.”

The President and Managing Director of Cunard, Peter Shanks, added that Southampton was the one destination where the QE2 called at more than any other port during her illustrious career at sea. He also said that this tribute to her in her home town was, therefore, entirely appropriate.

He concluded by saying that the new QE2 Mile and the anchor will ensure that the ship’s legacy will be remembered in Southampton for a long time to come.

The QE2 Mile covers not only the waterfront, but also the old town, the high street shopping area and the city’s parks. Apart from the anchor, it also includes the Holy Rood Church, the Titanic memorial, the Bargate, the medieval vaults and the Watergate.

QE2 is currently anchored in Dubai, waiting to be converted into a floating hotel.