A virtual service will take place this weekend in remembrance of those who have died working in the offshore oil and gas industry.
The UK Oil and Gas Chaplaincy “regretfully” decided to host the UK Oil and Gas Industry’s Annual Service of Remembrance online due to restrictions on congregational gatherings.
Although many Covid-19 restrictions in Scotland have been lifted in recent months, the Chaplaincy said number would still have had to be limited.
As such, the decision was taken with a “heavy heart” not to hold a service in the church.
Instead people will be able to view Saturday’s memorial live online – a link will be made available on the morning of the service.
For the first time ever, no names have been added to the UK Oil and Gas Chaplaincy’s Book of Remembrance this year.
The book, which is housed in the Kirk of St Nicholas’ Oil Chapel in Aberdeen, is a record of those who have died offshore.
It was established during the 25th anniversary year of the Piper Alpha disaster of 1988.
A post on the Chaplaincy’s website stated: “We are delighted to announce that this year, for the very first time, there have been no names added to the Book of Remembrance recording the details of those who die offshore.
“However we have to regretfully announce that the UK Oil and Gas Industry’s Annual Service of Remembrance will be a virtual service this year, available online on Saturday, 6th of November.
“At the stage of discussing and planning the service it was doubtful if we would be able to hold such a gathering due to government restrictions on congregational gatherings.
“Churches are open in Scotland, however, there are still restrictions including social distancing and mask wearing. Numbers would have to be limited and track and trace operated.
“As well as the restrictions already mentioned, most importantly, we would not want to exclude anyone from our annual service.
“With the agreement of the Trustees, and with a heavy heart, we took the decision not to hold a service in the church.”
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