Comment: My father George Ronald Ivor Brazier.JX 288261 served in the R N R from 1941-1946 as a Submarine Detector on the HMS Quadrille T133.From 1941-1944 after this he was posted to the shore establishment HMS Tana Kilindini Kenya from 1944-1946. Other depots he was based are as follows HMS Raleigh,HMS Europa and HMS Assegai.Like all of the lads that served with the RNR he was very proud of his ship and all of the mates he made in his time aboard because as everybody knows the RNR lads were more experienced seamen than the RN.I have really enjoyed visiting the site and reading all of the lads stories and may sometime find somebody that new my father better or worst. My best regards and the best of luck to all of the lads that served on the Little Boats.
- Ron Brazier

Comment: I was a passenger (aircrew in transit) on ORONSAY when she was torpedoed just before dawn on 9 Oct 1942 by Italian submarine Archimede. Here continues a long saga.....

Comment: I served on HMS Cypress between 1940-1941 as a signalman and rejoined general service then on to foreign service. I spent 20 years in the Sea Cadet Corps as a Lt Commander and in later years as the District Officer for District 5 end 1974. I would be pleased for any contact through my daughter.

Comment: A BOB McGarry Veterans section...It is with great sadness that I have to report the Death of My father Henry James McGarry 'Bob' to his friends and family. Dad passed away peacefully with my mother and myself at his side in a nursing home in Tenterden on March 14th 2004 and is now buried in the church yard at Biddenden. A few years ago I sat down with dad and helped him relate his story for the veterans section...The moment was right I was able to tell him how very proud I was of him and that I loved him. Hundreds of years from now he and his kind will still be remembered I am sure. Bless all those who did their bit..Thanks Nick for a great site. Steve

Comment: Would like any information on HM Drifter AURORA which was sank on 30th October 1943. My uncle Alfred Ronald Simpson was a seaman on board this vessel.This is a very good site - keep up the good work!

Comment: My Uncle Wilfred Boyes also known as Bill Boyes seved on the BYMS 2052 from 1943 - 1946. He would be grateful to anyone with information on the minesweeper or crew.I have one photograph of my uncle and crew mate Tommy Holland,in Ostend harbour.

Comment: I served on board H.M.S. ACACIA From 1942-1943.I would like to hear from any crew members from this period. I also served in H.M.S.DEODAR T124 for six months during 1943. I was a Stoker during my service in the R.N.P.S. 5 years.I am in touch with one crew member from the ACACIA and three from the DEODAR. Any one wishing to contact them I can put them in touch.

Comment: sto frank tyler any members of the crew of the hdml 1280 please get in contact thanks.

Comment: Trying to find any information I can about a minesweeper WW2 - the Benachie. My father served on it. Also does anyone have any info about an inshore fishing boat 'Nellie Murray' out of Buckie that vanished. Rumoured that a bomb went down her funnel. Thanks for any help on these. Moira McLeod.

Comment: Does anyone remember MMS 268 - Philip Pullen from Melbourn in Cambridgeshire was on board during the D day landings. After the war he was on MTB's.He would be interested to speak to any other crew member he served with. He can be contacted through this address.

Comment: Best wishes to all HMT Aloette survivors!

Comment: I am looking for information for a ninety three ex Greenfly crew member.
I was an army man The Gordon Highlanders Serving with GHQ Liaison Regt., ( Phantom )
John Campbell, Glasgow

Comment: My grandfather John Murdo MacLean of Breanish, Isle of Lewis served with the RNPS from 3 November 1943 - 15 May 1947 he served aboard HMS ML105,DEO Volante, BYMS 2168.He would be pleased to hear from anyone who also served on the ships or any knowledge of the boats.

Comment: Great site! - it has been a wealth of general information. I am researching my Grandfather John Elton Wilmot. He served 1939-1945. He joined the RNVR at Oxford and originally was a radio operator on wooden ships possibly 'The goat'. He did work on minesweeping and was based at North East command. He had reached the rank of Lieutenant Commander by 1942. I know he towed Mulberry Harbours in for the D-Day landings. He finished up on the Solway Firth looking after U Boats. He may also have served on HMS Hawthorn and a trawler coded T32 . Please contact me at the EMail address if you have any further information.

Comment: My Great uncle John Cornfield was a Stoker aboard the Orfasy when it went down on 22nd October 1943. He was only 19 years old and I have just started trying to find out anything I can about him and his ship. I'd be grateful to anyone who has any information that I could share. Any information that you might have collected through trying to find out about you relatives also on the Orfasy.I also have a photograph of John and another unknown sailor.Great site!

Comment: Very interesting as my father was sparks on HMS TWOSTEP during WW11.

Comment: My husband's father Arthur Ethell served as Cheif Engineer on the Northern Rover patrolling from Kirkwall, sunk on 31st October 1939. Would be interested to hear from anyone who has any information about their activities or about their demise and would also be very interested to hear from anyone else who may have had a relative on board that ship. Look forward to hearing from you.

Comment: My interest lies with my mothers' first husband, Ted Renyard. He was a Petty Officer on board HMS Jura - T169, sunk by torpedo from U-371, Jan. 7th 1943. Recently I have returned all his affects and many photograhs of his service and with my mother to his surviving brother. Remembrance day is here again I have placed a simple plaque with the names of those lost with the ship on the Southsea memorial

Comment: looking for infomation of mfv109 1942-1943 LOWESTOFT, was there one if so am i right in thinking it went to south africa ? My father Sydney Brewster was gunner on board at the time,A VERY HELPFULL SITE THANK YOU, PLEASE contact R BREWSTER (son )

Comment: I have a friend living in suffolk who was a wren during world war 2. She spent a lot of time at the gunnery school at Cove Hive near lowestoft. Her name is elaine pritchard. Does anyone know of the gunnery school at Cove Hive or have some interesting stories to tell about it.

Comment: I am researching the minesweeper my grandfather served on during WWII. His name is Herbert 'Bert' Allen and he will be 80 years old in October.He served on BYMS 258 which he collected from the Weaver Shipyard in Orange Texas in February 1944. I would love to hear from anyone who may have served with him or knows anything about the minesweeper. Many thanks. .

Comment: My father in law len west has just passed away he was 91. we have just found papers with all his ships on and his medels and we would like to find out more. He started at raleigh in 5 march 1941 the cochran valorous 31 may 41 to 4 jan 42 wild fire 21 may 43 to 14 oct 43 cochan1 5 oct 43 to 21 june 45 I would like to find out a lot more but not sure were to go please can you help. we have the name pembroke and nairana. On the sheet it has w. s. i. 3 years and w s i 4 years.Not sure if you can help maureen west.

Comment: My father (John, Jack or Taffy Jones) served as a Stoker on HMS Property from 1944 based at Grimsby then to HMS Wildfire in Queenborough. He was pleased to see this site and the interest in the Patrol Service.
Have just been to the Annual Memorial Service in Queenborough it was very moving. My father would be very pleased to hear from or about any of his old shipmates
Glyn Jones

Comment: A WELL PRESENT AND THOUGHTOUT SITE CONGRATULATIONS. Anybody out there still sailing from my days on the Hannaray T389 or the Annet after her conversion to a wreck dispersal vessel the DV2?..

Comment: 12th scottish isles flotilla
Anybody out there who served on any of the above.?1941-1944. Tobermory, Harwich, Oran, Algiers, Bizerta, Malta.1942-45
Best regards to Nick for this great web site.
Jack Varley. Sig.Westray.

Comment: I am part of the volunteer group preserving HDML 1387 (The last sea going HDML in original configuration). As part of this project I am researching the wartime history of HDMLs in particular and Coastal Forces in general. I have produced an extensive electronic database and am prepared to address e-Mail
queries regarding individual boats.
In return I would welcome information to addd to the database.

