Details

ALBURY (continued)
4th June 0840 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 400
City
of
Christchurch
troops and 1 French woman.(1)
On let June:
A.L.0.10(1)
Total 1536
L.L.0'a 12,(1)
on 3rd June:
The
City
Authority - R.O.I. p.219.
R.0.III,p.493-5, 499. 10,
The
following
A.L.C's
The following awards were made:
D.S.C.
Lt. Cdr. C.H. Corbet-Singleton, R.N.
D.S.M.
Actg. L/Sto.
F. Putt.
Canteen Man'g'r A. Harris.
(1) Margate report. D.R. gives 470, a number which probably
includes some refugees. 01 and vessels.
21

Details

A.L.C's and M.L.C's
The following were transported to the Dunkirk area by the
S.S. City of Christchurch:
On 1st June:
A.L.C.10(1)
M.L.C's 12,(1) 21,(1) and 22.(1)
On 3rd June:
The City of Christchurch also claims to
have transported 6 M.L.C's to Dunkirk on this
May
date. There is, however, no confirmation of
this, but she did transport the M.L.C.17(1).
The following A.L.C's were transported to the Dunkirk area
by the S.S. Clan Macalister.
broke
Taken
On 29th May:
A.L.C's (1) (1) 5,8,(1) 15, 16, 17, and
18.(1)
1130
Dover.
1300
(1) Not mentioned in D.R's list of ships and vessels.
22

Details

A.L.C.10(1)
Landing Craft
S/Lt. L.R. Ponsonby, R.N.V.R.
31st May
2400
A.L.C.10 and M.L.C's 12, 17, 21, 22,
arrived at Dover on board the S.S.
City of Christchurch.
1st June
1130
A.L.C.10 and M.L.C. Nos. 21 and 22 were
placed in the water.
1430
The City of Christchurch received
orders to leave Dover with M.L.C.12
on board, and A.L.C.10, M.L.C.21
and M.L.C.22 in tow, and drop them
at W buoy. (M.L.C.17 being damaged
was left behind).
2130
Having arrived at W buoy, the landing
craft proceeded to Dunkirk in line
ahead.
On arrival at the beach, S/Lt.
Ponsonby ordered the craft to carry
on independently, as he found it
"impossible to keep all the craft
under ... [his] personal control".
(See M.L.C.12)
2nd June
0400ca
A.L.C.10 left for Dover with 70 troops
on board. Half way across the Straits
[the P. M/S SNAEFELL] /
the troops were transferred to a P/S
1000ca
A.L.C.10 arrived Dover.
[s/Lt. Ponsonby was then put in command
of the M.L.B. / Jane Holland].
Authority - R.O.III, p.528.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
27

Details

CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH Ellerman Lines Ltd. Capt. A.W.Wooster,
O.B.E.
25th May
At Spithead. anchor at Cowes. Proceeded to
31st May
1130ca
Completed the embarkation of the
following:A.L.C.10, and M.L.C.
2400
Nos. 12, 17, 21 and 22.
Arrived off Dover. Hoisted out all
but M.L.C.12.
lb
1st June
1700
Proceeded to Dunkirk, with A.L.C.10 and
M.L.C's 21 and 22 in tow.
2200ca
Arrived in Dunkirk roads. M.L.C.12 was
hoisted out and the 4 landing craft
proceeded.
[Captain Wooster says, "These M.L.C's
went straight for the beach, and
returned time after time with
soldiers, until finally we had
roughly 4,000 on board. (1) This
statement is not, however, borne out
by the reports of M.L.C's 12, 21 and
22 or A.L.C.10; not one of them
mentions having ferried troops to
the City of Christchurch].
2nd June
0300
Left Dunkirk for Dover.
3rd June
-
Left Dover for Dunkirk with 6 M.L.C's(2)
which were "landed
.....
on the out-
side of the shoals". Returned at
once to Dover.
Note: The M/B Lady Cable reports that she broke
down on the way back from Dunkirk on
the 3rd June, and that the City of
Christchurch took her in tow to the
Downs, by which time she was able to
restart her engines.
Total 4,000(1)
(1) (2) The Not mentioned only report in of D.R. M.L.C's going over on 3rd is from
M.L.C.17.
188

Details

LADY CABLE
M/B (C.W. Mott)
Lieut. B.S. Fidler, R.N.V.R.
Actg. S/Lt. G.A. Cadell, R.N.
(Retd.)
1st June
1705
With Lieut. Fidler in command,
(assisted by Mr. F. Gooding and 2
naval ratings), left Dover in top of
the dfr. Golden Sunbeam.
2nd June
0030
Arrived Dunkirk beach. Ferried about
0305
560 troops, in 7 trips, to transports.
Sailed.
0815
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 40
troops. (1)
1130
Sailed for Dover.
On arrival, Lt. Fidler and Mr. Gooding
disembarked and S/Lt. Cadell took
command.
1530
Sailed from Dover, with 2 life-boats
and one other craft, in tow of the
tug"Sun VI" [there was no such tug -
it was probably the Sun XI].
2230
Entered Dunkirk harbour. Ferried about
200 French troops to tugs and
"H.M.S. Wishart" (2) in 4 trips.
3rd June
-
On the 5th trip, embarked 24 French
troops. When nearly outside the
harbour, the Lady Cable's engine
broke down.
Seing the W.D/M.L. Haig nearby with
her engines, running, S/Lt. Cadell and
0330ca
Cadet rating Price boarded her and
found her deserted. She had some
water forward, and extensive damage
on the port bow. The Lady Cable was
placed in tow of the Haig, which
proceeded. For several hours only
slow progress was made.
0730ca
One of the Haig's engines broke down;
but Lady Cable's engine having by
now been re-started, she proceeded
with the Haig in tow.
-
Contacted a four funnelled French
destroyer, believed to be the "X.440",
and the French soldiers were trans-
ferred to her.
Lady Cable proceeded with the Haig
in tow, which now proved so difficult
an operation that after several mis-
haps, it was decided to abandon the
Haig. [She was eventually brought
back by R.A.F. personnel].
Lady Cable's engine again broke down,
and the vessel drifted for several
Contacted hours. the P/V Rouen, loaded with
-
troops, and asked that the Lady
Cable's crew should be taken on board
but the Rouen refused, and steamed
The away. S.S. City of Christchurch which
was in sight, took the Lady Cable in
tow to the Downs.
(1) (2) There Not mentioned was vessel in Ramsgate of this report. name in Operation Dynamo.
no
134

