Details

BEAL( 1)
M/V (Tyne-Tess S.S. Co. Ltd)
J.W. Liley, Waster
8th May
2230
Left the Downs, the U/V's Yewdale and
Bullfinch in company.
9th May
0430
Arrived off the benches.
1600
Embarked troops by use of boats.
Proceeded in company with the Yewdale
1650/
and a destroyer.
Air attacks.
1800
0th May
0825
Arrived Romagate. Disembarked 364
troops. (2)
Total 364.
thority - TM.6213/40.
Not mentioned in D.R.
Ramsgnte report.
89

Details

(1)
BULLFINCH
M.V. (G.S.N.Co.Ltd.)
28th May
2230
Left Small Downs for La Panne the
M/V's Beal and Yewdale in company.
29th May
0450ca
Arrived off the beaches. Ordered to
beach the ship.
0545ca
Ship aground fore and aft, owing to
kedge anchor not holding. Embarked
troops.
1815
Ship refloated and proceeded with 1500
troops on board. Air attack when
passing Dunkirk. Damage by concussion
to steering gear, which was repaired;
after which ship again proceeded.
-
Air attacks; two aircraft claimed shot
down. (2) (Afterwards found that both
compasses had been put out of action
by concussion from bombs).
30th May
1100
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 600
troops. (3)
Total 600
Authority - - P.L.A. Monthly.
(1) 433 tons. Noramlly engaged by the G.S.N.Co. in the North
France trade.
(2) (3) Not Estimated. mentioned D.R. in D.R. states that Bullfinch, troops. Silver Dawn and
Forsa disembarked together 913
134

Details

FISHER BOY
Drifter (1st M/R
Flotilla)
Ty. Skpr. G.W. Brown,
R.N.R. (1)
-
28th May
Lt. Cdr. A.J. Cubison, D.S.C., R.N.
commanding the 1st M/R.F., sailed
Fidget, Jacketa, Lord Cavan, and
with its five drifters, the Fisher Boy
2200
Silver Dawn from Ramsgate for Dunkirk.
The flotilla arrived off the beaches.
There is no report of the Fisher Boy's proceedings,
but she disembarked troops at Ramsgate as follows:
29th May
Disembarked 144 troops. (2)
30th May
0815
At Ramsgate, disembarked 200 troops. (3)
31st May
0540
At Ramsgate, disembarked 233 troops. (4)
2040
At Ramsgate, disembarked 200. (4)
Total 777
Authority - R.O.III, p.332.
0210
1850
0130
(1) According to June 1940 Navy List.
(2) (3) D.R. Estimated. Yewdale and Fisher Boy 150. disembarked 1090
(4) Ramagate
(Ramsgate report). D.R. gives
(1) The report.
0900.
317

Details

SEQUACITY (1)
M/V (F.T. Everard
& Sons Ltd.)
Capt. J. Macdonald.
0400
27th May
Left Yewdale. the Downs in company with S.S.
2
0640
Off batteries. Calais. Under fire from
main side, at the waterline through
port One shell came shore
p-
side. hold, and went out the starboard in the
Next of the shot came through the side
engine room and smashed port
starboard action. side. Pumps put out of
auxiliary engines; it went out the the
Third shot came through the wheel
house, went through the hatches, down
the forehold and through the ship's
bottom. Ship then shaped course
er
away from the shore.
Attacked by 11 planes. Another shell
put the Bren gun out of action and
wounded the chief engineer.
Wind freshened, ship making water and
took a nasty list.
0820ca
Signalled to Yewdale (which had been
1010
picking up some men on a raft).
Launched life boat and transferred
crew to the Yewdale.
1020ca
Sequacity went down by the head and sank
1630
1
1800
Nil
for
I
Authority - TM. 6213/40.
by 1)
in
La
Cow
to
let
0830
of troops
a
the
to
the
to
0845
the
[Lt.
and
the
in
and
e
(1) Not mentioned in D.R. Sequacity was a vessel of about 900
tons gross.
121

Details

YEWDALE( 1)
Shipping Ltd.
John Stewart & Co.
0400
Captain E. Jones.
27th May
0640
Sailed Twequacity ine Downs with the M/V
0700
Picked Shelled hit Shelling original Zagged amidships. by to shore batteriater increased. The Sequacity resumed Zig-
0820
Calais) up 5 men on a raft (from
Downs German channel. for hands. when They north Decided stated of Dunkirk Dunkirk to return was to in
and which destroyed the rafts by
aircraft, information. Gunned
1010
a life boat.
The her Sequacity crew. began to sink. Embarked
1020ca
The Sequacity "sank in position 52°
1230
04' 20" N., 1° 38' 36" E. approx.
Arrived Downs. Provisioned ship.
28th May
2230
Left Downs, the M. V's Beal and
Bullfinch in company.
29th May
0430
Arrived La Panne. Anchored. Later,
moved down channel. Picked up 2
boats with 10 soldiers in them.
Sent in ships boats for troops.
Assisted by several M/L's.
1230
500 troops on board.
1430
About 1000 troops on board - ship
filled to capačity.
1435
Closed a destroyer for advice.
1600
Air attack. Proceeded in company with
the destroyer and Beal.
1650/
Air attacks. 5 killed, 78 wounded.
1800
Six soldiers jumped overboard. One
A/C shot down by ship's gun.
Wireless and Compass smashed; steered
by small field compass.
2310
One mile off Deal pier. Waited till
dawn.
30th May
0600
A doctor arrived. Yewdale ordered to
0930
Disembarked Ramsgate. 940 troops at Ramsgate(2)
-
Proceeded to Sheerness for repairs.
Total 240 890
Authority T.M. 6213/40.
8 A tramp Rate of 823 tons gross. Not mentioned in D.R.
report.
251

Details

Details

Details

MONDAY, 27TH MAY
CHAP. IV
task now is to evacuate to England maximum of your force possible."¹ No
policy had yet been laid down by French G.Q.G., or any other French higher
authority, for a withdrawal northward of the Lys, and, says Lord Gort, "I had
no idea what plans either he [General Blanchard] or Admiral Abrial had in
mind".'
Lord Gort failed to contact General Blanchard either at La Panne, or at the
French naval headquarters, situated at Bastion No. 32, Dunkirk. While at the
Bastion, however, at 2300, he was informed in the course of conversation with
General Koeltz (General Weygand's deputy) that the King of the Belgians
had asked for an armistice from midnight that night. The British Commander-
in-Chief thus found himself suddenly faced with an open gap of 20 miles between
Ypres and the sea, through which enemy armoured forces might reach the
beaches².
Owing to congestion on the roads Lord Gort was unable to reach his head-
quarters at Houtkerque until 0430 on 28th May; he then found that a telegram
had been received from the War Office at 0130/28 saying that the King of the
Belgians was capitulating at midnight, 27th/28th May.³
This was the derelict situation facing Lord Gort in the early hours of the
morning.
Dunkirk locks prepared for demolition
On the 27th May, on the orders of Admiral Abrial, the Royal Naval
demolition party which had arrived at Dunkirk on the 23rd May placed
demolition charges at the New, the Trystram and the Guillain locks in Dunkirk
harbour.
Route Z under fire Route Y adopted Route x prepared
Owing to the great lack of inshore craft for beach work the main naval effort
during the day had been confined to maintaining the flow of personnel vessels
to Dunkirk at the rate of 2 every 31/2 hours. Even this limited transport service
had been seriously interrupted by the fire of shore batteries between Les
Hemmes (east of Calais) and Gravelines. At 0623 the Biarritz and Archangel,
en route for Dunkirk escorted by the destroyer Verity, were shelled 6 miles
E.N.E. of Calais. The Biarritz was hit several times and had 1 killed and 2
wounded. The Archangel was also apparently damaged, and neither ship
took any further part in "Dynamo". At 0640, the M/V Sequacity and the
freighter Yewdale were also shelled off Calais. The Sequacity was hit four
times, and at 1020, when north of Dunkirk channel, after the crew had been
transferred to the Yewdale, the Sequacity went down by the head and sank.
At 0750 the armed boarding vessel Mona's Isle, loaded with troops, suffered
severe casualties and damage from shore guns off Gravelines, and also from
an air attack shortly afterwards, and had to go into dock for repairs. At
0800 the H/C Isle of Thanet was shelled off Calais and returned to Dover. At
0900, the A.B/V King Orry, returning from Dunkirk loaded with troops also
suffered casualties and damage from the Calais guns.
As a result of these happenings the Vice-Admiral, Dover, reported to the
Admiralty that the normal or southern route, Dover to Dunkirk (later known
as Route Z), was impracticable in daylight. Another, more northern route
(later known as Route Y), via the Dyck Whistle buoy, Middelkerk buoy, and
Zuydcoote Pass, was accordingly adopted. This, however, increased the
I Lord Gort's Second Despatch, para. 51.
2 Lord Gort's Second Despatch, para. 49.
3 Lord Gort's Second Despatch 50.
19

