A SILVER coin with special significance has been placed under a new memorial in Weymouth dedicated to Merchant Navy sailors who lost their lives at sea.

The memorial on The Esplanade opposite the Pier Bandstand is all ready for its grand unveiling by the Weymouth, Portland and District branch of the Merchant Navy Association on Wednesday (Nov 9) at 11am.

Before the memorial was hoisted into position on its plinth a silver coin that had been minted from the bullion cargo of a sunken World War Two merchant ships was placed underneath it.

The memorial has been carved on Portland, using Portland Stone, and the bronze fittings have been moulded in Bridport, with the railings made in Weymouth.

Captain Paul Compton, of the Merchant Navy Association has previously spoken of how the memorial will be a welcome addition to the town and thanked all those who supported the fundraising effort to enable it to become a reality.

He said: "Weymouth and Portland has a very long maritime history and it is only fitting that we honour the brave men and women who lost their lives at sea while serving their country and their communities.

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