RN Minesweepers: Ton Class

[tonclass]

Anyone one out there got any LARGE pix of the Ton class/Ham class/Ley class sweepers/hunters that could be added to the TCA archives ?
Anything accepted.
Regards
Rik

[Alan B]

Hello Rik
These are only baby photos I'm afraid. If only I had the cameras I've had in recent years. The number of times over the years I've gone on the Gosport ferry and looked over to Vernon and seen the Tons berthed 4 and 5 deep. :(

[tonclass]

Hello Rik
These are only baby photos I'm afraid. If only I had the cameras I've had in recent years. The number of times over the years I've gone on the Gosport ferry and looked over to Vernon and seen the Tons berthed 4 and 5 deep. :(
Much appreciated Alan. Alas Vernon has all but been obliterated. I've been to Gunwharf Quays since it was transformed and it's very hard to imagine how it used to look when I was a baby matelot, stationed there in years gone by.
(Apart from the Main Gate)
Is it possible to get copies of your pix in a VERY LARGE format ?
The TCA web email address is webmaster@tca2000.co.uk if you could find time to allow us some copies for the archives.
All the very best
Rik
PS. It's very unusual to see photo's taken from the Gosport side of Pompey dockyard. Most seem to be taken from the Round Tower on the East side.

[Alan B]

Hello again Rik
I've sized the 3 photos up to between 330 and 390kb, is that ok size wise? If yes I'll e-mail them to the address.

One of the saddest moments for me when Vernon closed was when the lit-up HMS Vernon on the waterside was no more.

I lived in the block of flats by Gosport bus station from 1999-2006 so you can imagine the amount of photos I've got of ships in and out of the harbour.

All the best
Alan

[tonclass]

Sounds good Alan. Many thanks.
Got some great arial shots of Vernon from 1977 if interested.
Rgds
Rik

[Alan B]

I sent them yesterday Rik, hope they are ok.
Alan

[tonclass]

Sent you an email in reply, Alan.
Rik

[tonclass]

Cheers for the photo's Alan. I've tweaked them with Paintshop and can re-post them here if you are agreeable.
Rik

[Alan B]

Yeah go for it Rik, be interesting to see.
Alan

[tonclass]

Ok, here goes. (Incidently, I served on 2 of the sweepers shown - Hubberston & Nurton)

[Alan B]

Great stuff Rik
Small world
Alan

[tonclass]

Have you any idea when the pix were taken Alan ?

[Alan B]

The camera I had at the time was an old Praktica so I'd say the early to mid 90's ish

[tonclass]

Cheers Alan.
Rik

[jonti]

Hi Rik. I served in HMS Calton based at Harwich in 1955-56 and in December 1955, 4 'Coastals' sailed up the Thames to the then Pool of London for a wild weekend. The photo shows all 4 berthed with M1148 outboard and Calton M1118 one of the 2 in the centre.

[rumrat]

Nice shot M1148 is ILLMINGTON looks like CALTON is inboard of her.
Regards
Dave

[tonclass]

Many thanks Jonti. Have you any more ?
Has anyone any more ??
Rgds
Rik

[Alan B]

Hiya Rik
I've just found this one I took at the Festival of the Sea in 1996. Again it's not too clear I'm afraid. I had to shoot into the sun. She was moored up the trot in Pompey.
Alan

[rumrat]

Alan, Looks like WILTON with the class room on her sweep deck in lieu of any sweep gear.
Regards
Dave

[Alan B]

Cheers Dave.
Rik I have emailed it to the TCA.

[tonclass]

Hi Alan. Pic received. Will archive it along with the others.

PS. Dave's right, she IS Wilton.

[astraltrader]

Rik - I have just come across your thread of last October when you were requesting pictures and photographs of Ton Class and other RN minesweepers.
Without any exaggeration I have dozens of photographs of Tons and other minewseepers that I took at Plymouth, Devonport, Penzance and other locations between 1985 and 2000. My problem is locating them amongst the heap of boxes of photographs I have stashed in my attic! Anyway to get the ball rolling I had a quck root and have come up with a few that will give you an idea of the sort I have taken. If they are of any interest let me know and I will root out some more from time to time. None of them have ever been seen by anyone until now! It was the age before digital cameras and I just got reels of ships developed. In all honesty I was not particularly interested in minesweepers/layers and the ones I have were taken whilst waiting for other ships - which explains why they are stuffed away in wallets. Also the quality varies a bit...[phew!]
Anyway amongst the first box I opened were the "Tons" listed below...

As well as those there were also photos of the following minesweepers/layers which I will just list.
M2003. M2004. M2005. M2006. M2007. M2008. M2014.
M105 [2]. M644 [2]. M40 [2]. M41. M31. N21.
Let me know if you wish to see any of them.

In your original thread you talked about sending the images you were interested in to a site that were keeping a database of them. That is fine by me - but I would like them to be credited to Terry Dickens.

Finally it has just occurred to me that maybe KC might find one or more of them of interest. If so please use! If there are any RN ships/subs in service between say 1984-2000 that anyone here needs a photo of let me know and the chances are I will have them if they have been to Plymouth - but it might take me a few weeks to track them down!

[tonclass]

You Superstar !!

That is just what I'm after. All your pix of the TON class, as well as you're offer of other sweepers was just what I was looking for !!

They will be acknowledged as to ownership, when added.

So very much obliged......

Rik

[herakles]

Yet another satisfied customer!

[astraltrader]

You Superstar !!

That is just what I'm after. All your pix of the TON class, as well as you're offer of other sweepers was just what I was looking for !!

They will be acknowledged as to ownership, when added.

So very much obliged......

Rik

A pleasure to help Rik. I will make a weekly pilgrimage to the Attic and pull a box down at a time weeding out all pertinent sweepers. Could you let me know as soon as possible which other sweepers [as well as the Tons] that you would like photos of? Also did you want any of the other ones that I listed earlier in this thread? I would like to clear this box out of the way before I trawl through the next one!

[kc]

astraltrader, I most certainly do find these of interest.

We would love to add them to the site (on the ships pages) with your permission, and of course any credit note / copyright you wish. We are always on the look out for more private collections of ships to add, from any era.

Thanks for taking the time to post these.

[astraltrader]

Sir - PM sent...

[tonclass]

All sweeper pix are most welcome Terry.

Many thanks again

Rik

[jbryce1437]

Great pics Terry.
Interested in anything painted grey, or black if it is a sub:D

[astraltrader]

JB - I do have quite a few of these as well my friend. I will get a list of which ones I have uncovered so far and come back to you to choose, but with the demands I have received so far for different types of ships combined with other commitments I have this weekend it is liable to be mid week before I manage to expedite...

[jbryce1437]

Thanks Terry, in your own time.

[Hookie]

Great pics Terry.
Interested in anything painted grey, or black if it is a sub:D

And if it ain't painted, then clearly it wasn't nailed down!




:D

[Graham01]

HI all

Firstly let me say hello to all as I am a new member of this site, My interest is Nautical and Maritime history and research. At the moment I am trying to save the HMS Kellington, Now known as the TS Kellington, a ton-class moored in Stockton.

The ship is unfortunately land locked which is the main problem, She is run down but well afloat. She is also in the middle of a new development and as such is deemed to be not wanted by the very same people who put her there in 1993.

For any interested party I can send reports made on the ship and more details. But what I really do need is any form of plans anyone may have of this class.

I know it is a cheeky request from such a new user but I just hope someone can help in this matter. Myself and some others do have a plan for the short/medium term and then long term. but in order to make them public I need deck plans or measurements of all the different quarters and rooms. Our final intention is to make her sea going again but this may be several years down the line. ( first we have to impress MP and council it is worth saving ).

Graham

[herakles]

Welcome Graham! I hope your stay here is long and interesting.

It seems you have a daunting task with TS Kellington. It sounds thoroughly worthwhile and I wish you every success with the venture. Keep us fully informed please. (And good luck with the MP and the Council!!)

[rumrat]

Contact Rik at the Ton Class Association website iv'e no doubt he'll be able to help you out.The latest i heard on KELLINGTON is that it's a forgone conclusion that she's going to be broken up insitu,you seem to have other ideas good luck matey .
Regards
Dave


tca_website@hotmail.com

[Stan.J]

Concur Dave, She is to be broken up in situ. Apparently she is to far gone to save. It wouldn`t be possible to sail her out of the Tees anyway as bridges have been built since she was first tied up. So unable to navigate out.

[Graham01]

Hi Herakles, rum rat and Stan J

Many thanks for the warm welcome and advice. I have spoken to Rick and he and Bob have been very helpful.

The matter of the Kellington is still been debated as such within the Council, the latest Arts Leisure and Culture Select Committee review stating that the Kellington is set to be removed from her berth. Although this is not definite as yet.

I am still preparing my full report and outline for the Council and MP but it is going well. I have also been asked by the papers to allow them to print our side of the story in a press release which again is almost finished.

The Co's I have been speaking to with the plans for the K has also shown a interest in the Bronington. This is if the K does not materialize the same plan can be used in the Bronington and maybe at least one of these ships will be saved.

I apologies for the delay in replying here but have just stumbled up with your replies. I really must check more often.

