ShippingA Selection of News Articles Related to Shipping

  • 1 Stranded

    10 November 1972

  • 2 Conversion of George V

    5 April 1954

  • 3 A triumph of teamwork

    November 1962

  • 4 Pollux

    18 January 1963

  • 5 A boating lake

    11 August 1978

  • 6 Exciting times

    10 March 1961

  • 7 A ship ahoy!

    8 June 1956

  • 8 Ton(nes) of experience!

    1 September 1961

  • 9 Nappies Ahoy!

    16 July 1965

  • 10 Thunderer

    9 May 1958

  • 11 Entertainment

    14 January 1936

  • 12 Born at Shirwell

    20 October 1967

  • 13 Fears for safety

    30 September 1960

  • 14 Built for the Royal Navy

    3 October 1958

  • 15 Successor

    4 March 1977

  • 16 Appledore Shipyard Training School

    Good news mentioned in the Gazette in 1968! Appledore Shipyard is to establish a training school for apprentices.

  • 17 The Kathleen and May - 1978

    Exeter Maritime Museum have offered to give a home to the Kathleen and May, the 77-year-old schooner with strong

  • 18 The Golden Hind - 1972

    Assembly of the framework of the replica of Drake's Golden Hind, being bult at the yard of J Hinks and Son, Appledore

  • 19 Fiftieth Ship for Appledore Shipyard - 1978

    There was a distinct Scottish flavour about the naming this week of the 50th ship to be built by Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd.

  • 20 Landing craft becomes mission ship

    converted from landing craft to mission ship

  • 21 Farewell to the Hispaniola

    Sails being bent in readiness for last weekends tow to Scarborough

  • 22 Corvette becomes fishing and depot ship

    the ex "flower" class corvette anchusia, now being converted at Appledore

  • 23 Pirate spirit goes down the hatch

    Hispaniola on her last voyage from Appledore to Scarborough

  • 24 Torridge wins on time schedule

    Picture of Richmond Dock of Messrs PK Harris & Sons Ltd

  • 25 What are they talking about

    Representative well known North Country firm and Mr Percy Harris

  • 26 Appledore tug launched on time

    Messrs P K Harris (shipbuilders) Ltd

  • 27 Glass hull vessel leaves Appledore

    54ft vessel en route for Aden

  • 28 Over 30 men lose shipyard jobs and more may follow

    30 hand laid off by P K Harris & Sons Ltd

  • 29 P K Harris shipyard closure hits nearly 500 jobs

    Shipyard in receivers hands

  • 30 Appledore's largest launching yet

    Sand Dart built by P K Harris & Sons

  • 31 Bideford's private wharves busier

    Messrs I Baker & Sons Ltd

  • 32 Shiver my timbers - Sedwell Jane

    Broadley built by M W Blackmore

  • 33 First sand dredger to have radar fitted

    Mr Stan Woolaway and Mr A Hutchings

  • 34 From Torridge-side to the Pool of London

    "Jaycee" tug built by P K Harris & Sons Ltd

  • 35 Bideford loses training ship revenge

    Sea cadets lose their headquarters

  • 36 Shipyard can take 100more craftsmen

    Labour force is biggest in firm's history

  • 37 Sailing through traffic to big exhibition

    Lundy Gull built at Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd

  • 38 Shipyard to run training school

    Appledore Shipbuilders buys shelter

  • 39 Esso tankers to be built by Appledore Shipyard

    Esso Petroleum Company

  • 40 Appledore builds tug for Persian Gulf State

    Taking shape in the Richmond dry dock at Appledore ship building yard of Messrs P K Harris & Sons

  • 41 Two sets of twins at Appledore shipyard

    Messrs Schiller and Powe

  • 42 Korean visit to Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd

    Deputy Prime Minister of Korea

  • 43 expanding shipyard

    Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd

  • 44 C711 stranded

    30 October 1970

  • 45 Council await report

    2 April 1971

  • 46 Tanker called Bideford

    1959 article

  • 47 Tankerman, tanker built on Torridgeside

    Rowbotham Tankships Ltd

  • 48 launching of the 'Jane Hannah Macdonald 31.05.1938

    Lifeboat launch 31.05.1938

  • 49 Clovelly's lifeboat day prompts memories 14.07.1950

    new boat from builders 14.07.1950

  • 50 Lifeboat crew are given awards at supper party 19th July 1963

    Appledore lifeboat 19th July 1963

  • 51 Appledore's new lifeboat arrives home 23rd November 1962

    Louisa Anne Hawker 23rd November 1962

  • 52 Lifeboat christening 22 June 1962

    Councils dismay on christening 22 June1962

  • 53 First rescue 1st June 1979

    Shell Mex and BP Ltd

  • 54 Lifeboat station at Clovelly to close 28th July 1967

    RNLI to close lifeboat station 28.07.1967

  • 55 Lifeboatmen are to seek salvage 22nd December 1967

    Woodlark aground off Morte Point 22nd December 1967

  • 56 Clovelly protests again about removal of shore lifeboat 29.03.1968

    100 years ends in the history lifeboat service at Clovelly 29.03.1968

  • 57 New pattern for cover by lifeboat? 17th September 1965

    cruising lifeboat Bristol area 17.09.1965

  • 58 Clovelly's 100 years as lifeboat station 24th July 1970

    Centenary of lifeboat station 24th July 1970

  • 59 Crew of Appledore's inshore rescue boat 21.10.1977

    Wildenwrath Whizzer RNLI boat 21.10.1977

  • 60 Younger members not coming forward 19.11.1954

    Appledore lifeboat branch meeting 19.11.1954

  • 61 Two by two

    17 August 1951

  • 62 Founded in 1870

    4 January 1963

  • 63 Busiest year in the long history of Appledore lifeboat 05.10.1973

    Photo of Appledore crew 05.10.1973

  • 64 ML Guardwell

    24 March 1972

  • 65 Lundy connection

    23 June 1967

  • 66 Appledore's new lifeboat 19th April 1962

    Lifeboat engine trials 19th April 1962

  • 67 Green Ranger

    22 February 1963

  • 68 Captain Small

    15 December 1972

  • 69 Prior to sailing to San Francisco

    29 June 1973

  • 70 Golden Hinde

    30 March 1973

  • 71 First tankers arrive at new depot

    Shell Mex and BP Ltd

  • 72 Golden Hinde

    13 April 1973

  • 73 Hours of work

    6 October 1978

  • Stranded

    10 November 1972

    The morning after scene

    on Sunday of the wreckage of the ‘Rossekop II’ from which, in a hazardous operation in the darkness of just after midnight, seven adults and three children were winched aboard an RAF helicopter from Chivenor and landed safely ashore.

