Hi Nick
The following was in a Greek English newspaper yesterday Memorial at sea:
A memorial service for the 21 British seamen killed on the minesweeper BIMS 2077, which was blown apart in October 25, 1944 during an attempt to collect mines left behind by Nazi forces, is to take place at 11 a.m. today near the port of Rio, where the explosion occurred. The service has been organized by the three children of British engineer James Mackie, one of the minesweeper¹s crew.
Do you have any contact with the Mackie family? Only I found over 100 photographs of the launching of several different BYMS including the 77, and the 77 did have the highest loss off life of all the BYMS, I would only be to pleased to supply a copy photograph
Regards Derek Sullivan (BYMS 72)

We run a village website for Slaidburn in Lancashire at www.slaidburn.org.uk . We recently came across a certificate from "Warship Week" March 1942 which showed that the Parish of Slaidburn had adopted "HMS Brontes". We have found out that HMS Brontes was an ASW Trawler. Can anyone tell us more about the ship and her war service? Does anyone remember serving aboard her?
David & Cathryn Higham

Anyone knowing John Elliott, a Canadian, who served onboard HMS Richard Crofts, minesweeper, out of Lowestoft would appreciate being contacted by any of his old ship-mates.He can be contacted at john.elliott@ns.sympatico.ca.
Ron Elliott CD. RCN (Ret'd)

King Sol (A/S trawler) had a full-size upright piano on the seamen's messdeck (c.1942) I played it frequently at slightly noisy knees-ups at the Wallasey Dock when we were lying alongside. The questions are: 1) how the hell did it get down there?, 2). where did it come from? and 3) whatever happened to it? King Sol survived the war. See if any ex-Sparrows can shed any light on this. Thanks Peter Deacon

Dear Nick,I am looking for any information on my father,service number WS2963 who served on various minesweepers and trawlers in WW11.I know he served as a skipper from 02/09/1939-31/12/1943 and Acting Skipper Lieutenant from 01/01/1944-07/06/1946 and he served on the following ships:HMT Golden News (25/11/39-05/06/40), HMT Roger Juliette (08/02/41-07/12/41), HMT John Willmont (12/01/42-16/11/42), HMT Sea Holly (17/11/42-21/02/43),HMT William Stevens (22/02/43-29/08/43),HMS MMS 11 (01/01/4402/09/45),HMS MMS 1064 (28/09/45-07/06/46).Any information on either my father or any of the ships he served on would be much appreciated

Dear Nick: I was a Tel in the RCNVR. Early Dec 42, I was drafted to HMS Wastwater in Halifax, NS, to replace a British Tel off with appendicitis. We left immediately escorting HMS Lord Kelvin to repair the Trans-Atlantic cable. Gone for 47 days. I am trying to locate a crew member during this time frame who can confirm my service aboard this Trawler, as same has been removed from my War Records for some reason. Maurice Hampson navalmail@shaw.ca

My grandmother lived in Lowestoft all her life and died in 1985 she took with her the identity of my grandfather. She did leave some love letters from a man called Vincent that we assume is my grandfather there is no insight into who this man was or where he came from but he was V. W. Clarke. Stoker 1st Class LT/Kx167002 and served on HMML.211
If anyone has information on Vincent or Motor Launch HMML.211 Please contact me.
Thank you. Ali

Dear Sirs
I am trying to trace any possible survivors who may have known my Father, William John Wallace (Bill) - who was in the Royal Naval Patrol Service, Lowestoft during WW2. His name is the Royal Naval Memorial at Lowestoft. His number was KX 130197.
The Fratton was sunk in the Seine Bay on 18th August 1944 and I have only just found out that there were around 40 survivors. Also, I was not aware that there is a cemetery in Ryes, France where two of the ratings have been buried plus a number of 'Known only to God.'
I have been very lucky in that I have found a man, Mr. Cyril S. Ford, who was a survivor on the Fratton and would very much like to know if there is anyone else who may have served on the Fratton or may have known my father as he was based up in Lowestoft.
I can be contacted on e-mail at: penticknap@btconnect.com
Thank you in anticipation.
Valerie Crisp (nee Wallace).

