HMS Maidstone: Submarine Depot Ship

[porelhall]

She was an ex Liner converted as a submarine depot ship based at Faslane on the Clyde. I don't know whether she is still there or not.

[Batstiger]

Are you starting a thread here or just stating a fact?

[Alan B]

I believe the Forth and Maidstone were purpose built Submarine Depot Ships.
Forth, 2nd Sub Sqad. 1939-41, 3rd Sub sqad. 1941-45.
Maidstone, The Med, South Atlantic and Rosyth 1939-40 then the Med, Eastern Fleet and Pacific 1941-45.
The Ausonias were ex Cunard Liners taken over and converted to various duties.
Alan

[porelhall]

I didn't know which thread to put the picture in so I posted a new thread. Maybe some of you guys have more photos of Depot ships , submarine or otherwise.
I don't know if she is still operational at Faslane on the Clyde.....cheers:)

[porelhall]

Hi chaps managed to find a site with history and info on HMS Maidstone....here it is..:)

http://www.naval-history.net/xGM-Chrono-28Depot-Maidstone.htm

[Batstiger]

Just a few pictures of the Maidstone including the WW1 vessel, slightly smaller.

[rumrat]

As a point of interest MAIDSTONE's last role in RN service was as accomodation ship for the army at Belfast from 71- 77 (i think not to sure of the exact dates) along with the HARTLAND POINT who was used as a prison ship whist the H Blocks were built at the Maze prison,She also acted as supply and maintenance ship for all the Ton Class sweepers which were used as patrol vessls along the Irish coast.Any pictures of her and HARTLAND POINT from around this time would be much appreciated.
Regards
Dave

[Putty]

I have just received a picture entitled Hartland Point, is this correct/what you were looking for?

Putty

[Batstiger]

Nice picture Putty.

Bob.

[navalis]

Just to confirm that MAIDSTONE was purpose built, not a converted liner.

She served at Faslane as parent to the 3rd SM squadron from May 1962 until January 1968. She was then employed as an accomodation ship / prison ship at Belfast from 1969 until January 1977. She was sold to Messrs Ward for scrap 4 May 1978 and broken up at Inverkeithing from June 1978.

[Jan Steer]

I remember Maidstone very well. We were alongside her from time to time in Belfast when my 'sweeper was on NI patrol. I've dug out a picture of her for you and one of the Hartland Point. I've added in the Forth too just for good measure
enjoy
Jan

[BECA@CLEAR.NET.NZ]

Just a few pictures of the Maidstone including the WW1 vessel, slightly smaller.

Here is 'Mum' at sea. I served aboard Maidstone at Faslane and she was a happy ship.

[Wombat]

Here are two more of HMS Maidstone.

Wasn't there another ship operating with the Maidstone called "HMS Caroline"?
before H Block was completed.

Wombat,
(James).

[rumrat]

Wombat,
CAROLINE is the WW1 C Class cruiser that serves as the RNR depot ship for the Belfast area.
HARTLAND POINT was the prison ship berthed ahead of MAIDSTONE at Belfast in the early 70s.

Regards
Dave

[fifties]

Hi,
I am not an ex navy man but served in Army from 1964 to 1973 (I served as a Military Policeman)
I read on one of your links some one was requesting inf on the the above two ships.
Posted to Northern Ireland in 1972 I served on Hartlandpoint which at the time was used as a barracks the RMP company was 179 Provost Company.
They were both moored in Belfast Lough just down from Harland Wolfe,Hartland point was moored to the stern of Maidstone the latter being the prison ship,it also had the NAAFI and cookhouse.We had a weldeded walk way joining both ships,there was a few Navy men on board,but never met any.
I served 4 months on her and wonder what happened to them when we left.
Thekit storage was aproblem because unlike most troops in Ireland we had to wear 2dress not combat,we were armed and spent our time patrolling with RUC.If Ican recolect any other info I will submit it.:confused:

[herakles]

Welcome to the forum red hat! ;) It's good having people who like me are not ex navy types.

I look forward to your posts.

[SCRG1970]

Herk

Have to echo your welcome.