    10.11.1972 Rossekop 2 wreckage1

    Receiving a severe pounding in the surf, having gone ashore near the estuary bar, parts of the vessel were later found scattered a considerable distance along Saunton Sands beach.

    Gazette article dated 10 November 1972

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  • A triumph of teamwork

    November 1962

    RFA Green Ranger

    23.11.1962 RFA Green Ranger

    Viewed at dawn on Sunday, but a few hours after her crew of seven had been rescued by breeches buoy, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary tanker ‘Green Ranger’ ashore near Long Peak on Hartland’s rocky coast.

    RFA Green Ranger1

    The drama began when the tug Caswell which was towing the 3,500 ton Admiralty tanker – a ‘dead ship’ – from Plymouth to Cardiff for repairs, was forced by mountainous seas to slip the tow rope off Hartland Point.

    In no time the Green Ranger was swept towards the rockbound shore and before ships that raced to her assistance could get near she struck

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  • Pollux

    18 January 1963

    Oxy-acetylene blow torches

    had to be used in an Appledore shipyard on Thursday week to free the launching mechanism of ice before a new tug, the Pollux, slid down the runway.

    18.1.1963 Pollux

    The Pollux was launched at the yard of Messrs P K Harris and Sons, and before she took the water the blow torches were used to melt the ice which had collected between the sliding way on which the ship rested and the fixed way.

    The naming ceremony was performed by Mrs C J Mill, wife of the managing director of the Overseas Towage and Salvage Co. Ltd of

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  • A boating lake

    11 August 1978

    Agreement reached this week

    over the provision of a roundabout at Bloody Corner, Northam, means that the way could be cleared for a start within 12 months on the £1 million boating lake and marina planned at Bidna Marsh by Mr and Mrs Harold Clements of Appledore.

    11.8.1978 Northam Marina

    The project, agreed in principle by Torridge District Council’s Development Committee, has been held up by a highway objection by the county engineer, but this has been overcome by Mr

    Clement’s decision to construct the 25-meter roundabout with the outlet giving access to the site.

    Gazette article dated 11 August 1978

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  • Exciting times

    10 March 1961

    Luxury cruises for 'Kathleen and May’ and ‘Irene’

    10.3.1961 Appledore ships

    Three-masted schooner Kathleen and May and the twin-masted ketch Irene are soon to disappear from the Appledore scene of which, between voyages, they have been so picturesque and attractive a feature.

    But local people, to whom the vessels are more than just ships, may find consolation in the fact that both are to have a glamorous future. They have been bought by the Foster Construction Company, of London, and will be used for luxury cruises in the Mediterranean and the West Indies.

    They have been idle for a considerable time, and it

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  • A ship ahoy!

    8 June 1956

    Grenville Bar is opened

    8.6.1956 Sailing

    Above is a photograph of the new Grenville Bar, at Westward Ho! Holiday Centre, which has been built in the shape of half a galleon, and was opened by Mr A G Pratley, general manager of Travco Hotels Ltd, on Friday.

    Among the club members and guests present were Mr Gordon Harris and Mr Ted Harris, of Messrs P K Harris and Sons, the Appledore shipbuilders, who were responsible for its realistic construction.

    Mr Bob Mitchell, of Westward Ho! the manager, said with guests rising to 600 weekly during the season, probably some 5,000 would become

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  • Ton(nes) of experience!

    1 September 1961

    Ketch Irene leaves North Devon

    1.9.1961 Shipping Irene

    Three captains of the old sailing tradition formed the crew of the ketch Irene which set sail from Bideford Quay to meet her new owner, Mr Os, at Hamble, in Southampton Waters.

    They are Capt. W Schiller, Capt T Jewell, whose three-masted schooner Kathleen and May was sold earlier this year with an ultimate destination believed to be the West Indies, and Capt P Herbert, master of the Mary Stewart at present alongside the Quay.

    “We are all three engineers” Capt Jewell told the Bideford Gazette, “and we shall be a happy ship for the

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  • Nappies Ahoy!

    16 July 1965

    The ex-RN pinnace Calypso, which was escorted into Clovelly harbour at about 1.30am yesterday by the local lifeboat,

    was the boat that Ilfracombe Council had said must quit the harbour there by the end of the month after complaints that flapping nappies were spoiling the view.

    16.7.1965 Nappy ship
    Owned by Mr Brian Jackson, and with his wife, two children aged 20 months and three months, and with two men friends aboard, she was on her way to Padstow when her engine failed south of Hartland Point.

    Anchor was dropped and the two men rowed ashore in a dinghy to raise the alarm.

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  • Thunderer

    9 May 1958

    Tug For Clyde

    9.5.1958 Appledore tug

    Biggest tug yet built by P K Harris (Shipbuilders) Ltd, the Thunderer was named and launched from the firm’s Appledore yard on Friday.

    She was named by Mrs P S MacAllum, wife of the managing director of the firm for whom the vessel is being built, who was presented with a bouquet by Miss Ann Dryer.

    Mr P S MacAllum, managing director of Steel and Bennie Ltd, one of the best known firms of tug owners in the United Kingdom, smiling happily after watching the perfect launch, said “I signed the contract here on December 27th and

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  • Entertainment

    14 January 1936

    ‘Women’s Own’ Presentation – Sunday School Treat

    14.1.1936 Appledore Seamen Mission

    The annual gathering of the Seamen’s Mission Women’s Own at Appledore took place at the Seamen’s Bethel on Wednesday evening. A daintily served and most appetising supper made an excellent first part of the proceedings. Pastor Rowland Russell presided, assist by Mrs Rowland Russell, leader of the Women’s Own. Afterwards presentations were made to each member of the tea committee in appreciation of their helpful services during the year.