I will of course keep you updated with any relevant information or news we hear of.

Again many thanks and I hope to speak to you all soon

Graham

[Graham01]

Hi All

Following on from my last post here we have been asked to put in a full detailed costing and feasibility report by the council.

The report itself is almost there I am just awaiting some detailed drawings of equipment to be fitted to turn her back into a full educational ship, Which if plans work we will be returning the K back to sea where she belongs.

Although we do have prices for most of the work we are always looking for alternate information.

It would greatly help if anyone can tell us of a supplier for the following items

Deck Decking, We want to be as close as possible to the original. as we have been unable to decide what can be saved we are going ahead and costed the full decks into the costings. We would however appreciate anyone who can pin point a supplier for the wood. We have had to get a price from abroad (France) for this as a UK dealer cannot be found who can supply the quantity in the correct length and width.

Hull Planking. There is a considerable amount of damage to some of the hulls planks which need replacing. Again finding a English supplier is not as easy as we had thought. Plus with political things been as they are the African Mahogany is not easy to get hold of.

Bulk purchase of Caulking. Many suppliers will supply us with vast amounts of Caulking, but will not give bulk price, so we know it originally is sold in 500kg bails, and higher, but we are unable to get a price for this in that quantity. We are only been given 12kg bail price. Considering how much we need for the complete decks and hull that is a lot of 12Kg bails. Any ideas folks

Paint. An easy one ? well it would be but try to find a large bulk quantity of RN Grey paint with the same No so it is all the same color.

Man power!!!!!!!! this is the hardest to find.

The ground work is complete now the real work begins.

Graham

[tonclass]

Many thanks for the update, Graham. I've been eagerly awaiting some more news, since your last post. If I may, I'll copy your posting and send it around our Assoc, with a glimmer of hope that someone can help.

Update: Have sent an email out to all interested parties in the TCA. Await a response !!

Why is the Kellington/Bronington etc painted in that awful shade of Green/Grey paint of late ? Isn't there enough 'Battleship Grey' left these days ???

HMS Gay Archer seems to have been blighted with this colour as well.

[jbryce1437]

Encouraging news indeed, Graham. I hope that you succeed in your endeavours.
She appears to be the last remaining Royal Navy ship built at the Southwick, Sunderland, shipyard of William Pickersgill (Kedleston was the only other Ton class built at the yard). During the war, the shipyard built several Loch/Bay class corvettes and landing craft L3033 & L3034 for the war effort. The yard was later amalgamated with the shipyard of Peter Ausin, and was renamed Austin & Pickersgill Ltd in the late 1950's. I worked at Austin & Pickersgill's shipyard in 1962, before joining the RN. Another ship that was built at the yard was the survey ship HMS Dalrymple (ex Loch Glass, ex HMS Luce Bay)

[astraltrader]

Best of luck with the project Graham. From what the others have said there seems to be enough local history involved with this ship to make her well worth saving...

[Graham01]

Hi Rick and all

My apology for not answering mails quicker here and for the slow updates. Rick thanks so much I know what a great help yourself and Bob have been with information and I cannot thank either of you enough.

As for the color It seems there is a lack of the correct battleship grey color. I have to admit I have not tried hard as yet top find it but was advised that the grey original color is not a easy task to fin in quantity. I will hope when it comes to painting the ship we will be able to find the closest match to what she was in her service.

Hi Jbryce1437, Thank you for the well wishes, and we hope like you that we do succeed got to admit there was a few times when we was ready to through the towel in but it seems we have got through to a few people who are prepared to listen and hopefully do something, we are at that paperwork shuffling now where if we make a mistake now we could be back to square one,

I may even be bending your ear my friend ( I think you may of already helped in a big way not too sure) , I see you are only in Sunderland maybe when we need a lot of tech details we can meet up with a glass or two and swap notes. Thanks for the bit of history as well it may come in useful.

Hi Astraltrader Again thanks for the well wishes.

I again thank you all for your help and encouragement, I will try to keep you informed here on a weekly basis if nothing else, but I have this feeling that you may be fed up of seeing me when the little questions start flooding in 

Thanks again it is appreciated
Gtraham

[Graham01]

HI All

Just to keep you all informed, we have finally been given the date for the meeting which is early June. We have to put foreword our plans which have now been done and we are talking to a heavy lifting company who assure us that they can lift the Kellington out with approval from the council which we will endeavor to obtain now.

Let you know more when we have more available

Graham

[astraltrader]

Really impressed if you can carry this one off sir! [no pun intended!].

[Graham01]

Hi Astraltrader

Many thanks sir and lets say we are closer as each day passes to making it happen.

One never knows we may get to carry a large take away yet :-)

Graham

[brinton08]

:D Thanx for the photo's of Brinton. As an ex matelot, I have been searching for photo's of my past. I suffer from bad memory loss since a brain op in 92 & have trouble remembering these sort of things. (I do remember my medical discharge though.) Thank you again.

[tonclass]

Send me a PM with your email address on it and I'll send you some more photo's of Brinton. Alternatively visit www.tca2000.co.uk and contact me via the website.

[tim lewin]

GREY PAINT;

If this is still of intetrest a source of Light Admiralty Grey would be your local farm equipment supplier. This is the same colour used to paint the Ferguson tractors and accessories. They also do a Dark Ad. Grey but I can tell you the light is as closer match for the standard pussers issue as you might find, its good quality and not overly expensive.
tim

[Joseph]

Graham,

How are your plans for the K going.

Regards Charles

[Graham01]

Good morning to all.

I am trying to update all and apologies if anyone Reading this has either read same elsewhere or not seen elsewhere it will be there eventually.

we had our first meeting with the Stockton Council on Tuesday of this week, Also present was a member of the water authority.

The meeting went well and we have two more meetings planned for the next month and two month.

We have been asked to supply full documentations for areas which is of importance to them and we are now preparing these.

One of the areas the Council has asked for is letters of acknowledgment from people or businesses or Establishments so we can prove it is a wanted restoration. If any one can help in this or indeed just wants to send us a letter with no catch please do so it will help us greatly.

I have managed today to get the confirmation on insurance we needed. That was one of the criteria that they applied, we had to prove we could get insurance for the ship its Restoration and any other environmental issues we may cause.

We now have a few sources of materials put to us which is been worked on as we speak , selection for this will take place in the next three weeks and finalized before the 8 week time meeting.

We have now entered the hard work stage of getting it all put together.

I want to thank all the people who have backed our idea up to now as we owe you a great debt it has urged us to carry on with this.

If any one wants more information lease ask us or ask through here we are monitoring boards which we have posted to and always answer private mails.

Regards to all and again thank you
Graham

[Graham01]

Hi Joseph

Sorry our posts appear to of crossed so hope my mail above answers you sir and many thanks

Graham

[Joseph]

Cheers Graham,

Can you post an address for letters, electronic would probably get you more replies.

Keep up the good work, are you holding any fundraisers, awareness days etc.

Regards Charles.

Tim,

Thats forum power, I certainly would not think of going to a farm equipment supplier.

Regards Charles

[Graham01]

Hi Joseph

Many thanks for your reply. In answer yes indeed if the moderators don't mind, I will send a mail to them with my postal address ( I think that would be Rick who I send the mail to isn't it?) and if it is allowed to post it I am sure he will let me know. ( I don't mind I am just not sure if there is any legality here or not)

As for electronic support they can be sent to my private mail address:
graham7760@sky.com or to the society address hemlingtonnhs@gmx.co.uk or to the the new address which is been set up exclusively for the Kellington which I have not got to hand but will post later.

If anyone does want my snail address I will be only to pleased to supply on the board or by private message until I am told by mod/admin it is OK to post it.

Graham

[Graham01]

Hi Again Joseph, Sorry Charles. ( I have been correcting that all morning and just realised it is your name I apologies)

I also have ton apologies as I forgot to answer your other questions.

s for fundraisers or awareness days, There is none planned as yet but hopefully we will be doing so later on yes. I will keep you informed on this

Graham

[Joseph]

Graham,

Message sent, thank you for keeping us informed.

Regards Charles

[Graham01]

Hi Charles

Thank you and acknowledged. It is much appreciated

Graham

[Graham01]

HI Tim,

First I apologies as I did not see this post just a answer which I thought was something different.

GREY PAINT;

If this is still of interest a source of Light Admiralty Grey would be your local farm equipment supplier. This is the same color used to paint the Ferguson tractors and accessories. They also do a Dark Ad. Grey but I can tell you the light is as closer match for the standard pussers issue as you might find, its good quality and not overly expensive.
tim

That is actually a great idea and one I had not thought of, I do however know a couple of restores of Tractors, One local to me in Whitby and one in France.

I will seriously look into that many thanks

Graham

[tim lewin]

I sold me Fergie a few months ago, it was the 4 cyl diesel and if i spent the time i spent on starting it on cutting the field i cd have done it with nail scissors! The colour was spot on tho (as you can see), I will look in the barn to see if the tin is still there, if not my local supplier was Culverwells at Robertsbridge, East Sx. I think the masker was "Farm Paints" or similar, I think they did/do all the correct old tractor colours. Which make you wonder if the Ferguson factory had an in with the Admiralty in those distant days when they first introduced their excellent little tractor, it went red later when they tied up with Massey...
good luck

[Graham01]

Hi Tim

Many thanks for that information, If you do still have the tn I would be appreciate of the maker name of paint and if poss color code. (should they have one). I will look up the information you have already supplied and as said Thank you.