Comment: I am researching the minesweeper my grandfather served on during WWII. His name is Herbert 'Bert' Allen and he will be 80 years old in October.He served on BYMS 258 which he collected from the Weaver Shipyard in Orange,Texas in February 1944. I would love to hear from anyone who may have served with him or knows anything about the minesweeper. Many thanks.

Comment: My old father served on board HMS Kilchrenan from Oct 1943 - June 1945. This type of ship he tells me is a BEC4 type vessel, or PCE 830 as it was leased from the USA. Is there anyone who can help me with any links or photos etc? It would make an old man very very happy.....and it would give me such a thrill to present him with with a framed clip-board with all the info I can find on it. It would be priceless to him.

Comment: I'm trying to find someone who knew my grandad Kenneth Blastland he was in the navy from the 1940s i was hoping to find some sort of photo of him while he was in the navy as he has lost every photo he had. It would be a lovely suprise for him if anyone has any information about where i could get a photo from. Thank you.

Comment: Can anyone give me some information on the trawlers BRACKENMOOR and RICHARD CROFTS? My father-in-law served on them John Elliott. I would appreciate it if anyone who remembers him or the 2 boats can contact me with info and photos. Thank you.

Comment: I Having just found this website I had to make some conact or comment at least. My father JV or more often "Jimmy" Stevens served throughout the war on a number of conyvoys inlcuding, I believe the infamous PQ17. Dad was a born and bred Cornishman like myself and proud of it. Sadly Dad died over a year ago but was still a total bunch of fun to me, my wife, his wife our children and indeed all he met or knew. This seems quite incredilble after suffering the tremendous hardship that all thes every brave young men knew. We must never forget their courage in war or their respect and kindness even to old enemies. I worked with many Germans for 20 years or so andnever knew anger, remorse or bitterness either way.
I believe that Dad served some considerable, or even most of the time, on a conveted trawler called the "Norhtern Wave" -- one of a number of similar ships (all built in Germany he told me only a couple of years ago) as part of repatriation from ealrier conflict. The others were called the Southern Wave, The Northern Star and The Southern Star? Stories of those times often lulled me to sleep in the mid 1950s as a child. Not the violence, just tales of the sea, huge waves and cold as I sank deeper into my warm Cornish bed.
If we could all hold on to at least half of the values of those times and learn from the stupidity, we would not perhaps be so endearing of the past but all give a better future to the world.
P.J. (Stevens)

Comment: I have an old naval friend who served on the whaler HMS Ullswater. He has asked if I can find which similar vessel had the wartime pendant number FY239. Are you able to help? Incidentally my town Gillingham in Dorset raised the money to pay for HMS Pine. I have been in touch with past crew members and heard of rnps museum through them.

Comment: Can anyone help with information with regards to my granfather john henry hunt who served on the minesweepers during ww2. Unfortunately all I have is a d.o.b. Born in bicester %2C UK nickname probably Jack. any help is much appreciated. cheers frankie h

Comment: I have really enjoyed looking through this site. My father Derek John Petley died 2yrs ago aged 74. I know he was based at Chatham Docks around 1943 and served on a minesweeper as a telegraphist - I think it was in the North Sea. Until recently we had a photo of the ship he served on possibly HMS Tangiers or a similar name. Does anyone remember him?

Comment: Jack Mulligan, FLEETWOOD. I was R.N., but served in RNPS Ship, HMS SHIANT, T.170, Isles Class, 1943/44, in the Med. Paid off mid 1944 at Milford Haven and after leave was returned to Lowestoft depot. Returned to General Service with regret, at my own request, to take aKillicks course. SHIANT was the best ship in which I ever served from 1039 to 1954. Shipmates included ALBErT MANN & GEO.RewCROFT, Scarborough, GEO.KETLEY, Hull - all sadly have now crossed the Bar.
Best Wishes to all surviving Sparrows. I"m proud to have served among you.

Comment: Great site - My father Alf Stear LT/FJX543894 served on HMS Grassholm and the BYMS minsweepers 2204 2052 & 2056 between 1943 and 1946. He was stationed at various locations including Lowestoft and Plymouth before transferring to Singapore in 1945. He's being trying to track down any information on his ships and former shipmates. He would be delighted to hear from anyone who served on these ships with their crews of unsung heroes. Damian Stear.

Comment: Hello to all. I wonder if anybody can help me? I am trying to find information on the mine sweeper called Oystermouth Castle - My Uncle served on her and I am trying to track down anyone that knows of her or if anyone could point me in the right direction of where to start my search. Thank you.

Comment: Served from 1942 to 1946 trained at royal arthur nov 1942 and lochinvar firth of forth europa in december served on kingston peridot from january 1943 in granton scotland until july 1943 ocean view in plymouth from sept 43 until jan 44 robert stroud in aberdeen from feb 44 till oct 45 ml 1413 from nov 45 till feb 46 0riginally from chepstow gwent s wales have lived in canada since 1954 any old shipmates recognize my name?.

Comment: Great Uncle EDWARD LEWIS ROWSE, whose name appears on the Paignton, Devon war mem was a fisherman seconded to minesweeping on the River Dart,Devon.We have a photo of the crew involved but no names. Family legend has it that he was also involved in the relief of Dunkirk. Would dearly like to have more info if any available.The site is worthy of brave men.

Comment: A great site!looking for information on a Minesweeper called Hms Midsummer.

Comment: Great site. very inpressed. If anyone can help me I would be very greatful. Im looking for information regarding two boats. One called the Rudilias and the other the Fusilier. I beleive these are the right spellings. My father served on both of these boats in the second world war. He will be eighty this year and it would make his day as well as mine if I could find some information regarding both of these boats. He is very proud to have served as a stoker class 1 on this patrol boats. I beleive that one of these boats was a trawler. My fathers name is Wally Semple if any one can remember him please leave your e-mail address and I will get back to you a.s.a.p Thanks for any help you can give. Will check in regular.

Comment: My name is Bernie Dawson served in the RNPS home depot was St. Lukes ex hospital in Lowestoft for stokers service # LT/KX 737146 later in BYMS2046 in Singapore, at present living Australia since 1960, after discharge was 2nd engineer of the steam trawler Veranis out of grimsby, owned by the Bacon Bros.
I can be contacted at grumpy2@tpg.com.au

Comment: Hello everyone. Looking for anyone who might remember Gordon Richardson, accidentally killed
aboard HMML 2582 (don't know the name) in 1952, at the age of 19. He was my cousin and I am trying to find more information about his service, his ship or ships and the accident.
Thank you for any assistance you can give.Respectfully,
Louise E. Post,
British Columbia, Canada,

Comment: hello out there, has anyone got any info about the armed trawler "HMS FIR", ie pennant number etc. and if possible any photos of this ship. I'm doing some research on behalf of Mr. Richard " Dick" Dongers family, anyone remember him?
*HMS Fir was a 'Tree Class' armed trawler pennant number T 129 launched 27/1/40 and sold 1946 (built by Inglis; Altchison Blair. Also please see below - Paul Layfield's enquiry also regarding HMS Fir posted 29 June 2002 regarding his father.

Comment: Trying to trace information concerning the BYMS 2211 on which my late step-father served during 1944. SM LT/JX242453 Edward Flamborough Major died 31st March 2003 after long illness. He fondly remembered his service in the RN on minesweeping duty and particularly BYMS 2211 and the 159 Flotilla. There was also a mention of a bombing by German aircraft where the bomb was dropped down funnel on one of the vessels he served aboard killing a shipmate. Any information would be appreciated.

