Morecambe cockling tragedy 20 years on: pictures are poignant reminder of events that shocked the world

By Debbie Butler

Published 1st Feb 2024, 10:05 BST

Updated 1st Feb 2024, 10:14 BST

February 5 sees the 20th anniversary of the Morecambe cockling disaster in which 23 people lost their lives.

These pictures – which appeared in The Visitor and Lancaster Guardian newspapers at the time – are a poignant reminder of the fateful evening of February 5, 2004.

Flowers left in tribute to Chinese cockle pickers who perished in the sea at Morecambe Bay.

1. Morecambe cockling tragedy 20 years on

Flowers left in tribute to Chinese cockle pickers who perished in the sea at Morecambe Bay. Photo: John Hughes

Rescue teams continue their search over Morecambe Bay on Friday February 6, 2004.

2. Morecambe cockling tragedy 20 years on

Rescue teams continue their search over Morecambe Bay on Friday February 6, 2004. Photo: John Giles

An RNLI hovercraft returns to the shore at Morecambe on February 6, 2004 after a search of the bay.

3. Morecambe cockling tragedy 20 years on

An RNLI hovercraft returns to the shore at Morecambe on February 6, 2004 after a search of the bay. Photo: Phil Noble

The rescue operation at Morecambe Lifeboat Station on Friday February 6, 2004.

4. Morecambe cockling tragedy 20 years on

The rescue operation at Morecambe Lifeboat Station on Friday February 6, 2004. Photo: Phil Noble