Hi my father was Herbert Leslie Adams first mate on the trawler S T Syrian built in Grimsby I think named Thacher I am looking for photo of this vessale and anyone who may have know my dad he died at the age of 27 in Iceland. Any information would be greatly appreciated. He had a dad ( George Adams) Lord Davidson Trawler ?, and brother fisherman also. Looking for family and my past
Thank you Yvonne Connors yorkie@elko.net

My grandfather the late Jack Page was lost when HMS Laertes was torpedoed off west Africa 25th July 1942. Information on survivors and more details of the incident are sparse, but I know that some crew survived, including Canadian servicemen from New Foundland. If anyone has any information of Jack, or any surviving crew members, I'd be grateful to hear from them.
Regards.
Iain Page

My late father Thomas Stainthorpe, Steward LT/JX 25555 during WW2 served on board the minesweepers I believe from Lowestoft. The one boat he kept mentioning was HMT LOMBARD. Does anyone know anything about her ?. Since finding this site I now know what the silver badge is that he left. But pride of place in my home goes to the framed NORE GENERAL ORDERS, Special Order Of The Day Dated 6-3-42 page 26.
This mentions the bravery of my Father and others whilst on minesweeping operations, they are
Lieutenant Com. Roger Frederick R.N. ; Skipper Philip Kay, D.S.C. R.N.R.; Temp. Lieut. John Glendenning Paterson R.N.V.R.; Arthur Marcus Chislett, Ordinary Seaman LT/LX 230110,; during this time they were under fire from enemy aircraft and one ship was so seriousley damaged that it eventually sank. On board this ship were and also mentioned on the orders were John Hampden Shaw, Telegraphist P/WRX 523, ; & the Captain of the Machine gun John Campbell Peden, Seaman LT/JX 240142. Signed; Vice-Admiral, Comm.-in Chief.
Together with my sister & brother we would love to hear from anyone who recognises any of the above or knows about HMT LOMBARD as we have several photos. of my father on board with different mates & one of a ships crew taken on I believe a quayside all in smart uniform. These we will send later.
p.s. If it helps on board at the time of the attack and mentioned were a non-commisioned officer and five ranks of the Gloucestershire Regiment.
Many thanks Anthony B. Stainthorpe.

My Dad- Percy (Bob) Spurway, served on the Pembroke, Northern Wave, Bacchante, Stafnes, Europa, Paris, Pollux, Artic Explorer, Kongoni, Assegai, Stormwract, Lord Irwin, Lord Lloyd and the Lacennia (Colonsay) out of the Sparrows Nest, Lowestoft during WW2. He was a Chief Engineer.
Regards to all.
Joan Lobban

I'M DOING SOME RESEARCH FOR FAMILY FRIEND PLEASE COULD ANYBODY CONTACT ME IF THEY HAVE ANY INFORMATION ON THE FOLLOWING ITEMS
MR STANLEY TYE KNOWN AS STAN SERVICE NUMBER JX 259314
MR J A FRENCH SERVICE NUMBER CMX 86689
MR R C PULLIN SERVICE NUMBER PJX 259475
ALL TRAINING AT HMS GANGES SHOTLEY IN MARCH 1941
ALSO
HMS EUROPA -SERVICE BASE IN LOWESTOFT FROM MAY 1941,SEPTEMBER 1941 AUGUST 1942
HMS WILDFIRE-BASED IN SHEERNESS FROM 24TH JUNE 1941
HMS BADGER (FLANDRE) HARWICH 9TH NOVEMBER 1941
HMS BADGER (LIBERATOR) HARWICH 11TH DECEMBER 1941
HMS BADGER (FRANC TIREUR) HARWICH 4TH OCTOBER 1942 TILL 25TH SEPTEMBER 1943

I'M DOING SOME RESEARCH FOR FAMILY FRIEND PLEASE COULD ANYBODY CONTACT ME IF THEY HAVE ANY INFORMATION ON THE FOLLOWING ITEMS
MR STANLEY TYE KNOWN AS STAN SERVICE NUMBER JX 259314
MR J A FRENCH SERVICE NUMBER CMX 86689
MR R C PULLIN SERVICE NUMBER PJX 259475
ALL TRAINING AT HMS GANGES SHOTLEY IN MARCH 1941
ALSO
HMS EUROPA -SERVICE BASE IN LOWESTOFT FROM MAY 1941,SEPTEMBER 1941 AUGUST 1942
HMS WILDFIRE-BASED IN SHEERNESS FROM 24TH JUNE 1941
HMS BADGER (FLANDRE) HARWICH 9TH NOVEMBER 1941
HMS BADGER (LIBERATOR) HARWICH 11TH DECEMBER 1941
HMS BADGER (FRANC TIREUR) HARWICH 4TH OCTOBER 1942 TILL 25TH SEPTEMBER 1943

