| The Battle of Trafalgar 1805 | "England expects that every man will do his duty" With these famous words Nelson inspired his fleet on the eve of the Battle of Trafalgar. The encounter, off the Spanish coast at Trafalgar in October 1805, proved to be the decisive naval battle of the Napoleonic Wars. Nelson defeated the combined Spanish and French fleets without loss of any British ship. But the battle, Nelson's greatest victory, proved to be his last. He was struck by a French musket ball on the first day of the battle. Horatio Nelson is generally regarded as the greatest officer in the history of the Royal Navy. Born in Burnham Thorpe, Norfolk, Nelson balanced his personal ambition with compassion and respect for his men. |
The celebrations are being co-ordinated by Bruno Peek from Suffolk. Bruno was the brains behind the Millennium Eve beacons, and he was also involved in the Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002.  | | Bruno Peek |
On 21st October 1805 Napoleon’s plans to invade Britain were foiled. Despite being outnumbered (33 French/Spanish ships to 27 British ships) Horatio Nelson’s fleet didn’t lose a single ship during the fierce battle off the Spanish coast. However, Nelson was shot and fatally wounded as his flagship HMS Victory took on the French ship 'Redoubtable'. Businesses, families and community groups are being encouraged to organise their own parties as part of the Trafalgar weekend (21-23 October 2005). It’s been suggested that people living in Trafalgar Roads and Nelson Streets could organise their own celebrations. On the evening of 23rd October church bells will ring out across the country to mark the end of the Trafalgar Weekend. If you are interested in organising an event or lighting a beacon visit www.trafalgarweekend.co.uk (or click on the link at the top right of this page). Or call Bruno Peek on 01502 502 626. | 
