THE SS TORREY CANYON
OIL SPILL
A powerful heritage and screen project retracing the story of the SS Torrey Canyon oil spill through archive, oral history, first-person accounts and film.
THE PROJECT
The 60th anniversary approaches of Britain’s worst shipping disaster, the SS Torrey Canyon supertanker, which ran aground off the western coast of Cornwall, spilling 100,000 tonnes of crude oil and making International headlines in 1967.
Over the next two years, Mor Media Charity is set to document the stories of the spill and the clean-up operation that caused enormous damage to marine life, the livelihoods of local people and also changed the way people viewed the environment, galvanising Cornish communities, many of whom are now in their 70s.​
Black Tide carries profound significance for everyone, symbolising the ongoing evolution of our understanding of environmental impacts, especially those resulting from oil spills and their consequences on marine life, coastlines, and communities. Acknowledging this legacy enhances environmental awareness and accountability; it connects younger generations, families, and broader communities, emphasising the real and enduring effects of environmental disasters.This historical event calls for united action and responsible stewardship, motivating everyone to engage in creating a sustainable future.
RESOURCES
Educational Resources for the Project
EYFS Activity Session Plans
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These Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) activity session plans use the story of the SS Torrey Canyon disaster to encourage curiosity, creativity and exploration through play. Designed for children aged 3 to 5, the activities support the EYFS areas of learning while introducing simple ideas about the sea, wildlife, people, communities and caring for the environment. The plans are intended as flexible starting points for teachers and practitioners, who can adapt them to suit the needs, interests and abilities of their children.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
We will be holding various events around Cornwall over the next 12 months. Come and share your experiences
We are heading out to talk
U3A Group in Hayle
Thursday 21st May
Free
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St. Mary's Methodist Church
Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly
Wednesday 27th May 7pm
Free ​
Torrey Canyon Oil Spill : The People's Archive - Coming Soon
Discover powerful stories, bold conversations, and fresh perspectives. Our channel brings you original audio shorts and interviews from inspiring voices. Whether you're into heritage, film, environment, or community, there's something here for you. Tune in, explore, and connect through sound. New episodes drop regularly — follow to stay updated.
AUDIO SHORTS
This programme offers a wide range of meaningful opportunities for volunteers to gain hands-on experience in areas such as archives, oral history, historical research, community engagement, wildlife, and working with young people.
In the lead-up to the 60th anniversary of the SS Torrey Canyon disaster in 2027, we are keen to highlight collections held in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly that connect to this important moment in environmental history. If you are an archive, museum, or organisation, register your interest.
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HELP US SEE THE FULL PICTURE
OUR FUNDERS & PARTNERS
Black Tide: The SS Torrey Canyon Oil Spill is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to produce archive, oral history, first-person accounts, film and outreach events. Read More >