I can remember as a lad (all those moons ago now) we used to have a static on a farm in Cayton bay Scarborough, We knew the owner well and I used to go with him in the field and do the hay bailing, That picture has brought back many memories. On a side note it looks exactly like the gents who I know in Whitby. Do you renovate as a hobby or just because it was there?

Looking at the color it does make one wonder if the Admiralty and Farms had a union somewhere. It would make sense I suppose in many ways.

Regards
Graham

[tim lewin]

I will go and look at lunch time; its not really a hobby, i can do it if i have to! i actually bought that one in a restored condition because i needed a little tractor to cut my field but the fuel system leaked fuel out and air in, never a good thing with diesels. I had a couple of the older TVO/petrol ones before which I also sold, its much easier nowadays to hire my neighbouring farmers smallest tractor to drag my ancient cutter round 3 times a year. The hobby part when time allows focusses on the Austin 10, MGB and Reliant Scimitar!

[Graham01]

I will go and look at lunch time; its not really a hobby, i can do it if i have to! i actually bought that one in a restored condition because i needed a little tractor to cut my field but the fuel system leaked fuel out and air in, never a good thing with diesels. I had a couple of the older TVO/petrol ones before which I also sold, its much easier nowadays to hire my neighbouring farmers smallest tractor to drag my ancient cutter round 3 times a year. The hobby part when time allows focusses on the Austin 10, MGB and Reliant Scimitar!

HI Tim

Please do not rush my friend any time you are there will do. It sounds interesting and to be honest never thaught of doing a tractor up but the Austin 10 sounds great, I had a maths teacher who drove one of those and loved it. The MG is of course a true classic but my fav there is the Reliant Scimitar, There is something about those cars that is so lovely. I wish I had
one .

Regads
Graham

[tim lewin]

we could come to and agreement on this! the scimitar is a constant source of entertainment, fortunately not for the forum but i will post you a private msg later about it. Prob put you off for life. The A10 i was given when I was 16 to stop me buying a motorbike, we have grown up. and old, together...
sorry I didnt check the paint, work kept me at the desk but I will..
all best
tim

[astraltrader]

Graham post me your snail address via PM and I will send a letter supporting your restoration as a worthwhile project...

[astraltrader]

Fine machine Tim!

[Graham01]

HI Tim

As I said my friend no worry on information just yet, plus if we where ready to start to paint the weather is a bit wet at moment. I will look foreword to the mail though and nice car

Astraltrader have sent mail address to you many thanks

Graham

[tim lewin]

Sorry Graham, I must have thrown the can away, it was mostly gone anyway and without the tractor there was no need to keep it! did you get the details from Culverwells or wd you like me to do it?
Thanks for kind words about the old car, that needs attention too!

[Graham01]

HI Tim

Not a problem mate, it is still on my to do list, which seems to be growing more and more each day :-) if you should be going there and don't mind I would be grateful but please don go out of your way . It is not as though I need it tomorrow sort of thing :-) ( I wish I did though )

On a side note by the time I have finished this week I am going to be a specialist and expert on tea and Iroko wood. I have spoken to no less than 12 people now and finally found a company who has experience in the renovation of ships so we may get somewhere, plus he may be able to get Teak:-) ( a bit of a coo at moment that)

Graham

[tim lewin]

I actually have a good relationship with the restoration team at the Cutty Sark, we presented them with a new lower deck which is actually pitch pine (from a Russian sawmill i represent, their boss was very saddened by the fire and came up with the offer next day) so if you need me to ask them for sources of hardwoods for decking, caulking and all that shipwright stuff i would be very happy to do it. They have invited me and the Russians to visit and see how they are getting on when they are next over, whcih as luck would have it is prob between now and end of June, so its a good time to pass me you shopping list!
tim

[Graham01]

Hi Tim

What a great story and a very touching one at that. I will send you a PM with the shopping list, I have been talking to Hans Ng of Brook Bros today, who supplied the upper decking of reclaimed timber for the Cutty Sark, and am due to speak to him again tomorrow. Plus Hans has offered me a look at the wood for the S/C which I hope to manage as I have to come down south in next few weeks for a meeting with a gent in Exeter. Caulking we are really stuck on at moment, I can only find it in small bales and not the 500Kg bails I know they come in to suppliers. But basically anything to do with things like decking and woodwork throughout the ship. I dare not even try to source the Mahogany for the hull plankings.

Honestly at the moment any help is a great help I am snowed under with mails and letters and phone calls to ring back etc. Plus the meeting is looming and have not started on the main report yet :-)

Thanks again Tim and as I say I will send a PM in the next few days when I have a list to send, Am still working from top of my head at moment and pieces of paper in a muddle not a nice list.

[astraltrader]

Hi Graham - so what is dragging you down to Exeter!

[Graham01]

Hi Atraltrader

I really don't know to be honest as it was supposed to say Essex !!!!!

But I hope to meet Don Smith from Wivenhoe, and visit the museum come training building.

So while I am down I will pop over to Maldon in Essex. as to where I got Exeter from I don't really know. Although I see you are there I suppose I could of popped in to your local and joined you for a pint or two :-)

Graham

[Graham01]

HI.

This is just a quick update for interested parties,

Over the past few weeks we have been doing the serious number crunching on costs, when all is taken into consideration and this included replacing the whole deck with Teak (fully FSC and recycled) we can now show any interested parties we can keep the price below the price they quote for scrapping. In fact we have around £50,000 pound to play with for small items andsundry costs if we only had the scrapping value. Unfortunately this does not get the ship back to sea as lifting out etc is still been costed but that will be a lot higher.

The renovation and simulator costs in order to turn her back into a training ship of far better quality than she was, is £250,000 . The up to date price of scrapping is £300,000. We were winning on points up to now, now we are winning on all areas.

We had a meeting this morning and have decided if we need to leave the Kellington where she is and just save her through preservation and future use, we will try again to get information on the Bronnington. Should there council or representative wish now to meet we can be ready in under a week with all information for them.

I will give further updates as and when we get them.

Graham

[tim lewin]

Dear Graham, i was talking with the director of HMS Belfast this morning, they have plans to re-do the quarterdeck, so I asked him about sourcing industrial quantities of caulking and light Ad grey for you. I will prob pop in for a coffee with him on monday morning so hope by then he will have names and numbers for you.
Good luck with your efforts
tim

[Graham01]

Hi Tim

Many thanks for that it will be a great help, and I apologies I have not got round to sending you that mail, I will try to get it together over the weekend.

Thanks for well wishes as well my friend I will be in touch asap

[Graham01]

Hi All

Apologies for not been around, Been a bit busy with projects etc. I hope you will be interested in the following update which is a abridged version of the full newsletter, Should anyone wish the newsletter please drop me a line.

The Aug abridged version is as follows:

Progress report

1. At the end of last month and the beginning of this month we approached 2 maritime agencies, The Historic vessels, and Sunderland Maritime Heritage, We felt they may be able to help with letters of support. The replies we obtained where very favorable. And these have been added to the support letters already obtained.

2. We also approached the Stockton Council water Authority regarding keeping the Kellington where she is and renovating her to a standard to use for training. They quickly blew this out of the water so our original plans to remove her are now the only option.

3. Two possible sites has now been found for the lifting out of the ship both of these sites fall within the Stockton area so all permissions will have to come from them. We hope to be in a position to apply for the permissions through the council by the end of this month. A draft planning permission is been wrote up by our solicitors as we speak.

4. The BBC made a report on a similar project although this was land based. They asked us to put our project foreword. We have not done so as yet but we do have a contact for this. We will also be preparing the news press release and awaiting the outcome of the meeting with the council before sending it to the press.

5. We have also been in touch with the MNTB (Maritime Nautical Training Board) regarding obtaining details certification we require. We have been granted the correct ones in readiness and courses have been prepared in readiness.

6. A dry dock near the Kellington’s position has been secured.

7. A meeting with the Wivanhoe’s museum has enabled us to work out tonnages for the lift. A lot more work needs to be done on this so if anyone can estimate the lightest we can get the ship down to it would be appreciated.

8. We now have a second offer for another long term Berth for the Kellington when work is complete.

9. We are also now in talks with a European Sea Cadets Society regarding sponsorship deals. Several companies have also shown a big interest in this form of backing. Our latest figure for financial backing now stands at £666,300.00 plus possible sponsorship on top of this. This figure has the possibility of been higher if we chose to operate as a charity. And not a non profit making organization as we are at the moment.

10. Full insurance cover has been arranged for the Kellington project.

11. Stockton Council informed us after we contacted them that 6 workers where aboard the Kellington removing litter.

12. as well as the Kellington Project, we have also started talks to obtain a second ship, This ship is a ex RN Survey vessel. An initial viewing was done last week where we also met up with, Don Smith of the Nottage society, Hans Ng of Brooks Bros and Bob Dean of the TCA. The purpose of this second ship is for two reasons, Firstly to show we are serious and not as been suggested just playing around. And secondly in order to have a ship working and starting the all important business base.