    Mrs A Bowden, on behalf of the members, presented useful gifts to Mr and Mrs Rowland Russell as a mark of gratitude for the happy

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  • Born at Shirwell

    20 October 1967

    Presentation

    20.10.1967 Sir Francis Chichester1

    Bideford’s gift to Sir Francis Chichester, a locally-made, harvest-style pottery jug bearing references to his historic voyage, was presented by the Mayor (Mr.Harold Blackmore) during last week’s ceremonies in honour of Sir Francis at Barnstaple.

    Sir Francis expressed himself delighted with the gift and good wishes.

    In the centre of the photograph is the Mayor of Barnstaple (Mr. Jim Rayner).

    Born at Shirwell, North Devon, Sir Francis had his introduction to sailing on the river Torridge.

    At ceremonies at Barnstaple he was made an honorary freeman of the borough and unveiled the foundation stone of the new civic centre.

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  • Fears for safety

    30 September 1960

    Five saved by Clovelly lifeboat

    30.9.1960 Clovelly lifeboat

    Tired and hungry, but otherwise none the worse for their experience, three men, two women and a dog were brought into harbour by Clovelly lifeboat on Monday afternoon after having spent the night in an open boat.

    The party had left Combe Martin on Sunday in the 26ft Lyn II, the owner, Mr W J W Watkins being accompanied by his wife, Mrs Irene Watkins and three friends – Mr and Mrs A E J Coleshill, of Radlett, Herts, and Mrs S Rumball, of Twickenham.

    When they failed to return fears were felt for their safety.

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  • Built for the Royal Navy

    3 October 1958

    Launched at Bideford

    3.10.1958 HMS Enterprise

    As spectators watched a new inshore survey vessel for the Royal Navy, H.M.S. “Enterprise,” being launched from Messrs. M.W. Blackmore and Sons’ yard at Bideford on Tuesday morning, the keel was disclosed of an 80ft. Pilot vessel ready to take her building berth.

    The pilot vessel is one of two being built for the Qatar Petroleum Co. For use in the Persian Gulf, one being due for launching in March and the other in June next. With the new inshore survey vessel being fitted out on Messrs. Blackmore’s new mechanical slipway at Bank End, and with various

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  • Successor

    4 March 1977

    The new Scillonian now being built at the yards of Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd, will carry an example of the craftmanship of one of the town’s smaller yards, Messrs H Ford and Sons.

    4.3.1977 Shipping Scillonian

    It is the plaque to be fitted to the bow of the vessel that is the main contact between the Isles of Scilly and the mainland and the third in the islands’ history.

    The existing Scillonian carried a bronze plaque which could not be adapted to fit her successor. The brothers Ford – Philip, Harold and Sid – the two last named are seen in the picture – took a mould

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  • Appledore Shipyard Training School

    Good news mentioned in the Gazette in 1968! Appledore Shipyard is to establish a training school for apprentices.

    Appledore Shipyard Training School - February 1968

    Appledore Shipyard Training School
     

    Good news mentioned in the Gazette in 1968! Appledore Shipyard is to establish a training school for apprentices.

     
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  • The Kathleen and May - 1978

    Exeter Maritime Museum have offered to give a home to the Kathleen and May, the 77-year-old schooner with strong

    The Kathleen and May - 13th January 1978

     

    Exeter Maritime Museum have offered to give a home to the Kathleen and May, the 77-year-old schooner with strong Appledore associations which the Maritime Trust are considering moving from Plymouth to London.
    The Trust say the viewing fees from the public visiting the schoome at Sutton do not cover maintenance costs and they think a move to London could remedy this situation. The Exeter Museum think she should stay in the area.
    The Kathleen and May, built at Connah's Quay in North Wales, was at one time a familiar part of the

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  • The Golden Hind - 1972

    Assembly of the framework of the replica of Drake's Golden Hind, being bult at the yard of J Hinks and Son, Appledore

    The Golden Hind - 18th February 1972

     

    Replica of Golden Hind to be Built in Appledore

    Assembly of the framework of the replica of Drake's Golden Hind, being bult at the yard of J Hinks and Son, Appledore.
    The replica has been ordered by an American firm and the work of the building will take until next spring.
    Meanwhile, on the Isle of Wight, 58-year-old Mr Jack Whitehead is working on a hind figurehead for the vessel. He was also responsible for the carvings on the replica of the Nonsuch for the Hudson's Bay Company, which was built at Hink's

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  • Fiftieth Ship for Appledore Shipyard - 1978

    There was a distinct Scottish flavour about the naming this week of the 50th ship to be built by Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd.

    Fiftieth Ship for Appledore Shipyard - 1978

     

    There was a distinct Scottish flavour about the naming this week of the 50th ship to be built by Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd. The new ship was named City of Perth and she was named by Mrs Angela Weir, wife of Mr Donald Weir an Ellerman City Liners' managing director.
    The first ship built under cover at Appledore was the Pen Stour. In the eight-and-a-half years since then, there have been more dredgers as well as tankers, supply vessels, container ships, bulk carriers and of course, the passenger-cargo ship Scillonian which was named by

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  • Landing craft becomes mission ship

    converted from landing craft to mission ship

    Landing craft becomes missions ship 5th April 1949

    landing craft becomes missions ship Converted from a landing craft (guns) to a mission ship, the "Sir Edward P Willis II" lying at the yard of Messrs P K Harris and Sons, Appledore, will, it is expected, be ready for sea in the very near future.  Her reconstruction, which has been spread over two years, has been delayed by various shortages of materials, but this is now being overcome.

    Picture shows Captain Lord Headley and Skipper H J Goldspink.  The late Mrs Manning wife of the former well-known Rector of Bideford (Preb. W N Manning) was a

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  • Farewell to the Hispaniola

    Sails being bent in readiness for last weekends tow to Scarborough

    Farewell to the 'Hispaniola' 2nd June 1950

    farewell to the HispaniolaJauntily flying the skull and cross-bones at her stern, the ship, Hispaniola, which last summer was used in making the film "Treasure Island," left Appledore in tow for Scarborough where she is to become part of that Corporation's maritime display.  Lieut-Com S Gorrell is in charge of the Hispaniola.  Volunteer extra hand, who travelled all Friday night to get to Appledore, was Wing-Commander Cyril Johnson, of Birmingham.