Comment: Served as Signalman aboard HMS Scalpay 1943 to end of war.Would be great to hear of, or from any old shipmates.

Comment: I would like to call upon any member of the Royal Naval Patrol Service whom served with my uncle (the late Percy (Pep) Goddard). Born in 1923 in Grimsby and joined the Royal Navy in April 1941 at HMS Impregnable (Plymouth). and from there he went on to HMS Raleigh at Portsmouth. And from there he went to HMS Europa at Lowestoft. Qualified for his Silver MS-AS on November 4th 1942. Serving with the RNPS along the coast of the British Isle's he went abroad to Asagia (South Africa) until the near end of the war in Europe and came back to Lowestoft.The details I have on my late Uncle seem to be brief, but I don't think I could fit all the information i have into one introductional email. Please contact me as I am at present working to raise funds for the RNPS (Grimsby Branch) and would like as a personal note to be in touch with any one whom served with my Uncle.

Comment: I was trained at HMS Collingwood, Victory and the RNPS Barracks Europa. I served aboard HDML 1029,1387, HMFT 8, BYMS 2002,2234 and the LST 417. It would be great to hear from any of those folks who also served back in those dim distant days!

Comment: I am attending a dinner tonight with members of the RNPS vetrans in Grimsby. Men i am very very proud to know!

Comment: I've have been searching for the ship that my father sailed on, in approx.1942-1947. I don't know the name of the ship, but if anyone out there knew Norman Lee Morley please contact me and tell me any info you might have. Thank you

Comment: Minesweeper trawlers BALMORAL, AVALANCHE, Minesweepers ORESTES,LINGAY My dad George Bell Smith Watson sailed in them WW2. From the deck of AVALANCHE, with a Lewis gun, he shot down a German aircraft which crashed on Selsey Beach. It had previously attacked FOXGLOVE. Either BALMORAL or AVALANCHE was blown from under him off the Needles. He said he was at his last when picked up by a RN launch. The coxswain had been in Aberdeen trawler QUIXOTIC wrecked on the Bell Rock, 1939. Broughty Ferry lifeboat rescued the crew and my dad was one of the lifeboat crew who had rescued that coxswain, some coincidence. ORESTES was D-Day off OUISTREHAM. I have a letter he wrote in 1945 in Singapore as 1st Lt. of LINGAY warning the crew to not fraternise with the beaten Japanese. He was mentioned in dispatches 3 times and won the DSM. Unfortunately he only ever said that was for winning a fish-supper eating contest in Portsmouth. He passed away in 1969,

Comment: Very interesting and informative site and a fitting tribute to those who served. Lest we forget!

Comment: Hello Great site. I am hoping to contact shipmates of my Dad's. His name is Ron Matheson from Nairn, Scotland and during WW2 and Korea he served on HMS Mauritius, Jutland, Widemouth Bay, Birmingham and HMS 1098 among others. Any information would be most appreciated. Sincerely Andrew Matheson

Comment: What a wonderful web site!I am researching my Fathers WW2 service his name Sam Dobson, born Grimsby he was on several mine sweepers,also HMS Europa HMS Vernon,he was a fisherman before and after the war,he was lost at sea on 10-6-1953 .I am trying to find out as much as I can about his war service. I am finding this site so helpful. Dad was a cook on Yashima. Milford Duchess and Kingston Andalucite and others. M. Skrokov (Dobson)

Comment: Can anyone give any information on an armed trawler/minesweeper called the cape melville my father served on her in the 1940s thanks C. Hindle..

Comment: Hello I was recently researching my father's wartime service history - John Oakley - HMS Inkpen. Now aged 76, when I came across this site. After reading through the Veterans stories we were delighted to see one particular story - Geoff Bewers which was about his time on the Inkpen in Freetown. This was exactly the same time as my father. Even more amazing is the photo taken on board ship showing the crew - there in the photo is my father. We would like to know if possible if there is any way of contacting the author or members of his family or if there is anyone else who was associated with the Inkpen.
*Please refer to my email sent 6/1/03 for contact details etc..

Comment: My father Norman.B. Milliken was part of the B.E.F.that was evacuated from St. Nazaire France on June 1940. He was put on board the HMT Lancastria it was bombed and sank. However he made his way on to another ship the Oronsay which from what I can find out took a direct hit to the bridge just prior to the Lancastria being attacked. It was not disabled and managed to take on more men. I have been searching for more information on this ship was she HMS RMS I'm not sure I did find that she was built in 1925 by J. Brown Co. Clyde BankScotland. for the Orient Steam Navigation Co. Ltd. She was sank by an Itailian sub on October 1942. I am trying to find more information on the ship as well as any available drawings or photos. I have only found 1 and it was on an Itailian WWII Navy site. Any information would be greatly appriecated
*On October 8th SS Oronsay was sunk by Italian submarine "ARCHIMEDE.
Italian submarine "ARCHIMEDE" was sunk by USAAF patrol aircraft in the South Atlantic on the 15th 1943
More infomation go to:
www.regiamarina.net/subs/submarines/archimede/archimede_us.htm
http://www.royalpioneercorps.co.uk/rpc/history_lancastria.htm
Please also refer to my email sent 4/1/03

Comment: Good site! Searching through my grandfathers Certificate of service came across BYMS 2016 1946 anyone have any info please? My Grandfather was from Romsey Hampshire if it jogs any memories.

Comment: Nick - Great Site.
Does anyone remember a ex Belgium Trawler 'HMT Vishurst' that was sunk by mine in March 1942. I have searched in vain for a reference to this ship. She was part of an escort group lead by 'HMS Vivacious'.I suspect the ship may have had another designation but any help would be much appreciated Thanks Peter

Comment: My Dad Reginald Breary served on several M.M.S and I have his Silver Badge and several pages of his memories - good and bad. This site is a great tribute to all those who served in the Little Ships and as you can tell by the letters your work does not go unappreciated. Congratulations on a job well done.
Doug Brearey

Comment: I am Superintendent Paul Shone of The Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen from the North Shields Centre.
I have been asked by one of the guy's who works on the harbour if I can find out about the death of his Grandfather George Nag's who was killed in the middle East in 1944, he was I believe in 'Harry Tait's Navy, & he would like to know if his body was recovered, if so where is he buried, but also what happened to his ship, & any details about it & its loss, (I don't know the name of the ship) where can I trace his name please?
Paul Shone, R.N.M.D,S.F. Union Quay, North Shields, NE30 1HH
01912571316.
E-mail, northshieldsfm@aol.com

Comment: I find that your site is very interesting. I am a member of the South Australian Vindicatrix Association here in Adelaide South Australia. I served on the Training Ship Vindicatrix in 1948 training as a Deck boy priot to spending a few years at sea. I currently publish a newsletter for our group bi-monthly and would like to have your permission to print some of the stories published on your site. These stories I know are copywrite but for me to print them would give an extension of the internet to our non-computer members. Your sincerely Ken McTigue

Comment: I find that your site is very interesting. I am a member of the South Australian Vindicatrix Association here in Adelaide South Australia. I served on the Training Ship Vindicatrix in 1948 training as a Deck boy priot to spending a few years at sea. I currently publish a newsletter for our group bi-monthly and would like to have your permission to print some of the stories published on your site. These stories I know are copywrite but for me to print them would give an extension of the internet to our non-computer members. Your sincerely Ken McTigue

Comment: I am researching my late brother in laws service in Minesweepers for his daughter. His name was Thomas Arthur GOUGH and he went to America in 1943 to HMS Asbury in New Jersey. He subsequently served on the BAM31 BYMS31 later renamed the HMS Steadfast. Any information about the minesweeper and where she served and any details at all about her or her crew would be greatly appreciated and acknowledged. Mike McDonnell

Comment: looking for anyone who served or has information on the destroyer HMS VOLUNTEER on behalf of my father who served on board during WW2 Stoker %27Nobby%27 Sam Clark from Invergordon%2C Rosshire. It is his 80th birthday this year and any information on books/photos or shipmates would be appreciated.