3. Where we are with the council

1. We have applied for the follow up meeting to take place in September with the aim of removing the Kellington by end of year.



Should you have any questions please contact me through the board here or by personal email.

Hope to chat to you all soon

Graham

[tonclass]

Would the ex-survey vessel be Jonas Hanway or Earl of Romney, Graham ?

[Graham01]

HI Ton Class

She is the Egeria, which is the Jonas Hanway.

Graham

[tonclass]

Cheers Graham. Where is she at the moment. Fareham ?

[Graham01]

No she is in Portsmouth well close to there.

[astraltrader]

Excellent progress Graham. Well done!

[Graham01]

Hi Terry

Nice to see you again, and many thanks.

Graham

[Rob Hoole]

It appears that HMS Bronington is now in the final stages of terminal decline. Just to recap, she was purchased in January 1989 by the Bronington Trust, a registered charity whose patron, HRH The Prince of Wales, commanded her in 1976. She was initially berthed in the Manchester Ship Canal at Trafford Park, Greater Manchester but was added to the collection of the Warship Preservation Trust (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warship_Preservation_Trust) at Birkenhead in 2002. Since the Trust's closure in February 2006 owing to the redevelopment of the adjacent Grade II listed former flour milling warehouses, she has remained at Vittoria Dock, Birkenhead in the custody of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company. The second video below (includes sound) is a particularly poignant 'before and after' illustration of her deterioration during this period.

Peter Emery, the Director of the marina and residential, shopping and entertainment development at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth (built on the old site of HMS Vernon (http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/HMS_Vernon_Master_Page_Frames.htm)) and a staunch supporter of Project Vernon (http://vernon-monument.org/default.aspx), the monument planned to commemorate the minewarfare and diving heritage of HMS Vernon, has posted this message on the Ton Class Association's website forum (http://users.boardnation.com/~tonclass/index.php?board=1;action=display;threadid=145) run by Rik:



I visited HMS Bronington in April 2009 with a view to investigating her condition with the possibility of offering her a berth at Gunwharf Quays as a visitor attraction, cadet training ship, use for the TCA - basically to 'bring her home'.

I was truly saddened to see her current unloved condition. I have shot and edited a couple of home videos and posted them on You Tube. I was hopeful that you may be kind enough to post the following links on your website, with the last hope that someone will show some interest and possibly offer a way out from the breakers, which the local council now say is imminent.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_cGaNjqQ_g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsZWOGDYMc4

If nothing else, I hope that your members will at least have a chance to see her before her fate is sealed.

Her condition is criminal and quite frankly 'official vandalism'. How can this happen to a ship registered as having National Interest?

There is little I can add to Peter's impassioned plea unless there any rich philanthropists out there looking for a worthy project.

http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/Kellington%207%20Apr%2009%20med.jpg
TS Kellington 7 April 2009

With HMS Kellington (until recently, TS Kellington for Stockton-on-Tees Sea Cadets (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/michael.baggett1/page_7.htm)) sinking as the result of vandalism and about to be torn apart, there is only HMS Iveston (now TS Iveston for Thurrock Sea Cadets (http://units.ms-sc.org/Thurrock/About)) and the GRP-constructed HMS Wilton (now heavily modified as the home of the Essex Yacht Club (http://www.essexyachtclub.co.uk/index.html) at Leigh-on-Sea) left in the UK to represent the 118 Ton Class vessels once in service.

[astraltrader]

Very sad to see her like that. If I had the money I would do something about it but sadly...

[AngusOg]

What a shame ... breaks your heart to see her like that .. brought back a lot of memories

[alanbenn]

This is only an assumption but surely 'Prince Charles' must be aware of this situation?

Has anyone contacted him? I would have thought with his obvious connection to the ship he would be in a position more than anyone else to salvage this vessel.

He could perhaps find a berth in Cornwall 'his county' and maybe incorporate the ship into his 'Prince's trust' programme. Help youngsters on the programme go to sea on it, learning all sorts of different skills and who knows some may even end up joining the RN.

I'm sure the funds could be raised with his help.

Regards
Alan

[Fairlead]

Another class of minesweeper that you don't see mentioned much - maybe because they did not last very long - the RIVERS
Here is a photo of WAVENEY at launch stage

Fairlead

[tonclass]

Cheers Fairlead. I served on the Blackwater for nearly two years, teaching the RNR how to operate these ships.

[AngusOg]

OK ... I've lost a thread or two ... Oldtimers has struck again. I recall a thread on CMS and other minesweepers and someone (alanbenn I think ) posted a pic of HMS Amberton / HMS Clyde M1105. What was the title of the thread ...Arrggghhh ...losing it.

[astraltrader]

Angus my friend this is why we have a search facility [see top of page]
As long as you remember to use Amberton rather than HMS Amberton you will find it easily!!

It is the second entry down as it happens but because I am considerate as well as being super efficient then here is a link for you to click on that will take you right to the correct page!!



http://www.worldnavalships.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1374&page=7&highlight=AMBERTON

[AngusOg]

Ahhh thank you so much.

[tonclass]

She's called AMERTON not AMBERTON. This'll help your search.

[astraltrader]

I asked for that!! Still reckon I got the right thread though!!!:p

[JohnD]

Hi all, first post here.

I'm hoping to build a model for my father of the ship he served on, HMAS Snipe (M1102), in the 60's. (formerly the HMS Alcaston until 1961).

I contacted a bloke who runs a website on the HMAS Curlew (M1121) and he's given me the phone number of someone in Perth to compare Snipe and Curlew differences. Unfortunately that's all sitting on my work computer and I'm stuck home sick so I thought I might as well keep searching anyway.

As well as downloading a heap of photos of the Aussie Ton Class sweepers I've also got these two pics to work from:

http://users.qld.chariot.net.au/~dialabull/Layout_files/line%20drawing.jpg

http://users.qld.chariot.net.au/~dialabull/Layout_files/CurlewArmament_small.jpg

Here's the link if anyone wants to have a better look (but I have an inkling most people interested in here may know it already)

http://users.qld.chariot.net.au/~dialabull/Layout.htm

I was wondering/hoping/wishing that there may be any larger scans of some genreal Ton Class plans floating around anywhere that may be available for me to work from?

Any help on this would be very much appreciated.

I'll also post this in the 'Aussie Sweepers' thread as well, in case it gets missed.

Thanks everybody.
John D

[rumrat]

John,
Here's a bigger version of the one you already have ,it's just a general layout of the Ton Class as they were built with open bridges etc.I think that by the time you Aussies got the boat she had been converted with an enclosed bridge.
If you don't already know the Ton Class Association have an excellent site the webmaster is Rik Furnival a regular visitor and moderator of this site to.

www.tca2000.co.uk

Regards
Dave

[tonclass]

Here's a general layout plan for HMS PICTON if it's any use.

[tonclass]

And a sweepdeck view of HMS NURTON (minehunter)

[tonclass]

John, you could always contact the owner of CURLEW. His name is Gary Hamer and his email addy is curlew1121(at)hotmail.com.

[JohnD]

Thank you so much to you both, Rik/tonclass and Dave/rumrat!!

I hardly expected such great images, let alone so FAST!!

Thanks also for the email. I'll be onto that straight away.

If you like I'll try to show progress of the model as it goes along. With luck people may be able to pick up on any errors I might be making.

Thanks again and it is VERY much appreciated!!

JD

[tonclass]

John, if you need any photo's of Snipe just send me a PM with your email address and i'll send you some.

[JohnD]

Done. Thanks!!

[tonclass]

Glad they can help, John.

[dingerII]

hi John D
if you have a look at this website http://www.navyhistory.org.au/ go to CD's and ships plans etc you will find Ton Class Minesweepers for Australia updated to MineHunter also other ships for the Aus navy

any problems contact me and i will give you a contact who may still have a detailed set up in Sydney

good luck

dingerII

[JohnD]

Thanks dingerII, sorry I hadn't said so earlier - I haven't been back for awhile.

I can see I'm going to spend ages just getting ready before I even start!!

[peyk]

ton class turkish naval tranfer canada naval 1958.4 unit mine sweepers
today 3 ships patrol boats task
jpg.gif trapzon.jpg (54.5 KB)
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jpg.gif a601 tekirdasg.JPG (25

[Rob Hoole]

This sad photo of HMS Kellington being dismantled at Stockton last month appears in the latest issue of Ton Talk, the newsletter of the Ton Class Association (TCA (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/)):

http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/HMS_Kellington_being_dismantled_at_Stockton_May_20 09_med.jpg
HMS Kellington being dismantled at Stockton in May 2009
(TCA photo)

See also this article (http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/sport/motorsport-racing/2009/06/21/on-the-scrap-heap-79310-23918999/) from the Newcastle area's Sunday Sun. The writing was on the wall after vandals nearly caused her to sink by trying to remove a condenser in April but it's such a shame to see the loss of yet another Ton. Only Bronington (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/alook.htm), Iveston (http://units.ms-sc.org/Thurrock/About) and the GRP-constructed Wilton (http://www.oldleigh.com/essexyachtclub.html) survive in the UK from this class of over a hundred ships that served the Royal Navy, and the navies of several other countries, so well for half a century.

