Details

FOUDROYANT
French torpedo boat
Flotilla) (2nd Division, 2nd
Capitaine de corvette
Fontaine
30th May
1000ca
1530ca
Sailed from Dover for Dunkirk. (1)
Off Zuydecoote, met the T/B Bourrasque
-
coming from Dunkirk. (2)
Returned to England, with 763 troops(
31st May
-
Went to Dunkirk.
-
Returned to England with 487 troops(
1st June
0800
Sailed for Dunkirk.
The M/S Speedwell reports:
1030ca
When some distance south-east of W buoy,
two consecutive salvos of bombs were
seen to hit a French destroyer which
was in company with another vessel.
"This vessel [presumably the French
destroyer] sank within 2 or 3 minutes
of being hit. (4)
The tr. Gava reports:
1400ca
Embarked from a damaged French trawler
137 members of the Foudroyant's
ship's company.
The M/B Naiad Errant reports:
-
About 3 miles from Dunkirk a French
destroyer blew up. The Naiad Errant
picked up about 20 survivors and
transferred them to a nearby French
tug.
The French M/S Bernadette also picked
up survivors. (5)
Total 1250
(1) Cyclone's report.
(2) Bourrasque's report.
(4) The D.R. was sunk in Dunkirk channel, Landriau, at commanding the beginning
(3)
of route X Flotilla of the Pas No.17. de
Foudroyant TReport by Rear Admiral Calais).
(5) French the French Admiralty record, Folio
338

Details

NAIAD ERRANT
Taylor-Nightingale)
A.B. S. Palmer, 1/c
1st June(1)
0400
Left Ramsgate in company with 7 other
M/B's - among them the "Westerly"
[1.e. the Westerley] and the M/B
White Heather. (2) The vessels were
in line ahead, the Naiad Errant being
second.
The Westerley was subsequently lost
-
sight of and not seen again. (3)
About 3 miles from Dunkirk, a French
destroyer [the Foudroyant] blew up.
The Naiad Errant rescued about 20
survivors and transferred them to a
nearby French tug.
-
Arrived off Dunkirk beach. Three out
of the 8 M/B's had by now arrived.
One of them filled up with troops
and proceeded; the second went
aground.
The Naiad Errant ferried troops, in
the course of doing which she went
1500ca
aground. A.B. Palmer swam off to a
1900ca
minesweeper which also went aground.
Later, both the minesweeper and the
Naiad Errant refloated.
Palmer boarded his M/B, which now had
2200ca
9 troops on board, and proceeded.
2nd June(
1025
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 8
B.E.F.(5)
Total 8
Note: A.B. Palmer gives no dates in one of his
reports (T0.9144/41). According to
this report he did 3 trips.
According to the other report (R.O.IIII,
p.328) he did one trip. He attempted,
he says, to go over again on 2nd June,
but was ordered back when about 2½
miles out from Ramsgate, by the
Captain of the M/B Usanco, because the
Naiad Errant was too slow.
Authority - R.O.III, p.328.
TO.9144/41.
The following award was made:
D.S.M.
A.B. S. Palmer.
(1) A.B. Palmer says it was the 31st May, but this appears to
be incorrect.
(2) A.B. Palmer made 2 reports; in one he says "Westerly"
was in company, in the other White Heather.
(3) The Westerely was abandoned (on fire) off Dunkirk on 1st
(4) A.B. Palmer says it was the 1st June.
June. (See Sundowner).
(5) Ramsgate report, which, however, calls the M/B the
"Knight Errant".
321

Details

NAIAD ERRANT
M/Y (Owner R.K.
Taylor-Nightingale)
A.B. S. Palmer, 1/c
1st June(1)
0400
Left Ramsgate in company with 7 other
M/B's - among them the "Westerly"
[1.e. the Westerley] and the M/B
White Heather. (2) The vessels were
second. in line ahead, the Naiad Errant being
The Westerley was subsequently lost
sight of and not seen again. (3)
-
About 3 miles from Dunkirk, a French
destroyer [the Foudroyant] blew up.
The Naiad Errant rescued about 20
survivors and transferred them to a
nearby French tug.
-
Arrived off Dunkirk beach. Three out
of the 8 M/B's had by now arrived.
One of them filled up with troops
and proceeded; the second went
aground.
The Naiad Errant ferried troops, in
the course of doing which she went
1500ca
aground. A.B. Palmer swam off to a
minesweeper which also went aground.
1900ca
Later, both the minesweeper and the
Naiad Errant refloated.
Palmer boarded his M/B, which now had
2200ca
9 troops on board, and proceeded.
2nd June(4)
1025
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 8
B.E.F.(5)
Total 8
Note: A.B. Palmer gives no dates in one of his
reports (TO.9144/41). According to
this report he did 3 trips.
According to the other report (R.O.III,
p. 328) he did one trip. He attempted,
he says, to go over again on 2nd June,
but was ordered back when about 2½
miles out from Ramsgate, by the
Captain of the M/B Usanco, because the
Naiad Errant was too slow.
Authority - R.O.III, p. 328.
TO.9144/41.
The following award was made:
D.S.M.
A.B. S. Palmer.
(1) A.B. Palmer says it was the 31st May, but this appears to
(2) A.B. Palmer made 2 reports; in one he says "Westerly"
be incorrect.
(3) The Westerely company, was abandoned (on fire) off Dunkirk on 1st
was in in the other White Heather.
(4) A.B. Palmer it the 1st June.
June. (See Sundowner).
(5) Ramsgate report, says which, was however, calls the M/B the
"Knight Errant".
321