Comment: A good site. Deceased father was a PO Engineman served minesweeping Drifter Golden Harvest 1940-41 out of Vernon Northern Chief Jan 42-April 44 including Canada States Carribean East West South Africa and Northern Gem April 44-July 45 France Iceland and Germany. Tenders in discharge papers. VernonII Marshall Soult Colonsay Pyramus SakerII Gnu Assegai Kongoni Irwell and of course Europa. Joined RNPS early 1940 after recruiting campaign by RN for experienced seamen to serve on small ships. Being merchant service and ashore without a ship he volunteered before the Army got him. Cheers GW Mitchell

Comment: interesting site.I would be very gratefull if anyone could pass on information about my second cousin Wren Kitty Crockford who died at H.M.S Europa May 12th 1942 Thanks.

Comment: So pleased to find this site have been trying for some time to find information about converted trawlers in WW2. My father William Albert TASKER of Boston Lincs. served aboard H.M.S. Filey Bay Europa and others. Any information about him would be greatly appreciated. He sadly passed away in 1989.

Comment: Search background on my Grandfather ALBERT EDWARD FULLER WW2 SHIPS AJAXdecorated battle river plate re electical repair during battle .HMS COSSACK we have artifacts from ship HMS VERNON this ship mentioned on his marriage certificate of 1940 at age 29 to my Grandmother Elizabeth.Both lived in Brighton he died around 1944 whilst home on leave.Think he was originally from London.We think he is mentioned in the Book BATTLE OF THE RIVER PLATE.This has yet to be investigated. Anyone has any information or help in directing me towards with my search then please reply to my Email. Mucho appreciado. Nicky

Comment: Great site enjoyed reading everyone's comments.I have been looking for information on my Uncle Jack.He served om HMS Flying Fish during the war.He sailed in and out of Halifax Nova Scotia.I believe he went by SPO.D.H. Willshaw and hailed from the Oxford area. Would appreciate any help in locating him.

Comment: Any shipmates of my brother jimmy pope can give me any info of ships he served in he was about 17 years of age.

Comment: Nick When this first started did you know how GOOD how POPULAR and APPRECIATED it would be. My father has taken great pleasure in it as have all the family. I can see from the response from around the world just how much it means to those who served and their families. Regards Tim

Comment: HMS Hascosay (attached 5th.M/S Flotilla)
Was seconded to the RNPS from HMS Victory after doing course for Radar Plot 3. HMS Hascosay was built by Cooke, Wellton & Gemmell of Beverley and commissioned in the Princess Dock, Hull, 1944.What an interesting site, long may it reign!

Comment: Trawler Orfasy
Great site looking for any information leads or photos regarding my uncle Seaman Elijah Cyril Butt LT/FJX.188859 He served in the RNPS from 1940 to 1943. He was lost on October 22nd 1943 when the trawler Orfasy went down of the west African coast.

Comment: Interesting site!
My Dad Harry Willows served in the RNPS on the 'Northern Sun / Northern Star both on the north atlantic convoys and later in the med. I believe the Northern Sun was built in Hamburg Germany which I always found very amusing. I have tried to find any reference to the ships but as yet failed. This site needs complimenting on providing an excellent insight into a perhaps forgotten arm of the RN but none the less very important. Any help would be greatly appreciated. . .

Comment:
PO Doreen Burt, billiting office HMS Europa
PO Alfred Brown HMS Europa

Comment: H.M. Gairsay
If anyone has information regarding H.M.Trawler "Gairsay" sank 3rd Aug.1944 on which my father signalman Norman Coupe served, the writer would like to hear from you.
Regards: Roger Coupe..

Comment: HMS Pozarica
I found your Web Site very interesting. My father served on HMS Pozarica PQ17 convoy 1939 - 1943 is name is Leo Lenehan till it was sunk. He is very much a live at the age of 81 and if there are any members of the Crew of the Pozarica are out there please contact me at my E- mail address Keith@lenehank.fsnet.co.uk at any time.

Comment: hms scalpay,lingay,wildfire
Brilliant site, more info than i've ever been able to find before.Looking for info on my dad HUGH HOY who was based on Europa.PO(MW) JJ HOY

Comment: Sam Fred Mather
I am seeking any information regarding my father. Born 1901 Woolwich, died 1953 at Bognor. Prior to Wavy Navy was a speedboat owner/operator. Port Division LOWESTOFT. Was involved with DUNQUERK. Served at EUROPA, TORMENTOR and QUEBEC as engineman from 1940 to 1942. Promoted to sub Lieutenant and then at VICTORY, DINOSAUR and QUEBEC1942 to 1944. Promoted again to Lieutenant at PRESIDENT and PEMBROKE from 1944 to 1946. There are no other official records released but he recieved the Italy Star and Africa Star so was overseas.
My family and I would love to know what he was doing and what sort of man he was. Can anyone help please?
What a wonderful site, especially for people like me who have come up against a brick wall!
Alun Jones
Bushman Industrial
0754659211

Comment:
Well Done! Very informative site, Has been a great help on a project which i am working on
Regards Hugh Hainey, Kitbag Military, Edinburgh

Comment:
I'm trying to find out any information about trawlers which my brother in law served on during WW2. He was on HMT FUSILIER, RUDILAIS and JEAN EDMONDS. Can anyone give me any information about them?

Comment: HMS Lord Hailsham
My father Edward Patrick Grant Digger was a Wireless Operator on the above until mid 1942 when he was commissioned going on to become a Lieutenant RNVR landing craft. He has never spoken much about his experiences except that his ship was torpedoed 27th Feb 43. Now at 83 he has asked me to use the Internet to see if there are any surviving ship+mates still around. Sincerely and very touched by this site messages Peter Grant.

Comment:
I am researching the service of my wife's uncle in the RNPS. He was lost with four other skippers aboard the SS Vibran in September 1942. They were in transit to collect US minesweepers from Halifax Nova Scotia. H J Wink
was a Grimsby man, son of James Henry Wink who was lost in a minsweeping incident in the North Sea. If any one can assist in my research efforts, I would be delighted to hear from them.
I am also researching my Grandfather, Charles Hayward who was in the RNPS in WW1 & 2. He was a trawler skipper in Lowestoft and was called up in both world wars for minesweeping duties. In WW1 he was awarded the DSO when in command of a trawler that snagged a U boat in its nets. The U boat was subsequently captured. My mother, Irene Hayward was a Wren at HMS Europa in Lowestoft.
Any information about my family would be very much appreciated. Excellent web site - keep up the good work!

Comment:
My Father in law Joseph Bannan served in the RNPS 1942 1947 he sadly passed away last year he had the 1939 star Africa star Italy star FRANCE AND GERMANY STAR VICTORY MEDAL, THE MINESWEEPING 1945-1947, THE RNPS SIVER BADGE. HIS SERVICE RECORDS HIM AS A GUN LAYER HE SPOKE VERY HIGHLY OF HIS FELLOW SEAMEN AND THE SKIPPERS HE SERVED UNDER RIGHT UP TO HIS DEATH. HIS SERVICE RECORD INDICATES SERVICE ON MANY SHIPS MINESWEEPERS fUEL CARRIERS ETC MAYBE SOMEONE CAN REMEMBER HIM WE ARE SHORT ON PHOTOGRAPHS ALTHOUGH THANKFULLY WE HAVE A GREAT ONE OF HIM IN HIS ROYAL NAVY UNIFORM. HE HAD BLOND HAIR AND VERY BLUE EYES AND WAS NICKNAMED BLONDY. HE HAD A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOUR AND PREFERRED RECALLING THE FUNNY SIDE OF HIS SERVICE.