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  • Corvette becomes fishing and depot ship

    the ex "flower" class corvette anchusia, now being converted at Appledore

    Corvette becomes fishing and depot ship 5th April 1949

    Corvette becomes fishing and depot ship

    Described by Messrs P K Harris and Sons as the biggest conversion job they have done, the ex "Flower" class corvette Anchusia, now being converted at Appledore into a fishing and depot ship renamed Silver Lord, is nearing completion.  Wheel-house of the ship and the bridge deck are built of teak taken from HMS Warspite when she was broken up.  Alongside the Silver Lord is another former corvette, now named Silver King.  Work on this vessel has not yet commenced.

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  • Pirate spirit goes down the hatch

    Hispaniola on her last voyage from Appledore to Scarborough

    'Pirate spirit' goes 'down the hatch' 16th June 1950

    Pirate spirit goes down the hatch Pirates were taking the Treasure Island film ship Hispaniola on her last voyage from Appledore to Scarborough where the ship will become part of the town's maritime display.  The Hispaniola was commended by Lieut Commander S Gorrell and manned by 2 Appledore seamen, Messrs E Bignell and Kelly Eastman, and a number of amateur sailors, Messrs W Glover, S Sanders, T R Davies and Wing Commander Johnson.

    At Scarborough Mrs Pat Pulleyn, wife of the Chairman of Scarborough Harbour Committee, was first on board.  A mayoral reception was accorded the crew

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  • Torridge wins on time schedule

    Picture of Richmond Dock of Messrs PK Harris & Sons Ltd

    Torridge wins on time schedule! 30th September 1955

    Torridge wins on time schedule Picture of Richmond Dock of Messrs P K Harris & Sons Ltd, the old established Appledore firm, shows three tugs in course of fitting out or construction.

    In the background is the Alnwick, 4th of six vessels being delivered to Messrs France, Fenwick, Tyne & Wear Ltd, of Newcastle.  The smaller hull on the left is of a tug ordered by the Iraq Petroleum Company.

    The Bamburgh is expected to be christened just before Christmas and the Mersden in the New Year.

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  • What are they talking about

    Representative well known North Country firm and Mr Percy Harris

    "What are they talking about?" 7th October 1955

    What are they talking aboutPhotograph shows a representative of a well-known North Country firm (on the left) and the well-known Appledore ship-builder and repairer, Mr Percy Harris (Chairman of P K Harris Shipbuilders Ltd) on the right.

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  • Appledore tug launched on time

    Messrs P K Harris (shipbuilders) Ltd

    Appledore tug launched on time! 4th November 1955

    appledore tug launched on time The above tug was successfully launched amid cheers of Appledore shipyard employees who have worked at concert pitch to ensure "being on time" as tide was the last suitable daylight tide before 1956.

    Picture shows Mr C H Gibson, the mechanical engineer for a large North-country tug-owning firm, consulting with Mr J Venus, Managing director of Messrs P K Harris (Shipbuilders) Ltd of Appledore, the builders of the new craft.

    The christening ceremony was performed by Mrs Gibson.  Design by Messrs Burness, Kendall and Partners.

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  • Glass hull vessel leaves Appledore

    54ft vessel en route for Aden

    Glass-hull vessel leave Appledore 14th January 1956

    Glass hull vessel leaves Appledore54 foot glass fabricated vessel, which was launched into the Torridge by crane, after arrival by road from Southampton, in June last, left Appledore last week after being fitted out at the Newquay Dock of Messrs P K Harris and Sons.  She is destined for Aden.

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  • Over 30 men lose shipyard jobs and more may follow

    30 hand laid off by P K Harris & Sons Ltd

    Over 30 men lose shipyard jobs and more may follow 1st January 1960

    Over 30 men lose shipyard jobs and more may followMore than 30 hands were laid off by P K Harris & Sons Ltd, the Appledore shipbuilders.  Mr Gordon Harris, a principal of the firm stated there are bound to be some more.  Reason for dismissals is that last year the firm produced 15 or 16 ships many of them in record time, "but at the great expense of Sunday work and overtime."

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  • P K Harris shipyard closure hits nearly 500 jobs

    Shipyard in receivers hands

    Shipyard closure hits nearly 500 jobs  8th March 1963

     

    Shipyard closure hits nearly 500 jobs After the first stunning blow caused by the closure, literally at a moment's notice on Friday, of the Appledore shipyards of P K Harris & Sons Ltd, there has been much activity aimed at getting them reopened.

    Mr J E Williams, who has been appointed by Lloyds Bank as Receiver, at the request of the directors, is examining the position.  Throughout Mr Percy Browne, MP who is convalescing at his London home, has been in close touch with the problem, as have other local leaders.

    P K Harris & Sons

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  • Appledore's largest launching yet

    Sand Dart built by P K Harris & Sons

    Appledore's Largest Launching Yet 31st May 1957

    Appledores largest launching yet Most up-to-date of her kind in the UK, the largest ship ever to be built at the shipyards of Messrs P K Harris & Sons at Appledore was floated out of the dry-dock in which she was built, to the accompaniment of ships' sirfens and worken's cheers. 

    The vessel was christened 'Sand Dart' by Mrs V G W Batt, wife of the managing director of the Southampton firm.  Before the naming ceremony a bouquet was presented to Mrs Batt by Mrs Veree Kidd, daughter of the Richmond yard charge-hand Mr Jack Eastman.

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  • Bideford's private wharves busier

    Messrs I Baker & Sons Ltd

    Bideford's private wharves busier 29th March 1956

    bidefords private wharves busierBideford's private wharves were at their busiest since the war when the above picture was taken.  The latest to be deepened for coastal vessels is that of Messrs I Baker and Sons Ltd, in the foreground, where m.v. "Celebrity" is discharging cement.  At the Devon Trading Co Ltd, in background, the m.v. "Stan Woolaway is discharging gravel.

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  • Shiver my timbers - Sedwell Jane

    Broadley built by M W Blackmore

    "Shiver my Timbers - What Next?" 20th November 1953

    shiver my timbers For 90 years, the three masted schooner 'Sedwell Jane' has held the honour of having been the largest and longest vessel ever launched above Bideford  Bridge. 

    Messrs M W Blackmore and Sons, Bideford will be launching the largest vessel so far from their yard.  An inshore minesweeper to be known as HMS Broadley, whe will be named by Mrs Durnford-Slater, wife of Rear-Admiral L F Durnford-Slater, of "Landfall" Instow, who is Deputy Controller of the Navy.