Details

USANCO
M/B (Owner, A.L. Halls).
2nd June
Two the of three miles out from Ramsgate,
the Captain of the Usanco ordered
Dunkirk, to turn back, because she
M/B Naiad Errant, en route for
was too slow.
The Usanco was subsequently allocated
to the A.P.S.
Authority - TO.9144/40.
R.O.III, p.328.
1
255

Details

WESTERLEY (1)
M/B (Owner, R.A.B. Christie)
0400
31st May
Left motor Ramsgate boats among in company them with the 7 other
Naiad Errant.
1425
1st June
The tween M/B Sundowner - half way
the 25 Ramsgate ft. and Dunkirk - out be-
and from Dunkirk, Westerley, down
returning motor cruiser sighted
Dunkirk) (and badly 3 naval on fire. ratings The picked broken crew of at 2
Sundowner and the Westerley was
were transferred to up the
abandoned. England. She did not return to
[The Sundowner continued on to Dunkirk].
Authority - TO.9144/41.
TO.9436/40.
(1) Naiad both refer to a a "Westerly" Westerley
AUZZI and DOODL Boe D. ame was among the
and the Sundowner GLORemeyer only record vessels

Details

WHITE HEATHER
M/B (Owner,
E. Smith &
Lt. Seal. ?
Sons)
1400
30th May
Left Sheerness for Ramsgate with a
convoy of 9 craft, among them the
M/Y Naiad Errant. M/B Forty Two
1630ca
also with 9 craft, in company.
The White Heather broke down, and was
taken in tow. Her convoy was taken
over by Lt. R. Nimmo, R.N.R. of the
M/B Forty Two.
[s/Lt. I.F. Smith R.N.V.R. in the M/Y Jong, returning
to Ramsgate from Dunkirk on 1st June, sighted the
White Heather "empty but at anchor". The White
Heather eventually returned to England].
Authority - TO.9436/46.
R.O.II, pp.391, 582.

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

VESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
J.Mears
Returned to owner
MUTT
MYOLA
c/o Toughs
Did not go.
6th Ramsgate Scouts
No trace of return from
MONTAGUE WHALER
Dunkirk.
MARGARET MARY
G.Chantry
A.P.S.
MATA HARI
J.W.Lintott
A.P.S.
M.L. 108
?
A.P.S.
E.F.White &
Returned to Owner 6.6.40.
MINNEDOSA
A.J.Riding
damaged.
ROSE
Lt.Cdr. Gain
Allocated to A/P.
ROSA
MATOYA
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
Reported lost by Owner.
RUBY
A.P.S.
Edvy
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs. Pickfords
Returned to Owners.
WON
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
Returned to Owners 5.6.40.
KOU
MESORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
Reported lost by Owner
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H.Goldsmith
Reported lost.
R.K.Taylor-
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NAIAD ERRANT
Nightingale
NANETTE II
E.G.Baxter
T.98 Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
to V.A.Dover.
NAUTILUB A
J.F.Mardling
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
Abandoned at Dunkirk.
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
Returned to Owners.
Kichy JOH 9 RCO a SON Ro from Sile
Ltd.
NEW WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
No. tress. of
A.P.S.
J.Emons
NIN
Returned to Owners
c/o Toughs
NIRVANA
A.P.S.
Mr.Mason
NO NAME II
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
T.98 Returned to Owners.
NORWICH BELLE
(Stm. Boat Co.
A.P.S.
Mr. Wilcox
NANCY BELLE
Returned to Owners.
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o "oughs
T.98. Returned to Owners
J.L.Shakespeare
OFFEMIA
19/6.
A.P.S.
Mr.Forman
Returned to Owners 3.6.40.
OMEGA
H.J. Gallop
ORATAVA RX 45
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
H.Joynson
Prepared for Dunkirk, did
ORELLANA
H.M. Customs,
not go.
OSPREY
Gravesend
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
T.98 Returned to Owners.
OULTON BELLE
(stm.Boat Co.
(Returned to Owners 19/6
Mr.Beran
OUR LIZZIE
Bob Leach & Son
Released 3.6.40
OUR MAGGIE
Re-allocated Special
(Admiralty Service (6A)
A.P.S.
H.Payne
ONA II
Prepared but did not go
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
to Dunkirk.
-do-
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
-do-
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
Returned to Owners
W.Walker
PROVIDENCE
Risdon Beazley
Released 1.6.40.
PALMESTON