Comment:
From Darren frost, my father Raymond frost, served on mms177,mms1083 and greenfly between 1941-1945. Anyone who Knew him please get in touch. ps great web site.

Comment:
I served on HMT Butser 1942-44. I am looking for surviving shipmates as well as information on sister ship HMT Breden which went down off Morocco 8th February 1943. I understand there were only 2 survivors who were on watch on the bridge at the time.

Comment:
I am researching Sam Fred Mather who served on HMS Europa, Tormentor, Quebec Victory, Dinosaur, Pembroke and President between Sept 1940 & Feb 46. He started as a stoker and ended up a Lt(E). I would be pleased to hear from anyone who might remember him. (Good informative sight) Regards, John Bennett (Ex FAA).

Comment:
Magnificent Site. I wrote 2 books about the RN Section Belge. Belgian also served on MMS and other ships. My books tell the story of the men on board. I'm still looking for further information and pictures. I heard that MMS 191 still exists somewhere in UK. Can someone help me with this Then I can take pictures of this ship and show these to the veterans I know. If anyone is interested in my books just contact me.

Comment:
From Darren frost, my father Raymond frost, served on mms177,mms1083 and greenfly between 1941-1945. Anyone who Knew him please get in touch. ps great web site.

Comment:
Frank Cromer
Postboks 9137 Vegsund
6020 Ålesund,
Norway.
My uncle served and died on 'HMT KERRYADO' on 6th March 1941. F E (Frank) Treggiden Wireman. - his son Brian J Treggiden lives in London Any survivors, next of kin - please make contact
E mail resthointerior.frank@mimer.no

Comment:
My dad served with the RNPS Sparrows Nest Lowestoft. He was in HMT Herring sunk April 1943 HMS Southern Pride sunk June 1944 PL421192 Arromanches and HMS FIR to 1945. He would like to contact his best man if alive Richard Edward Godfrey From FLint North Wales. Please connact me on the e-mail above Thanks. Paul Layfield.

Comment:
Don Lawrence (ex Mechanic)
brought HMS Marmion out of reserve in Hull for trials a great little ship, did full power trials on her engines a real go-er does anybody have a photo of her? Good site among so many RN types

Comment:
What a brilliant site! I've been searching for info on the RNPS for quite sometime my father serverd in the RNPS from 1939 to 1945. He was incredably proud of the little ships that he served in. John William Smith or MUDGER to his mates was a 1st class able seaman serving in a number of ships HMS saltarelo the St Angelo ML1222 the Iron Duke ML 1022 and many more besides. He spent alot of the war in the Med. Does anyone remember him. I would love to here from anyone who served on these ships or has anyone got any pictures of the above that I could get copied Once again may I thank you for a superb site. well done!.....

Comment:
Hi there Looking for any information on HMS Marmion which was sunk during the 1st world war. I have a plaque a scrolls for A.B Thomas George Howard my great uncle and would like to add some more information and possibly a photograph of the ship. Hope you can help many thanks.....

Comment:
My father, Les (Leggle) Church from Luton, served in the RNPS from 1940 to Jan 1946. He was an able seaman but I don't know any of the names of his vessels. I believe he was stationed mainly on the Clyde, and it was interesting to read a bit about what he actually did, since he never really tells us much about his time in the RNPS. He was 17 in 1940 and if anyone remembers him I would be happy to pass on your details to him.....

Comment:
My wife's uncle was Jim Hallows form Clitheroe in Lancashire. He was a seaman (LT/JX 205745) who was killed on 19/9/42 on the converted trawler Alouette. We have no details of his service or the ship itself. Does anyone know the avenues that we could use to try e.g. to track his war record or to find out details of the ship? Norman Parr....

Comment:
What a lovely surprise to find this site. I am very new to surfing the web and found this site by pure chance. Imagine my delight to read all about an industry that I know so well I am the second daughter of Johnny Davies(Taffy) who sailed aboard The Ella Hewitt. My late granddad John Christopher Harrison(Jack) was also a fisherman, but I'm not sure which vessel he sailed with. My late Uncle Judder Harrison(George) also features on your site, I have had the privilege to read some of his poetry his poem about Harry Tates Navy is a master piece I have not found his poetry on here yet but I am a learner. I also write poetry and have written one called "A Decky's Daughter" which I sent to Doreen Lofthouse of Fishermans Friend. She enjoyed it and noted the contrast between the lifestyle of yesteryear and life at sea to-day. I was inspired by the bronze of the mum and child which now stands on Freeport to-day. I'll dig it out and maybe send it to your site.
Once more thankyou for this site it's full of memories and invaluable information
Dawn

Comment:
Superb site indeed. I'm looking for information about trawlers in the Narvik and Troms areas in April-June 1940 names units and proceedings . Four at least among 30 where scuttled during withdrawal and I've not even found their names. Maybe someone could help....

Comment:
I am the Grandson of the late Commander M.M. Bright D.S.C RN 1890-1965. My Grandfather served at the Lowerstoft Command from 1939-1941. During this time he was awarded the D.S.C. The family knew he won it for bravery. The story goes a mine sweeper was hit in an air raid. My Grandfather went aboard took charge and with the help of the crew, saved the ship from sinking. I would like very much to like to know the name of the ship he helped save that day. There is really very little infomation on the web about this event. To those of you who were in mine sweeping in WW1 and WW2 you are without doubt. The brave of the brave!

Comment:
I am trying to find out what ship my Dad sailed on all I know is that it was a BYMS (British Yard Mine Sweeper) and he was stationed at Sparrows Nest during the war, His name was John William Bristow but known as Jack and his
rank was Petty Officer (not sure).
I would really like to know some more about his Naval life but all of his papers went missing if anybody should read this and has any information I would be grateful if you could send me an email.
Regards
Paul Bristow!

Comment:
Hello A what a great site! I wonder if anyone could help. My father Roy Curly Smith served on the martello franclin the speranza. the wyoming .also byms 2001. beetween july 1941 to november1945. Would love any info on any of these boats. hoping Roy.

Christchurch Hello My name is Steve Wilson. My Grandfather Fred Goodwin was killed on 9th November 1941 whilst serving on a minesweeper named the Boy Andrew. I have tried in vain to get more details of the ship and the sinking. My Mum was orphaned at the age of 4 and was too young to really know what happened. During the period of the war their was so much loss of life that my grandmother like lots of mothers wives sisters daughters etc just had to carry the burden of the loss and never really spoke about it. If anyone has any information it would be much appreciated and it would help my Mum have some sort of closure on what really happened to her Dad.
Thank you Steve Wilson
*The Boy Andrew was a drifter originally called Sunburst and used by the RN during WW1. She was built by shipbuilding firm of John Lewis & Sons Ltd. The firm did not build any ships until 1917, when the First World War created a demand for new shipping. Sunburst was built in 1918, Yard No 63. In 1940 she was renamed Boy Andrew and used as an Admiralty Drifter . She was sunk in a Collision, Firth of Forth, East Scotland 9/11/41.
~ Please refer to my e-mail for suggestions on finding out more about the vessel.