DEAR SIR.
I AM TRYING TO SEE IF ANY ONE REMEMBERS A FREDRICK EWBANK FRY HE WAS ON MINESWEEPERS. HE WAS A FRIST CLASS STOKER KX120251 ON H M S PEMBROKE, TOWER ROSEMOND AND ROYAL ARTHUR IT WOULD BE NICE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE THAT KNEW HIM IT WOULD ALSO BE NICE TO NO WERE THE SHIPS WENT YOURS SINSRELY JUNE TERRY

My Dad, Roy Huxley, served as wireless telegraphist on Arctic Explorer for part of his wartime service. He would be delighted to hear from shipmates, or anyone with news/anecdotes. Please contact him through me:
gvarndell@thebritishmuseum.ac.uk
Gill Varndell

Hi,
I am trying to find out, on behalf of my Mother Kath Mellors, how and where her Uncle, Seaman William Henry Peak LT/X 20131A RNRP (known as Harry) died on the 10th May 1940 in Norway.
I have searched his name on the CWGC website and he is listed at the Lowestoft Naval Memorial, does this mean he was buried at sea? or could he have been buried at a war grave at Skolund in Norway? He died after being shot by enemy gunfire aboard the RNR Trawler Northern Spray and was then transferred to the 'Resolution', flagship of the FOIC Narvik.
The reason why I am querying this is because the following information appears in the book called 'Trawlers Go To War' (written by Paul Lund and Harry Ludlam published by W Foulsham ISBN 0-572-00768-X) it states that "poor Harry Peak died after having his leg amputated and he was buried in a civil ceremony at Skolund. Does this civil ceremony mean on board the ship Resloution, resulting in a burial at sea, or is there an actual grave that my Mother can visit in Skolund Norway or anywhere in Norway? We a presuming that a Civil Ceremony at Skolund would indicate a land burial.
I would appreciate any help that you can give me, as my Mother would like to travel to Norway to visit his grave if it exists, but would like concrete evidence that a grave is there before she makes arrangements.
Please could you Cc the reply to my home address which is nickmellors@beeb.net
Many thanks in advance.
*All the names on the memorial usually indicate that these servicemen 'have no grave but the sea'. However, I recommend that you contact Mr Leo Whisstock, RNPS Association email : rnpsa@theharbour.fsbusiness.co.uk who may have further details. I would also suggest that you contact the CWGC.
I'm aware of the incident at Narvik covered in TGTW as I have the book and there is a mention in Sid Kerslake's book 'Coxwain Of The Northern Convoys' (ISBN 0-7183-0508-6) regarding Harry Peake (note spelling?) which unfortunately doesn't throw any more light on any burial at sea or otherwise.

Stoker mechanic Ted Roberts Homebase, St. Lukes, Lowestoft.
LT KX 726300 - Served on H.M.S. Swiftwing. Base, Longhope, Orkney. Also Pireus, Greece on H.D.M.L. 1028 Also Triest, Italy on B.Y.M.S. 3-149.
Swept the MED Fleet out of Corfu channel where two destroyers were mined (Volage and Sumeraz) with the loss of 43 lives.
Also served on "Laurana", Italian yacht, Malta.
I wonder if "CHAD" is still around. He joined the New Zealand Navy after Demob from "Harry Tates"
He was on B.Y.M.S. 3-149
SIPPERS TO ALL THE IRON MEN OF THE WOODEN SHIPS FROM "SCOUSELAND" - Would like to hear from any old shipmates!

Hi there,
Im just wondering if you have any information on the above for my grandfather who served on the minesweeper on 1943-1944.
Id also be interested in the minesweeping trawler ALAFOSS (1944-1945) which my grandad also served on.
If you have any information or pictures please email me at karentaylor66@hotmail.com
Yours sincerely
Karen

To all concerned, A hand bag was purchased in Stafford, and in it was found an RNPS Association name badge with "RON COOK" engraved on it. It was handed to me at our RNA meeting to try to locate it's owner and to return the same. If any one can claim it or give me information on it's owner please contact me at stfr@o-turner.freeserve.co.uk