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX A
TROOPS
MOTOR BOATS, LAUNCHES AND VESSELS (contd.)
TRANSPORTED
M.F.H. (W. H. Smith, Capt.)
87
Minikoil (S/Lt. R. E. Blows, R.N.V.R.)
/
Minoru II'
/
Minotaur (T. Towndrow, Skipper)
/
Minwood
51
Mirasol
/
Moss Rose1
/
Murious
/
Naiad Errant
8
(A. B.S. Palmer, i/c)
Nanette II
30
Nayland
83
Nemo IV'
/
New Britannic
83
(W. Matthews, Cox.)
New Prince of Wales'
-
(S/Lt. P. H. E. Bennett, R.N.)
New White Heather
-
Offemia
50
Patricia (T.H.V.)
/
Pauleter
400
(Sto. D. T. Banks)
Peggy IV:
-
(S. H. Hughes, Skipper)
Pioneer¹
-
Princess Freda
-
(S/Lt. E.S. Forman, R.N.V.R.)
Princess Lily
-
(Prob. Ty. S/Lt. K. E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R.)
Princess Maud
-
Provider
Not known
(F. Hannaford, Skipper)
Queen Boadicea II
-
(Lieut. J.S. Seal, R.N.R.) (Capt. J. Whittaker)
Queen of England'
-
Quest
-
Quicksilver
20
(S/Lt. D.L. Satterford. R.N.) (L/Sea. T. Phillips)
18
Quisisana
(S/Lt. A. J. Weaver, R.N.V.R.)
28
Rapid I
(S/Lt. J.C. Clarke, R.N.V.R.)
Reda
44
Reliance (S/Lt. P. Snow, R.N.) (P.O. R. W. Rawlings, Motorman)
80
(Skpr. A. Legget)
Renown'
-
Resolute (Skpr. W.H. Noakes)
40
Roberta (Skpr. H.D. Osborne)
-
Rocinante
-
Rosabelle
-
Rose Marie
Not known
St. Patrick1
-
Sambrez
Not known
Santosy
-
Saviour (Actg. S/Lt. J.M. Chappell, R.N.)
22
I Lost.
2 Ex-Belgian canal boat.
150

Details

INDEX
Mosquito,44,727, 74, 88 (damaged), 92-3 (sunk).
Motor boats Control sunk Organisation, 5, 25.
93. to salvage pulling boats, 60-61,; follow Capt. Howson to England 74.
Movements 119-120.
M.T.B.67, 66n, 67.
M.T.B.16, 28, 113.
M.T.B.68, 66n, 71, 75.
M.T.B.107, 66n, 111, 119 (in operation CK).
M.T.B.102, 66n, 90, 108, 115.
Naiad Errant, 72n, 92.
Nautilus, sunk, 36, 42, 47.
Nanette II, 72n.
Nelson's, picket boa+, 72n : motor boat, 107n, 119.
Nayland, 32n, 47n, 114n.
Netsukis, 23n, 107n.
Nettle, Lt., 49.
New Britannic, 32n, 47n.
Newhaven, 102, 107n, 109, 112n, 114n.
Newhaven, sends small craft, 61.
New Prince of Wales, damaged, 74.
Ngaroma, 16.
Nicolle, General, 101.
Niger, 61, 86, 100 (meets small craft returning empty), 101, 107n, 109 (rams a French ship).
Noakes, Mr. W. H., killed, 73.
N.O.I.C. Beaches, see Capt. Howson.
Noneta, 71n.
Nord, Admiral. see Abrial, Admiral.
Nore C. in C., 8, 17 (to cover Dynamo) ; provision of boats, 51; M.T.B.'s, 70.
Normania, sunk, 44.
Ocean Breeze, 60, 71n.
Ocean Cock, 71n.
Ocean Reward, 28n, 34 (sunk).
Olivier, Mr. G. D., 73.
Olvina, 60 (goes to France in error), 91.
O.L.V. van Vlaandaren, 73n, 110 (lost).
Operations : CK Blocking of Dunkirk, 111-2, 119-20; XD (E) Dunkirk demolitions, 8,
19, 106; XD (G) Boulogne demolitions, 8-9.
Oranje, 20, 24, 29n, 47n, 100.
Oriole, 28n, 47 (beached to form pier), 107n.
Osborne, Mr. F. W., 73n.
Osborne, Mr. L. V., 73n.
Ostend, unsuitable for military requirements, 7; captured, 27.
Otway-Riven, Cdr. H. J. O., 49, 80n.
Our Bairns, 34.
Overfalls, 71n.
Pacific, 30n.
Pacifico, 119-120.
Pangbourne, 28n, 41 (damaged), 42, 97, 107n, 120.
Paris, 29n, 103-4 (sunk).
Parminster, Brigadier, 22.
Pascholl, 30n, 114n, 115-7.
Patria, 20n, 24, 29n, 46.
Patricia, 20.
Patrols : air, see Royal Air Force ; Naval of the routes, 20, 23, 28, 33-34 (ships taken off),
34 (strengthened), 85 (inshore channel).
Pauleter, 60n.
Paxton, 23n, 31 (damaged).
Pellag II, sunk, 95.
Persia, 71n, 90.
Personnel vessels : vulnerability, 28; not to be employed in daylight, 29, 99; strain
Pharailde, 73n.
on, 48; sailings suspended, 70; heavy losses, 98-9.
203