Details

H.L.G.17(1)
Landing Craft
L/S. A. Coleman, Coxewain.
3rd June
M.L.C.17 was hoisted out of the S.S.
City of Christchurch at W buoy, about
100
12 miles from Dunkirk.
-
M.L.C.17 had only one engine in action.
Two miles off the coast, that engine
1630ca
stopped and M.L.C.17 was anchored.
M.L.C.17 was taken in tow by a French
drifter. The tow parted, and the
French skipper refused to pick up the
craft again.
M.L.C.17's crew remained in the
2200ca
drifter, which went on to Dunkirk.
Towers,
R.N."
N11.
2nd June
0350cm
Left the harbour and transferred the
troops to the 0/D Locast.
Went to & small tug [the Foagal which
Authority - R.O.III, p.535. grounded on a sand bank and
to pull her
off. Embarked 100 troops from
her.
Set course for Dover.
-
Took in toy a drifting W/B [probably
the (3) filled with troops.
-
Sighted M.L.C.12 drifting: transferred
the crew to N.L.C.21.
0800ce
M.L.C.12 was abandoned.
The M/B pauleter came alongaide for
-
petrol and ammunition.
1415
Arrived Remegate, Disenbersed
troops.(3)
M.L.C.21 was then
Authority - R.O.III, D.531.
(1) (2) Not There mentioned B/Lt. in D.R. Re Towern but no 0/24 and the
(3) R.N. von in B the Navy List. that strunier N.L.C.21** ALLINA
atated the OF DO2 AMERICA the and OF know of
(1) Not mentioned in D.R. La in D.R'S
290

Details

M.L.C.21(1) Landing Craft
S/Lt. Towers, R.N.[?R.N.V.R.]( (2)
P.O. W. Parsons.
L/Sto. Thomas.
1st June
-
While M.L.C.21 was being hoisted out
of the S.S. City of Christchurch at
Dover the ship rolled heavily and
M.L.C.21 was damaged.
-
In company with A.L.C.10 and M.L.C.22,
M.L.C.21 was towed over to W buoy by
the S.S. City of Christchurch.
-
M.L.C. 12 having been hoisted out of the
S.S., all 4 landing craft proceeded
towards Dunkirk.
2200ca
On arrival at Dunkirk, M.L.C.21 embarked
51 troops from a pier. "s/Lt.
Towers, R.N." embarked and took
charge.
2nd June
0350ca
Left the harbour and transferred the
troops to the G/B Locust.
-
Went to a small tug the Fossa] which
was grounded on a sand bank and
unsuccessfully attempted to pull her
off. Embarked about 100 troops from
her.
-
Set course for Dover.
-
Took in tow a drifting M/B [probably
the Anne (3) filled with troops.
-
Sighted M.L.C.12 drifting; transferred
the crew to M.L.C.21.
0800ca
M.L.C.12 was abandoned.
-
The M/B Pauleter came alongside for
petrol and ammunition.
1415
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 63
troops. (3)
M.L.C.21 was then beached.
Total 63.
Authority - R.O.III, p.531.
(1) Not
(2) There mentioned was a S/Lt. in D.R. R. Towers R.N.V.R., but no s/Lt. Towers,
(3) Ramsgate Navy that "trawler M.L.C.21", and the
R.N. in the List.
troops". together Nothing is known of the "Anna" nor of
"Anna" report states disembarked 37 B.E.F. and 63 Allied the
"Anne IV" which is given in D.R's list of ships.
291

Details

K.L.C.22(1)
Landing Craft
C.P.O. H. Mitten
1st June
2130ca
M.L.C.22 in company with M.L.C.21 and
A.L.C.10 having been towed by the
S.S. City of Christchurch to within
12 miles of Dunkirk, was slipped and
proceeded 10). towards Dunkirk (see A.L.C.
-
On arrival at Dunkirk M.L.C.22 was
taken over by a "naval embarkation
party".
-
After leaving Dunkirk jetty, H.M.S.
Harebell 2) was followed.
-
8 miles from Dunkirk, M.L.C.22
lost sight of the Harebell.
2nd June
0420
M.L.C. 22 was abandoned 8 miles N.W.
of Dunkirk by order of Care. J.C.
Clouston, R.N.
Cdr.
Authority - - R.O.III, p.534.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
(2) No other report mentions the Harebell.
292