[harry.gibbon]

Rob I share your sadness, that is not a fine sight and the hooligans well again they get the press.... what about the multitude of great youngsters who will never get the credit for what they do.

The sooner the job (dismantling) is completed now the better we will all feel,

Are you ex RN?

Little h

[Rob Hoole]

Rob I share your sadness, that is not a fine sight and the hooligans well again they get the press.... what about the multitude of great youngsters who will never get the credit for what they do.

The sooner the job (dismantling) is completed now the better we will all feel,

Are you ex RN?

Little h

Hello Harry,

Yes, I left the RN after 32 years but still run the Minewarfare & Clearance Diving Officers' Association website at www.mcdoa.org.uk (http://www.mcdoa.org.uk). I try to make it as entertaining as possible for anyone with an interest in naval minewarfare & diving and recommend the 'Latest News' page as well as the 'HMS Vernon' and 'Branch History' sections.

Best wishes,

Rob

[tomparry]

This sad photo of HMS Kellington being dismantled at Stockton last month appears in the latest issue of Ton Talk, the newsletter of the Ton Class Association (TCA (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/)):

http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/HMS_Kellington_being_dismantled_at_Stockton_May_20 09_med.jpg
HMS Kellington being dismantled at Stockton in May 2009
(TCA photo)

See also this article (http://www.sundaysun.co.uk/sport/motorsport-racing/2009/06/21/on-the-scrap-heap-79310-23918999/) from the Newcastle area's Sunday Sun. The writing was on the wall after vandals nearly caused her to sink by trying to remove a condenser in April but it's such a shame to see the loss of yet another Ton. Only Bronington (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/alook.htm), Iveston (http://units.ms-sc.org/Thurrock/About) and the GRP-constructed Wilton (http://www.oldleigh.com/essexyachtclub.html) survive in the UK from this class of over a hundred ships that served the Royal Navy, and the navies of several other countries, so well for half a century.

Had these 180 photographs passed onto me concerning the break-up of HMS Kellington. A sorry sight.
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=71956&id=590992701&l=3dd6c3673b

tomparry

[tonclass]

Tom see the PM I've sent you.

[SCRG1970]

A question to all you TON Class buffs. What was the criteria that decided that a sweeper should have an enclosed bridge ??
Photos I have of the TON Class show a large variety in dates when these were fitted. Was it when they became Hunters and were all the class eventually modified ????

Regards

Gerry

[SCRG1970]

My last question on this thread went unanswered so after nearly a YEAR!!!! here is another one.

A recent article I read on the Ton Class in Cyprus quoted " the first TON class commissioned in 1953 and others followed quickly. However the first ships were prone to defects spending more time alongside than at sea. It was not until mid 1955 that they were considered reliable enough for deployment outside UK"unquote.

Was this purely a mechanical problem with the early diesels or were there other significant problems ???

I shall revisit in 2011 to see if there are any answers !!!

Regards

Gerry

[tonclass]

My last question on this thread went unanswered so after nearly a YEAR!!!! here is another one.

A recent article I read on the Ton Class in Cyprus quoted " the first TON class commissioned in 1953 and others followed quickly. However the first ships were prone to defects spending more time alongside than at sea. It was not until mid 1955 that they were considered reliable enough for deployment outside UK"unquote.

Was this purely a mechanical problem with the early diesels or were there other significant problems ???

I shall revisit in 2011 to see if there are any answers !!!

Regards

Gerry

Gerry, remiss of me not to answer your previous question. It must have disappeared into the ether before I even noticed it.

The enclosed bridge (Frigate Bridge) came about, as you rightly stated, with the Hunter conversions. They proved so successful that, as all the RN sweepers came in for refit, they got converted. This was not the case for the RNR ships. It was too costly to do the coversion on a ship that wasn't regularly regarded as used on the 'Front Line', so many RNR tons remained 'Open' until their demise. Some where though because they reverted from RNR to RN & then back to RNR again & vice versa.

[tonclass]

Like all 'new-builds' Gerry, there were teething problems with the first of class. Two most noticable changes were the increase in funnel size and the change from Mirlees engines to Deltics.

[tonclass]

HMS CONISTON. First of Class (Although BILDESTON was the first 'Operational' ton)

[mstary1]

Had this photo for some time
and thought I'd scan it for the forum

HMS Crichton

[CYLLA]

BZ photo , i notice she is carrying her ships badge on the front of the bridge ,could any one say , when she got a appointment with "Robinson,s" golly badge??

cylla

[tonclass]

Had this photo for some time
and thought I'd scan it for the forum

HMS Crichton

SUPERB !! Thanks for posting it.

[tonclass]

BZ photo , i notice she is carrying her ships badge on the front of the bridge ,could any one say , when she got a appointment with "Robinson,s" golly badge??

cylla

Try here m8. http://www.gollycorner.co.uk/d_crichton.htm

[CYLLA]

Many thanks RIK ,

Would i be correct that she was of the"FISHERY PROTECTION SQUADRON (ROSYTH)" i am trying to make out her funnel badge.?? in the attment

cylla

[tonclass]

Many thanks RIK ,

Would i be correct that she was of the"FISHERY PROTECTION SQUADRON (ROSYTH)" i am trying to make out her funnel badge.?? in the attment

cylla

Yep !! She was a Fish boat.

[alexrad]

This thread is a good a place as anywhere to post a few photos of HMAS Snipe stuck on a coral reef in Nuku Alofa harbour, Tonga. It happened whilst we were firing a gun salute for the King's birthday (4th July 1981). Curlew could'nt drag us off, as the tide was ebbing. So we had to wait for high tide, so that a inter island merchantman managed to get us off.:o
It gave us an extended stay there, while the RAAF sent us replacement props.

[tonclass]

Alex, see my PM to you

[alexrad]

This photo would'nt attach to the last post.
I bet this has'nt happened to many here. :D

[SCRG1970]

Rik
Many tks for answers. The bridge one makes sense now

regards

Gerry

[JackW1208]

HMS Lewiston, during '71-'72 flew the house flag of KP Nuts company when sweeping. It was obtained after our new skipper came onboard, a Lt. Kemp-Potter. If I remember correctly, a member of the Company came aboard and presented it. Unfortunatly, I don't have any photos of the flag, but it was green background with yellow/gold centre circle with KP in black letters, but cannot remember if the word 'nuts' was used!!

Jack.

[tonclass]

HMS Lewiston, during '71-'72 flew the house flag of KP Nuts company when sweeping. It was obtained after our new skipper came onboard, a Lt. Kemp-Potter. If I remember correctly, a member of the Company came aboard and presented it. Unfortunatly, I don't have any photos of the flag, but it was green background with yellow/gold centre circle with KP in black letters, but cannot remember if the word 'nuts' was used!!

Jack.

Very interesting Jack. I've passed your snippet on to our Historians for inclusion in Lewistons records.

[alexrad]

Alex, see my PM to you
Here are 10 of 13 photos taken on the day of the grounding. I rescanned them to 300ppi.
I hope my laptop works this time. My slow wireless provider wont let me upload them to you unless the're compressed for a website.:mad:
It's taken me over 4 hours to get this far.

[alexrad]

Here are the last 3 photos.
It took over an hour to upload them.
It doesnt help when my wireless provider only gives me a download speed of 116kbps.

[jbryce1437]

A great set of photos Alex and thanks for persevering. We would normally ask for larger photos to be uploaded but, under the circumstances we must be grateful that you have managed to upload what you have;)

Jim

[mstary1]

I'm surprised the XO didn't have you over the side to give the hull a quick scrape and a coat of boot topping!:D

Great photos Alexrad

[alexrad]

No need.
That was done hard working GI dockies a month or two later when we entered a floating drydock in Sydney. ;)

[mstary1]

Another picture of HMS Crichton from the same time as the other pic.

[mstary1]

Taken at HMAS Waterhen
HMAS Curlew. The container in the photo is actually an Operations
room from the Bay Class HMAS Rushcutter now long gone.
So this picture would be around 1989?

[tonclass]

Another picture of HMS Crichton from the same time as the other pic.

Outstanding set of photos !! So very much appreciated !!

[JackW1208]

HMS Bronington circa 70-71 taken from Lewiston in the Firth of Forth.

Jack.

[alexrad]

Here are a few examples of our usual attire at sea on a sweeper/hunter. Civvies were worn so that laundry facilities were used at a minimum to save water in the tropics. The only time we were in uniform was when we came in view of the public.

[SCRG1970]

Recently on the "Special Warship Pictures Gallery" Alan posted some photos of Ton Class with the funnel emblem 101.

Can anyone identify this squadron marking with a date and possible area ??

Regards

Gerry

[JackW1208]

The 101st MSS, of which included Brereton M1113 up to 1962, was South Wales Division RNR.
No idea of location of the photos unfortunately.

Jack.

[astraltrader]

I cant understand why members still dont always provide links to the pictures or post they are discussing as it would save a lot of confusion!!