Details

ESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
VANTE
MUTT
J.Mears
Returned to owner
MYOLA
c/o Toughs
Did not go.
MONTAGUE WHALER
6th Ramsgate Scouts
No trace of return from
Dunkirk.
MARGARET MARY
G. Chantry
A.P.S.
MATA HARI
J.W. Lintott
A.P.S.
M.L. 108
?
A.P.S.
MINNEDOSA
E.F.White &
Returned to Owner 6.6.40.
A.J.Riding
damaged.
MATOYA
Lt.Cdr. Gain
Allocated to A/P.
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
Reported lost by Owner.
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
A.P.S.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs. Pickfords
Returned to Owners.
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
Returned to Owners 5.6.40.
MESORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
Reported lost by Owner
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H. Goldsmith
Reported lost.
NAIAD ERRANT
R.K.Taylor-
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
Nightingale
NANETTE II
E.G. Baxter
T.98 Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
to V.A.Dover.
NAUTILUS A
J.F. Mardling
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
Abandoned at Dunkirk.
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
Returned to Owners.
Ltd.
NEW WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
No trace of return from
Dunkirk.
NIN
J.Emons
A.P.S.
NIRVANA
C/o Toughs
Returned to Owners
NO NAME II
Mr.Mason
A.P.S.
NORWICH BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston T.98 Returned to Owners.
Stm.Boat Co.
NANCY BELLE
Mr.Wilcox
A.p.s.
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o Toughs
Returned to Owners.
OFFEMIA
J.L.Shakespeare
T.98. Returned to Owners
19/6.
OMEGA
Mr.Forman
A.P.S.
ORATAVA RX 45
H.J.Gallop
Returned to Owners 3.6.40.
ORELLANA
H.Joynson
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
OSPREY
H.M. Customs,
Prepared for Dunkirk, did
Gravesend
not go.
OULTON BELLE
Yarmouth & Gorleston T.98 Returned to Owners.
Stm. Boat Co.
OUR LIZZIE
Mr.Beran
Returned to Owners 19/6
OUR MAGGIE
Bob Leach & Son
Released 3.6.40
Re-allocated Special
Admiralty Service (6A)
ONA II
H.Payne
A.P.S.
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
Prepared but did not go
to Dunkirk.
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
-do-
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
-do-
PROVIDENCE
W.Walker
Returned to Owners
PALMESTON
Risdon Beazley
Released 1.6.40.

Details

VESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
MUTT
J.Mears
Returned to owner
MYOLA
%TOUGHS.
Did not go.
R
MONTAGUE WHALER
6th RAMSGATE SCOUTS
No trace of return from Dunkirk.
R
MARGARET MARY
G.Chantry
A.P.S.
R
MATA HARI
J.W.LINTOTT
A.P.S.
R
M.L. 108
?
A.P.S. ADMIRALTY OWNED.
R
MINNEDOSA
E.F.White &
Returned to Owner 6.6.40. damaged
A.J.Riding
MATOYA
Cdr. Gain
Allocated to A/P. D.N.G.
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
Reported lost by Owner.
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
A.P.S.
S.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs.Pickfords
Returned to Owners.
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
Returned to Owners 5.6.40.P
MEDORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
Reported lost by Owner
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H.Goldsmith
Reported lost
MOTOR LAUNCH, EXTIRADENTES
OWNERS (buta) TIREDENTES'
DAMAGED.
S.
S
NAIAD ERRANT
R.K.Taylor-
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
Nightingale
S
NANETTE II
E.G. Baxter
T.98 Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
to V.A.Dover.
into
S
NAUTILUS A
J.F. Mardling
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
Abandoned at Dunkirk
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
Returned to Owners
to
Ltd.
--- WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
No trace of return from Dunkirk.
PORT
MEM
J.Emons
A.P.S.
NIRVANA
c/o Toughs
Returned to Owners
NO NAME II
Mr. Mason
A.P.S.
NORWICH BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
T.98 Returned to Owners.
(Stm.Boat Co.
NANCY BELLE
Mr. Wilcox
A.P.S.
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o Toughs
Returned to Owners.
NELLIE (Sauding
F.C.WILSON?
(
E
6
G
OFFEMIA
6
J.L.Shakespeare
T.98. returned to Owners 19/6.
OMEGA
a
Mr. Forman
A.P.S.
ORATAVA RX 45
a
H.J.Gallop
Returned to Owners 3.6.40
ORELLANA
R.Joynson
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
OSPREY
H.M. Customs,
Prepared for Dunkirk, did not go.
E
Gravesend
OULTON BELLE
Yarmouth & Gorleston T.98 Returned to Owners.
R
(Stm. Boat Co.
R
OUR LIZZIE
Mr. Beran
Returned to Owners 19/6
R
OUR MAGGIE
Bob Leach & Son
Released 3.6.40 Re-allocated
R
R
ONA II
(Special Admiralty Service (6A)
H.PAYNE
A.S.P. APS.
RI
OUR JOHN
STEVENS
STOOD BY. DIDNOT GO
RI
our
Boys
(Row boat)
(Row
boat)
H.J.VERRION.
Reported
RC
(NOIC
Ramagate)
RC
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
Prepared but did not go to
RO
Dunkirk.
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
do 1 I
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
do 1 I
RO
PRO VIDENCE
W.Walker
R
Returned to Owners.
PALMESTON
NW
Risdon Beazley
Released 1.6.40