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. V
off Dunkirk at 1315. They had picked up that morning from arrived
The destroyers Codrington, Jaguar and Javelin, 33 survivors diverted from patrol,
S.S. Abukir, which had been torpedoed by United an E-boat while returning the
about 200 evacuees from Ostend to Grenade the which Kingdom; these survivors with
Javelin Dunkirk. were transferred using The their Codrington to own the boats, destroyer went embarked into Dunkirk troops harbour, from subsequently Bray while beach. the went Jaguar At on 1730 and to
the Grenade left Dunkirk with 1,000 troops on board.
skoot Lena. The Vimy also made a second
359 troops from Zuydcoote, assisted by ships' a the second.t.Bip,embarked
Between 1230 and 1815 the Vivacious, a her
Dunkirk harbour.
More ships were on the way. From 1230 onwards 19 minesweepers were
sailed from Harwich, from Dover and the Downs, for Dunkirk and the beaches.
By 2130 five of them had arrived off Bray beach I, and four off La Panne²;
three reached Dunkirk by 2140³.
Four other minesweepers arrived off the beaches late on the night of
28th/29th May4, and two more reached the beaches at 0600/29⁵.
Early on the 28th May the eight ships of the 7th and 8th minesweeping
flotillas had been ordered from Rosyth to Harwich, to work under the orders
of the Vice-Admiral, Dover⁶; they could not, however, reach the beaches
until about 72 hours later.
During the forenoon and afternoon of the 28th May the call went out for
more and more destroyers, and seven reached the evacuation area next day⁷.
In the signals from the Admiralty and the Vice-Admiral, Dover, summoning
them there sounds the same note of extreme urgency, traceable to S.N.O.
Dunkirk's message⁸ declaring that evacuation on the night of 28th/29th May
was problematical. "If the older class destroyers and other vessels cannot
compete with the situation signalled the Admiralty, destroyers of all classes
are to be used for bringing men off'.9 Every available destroyer" in the
Western Approaches and Portsmouth Commands was to be sailed to Dover.
Destroyers on patrol or on escort duty were to be diverted to Dunkirk or the
beaches.¹¹
Vulnerability of personnel vessels
The vulnerability of the personnel vessels, with their large troop-carrying
capacity, was a cause of anxiety. On the 27th May the Biarritz and Archangel,
the Mona's Queen, King Orry, Sequacity, Yewdale, and the Isle of Thanet12,
I The Albury, Gossamer, Leda, Kellett and Sutton.
2 The Salamander, Halcyon, Skipjack and Waverley.
3 The Ross, Pangbourne and Lydd.
4 The Hebe, Sharpshooter, Duchess of Fife snd Emperor of India.
5 The Oriole and Marmion.
6
A.M.0163/28.
7 The Verity, Harvester, Esk, Malcolm, Express, Shikari and Scimitar.
8 Appendix M.4.
9 A.M.0754/28.
10 A.M.1229/28.
11 Appendices D.4, D.5 and D.7.
collided with the Examination Service Vessel leaving Ocean Reward, which sank
12 At 0254, on 28th May, shortly after Dover for Newhaven, the Isle of Thanet
Assisted by the tug Lady Brassey, a search was made for survivors, but none was found.
28

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Calcutta contacts Lord Gort
On receipt of this signal at 0345 the Calcutta, which had already been embark-
ing troops from La Panne beach, sent her boats in again, in charge of Mr. F.J.
March, Gunner. Mr. March made personal contact with Lord Gort about
8 miles inland, and placed the Calcutta at his disposal for his or his staff's evacua-
tion. Lord Gort, however, courteously refused to be evacuated at this
stage¹.
La Panne beach cleared of troops
Meanwhile the Calcutta was proceeding with the embarkation, having en-
listed the assistance of the minesweepers Sutton and Salamander, the tug Java,
five drifters2, and three motor launches³. By 1357 the Calcutta had embarked
1200 troops, with whom she proceeded to Sheerness.
In addition to the ships assisting the Calcutta, 7 minesweepers4, 4 skoots5,
and 5 destroyers⁶ also embarked troops from La Panne beach. Of the
destroyers, the Greyhound was bombed and severely damaged (see p.42).
The minesweepers embarked, in all, 3415 troops, the skoots 1137 and the des-
troyers 2100. The tramp Yewdale and the motor vessels Beal and Bullfinch
between them brought off 1,854. The assault landing craft A.L.C.15 ferried
about 750 troops from the beaches to off-lying ships, and finally transported
25 to Dover ; the A.L.C.5 also ferried troops throughout the day.
The paddle-minesweeper Oriole had beached herself at La Panne at about
0600, thus permitting about 2,500 troops to pass over her decks to be embarked
by other ships before she refloated at about 1800. In this connection, Sub-
Lieut. Croswell, who had been landed at La Panne at about 0600 with a small
beach party in the Harvester's motor skiff, says : " On the beach we found
14 boats which we launched. A line ferry was established from a paddle-
steamer [the Oriole] which was aground close inshore, and this steamer served
as a pier alongside which other boats were able to come.
Throughout
the
day embarkation continued."
Later in his report, Sub-Lieut. Croswell says " About 1400
bombing
commenced - there were no casualties though 8 heavy bombs fell within 100
yards of the place of embarkation. A supply ship [the danlayer Nautilus]
to the right of the beach was fired and destroyed by a near miss, and a destroyer
[the Greyhound] was hit by an incendiary bomb [in fact she was severely
damaged by a near miss] but continued in action. I joined up with the Army
Staff controlling evacuation - there were no other naval officers at La Panne.⁷
About 2300
I requested that piers should be built but was told nothing
could be done that night.
Lord Gort arrived on the beach on Thursday
morning [30th May] and asked what could be done to assist. I again sug-
gested erection of piers, and under Colonel Porter's direction this was begun,
the pier at La Panne being ready and in use by 1400".
I Calcutta's report.
2 The Golden Sunbeam, Lord Rodney, Lord Keith, Lord St. Vincent, and Lord Collingwood.
3 The Angler II, Nayland and New Britannic.
4 The Emperor of India, Gracie Fields, Halcyon, Hebe, Oriole, Princess Elizabeth and
Waverley.
5 The Reiger, Doggersbank, Jutland and Oranje.
6 The Shikari, Harvester, Anthony, Sabre and Greyhound.
7 Sub. Lt. Croswell was not given orders by his commanding officer to remain ashore.
He says as at La Panne there was no liaison between Army and Navy, I realised I could
do a much more useful job by remaining there," and he stayed there until 1st June. Com-
menting on this, Lt. Cdr. M. Thornton, R.N., Captain of the Harvester says: " This young
officer wisely accepted responsibility of missing his ship and then took charge of the beaches
and embarkation.
(C.W.23187/40.)
47