Comment:
Very good website. My father served on the micky mouse minesweeper M191 GEORGE LEC0INTE during WWII. It is intresting to get some idea of the life in these cramped ships as I am a fishermen myself. I wander if there is still any former crewmates alive from the MMS M191? I know that the crew were mixed Scottish, English and Belgian Navy men?
email:asterias@skynet.be and asterias501@hotmail.com

Comment:
Excellent site. My grandfather Herbert Barlow was overjoyed when I showed him it. He served mostly on the Lord Beaconsfield and would like to find out any information on fellow crew members. He would also like to find Ernie Stannard with whom he trained at the Sparrows Nest in December 1940..

Comment:
Looking for any info about a whaler Klo my uncle served on her in the Med was this a RNPS ship? what was her name number etc? My uncle name is Richard Aitken dickie anybody serve with him any info would be appreciated Brilliant site very interesting keep up the excellent standard!
*HM Whaler Klo served in Med.,Tobruk, skippers name Lt Malcolm Christopher English RNVR,
*On the 26th March 1942.the destroyer HMS Jaguar. was escorting the RFA oiler Slavol, with supplies for Tobruk which were to be used to refuel the 5th Destroyer Flotilla. The destroyer was torpedoed and sunk by U652 (Kapitaneutnant Georg-Werner Fraatz) in position 31'53N-26'18E, north of Sollum/Sidi Barrani. Eight Officers and 45 Ratings were rescued by the anti-submarine whaler Klo but three Officers and 190 Ratings lost their lives. Not long afterwards U652 sank the Slavol.
*The majority of the crew of HM Whaler Klo would have almost certainly have been RNPS..

Comment: Just found this Web site I served on HMS Flying Wing an old Grimsby trawler built in 1902 sailing out of Lowestoft Also MMS 27, MMS 297 sailing out of Queenboro My Silver Badge has a place of honor .Now living in Niagara on the lake Canada (originally from Hull Yorkshire)
Best wishes from the R.C.N.A. Niagara Falls Canada Sid.Wheat L.wireman Chatham ratinge.

Comment: This is a brilliant web-site one of the best I have visted!
I am looking for any information about Lawerence Randall, Lol from Leicester trained at Glendower 1943, went onto D.E.M/S for a while also saw action in Burma and Pacific and we think D Day left the Navy in 1947, if anyone has any information please.

Comment: ref.to Ted Coe I also served on BYMS 2008 from june 43 to nov 45 and remember the events in Alf Forshaws web page,but not quite as he recalls,I have a diary of events in 45 if anyone is interested .
Peter Newing
6802 Lake Wash.Blvd.SE
Newcastle,WA.98056 USA

Comment: Has anyone any information about a Plymouth fishing boat lost at sea approx: 1957, with the loss of a father and two sons?

Comment: Hi what a wonderful site i've just found my grandfathers name on the debt of honour register
his name was ROBERT BULEY he served on the trawler AQUARIUS and was killed on board on the
25th February 1945 while in the humber estuary this is all i have to remember him by and would
love any pics or info on him.

Comment: My father served on HMS L74 Middleton 1944/45 & HMS Haire 1945/46 .Any information most welcome.

Comment: looking for ex crew of BYMS 2172.

Comment: Hi I was wondering if anyone remembers my Dad - Douglas (Dave) Rose who served on the minesweepers out of Poole in 1942. I'm sure he would like to hear from some of his old mates. Dad served on Ocean Village - Grimsby Trawler from Hull 1942 - 43, HMS Oronsay 1943 - 45, HMS Ronay T- Class minesweeper T375 - Falmouth/Plymouth and D Day, BYMS in Dover Falmouth/Plymouth 1945 - end of 49
Great website!
Thanks Sandie Rose .

Comment: I served as Wireman MS aboard MSML 217 based at Queenburgh Kent 194647 My other ships were MMS 1021 and ML 250 I wonder if any of the old crew are on line. Bill Smith.

Comment: I HOPE YOU CAN HELP. MY FATHERS NAME IS ARTHER JOHN JAMES POWELL HE SERVED IN THE ROYAL NAVY FROM 15 11 43 UNTIL HE WAS DEMOBED IN 1945. HIS NUMBER WAS J1054. HE SERVED ON WOODERN MINESWEEPERS BYMS 2354 & 2254. HE WAS SENT TO PICK IT UP FROM ORANGE TEXAS IT WAS DONATED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE USA TO THE PEOPLE OF GREAT BRITAIN. IF POSSIBLE WE WOULD LIKE TO FIND SOME OLD FRIENDS AND WOULD LOVE TO KNOW WHAT HAPPEND TO THE BOAT. HE HAS SOME PHOTOS OF THOSE DAYS AND HE CAN REMEMBER THEM AS IF IT WAS YESTERDAY. PLEASE IF SOMEONE CAN HELP ME FIND THEM IF POSSIBLE. HE IS NOW 80 YEARS OLD THIS YEAR AND AS GOOD HEALTHWISE AS HE POSSIBLE COULD BE. THANKS FOR BEING THERE

Comment: ANYBODY OUT THERE SERVE ON HMT KINGSTON ANDALUSITE OR HMS SCALPAY DURING 1942-1945? IF SO IT WOULD BE GREAT TO HEAR FROM YOU.- TOM TOPPING (BUNTS).

Comment: Does anybody remember my Dad? Wilfred Eric Crook from Ryhall in Rutland All I know is that he was a signalman initially based on a fort in the Solent then on minesweepers at Lowerstoft. I also believe that he spent some time in Aden. Any information would be much appreciated. Steve.

Comment: From the very informative RNPSA Newsletter I obtained your web address. Congratulations to the author of the site. As a telegraphist I spent time aboard the Stella Polaris which was in the same flotilla as the Wastwater as one of your correspondents was enquiring about also on the HMS Eday a training minesweeper ship of the 40th MS flotilla. Any old shipmates out there particularly Malcolm Hoy Signalman who I understand went to the land of Oz.

Comment: Hello Nick. I am a veteran of the R N P S ,my service No LT/ KX 501492 from 1943 to 1946 Stoker 1st class.Ship was H M S Popinjay Boom patrol on the Firth of Forth from Granton,also on M M S Minesweeper and M F V 951, I met up with some very nice chaps, I am using my sons e-mail address I know it is along time ago but I am sure some of the lads are still about,but we had small crews on board .My e-mail address is: cdturvey@tesco.net It was nice to see your web site VERY GOOD reading.I have a book MINESWEEPER ,The Role of the Motor Minesweeper in World War 2 By Michael J. Melvin BEM, lots of info on the MMS. Good luck with your Web Site, nice to be able to make contact with you. I wish you the best of luck
Sid Turvey.

Comment: I am currently researching the war service of my great uncle Able Seaman Victor Leonard Foster R.N. He served at HMS Royal Arthur HMS Pembroke HMS Trelawney aboard the V class destroyer HMS Volunteer including convoy PQ16 and the Landing Ship Tank HMLST 418. He was lost on the 418 when it was sunk by U-230 on 16 02 1944. I would like to know if anyone can supply me with any information regarding HMS Trelawney which was home to a variety of little ships Sincerely Mark Gamble markg@moke9.freeserve.co.uk

Comment: Dave Caw Best Wishes to Hedley Crago & Arthur Briggs both of Watford Branch RNA.

Comment: VERY good site . My grandfather served upon the Trawler H.M.S ALMOND Which sunk on the 2nd feb 1941 his name was David Hepburn Burnett.

Comment: GEORGE F BROWN LT/KX737049 SERVED FROM DEC 1944 TO JAN 1948.

Comment: I served on HM Tiger Grimsby 1940-1941 HMT Hazel Iceland 1942-1943 HMT Saurion Invergordon 1943 HMT Kingscourt Dover 1944 course POPSGI 1944-1946.