Its not wether you served in the RN thats important ,its if you share the interests and aims that unite seafarers. The diversity of input to this forum is its strength.

Regards

gerry

[BECA@CLEAR.NET.NZ]

Hi,
I am not an ex navy man but served in Army from 1964 to 1973 (I served as a Military Policeman)
I read on one of your links some one was requesting inf on the the above two ships.
Posted to Northern Ireland in 1972 I served on Hartlandpoint which at the time was used as a barracks the RMP company was 179 Provost Company.
They were both moored in Belfast Lough just down from Harland Wolfe,Hartland point was moored to the stern of Maidstone the latter being the prison ship,it also had the NAAFI and cookhouse.We had a weldeded walk way joining both ships,there was a few Navy men on board,but never met any.
I served 4 months on her and wonder what happened to them when we left.
Thekit storage was aproblem because unlike most troops in Ireland we had to wear 2dress not combat,we were armed and spent our time patrolling with RUC.If Ican recolect any other info I will submit it.:confused:

A interesting piece of info. Both Maidstone and Hartland Point are old ships of mine and both I remember as happy ships, the 'Point' in particular. Always interested in info on these two so thank you for putting this thread up.

[BECA@CLEAR.NET.NZ]

Here are two more of HMS Maidstone.

Wasn't there another ship operating with the Maidstone called "HMS Caroline"?
before H Block was completed.

Wombat,
(James).

Another picture of Maidstone

[jacky]

HMS Maidstone was indeed a prison ship in Belfast. As an OEM i had to go into the cage at the aft of the ship to repair lots of electrical equipment. When the Swiss Red Cross said that the accomadation was not fit for people to live in they moved the internees off to the Maze Prison,disinfected,painted and moved the ships company into the after end. The prison officers onboard at that time refused to go into the cage with the internees but we as ships company had no choice in the matter. The internees where always glad to to a greenie as they had their own ovens, tv,s radios and irons which had to be repaired constantly.I think the other ship forward of the maidstone was the Rame Head and she was used as an accomadation ship for the army. The Hartland Point was tied up at the Naval Base in Londonderry and used as an accomadation ship for the army.

[Wombat]

Is it right that in the early 70’s sailors were used for foot patrol through the streets of Belfast?
Wombat,
(James).

[alanbenn]

James, during the 70's many a sailor was used in conjunction with the Army in various roles, especially communications and lets not forget with ships being used as prisons the SBS were also evident but not as much in the news as the SAS.

Regards
Alan

[Wombat]

Thanks Alan,

I once worked with a chap who was on HMS Maidstone. He never said a great deal about his time in Ireland, but I seem to recall him saying he had been on foot patrol. Thanks for clearing that one up.

Wombat,
(James).

[jacky]

reference naval personnel on foot patrol in Belfast during the troubles. The only time I recall Navy personnel on foot patrol was when the Royal marines where stationed onboard and the medics where Sick Berth attendants who went on patrol with them. We had ships drivers who where allowed to grow their hair a little bit longer than normal but we did not carry weapons, accept a pick axe handle.

[Wombat]

reference naval personnel on foot patrol in Belfast during the troubles. The only time I recall Navy personnel on foot patrol was when the Royal marines where stationed onboard and the medics where Sick Berth attendants who went on patrol with them. We had ships drivers who where allowed to grow their hair a little bit longer than normal but we did not carry weapons, accept a pick axe handle.

Very interesting comments, you were obviously in Ireland at the time.
I can understand Medic's going out with the Marines, and as you say, they would not be armed.
I am a bit puzzled about your reference to "ships drivers", is that meant to be "Drivers" or "Divers"? If it is driver, can you elaborate further.

Wombat,
(James).

[fifties]

I served in Northen Ireland and we were billeted on Hartland point which was linked to Maidstone, our messing was on Maidstone also the barbers and the NAAFI,two cans aday duty permitting,my unit was 179 Provost Company,Royal Military Police. Our duties were to patrol wih the RUC,we were armed with either 9mm pistol,10 rounds,or sterling (SMG) 28 rounds,unlike the infantry we patrolled in pairs and had to wear No 2 dress no combats. I have great memories of these times in 1971. Yes we did wear our red peaked best dress caps,our duty room was on Hartlandpoint,I was based out of Glenravel Street, and York Road Police stations.