Details

208
195
my left foot.
especially as I was partially incapacitated by a wound on
As we were a long way from the French coast I decided
that there was very little chance of HAIG falling into enemy
hands and that no doubt help would soon be forthcoming in
reply to the wireless message I had asked X440 to send.
I hauled down HAIG's ensign and took it aboard LADY CABLE and
we tried to make towards the English coast. Unfortunately
the engine kept stopping and we made very slow progress and
finally nothing would make our engine start again. We
drifted helplessly for several hours and then sighted a Bell
Buoy which I believe may have been the N.W. Goodwin Bell
Buoy, but we did not get close enough to make sure. At
last we sighted a warship and waved HAIG's White Ensign to
try to attract stention. We were seen and the ship altered
course towards us and came up close to LADY CABLE. She was
the French transport ROUEN of Dieppe and was packed with
troops from Dunkirk. An officer asked what I wanted and I
told him that we were broken down and asked to be taken
aboard. To my surprise my appeal was met with a blunt
"No" - with no explanation, and the ROUEN steamed away.
My crew and I felt angry at this in view of the fact that
we had rescued over 200 French soldiers during the night.
No doubt the ROUEN had good reasons for not taking us aboard
but no explanation was given and I would like if possible
to discover why she was unable to help us.
Luckily another ship some considerable distance away
had noticed the ROUEN and observed that she had not picked
us up. This ship was the CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH and she
came up and took us in tow to the Downs where she was bound
for in ballast. On arrival in the Downs where CITY OF
CHRISTCHURCH dropped anchor, we were able to start up the
engine of LADY CABLE and I decided once again to try to make
for Dover. However, we broke down after a run of about
15 minutes and were picked up by a tug (Operational I
don't know her name). She had orders to proceed to Ramagate
with H.M. Drifter VIKING in tow and was about to do this
when we broke down near her. She towed us to the VIKING
and I boarded the VIKING to have my injured foot attended
to and get some rest. VIKING and LADY CABLE were towed round
to Ramsgate where we arrived about 2100. I was landed and
taken to "Merrie England" and then to Ramagate General
Hospital.
The Commanding Officer of VIKING at my request reported
the return of LADY CABLE and that one member of my crew,
Cadet Rating Price was missing but might be aboard French
warship X440. He also reported direct to C. in C., Dover,
about HAIG. A little later, while I was still at "Merrie
England", the Commanding Officer of VIKING arrived to tell
me that he had been informed from Dover that HAIG was safe.
Unfortunately he had no news for me of Cadet Rating Price.
The behaviour of my crew throughout the operation had
been magnificent. The taking off of over 200 French troops
and 6 British from the Mole was conducted quickly and
calmly under difficult and hazardous conditions. Later,
Cadet Rating Price's work in helping to get the HAIG along-
side LADY CABLE cannot be too highly praised. Without the
great initiative and efficiency he displayed the operation
would not have been successful and the HAIG would have
drifted ashore to the S.W. of Dunkirk.
After/

Details

209
196
After I had transferred French troops to X440 and the
disappearance of Cadet Rating Price, both Stoker Worsall
and Smith displayed great determination and efficiency when
we were trying to take HAIG in tow. When I was knocked
overboard they both acted with great speed and yet showed
great coolness in their difficult job of trying to get me
out of the water. I knew that a great physical effort from
me would defeat its object and that my one hope was to be
pulled out of the water slowly. Worsall and Smith carried
out my orders perfectly and I owe my life to their efforts.
When I went overboard I was wearing an Army Captain's British
Warm - a considerable weight - and this fact, coupled with
the knowledge that my heart is not good, made me realise at
once that to save my life I must not make a great physical
effort myself. The realisation of this and the way in which
Worsall and Smith carried out my instructions enabled me to
escape from a very nasty predicament.
The fine but unsuccessful efforts of Worsall and Smith
in trying to get the engine of LADY CABLE going again after
we had abandoned HAIG, deserve the highest praise. Their
cheerfulness during the hours we drifted helplessly in the
Channel before being taken in tow by the CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH
was magnificent.
It will be realised from this report that I cannot
speak too highly of the courage, coolness and efficiency
shown by my crew.
(Signed) G.A. Cadell
Acting Sub-Lieutenant, R.N. (Retired)
Report completed 8/6/40,
Ramsgate General Hospital.

Details

202
481
3.
Orders were received on 30th May to
despatch to Dover, the pontoon pier which had
just been sent off to Narvik in the EMPIRE
ABI ITY. A working party was detailed for
the pier under Lt. Commander Layard R.N. and
Sub. Lieut Murray R.N., and embarked about
1900 hrs 31st May when Empire Ability arrived,
having been recalled from the Clyde, She
sailed for Dover at about 2100 hrs the same day
This pier was not used, and EMPIRE ABILITY returned,
to PORTSMOUTH on the 2nd June,
4.
At about midnight 30/31 May orders sere
received to embark and A.L.C. referred to
in para 2 above, together with their crews in the
City of Christchurch for despatch to Dover; this
was completed by about 1130 hrs 31st day, and the
City of Christchurch sailed at noon, This party
was under Sub. Lieut ensonby R.N.V.R. It is
believed that of these craft only A.L.C. 10 was
unloaded and used, but it is not certain at
present whether the CITY OR is on
her way back to ortsmouth or not. Purther definite
information will be forwarded as soon as it can be
obtained. A.L.C. 10 left Dover for Portsmouth under
her own power at midday, 4th June.
Commander Cassidi reported to this Centre
5. at about 2000 hrs on 1st June, having landed at
SHEERNESS with A.L.C. 5 which had been considerably
damaged. His report is attached in appendix
Part I, and a summary of the action of the various
A.L.C. is given in art II.