I am helping a friend research his Father's ("Jim" White) service before and during WW2. His first command was a "Strath" class steam trawler (for which we seek any plans/pictures/information as what we have found to date is contradictory. Company "Funnel" colours and logos would be particularly welcome) sailing out of Aberdeen in competition with his brother "Lucky Fred".
His war was spent minesweeping along the East coast, stationed mostly in Sheerness, and he was highly decorated for his contribution.
Please reply to me for forwarding as I am in touch with old stagers volunteer helpers at the National Fisheries Heritage Museum in Grimsby who also served in minesweepers out of Sheerness, being awarded their silver clasp.
Regards, Bernard Pike

Hello,
I am trying to gather some information on my late father Roland Wilford. He was a very young Naval Reservist radio operator on HMT MACOLITE that operated from Harwich. MALACOLITE was I think one of the boats that searched for survivors when the SIMON BOLIVAR was sunk approaching Harwich in late 1939. I would be grateful for any information
Thankyou, Mike Wilford.

Hello,
I am writing to you in the hope you may be able to help me. My Grandfather was engineman on board when it was attacked and sunk by E-boats in English Channel in 1942. I am trying to find out if all hands were lost, and also trying to find a picture of the boat itself.
If you could please point me in the right direction to gather more information I would greatly appreciate it.
Regards
Denise

I wish to find out more on the crew of the Cap D'antifer which sank on 13 February 1944, as next year is the 60 Th. anniversary.
My Great Uncle was lost on the terrible day, I have only managed to find out of one other ships crew on the internet.
I know my uncle Richard Smith, had swopped with another MIlford Haven lad to do his trip, so that the other lad could come home to see his mum, that person is still alive and living in Milford, but, talking to my family members, the gentleman concerned, will not talk about it, and I respected the gentleman's wish.
If anyone has a list of the crew, ones that were lost and ones on furlough, or you have a relative that was lost that day, Please get in touch, as on 13 Feb. 2004, i will be placing a wreath in memory of my Uncle and wish to include on the card the names of the other crew members.
Beverley Jenkins CPO (SCC)

Hello
I am looking for information on the following ships Beaver(Rolls Royce) +Coronsay on which my father served during WW2 also interested in locating a silver as/ms pin and establishing meaning of arm badges as follows gold propellor , redpropelor + star and cannon+ red star.
Thank for any help
Jim Mccoy

My father (Leslie Craib Calder born Tranmere, living Scunthorpe during the war) volunteered for the Royal Navy in Dec. 1942. I believe that all/most? of the ships that he served in were trawlers. His service certificate gives his Port Division as Rosyth(Rooke).
From Feb. 1942 until July 1946 he served on the following ships:- Duke, Rooke, Night Rider, Eland, Melampus, Leonidas, Cormorant, Boscawen , Victory iii. Pembroke iv.
Most of these ships have the name of a "tender" after them in brackets. These include Bardell, Conisboro and Barora.
Does anybody have any knowledge of these ships and what does "tender" indicate? I would be interested in what type of vessels these were, where they served during the war, photographs etc. I believe for a period of the war some of these vessels were active along the west coast of Africa.
Also anybody who might have served with my father on these ships. He was a stoker for the period of the war.
Any information no matter how little would be very much appreciated. Thanks to you all, Bob Calder.

Hello,
On behalf of my father I am trying to trace an Arthur PUTTOCK (born about 1921) who lodged with my grandparents George & Elsie GUYMER at Osbourne Street, Lowestoft from about 1939 - 1941
Yours Bernie Guymer

Hello,
My father’s brother Stan Thompson service number C/JX 195514, HMML 1039 died on 20th June 1942. My father has only recently discovered the details and dates from the Imperial War Museum in Manchester. He would love to know more, if there is anyone out there who knew Stan or the circumstances around HMML 1039 in June 1942, my father would be delighted.
Thank you in hope.
Christine

To Chris and Dave Pennell
Have received your info on Dad's old vessel Arctic Hunter but cannot reach you on your website. Would like to thank you for info.
Regards
Les Emery ( Australia ) lsee@bigpond.com

I am trying to locate shipmates from 1943 to 1945 minesweeping out of Plymouth, Falmouth etc.I was one of three Englishmen crew members of the LL minesweeper RNMS BREVIK there were four others in the flotilla.GRIMSTAD, MANDAL<VARDO & HARSTAD>the Harstad was torpedoed in the English Channel off Plymouth, the MANDAL hit some rocks off the south coast of Norway,she was on her way home some time after VE day.The BREVIK< GRIMSTAD &VARDO all made it back to OSLO.I would like to get it in touch with any still existing crew members.; I was the Wirerman MS aboard the BREVIK for three years. Thank you
kenbunting@blueyonder.co.uk