Comment: Great site keep up the good work. My father Noel Wardle served on mfv1043 mm4 ww2 sends his regards to all in the RNPS.

Comment: As an RNPS veteran serving from 1939 to 1945 I was pleased to find your very interesting web site. I was a signalman on board CLYTHNESS TRAWLER for over 3 years based at Dover. An account of my experiences was published in the Winter 1985 edition of Sea Classic International entitled TRAWLER AT WAR which included a colour print of CLYTHNESS detonating a magnetic mine. I was 21 years old when I had painted it. If you are interested in displaying the story on your web site please contact me with information on personal photos required and postal address to forward material. .

Comment: I was sent to Canada to pick up a T.Class Trawler The Hms Anticosti and remained there based at Halifax I wonder if their are any ex crew members that remember me I also served on a Algerine minesweeper after the war HMS Marmion based at Granton Scotland. would be great to hear from anyone from the two ships.

Comment: Fantastic! Always interested in Pussers affairs. Did my Nat.Serv. in D of Y. then joined R.N.Z.N. Re- commissioned Loch Katrine to Rotoiti and have settled in N.Z. since 1949. Can hardly believe that I found a reference to my brothers sweeper Saphire in Ceylon 1941 until 1944 .GREAT STUFF Cheers!

Comment: IHI My dad also served on converted trawlers for mine sweeping duties during ww2 I have his war record which is hand written making it hard to decipher and various photos. I am new to this and was hoping you might be able to supply me with some links as I am finding it hard to trace these small converted boats. My dad Ronald Crowe passed away in 70s and I am hoping I can trace his wartime mates or relations of+ to get more info on his wartime duties friends and more photo if possible. port+division------lowestoft ganges europa other entries mainly NILE with other names in brakets+ mosquito sphinx mms99...etc
Many thanks David Crowe

Comment: I served in the RNPS from Apr 43 until Mar 46 as a signalman Served on Sylvana MMS 37 and Milford Prince. Anyone out there?

Comment: Do any Shipmates remember the Holman projector?
Tom Calder

Comment: Hi all Glad to have found this site My father served in Minesweepers trawlers His name is Alfred W Stimpson he was stationed at Lowestoft The Firth and Malta. I dont know much about dads time in the service I do know that he served aboard HMT STELLA CANOPUS and that he was a PO or CPO Stoker Engineroom he was in the channel at the time of Dunkirk but in which ship I dont know He also received a Mention in Despatches but for what and where I have no idea. He livedin Ramsgate unfortunately he is now in a Nursing home in the later stages of Alzheimers. He would of liked this site. Any info from old shipmates or anything else very welcome and appreciated Cheers Brian

Comment: Very nice pages! All submarines are brothers of the heart. Kind Regards Joop Subvet Retired. http www.hrmspotvis.com

Comment: Seeking infomation about H.M Yacht Torrent. My grandfather was lost when this vessel was mined on the 6th April 1941. He was Seaman JOHN RICHARD HILL LT/5766D.
So far all I have found is his record within the Commonwealth War Graves site and the one line contained in the "British Vessels Lost at Sea" site.
Fiona Sendalls.

Comment: This is a fabulous site not only for the old comrades but for the sons and daughters of those who served at Sparrows Nest. (now we know what our mums and dads got up to!) My Mother was a Wren at Sparrows Nest in 1944 and has just given me a written memoir of her time there, which I intend to submit for the Archives.

Comment: My father, Harry Tatchell, survived the sinking of HMT Lord Stonehaven in 1942. This week he has shown me several photos of the ship. He later served on BYMS 2171 of which he also has a photo. He also has 2 photos of the funeral procession of BYMS 2077 which was sunk in the Gulf of Corinth.
I have tried to contact Mrs A Williams (Guestbook 24th March 2000) without success?
* I can't seem to be able to contact Mrs A Williams either so perhaps she could drop me a line?

Comment: Great stuff! .I`m delighted. You can have my tot any day.
Robert Fulthorpe

Comment: MY FATHER WILL BE SO PLEASED THAT I HAVE FOUND THIS SITE BUT UNFORTUNATELY HE IS VERY ILL AT THE MOMENT. MY FATHER'S NAME IS BOB DRISCOLL AND HE SERVED ON MINE SWEEPING TRAWLERS DURING THE WAR AND ALTHOUGH VERY ILL AT THE MOMENT, HE HAS ASKED IF THERE ARE ANY SHIPMATES FROM 'THE TRANIO' OR 'THE RAYMONT' WHICH OPERATED OUT OF HARWICH AND LOWERSTOFT TO GET IN TOUCH AS IT SEEMS MY DAD ONLY HAS A SHORT TIME LEFT. IF YOU KNEW HIM OR HIS SHIPS PLEASE E-MAIL ME WITH ANYTHING YOU CAN AS I KNOW THAT ANY NEWS WOULD BE A LARGE BOOST FOR HIM AT THIS TIME. HE SPEAKS MORE ABOUT THE WAR NOW THAN I HAVE HEARD HIM SPEAK IN SIXTY YEARS SO IF YOU KNOW ANY THING OR HAVE ANY PHOTOS PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. PLEASE DON'T DELAY AS TIME IS SHORT.BEST WISHES AND OUR THANKS TO YOU ALL..

Comment: I'm Ted Coe and would like to know if there are any other shipmates out there who I served with on BYMS 2008 between 1942 and late 44 early 45 as a Stoker lst Class. I remember all of the events on the Alf Forshaw web page but unfortunatly not Alf. Excellent information on the site.

Comment: As an RNPS veteran serving from 1939 to 1945 I was pleased to find your very interesting web site. I was a signalman on board CLYTHNESS TRAWLER for over 3 years based at Dover. An account of my experiences was published in the Winter 1985 edition of Sea Classic International entitled TRAWLER AT WAR which included a colour print of CLYTHNESS detonating a magnetic mine. I was 21 years old when I had painted it. If you are interested in displaying the story on your web site please contact me with information on personal photos required and postal address to forward material.

Comment: My late father George Earl served as chief petty officer and chief engineer on vessels Benbecula and the Lord Hailsham these are just two of the vessels that I know of anyone who sailed with him I would like to hear from them. A great website.

Comment: Hello thanks to your site I found an article on my dads ship the HMS Cocker..there were only a few who survived the sinking..would love to hear from others..thanks..keep up the good work.

Comment: Greetings Nick Nice to see the rememberance Page Thanks for the email. will tell the lads Regards Steve Royal Naval Patrol Service Veterans.

Comment: I am trying to find out the circumstances behind the loss of HMT Manor on the 9th july 1942. My great uncle Eddie Harvey was lost on that date. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Comment: Steph a lovely person and a friend gave me the link. I am a retired Engineer Lieutenant having served thirty years from Artificer Apprentice at fifteen then onwards and slightly upwards. Your site is great and I hope to see more on it in due course. Thank goodness for the Charlie Noble and Golden Rivet. Good luck Phil Thompson.

Comment: Hello..I am looking for info on the HMS Cocker. My dad Austin Rumbolt served on this ship and was one of the men who survived the sinking as is described so well by Mr. Male on your site.I would very much like to find crew names..photo etc..can you direct me to some site? Thank you and keep up the good work on your site!!..Daniel Rumbolt
*I hope giving you Bertie Male's contact was of help. A photograph of HMS Cocker appears with Bertie's story.

Comment: The last vessel I was on was the Athlone Castle bound from Sydney Australia to the U.K. I served in the R.N. as a convoy signalman. CJX638712. Would like to hear from any other East Coast convoy signalmen. Enjoyed reading the website.uk

Comment: Hello to all who know me from the past. Its great to have the facility like this these days to keep in touch with people from the old days and It's a minefield of information to all concerned. I wish I had this facility at home but I'm using a friends computer. If anybody wants to e-mail me please send it via:
michael@linsellm.freeserve.co.uk

Comment: Well done! I am submitting request for info at harrytates@hotmail.com.