    The Sedwell Jane was built at Sea Locks, at the terminus of the old Rolle Canal

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  • First sand dredger to have radar fitted

    Mr Stan Woolaway and Mr A Hutchings

    First sand dredger to have radar fitted? 29th June 1956

    first sand dredger to have radar fitted Bideford Gazette photographer catches Mr Stan Woolaway up the ladder supervising the installation of new radar and echo-sounding devices he is having installed on his sand dredger, named after him, and familiar to Torridge-side.

    Mr A E Hutchings, of the Bideford marine electrical engineering firm, is responsible for the radar installation.

    Mr S Woolaway, apart from his sand dredger business, is also principal of the family firm of Messrs W Woolaway & Sons Ltd, public works contractors, Barnstaple and of the Barnstaple Brick and Tile Co Ltd, which has headquarters

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  • From Torridge-side to the Pool of London

    "Jaycee" tug built by P K Harris & Sons Ltd

    From Torridge-side to the Pool of London 16th July 1954

    From Torridge side to the Pool of London "Jaycee" is a striking tribute to the Torridge-side shipwrights who built her.

    She was launched from Appledore yards of P K Harris & Sons Ltd where she had been built to the hydroconic design of Dr E C B Corlett, Director of the London shipbuilding consultants, Burness, Kendall and Partners Ltd.

    "Jaycee" has a length of 62ft, a beam of 16ft, is diesel powered and carries a crew of four including the master.

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  • Bideford loses training ship revenge

    Sea cadets lose their headquarters

    Bideford loses training ship "Revenge" 30th September 1957

    bideford loses training ship revenge One of the most interesting sights along Bideford riverside during the past 9 years has been that of the Admiralty's M.T.B. Revenege, which has served as headquarters for the Bideford unit of the Sea Cadet Corps.

    Bideford Sea Cadets, under Lieut-Commander T N Rowe, have looked after her well, but have been unable to prevent the deterioration of her hull below the water line, and the steady out-flow of the town's sewer, has all added to the decay of her timbers.

    Speaking at the meeting of the Borough Council, the Mayor Mr

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  • Shipyard can take 100more craftsmen

    Labour force is biggest in firm's history

    Shipyard can take 100 more craftsmen 7th October 1966

    shipyard can take 100 more craftsmen Managing Director of Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd (Mr J Venus) stated that the firm are to build three coastal tankers.

    The vessels for Shell Mex and BP Ltd are single screw steel motor tankers of 810 tons dead weight, with a length of 171ft 3in and a width of 34ft.  The new vessels are "getting towards the limit fo what the yards are able to do" said Mr Venus.

    The firm is now owned by Court Line Ltd, were appreciative of the work of all their employees for it had enable them

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  • Sailing through traffic to big exhibition

    Lundy Gull built at Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd

    Sailing through traffic to big exhibition 9th June 1967

     

    sailing through traffic to big exhibition The 30 ton motor fishing vessel "Lundy Gull" pictured at Isleworth (Middlesex) near the end of its three day journey by sea, river and road from Appledore, for display at the World Fishing Exhibition, which opened at Olympia on June 1st.  The biggest craft on show, "Lundy Gull" was built at the shipyards of Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd a member of the Court Line Group.

    sailing through traffic to big exhibition 1 Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd have already received inquiries from the governments of Trinidad, Guyana, Nigeria and the Solomon Islands about their new Lundy Class vessels.  Mr Jim

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  • Shipyard to run training school

    Appledore Shipbuilders buys shelter

    Shipyard to run training school 2nd February 1968

    shipyard to run training schoolThe shipyard seems to make all the good Appledore news.

    The establishment of a training school for apprentices.  Northam Urban Council are to reconstruct the bus shelter, which is just around the corner in Marine Parade.

    Appledore Shipbuilders were ready to buy the shelter and incorporate it in their scheme.  The Surveyor (Mr Clive Barber) told the Council that because of vandalism he had investigated the possibility of making it shallower.

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  • Esso tankers to be built by Appledore Shipyard

    Esso Petroleum Company

    Esso tankers to be built by Appledore shipyard

    Esso tankers to be built by Appledore shipyardAn order for 3 coastal tankers worth a total of millions has been placed with Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd, Appledore, by Esso Petroleum Company Ltd.  Photograph shows Dr A R W Baddeley a director of Esso Petroleum Co Ltd and Mr James Venus, managing director of Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd.

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  • Appledore builds tug for Persian Gulf State

    Taking shape in the Richmond dry dock at Appledore ship building yard of Messrs P K Harris & Sons

    Appledore builds tug for Persian Gulf State 10th April 1953

    Appledore builds tug for Persion Gulf StateRapidly taking shape in the Richmond dry dock at the Appledore ship building yard of Messrs P K Harris & Sons, is a diesel tug being built to the orders of the government of Kuwait on the Persian Gulf. 

    Photograph shows the first plate being fitted into its positon towards the bow of the vessel and inside the ship are two members of the rivetting team.

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  • Two sets of twins at Appledore shipyard

    Messrs Schiller and Powe

    Two sets of twins at Appledore shipyards 14th August 1981

    two sets of twins at Appledore shipyardHow unusual it is to have two sets of twins working for the same company.  Tony Schiller - better known locally as a Bideford FC player - and his brother David joined Appledore Shipbuilders as apprentices last August, on Sunday they celebrate their 18th birthdays. 

    Also working in the yard are 35 year twins John and George Powe, who are both shipwrights.

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  • Korean visit to Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd

    Deputy Prime Minister of Korea

    Korean deputy premier visits Appledore yard 22nd March 1974

    Korean deputy premier visits Appledore yard Mr Wan Sun Tae, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea, discusses a point during his visit to Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd with the company's executive chairman, Mr Jim Venus, and managing director, Mr Joe Ball.  A party from the Republic of Korea visited Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd. 

    The party was led by the Deputy Prime Minister of Korea included the Korean Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Mr Kyung Nok Choi.

    The visitors were shown around by Mr Jim Venus, executive chairman of the Appledore company; Mr Joe Ball, the managing director;

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  • expanding shipyard

    Appledore Shipbuilders Ltd

    Expanding Shipyard 28th January 1972

    expanding shipyardWell on the way to completion is the big extension to Appledore Shipbuilders' covered yard.