Details

Details

INDEX
Whitshed : at Boulogne, 9-10; in Dynamo, 97, 102-3, 107, 109 (sent back almost empty),
112n, 114n, 118 (takes over pier party).
Whittle, Lieut. L. C., R.N.R., 13n.
Widgeon, 34, 69.
Wilcoxon, S.Lt. R. O., R.N.V.R., mortally wounded, 52.
Wild Swan, at Boulogne, 9-10; at Dunkirk, 16.
Willing Boys, 13n.
Winche sea, 55, 64n, 70, 87, 97, 102-3, 107-8.
Windsor : at Boulogne, 9-10; at Calais, 13; in Dynamo, 16, 23, 24n, 30 (damaged), 55,
58 (hoists flag of R.A. Dover), 81, 97, 101-2 (quick turn round), 107-8, 127.
Wise, Lt. J. N., R.N.V.R., 115.
Wolfe, 72n.
Wolfhound, 21, 22 (damaged), 23-5, 27.
Wolsey, 16, 21, 67 (W/T. link), 23-5, 27, 54n, 61 (reports on conditions), 62 (makes two
trips on 30th May), 64n, 83 (in collision).
Wolves, 69.
Worcester, 20n, 27, 54n, 55, 58 (hoists flag of R.A. Dover), 60, 74, 76n, 79 (takes out beach
parties), 87-9, (damaged), 92.
Worthing, 17, 22n, 24, 104 (attacked).
Wounded, see Casualties.
Wrecks, growing number, 94: at Dunkirk, 115.
Wynne-Edwards, Lt. Cdr. C.J., 67, 71, 75.
X.95, 72m.
X.149, sunk, 72.
X.209, 72n.
X.213, sunk, 72.
X.217, 72.
Yarmouth base, drifters, 71n.
Y.C.63, 72n.
Yewdale, 19, 28, 47.
Yorkshire Lass, 23n, 62, 63, 107n.
Young Mun, 23n.
Yser, 27, 31.
Yvonne, 73.
Zuydcoote, see Beaches.
208

Details

Details

30
21st June, 1940.
DearMaia
You have perhaps seen in to-day's Press that I have written letters
to the Masters of ships engaged in the recent operations off Dunkirk
and Calais in order to express to them the Government's high
appreciation of the courage and endurance displayed.
I have written to Chief Officer E. Irvine of the "Firth Fisher"
and asked him to convey the Government's appreciation to the surviving
members of the ship's company, but I feel I cannot let the occasion pass
without writing to you to express my profound sympathy in the great loss
which you have suffered in the death of your husband, Captain J.O.Roberts
in this action.
I hope you will be able to draw comfort from the thought that he
was killed in action in the face of the enemy doing his duty to his
country and his comrades.
YOURS SINCERELY,
I
Mrs. Roberts.
of the S.V. "ROYALTY". "ETHEL
158
Yours faithfully,
85
F.T. EVERARD FSBackur & SONS LED
Director.
LORINA
NORMANNI
WOR
/CANTERBU
MAID OR
London,
YEWDALE
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Lou.,
/BIARRITZ
308 Clyde Street,
/AUTOCARRI
Glasgow, C.1.
YEWGLEN
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Capt R.
308, Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.
010536 80m In all 6/418. & Co. 745(8)

Details

go
ration
on
Merchant
and
cuation was This difficulties your destined Ship' to occupy adventure and pages that of
endurance felt for felt frometion, carried of operat Navy your for Dunkirk I joined am to the proud never played in help successful Company as which to before partners by pay tugs you in a tribute N conclusion experienced Place and of great the other of and fighting honour your in in humane units the share war, in face services, of the the
members behalf of the Ship' Government Company freely to given convey the all Eratitude in and titude to the tude
20th June, 1940.
F.T. EVERARD & SONS, LT
DIRECTORS
EVERARD
22 & SHIPOWNERS.STREET, 23 GT.
EVERARD
3
EVERARD
M.I.N.A.
M.I.N.A.
LONDON, E.C.3.
EVERARD
EVERARD,
M.I.M.E.
SHIPYARD & WHARE GREENHITHE, KENT
YOUR REF
ant
non
OUR REF.
NAB
Minister of Shipping.
of
Esq.,
&
1
Berkeley Square
W.I.
Dear Sir,
We are in receipt of your le
inst., enclosing letters address
19th Masters of our M.V. "SEQUACITY" and 1
we are forwarding to them.
We would draw your attention
Sailing Vessels "ETHEL EVERARD"
our also engaged in the Dunkirk open
were be abandoned on the beach, by instr
Naval Officer in charge.
We shall therefore be obli
kindly send us letters similar to
pass same to Captain T. Willis
to
may EVERARD" and Captain H. Miller of
Yours faithful
F.T. EVER
ade
JAHIIRIA EDIV
.076I ' aund 2074
DIRECTORS
EVERARD
EVERARD
EVERARD
M.I.N.A.
3
M.I.N.A.
W.J. EVERARD EVERARD, M.I.M.E.
WORTHING
LORINA
John London, & (
don, E.
NORMANNI
t & CO.
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
de Street
MAID OR
John
it asgow, & Co St
/BIARRITZ
YEWGLEN
AUTOCARRI
and
should
(4182) Ww.15905/0586 80m In all 6/44 0. & Co. 745(8)
NOT
be
exhibited

Details

THE BEN LINE STEAMERS LTD,
28
THE PETROGRAD STEAMERS LTD.
WM. THOMSON & CO.
MANAGERS
—
28 Bernard Street,
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS:
"THOMSON, LEITH."
—
Leith,
20th June,
1940.
TELEPHONE: LEITH 35652-3-4
PARTNERS
E.
W. THOMSON.
E. G. THOMSON.
Sir J. D. W. THOMSON, Bart.
A. M. MITCHELL
The Private Secretary,
Minister of Shipping,
London.
Dear Sir,
"BENLAWERS"
We have to thank you for your letter of yesterday.
We will have great pleasure in sending on to the
Master of our above vessel the Minister's letter, which we
have not the least doubt all on board will greatly appreciate.
Yours truly,
Va.
/LORINA
WORTHING
NORMANNI
John " Stewart London, & Street, Co. D.V. Shipping Ltu.,
/CANTERBU
308 Clyde
Capt R.
MAID OR
YEWDALE
John stewart & CO. Street, Shipping
Glasgow, C.1. Ltd.,
/BIARRITZ
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde C.1.
AUTOCARRI
Glasgow,
(4182)
Wt.10

Details

y.02M
AYZER, IRVINE & Co, LTD.
TELEPHONE Hook 168 (3 LINES)
27
MANAGERS OF
HE CLAN LINE STEAMERS LTD.
TYLNEY HALL,
LONDON, GLASGOW & LIVERPOOL.
TELEGRAMS:
ROTHERWICK,
"CAYZER, Hook, HANTS"
OUR REFCE FB/NT.
"CAYZER, GLASGOW"
"CAYZER, LIVERPOOL"
YOUR "
BASINGSTOKE, HANTS.
20th June. 1940.
The Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House.
LONDON. W.1.
THIS in JUN RECEIVED 19/10/10 13 21 1940
Dear Sirs,
We are in receipt of your letter of
yesterday, enclosing letter addressed to Captain Mackie
of the "CLAN MACALISTER" in regard to the evacuation from
Dunkirk, for which we thank you. We shall have pleasure
in forwarding same to Captain Mackie.
Yours faithfully,
per pro CAYZER, ARVINE & CO., LTD.
General Manager.
WORTHERN
LORINA
John London, CO. E.V. Shipping Ltd.,
NORMANNI
Capt R.
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
MAID OR
John Ltd.,
/BIARRITZ
YEWGLEN
308, C.1.
Glasgow,
/AUTOCARRI