Please help
My Uncle served on a Minesweeper in the Second World War. His name and rank are , Petty Officer Harry Rudd, or Chief Petty Officer Harry Rudd, his ship was sank and he was taken Prisoner by the Italians, where he was imprisoned i have no idea but would love to know, also what the name of the ship he was on and how it was sank, if any person out there can help i would love to know, thanks to you all
Josh

Hi Nick,
I am the diver in Gibraltar who thinks he has located the remains of HMT Erin & Stella Sirius, following 4 years of diving & research. I would be interested to hear from anyone who has knowledge of any of the above vessels, all of whom served with the 7th A/S group in Gibraltar during WWII.
I look forward to any replies.
Phil Smith .

Any one with info about the Valeta or BYMS 2069.
My farther William Edwards served on both of the above but I have been unable to find anything about either.

Came across this wonderful site whilst trying to find info on my maternal Grandfather, who died when my mother was only 2. My Grandfather was Charles Scott Merriman, LT/KX110056, and listed on the Commonwealth Wargraves Comission site as an engineman. His boat, HM Trawler Alberic, was rammed and sunk, by HMS St Albans on the 3rd May 1941, AFAIK, with loss of all souls.
If anyone can point me in the right direction, regarding the career of the Alberic and her crew, and the events surrounding her loss, I would be most greatful.
If any surving members of the RNPS worked with or knew C.S. Merriman have any info, stories etc, please feel free to contact me via this email address.
TIA Pat

Please, does anyone out there have any information at all on the fate of trawler HMS Hawthorn, its fitting out was partially funded by our local community (Shotton Colliery, County Durham) during WWII.
Cheers, Barry.

Hi
I am trying to find any info on a father and six sons lost at sea during a mine sweep in the first world war. The family was called tutchier or tutcher and i am told they were from grimsby/hull. I am also told that their boat was one of seven to be lost that night. Any info greatly appriciated Mazzie

What a great site!
My husbands Grandfather was Thomas Richard Smith, Cheif Engineer of Steam Trawler Isabella Fowlie (West Hartlepool)
Any info at all would be most appreciated. please email me at garry.smith2@ntlworld.com.

Hello - I am interested if anyone knows information regarding Skipper LT Alfred Hales who was involved in minesweeping out of Grimsby 1939/45.

I have been searching for some years for information regarding my fathers WW11 service. I have found out a little. He served aboard BYMS 2028 (which I think he went to New York to bring back) in the Meditteranean - HMS St. Angelo - until 1944 when he was sent back to serve aboard MFV 717 attached to HMS Pembroke until 1946. If anyone out there knew him during this time or have photographs of either of these vessels I would be most grateful if you could contact me.E-mail jopat@elmlodge.freeserve.co.uk.

Re: ENOS WERLE (my father) Served RNPS WW2 - Joined Royal Navy as volunteer 24.11.41 HMS Ganges - 6.2.42-21.6.42 HMS Europa
- 22.6.42 - 31.7.43 Mentor Grosmont Castle? - 1.8.43- 15.1.44 HMS Trelawney? - 26.1.44- 29.4.44 HMS Nimrod?
Received Silver Badge 26.2.43 when mentor is listed on his record as the Grosmont Castle.
I am proud of my father who died many years ago and want to make a record of his service and relevant information for the family. As with many who were part of this proud service he was reticent about his own history. I think he was based at some time in the North Atlantic where he was washed overboard on at least 2 occasions. I know that the Ganges and Europa were Naval bases but have no information about the last three vessals. Any enlightenment would be appreciated .Can you help?
Many thanks, P J A Turner nee Werle.

during ww2 my father served on hmt Leicester city, it was an armed trawler,one of the football fleet by built by consolidated fisheries before the war. i am looking for a photograph or a print of it, can you help? many thanks P B Green.

Could anyone with any knowledge of the where abouts or what happened to this ship please e mail me ,thanks at cm_carrhotmail.com

I am looking to find out any information at all regarding my father-in-laws service during WWll.
All we know is that he volunteered for the Royal Navy at the beginning of the war and served on minesweepers. He was awarded the Atlantic Star medal and we know that he served in the Scapa Flo area. He would never speak of his wartime experiences so we have no more information than this.
I would be grateful of any information at all as my son is now serving in the Royal Navy and is keen to know about his grandad.