    Costing three-quarters of a million pounds, the extension will provide an extra 50,000 square feet, enabling larger fabrication units to be assembled.

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  • C711 stranded

    30 October 1970

    Hundreds of people have been making a daily trek to Westward Ho! to look at the stranded C711, a former Admiralty auxiliary tender which went ashore on the sands near Sandymere after her anchor chain had snapped while waiting near the Fairway Buoy to go into Appledore.

    stranded ship 1970


    The Pebble Ridge has provided a natural grandstand for spectators to watch the efforts made to re-float the vessel, which has two men on board.

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  • Council await report

    2 April 1971

    Bideford harbour master’s salary has not been increased for 20 years, Ald R D D Birdwood told the Town Council.

    2 April 1971 Harbour Master salary

    And because of harbour finances, no application had been made by the official. Job evaluation by the County Council management services unit was to be carried out in June, it was pointed out, and it was generally agreed that the case of the harbour master should not be dealt with in isolation. Other recommendations for review of gradings had bene deferred pending the Organisation and Methods report.The Council agreed to await the report. 

    Gazette article published 2 April 1971

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  • Tanker called Bideford

    1959 article

    In the past, big outside shipping firms, including the Reardon-Smith Line, have registered large vessels at Bideford which have never had a hope of coming up the Torridge.

    1959 Bideford tanker too big

    Lloyds Register of Shipping for 1958 features the 40,900 ton tanker ‘Bideford’ built by Kockums MV at Malmo for the Bideford Tanker Co. Ltd and registered in London.
    Messrs Fred Dessen and Co. Ltd, of London, who manage the Bideford Company are also managers of the Blandford Shipping Co. Ltd, owners of the Blandford and Bedford. The principals thought it fitting to name their company and first vessel after a port which

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  • Tankerman, tanker built on Torridgeside

    Rowbotham Tankships Ltd

    TORRIDGESIDE BUILT SHIP IS NAMED IN LONDON 18.2.1983

    torridgeside built shipProduct of the craftsmen of Appledore Shipbuilder Ltd the 10,500 ton Tankerman, a multi-purpose products tanker build on the Torridge for Rowbotham Tankships Ltd was named in Pool of London - the first time a naming ceremony has been held away from the yard. 

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  • launching of the 'Jane Hannah Macdonald 31.05.1938

    Lifeboat launch 31.05.1938

    Lifeboat launch from Bideford Quay in 1910

    lifeboat launch

    Naming ceremony of the new Appledore Lifeboat at Bideford this year. 

    Picture shows the launching of the 'Jane Hannah Macdonald' from Bideford Quay in September 1910, for service at Appledore No. 1 Station, inside the Bar. 

    In May 1912 the 'Robert and Catherine' was also launched from Bideford Quay for service at Appledore No. 2 Station, on Braunton Burrows.

    Article dated 31 May 1938

     

     

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  • Clovelly's lifeboat day prompts memories 14.07.1950

    new boat from builders 14.07.1950

    CLOVELLY'S LIFEBOAT DAY PROMPTS MEMORIES GRAVE AND GAY 14TH JULY 1950

    clovellys lifeboat

    New boat arrived from the builder's hands.  It was a real gathering of the clans and the remarks made by the President of the R.N.L.I. branch, Mr J C Hilton, brought back many happy memories of their boyhood days.

    What a gathering this June day was and what a mixture of men, women and children assembled on the old Quay and beach.  There are old members of the lifeboat crew who have served well and faithfully over the years, but now age demands their passing over the job to

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  • Lifeboat crew are given awards at supper party 19th July 1963

    Appledore lifeboat 19th July 1963

    Lifeboat crew are given awards at supper party 19th July 1963

    lifeboat crew

    lifeboat crew 2

    At a supper party at Appledore Hall on Friday night when Mr Sidney Cann, the coxswain of the Appledore lifeboat, and his crew were presented with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution's certificates of merit on vellum.

    The awards recognised the part they played in going to the assistance of the crew of the Admiralty tanker Green Ranger which went aground at Hartland last November.

    Among the attendance of 128 at Friday's gathering was the Inspector of Lifeboats in the South West (Cmdr. H H Harvey), who had flown from

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  • Appledore's new lifeboat arrives home 23rd November 1962

    Louisa Anne Hawker 23rd November 1962

    Appledore's new lifeboat arrives home 23rd November 1962

    Appledores new lifeboat arrives home With veteran coxswain Mr Syndey Cann at the helm, Appledore's new lifeboat crossed Bideford bar on Tuesday at the end of her journey from the builder's yard in the Isle of Wight.  She was christened 'Louisa Anne Hawker' at Bideford.

    Commander H H Harvey, district inspector of the RNLI, who was in charge of delivery, went out with a full crew to acquaint them with the layout.

    On board in addition to the Commander and Mr Cann were mechanic Mr Leon Richards, signalman Mr Basil Marshall, Mr Bill Bowden, Captain Pat Brennan

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  • Lifeboat christening 22 June 1962

    Councils dismay on christening 22 June1962

    Lifeboat christening: council's 'dismay' 22nd June 1962

    lifeboat christening

    'Dismay' of Northam Urban Council has been expressed to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution following the decision to christen the new Appledore lifeboat at Bideford.

    Appledore Station Committee felt that Bideford was a more convenient location.  Mr L Moore asked about a newspaper report that the secretary of the Lifeboat Committee had been in touch with the Council and they were satisfied with the decision.  The Clerk Mr A Gardner said that he had written to the secretary saying that the Council were not protesting about the ceremony being held in another area,

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  • First rescue 1st June 1979

    Shell Mex and BP Ltd

    First rescue June 1st 1979

    first rescue

    The planned marathon row by the Cox brothers of Appledore, reported on the front page of this issue, and the discovery that it will virtually coincide with the first ever rescue by an Appledore lifeboat, prompted research that has brought to light fascinating details.

    Lifeboat committee chairman Captain Colin Lowry tells me that the lifeboat - the Volunteer - was the third vessel to be built by the RNLI and would in fact have been the first had her builder not been so slow.  On her first mercy trip she was crewed by William Hurry, Philip Guy,

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  • Lifeboat station at Clovelly to close 28th July 1967

    RNLI to close lifeboat station 28.07.1967

     Lifeboat station at Clovelly to close 28th July 1967 (article in Western Times)

    lifeboat station at Clovelly to close Lifeboat station at Clovelly is to be closed at the end of March.  Decision by the RNLI Committee of Management, follows consideration of the whole future of the lifeboat service in the Clovelly area, and it has been made despite a strong fight put up by local branch committee.