Details

Details

Mr. Keenlyside
P.i./62
Ministry of Shipping Announcement.
25
Not to be published or broadcast before
Friday morning, June 21.
The following letter has been sent by the Minister of Shipping to the
masters of 91 ships of the Merchant Navy which took part in the
evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk:-
"17th June, 1940.
I write on behalf of the Government to convey to you and to the members
of your Ship's Company the gratitude and admiration felt for the help freely
given and the courage and endurance displayed by you all in the evacuation
from Dunkirk,
This operation, in which the Merchant Navy joined as partner of the
fighting services, was carried to a successful conclusion in the face of
difficulties never before experienced in war.
I am proud to pay tribute to your share and that of your Ship's
Company in a great and humane adventure destined to occupy a place of
honour in the pages of history.
(signed) RONALD CROSS.
Minister of Shipping. "
Of the 91 ships, 57 were passenger and store ships, and 34 were tugs.
In addition to these, the Ministry of Shipping has the names of over 600
smaller craft which went to take part in the operation, and the list is not
yet complete.
WORTHIGHT
LORINA
NORMANNI
John " stewart London, & Street, Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Capt R. -
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
MAID OR
John Stewart Ltd.,
/BIARRITZ
YEWGLEN
308, C.1.
Glasgow,
/AUTOCARRI

Details

CSW
S
GULAR SERVICE
c
W
24
LL.TH
S
TELEPHONE: LEITH 37088-9
BOSTON
TELEGRAMS: "TRANSHIP. EDINBURGH"
LONDON
SCOTTISH Co-operative WHOLESALE Society LTD.
allow
amm
Lap
-
HB/MS
COASTAL SHIPPING DEPARTMENT.
6 JOHN'S PLACE.
LEITH, 20th June 19⁴⁰.
The Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.1.
Dear Sir,
I have to thank you for your letter of 19th June,
together with letter addressed to Captain Robertson of our ship
"Scottish Co-operator" in relation to services rendered by his
and other merchant ships during the evacuation of Dunkirk.
We confirm that this covers the only ship owned
by this Society which could be engaged on the service above
mentioned and in accordance with your request, the letter is being
sent on to Captain Robertson. Before doing so, however, we are
making a slight correction as the initials of the Captain are
"T.S." and not "T.F." as shown. The matter will now be in
order if your own records are adjusted accordingly.
as
yours faithfully,
Hunger Transport Manager.
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
NORMANNI
John " Stewart London, & E.Shipping Ltd.,
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,1.
Capt R.
MAID OR
John stewart Glasgow, & Co. Street, Shipping Ltd.,
/BIARRITZ
AUTOCARRI
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde C.1.
Glasgow,

Details

PHONE:-
CORHAM 2851.
23
22
24, NORTHLANDS ROAD,
IF
21st June, 1940.
Co. SOUTHAMPTON.
AND House
20th June, 1940.
344, THE HIGHWAY
Dear Sir,
Thank you for your letter of the 20th
LONDON, E.I.
June and for pointing out the inaccuracies
19th June 1940
to the name of the Master of the m.v.
as "Ngaroma". I am enclosing a new letter made
out to the Master's correct name, and I shall
be glad if you will destroy the other one.
Yours faithfully,
F. H. KEENLYCIDE
the 19th instant
ng forwarded
/v "NGAROMA ment
private Secretary.
I beg to
Dickenson
and Crews.
M
Iteration,
W. A. Wilson Esq.
king part in
The name of
in
this have therefore
instance.
their small vessels in that the evacuation they from DO Dunkirk. take
our Officers and
part with
Yours faithfully,
The
for
1
FREE
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
2,
NORMANNI
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Lime London, E.C.2.
Caps.
/CANTERBU
MAID OR
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/BIARRITZ
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
/AUTOCARRI
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.
Wt.15908/5586
30m In all
6/44 C.

Details

PHONE:-
TEMPORARY ADDRESS
CORHAM 2851.
22
W. A. WILSON,
24, NORTHLANDS ROAD,
TRADE WHARF
Shipober and Broker,
Co. SOUTHAMPTON.
Stebedore and Chartering Agent.
Your REF.
OUTHERLAND
20th House June, 1940.
TELEPHONE
888/844, THE HIGHWAY
SOUTHAMPTON 3189.
LONDON, E.I.
TELEGRAMS : ING
3
SONWIL, SOUTHAMPTON.
F. E. Keenlyside,
19th June 1940
F.H. Keenlyside Esq,
Private Secretary, of Shipping,
Ministry of Shipping, Square House,
Berkeley Square House, W. 1.
Berkeley Square,
LONDON. W.1.
Dear
Dear Sir: thank for your the 29th instant
to of
I am extremely grateful to you for having forwarded
letter of recognition to the Master of the m/v "NGAROMA".
In These accordance with your inquiry however, I beg to
inform you the Masters! name is Captain J.W. Dickenson
and not T. Dickinson as given. by Crews.
Do you wish me to return the letter for alteration,
you the or will you issue another letter? is part
the
The
of
and
we
have
of
therefore
in
this
instance.
W/S
11
allowed
Yours faithful Millisa
Crews Feel that to take part with
Officers and
their in the evacuation Dunkirk.
Yours faithfully,
The
Capt. E.
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
NORMANNI
John Stewart & street, Ltd.,
3,
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
John stewart Glasgow, & Co. Street, Shipping Ltd.,
308 Clyde
C.1.
Capt R.
/MAID OR
/BIARRITZ
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde C.1.
/AUTOCARRI
Glasgow,
(4182)
30m
all
6/41
O. & Co.
745(8)
and

Details

'PHONE:-
TEMPORARY ADDRESS
COBHAM 2851.
OHE
AMS: "FREETRADER, PHONE, LONDON."
CITY OFFICE: 37 MARK LANE, E.C.3.
HONE: STEPNEY GREEN 1200 (16 LINES).
TELEPHONE: MANSION HO. 2394 & 3997.
GIE
914069028
FREE TRADE WHARF Co. LTD.
21
DIRECTORS
SUTHERLAND HOUSE,
CHAIRMAN SIR ARTHUR M. SUTHERLAND.
BART.. K.B.E., D.L., J.P.
CLAUD E. PEASE. J.P.
338/344, THE HIGHWAY,
H. ARMSTRONG.
F. WHITTOCK, MANAGING DIRECTOR.
F. G. HOSKING. SECRETARY.
LONDON, E.1.
3
TYNE-TEES STEAM SHIPPING Co., Ltd.,
NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE.
19th June 1940
F. H. Keenlyside, Esq.,
Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
London, W. 1.
Dear Sir,
We thank you for your kind letter of the 19th instant,
enclosing separate letters to each Captain of the Tyne-Tees
Steam Shipping Company's vessels who took part in the recent
evacuation from Dunkirk.
These letters will be handed over to the Officers
concerned, and we are quite sure the sentiments expressed
therein will be very highly valued by the Officers and Crews.
We would mention that the four ships to whose Masters
you have addressed letters were the only ones taking part in
the evacuation, so that there is no omission. The name of
the BEAL's Captain was Liley, not "Miley", and we have therefore
corrected the spelling of the Captain's name in this instance.
If we may be allowed to say so, all our Officers and
Crews feel very proud that they were able to take part with
their small vessels in the evacuation from Dunkirk.
Yours faithfully,
For and sh behalf of
Forerwhestock FREE TRADE WHARF CO. LTD.
Managing Directure
Capt. E.
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
John Stewart & Street, Ltd.,
3,
NORMANNI
Capt R.
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
MAID OR
John stewart & streat, Shiping States Ltd.,
/BIARRITZ
/AUTOCARRI
YEWGLEN
308, C.1.
Glasgow,
(4182) 1508/558686 30m in all 6/41 & Co. 745(8)
and
should
NOT
be
exhibited