Comment: VERY GOOD LETS HAVE MORE!.

Comment: My father Alan Griffths served on the Tree Class Trawler HMS Deodar as a gunner from late 1940 until mid 1943. He later served on HDML 1272 in the Indian Ocean. I would like to hear from anyone who remembers him or served on either vessel. I am please to say he still alive and well and lives in Darlaston in the West Midlands. His brother Tom also served in the RN on HMS Spark during World War two.

Comment: G'Day from W.A. As a widow of a RNPS man I was more than pleased to discover your web site. He joined in 1942 and was de-mobbed in 1946. He served out of Grimsby I think. His name was Wallie (Steve-Steamboat) Rolls and he came from Penge, S.E.20. On his papers he has several ships, talked alot about the "Monimia" also was in a landing party I think went to Burma, served with the Ghurkha's. I have his flash a leaping black panther. In a photo I can see it on the sleaves of his mates. If only we (the families) had got them to talk more of their exploits. His silver badge was stolen in a home robbery but I managed to get a "replica" from England.
Thank you so much for the great site. How much closer it brings to-gether people like me who can't find out enough about the war, and the things that happened to our beloved partners. Regards June Rolls.-

Comment: 1943-1944 served in the Torpedo Division at HMS Quebec at Inverary Combined Operations Camp. My late wife was a Wren Torpedowoman and billeted in Dalchenna House the Wrennery. Would like any info from other ex-wrens of that period who knew her as Sheila Hillcoat. Would also like any photos of the camp around 1943. I was cinema projectionist at the base camp for a while.

Comment: I have just been looking in your web page in Netscape where I put a comment in about my time on HMS MMS 559 I found a man who was on that ship and tried to send him a E Mail but it got rejected it may be becourse I use Express now could you please tell me his adress said he was a member of RNPS all I have is his name Harry Batty and the E mail adress as given is william@wfaulks.co.uk I was loaned as a Wireman from Chatham but after having a lot of damage to our stern by a mine I was sent back to general service and spent the war in the far east what a surprise I had when I saw a man who was on the hope you find out the proper address for me Thank you Yours Truly A.D.Smith.
*Glad I was able to help you Arthur, and I hope you are now finally in contact with Harry.

Comment: My dad was on a minesweeper in World War 2. Thats the only information I have. His name was John Moseley he was known as Jack he came from Wednesbury in the West Midlands. If the name rings a bell with anyone please could they e-mail me I am desperate to find out which ship he served on etc. Thank you in hope.

Comment: I was at hms ganges in 1957 and spent 15 months there traning as a bunting tosser. When I left I was drafted to hms albion aircraft carrier.

Comment: Looking for ex crew members/familys off the BYMS 72 (J872) 2072.The 72 was hit by a glider bomb off Alinda Bay Leros on the 11/11/43 and then captured on the 12/11/43 off Kolymnos in the Aegeon. Weissenborn was the German commander and he still has the flag off the 72. 6 crew killed and then the injured put ashore in Leros captured . Weissenborn then captured 14 crew and 2 officers by telling them in perfect English to follow him and led them to 2 E.boats However three swam ashore to Kolymnos, Yuill (stoker) and Crighton (wireman) and made it back to Alexandria, but Mariner(seaman) had to be left on the island as he had bullets in both legs! Any information would be appreciated. Regards "Derek J Sullivan"--

Comment: All I am the grandson of Seaman LT/JX257454 John Murray who died when HMT Lord Stonehaven was sunk off Eddystone on 2nd October 1942. I would like to contact any of those who served with him (or their relatives), and also any information about the vessel and the action in which she was lost. I have a photograph which may be that of the crew which may be of interest. Regards David Pitt,

Comment: LOOKING FORWARD TO THE PROPOSED SECTION ON BYMS. EX 2037 TRIESTE

Comment: All ex B.Y.M.S. crews. If you want information on Byms world wide go to http:www.westerhuis.myweb.nl/History of the/RNx.htm . I served on M.M.S 48 and am a survivor from B.Y.M.S. 2053 sunk on April 28th,1945 off Porto Corsini Italy. Westerhuis is a Dutchman with a very interesting website .He contacted me and I sent him pictures of B.Y.M.S 2053 going down. Allan Lees PO/JX 360532 Sig.T.O.

Comment: Informative moving and throroughly interesting. I did not realise that the little silver badge of my fathers was so precious. Nor did I realise that minsweepers were originally trawlers. My father described his first trip to Scapa Flow on a trawler that had one sten gun mounted on the bow of the trawler and the crew armed with wooden rifles. He was sent to the Mediterranean and was in north Africa and Italy.

Great site.Anyone remember my dad, Engineman Joseph Hobbs,served in H.M.Drifter "Mare"at Lowestoft,Harwich and Felixstowe,1939-41-several trips to Dunkirk,He later was chief of H.M.T."Hatsuse" (Portsmouth)he died coming home on leave,at Preston station en route to Fleetwood March 8th 1942 -Was
chief out of F.D. pre-war with Cevic St.T.Co.He was an Irishman( also served W.W.1 Royal Navy )

Comment: One of my father's brothers a trawlerman from Aberdeen served in the Naval Reserve. One of his other brothers continued to fish as skipper of a trawler out of Aberdeen. I found the story of Harry Tate's Navy fascinating. Well done. Thanks.

Comment: I joined the Royal Navy at Chatham 1940 after a spell in the RN because I was a wireman L C and they were building MMS Ships. After very short course was sent to Frasabough where the M.M.S.559 was being built.After fitting out we sailed to Queenboro and sweeped out to harwich then back to dover or there abouts. The one thing I will never forget we had men from Newfounland. My home was London we went to sea four nights leave for all night was given for each watch being two so I had a nights leave every four but those Nefie boys took my watch with a fiddle at the railway station I got home every four nights and that was during the blitz on london. We then had a bit of trouble with a mine I was given some leave and sent out east for the remainder of the war those Newfounland boys were the best if any of them happen to read this, I will never forget what they did for me.
I remain Yours truly Arthur Smiffie

Comment: Thanks for all the info on convoy trawlers. I've just started a scale model of H.M.S. Royol Marine and the photos and back ground came in very handy in making sure I do her justice ..

Comment: I am trying to find any information about my Grandad and my great uncle both lost in 1942. Skipper LT ARTHUR BAKER was bound for America to pick up a minesweeper when his troopship H.M.S.CANADA was torpeedoed September 24th I have looked on the navy net but can find no trace. Stoker Henry James Jerome was on H.M.S.LAERTES when she was sunk just outside Freetown July 25th. Any help or information would be apprieciated as the Navy have only given our family the barest details. It was a very sad loss for my Family as they were the only men of their generation.

Comment: Very interesting. The trawler shown of the opening page looks very much like HMT St.Elstan on which I served. Is it? Walter Clark*
* Actually Walter, the A/S Trawler in question is HMS Pollock

Comment: Pleased to find this site........My Father was a Trawlerman from Grimsby.....He was in the Northern Chief.........on patrol to Russia with the convoys. I have been to Lowestoft and been in the Museum there......I will go back again. J R Cobb

Comment: What a great site. I joined the RN at Portsmouth in 1942 was transfered to the RNPS on graduation. What a happy day! I served on ML1075 in Edinbourgh MMS 1021 out of Lowestoft MFV105 along with 4 other boats that we took to Singapore. MFV1130 in Ceylon. Would like to hear from any old shipmates.