Details

VESSEL
OWNER
JTT
J.Mears
I
YOLA
% Sougho.
I
MONTAGUE WHALER
6th RAMSGATE SCOUTS
I
G.Chantry
&
MARGARET MARY
MATA HARI
J.W.LINTOTT
m
M.L. 108
?
MINNEDOSA
E.F.White &
A.J.Riding
MATOYA
Lt. Cdr. Gain
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs.Pickfords
I
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
MEDORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H.Goldsmith
I
C
NAIAD ERRANT
R.K.Taylor-
]
Nightingale
NANETTE II
E.G. Baxter
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
D
NAUTILUS A
J.F.Mardling
]
DI
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
DO
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
and
Ltd.
NEW WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
]
NIN
J.Emons
NIRVANA
c/o Toughs
NO NAME II
Mr. Mason
FE
NORWICH BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
FR
(Stm. Boat Co.
NANCY BELLE
Mr.Wilcox
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o Toughs
GOP
OFFEMIA
J.L.Shakespeare
OMEGA
Mr.Forman
ORATAVA RX 45
H.J.Gallop
ORELLANA
R.Joynson
HEB
OSPREY
H.M. Customs,
HON
Gravesend
HOR
OULTON BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
(Stm. Boat Co.
OUR LIZZIE
Mr.Beran
OUR MAGGIE
Bob Leach & Son
ONA II
H. PAYNE.
JAVA
JUTL
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
KAAFA
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
PROVIDENCE
W.Walker
PALMESTON
Risdon Beazley

Details

DET
H.O
to
I
activity, thankful under the we cliff, were not and spotted, at the mercy for of the raiders
2161
102
ST
anchor Here at we Ramsgate. so we kept going now on Motor there only, was greation besides. I
M.
day, (C.M.B.) took returning his crew They were over full mostly told to of Dunkirk to went stay until (for now further I know) orders Office
144/S.T.N.6B.
20th October, 1940.
yac
was
the have these Navy a excursions daily seemed short and rest when provisions, but tired so as a launa
acknowledge
10
unshipped, us to their roll and so errands heavily though of that salvation, always I thought in for for a a quiet fresh time wind when sprang they returned THE you It you
from But they were very not pleased with they their could results get it. of The they the Gente gen of
THE THE THE the on
1
took and had aboard to lay her It even were was further though splendid a I mystery had in, plenty they in with came doing of more mast cable back all protection and from they out, spars their possibly we by twice might the could up, THE THE THE causin under drawn final up Servant, on these be
4/5.T.
mt,
AUK
spoke It of their daily dangers. for the troops for to me the the night stores runs, and and necessaries nights' never a duties momen they
I
am,
port
could
be
left done, of satisfaction with orders mentioned, could to re-fuel be seen, however, and when I how was relieved told that I was, the and their looks
me single-handed on June to 6th. return Here to the Cowes. Officer - and Portsmouth men disembarked, Harbour We about
5.0.p.m. Ramsgate 2.0.p.m. June 5th arriving return to Portsmouth. job accordingly was well
Director of sea Transport.
in
to see
I was me. very pleased to get back and my Mother and Father very leaving relieved White Road, A.J. Riding,
4'
Isle of Wight. maing
in
our
fu
My Signature s. Riding
o'clock
on the
haval
you any tin dedint Lervar
V. Downdrow.
as
"Naiad Errant" was with us saw we
being second, when ar
"Westerly" I burst don't into know, About flames for which three I and never miles I come took over ou tu to
a the dark water object I made my way -1"
mentioned, however,
could be when
and
ne a to 6th. return Here the
a

Details

Details

OF
MINOTAUR
104
Evace
I2 OF 4PR a, at
H.M.Y. MINOTAUR
sea
yacht club,
the Director For
walton 10-H/H1. on- haz.
ministry of evakuatin
B.C.X.
Sil
your The me ref: T.O. 9144/S.T.N. GB.
05
soot
M.V. MINOTAUR
1,10
and request furcher delay.
now enclose report re Dunkirk
115
12
nor scacoly in what
12
detail it you're account I have
in as affearing in our foat fournal. left
I am fin
your dedient Lervans
P. Downdrow.
early
as
of
K.
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with i
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out wit