Details

8
504
SECRET.
Use of Landing Craft during the
Evacuation of the B.R.F.
APPENDIX "A"
PART III
Dynam 286
Biuld
INTER Survices TRAINING - DEVELOPMENT Center
Form CUMMERLAND EASTHER Burneos
PORTSMOUTH
FROM :- Commandant, Inter Services Training and Development Centre.
TO :- The Vice Admiral,
H.M. Ships & Vessels,
DOVER.
DATE :- 12th. June 1940.
coc/resc/se/40
USE OF LANDING CRAFT DURING THE EVACUATION OF THE 3.3.7.
Two copies of Appendix "A" Part III, to 15 report
on the above subject enclosed with by COC/PM/17/8/40
are forwarded herewith.
2.
Part III deals with the novements of A.L.C. 10
and M.L.C. 12, 17, 21, and 22, which were sent in the
"City of Christchurch" on Stat. May 1940.
Abbilby major RM
for
LISUTENANT COLONEL
10
VICE ADMIRAL
14 JUN 1940
*
DOVER
R
Difference

Details

&
504
SECRET.
Use of Landing Craft during the
Evacuation of the B.R.F.
APPENDIX "A"
PART III
Report by Sub. Lieut. S.R. Ponsonby R.N.V.R.
The City of Christchurch with A,L,C. 10
and H.L.C. Nos. 12, 17, 21, and 22 onboard arrived off
Dover at midnight 31st May 1940,
At 0900 on 1st June orders sere received
to place A.L.C. 10 and W.L.C. 31 and 82 in the water
and to embark sufficient fuel and water for 48 hrs
running over and above that which was already in them,
(sufficient for 120 miles), using the street despatch,
This was completed by 1130,
2.
At 1430 orders were received for the City
of Christeburch to drop all the Landing Craft off Buoy
in These were then to proceed to the beach, and to
return to Dover, undertheir am power, the following
morning. M.I.C. 17 was unfit for service owing to
a hole in her water pump, and was therefore left behind,
The craft left Buoy * at 3130 and proceeded
3. in line shead I, myself being in A.L.C. 10.
On arrival at the beach 1 found it impassible
all the craft under my personal control therefore owing
to keep of boats that were there, and I
gave to the orders number for each coxswain to carry on independantly.

Details

531
SECRET
507
USE OF LANDING CRAFT DURING THE
EVACUATION OF THE B.S.P.
APPENDIX "A"
PART III
REPORT BY DJ/X125435 P.O. 7. PARSONS
While M.L.C. 21 was being lowered at Dover,
two destroyers passed the City of Christchurch at high
speed. This caused her to roll and M.L.C. 21 YES
dashed against the ship's side. The only visible
damage at the time was a broken timacle, but later it
was discovered that there was a tad laak startcard
side forward below the water line, and that the petrol
pump on the starboard engine - broken. This
necessitated rigging a jury petrol tank on dick, and
keeping the bilge pump working continuously.
2.
On arrival at Dunkirk the craft under Sub.
Lieut. Ponsonby parted company, and N.L.C. 21 embarked
troops from the inner end of a wooden pier as it -
not considered wise to work from the beach, oring to the
damage she had sustained. During the embarkation Sub.
Ideut. Towers, R.N. came on board.
After loaving Dunkink, the troops were placed
3.
on board the sloop Locust, and on the orders of her
Captain, H.L.C. 31 want to & scall tue which vas grounded
a sand bank. About 100 troops were taken off and an
on attempt was made to refloat the tug which was unsuccessful.

Details

531
SECRET
507
USE OF LANDING CRAFT DURING THE
EVACUATION OF THE B.Z.P.
APPENDIX "A"
PART III
REPORT BY DJ/X125435 P.O. 7. PARSONS
While M.L.C. 31 was being lowered at Doror,
two destroyers passed the City of Christchurch at high
speed. This caused her to roll and M.L.C. 31 YES
dashed against the ship's side. The only visible
damage at the time was & broken binnecle, but later it
was discovered that there was a tad laak startcard
side forward below the water line, and that the potrol
pump on the starboard engine was broken. This
necessitated rigging a jury patrol tank on dick, and
keeping the bilge purity working continuously.
2.
On arrival at Dunkirk the craft under Stabe
Lieut. Ponsonby parted company, and H.L.C. 21 embarked
troops from the inner end of a wooden plan as it -
not considered wise to work from the beach, owing to the
damage she had sustained. During the embarkation Sub.
Lieut. Towers, R.N. came on board.
After leaving Dunkirk, the troops were placed
3.
on board the aloop Locust, and on the orders of her
Captain, M.L.C. 31 went to & small two which vas grounded
sand bank. About 100 troops vere taken off and an
on attempt a was made to refloat the tug which was univecessaful.

