Monument Unveiling Date
May 2027
Fundraising Goal
£250,000
Sculpture Artist
Amy Goodman
Partners
Portsmouth Historic Quarter & Coastal Forces Heritage Trust
Honouring
Men & Women of the Royal Navy's Costal Forces and the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (RNVR)
Location
Opposite Porter's Lodge, near Victory Gate
Design
Reflects courage and ingenuity. An opportunity to give them the recognition they deserve
Tribute
It will pay tribute to the extraordinary bravery, skill, and innovation of the young crews who served in small, fast attack craft during both World Wars.
A major fundraising campaign has been launched to raise £250,000 for a striking new monument celebrating the men and women of the Royal Navy’s Coastal Forces and the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (RNVR).
Spearheaded by the Coastal Forces Heritage Trust and set to be unveiled in May 2027, the monument will stand proudly just inside Victory Gate at Portsmouth Historic Quarter. It will pay tribute to the extraordinary bravery, skill, and innovation of the young crews who served in small, fast attack craft during both World Wars.
We have joined forces with the Coastal Forces Heritage Trust to deliver this significant project, with early donations already secured. Now, they are calling on supporters, veterans, and the wider public to help bring this vision to life.
“This monument is long overdue,” said Rear Admiral Rex Cox, Chair of the Coastal Forces Heritage Trust. “Coastal Forces, the RNVR, and the WRNS made extraordinary contributions in both world wars. The design reflects their courage and ingenuity – and this campaign is our opportunity to give them the recognition they deserve.”
Designed by celebrated Hampshire sculptor Amy Goodman, the monument will feature two bronze figures poised on the bows of a motor gunboat, accompanied by a WRNS signaller. At four metres tall, the sculpture will capture the daring, teamwork, and spirit of those who served in Coastal Forces operations.
Our CEO, Hannah Prowse says, “As the Home Port of Heritage, Portsmouth Historic Quarter is the natural home for this monument.” “We are privileged to be custodians of Motor Gun Boat 81 and Coastal Motor Boat 4R, which allow people to experience the thrill of riding on Coastal Forces vessels. We’re excited at the prospect of this inspiring and interactive monument, which will help bring the stories of courage and daring to life.”
To support the campaign and help honour these remarkable men and women, donations can be made through the Coastal Forces Heritage Trust. – https://coastal-forces.org.uk/monument-fundraising/
