Winning names for Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport vessels announced by
Toronto Port Authority

New ferry to be named after pioneering marathon swimmer Marilyn Bell ; current vessel to be named after Second World War hero David Hornell

TORONTO , Jan. 7 /CNW/ - The Toronto Port Authority ("TPA") today announced the winning names of its Name the Boats contest to christen and rechristen the two ferries serving Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport ("BBTCA").

The new ferry recently delivered to the TPA will be named the Marilyn Bell , while the current ferry will be renamed the David Hornell.

People throughout Ontario submitted names either online or at kiosks in the BBTCA, and 10 finalists were chosen for an online vote over the past month to determine the winners.

"The TPA is thrilled that Torontonians have chosen names with such historical significance that reflect the determination and courage for which our city and country is famous," said TPA President and CEO Geoffrey Wilson . " Marilyn Bell and David Hornell are both inspiring figures, and it's clear to me that voters have made excellent choices."

Marilyn Bell was the first person to swim across Lake Ontario. In September, 1954, at the age of only 16, she swam over 50 kilometres from Youngstown , NY, to Toronto , a feat that made her an international celebrity and that earned her a place in Canada's Sports Hall of Fame.

A photo of the new ferry is attached.

Flt Lt. David Hornell was a Second World War fighter pilot born on the Toronto Islands. His heroic actions to save his fellow crew members when his plane was shot down by German forces - actions that ultimately led to his death - earned him the Victoria Cross , the highest military honour in the Commonwealth.

Those who submitted Marilyn Bell's name had their names entered into a draw to win a $500 travel voucher for airfare on Porter Airlines. Jane Dobell of Ottawa was chosen as the winner of the voucher.

/NOTE TO PHOTO EDITORS: A photo accompanying this release is available at http://photos.newswire.ca. Images are free to accredited members of the media/

For further information: Janet MacDonald, [phone]