Details

MINOTAUR
1123141
104
INFORMATION &
H.M.Y. MINOTAUR
yacht club,
the Director as
waltom-on-hay. walton - on- haz.
10-4/H1.
B.
ministry % thipping.
Sil
your The ref: T.O. 9144/S.T.N. GB.
05
M.V. MINOTAUR
steam,
LIO
and request furch delay.
now enclose report re Dunkirk
115
120
hor scaooly in what
12
detail it you're account, have
in as affearing in our foat fournal. left
I am time
your dedient fervans
V. Downdrow.
11/3
if
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with i
dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed
a the water I made my way over to him and fished him out wit

Details

October,
STATES
(Revised
105
an Evacuation Part ofth B.E.Y. from Dunkink.
played by M.V.I MINOTAUR
ony
mortlake Sea Scouts and arth person in
a a as Scoutmaster myself of th 1st
B.
charge of their motor vessel MINOTAUR
during the evacuation of the B.E.7.
from the Dunkirk instruction were that
0
veskel would be taken own
foot steam pinnace converted for front
by The prinscare is an bx-naval 45
05
LIO
Craining purpose and engined with of
115
moored feliof paraffin engine She is
on the Thames at mortlake
120
the miles above is for some
125
realer advanlage that would
130
strange therefore made
13
the resented 29th 110 may clock a on haval th night Commander of up
9
5
C de are me instructions himself as my home and
- "minotaur downstriam proceed and report with
Sheerness as early as possible
11/39
Bf
K.
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
burst object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed j
a the dark water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

(Revised
ear
106
an Assistant Sioutmartes and
By midnight the Crew was found,
downives am we were underway 30/5
a a scout 8.30 of 16, besides myself
B.
water and stopping for fuel
made Southend were
store ch way.
the vesbee would be taken our
though the instruction were that
0
by a nowal Crew at Sheemes
05
be avilians ec fortunity for Wanteer
felt full well that there would
LIO
115
their vessels ls remain as they would in he of
120
able to handle they crass would
12
greater a advantage,
a stop strange at a pick made uh
one serv of the Yroop's Rown front who had
and well was served versed as in Engineer the are on board
keeping our engin ruming my She of has
giving trouble manly all
11/3
of
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with i
dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed
a the water I made my way over to him and fished him out wi.

Details

face
107
ror
he croom address cateing transport and beach had stopped there
ab
we reported ar Grewesend, took
ls report ls fouthend. at 8pm 30/5
on furcher stores and were the
we made fouchend were asked
whech we were fir li proceed
ls had assistant
be ger back ls all
05
London so I fut hin ashore
helped together bring with the the vessel scout who down had
115
and was unwilline that he should
12
this The engineer carried penation on
Com any furch
and next we mornin made Ramsgale an 9am
31/5
is he and had freen
fuel and received detailed
We look on further store t
instruction ls proceed ls a specified
30
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of he
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with :
dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed
a the water I made my way over to him and fished him out wi

Details

Details

October, 1935.,
(Revised
109
had Come back and now
in dh boak that had gove, across
harbourd and had mounted
that Jerry had Captured the
machine hine gun covering the beach, B.
were our of
courseny
such was not the
position the whole of Dunkints was
0
but we did not know this
still very much in on hands
05
and
is now ship liteboak was
LIO
faxfective weacher was perfect and we
115
soon picked uh the French coast
120
as
and then Dunkink harboar had
we proceeded wen Cantrously on
125
nearing wrecks Coaper because of ch
13
debris many o lines, and man
Having love ,Indeavouring tol floor catters
&
and life found things fairly quiet
of towing gov small on with open our ships allowed boals Fladen
of
11/39
H
K.
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed i
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

October,
(Revised
110
ih soldiers out to the troop transport
inchored off in deep walls, or of
evading our ship from th ofen th
transports and proceeding our ls
this method of working
B.
was satisfactory but slow and
could have been speeded wh
manned the ship boat to lapert
Considerably if naval Crews had
0
spent case had days handled on the in oar beache in their lived and
soldies, who had in many cases
05
ls
expecting Unfortunately
now heavy much ship lifeloat was
LIO
115
as
hand with the lifeboak as I had
was in ho position ls give a
120
my hand more than full with
125
instru boar keeping the propelle
131
135
having 81 ploating lines, many of the transports
d rudde free I from the aozen
9
d life he th beach and
floor cutters
to
1
his i have them the off when full
all troof who we like
11/39
Has
"Naiad Errant" being second, anw
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed in
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

(Revised
CSAGE.
113
ea
li
rub however a trawler took off our
soldier and we returned ls our East
for a few hours sleep
Coast base, refuelled and turned in
B.
minitan made as, chough we
The was the only Crip the
reported h make a second trip,
as make only very fast ships were
we were instructed to standly
0
05
ls usequent croning
LIO
with
115
120
as "Minoteur" Could mn
make ih C second Crip I joined
125
lug "Yossa which was
13
leaving at Spm. far night
convaying a couple of small
moth named boat One of the your
"Jeannett" a fa a
remember sure (though I am not as all
of thin) only had / handa
ds 11/39
/
3f
K.
"Naiad Errant" being second, anw
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with i
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