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

NE
Temporary Addres
TELEGRAMS:
CONSTANT MIDDLESBROUGH
Telephone:
AMOUNT NUMBER &SCOTTISH PATIENT
L.M.S. Headquarters,
TELEPHONE 3445
17
WATFORD,
HERTS.
EUSTON 1234.
TELEPHONE WATFORD 6051-8
***
Ext.29
GLYNNE ROBERTS,
Secretary of the Company
Custon Station, London, P.OULI.
YORK HOUSE,
&Assistant to President.
MIDDLESBROUGH.
20th June, 1940
1
20th June 1940.
Dear Sir,
3
I desire to acknowledge and
thank you for your letter of
yesterday's date transmitting sealed
letters from the Minister of
Shipping to the Officers who had
command of the "Princess Maud" and
"Scotia" in the recent evacuation
from Dunkirk, which I have had much
t of your letter of the
pleasure in passing forward to the
O note that the Minister
Officers concerned.
e the services of the
ng the evacuation from
Yours faithfully,
Oseyme Robert
1 appreciated by the
ws of these vessels.
aged for Chartering
Secretary.
aken the liberty of
#
vest Shipping Co., Ltd.,
r. to forward this to their
The Private Secretary to
The Minister of Shipping,
The Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
ly,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.1.
MSHIP LINE LTD,
for
SECRETARY.
(J.LAMB.)
Is
CITY
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
3, Lime Street
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
NORMANI
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
/CANTERI
MAID OF
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
John stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/BIARRIT
/AUTOCAR
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.
(4182)
Wt.15908/5536

Details

CONSTANTINE LINE
TELEGRAMS:
JOSEPH CONSTINTINE PING C Lip LINE LTD
CONSTANT MIDDLESBROUGH
TELEPHONE 3445
17
LONDON OFFICE
YORK HOUSE,
JOSEPH CONSTANTINE & NS,(LONDON) LTD.
BALTIC EXCHANGE BUILDINGS,
19-21, BURY STREET,
MIDDLESBROUGH.
LONDON, E.C.3.
CANADIAN OFFICE.
JOSEPH CONSTANTINE STEAMSHIP LINE LTD.
309, BOARD OF TRADE BUILDING,
MONTREAL,P.Q.
S/A.11
20th June 1940.
The Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
LONDON, W.1.
Dear Sir,
We have to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the
19th June, and we are very pleased to note that the Minister
of Shipping has seen fit to recognise the services of the
Ships "Levenwood" and "Corinia" during the evacuation from
Dunkirk.
This letter will be very much appreciated by the
Captain, Officers, Engineers and Crews of these vessels.
The "Corinia" being only managed for Chartering
purposes by this Company, we have taken the liberty of
sending your letter on to The Northwest Shipping Co., Ltd.,
the
Workington, who will no doubt prefer to forward this to their
Master direct.
Yours faithfully,
FOR AND ON BEHALF OF
JOSEPH CONSTANTINE STEAMSHIP LINE LTD,
(J.LAMB.) SECRETARY.
Is
Comben 1
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
enemy acti/
NORMAN
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
/CANTER
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
MAID OF
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/BIARRIT
John stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
/AUTOCAR
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.

Details

108E6H cowe COME
16
SALES & OFFERS ARE MADE SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS OF OUR FORM OF CONTRACT INCLUDING WAR, STRIKE, LOCKOUT & ACCIDENT CLAUSES & ACCEPTANCE
ALL RETURN OF POST UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED. DUES, WHARFAGE & EXPORT TAX, IF ANY, TO BE PAID BY PURCHASER, UNLESS OTHERWISE STIPULATED
STEPHENSON CLARKE AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES LIMITED.
TELEPHONE: MANSION HOUSE 3270. TELEGRAMS: STEPHENSON CLARKE, BILGATE, LONDON.
DIRECTORS:
LOCAL DIRECTORS AND BRANCHES:
LORD HYNDLEY, G.B.E., CHAIRMAN
EWART R EVANS.
CARDIFF.
JOHN P. STEPHENSON CLARKE.
JAMES C. GALBRAITH,
GLASGOW.
VICE-CHAIRMAN
H.R. STEVENS,
MIDLAND AREA
NORMAN BELLERBY.
J.C. FLISHER
EDWIN WILLIAM GANDERTON.
WILLIAM WAUGH
NEWCASTLE-UPON TYNE.
JOHN CRANDON GRIDLEY.
BELFAST. BIRMINGHAM. FORTH PORTS.
WILLIAM R.HANN.
HULL. LIVERPOOL. NEWPORT.
WILLIAM McGILVRAY.
4, ST DUNSTANS ALLEY.
NOTTINGHAM. SHEFFIELD. SOUTHAMPTON.
FREDERICK CHARLES PILLEY,
WEST HARTLEPOOL.ETC.
JOSEPH W. RODGERSON,
LONDON, E.C.3.
GP
20th June, 1940.
F. H. Keenlyside, Esq.,
The Private Secretary,
Minister of Shipping,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square, W. I.
Dear Sir,
We beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the
19th instant, and the letter you have been kind enough to enclose
for Captain C. G. West, O.B.E., who is in command of our S.S.
"NEPHRITE" will be handed over in due course. As you are aware,
this steamer is still running under Government requisition, and it
may therefore be a few days before we can pass on your communication.
With regard to the second paragraph of your letter, the S.S.
"NEPHRITE" was the only one of our vessels that actively assisted
in the evacuation from Dunkirk, but in addition, our S.S. "PETWORTH"
was diverted from her regular trade and we understand, in accordance
with orders, stood by at Dover in case she was required.
Yours faithfully,
Is
N
Comben, Longstaff & CO., Lta.,
WILLIAMSTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
London, E.C.3.
Capt. R. Th
LADY O
Comben Longstaff & Square, Co., Ltd.,
essel acto
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
3, Lime street
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
NORMAND
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
/CANTERE
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
MAID OR
John stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/BIARRITI
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
AUTOCAR
Glasgow, C.1.

Details

15
CMBEN LONGSTAFF & Co. LTD
AND AT
TELEGRAMS WILCOMLON, FEN, LONDON
WHITSTABLE
TELEPHONES MANSION HOUSE 1932 (2 LINES).
SHIPOWNERS,
SHIP AND INSURANCE BROKERS.
6,
DIRECTORS:
W.COMBEN LONGSTAFF.
W.H. POWELL.
CL
3& & 4, LIME STREET SQUARE,
BROOK SHIPPING Co LTD
WOODTOWN SHIPPING Co LTP
WILLIAMSTOWN SHIPPING CO LTP
LONDON, E.C.3.
20th June, 1940.
F.H. Keenlyside Esq.,
Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square. W.1.
Dear Sir,
We have to acknowledge the letters addressed to
the Masters of our vessels, which we are transmitting to them.
We feel sure they will be gratified to receive the Minister's
e
appreciation of their services.
Yours faithfully.
FOR AND ON BEHALF OF
COMBEN LONGSTAFF & Co., LTD.
DIRECTOR.
S
on.
nal
The Is
London, B.U.
caps.
N
Comben, Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
WILLIAMSTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
LADY 01
Comben Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
London, E.C.3.
Capt. R. Th
enemy acto
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
NORMANN
CANTERE
MAID OR
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
C.1.
Capt R.
John Stewart Glasgow, & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
BIARRIT
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
AUTOCARI
Glasgow, C.1.