    There has been a lifeboat station at Clovelly for nearly 100 years and Mr Jack Prince, the branch committee chairman, said that the R.N.L.I's decision had upset the villagers considerably.

    Pebbles problem: In recent years problems over the

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  • Lifeboatmen are to seek salvage 22nd December 1967

    Woodlark aground off Morte Point 22nd December 1967

    Lifeboatmen are to seek salvage 22nd December 1967

    lifeboat men to seek salvage

    A claim for salvage is being made by Appledore lifeboatmen following the incident when they helped the 900 ton coaster "Woodlark" aground off Morte Point to safety.

    Mr Ernest Carter, the lifeboat coxswain, and his crew are taking legal advice about the action, which would be independent of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.  The men themselves will have to foot the bill.

    The Woodlark, which was carrying a cargo of wines, was aground for about 7 hours before the lifeboat, which had stood by, helped on a rising tide to pull her

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  • Clovelly protests again about removal of shore lifeboat 29.03.1968

    100 years ends in the history lifeboat service at Clovelly 29.03.1968

    Clovelly protests again about removal of shore lifeboat 29.03.1968

    clovelly protests again A chapter of very nearly 100 years ends in the history of the lifeboat service at Clovelly - amid renewed protest from the village.

    Weather permitting the shore-based lifeboat leaves for Cowes that day and in future the R.N.L.I.'s 70ft cruising lifeboat, known as 70001, which is now on permanent duty in the Bristol Channel, will be responsible for the area previously covered by the Clovelly boat.

    Because he disagrees with the decision to take away Clovelly's shore based lifeboat, the local chairman, Mr Jack Prince, intimated he was not seeking re-election.

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  • New pattern for cover by lifeboat? 17th September 1965

    cruising lifeboat Bristol area 17.09.1965

    New pattern for cover by lifeboat? 17th September 1965

     

    new pattern for cover by lifeboat

    Suggestion that the revolutionary cruising lifeboat that is to be brought to Appledore around Christmas represents an immediate threat to the existence of lifeboat station in the Bristol Channel area  is 'nonsense'.

    This is an experimental type of rescue cruiser, of which two are being built.  For some time there has been rumoured a plan to station a cruising lifeboat in this locality, with permanent crews as on lightships, to serve the Bristol Channel area.

    Commander H B Acworth, assistant chief inspector of lifeboats, who was on board during the

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  • Clovelly's 100 years as lifeboat station 24th July 1970

    Centenary of lifeboat station 24th July 1970

    Clovelly's 100 years as lifeboat station 24th July 1970

    Clovellys 100 years as lifeboat station The centenary of Clovelly lifeboat station will be marked by celebrations next week culminating in the presentation of a vellum from the committee of management of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

    The lifeboat housed in Clovelly boathouse was withdrawn on March 31st 1968, but the cruising lifeboat 70-001 has since been based there, and Clovelly continues as a lifeboat station providing shore-base facilities.

    Commemoration begins on Sunday morning with a service at the Parish Church.  At the Parish Hall on Tuesday Rear Admiral Sir Edmund Irving will present the vellum in

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  • Crew of Appledore's inshore rescue boat 21.10.1977

    Wildenwrath Whizzer RNLI boat 21.10.1977

    Crew of Appledore's inshore rescue boat 21.10.1977

    Appledore inshore crew

    The crew of Appledore's inshore rescue boat "Wildenwrath Whizzer" can look forward to a restful winter after a hectic summer in which they made 24 rescues. 

    The "Whizzer" will be taken to Poole at the end of the month for annual servicing ready to resume her duties next March. (sorry article does not include crew names).

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  • Younger members not coming forward 19.11.1954

    Appledore lifeboat branch meeting 19.11.1954

    Younger members not coming forward to help lifeboat cause 19.11.1954

    younger members Concern over the fact that younger people were not coming forward to play their parts in voluntary organisations was expressed at the annual meeting of the Appledore branch of the RNLI held at Bideford Town Hall.

    Comments on the point came from the hon. treasurer, Mr W J G Coad and Captain H L Morgan in the course of tributes to the work of the Ladies' Lifeboat Guild.  Although younger members were not coming forward to take their share, the older members of the Ladies' Lifeboat Guild were carrying on

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  • Two by two

    17 August 1951

    The Torridge has seen many strange craft come and go but none more unique than the children’s Noah’s Ark pictured above on her Board of Trade trials on the river on Friday.

    17.8.1951 Bideford Ark

    Painted in bright colours, the Noah’s Ark was built by Messrs M W Blackmore and Sons, of New Road, Bideford, to the orders of Weston-super-Mare Corporation for use on the town’s Marine Pleasure Lake.
    The cartoon figures seen in nautical garb are the work of Mr Charles King, the Bucks Mills artist.
    The full Gazette article is dated 17 August 1951

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  • Founded in 1870

    4 January 1963

    After weeks of uncertainty the Bideford boatbuilding firm of M W Blackmore and Sons Ltd is to go into liquidation, a meeting of shareholders has decided.

    4.1.1963 Blackmore to close

    A liquidator has been appointed.
    The managing director, Mr Harold Blackmore, said that at a meeting of creditors on Friday no one had any alternative to put forward.
    The family business, which was founded at Appledore in 1870, has been Bideford’s biggest employer of labour.
    The full Gazette article is dated 4 January 1963

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  • Busiest year in the long history of Appledore lifeboat 05.10.1973

    Photo of Appledore crew 05.10.1973

    Busiest year in long history of Appledore lifeboat 05.10.1973

    busiest year in history Appledore lifeboat service has had its busiest year since it was established in 1825.  To date there have been 26 service calls in which 23 lives have been saved.

    In one spell it made 5 rescues in four days.  "We hardly stopped one week," said Mr Wickersham.  On the recent call to the yacht Chong Peng, because of storm force winds and extra man was taken.

    Picture shows left to right: R Cann (second coxswain), P Ford (helper), M Bowden, J Wills, R Fisher, B Williams (second mechanic), Eric Wartnaby, J

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  • ML Guardwell

    24 March 1972

    Bideford Shipyard Ltd have just completed a vessel for HM Customs.