Details

REPORT BY C/393895 C.P.O. H. MITTEN
M.L.C. 22 in company with M.L.C. 21 and Arb.C. 10
was towad to within about 32 utles of Dunkirk by S.S. City
of Christchurch, and alipped at 3130 and proceeded towards
Dunkirk.
On arrival at Dunkirk, the landing craft became
separated and when N.L.C. 22 came alongside the jetty she was
commandeered by a naval embartation party,
after leaving the jetty 19 followed B.ll.S. Hareball,
but lost sight of her about 8 riles off Dunkirk, we hailed W
passing paddle steamer.
M.L.C. 23 was abandoned about 8 ailes 2.1. of
Dunklrk at 0420 2nd. June, by the order of Connamier Clouston,
R.N. of H.N.S. Iris.
Commander Clounton's written authority for the casting
away or M.L.C. 22 to attached to this reports,

Details

Details

101
especially as I was patially incapacitated by a wound on
my left foot.
As we were a long way from the French coast I decided
that there was very little chance of HAIG falling into enemy
hands and that no doubt help would soon be forthcoming in
reply to the wireless message I had asked X440 to send.
I hauled down HAIG's ensign and took it aboard LADY CABLE and
we tried to make towards the English coast. Unfortunately
the engine kept stopping and we made very slow progress and
finally nothing would make our engine start again. We
drifted helplessly for several hours and then sighted a Bell
Buoy which I believe may have been the N.W. Goodwin Bell
Buoy, but we did not get close enough to make sure. At
last we sighted a warship and waved HAIG's White Ensign to
try to attractattention. We were seen and the ship altered
course towards us and came up close to LADY CABLE. She was
the French transport ROUEN of Dieppe and was packed with
troops from Dunkirk. An officer asked what I wanted and I
told him that we were broken down and asked to be taken
abcard. To my surprise my appeal was met with a blunt
"No" with no explanation, and the ROUEN steamed away.
My crew and I felt angry at this in view of the fact that
we had rescued over 200 French soldiers during the night.
No doubt the ROUEN had good reasons for not taking us aboard
but no explanation was given and I would like if possible
to discover why she was unable to help us.
Luckily another ship some considerable distance away
had noticed the ROUEN and observed that she had not picked
us up. This ship was the CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH and she
came up and took us in tow to the Downs where she was bound
for in ballast. On arrival in the Downs where CITY OF
CHRISTCHURCH dropped anchor, we were able to start up the
engine of LADY CABLE and I decided once again to try to make
for Dover. However, we broke down after a run of about
15 minutes and were picked up by a tug (Operational - I
don't know her name). She had orders to proceed to Ramsgate
with H.M. Drifter VIKING in tow and was about to do this
when we broke down near her. She towed us to the VIKING
and I boarded the VIKING to have my injured foot attended
to and get some rest. VIKING and LADY CABLE were towed round
to Ramsgate where we arrived about 2100. I was landed and
taken to "Merrie England" and then to Ramsgate General
Hospital.
The Commanding Officer of VIKING at my request reported
the return of LADY CABLE and that one member of my crew,
Cadet Rating Price was missing but might be aboard French
warship X440. He also reported direct to C. in C., Dover,
about HAIG. A little later, while I was still at "Merrie
England", the Commanding Officer of VIKING arrived to tell
me that he had been informed from Dover that HAIG was safe.
Unfortunately he had no news for me of Cadet Rating Price.
The behaviour of my crew throughout the operation had
been magnificent. The taking off or over 200 French troops
and 6 British from the Mole was conducted quickly and
calmly under difficult and hazardous conditions. Later,
Cadet Rating Price's work in helping to get the HAIG along-
side LADY CABLE cannot be too highly praised. Without the
great initiative and efficiency he displayed the operation
would not have been successful and the HAIG would have
drifted ashore to the S.W. of Dunkirk.
After/

Details

102
After I had transferred French troops to X440 and the
disappearance of Cadet Rating Price, both Stoker Worsall
and Smith displayed great determination and efficiency when
we were trying to take HAIG in tow. When I was knocked
overboard they both acted with great speed and yet showed
great coolness in their difficult job of trying to get me
out of the water. I knew that a great physical effort from
me would defeat its object and that my one hope was to be
pulled out of the water slowly. Worsall and Smith carried
out my orders perfectly and I owe my life to their efforts.
When I went overboard I was wearing an Army Captain's British
Warm - a considerable weight - and this fact, coupled with
the knowledge that my heart is not good, made me realise at
once that to save my life I must not make a great physical
effort myself. The realisation of this and the way in which
Worsall and Smith carried out my instructions enabled me to
escape from a very nasty predicament.
The fine but unsuccessful efforts of Worsall and Smith
in trying to get the engine of LADY CABLE going again after
we had abandoned HAIG, deserve the highest praise. Their
cheerfulness during the hours we drifted helplessly in the
Channel before being taken in tow by the CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH
was magnificent.
It will be realised from this report that I cannot
speak too highly of the courage, coolness and efficiency
shown by my crew.
(Signed) G.A. Cadell
Acting Sub-Lieutenant, R.N. (Retired)
Report completed 8/6/40,
Ramagate General Hospita.

Details

Dynam 286.
193
SECRET.
Use of Landing Craft during the
Evacuation of the B.R.F.
APPENDIX "A"
PART III
Report by Sub. Lieut. E.R. Ponsonby R.N.V.R.
The City of Christchurch with A.L.C. 10
and M.L.C. Nos. 12, 17, 21, and 22 anboard arrived off
Dover at midnight 31st May 1940,
At 0900 an 1st June orders were received
to place A.L.C. 10 and M.L.C. 31 and 82 in the water
and to embark sufficient fuel and water for 48 hrs
running over and above that which was already in them,
(sufficient for 130 miles), using the utmost despatch,
This was completed by 1130,
2.
At 1430 orders were received for the City
of Christchurch to drop all the Landing Craft off Buoy
The These were then to proceed to the beach, and to
return to Dover, under their own power, the following
morning. M.C.C. 17 was unfit for service owing to
a hole in her water pump, and was therefore left behind,
3.
The craft left Buoy W at 2130 and proceeded
in line ahead I, myself being in A.L.C. 10.
On arrival at the beach I found it impossible
to keep all the craft under my personal control owing
to the number of boats that were there, and I therefore
gave orders for each coxswain to carry on independantly.