Nick ...We have just found my husbands uncle LT/JX 237414 Harold Abbotts was on board this trawler .Died 7th January 1943 We have had some help from others re this boat. What does the JX stand for ? If any one has any information on this and where it went down l would like to know about it. We are off to Suffolk on Tuesday to visit the memorial and museum that is there.
Jean .. The prefix LT is Lowestoft RNPS base and JX was used for Seaman ranks
HMT Jura was sunk by U-boat U-371 on 7th Jan 1943 from convoy MKS-5.. U-371 then damaged the British 7,159 ton Ville de Strasbourg, which was also sailing with MKS-5. and was later destroyed by bombs in Algiers.
U-371 was sunk 4 May, 1944 in the Mediterranean north of Constantine, by depth charges from the US destroyer escorts USS Pride and USS Joseph E. Campbell, the French Sénégalais and the British destroyer HMS Blankney. 3 dead and 49 survivors.

Would like to get in touch with anyone out there who served on above(KA.1943/44 Scalpay 1944/46.Where are you---Pete Thompson,Harry Booth ,Bill McGettrick?
From Tom Topping(Bunts)

Hi I am looking for info on the Grimsby trawler Rigoletto she was machine gunned and the skipper and mate were killed the 3hand brought her back to Grimsby his name was Thomas mc arthur
thanks frank coolledge ex deckie

My farther served on the rutherford K558. Between 3 december 1944 till 18 january1945.
He was also at or aboard Europa. contender.drake.sheba. and the implacable. He was awarded the silver A/S - M/S Badge on the 3 Aug. 1943 and he stitched it onto his sleeve he says that a week later somebody stole it. My dad is still alive but getting on in years. He is 83 now. Can you tell me were i can get a replacement he would be made up. thank you.
When he was aboard the rutherford they sank two e boats in the channel on christmas eve 1944. I have photos of the rutherford and the football team he was in at hms sheba . they won the cup for 1945-1946 he was all so in the water polo team
thank you.

Hello, I am not sure if anyone will be able to help but I am researching Great Uncle Reginald PARKER who was killed on active service in WW1. I understand he served on HMS Hopeful which I believe was a small but seaworthy fishing boat that had one 6 pounder gun. My relative is buried in Greece and commemorated on the CWGC site. Does anyone know where I may be able to obtain pictures or details of this vessel. Many Thanks Yasmin Gibbins

looking for any information on my father raymond boat he was a cook served on europa/badger/st judno/forward between 1942 and 1946 any photos of boat etc of particular interest many thanks in advance

hello my name is donald and I was looking info on the Royal Naval Patrol Service HM Trawler Horatio, which my uncle Ernest Arthur Donald Savage, stoker LT/KX 124739 known as donald to his mates, served and died on her in the med. Any info on him, the ship and any surviors. thank you D.J.Savage.

Hello, my name is Liz Moran. I'm interested in finding out a little bit more about my father, whose Royal Navy number was LT/KX. 113757. He joined the service as a Stoker in August 1940 and was promoted to a Petty Officer in June 1942. He was apparently selected for "special
duty" with one of the training craft and worked under the direct orders of Captain Hepton (unfortunately I cannot make out Captain Hepton's
first name initials), for a considerable period of time. He was awarded some sort of "honours" but his name was inadvertently forgotten off the list. I have sent for his Navy Records but I would love to hear from anyone who could help shed any light on my father's unassuming past. I vaguely remember him once telling me that he was on a boat that was blown up, however I was then a teenager and not interested in such things! Now, much much older, how I wish I could turn back time!!! Please could anyone tell me about Captain Hepton as well. Kind regards, Liz (North Lincolnshire).

Nick, I am researching the history of the minesweeper trawler HMS DEODAR and whilst I already have a great deal of information I am still missing details for the period June to December 1944. I would therefore be pleased to hear from any sparrow who served on a trawler in the 15th Trawler Group (M/S. A/S), i.e. ACACIA, BIRCH, PINE, WALNUT, BLACKTHORN, BAY, OLIVE or DEODAR, during that period. Many thanks.