Alans pictures in the Special Warship Pictures Gallery can be found at this link.

http://www.worldnavalships.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1724196&postcount=1441

.:)

[SAS Somerset]

SAS Durban in dire need of repair. Vessel situated in Durban, South Africa.
Decking waterlogged and peeling off.
Any idea how this can be repaired?

She is slipped every year and had a new transom fitted in 2004.

All SAN Ton class have been scrapped except for SAS Durban and SAS Windhoek. Pretoria was scrapped in Table Bay last year!

[Egypt]

Here's one for the archive, 10th MCM at Gibraltar.
Michael

[tonclass]

All SAN Ton class have been scrapped except for SAS Durban and SAS Windhoek. Pretoria was scrapped in Table Bay last year!

I think you'll find that it is WALVISBAAI, and not WINDHOEK that is still around. She underwent a conversion to private yacht in Sharjah about 5 years ago, post filming of the movie 'A LIFE AQUATIC'.

[rumrat]

Recently on the "Special Warship Pictures Gallery" Alan posted some photos of Ton Class with the funnel emblem 101.

Can anyone identify this squadron marking with a date and possible area ??

Regards

Gerry

The shot of ILLMINGTON was i believe taken at Ostende 1956.

Dave

[CYLLA]

Here's one for the archive, 10th MCM at Gibraltar.
Michael


Hi EGYPT ,

Is there any chance of a larger image ,For the years we were in Gibraltar , our M/Qs were in Cormorant ,it,s so i can print it out and show the Mr,s .
And the berth of H.M.S ARLINGHAM ,was in side "coaling Island."

cylla

[SAS Somerset]

I think you'll find that it is WALVISBAAI, and not WINDHOEK that is still around. She underwent a conversion to private yacht in Sharjah about 5 years ago, post filming of the movie 'A LIFE AQUATIC'.

oh yes sorry the Walvisbaai!
It was sold with bits of the East London. We have a superstructure off a ton class at TS Woltemade near Simonstown and another as part of the museum there.
One of the tons was actually sinking at her mooring prior to scrapping on the hard.

Some bright spark replaced them with the German Lindau class, although these are all sold out of service and used as luxury yachts.

[tonclass]

Any chance of some photo's of the superstructure you mention ?

[SCRG1970]

The 101st MSS, of which included Brereton M1113 up to 1962, was South Wales Division RNR.
No idea of location of the photos unfortunately.

Jack.

Jack
Thanks for the information .Was the 101st just the S Wales Div RNR or all Tons serving with the RNR Divisions ?

The reason I ask is that the other sweeper Ilmington with 101 funnel emblem only served with 105 MSS according to "Minesweepers" edited by the respected JacK Worth !!!

Regards

Gerry

[JackW1208]

Gerry, I have the same book!!

ILMINGTON photo has 105 on the funnel.
DARLSWINTON has 101.

I assume that 101 MSS was all RNR divisions, as it became 10th MCMS (still RNR).

Link included this time:
http://www.worldnavalships.com/forum...postcount=1441


Jack.

[SAS Somerset]

Any chance of some photo's of the superstructure you mention ?

I can get the one at the museum next Sun or end Sept. TS Woltemade will have to wait a bit.

[astraltrader]

Here's one for the archive, 10th MCM at Gibraltar.
Michael


Pity it could not be shown at a decent size, Michael - as it is a good picture.

[tonclass]

I can get the one at the museum next Sun or end Sept. TS Woltemade will have to wait a bit.
That would be great. Thanks for your help.

[Glyn]

Hi Rik and SAS Somerset,
Being based in Gauteng, I haven't been down to Durban since the end of 2007, but when I visited the Maritime Museum on that occasion the SAS Durban was looking decidedly shabby. She was also closed to the public, prior to being repaired and given some much-needed attention (I was told), so I was not able to go aboard. Among other things, one of the windows on the wheelhouse had been smashed and her hull was looking quite dodgy in places. Sadly, her companion at the museum, the magnificent steam tug JR More, wasn't looking much better, clearly lacking the care and attention that she needed, which pretty much reflected the general condition of the museum overall. I don't know whether things have improved since then, but I suspect this isn't the case as there appears to be a lack of interest when it comes to preserving historical items of this nature nowadays, at least in South Africa. Very sad, as these vessels are the last of their kind, and were donated to the museum presumably on the understanding that they would be cared for and maintained for the benefit of future generations.
Regards, Glyn

[SAS Somerset]

Things might have improved since then as I understand both vessel have been slipped within last two years.

Many years ago SAS Kaapstad (ton class) was slated for the Maritime Museum in Cape Town but this never happened and she was cut up.

SAS Durban needs to be displayed on the hard, but cannot see that happening.

[John Langton]

Woolaston on patrol in Malaysian waters in '64-'65, & jackstay transfer with Wilkieston.106272

106273

[Rob Hoole]

http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/TCA%20logo.jpg

A couple of years ago, the Ton Class Association (TCA (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/)) commissioned me to edit a book about the Ton Class MCMVs (Mine Counter-Measures Vessels) to mark its 25th anniversary next year. I am pleased to announce that the publisher has just sent me the proof pages for scrutiny. The 160 page A4 hardback book will be titled 'Last of the Wooden Walls - An Illustrated History of the Ton Class Minesweepers and Minehunters'. It will be launched at the Royal Naval Museum in Portsmouth Naval Base on 9 March 2012 but attendance will be limited to VIPs and paying TCA members.

The cover price of the book is £24.99 but it will be available to TCA members for £19.99 using an order form printed on the flyer shown below which will be distributed with the next issue of 'Ton Talk'. Note that all royalties will go to the TCA. For me and my fellow members of the editorial panel, it has been a sometimes frustrating but eventually rewarding labour of love.

http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/Last%20of%20the%20Wooden%20Walls%20flyer%20med.jpg (http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/Last%20of%20the%20Wooden%20Walls%20flyer.jpg)
Front of 'Last of the Wooden Walls'
four-page flyer

If you were at all associated with this well-loved post-war class of over a hundred vessels that served in the Royal Navy around the world and in several other navies, then I can recommend joining the TCA. Membership is only £10 per year for which you receive an excellent colour magazine called 'Ton Talk' every two months (copies are also sent to our operational MCMVs) and you will have the opportunity to attend the lively regional and annual weekend reunions which alternate between the south and north of England. A membership application form can be found here (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/membership.htm) on the TCA website.

The TCA will also be publishing a companion softback volume titled 'Jacks of All Trades' which will be sold separately. Edited by TCA Honorary Secretary Peter Down, this will contain a photo and brief history of each Ton Class vessel ever built. Unfortunately, restrictions on space precluded its incorporation in the main volume.

[John Langton]

http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/TCA%20logo.jpg

A couple of years ago, the Ton Class Association (TCA (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/)) commissioned me to edit a book about the Ton Class MCMVs (Mine Counter-Measures Vessels) to mark its 25th anniversary next year. I am pleased to announce that the publisher has just sent me the proof pages for scrutiny. The 160 page A4 hardback book will be titled 'Last of the Wooden Walls - An Illustrated History of the Ton Class Minesweepers and Minehunters'. It will be launched at the Royal Naval Museum in Portsmouth Naval Base on 9 March 2012 but attendance will be limited to VIPs and paying TCA members.

The cover price of the book is £24.99 but it will be available to TCA members for £19.99 using an order form printed on the flyer shown below which will be distributed with the next issue of 'Ton Talk'. Note that all royalties will go to the TCA. For me and my fellow members of the editorial panel, it has been a sometimes frustrating but eventually rewarding labour of love.

http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/Last%20of%20the%20Wooden%20Walls%20flyer%20med.jpg (http://www.mcdoa.org.uk/images/Last%20of%20the%20Wooden%20Walls%20flyer.jpg)
Front of 'Last of the Wooden Walls'
four-page flyer

If you were at all associated with this well-loved post-war class of over a hundred vessels that served in the Royal Navy around the world and in several other navies, then I can recommend joining the TCA. Membership is only £10 per year for which you receive an excellent colour magazine called 'Ton Talk' every two months (copies are also sent to our operational MCMVs) and you will have the opportunity to attend the lively regional and annual weekend reunions which alternate between the south and north of England. A membership application form can be found here (http://www.tca2000.co.uk/membership.htm) on the TCA website.

The TCA will also be publishing a companion softback volume titled 'Jacks of All Trades' which will be sold separately. Edited by TCA Honorary Secretary Peter Down, this will contain a photo and brief history of each Ton Class vessel ever built. Unfortunately, restrictions on space precluded its incorporation in the main volume.

Well done to all concerned, ave a wet-- up spirits.

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi All

While watching James May's Man Lab tonight, during the section on coracle building I thougt I spotted what appeared to be a Ton Class sweeper moored in the river. Any ideas anyone?

Mitch Hinde

[Rob Hoole]

Hello Mitch,

That was the stripped-out Hunt class minehunter HMS Brecon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HMS_Brecon_%28M29%29) which is moored at Jupiter Point as a static training ship for HMS Raleigh new entry trainees. There is a good photo of her in her current position here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:HMS_Brecon.JPG).