Details

1/304
SECRET
USE OF LANDING CRAFT DURING THE
EVACUATION OF THE B.S.P.
APPENDIX "A"
PART III
REFORT BY DJ/X125435 P.O. V. PARSONS
While M.L.C. 21 was being lowered at Dover,
two destroyers passed the City of Christchurch at high
spend. This caused her to roll and M.L.C. 31 was
dashed against the ship's side. The only visible
damage at the time was at broken binneols, but later it
was discovered that there was & bad leak starboard
side forward below the water line, and that the petrol
pump on the starboard engine VALUE broken. This
necessitated rigging a jury patrol tank on deck, and
keeping the bilge pump working continuously.
2.
On arrival at Dunkirk the craft under Sub.
Lieut. Ponsonby parted company, and M.L.C. 31 embarked
troops from the inner end of a wooden plar as it was
not considered wise to work from the beach, owing to the
damage ahe had sustained. During the embarkation Sub.
Lieut. Towers, RaN. came on board.
3.
After loaving Dunkirk, the troops were placed
on board the sloop Locust, and on the orders of her
Captain, H.L.C. al ment to a small tus which was grounded
on a sand bank. About 100 troops were taken off and an
attempt WELD made to refloat the tug which was unsuccessful.

Details

1/304.
SECRET
USE OF LANDING CRAFT DURING THE
EVACUATION OF THE B.E.F.
APPENDIX "A"
PART III
REPORT BY DJ/X125435 P.O. V. PARSONS
Thile N.L.C. 21 was being lowered at Dover,
two destroyers passed the City of Christchurch at high
speed. This caused her to roll and H.L.C. 31 was
dashed against the ship's side. The only visible
damage at the time was at broken binneols, but later it
vas discovered that there was a bad leak starboard
side forward below the water line, and that the petrol
pump on the starboard engine WELD broken. This
necessitated rigging a jury petrol tank on drok, and
keeping the bilge pump working continuously.
2.
On arrival at Dunkirk the craft under Sub.
Lieut. Ponsonby parted company, and M.L.C. 21 embarked
troops from the inner end of at wooden plar as it was
not considered wise to work from the beach, owing to the
damage she had sustained. During the embarkation Sub.
Lieut. Towers, R.N. came on board.
3.
After loaving Dunkirk, the troops were placed
on board the sloop Locust, and on the orders of her
Captain, H.L.C. 31 went to a amall tus which was grounded
on a sand bank. About 100 troops were taken off and an
attempt was made to refloat the tug which was unsuccessful.

Details

137
182
M.L.C. 17's crew remained in the drifter, going
to Dunkirk and returning to Dover on Tuesday (4th. June)
morning.
REPORT BY C/J93893 C.P.O. H. MITTEN
M.L.C. 22 in company with M.L.C. 21 and Asb.C. 10
was towed to within about 13 miles of Dunkirk by S.S. City
of Christchurch, and slipped at 2130 and proceeded towards
Dunkirk.
On arrival at Dunkink, the landin craft became
separated and when M.L.C. 22 came alongside the jetty she was
commandeered by at naval embarkation party.
136-
131/1
Copy of instructions given to abandor L.L.C. 22 given to 0.7. C.J.
93983. Chief Petty Officer H. Litten by Connander J.C. Clounton.
(original kept at Inter-Service Training and Development Centro.)
Questions reforring to the loan by casting away of
Motor Landing Craft No. 22 in the North Sea on Sunday 2nd June should
be addressed to Commander J.C. Clouston, Rall. H...S. Isis on whone
order it was done.
(agd) J.O. Clouston.
Commander.
2/6/40.

Details

-71%2
M.L.C. 17's crew remained in the drifter, going
to Dunkirk and returning to Dover on Tuesday (4th. June)
morning.
REPORT BY C/J93893 C.P.O. H. MITTEN
M.L.C. 22 in company with M.L.C. 21 and A.b.C. 10
was towed to within about 12 miles of Dunkirk by S.S. City
of Christchurch, and slipped at 2130 and proceeded towards
Dunkirk.
On arrival at Dunkink, the landin craft became
separated and when M.L.C. 22 came alongside the jetty she was
commandeered by at naval embarkation party.
..fter leaving the jetty we followed H.ll.S. Harebell,
but lost sight of her about 8 miles off Dunkirk, we hailed a
passing paddle steamer.
N.L.C. 22 was abandoned about 8 miles Name of
Dunkirk at 0420 2nd. June, by the order of Commander Clouston,
R.N. of II.M.S. Iris.
Commander Clouston's written authority for the casting
away of M.L.C. 22 is attached to this report.

Details

Details

LBEF
TEMPORARY ADDRESS
AMER, LEGRAMS:- COBHAM."
Tudor Court,
PHONE:-
COBHAM,
COBHAM 2851.
SURREY.
To F.H. Keenlyside, Esq.,
20
OM
erman & Bucknall Steamship Co., Ltd.,
Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
104-106, Leadenhall Street, E.C. 3.
Berkeley Square House,
LONDON. W.L.
Thursday, 20th June, 1940.
COASTWISE KINGSTON-ON-THAMES
Crescent
Road,
Dear Sir,
KINGSTON
We have to acknowledge receipt, with thanks, of
letter of the 19th instant, which enclosed a letter with to
your the Master of our "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH" in connection from
this Dunkirk. We are sure that the expression of the Minister's Master
vessel's services in the recent evacuation
gratitude will be much appreciated not only by the
but by the personnel of the vessel as well.
The Private Secretary, Yours faithfully,
Ministry of Shipping.
Berkeley Square
Berkeley Square,
ELLERMAN BUCKNALL STEAMSHIP
5
LONDON We 1.
DIRECTOR,
of
your
communication
to
the
the
Master
handing to him
pleasure
in
We feel sure that the sentiments expressed
by the Minister will be fully appreciated by Captain
Hughes and all his ship's Company.
We are, Sir,
Your obedient Servants,
Drme
Secretary.
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
/CANTERE
I
3, Lime Street
NORMANI
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
MAID OR
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
/BIARRIT
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/AUTOCAR
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.