Hi nick.
I am trying to find information about my wife's grandfather Lt. commander Claude Hayhoe D.S.O. he was on Minesweepers in the Channel in WW2,before being discharged after falling down some steps. He was called up having served on Q. ships in WW1.
Any info would be welcome Thank you Robert Carter

Dear Sirs
Please can anyone tell me the origin of the name Harry Tate? Or where I can get such details. Please reply to pcwickins@hotmail.com
Many thanks P C Wickins

Can anyone help with information to my late grandfather john henry hunt who served on the mineswepers during world war 2. Nicknamed Jack and originally from Bicester, but lived until his passing away in the village of Titchfield, Hants. I have come across some medals of his and would dearly like to find out some background history and information so that I can present them to my father ( his son ) for a birthday presesnt.Unfortunately D.O.B. and name is all I have from my side. Can anyone with info. help me out

My father in law, Harry Little served throughout WW II on various minesweepers out of Harwich I believe. For the life of me I cannot find information on any of them has anyone heard of the "Lord Melchard" and BYMS. Any help
gratefully received. Thank You

Hello Nick
I'm currently researching my Grandfather's RNPS history(MX 767586, Mervyn John Maull), however there is just a couple of points i'm stuck on and any help would be much appreciated. On his Service record it states that between 8/7/43 and 21/4/44 he was serving with Inwell? on MMS 136. - would it be possible to know where and what Inwell was and where MMS136 was serving at the time.
Also it states that he served at St Angelo in 1945 on "Busy"- again what and where was "Busy"?
And Finally i have a photo of a MMS that he served on with the number J636 on the side of it- would it be possible to find out what MMS this was? I would be grateful if you could enlighten in any of the above points.
Best Regards,
lee Kuklinski

My father was born in Plymouth in 1922. He spent most of his time at sea in the merchant navy but transferred over to the Royal Navy during WWII. Just wondering if anyone remembers him and has any photos. He's still fit and well living in Cornwall. Thanks Deborah

Does anyone know my father Jim Taylor who served with the RNPS during WWII
he served on the following:- HMS Duncton, HMS Sarabande, HMS Duple and other ships of the RNPS His action stations were rear gunner but because he was a butcher on civvy street they gave him the job of cook so if anyone who remembers him will probably remember some of the meals he prepared.
He is in his 80's now but is still quite fit and travels the world with my stepmother and the family, although he would like to re-visit some of the places he went to during his service with the RNPS like Lagos and the Ascension Islands. As a young impressionable boy, he would (and still does) t ell me tall stories of his exploits, such as being stationed in the Red Sea and being their so long that when they pulled up the anchor they discovered one of the Pharoahs chariot wheels on the end, or the time he baked some rock buns that where so hard nobody could eat them, so they chucked them over the side of the ship, and sunk a German uboat, and how they where swept up onto a wave in the Atlantic and they where on that one wave for three weeks! My Dad was and still is a character so I am sure someone will
remember him.
He still visits Lowestoft for reunions and services approximately once a year and has made contact with a few of his old comrades who have visited us in Halifax, West Yorkshire and told me tales that would make your hair turn grey, these were brave and courageous men, although they would not admit it.

Hello, my father Alfred Robert Taylor served on the above ships from 1943 to 1945, is it possible that anyone has a photograph of HMT Ben Tarbert. My father has just turned 80 and doubts any former shipmates could be still around, he cant remember any names apart from nicknames.
Paul Taylor .

Hi Nick, Looking for any info regarding HMT Dorinda FY 623 built 1917 in Dundee by SB Co Ltd.
Any info you have would be greatly appreciated......

My Grand father served on the H M S GOODWOOD,he was also in the RNVR.he was a fisherman from Ramsgate Kent. his name was Frederick john Heyburn, and I am reresearching my family history,and would like any imformation how small if your grand father was on that ship,thanks. Mr F.J.Heyburn

Any former members of complement of HMS Shaint, MFV's 85 and 625 at Algiers, Oran etc and HDML 1022.
Jim Pottinger

I don't know if anyone can help me, I'm looking for a picture of the Trawler Lady Shirley, my Dad ( William Talbot LT/KX 120730) served on her and was aboard when she went down Dec/11/1941,
Thanks Ronald Talbot

DEAR SIR
I AM ASKING YOU IF YOU CAN PLEASE POINT ME IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION TO OBTAIN A PHOTOGRAPH OF THE TRAWLER ARAB
MY LATE UNCLE SERVED ON THIS SHIP AND I WOULD BE VERY GRATEFUL IF YOU CAN HELP
THANK YOU STEPHEN SWINHOE

Hello Folks, I am searching for any information on my dad. Walter " Twoshy " Brown, a Sheringham fisherman, who was at one time on HMS LETOP or LET OP. He talked of Milford Haven, Stranrae, and Lowestoft. Anyone remember him ?
Thanks for listening, his eldest daughter Honor. Jones nee Brown. Vanc. Island. Canada. honorable@shaw.ca