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi Rob

Thanks for that, thought my eyes were deceiving me for a minute.

Mitch Hinde

[buggins]

A bit belated - but to clarify the query on posts 137 / 147 /148 about squadron numbers - Tons allocated to RNVR Divisions as sea training tenders formed the 101th MSS which when all RN squadrons were renumbered became 10th MSS. The squadron number continued when the Tons were replaced by the Rivers.

[KizmeRD]

The squadron renumbering was effective 1 October 1962 (101st MSS becoming 10th MSS) and from memory, that lasted until sometime around 1979 when the 10th MSS was redesignated the 10th MCM Squadron - probably owing to the fact that the RNR was also operating minehunters by then (HMS Kellington being one of these).
mb
PS RNVR ceased being in 1958 when it was merged in with the RNR to become one.

[SheppeyMiss]

From the Communications in the Royal Navy thread:
I have been following the Post Refit/Conversions: Aerial Arrays-Considerable Variations thread for a while. Whilst reading little h's latest section on Ton Class Coastal Minesweepers/Minehunters from Post #379 (http://www.worldnavalships.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10017897&postcount=379) onwards, a couple of questions came to mind. It's been suggested that I ought to ask them here on the Comms thread. Well that's where all the experts congregate :D

Reading the attachment on post #380 about the AJL (2) aerial (http://www.rnmuseumradarandcommunications2006.org.uk/AJL.pdf), it mentions that it is the non-ferromagnetic version. After a bit of a tour round the RN Museum RADAR & Comms website, I came across several references to MCMV specific equipment. And I wondered why they needed to be "special" for MCMV vessels?

Also, another thought / question, the pdf link speaks about AJL being a transmitter/receiver. Could specific wavelength transmissions trigger off detonation as well as magnetic influences?

I would much appreciate any information to lighten my darkness. It makes reading the postings on the forum so much more interesting when one understands more fully the context in which they are set :)

Missy

Missy,

I too would much appreciate input from the minesweeping/minehunting fraternity on the issues you have raised. Several Comms folk have advised of their drafts to and time on sweepers, althought I am not sure if their service overlapped into the minehunter era and their input would be invaluable. I have often wondered about RADHAZ implications in these classes of vessel.

Perhaps a nudge on one of the MCMV threads might be in order, with an invitation to the readers of those threads to pop in on this thread so that they can be giving of their experience.

Little h
Both Little h and I have a mutual interest in the questions I posed on the Communications in the Royal Navy thread. I wonder if any readers or contributors to this thread might have any answers. I would be very grateful for any information on the subject (and I'm sure Little h would be too).

Regards
Missy

[Rob Hoole]

Non-ferrous metals were used in the TONs wherever possible to reduce their magnetic signature so they would be virtually undetectable by magnetic influence mines. Radio transmissions were irrelevant but eddy current compensation was used to prevent the generation of electro-magnetic fields caused by a ship and her fittings rolling in a seaway. Electrical and electronic equipment, especially the generators, was also shielded to prevent the escape of electro-magnetic influences.

[Bonzo]

I originally posted this picture on the Minesweepers & Minelayers thread not being aware of the Ton Class thread

Malta 1957
104 Minesweeping Squadron
Essington, Kildarton, Rodington, Lullington, Shavington, Carhampton, Leverton, Fenton.

[harry.gibbon]

Non-ferrous metals were used in the TONs wherever possible to reduce their magnetic signature so they would be virtually undetectable by magnetic influence mines. Radio transmissions were irrelevant but eddy current compensation was used to prevent the generation of electro-magnetic fields caused by a ship and her fittings rolling in a seaway. Electrical and electronic equipment, especially the generators, was also shielded to prevent the escape of electro-magnetic influences.

Thank you for your response Rob, I have linked it over in the Comms Thread.

Little h

[SheppeyMiss]

Rob

Thank you for your kind response, an original somewhat idle thought triggered by Little h's posting has started me off on quite a reading project about TON Class minesweepers and the larger subject - much of which I see is authored by your own good self.

Missy

[INVINCIBLE]

I originally posted this picture on the Minesweepers & Minelayers thread not being aware of the Ton Class thread

Malta 1957
104 Minesweeping Squadron
Essington, Kildaston, Rodington, Lullington, Shavington, Carhampton, Liverton, Fenton.

Great picture - I have a similar picture of the 9th MCM Squadron in the Gulf in 1963 I will look for it but in the meantime here is a picture of my Ton - Appleton (I was onboard 63-64).

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi All

This is a question for experienced sweeper men. Were there any instances of sweep wires with explosive cutters attatched snagging on underwater objects, parting, and coming back inboard? While I only served on Wilkieston for a couple of months the salty sea dogs told horrific tales of such occurences and I ofter wondered if this was just a myth.

Mitch Hinde

[harry.gibbon]

Right then Sweeper folk while you are sorting out the answer to Mitch's post #168 above, perhaps you will give consideration to the question I put on the Post Refit/Conversions thread not too long ago .... Trident up or down??? (http://www.worldnavalships.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10017564&postcount=378)

Thanks in anticipation.

Little h

[Rob Hoole]

Right then Sweeper folk while you are sorting out the answer to Mitch's post #168 above, perhaps you will give consideration to the question I put on the Post Refit/Conversions thread not too long ago .... Trident up or down??? (http://www.worldnavalships.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10017564&postcount=378)

Thanks in anticipation.

Little h

Sorry I missed your question earlier but I have now answered it here (http://www.worldnavalships.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10019707&postcount=395).

[tonclass]

Right then Sweeper folk while you are sorting out the answer to Mitch's post #168 above, perhaps you will give consideration to the question I put on the Post Refit/Conversions thread not too long ago .... Trident up or down??? (http://www.worldnavalships.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10017564&postcount=378)

Thanks in anticipation.

Little h

The trident badge shown as the 3rd MCM Squadron funnel badge illustration was originally the other way up. It was first used pointing 'DOWN' by the 50th MSS (Portland AUWE Trials Squadron). It was introduced in 1960 when Lt Cdr 'Bimbo' Churchill was appointed to the command of the BRONINGTON. He was being re-traded into general service after failing his 'Perisher' as a submariner. He had previously served in HMS/M TRIDENT. This gave the idea for for funnel badge but pointing down to symbolise spearing the mines below the water.

[INVINCIBLE]

Does anybody know when the ‘Tons’ lost their twin 20mm Oerlikons? And why? Talking to some ex ‘Tons’ the other day they did not realise that the Ton class ever had twin Oerlikons. Janes indicates that they were all fitted with twin Oerlikons when they were first built and certainly the 9th MCM Squadron in the Gulf all had them in the 60s.

[harry.gibbon]

The trident badge shown as the 3rd MCM Squadron funnel badge illustration was originally the other way up. It was first used pointing 'DOWN' by the 50th MSS (Portland AUWE Trials Squadron). It was introduced in 1960 when Lt Cdr 'Bimbo' Churchill was appointed to the command of the BRONINGTON. He was being re-traded into general service after failing his 'Perisher' as a submariner. He had previously served in HMS/M TRIDENT. This gave the idea for for funnel badge but pointing down to symbolise spearing the mines below the water.

Thanks Rik,

I like the 'reason' given for the downward pointing trident.... not a hint that the thinking might have been the chance to spear a 'teacher' or three;);):)

teacher = Naval Officer(s) conducting the COQC (Commanding Officers' Qualifying Course) or 'Perisher' course.

Little h

[dixy1949]

Does anybody know when the ‘Tons’ lost their twin 20mm Oerlikons? And why? Talking to some ex ‘Tons’ the other day they did not realise that the Ton class ever had twin Oerlikons. Janes indicates that they were all fitted with twin Oerlikons when they were first built and certainly the 9th MCM Squadron in the Gulf all had them in the 60s.

wolverton lost hers in late 68, replaced with a searchlight, if memory serves she was the last one in mcm 1 to lose it.

[INVINCIBLE]

wolverton lost hers in late 68, replaced with a searchlight, if memory serves she was the last one in mcm 1 to lose it.

Thanks Dixy - interesting. Our Oerlikon was a most useful weapon and we had good signal lamps & search lights on the bridge, which we used for recovering Dan buoys at night. The Oerlikon was certainly useful for patrol work in the Gulf stopping dhows etc.

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi All

Ref armament on Ton class sweepers. I seem to remember that during the Indonesian problems of the 60's the sweepers in Singapore were fitted with twin Lewis guns mounted in the bows. Any body able to confirm this?

Mitch Hinde

[INVINCIBLE]

Hi All

Ref armament on Ton class sweepers. I seem to remember that during the Indonesian problems of the 60's the sweepers in Singapore were fitted with twin Lewis guns mounted in the bows. Any body able to confirm this?