Details

M38
A.L. GIBSON
Letters to be addressed
NTINENTAL TRAFFIC MANAGER
14
KVW
L.H. K. NEIL
THE CONTINENTAL TRAFFIC MANAGER
ASST. CONTINENTAL TRAFFIC MANAGER
TELEPHONE BUCKHURST 2851
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
REFERENCE CH/400
NAT
SCHERE
26 GLENGALL ROAD
DISABLEONER
WOODFORD GREEN
ESSEX
F.H. Keenlyside, Esq.
20th June, 1940
Private Secretary to the Minister of Shipping,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W. 1
Dear Sir,
I am obliged for your communication of 19th
June, and shall have pleasure in transmitting the letter
you enclosed to the Officer concerned.
Yours faithfully, any
erts
f
e.
value this mark or your appreciation.
t
Yours faithfully,
S
rts
ald
The Isl
S
NOTICE ALL GOODS ARE CARRIED SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE COMPANY'S SHIPPING NOTE.
Comben Longstaff & CO.,
BEN
WESTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
London, E.C. 3.
Capt. M. McInn
Comben, Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
LADY O1
WILLIAMSTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
London, E.C.3.
Capt. R. Th
Comben Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
Vessel lo
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
3, Lime street Square,
enemy acti
NORMANN
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
CANTERB
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
MAID OR
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
John stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/BIARRIT2
/AUTOCARE
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
Glasgow, C.1.

Details

12
MINISTRY
OF
BERKELEY NOUSE,
BERXELEY SQUARE,
LONDON,W.I.
7th Juno, 1940.
19th June, 1940.
convey to you
Gentlemen,
e gratitude
The Minister of Shipping has asked
me to forward to you the enclosed
n and the
letter to the Officer who had command
of your vessel in the recent
a the
evacuation from Dunkirk. He would be
grateful if you would transmit the
letter to the Officer concerned. He
is advised that in some cases the
avy joined as
Officers may wish to post the letter
L to a
in their ship.
It will be observed that so far
ties nevor
as is known a letter has been addressed
to every Officer who had command of any
of your ships during the action. The
Minister would be grateful if you would
and that of
draw his attention to any omissions or
inaccuracies.
enture
Yours faithfully,
ages of
Private Secretary.
S
pping.
ST
ST
SI
PA
IS
DI
wo
ISI
FENEL)
MANXMA
F.T. Everard London, & Sons Ltd.,
SADALITY
22-23 Gt. Tower Street,
TYNWA
London, E.C. 3.
Car
Comben Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
WESTOWN
3, Lime Street square, 3.
BEN-M
Comben, Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
London, E.C.
Ca
WILLIAMSTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
LADY OF
London, E.C.3.
Ca
Comben Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
L
3, Lime Street Square,
Ф
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
London, E.C.3.
C
NORMANN
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
CANTERB
MAID OR
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Glasgow, C.1.
(
/BIARRITZ
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
AUTOCARE
Glasgow, C.1.

Details

Master of the
17th Juno, 1940.
R.
I write on behalf of the Government to convey to you
and to the members of your Ship's Company the gratitude
olfenden
by
and admiration felt for the help frecly given and the
courage and endurance displayed by you all in the
ton.
evacuation from Dunkirk.
This operation, in which the Merchant Navy joined as
vor.
partnor of the fighting services, was carried to a
Hughes.
successful conclusion in the face of difficulties never
mpson.
before experienced in war.
y enemy
J.O.Roberts
I am proud to pay tribute to your share and that of
ng Chief
Irvine.
your Ship's Company in a great and humane adventure
Mastin.
K
destined to occupy a place of honour in the pages of
Linn.
history.
Young.
Stewart
s
Minister of Shipping.
West, &
Dickenson.
Dickinson.
ST
ST
Vilson.
ST
F. Roberts
S
PAR
ISL
DIN
MacDonal
WOR
sunk by e
ISLI
¥. Roberts
FENELI
London, D.V.
MANXMA
F.T. Everard & Sons Ltd.,
SO ALITY
22-23 Gt. Tower Street,
TYNWAL
London, E.C. 3.
Capt. R.A. Shan
Comben Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
WESTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
BEN-MY
London, E.C. 3.
Capt. M. McInn
Comben, Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
WILLIAMSTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
LADY OF
Comben Longstaff & Co., Ltd.,
London, E.C.3.
Capt. R. Th
enemy acti
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
NORMANN
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
MAID OR
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/BIARRITZ
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
/AUTOCARR
Glasgow, C.1.

Details

OF WAR TRANSPORT
(160/m)
23/8/39
TELEPHONE CENTRAL 9156-9159
TELEGRAMS: TOPMAST GLASGOW
THE NEW BOE CODE
JOHN STEWART COMPANY SHIPPING
DIRECTORS MACFARLANE E.W. MACFARLANE W.G.WHITTON
Limited
SHIPOWNERS
308. CLYDE STREET
F.
ICM/HCD.
PROMPT MODERN TONNAGE
BRITISH COAST OR NEAR CONTINENT
GLASGOW
21st January 1941.
CARGOES 650 TO 1100 TONS
C.1
be
The Shipping Intelligence Pranch,
pr
Ministry of Shipping,
for
74
below
LONDON.
,
10
J
Dear Sirs,
Can
you
repairs
in
S.S. "YEWDALE"
you
We are informed by the Superintendent of the Ministry of
Shipping, James Watt Street, Glasgow, C.2. that you have not received a
report and particulars of the above steamer's ordeal at the Evacuation
of Dunkirk last year and we give you below the particulars asked for by
your Glasgow Office:-
DATE.- 26th/28th May, 1940.
TIME.- Vessel made one trip to Dunkirk on the 26th and a further
trip on the 28th May 1940 returning on the second occasion
with approximately 1,000 troops.
POSITION OF VESSEL AND CAUSE OF DAMAGE.- On the first trip to
Dunkirk our ship was shelled from shore batteries on the
other side, several times, causing holes in the ship's side an
on the second trip she suffered damage from shore batteries
and also when returning from Dunkirk by several attacks by
enemy Dive Dombers causing many holes in the hull above water
line and damage to the upper structures including the bridge.
We understood that you already had this information through the
Admiralty to whom we had given all particulars and details and our
Master also called on them at Whitehall in order that he could make a
6
statement. If there is any further information you desire perhaps you
I
will be good enough to let us know when we will be pleased to furnish
JOHN STEWART & CO. SHIPPING Ltd.
you with details.
Yours faithfully b. macfarlard Direc
10 THE CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS

Details

106
STATEMENT BY CAPTAIN J. MACDONALD, MASTER OF MOTOR VESSEL
95
ND & SONS LTD.
"SEQUACITY"
LONDON, E.C.3.
*
ST.
22 & 23, GREAT TOWER
We had been lying in the Downs for several days
and had instructions to proceed to Dunkirk af four a.m.
on Monday the 27th May, 1940 in company with the S.S.
"YEWDALE".
All went well until we arrived off Calais, then
I noticed some shells falling in the water ahead of us.
I then thought it was land batteries ashore firing at some
mines, but soon after the shells started dropping all
round my ship, and one came through the port side, at the
water line in the main hold and went out the starboard
side.
I sent my mate down in to the hold with some
of the crew to try and patch the hold up. The next sho came through
the port side of the engine room and smashed up the auxiliary
enginest that drove our dynamo etc., put our switchboard out of
action and went out the starboard side.
This put our pumps entirely out of action for
pumping water out of the hold.
Another shot came through the wheelhouse and
went through the hatches, down the forehold and right
through the ship's bottom.
We then shaped our course away from the shore
and the "YEWDALE" which was outside of us did likewise.
In the meantime eleven German planes appeared
overhead and bombed both the "YEWDALE" and ourselves.
Another shell burst over our fiddley and put the Bren gun
out of action, and wounded the chief engineer.

Details

In the meantime the wind increased and caused
96
a nasty chop on the sea, which allowed a lot of water
to come through the hole in our side, and as we were
unable to pump our hold out the ship began to take a nasty
list.
I blew for the "YEWDALE" to stand by us, but
he did not appear to notice our signal. A British plane
then appeared and saw the trouble we were in, and flew
ahead to the "YEWDALE" and dropped some red flares.
The "YEWDALE" then returned to us, and we launched
our lifeboat, and then after we got aboard the "YEWDALE"
she went down by the head and sunk.
I should add that in addition to the two soldiers
that worked our Bren gun, before we left the Downs we
took on a yound Naval rating named Evans with Lewis guns.
We had to fix these on the open bridge, and all the time
we were being attacked by the planes he kept up incessant
fire with the Lewis guns and stuck his job manfully.
The "YEWDALE" landed us at Ramgate.
Note.
The "YEWDALE" after landing the crew of the
"SEQUACITY" went back for another batch of soldiers to
Dunkirk. The was very badly knocked about on this voyage
and mate had to have his leg amputated. The captain
arrived back with his ship too badly damaged to proceed again,
but the master telephoned his owners asking then for another
ship to enable him to go back to Dunkirk again.
1.