[Krieg1981]

Are there any pics floating about of Maidstone as an accommodation ship/prison ship, or the scrapping? Here is a couple of Maidstone pics.....

[jacky]

Very interesting comments, you were obviously in Ireland at the time.
I can understand Medic's going out with the Marines, and as you say, they would not be armed.
I am a bit puzzled about your reference to "ships drivers", is that meant to be "Drivers" or "Divers"? If it is driver, can you elaborate further.

Wombat,
(James).

yes i was in ni at the time. still am. we had ships drivers onboard of which i was one. we delivered mail and supplies to some of the patrol vessels in carlingford lough,carried people to hospitals,took officers to meetings with their army counterparts and generally just carried out typical navy driving duties. a bit hairy at times but lots of time off. jacky

[Albert RN]

I was drafted to the Maidstone for the last 6 months of my service. I joined her at Portsmouth, late Sept '69 and was on board as she was towed to Belfast. I was an OEM1 at the time. As far as i can remember, one of the first army regiments to board was 1st Royal Horse Artillary. Whilst aboard. I began organising the library. Unfortunately, my memory of other crew members is a bit vague. By the time my demob came round, in May '70 I was engaged to Belfast girl and we are still together

[Wombat]

I was drafted to the Maidstone for the last 6 months of my service. I joined her at Portsmouth, late Sept '69 and was on board as she was towed to Belfast. I was an OEM1 at the time. As far as i can remember, one of the first army regiments to board was 1st Royal Horse Artillary. Whilst aboard. I began organising the library. Unfortunately, my memory of other crew members is a bit vague. By the time my demob came round, in May '70 I was engaged to Belfast girl and we are still together

Nice to hear a happy ending.

Wombat,
(James).

[jacky]

yes the RHA where still onboard when i first joined. WE HAD Paras onboard later and i remember them doing a jump off the middle deck into the Lagan.

[Taffsparks]

This thread has caused confusion in my solitary brain cell. Whilst serving in HMS London in 1967, after we had covered the withdrawal of troops from Aden, we went to Mombasa for R&R, over Xmas/New Year, I was convinced that we berthed up alongside Maidstone, which in turn was berthed alongside a Malarial swamp; we had been taking anti-malaria pills for weeks prior to our arrival. The berth itself was opposite the 'K' Boat Jetty. But the date doesn't seem to tie in with other dates mentioned on the thread. Was it the Maidstone, or another Depot Ship... anyone know?
Regards Andy.

[Dave Hutson]

Hi Taffsparks,
Having a bit of trouble working out this Mombasa berth. By 1965 the Old East African Navy had been disbanded and the Kenya Navy was formed. The Headquarters for which was directly opposite K Boat Jetty with a small pier which could take Patrol Craft. It wasn't a deep water berth and there wasn't a mangrove swamp on that side. If Maidstone was alongside I would hazard a guess that she was on Kilindini [same side as K Boat Jetty]. I was seconded to the Kenya Navy from 1969 to 1972 and there had been two two-year RN teams there from 1965 onwards. It would be interesting to hear from anyone who was on Maidstone at that time who can clearly remember the location.

Dave H

[ceylon220]

Another picture of Maidstone

Do you know the name of the sub that`s alongside?

[ceylon220]

Just a few pictures of the Maidstone including the WW1 vessel, slightly smaller.

I see you have a picture of the MAIDSTONE (6) with 4 subs alongside,any idea when this was taken and can you name the boats?

[ceylon220]

It seems unusual to hear that RN ratings were doing patrols with the Irish police force, this made them a sure target for the IRA,yet going back to the middle 50s,the only targets then was the sandbaged police stations and the fuel depots plus electricity generators, no body bothered any of our lads then,and the only warning that I ever received from the police was to watch myself as I was dating a Londonderry girl who had 4 brothers who were IRA sympathiers,even tho I had met them and got along ok with them I did`nt know about their connections with the IRA. When ever any trouble arose our ship left Londonderry and berthed at Lisahally until the troubles were over.

