28/10/2026
🇬🇧🇸🇬 Remembering our shared history: Rotherham and Singapore
Cllr Tinsley
As Remembrance approaches, it’s important that we remember those who served and sacrificed, and the historic connections that continue to link communities across the world.
While away on holiday in Singapore, I was pleased to meet with Singapore MP Ng Shi Xuan after reaching out to explore the historic links between Singapore and Rotherham.
For me, this is a particularly personal connection. Before going to Singapore, my great-grandfather served during the Second World War. He later served in Singapore from 1947 to 1962, and my mother, Elizabeth, was born there in 1962. Our family history is closely linked to Singapore, making this visit an opportunity to explore those connections and learn more about our shared past.
I was especially keen to visit Rotherham Gate, a historic reminder of the links between our two places.
The story behind the gate is fascinating. HMS Rotherham, a Royal Navy destroyer, was involved in the surrender of Japanese forces in Singapore at the end of the Second World War.
Although the ship was named after Admiral Rotheram rather than the town itself, the people of Rotherham established their own connection with the vessel. During Warship Week in March 1942, the people of Rotherham raised an impressive £785,616, exceeding their £700,000 target and securing the town’s adoption of HMS Rotherham.
After the war, a gate at the former Sembawang Naval Base was named Rotherham Gate, recognising this historic connection.
During my visit to Woodlands Waterfront, I had the opportunity to see the site for myself. Today, nature has reclaimed much of the area, with a large banyan tree obscuring the remains of the gate. Although the physical structure is largely hidden, the story behind it deserves to be remembered.
My conversation with MP Ng Shi Xuan was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas about our shared interests in building safer communities, supporting young people and the role local representatives can play in improving people's lives.
We also discussed what more could be done to recognise and commemorate the historic links between Rotherham and Singapore. This is something I’m keen to take forward and will be discussing with local partners back home in Rotherham.
As we approach Remembrance, this visit has reinforced how the service and sacrifices of previous generations can create lasting connections between communities thousands of miles apart.
I hope we can find meaningful ways to preserve this shared history, honour those who served and ensure future generations understand the special connection between Rotherham and Singapore.
Lest we forget.