Hi NICK, I HAVE READ THROUGH YOUR GUEST BOOK, HOPING TO FIND ANY LINKS INTO A MINESWEEPER 'MIDSUMMER' I KNOW SHE EXISTED BECAUSE MY FATHER SERVED ABOARD HER IN WW11,I ALSO KNOW SHE WAS IN THE CAPE DURING WW11.MY FATHER WAS JOHN HENRY FROST HIS NICKNAME WAS JACK. I ALSO KNOW HE HAD A DIPLOMA FOR CROSSING THE LINE IN HER AND HER NAME WAS CLEARLY PRINTED ON THIS.BUT SADLY NOBODY CAN PUT ANY LIGHT ON HER.MY FATHER PASSED AWAY IN 1966,AND I WOULD LOVE TO KNOW OF HER AND ANY SHIPMATES. THANKING YOU, I REMAIN HIS SON J.S.FROST{JACK}

I am the archivist of 1855 (Royton) Squadron Air Training Corps and I am researching Seaman Robert Aerstall who was lost overboard from the trawler HMS Erith on 15th February 1945. I would like to make contact with anyne who knew him and especially like a photograph of the HMS Erith

My dad served on to minesweepers(converted trawlers) in WW2 the"KENNET" and the"ANDIJK" could anyone give me any infomation about these two ships or does anyone remember them.

I am doing some family history research and came across a copy of my late fathers naval record of service – I am seeking any information I
can on… HMS/RNPS: Lucifer, Europa, Crispy? Paris Gipsy, Sturton/starton? ML 237 Can yo u assist in any way.. thanks Peter Hopkins

I am the manager of St. Mary's Lighthouse and Visitor Centre, which is run by the local authority in Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear. We have recently been donated a model of this ship and wish to enhance it with a small display of text and photographs. I've got all the basic facts and figures of its wartime life and have ordered photos from the Imperial War Museum, but would very much like to include some personal recollections of anyone who served on the vessel or was associated with it in any other way. I'm also hoping for more information on the ship's peacetime life.
thank you, Stephen Gregory.

I am trying to contact an old ship mate who served on the mms1017 in 1943. His name is Gordon Warren from Whitley Bay Newcastle and he was a wireless operator. Is there any information that you could give me?
Thank you Bill Cunningham

Hello,Iam looking for any information about the Glasgow registered CALADOIN MONARCH a trawler possible sailed out of Hull during ww2,looking for anyone who has information on a crew member by the name of ROBERT LACHANUDIS.Thanks, Peter Lachanudis.

Can anyone provide information on BYMS 2211 on which my late step- father SM LT/JX 242453 Edward (Flamborough) Major served in 1944.

Hi, Les,
Saw your posting on RNPS Guestbook.
HMT Arctic Hunter, FY.1614, was a fishing trawler requisitioned into the RNPS as a Minesweeping Trawler in 8.39. She was built in 1929, and was of 356t. She was returned to owners in 5/45.
She was armed with 1-12pdr A.A. gun, 2 x 0.5" A.A. m/guns, and 2-M/guns (2 x 1) of rifle calibre (prob. 0.303" or 0.30").
I have a photocopy of a photo of her, and will scan it and send on to you as a jpeg, as soon as I get chance.
There was a Minesweeper base at Queenborough, on the Isle of Sheppey, Kent, which is literally just around the corner from Sheerness, (also on I.of Sheppey). The Depot Ship for the base at Queenboro' was HMS St. Tudno, commisioned in 1/7/41- 07/45.
There was also a base called HMS Wildfire at Sheerness, which went thro' Wildfire, II, and III, before reverting back to Wildfire. II and III were Accounting Bases for Auxil. M/Sweepers until 29/02/40, being absorbed by Wildfire.
There is a Minesweeping Museum Section of the Guildhall Museum, Queenboro' run by volunteers. They do have some photos of M/S and crews, but most are of Motor Mine Sweepers, known as "Mickey-Mouses". The RNPSA Museum may have some photos, I'm not sure about this.
Contact fot the M/S Museum at the Guildhall Museum is,
Lin Vine, email to :-vinelinda@hotmail.com.
She is very helpful, but as a volunteer her time is limited, she may take a time to reply.
Hope this helps, and good hunting,
Chris n Dave Pennell,
East Sussex, UK.