Details

-2-
of Ship.
Name & Address of Owners
Name of Master.
LAN MACALISTER
Clan Line Steamers, Ltd.
Capt. R.W. Mackie
Tylney Hall,
longuines are still learning
Rotherwick,
made as to whicher
Near Basingstoke, Hants.
office is still alive.
KOHISTAN *
F.C. Strick & Co. Ltd.
Capt. W.C. Robertson
117-121, Leadenhall St.
E.C.3.
BENLAWERS *
Petrograd Steamers Ltd.,
Capt. J.P. Drummond.
28, Bernard Street,
Leith
(Managers: Wm. Thompson
& Co.)
K
L
CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH
Ellerman & Bucknall
Capt. A.W. Wooster
S.S. Co., Ltd.
Tudor Court,
Cobham, Surrey.
K1
ROEBUCK
c/o Chief Docks Manager,
Capt. .Larbalestier.
G.W. Railway Company,
Cardiff.
ST
KITTY
Basso & Company,
Mr. W. McCondach,
Weymouth.
13, Ox Street,
Weymouth.
ST
SPINEL +
William Robertson Ltd.,
Capt. R. Humphreys
ST
Glasgow, C.1.
ST
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
The General Steam
Capt. W.J. O'Dell
PAR
Navigation Co., Ltd.,
"
ROYAL DAFFODIL
G. Johnston
ISL
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
15, Trinity Square,
"
T. Aldis
DIN
E.C.3.
WOR
ISLI
MONA'S QUEEN
Isle of Man Steam Packet
~~
Capt. A. Holkham
"
R. Duggan $
FENELLA
Company Limited,
Capt. W. Cubbon
MANXMAN
x
Imperial Buildings,
If
P.B. Cowley
TYNWALD
*
Douglas,
-
qual
&
Isle of Man.
Chief Officer
J.Whiteway 0
BEN-MY-CHREE
X
Capt. G. Woods and
Chief Officer
T. Cain /
LADY OF MANN
Capt. T.C. Woods
LORINA
Southern Railway Co.,
Capt. A. Light.
NORMANNIA
Waterloo Station,
Capt. M.C. Whiting
CANTERBURY
S.W.1.
Captain C. Hancoc
MAID OR ORLEANS
2
(Capt. A.E. Larki
(Capt. G. Walker
BIARRITZ
Capt. M.H. Bake
AUTOCARRIER
Capt. C. Maste
orized.

Details

COPY.
61
EXTRACTS FROM LOG WHILE AT DOVER
s.t. "FOREMOST 87"
160
Wednesday, 22nd May.
Lying in Dover Harbour awaiting orders. At 8-30 a.m., rec-
eived orders to proceed to Calais. Cleared Eastern Entrance Dover
Harbour at 8-45 a.m., arrived Calais Harbour 11-0 a.m. Air Raid on.
Received instructions immediately ón entering Harbour to force lock
gates which had been disabled by bombing by Enemy aircraft, air raid
still in progress. Forded locked gates, time taken being 12 hours,
and received orders to get S.S. "KATOWICE" loaded with refugees out
of Dock as soon as possible. I did this and towed S.S. "KATOWICE"
clear of Galais Harbour and into Calais Roads, finishing at 2-0 p.m.
then returned to Calais Harbour. Aerial combat going on overhead.
Immediately on entering Harbour again, received orders to
proceed to Calais Roads to assist S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH" from
Roads to Harbour and to get her in at all costs. "CITY OF CHRIST-
CHURCH" in company of Dëstwoyer being bombed from the air. Took
hold of steamer at 2-45 p.m. and towed same into Calais Harbour.
While endeavour to do this, three mines (magnetic) were exploded
by French Trawlers ahead of "FOREMOST 87" and "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH".
Things looked very uncomgortable. We managed to berth steamer
in outer Dock Calais, finishing at 4-30 p.m. I then received orders
to proceed to Calais Roads again for s.m. "WILLIAMSTOWN" as things
were a bit quieter. Took hold of vessel at 5-30 p.m. and towed same
from anchorage in Calais Roads to berth in Outer Dock Calais Harbour,
finishing at 7-30 p.m. Made fast astern of S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH"
at 7-45 p.m.
Thursday, 23rd May.
Lying in Calais Harbour. At 2-30 a.m. told to take hold
of S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH" and tow at once out of Harbour. While
taking hold of S.S. "CITY OF CHRESTCHURCH", orders were to let ship
lay. There was a 'Fifth column' scare and two men were put under
arrest. "FOREMOST 87", however, still kept ropes made fast to the
steamer. At 1-30 p.m., ordered to take hold of "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH",
official this time, and to tow out clear of Harbour to Calais Roads.
Got vessel clear of Harbour and into Roads. At 2-40 p.m. returned
to Harbour and received orders from Naval Authority to proceed to Dover
for Water and Stores. Left Calais at 3-10 p.m. and arrived at Dover
at 5-30 p.m. Air Raid in progrees when leaving Calais.
Friday, 24th May.
Lying in Dover Harbour. Received on board stores and water.
At 11-6 a.m. received orders to proveed to Calais. Cleared Eastern
Entrance to Dover Harbour at 11-D a.m. and arrived Calais Roads at
12-30 p.m. Heavings Heavy gunning and bombardment on the shore.
Situation too bad for "FOREMOST 87" to attempt making entrance to
Calais. Steamed about vicinity of Calais Roads. Situation getting
worse, with gunfire and aerial bombing. I decided to return to Dover,
arriving there at 4-50 p.m.
Saturday, 25th May.
Lying in Dover Harbour, awaiting orders. At 4-30 p.m.
received orders to tow "O.R.P.BUZA" (Polish Destroyer) from Dover to
Portsmouth. "BURZA" having been bombed on the Forecastle head,
damaging plates and bulk head under water. Took Destroyer in tow,
stern first, at 5-80 p.m. and cleared Dover Harbour Eastern Entrance
6-0 p.m. (Arrived Portsmouth with "O.R.P. BUZA" 10-0 p.m. on 26th
May, Sunday.
(Continued)