Details

STATE
84
79
John THE wod edd. your
if
ENTRAL 9156-9159
OPMAST GLASGOW
BOE CODE
83
T.M. 6213/40/S.T.A.6.
25th August, 1940.
&
124
ANY SHIPPING
NERS
Limited
ons
Gentlemen, have to acknowledge the receipt
125
of your I letter EWM/MG of the 23rd instant
STREET
OW
&
thank you for the interesting
23rd August 1940.
and to of the Master of the s.s. "YEWDALE" vessel
report regarding the part played by his
in the Dunkirk operations.
6.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
we enclose herewith
(Sgd-) whipan
"YEWDALE" regarding
for Director of Sea Transport
f Dunkirk.
abl
have not yet been
send
& Co.
suitable, we shall
G Ltd.
ac/arlane Director
* 101 AUG * CENVED
4.30 29th and m.v. "BULLFINCH" and we arrived Downs in company
with m.v. DO carry. "BEAL" At 10.30 p.m. 28th May left expect and what
we
none I a.m. decided May. to move We down anchored the Channel to await orders but at Le as Panne, we received at
our boat out take them ashore again for more troops. leaving two men put
each ten troops soldiers boat were to gathering. in them. We When took shifting the men we on to picked board where up a large two boats number with of in
other years boats old) manned. MacKenzie later took charge MacKenzie the
(16 which A. Flett, G.A. Sutherland and G.A. We also
also steering took the charge boat. W. Watterson (Mate) and J. Runcie himself (Second Engineer)
and directed the soldiers who were rowing, of one of
The rest of of the boats and made several trips to beach.
Fred employed Williams in bringing the boats alongside with lines. Army were Captain
crew including the Chief Engineer and Firemen the
kept count of the men and at 12.30 p.m. he reckoned
-1-

Details

83
TELEPHONE CENTRAL 9156-9159
TELEGRAMS TOPMAST GLASGOW
THE NEW BOE CODE
JOHN STEWART&COMPANY SHIPPING
DIRECTORS 1.0 HACFARLANE E.W. MACFARLANE # WHITTON
Limited
EWM/MG.
SHIPOWNERS
125
308. CLYDE STREET
PROMPT MODERN TONNAGE
BRITISH COAST OR NEAR CONTINENT
CLASGOW
23rd August 1940.
CARGOES 650 TO 1100 TONS
C.1
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
London.
Dear Sir,
YOUR REF. T.M. 6213/40/S.T.A.6.
EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
In reply to your letter of 7th August, we enclose herewith
copy of reports received from the Master of the S.S. "YEWDALE" regarding
the part played by that vessel in the evacuation of Dunkirk.
So far as the "YEWGLEN" is concerned, we have not yet been
able to contact the Master, but if he has anything suitable, we shall
it
send/on to you.
Yours faithfully,
JOHN STEWART & CO. SHIPPING Ltd.
Towayartand
Director
AUG P x 72 2 RECENTED 10/11/21
with 00 carry. At 10.30 p.m. 28th May we WHICH left CO Downs expect in and company what
we
4.30 I a.m. 29th May. We anchored to await orders but as we received
m.v. "BEAL" and m.v. "BULLFINCH" and arrived at Le Panne, at
none decided to move down the Channel to where a large number of
troops were gathering. When shifting we picked up two boats with
ten soldiers in them. We took the men on board leaving two men in
each boat to take them ashore again for more troops. We also put
our boat out which A. Flett, G.A. Sutherland and G.A. MacKenzie
(16 years old) manned. MacKenzie later took charge of one of the
other boats and directed the soldiers who were rowing, himself
steering the boat. W. Watterson (Mate) and J. Runcie (Second Engineer)
also took charge of the boats and made several trips to the beach.
The rest of crew including the Chief Engineer and Firemen were
employed in bringing the boats alongside with lines. Army Captain
Fred Williams kept count of the men and at 12.30 p.m. he reckoned
-1-

Details

82
11th June, 1940.
(Tuesday)
S.S. "YEWDALE"
126
Master's Report of Evacuation of Troops from Dunkirk.
Sunday 26th May, 1940.
Whilst at anchor in the Downs I received orders from N.C.S.O. to
proceed to Dunkirk.
At 4.0 a.m. we hove up and proceeded in company with m.v. "SEQUACITY"
and passed Calais about 2 miles off at 6.40 a.m. with "SE UACITY"
about a quarter of a mile ahead. Twenty minutes later heavy gunfire
was heard and shells began to burst allaround the steamer. We
immediately took avoiding action by zig-zagging to seaward. Although
this involved the risk of striking mines, it appeared to me to be
safer than continuing on our course. This heavy firing continued
for about 20 minutes and seemed to be concentrated upon this steamer.
When haze appeared over the land firing ceased, and ship was brought
back on her course. Not long after when the weather cleared shelling
was resumed in much greater intensity and was directed mostly on
"SEQUACITY" which was about a quarter of a mile on our starboard bow.
We saw this ship being struck amidships and in engineroom as she was
altering course away from fire. At 8.20 а.ш. while still under fire
we managed to pick up five men on a raft who said they were solders
who had left Calais in the dark. They informed me that they believed
that Dunkirk had been captured by Germans. I then got in touch with
Master of "SEQUACITY" whose ship I could see was very badly damaged.
We were at this time north of Dunkirk channel about 1a miles north of
our course. As it meant coming back to the range of German guns to
get into Dunkirk, we decided to return to Downs for further information.
We were then attacked by 8 or 9 enemy Messerschmitt planes who swept
our decks with bullets destroying our rafts and port lifeboat. I
immediately sent out an S.O.S. Shortly afterwards the enemy disappear-
ed when British planes came on the scene. On the way back to Downs
at 10.10 a.m. "SEQUACITY" began to sink so we stood by and took on
board her crew while a British plane covered us until every man was on
board and only left us after we had given the signal that all was well.
The "SEQUACITY" sank in about 10 minutes from the time she began to
list (in position 52.04.20 N. and 1.38.36 E approximately).
We arrived in Downs at 12.30 p.m. and anchored. We were then asked
to go back to Dunkirk but as we had neither food nor water we were
allowed to remain until these could be supplied.
On Tuesday 28th May, after stores had been put on board, we were
ordered to Le Panne with full details of what to expect and what we
were to carry. At 10.30 p.m. 28th May we left Downs in company
with m.v. "BEAL" and m.v. "BULLFINCH" and arrived at Le Panne, at
4.30 a.m. 29th May. We anchored to await orders but as we received
none I decided to move down the Channel to where a large number of
troops were gathering. When shifting we picked up two boats with
ten soldiers in them. We took the men on board leaving two men in
each boat to take them ashore again for more troops. We also put
our boat out which A. Flett, G.A. Sutherland and G.A. MacKenzie
(16 years old) manned. MacKenzie later took charge of one of the
other boats and directed the soldiers who were rowing, himself
steering the boat. W. Watterson (Mate) and J. Runcie (Second Engineer)
also took charge of the boats and made several trips to the beach.
The rest of crew including the Chief Engineer and Firemen were
employed in bringing the boats alongside with lines. Army Captain
Fred Williams kept count of the men and at 12.30 p.m. he reckoned
-1-