    24.3.1972 Bideford Shipbuilders

    Successful trials of the ML Guardwell were completed last week and she is to be delivered within the next few days to the Customs authorities at Plymouth. Sixty feet long, she has a speed of 11 knots and is extremely manoeuvrable, being capable of turning round at nearly full power in 1½ times her length.
    She will be delivered under the command of Captain T Jewell, who for many years skippered the Kathleen and May, now owned by the Maritime Trust and which this week was moored in Sutton

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  • Lundy connection

    23 June 1967

    A plaque from the battleship H.M.S. Montagu, which was wrecked on Lundy in 1906, was presented to St. Mary’s Church, Appledore, for safe keeping at Sunday’s evening service.

    23.6.1967 Montagu plaque 1

    23.6.1967 Montagu Plaque

    It was presented by Captain Nelson Clover, R.N. retd., now 80, who was a midshipman on the Montagu when she ran aground.

    In the photograph above Captain Glover (right) is seen holding the plaque at the church gate. Accompanying him is the Rev. Gilbert Molesworthy, of “Berrimans,” Northam, to whom he originally gave the plaque and who suggested it should find a home in Appledore Parish Church, which has other maritime links.

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  • Appledore's new lifeboat 19th April 1962

    Lifeboat engine trials 19th April 1962

    Appledore's new lifeboat April 19th 1962

    appledores new lifeboat

    Appledore's new lifeboat, which has undergone engine trials, will, it is hoped, be ready to leave the yards of her Isle of Wight builders next month.  Provisional date for delivery is May 15th.

    The second photograph shows the view of the wheelhouse and engine casing from the fo'c'sle.  Travelling to the Isle of Wight to fetch her will probably be Coxswain Sydney Cann, the mechanic, Mr Leon Richards (who has been with the vessel on her trials) and Capt. Pat Brennan (local secretary of the R.N.L.I.).  She will be handed over by Sir Eric

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  • Green Ranger

    22 February 1963

    Silver medal for coxswain: ‘Green Ranger’ service

    In recognition of the ‘courage, determination and faultless seamanship by Coxswain Sydney Cann, so ably assisted by his crew’ in going to the help of the Admiralty tanker – Green Ranger – which went ashore on the rocks at Hartland, awards have been made by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

    To Coxswain Cann goes the institute’s silver medal and accompanying vellum, and to the other seven members the thanks of the institution inscribed on vellum. They are: Second Coxswain J R Bowden, bowman W G Cann, motor mechanic L G W Richards, assistant mechanic T

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  • Captain Small

    15 December 1972

    Captain Adrian Small

    15.12.1972 Brixham skipper Golden Hind

    The 104ft replica of Drake’s famous ship, the Golden Hind, now being built at Messrs Hinks and Son’s yard, Appledore, will be commanded by Captain Adrian Small, of Spaniards, Ranscombe Road, Brixham, when she sets sail for America next year.

    Captain Small earlier this year completed a tour of the Canadian Lakes in the Nonsuch, a replica of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s first trading ship which was built at the same Appledore yard.

    When complete the Golden Hind, which sets sail from Plymouth, will weigh 100 tons and feature three masts and 14 cannon.

    Gazette article dated

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  • Prior to sailing to San Francisco

    29 June 1973

    On tomorrow’s early morning tide the full scale replica of Sir Francis Drake’s ‘Golden Hinde’ sets sail from Appledore, where she has been built at Hinks’ yard, to carry out sea trials.

    Golden Hinde 29.6.1973

    She leaves Richmond Dock about 7am and returns on the evening tide about 6pm.

    Her construction and fitting out has taken 21 months and to handcraft her out of traditional materials has cost some £250,000. She has been recreated for owners in San Francisco to commemorate Drake’s landing in the area in June 1579 on his epic circumnavigation of the world.

    Captain Adrian Small and a crew of

  • Golden Hinde

    30 March 1973

    Leaded lights in the Golden Hinde replica,

    30.3.1973 Ford Golden Hinde

    which is to be launched from the shipyard of J Hinks and Son, Appledore, on the evening of April 5, are the work of Mr John Ford, aged 22, whose mother, Mrs P Ford lives at 35 New Street, Torrington.

    Altogether there are 15 such lights, and they are tinted antique green. Mr Ford has also included a few 100-year-old pieces of glass he had in his possession.

    After attending Torrington County Secondary School, he did a three-year diploma course at Bideford School of Art. He had a spell with Dartington Glass at

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  • First tankers arrive at new depot

    Shell Mex and BP Ltd

    First tankers arrive at new depot 11th April 1958

     

    first tankers arrive at new depot Easter saw the arrival of the first five tankers at the new Shell-Mex and BP Ltd depot at East Yelland which is the first example of the pattern of streamlined distribution evolved by the company for meeting the petroleum needs of the Westcountry.

    The new depot receives its supplies by sea from the BP refinery at Llandarcy and the Shell refinery at Stanlow.

    From the Yelland depot road tankers will distribute the petroleum products, including aviation fuel to RAF Station, Chivenor, over an area within a radius of 35 miles. 

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  • Golden Hinde

    13 April 1973

    Peace such as it had not known for 12 months or more returned to the Watertown shipyard of Messrs J Hinks and Son at Appledore on Friday morning.

    13.4.1973 Golden Hinde

    The lofty building that had become a Mecca for thousands, and out of which the Golden Hinde replica had slid so sweetly the night before, seemed strangely empty. A sense of achievement and satisfaction had been left, but it could not wholly dispel a sense of anti-climax.

    Principal of the firm, Mr Alan Hinks, agreed to its presence. ‘But we have a small trawler and other boats to carry on with. There

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  • Hours of work

    6 October 1978

    May not be all that unusual, but copper sails and silver-plated hulls make those constructed by Mr Ronald Grose of Appledore something special.

    6.10.1978 Grose Appledore ships

    Mr Grose is a perfectionist, his models not only being made almost exactly to scale but in every part, all of which he makes himself, he employs the original boat building construction method. If the hull of an original vessel was planked and riveted, for instance, then so is the hull of Mr Grose’s replica. One of his recent silver/copper models is a magnificent one of the Cutty Sark under full sail. Another is a wooden model

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