(Revised
MESSAGE.
55
unrel
114
(heist
lowed us across Casting us off
board so I joined her. the 'Fossa'
as Dunkink harbour Intrance
and bring off addiess to load up
our jor was ls run in to the mole
B.
the Yossa In running int th
harbour the motor boals steering
5
00
repairing it could be found
Cable broke and no means of In
meantime che toda had
105
herself. got int the moband filled
LIO
uh with soldies. steaming
115
our she picked us up and took
us naval in with laden an open
120
125
with soldier which was
13
only making 3 on 4 Knots under
an power harboug the proceeded
13
our of Dunkink but ran
ng
and aground quick soon afterwards
transferred to ch Cuttin
was unable have to off. I
which Cast off ls make it Ohr
ds 11/39
/
Her
K.
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed i
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

October, 1935.,
(Revised
NAVAL MESSAGE.
55
a
are
115
sayth back The Officer in charge
the Course he was steering
of and it was soon apparens from
Cutle had no charts
char he and not know he Course
B.
back. He admitted that the was
so d radily let me take the helm
5
He said he had intended following
00
the but general lost stream cand in boals the going darkness back
105
dam Came when we were alour
we made very slow progress and
LIO
115
half way back. It was interesting
12
la see reactions of th Hereh
12
Adin aking Johoulder when us a Jerry plane started
a
Shem the plane was still
king when nothing seemed to worry
X
medway he off it suddenly
8
nds.
Course and rose inks the
we eventually made Ramsege
ds 11/
of
K.
"Naiad Errant" being second, and
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of he
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with :
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out wi.

Details

October, 1935.,
(Revised
NAVAL MESSAGE.
55
116
caken over I get beek
bout 10. 30 in the the morning having
being taken for a survifivor
On landing was annyed as
until I realised how Chrly d
B.
fees scrupty I must have looked.
5
law heard that th
00
hap its soldiers caken off f
tug Yssa which had grounded,
105
has alendoned, later releaving
LIO
a airect hit from a Jerry plan.
115
How true the is d whech th
Yosa did even get back 1a not
120
really know.
125
I understand the mober boar
131
with has th also broken alandoning calle
135
Downdrow.
14
T. TOWNDROW.
A
ds 11/39 H.
space
for the order
"Naiad Errant" being second, anwn and DROW: for bunkirk.
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed in
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

SAGE.
(Revised
October, 1935.,
Ext. 2161.
MINOTAUR
55
117
445/S.T.N.6B
achr Club.
60
21st February, 1941.
walton Essex. hage 65
70
ir,
m.v. "MINOTAUR".
75
I have to acknowledge the
14/2-41.
receipt of your letter of 17th February
80
and to state that it would be
appreciated if you would forward the
report of your experiences in taking
the above vessel to Dunkirk.
ferener T.0.9144/STN. 85 BB.
90
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
V. MINOTAUR.
95
Sqd H.C RIGGS.
Dunkink.
100
has as long ago
105
asked crews me for an
for Director of Sea Transport.
my perienen in taking LIO 115
T. Towndrow, Esq.,
H.M.Y. "Minotaur",
l brunkink
Yacht Club,
120
Walton-on-Maze,
Essex.
In have a report
125
please if it is les nor the two know. late. I request will you it 131 135
preshed for time for som 145
delay but I have been monch lacending for
I am the
Your rechint (49543) amant Wt. 30557/D,5886 250M pads
11/39 His
for the order
y. Tohnarow. (Petty office
"Naiad Errant" being second, and KOWNDROW. OIL for Dunkirk.
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed in
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

Details

WAR TRANSPORT
XXXXXXXX
NAID ERRANT
2161.
LETTER SENT
119
170CT1941 8
120
AD, WIMBLEDON COMMON.
J.S.44/S.T.N.6B.
October, 1941.
October 1941.
Sir,
have to acknowledge receipt of
I letter of the 13th October
your enclosing a report on the Dunkirk
operation in so far as your M/Y
operations and to thank you for the
"NAIAD ERRANT" took part in these
he 16th September
by Able Seaman
most interesting information which
yed by this
you have been good enough to supply.
B.E.F from Dunkirk.
It is anticipated that this
it Servant,
report will be of value in compiling
the final report, which will be drawn
up on these operations.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(Sgd) H. C. RIGGS
Director of Sea Transport.
R. K. Taylor Nightingale, Esq.,
other
22, Wool Road,
WIMBLEDON COMMON.
SCENED
x
ver
1100
ary
"
and
STATE
10. I
and
break-
water at four oclock the next morning. At the time appointed
we were there, finding other boats of the same type, waiting
for the order to move. We moved into "line ahead", the
"Naiad Errant" " being second, and were off for Dunkirk.
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed in
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

