ORDNANCE Survey has published a special edition map commemorating the bicentenary of the Battle of Trafalgar. The map, called The Trafalgar Way, depicts the route taken by Lieutenant John Richards Lapenotiere who was entrusted with delivering news of the naval victory and the death of Nelson to the Admiralty. Lapenotiere made a momentous journey by post-chaise from Falmouth to London ? stopping off at Okehampton and Lifton to change horses ? and arrived just 37 hours after setting out. As well as showing his route, the map includes a description of the battle and its aftermath and information about the people and places that played an important part in Nelson?s life. Product manager Debbie Cable said: ?Trafalgar was a turning point in world history. It also had a dramatic impact on Ordnance Survey as it paved the way for the comprehensive mapping of every part of the country, however remote. That?s why we are delighted to commemorate the anniversary of this decisive battle with a special edition map.? Both Okehampton and Lifton will appear on the route of a re-enactment procession which will be staged in the summer to mark the 200th anniversary of the messenger?s momentous journey. A national project team will re-enact the event by calling at the same towns as Lapenotiere in 1805, visiting Lifton on Monday, August 15 and Okehampton the following day. A cast of actors will arrive in each of the locations in a replica post-chaise vehicle and make a presentation to civic dignitaries. A large bronze commemorative plaque will be presented to the town which, pending listed building consent, will be placed outside the White Hart Hotel where Lapenotiere changed horses.