Mitch Hinde

Response from a shipmate:

HMS MARYTON, 1965/66

Two single 40 mm Bofors, one forward, one aft of the funnel replacing the twin 20mm.
Two twin Vickers, one on each bridge wing. .303 I think. The old style Vickers with the circular magazines on top! Air cooled, not water.
Two single Vickers, one on each quarter. (My memory is sure they were Vickers, with those characteristic round drum magazines, flat on top of the guns, two each for the twins and of course one for the single Vickers, but I'll check my Mid's journal! The word Lewis worries me.)
Two .303 Bren guns. And the problem with them was having to change the HOT barrels. But they were very accurate. A good grouping was dead easy.
Two Rocket Flare launchers, for night actions.
One 3" mortar, on the bridge roof.
Flak mats round the bridge/wheelhouse.
Everyone else had either 9mm Sterling machine guns or in my case, My Very Own 9mm Browning.

I was prisoner reception officer, as you may recall, and I used to jam the pistol against the neck of the prisoner(s) as we swung them against the engine room bulkhead, to search them, as they used to hide grenades in their crotches.
We used to mix about one in three of tracer.
When we opened fire the effect was rather splendid.

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi

Thanks for that. I seem to remember that they were Lewis guns but memory is not what it used to be after all these years.

Mitch Hinde

[Rob Hoole]

Hi All

Ref armament on Ton class sweepers. I seem to remember that during the Indonesian problems of the 60's the sweepers in Singapore were fitted with twin Lewis guns mounted in the bows. Any body able to confirm this?

Mitch Hinde

I have a picture of HICKLETON showing twin MGs mounted in her bows while on loan to the RNZN during Confrontation. I am loath to show the whole photo because someone submitted it specifically for the Ton Class Association's book 'Wooden Walls' but lack of space prevented its inclusion. The contributor described them as Vickers but I am not so sure. Perhaps someone can identify them?

[INVINCIBLE]

I have a picture of HICKLETON showing twin MGs mounted in her bows while on loan to the RNZN during Confrontation. I am loath to show the whole photo because someone submitted it specifically for the Ton Class Association's book 'Wooden Walls' but lack of space prevented its inclusion. The contributor described them as Vickers but I am not so sure. Perhaps someone can identify them?

Response from my shipmate:

Confirmed from my journal that we did indeed have Vickers, two twins and two single ones, with those distinctive flat ammunition drums on top. I think from 47 year old memory that they had 30 rounds in each!
We also had some .303 rifles. I forgot them! I've added them to the list below..
The Bren guns were on mountings, one each side of the Bridge wing. They were of course portable. And you had to remember the spare barrels. I remember that one actually burnt the wooden deck somewhat after it had been changed.

Those were the days !!

Hope that helps

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi All

They are indeed the Vickers Light Machine Gun with the round magazine as opposed to the Vickers Machine Gun that was a heavyweight belt fed job.
It was the pan magazine that was confusing me.
Thanks.

Mitch Hinde

[neil6814]

Reference 177 & 180.

I was Cox'n of the Maryton at that time and can confirm.

I had a Webley .38 double action revolver for the duration which I used to sleep with under my pillow.

Neil.

[INVINCIBLE]

Reference 177 & 180.

I was Cox'n of the Maryton at that time and can confirm.

I had a Webley .38 double action revolver for the duration which I used to sleep with under my pillow.

Neil.

Thanks for that.
Maryton saw a fair bit of action during Confrontation and several of the ship's company were decorated for their bravery - did you happen to be one of those decorated? Were you onboard at the same time as Ken Napier? He tells the story of the terrified cooks who were midships when Maryton was receiving "incoming" with bullets going straight through the wooden sides and out the other !!

[neil6814]

Terry


The medals on the Maryton were;

DSC Lt Cdr Holder
DSM L/Sea Boylan
BEM CPO keane.

I relieved Keane as Cox'n in June or July '65. We were in action almost every night we were on patrol, up until about August the following year. Just not medal winning action.

I'm sorry but I don't remember Ken Napier. That doesn't mean that he wasn't there, just I don't remember. Perhaps a nudge to the memory like rank or rate might help me.

Neil.

[INVINCIBLE]

Terry


The medals on the Maryton were;

DSC Lt Cdr Holder
DSM L/Sea Boylan
BEM CPO keane.

I relieved Keane as Cox'n in June or July '65. We were in action almost every night we were on patrol, up until about August the following year. Just not medal winning action.

I'm sorry but I don't remember Ken Napier. That doesn't mean that he wasn't there, just I don't remember. Perhaps a nudge to the memory like rank or rate might help me.

Neil.

Neil,

Thanks for that.
surely you were awarded the CSM or NGSM as it was known then for your service in Maryton? I think the whole ship's company qualified for the 'Borneo' clasp
I will ask Ken Napier for some more "evidence".

[INVINCIBLE]

Terry


The medals on the Maryton were;

DSC Lt Cdr Holder
DSM L/Sea Boylan
BEM CPO keane.

I relieved Keane as Cox'n in June or July '65. We were in action almost every night we were on patrol, up until about August the following year. Just not medal winning action.

I'm sorry but I don't remember Ken Napier. That doesn't mean that he wasn't there, just I don't remember. Perhaps a nudge to the memory like rank or rate might help me.

Neil.

Neil,

Message from my ship mate:

Sorry to keep using you as a go-between, do you have an e-mail please for "Neil"? I can only remember him vaguely as The Coxswain! I joined in August 1965, after "Neil", in Kuching Sarawak, and was on watch on my own that night, coral reefs, on the western sea border of Sarawak/Kalimantan .. which was quite interesting, but I had had lots of time in sweepers..

Another little bit of info which you may find of use.. we had Rocket Flare Launchers in MARYTON for use at night, to illuminate the target(s).
I had a spell of a few weeks in HMAS DUCHESS, who did NOT have RFLs, so one of the three turrets had to be available for use firing 4.5" Starshells, quite expensive in manpower, and of course cost too!

Obviously I do not know your e-mail but if you wished to let him know his is

napier.chazarem@wanadoo.fr

Am sure he would be very pleased to be in touch with you - best of luck.

[Davidt]

Here are a few photo's when i paid a visit to the kellington a few years back.

[Davidt]

A few more

[Davidt]

some more of the Kellington

[Davidt]

Last couple of photos

[jbryce1437]

A nice set of photographs David, and a nice size. It was a great shame that they dismantled Kellington at Stockton. Ship preservation seems to be way down the agenda now:(

Jim

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi David

Nice set of pics, brought back a few memories of Wilkieston 1960.

To repeat my question first posted in #168.
Do any of our old sweeper men have any idea if there are any recorded incidents of sweep wires snagging underwater obstacles, parting and coming back inboard with explosive cutters attatched? I was told many stories that may or may not be true by some of the old hands on the Wilkie but I've never been able to substantiate any of them.

Mitch Hinde

[Davidt]

Hi Mitch
Ive had a few wires part and come inboard but none with explosive cutters fitted. Its bad enough when they do come back never mind with cutters fitted, Ive never heard of it.

[Mitch Hinde]

Hi Davidt

I can imagine the panic when a sweep wire comes back inboard. There isn't a lot of space on the sweep deck when everything is over the side.

Mitch Hinde

[BelliniTosi]

To repeat my question first posted in #168.
Do any of our old sweeper men have any idea if there are any recorded incidents of sweep wires snagging underwater obstacles, parting and coming back inboard with explosive cutters attatched? I was told many stories that may or may not be true by some of the old hands on the Wilkie but I've never been able to substantiate any of them.

Mitch Hinde

Mitch
When I was the winch driver on the Burnie, I was told that if the sweep wires parted they wouldn't come back inboard because of the way the strands were laid and the fibre core.
The kite wire was different, that was normal steel wire rope and if the kite got its knickers in a twist it would be "clear the sweep deck, standfast the winch driver" leaving me and the Jimmy to haul the kite back in.
John

[BlackBat242]

The Australian Tons:
http://users.qld.chariot.net.au/~dialabull/fate.html

Alcaston, launched 5 January 1953; sold to Australia in 1961 and renamed Snipe; modified as minehunter from April 1969 to December 1970; decommissioned on 3 June 1983; broken up in 1985.

Chediston, launched 20 February 1953; sold to Australia in 1961 and renamed Curlew; modified as minehunter from December 1966 to December 1968; paid off on 30 April 1990; sold on 17 June 1991; operating out of Port Huon, Tasmania as a fishing vessel mid-2003; still extant July 2011.
http://users.qld.chariot.net.au/~dialabull/beyond.html

Jackton, launched 28 February 1955; sold to Australia 1961 and renamed Teal; paid off on 14 August 1970; sold in October 1977; converted to prawn & scallop trawler 1980; converted to passenger charter boat 1986; converted to dive boat 1987; 1990 to 2012 research and practice ship at Near East University (NEU), Northern Cyprus (as Ana Sayfa).
http://users.qld.chariot.net.au/~dialabull/draw.html

Singleton, launched 18 November 1955; sold to Australia in 1961 and renamed Ibis; decommissioned on 4 May 1984; sold in 1985 to be broken up.

Somerleyton (ex-Gamston), launched 1 July 1954; sold to Australia in 1961 and renamed Hawk; paid off on 7 January 1972; sold 1976 and broken up.

Swanston, launched 10 September 1954; sold to Australia in 1961 and renamed Gull; paid off on 7 November 1969; sold on 20 January 1976 (comprehensively stripped to provide spare parts for Curlew, Ibis and Snipe).