NAID ERRANT
TELEPHONE: WIMBLEDON 0040.
120
K.TAYLOR NIGHTINGALE.
22, WOOL ROAD, WIMBLEDON COMMON.
13th October 1941.
TN6B
Sir,
Y.Naiad Errant
Referring to your letter of the 16th September
1940, I enclose a copy of an Account by Able Seaman
Samuel Palmer D.S.M., of the part played by this
motor yacht in the evacuation of the B.E.F from Dunkirk.
Your obedient Servant,
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping, (M.O)
Berkeley Sq. House,
Berkeley Sq.London.W.1.
E.l.
other
millia RECEIVED 15 RECEIPTRY OCT
ver
ary
" and
10. I
and
break-
water at four oclock the next morning. At the time appointed
we were there, finding other boats of the same type, waiting
for the order to move. We moved into "line ahead", the
"Naiad Errant" being second, and were off for Dunkirk.
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed in
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with
-1-

Details

121
M.Y. "NAIAD ERRANT"
at
DUNKIRK.
1940
by
ABLE SEAMAN SAMUEL PALMER. D.S.M.
The adventure began with a sudden draft from
Devonport to Ramsgate. For one night at Ramsgate I was
billetted with other seamen in the Fun Fair Ballroom,
and the next day action began. I was told off with another
seaman, two ordinary seamen and two stokers, to take over
two motor yachts, the "Naiad Errant" and the "Westerly".
Being the senior hand, I detailed one seaman, an ordinary
seaman, and one stoker to take charge of the "Westerly" and
tooks the remainder on board the "Naiad Errant" with me. I
thought she looked the better of the two boats.
I had the petrol and fresh water tanks filled and
took on provisions. During the day I was told that a
rendezvous had been made for eight boats outside the break-
water at four oclock the next morning. At the time appointed
we were there, finding other boats of the same type, waiting
for the order to move. We moved into "line ahead", the
"Naiad Errant" being second, and were off for Dunkirk.
"Westerly" was with us when we began but what became of her
I don't know, for I never saw her again.
About three miles outside Dunkirk I saw a plane
burst into flames and come tumbling out of the sky, with it
a dark object which I took to be the pilot. As he landed in
the water I made my way over to him and fished him out with

Details

123
and during the period we had to wait for the flood tide to
come up and take us off Jerry's bombers came over several
times, bombing the ships and machine gunning the soldiers
on the beach. We were lucky not to be hit, for we had only
the soldier's Bren guns to defend us.
The Captain would not let me go when I
asked him if I could return to my own ship, but by now
some Tommies had parked themselves in the "Naiad Errant"
and, after clearing the tow rope from the propellors, had
got her engines going. The tide was coming in fast- it
must have been between seven and eight oclock (I had put
my watch out of action swimming)- and the rising water
floated the ship, also my boat. I waved to the soldiers
and made gestures to them to bring her alongside, which
they managed to do, although the ship was well under way.
I sang out to my crew to come down with me,
but apparently they had had enough of it- they did not show
up, but there was no time to argue. Both the ship and my
boat were under way, SO just as the "Naiad Errant" came
alongside I jumped down alone, and got her clear of the
ship, which promptly increased her speed and went towards
England.
The "Naiad Errant" was packed full. I glanc-
ed back at the petrol tank gauges and saw that they regist-
ered half-full. There was nothing to do but to scrounge
some more. A boat was moored in the fairway and I reckon-
ed she would be fair game. As luck would have it she was
full of petrol in two gallon tins, SO I fisted six of them
and put them in my tanks. Just as I thought we were all
set for home- the. engines gave out! I could not get back
to the boat that was moored and we began to drift on to
3

Details

126
boat up and returnine to in the
daylight. Much the same thing happened- bombs dropped
around me and the machine guns rattled overhead, but I
was not so much worried about that as about keeping the
engines running and I was thankful to have no more trouble
with them.
I did not see my original "crew" again, SO I
dont know how they got on. No doubt they returned safe
and sound, as I and the "Naiad Errant" did.... the job
had been done.
NOTE
"Naiad Errant" a twin screw motor yacht of 9.12 gross
tonnage (7.56 register tonnage) was built by William
Osborn Limited of Littlehampton for Major and Mrs R.K.T.
Nightingale and launched there in June 1939. She was
registered at Littlehampton No. 167764 in 1939.
In May 1940 she was lying at Clarks Wharf Sunbury on
Thames when she was requisitioned by Admiralty during her
owners temporary absence in Bath, and steamed down river
the same night by Mr.H.C.H.Clark of Messrs Horace Clark
& Son, Sunbury - on -Thames assisted by a crew composed of
members of the Sunbury Auxiliary Fire Service to Ramsgate
where she was handed over to Admiralty.
On return from Dunkirk she was retained by Admiralty
refitted at Clark's Wharf Sunbury on Thames and has since
formed part of the "Mosquito Navy" engaged on coastal
patrol service. Her Owner Major R.K.T.Nightingale M.C.
is one of the crew of M.L. "Lady Ruth" of the Middlesex
Flotilla of the Upper Thames Patrol (Home Guard) Able Sea-
man Samuel Palmer D.S.M is now serving on H.M.S.Jackal.