[Scratcher]

Here you are Krieg 1981 its the only example I have of Maidstone as a Prison Ship,although living onboard her while we were running from Faslane was to say the least rough.

Peter.

[rumrat]

Scratcher,
Do you have a larger copy of the picture of MAIDSTONE you could post please ?
Regards
Dave

[Scratcher]

Rumrat,sorry that is the only one I have of her as a "PRISON ship".

[rumrat]

Cheers nate no worrys any idea where this picture was taken doesn't look like Belfast to me with all those pipes lying around.
Regards
Dave

[Scratcher]

I think it's her refuelling,where who knows.Also as a Prison Ship,I would assume that Photography was prohibited.Anybody who was onboard her around that time might be able to help here.

[rumrat]

I must admit to being stumped with this one i had always believed the MAIDSTONE was the accomodation ship for the Army and supply ship for the sweepers on patrol and that HARLAND POINT POINT was the prison ship certainly when i was there in 72 that was the case.Ive never seen a picture like the one you posted with screened off quarter deck before.But it doesn't look like Belfast and i might be wrong in saying that when she arrived in Belfast she arrived under tow not under her own power so why should she be re-fueling ?
I had a good look around her in 72 and she was in a bad state of repair her bridge and top decks were green with mould and neglect and a lot of her fixtures and fittings had been removed and was generally unseaworthy.
Regards
Dave

[Scratcher]

Rumrat,Thought this might interest you.

[Wombat]

Rumrat,Thought this might interest you.

Scratcher,

Great plaque for the Maidstone, have you listed it in the Ships badges and crests thread? I am sure there would be a few members there who would be interested to see it.

Wombat,
(James).

[carlisle401]

I was onboard the HMS Maidstone in Belfast in May, June and July 1972 serving with my unit 1 Royal Scots. To be honest we were glad to go out on patrol because we were overcrowded!

She was docked at Harland & Wolff's shipyard close to the Paintshop.

[dennis a feary]

Ceylon DAVE, the TWO boats alongside MAIDSTONE are - closest to an `O' boat, and nearest to M an `A' class boat (as in Alliance) before convertion.

Only a guess mind you !!

Sadsac

[zyckel]

The picture of Maidstone as a 'prison ship' was taken in Belfast. She was berthed alongside the jetty beside the BP oil refinery so that accounts for the pipework. Maidstone was used for the internees and Naval crew, Hartland Point was used as an accomodation ship for the army and she was berthed forward of the Maidstone. Does anyone remember the Citroen 2CV or Diane that was on the upper deck when we towed her over?

The only RN personnel who went ashore with the army were medics attached to the Bootnecks.

Drivers did have longer hair which really annoyed Sub Lt Lawrence - I see he's now an admiral of some sort. (I think maybe Anne and mummy had something to do with that.) We had a white Land Rover (Grover) and an Austin Maxi for the Skipper which changed colour almost weekly. There was also a blue Bedford Utility (Tilly) but I think they were standard issue everywhere.

I have an aerial shot of Maidstone which I will look out and post later.

[Bee]

Hello Zyckel,

I'm sure the guys here would love to see the aerial pic. of HMS Maidstone when you post it. You obviously know a bit about her...hope you keep posting, the more, the better :)
If you have any specific naval questions you'd like answered it might be worth your while to put a post in the New Members section...as I think that would be viewed by more.
I also noticed that this was your first foray into "The Forum" - so welcome aboard.
Regards,
Bee

[tonclass]

Would love to see your aerial photo Zyckel.

[keithfranks]

My dad served on this ship 1957 he died monday 27th july after 3years of cancer aged 77 he joined the navy at 16 and stayed for 9 years the having two young sons left the navy i belive he ldft 1958 after i myself was born his name was derrick franks he also met my mam in Scotland while serving in the navy maybe are dads new each other my email is keithfranks40@hotmail.com feel free to contact me

[Dr.Bishop]

Any members on this board served on HMS Maidstone in 1957?

My father Bert (Herbert) Bishop was an EA Petty Officer on-board, and in '57, I was christened on board said ship.