Details

208
195
my left foot.
especially as I was partially incapacitated by a wound on
As we were a long way from the French coast I decided
that there was very little chance of HAIG falling into enemy
hands and that no doubt help would soon be forthcoming in
reply to the wireless message I had asked X440 to send.
I hauled down HAIG's ensign and took it aboard LADY CABLE and
we tried to make towards the English coast. Unfortunately
the engine kept stopping and we made very slow progress and
finally nothing would make our engine start again. We
drifted helplessly for several hours and then sighted a Bell
Buoy which I believe may have been the N.W. Goodwin Bell
Buoy, but we did not get close enough to make sure. At
last we sighted a warship and waved HAIG's White Ensign to
try to attract stention. We were seen and the ship altered
course towards us and came up close to LADY CABLE. She was
the French transport ROUEN of Dieppe and was packed with
troops from Dunkirk. An officer asked what I wanted and I
told him that we were broken down and asked to be taken
aboard. To my surprise my appeal was met with a blunt
"No" - with no explanation, and the ROUEN steamed away.
My crew and I felt angry at this in view of the fact that
we had rescued over 200 French soldiers during the night.
No doubt the ROUEN had good reasons for not taking us aboard
but no explanation was given and I would like if possible
to discover why she was unable to help us.
Luckily another ship some considerable distance away
had noticed the ROUEN and observed that she had not picked
us up. This ship was the CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH and she
came up and took us in tow to the Downs where she was bound
for in ballast. On arrival in the Downs where CITY OF
CHRISTCHURCH dropped anchor, we were able to start up the
engine of LADY CABLE and I decided once again to try to make
for Dover. However, we broke down after a run of about
15 minutes and were picked up by a tug (Operational I
don't know her name). She had orders to proceed to Ramsgate
with H.M. Drifter VIKING in tow and was about to do this
when we broke down near her. She towed us to the VIKING
and I boarded the VIKING to have my injured foot attended
to and get some rest. VIKING and LADY CABLE were towed round
to Ramsgate where we arrived about 2100. I was landed and
taken to "Merrie England" and then to Ramsgate General
Hospital.
The Commanding Officer of VIKING at my request reported
the return of LADY CABLE and that one member of my crew,
Cadet Rating Price was missing but might be aboard French
warship X440. He also reported direct to C. in C., Dover,
about HAIG. A little later, while I was still at "Merrie
England", the Commanding Officer of VIKING arrived to tell
me that he had been informed from Dover that HAIG was safe.
Unfortunately he had no news for me of Cadet Rating Price.
The behaviour of my crew throughout the operation had
been magnificent. The taking off of over 200 French troops
and 6 British from the Mole was conducted quickly and
calmly under difficult and hazardous conditions. Later,
Cadet Rating Price's work in helping to get the HAIG along-
side LADY CABLE cannot be too highly praised. Without the
great initiative and efficiency he displayed the operation
would not have been successful and the HAIG would have
drifted ashore to the S.W. of Dunkirk.
After/

Details

209
196
After I had transferred French troops to X440 and the
disappearance of Cadet Rating Price, both Stoker Worsall
and Smith displayed great determination and efficiency when
we were trying to take HAIG in tow. When I was knocked
overboard they both acted with great speed and yet showed
great coolness in their difficult job of trying to get me
out of the water. I knew that a great physical effort from
me would defeat its object and that my one hope was to be
pulled out of the water slowly. Worsall and Smith carried
out my orders perfectly and I owe my life to their efforts.
When I went overboard I was wearing an Army Captain's British
Warm - a considerable weight - and this fact, coupled with
the knowledge that my heart is not good, made me realise at
once that to save my life I must not make a great physical
effort myself. The realisation of this and the way in which
Worsall and Smith carried out my instructions enabled me to
escape from a very nasty predicament.
The fine but unsuccessful efforts of Worsall and Smith
in trying to get the engine of LADY CABLE going again after
we had abandoned HAIG, deserve the highest praise. Their
cheerfulness during the hours we drifted helplessly in the
Channel before being taken in tow by the CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH
was magnificent.
It will be realised from this report that I cannot
speak too highly of the courage, coolness and efficiency
shown by my crew.
(Signed) G.A. Cadell
Acting Sub-Lieutenant, R.N. (Retired)
Report completed 8/6/40,
Ramsgate General Hospita.