THE Marchioness disaster occurred on the River Thames in the early hours of 20th August 1989.

The pleasure boat Marchioness sank after being run down by the dredger Bowbelle, near Cannon Street Railway Bridge.

There were 131 people on the Marchioness, including members of the crew, catering staff and guests at a private birthday party. 51 of them drowned.

Among the 51 was Harlow girl, Julie Ibbotson. Julie, then aged 23, was a former pupil at Stewards Academy.

Julie was a model with the Sychro model agency. She drowned along with her boyfriend, Rupert Blackburn.

The tragedy resonated around the world.

Julie’s parents were Michael and Veronica Ibbotson who lived in Thurstans, Harlow.

Julie was buried along with her boyfriend, Rupert in Tring, Hertfordshire.

Photo courtesy of the Harlow Star.