Trying to track down various ship's company, e.g. The Padre, a Lt. Cdr who I was alleged to be named after, his Christian name was David.

Or any guidance as to where I could get the details from (HMS SULTAN?).

Cheers in advance.

[jbryce1437]

Hello David, and welcome to the Forum. I hope there is someone around who remembers your father from that time. Following a christening onboard, it was often the case that the name of the child was engraved inside the ships bell. Not sure what happened to the ships bell from the Maidstone, possibly presented to the town of that name - worth enquiring there.

Jim

[Dr.Bishop]

Hi Jim, thanks for your reply. And as you would probably realise, yes my name is inside the ship's bell. Said bell resides at Maidstone. A couple of years ago I arranged a visit to Maidstone to see my name, the person at the council did not realise names are engraved inside the bell.

Still waiting for them replies!

By the way, I have a confession - I am ex Royal Air Force.

[jbryce1437]

Hi Jim, thanks for your reply. And as you would probably realise, yes my name is inside the ship's bell. Said bell resides at Maidstone. A couple of years ago I arranged a visit to Maidstone to see my name, the person at the council did not realise names are engraved inside the bell.

Still waiting for them replies!

By the way, I have a confession - I am ex Royal Air Force.

Thanks for the reply David. Shame about the RAF - my son was in the Air Cadets but I eventually managed to talk some sense into him and he followed me into the RN :p
Pleased you tracked down the ships bell. I was also an electrician in the RN and thought you might try to track down some of your dad's electrical department shipmates. The Royal Naval Electrical Association may be able to help you to get in contact with someone who served on Maidstone in that era. You can contact them here:
http://www.rneba.org.uk/

[Dr.Bishop]

Funny thing though, I was talked out of joining the Senior Service... Spent 5 years as a naval cadet - HMS Dolphin.

Left the RAF (Air Traffic Control) as the RN equiv of CPO. Enjoyed my first posting (draft) to RAF Lossiemouth, which was still under control of the Fleet Air Arm. Kinda hacked them off as a 17 year old, they couldn't understand why I called them WAFU's....

Thanks for the link to the EA site, might prove useful.

[jbryce1437]

Pleased to help, don't forget to fill in your profile.

Jim

[Dr.Bishop]

Just had contact from the son who's father was onboard Maidstone during 1957/58.

So moving in the right direction. Would love to hear from more, if you are around - PLEASE.

Still searching for the Padre who baptised me and a Lt. Cdr who allegedly I am named after....

[Dr.Bishop]

So no ship's crew from Maidstone here?

[barracuda]

Hi Dr. Bishop,

I hope you eventually find the people and information you are looking for. My elder brother served on the Maidstone sometime between 1954 and 1957 but haven't found out exactly when yet. I know he joined HMS Chichester in 1958. Unfortunately he died at a young age and I'm trying to put his naval career together. I was much younger than he. The only thing I remember my brother saying about his time on the Maidstone was that it featured in a film about submarines, but I haven't found out anyhing about that yet. Below is a link to a story on the Navy Net website written by a Midshipman about life on the Maidstone in 1956, which I found amusing and interesting and I hope you do too.

http://www.navy-net.co.uk/wiki2/index.php/HMS_MAIDSTONE_1956

Regards.

Peter Thomas

[merryblessed]

Are you starting a thread here or just stating a fact?

For Family researchers.. these photos are of my dad & crew, who served on the Maidstone from 5.3.41 – 26.6.43 in Gibraltar & Algiers during operation torch. Dad as a stoker at that time, but later became an ERA as the war progressed.
I have always wondered who the men were with dad & maybe some lucky researcher may come across these images & find a family member.

[Dr.Bishop]

Any chance that (excuse RAF terminology) any Officers, SNCOs or seamen from HMS Maidstone circa 1957 on this site?

[branch1488]

Is it right that in the early 70’s sailors were used for foot patrol through the streets of Belfast?
Wombat,
(James).