Details

-2-
11/6/40.
S. S. "YEWDALE"
127
Master's Report of Evacuation of Troops from Dunkirk (contd)
we had 500 men on board. As we were at that time being assisted by
several Motor Launches and other small boats, counting become almost
impossible, Another Officer who also assisted a great deal counted
20 men boarding in 5 minutes. This we maintained until 2.30 p.m. when
I decided that we were too tightly packed to hold any more.
The soldiers numbering about 1000 were put into the cargo hold of
vessel and in addition every available space on the deck (which being
a. self-trimming vessel was very limited) was covered with men. Every
room and space on the ship including the engineroom and stokehold was
packed with men.
2.35 p.m. we hove up and closed a Destroyer for advice and we were
told that we could travel in company with her.
There had been a few Air Raids during the day but no bombs had
dropped, at least not close to us. At 4.0 p.m. several German planes
were seen overhead, and bombs dropped close to this ship. We then
hove up and proceeded on our passage to Downs with m.v. "BEAL" about
1 mile ahead and a Destroyer about 1 mile astern. At 4.50 p.m.
several enemy planes appeared overhead and began dive-bombing; several
bombs fell very close. This continued of and on for about three-
quarters of an hour with one final attack shortly before 6.0 p.m.
During the third attack shrapnel struck the steamer and five men were
killed and 78 wounded (two I believe died later). Our Mate, W.
Watterson, was struck in the leg and seriously injured.
About six soldiers who apparently thought the ship to be sinking
jumped overboard. These men possibly were picked up by the Destroyer
astern. It would have been dangerous, to all those on board for us
to turn back for them. In the next raid a Dive-Bomber was hit by
our guns and appeared out of control, it lost height and as it passed
close over the ship our gun kept firing and each tracer bullet was
seen to enter the plane until it got out of range. Several soldiers
ctually saw it striking the water about half a mile on our port bow.
At 6.0 p.m. the Raiders were driven off, we believe by our own planes.
During these Raids our compass had been smashed and we had to depend
entirely on other ships and on a small field compass which could only
give us an approximate direction when used on top of wheelhouse.
At 9.30 p.m. as we were approaching the Coast I signalled the Destroyer
to report that I had wounded men on board. I also kept calling UD
other ships when entering Downs where we eventually arrived at 11.10
p.m. one mile off Deal Pier. After continuing calling up by flashing
(wireless was smashed) until 11.40 p.m. we gave up and awaited dawn.
We then attracted attention by firing our Lewis guns and a Naval ship
got in touch with the Coastguard and at 6.0 a.m. a lifeboat with a
Doctor on board arrived, and we were then ordered to Ramsgate where
we arrived and disembarked all troops by 9.30 p.m. and then proceeded
for temporary repairs to Sheerness.

Details

79
1 ml
EN LINE STEAMERS
1940.
TRACT OF LETTER FROM CAPTAIN EDGAR JONES, S.S. "YEWDALE", SHEERNESS,
UNDER DATE 2nd JUNE, 1940.
128
There is a great deal of damage to this ship, caused by
shrapnel from bombs. These have penetrated through the ship's side
into holds, bunkers and engine room, also Mate's room has been badly
damaged shrapnel having penetrated through about 14" of steel at
doubling plate and has damaged cabin and Master's room. The Wheelhouse
is badly damaged and compass completely wrecked.
There are several burst pipes and defects in engine room.
The shrapnel that penetrated stokehold has also damaged boiler but we
do not think that marks on boiler are very deep.
We broughtabout 900 men across, 7 of whom were killed and
77 injured. Mate who was in Wheelhouse with Bo'sun and myself was
struck below the knee by shrapnel and is in grave danger of losing his
leg. I have not been able to find out what hospital he is in, but he
is neither at Ramsgate or Deal. I have written to his wife and
forwarded his wages.
We obtained some satisfaction in these raids however, as we
brought down one enemy bomber which we Saw plunging headlong into the
sea half a mile ahead of us. When we arrived at the spot we could see
nothing but oil.
dd
The great
TWIS
a bi., varge
were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat
and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the
next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

Details

15
F.T. EVERARD & SONS, LTD.
DIRECTORS
TELEPHONES
MANSION HOUSE 9751 LINES)
EVERARD.
SHIPOWNERS.
GREENHITHE 123 12 LINES)
EVERARD
V
EVERARD, M.I.N.A.
TELEGRAMS:
EVERARD, M.I.N.A.
22 & 23 GT. TOWER STREET,
EVERASHIP, BILGATE, LONDON
J.
EVERARD, M.I.M.E.
EVERASHIP GREENHITHE
M
LONDON, E.C.3.
SHIPYARD & WHARE GREENHITHE, KENT
246
YOUR REF
DATE
OUR REF.
FSB/HL
6th June, 1940.
Mr. Eakins,
The Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON W.1.
Dear Mr. Eakins,
Enclosed please find reports of our
motor vessel SEQUACITY" and sailing barges "ETHEL EVERARD
and PROYALTY" which I trust you will find in order.
Yours
For W faithfully,
ENC
OF us ura likewise.
In the meantime eleven German planes appeared
overhead and bombed both the "Yewdale" and ourselves.
Another shell burst over our fiddley and put the Bren gun
out of action, and wounded the chief engineer.

Details

15a
STATEMENT BY CAPTAIN J.MACDONALD, MASTER OF MOTOR VESSEL
SEQUACITY"
247
(ef. pase 95 )
We had been lying in the Downs for several days
and had instructions to proceed to Dunkirk at four a.m.
ship
on Monday the 27th May 1940 in company with the S.S.
"Yewdale".
All went well until we arrived off Calais, then
I noticed some shells falling in the water ahead of us.
I then thought it was land batteries ashore firing at some
mines, but soon after the shells started dropping all
round my ship, and one came through the port side, at the
water line in the main hold and went out the starboard
side.
I sent my mate down in to the hold with some
of the crew to try and patch the hold up. The next
shot came through the port side of the engine room and
smashed up the auxiliary engines that drove our dynamo etc.,
put our switchboard out of action and went out the starboard
side.
This put our pumps entirely out of action for
pumping water out of the hold.
Another shot came through the wheelhouse and
went through the hatches, down the forehold and right
through the ship's bottom.
We then shaped our course away from the shore
and the "Yewdale" which was outside of us did likewise.
In the meantime eleven German planes appeared
overhead and bombed both the "Yewdale" and ourselves.
Another shell burst over our fiddley and put the Bren gun
out of action, and wounded the chief engineer.

Details

Ford
In the meantime the wind increased and caused
a nasty chop on the sea, which allowed a lot of water
248
to come through the hole in our side, and as we were
ROUGWA
unable to pump our hold out the ship began to take a
nasty list.
Mership
I blew for the "Yewdale" to stand by us, but
he did not appear to notice our signal. A British plane
0.
then appeared and saw the trouble we were in, and flew
him
ahead to the "Yewdale" and dropped some red flares.
He
The "Yewdale" then returned to us, and we launched
him
our lifeboat, and then after we got aboard the "Yewdale'
she went down by the head and sunk.
I should add that in addition to the two soldiers
that worked our Bren gun, before we left the Downs we
took on a young Naval rating named Evans with Lewis guns .
We had to fix these on the open bridge, and all the time
we were being attacked by the planes he kept up incessant
fire with the Lewis guns and stuck his job manfully.
216
vas
The "Yewdale" landed us at Ramsgate.
for
ons
Note.
ype
ain
The "Yewdale" after landing the crew of the
red
"Sequacity" went back for another batch of soldiers to
nst
the
Dunkirk. She was very hadly knocked about on this voyage
vas
in
and the mate had to have his leg amputated. The captain
arrived back with his ship too badly damaged to proceed again,
in
28
but the master telephoned his owners asking them for another
32
ship to enable him to go back to Dunkirk again.
LE,
er
tle
the
ere
ise
ers
tle
a
nal