James I served on Maidstone from January 1975 to January 1976 I am positive that no foot patrols were undertaken by Naval personel in Belfast during that period. The only patrols carried out were jetty patrols when Maidstone was reberthed for 48 hours for maintenance to her berth.Weapon with live rounds was the standard 7.62 SLR

[branch1488]

I must admit to being stumped with this one i had always believed the MAIDSTONE was the accomodation ship for the Army and supply ship for the sweepers on patrol and that HARLAND POINT POINT was the prison ship certainly when i was there in 72 that was the case.Ive never seen a picture like the one you posted with screened off quarter deck before.But it doesn't look like Belfast and i might be wrong in saying that when she arrived in Belfast she arrived under tow not under her own power so why should she be re-fueling ?
I had a good look around her in 72 and she was in a bad state of repair her bridge and top decks were green with mould and neglect and a lot of her fixtures and fittings had been removed and was generally unseaworthy.
Regards
Dave

The Maidstone arrived in Belfast as accomodation for IRA internees hence quarter deck screen (exercise area) seven escaped across the harbour change of use to army accomodation for spearhead battalion. The picture is indeed Belfast the pipes are the pipes leading from the jetty up over the mid section deck and down to a pontoon on the port side,they carried tar from the depot opposite. Dutch tankers came alongside regularly (the smell was less than good) hope this clears some confusiuon. P.S. the crane in the backgound I used many times to load engines into the R.M. raiding craf.t

[rab.m.]

Maidstone was my first ship on leaving Ganges in '64 at Faslane.Re Maidstone at Mombassa definately not her.I was there on Triumph '66 or '67 which was a heavy repair ship.I think Forth might also have been there in '67 and she was quite similiar looking to Maidstone.
regards rab.m.

[bms44]

Hello all, from a newbie (to you, and your forum but an oldie to the missus!) A friend, retired Marine, met his future wife whilst stationed on the Maidstone, at the time she was moored in Belfast in a rather ignominious role. He has seen some photographs, but was looking for a photo (apart from the one already published) showing her at her berth then. Due to the nature of her role, would such a photograph not have been permissible or possible? Perhaps you can help. Over to you then, thank you in anticipation.

[steve roberts]

Hi bms44.First of all welcome to the forum.I take it you are talking about HMS MAIDSTONE when she was used as a prison ship in Belfast? If so I do recall a photo of her,that looked as if it had been taken from a helicopter.It was published in a daily newspaper.Don't take this as fact,but I believe it was the SUN.So a copy must exist some where.
Regards Steve.

[bms44]

Yes Steve, thank you for the welcome : I look forward to dipping in from time to time. I've got a lot of catching up to do, and there's so very much of interest here. My apologies, HMS Maidstone is the vessel in question. I don't believe there will be a better forum than this to get the info and photo we seek, and this first friendly signal is encouraging. Thank you again, and your kind regards are likewise reciprocated. Brian

[janderson509]

My late father was Samuel Richard Anderson (Dick) and he served on HMS Maidstone during WW2. For a variety of reasons I dont know anymore than that. I would like to know more about his experiences. Suggestions re sites would be welcome. John

[astraltrader]

A picture of Maidstone with some of her brood of submarines known as the 8th Submarine Flotilla, taken during WW2. One of these submarines was the renowned Seraph.

[Mike B]

I joined HMS Maidstone in July 1954; she was my first ship after training at HMS Ganges. On the morning of 16 Jun 55 I witnessed the sinking of HMS/M Sidon alongside the Maidstone. 13 men lost their lives, one of them being Lt Rhodes, the duty medical officer on HMS Maidstone. He was due to leave the RN in a few weeks and the day before had bandaged my ankle after I had sprained it in a cross-country run.
Once raised HMS Sidon was moved out into Portland Bay, near Chesil beach, where the bodies were removed. As a sparker I did a couple of watches on the MFV which was moored alongside the Sidon - Not a pleasant duty.

Mike B

[fritz the diver]

i was 1 of the ships divers in belfast,we did carry weapons when we went ashore on duty.1 GUN between 6 of us normally kept in the toolbox beside the DRIVER. one of my favorite memorys is going over the bow climbing through a porthole,and liberating a case of GLENFIDDICK FROM a regiment that had just arrived on board.

[whalerman]

Came across Maidstone twice in two careers. First was berthing along side on Bronington when on N.I.(Grenada) patrol. The next was when on detatched to the Maze Prison from the Scottish Prison Service. We had to collect two internees from Maidstone and escort them to the Maze under fully armed military escort including a PIG. Scary times.

[fritz the diver]

Wombat,
CAROLINE is the WW1 C Class cruiser that serves as the RNR depot ship for the Belfast area.
HARTLAND POINT was the prison ship berthed ahead of MAIDSTONE at Belfast in the early 70s.

Regards
Dave
maidstone was the prison ship hartland point was full of pongoes and RED CAPS

[Mike B]

Hi Dr. Bishop,

I hope you eventually find the people and information you are looking for. My elder brother served on the Maidstone sometime between 1954 and 1957 but haven't found out exactly when yet. I know he joined HMS Chichester in 1958. Unfortunately he died at a young age and I'm trying to put his naval career together. I was much younger than he. The only thing I remember my brother saying about his time on the Maidstone was that it featured in a film about submarines, but I haven't found out anyhing about that yet. Below is a link to a story on the Navy Net website written by a Midshipman about life on the Maidstone in 1956, which I found amusing and interesting and I hope you do too.

http://www.navy-net.co.uk/wiki2/index.php/HMS_MAIDSTONE_1956

Regards.

Peter Thomas

Hi Peter,
I was on the Maidstone 1954-1956 and recall the film about sinking the Tirpitz being made, I think John Mills and James Robertson-Justice were in it. There were two other films made using Maidstone - 'Above us the waves' and 'The Man that Never Was'. I actually manned the MFV used as a radio link for sending diving and surfacing signals for the submarine used in the film.
Best wishes
Mike

[barracuda]

Thanks, Mike. It was "Above us the Waves." It came to me as I read what you had written. Thanks again.

Regards,

Peter

[buster185]

Hi folks, has anybody got any pictures of Gaerloch mid sixties, Maidstone, Narvik, AFD 59, the shore ComCen (railway carriages), the Bungalow (NAAFI), the pier, the Breakers Yard etc etc. memories fading fast....need a refresh!! Thanks in advance.
Buster

[alanandbren]

Hi folks, has anybody got any pictures of Gaerloch mid sixties, Maidstone, Narvik, AFD 59, the shore ComCen (railway carriages), the Bungalow (NAAFI), the pier, the Breakers Yard etc etc. memories fading fast....need a refresh!! Thanks in advance.
Buster

Hi Buster, are any of these any good,the ones of Maidstone and Exmouth were taken when I was up there in 1963, the others are various and may have appeared on the Forum over the years.

Alan

[buster185]

Hi Alan, thanks for the great pictures, it brings it all back. I was there winter of 65 to mid 66 and it doesn't appear to have changed much from your pictures. The picture with the Exmouth really captures what I remember, the hills, the ensigns flying out and some great sky moving across the loch. The Maidstone looks really good in that shot with the submarines outboard, I can recall the the sights and sounds (and smells!) of them all moving about together in a stiff breeze and choppy water. Gaerloch got a bit wet and cold at times but some great memories. Thanks again.
Buster

[RichyB]

Hi Buster,
I was on the Maidstone, Feb 66 to Feb 67, half of that time in the Juniors Mess, Remember Bill Hayley and "Digger" Gardiner as Leading Hands in charge of the Juniors Mess. One well known character onboard at that time was Leading Patrolman Toghill, and the hillarity when one day on Daily Orders, Helensburgh Mobile Patrol was listed as Toggle + 2.
I also remember the ill fated USS Scorpion visiting and tying up just forward of the Maidstone. As Juniors, about 20 of us had an invite onboard, we only got as far as the wardroom, were the XO gave us a talk and we were treated to Milk and biscuits. About 2 or 3 years later Scorpion was lost at sea with all hands. I have some photo's somewhere of the Scorpion, Maidstone with Dreadnought and other boats alongside, and Minstral the torpedo recovery boat. As soon as I find them, I'll scan them in and Post them on this site.

[buster185]

Hi Richy, thanks for your response. I do remember the Juniors Mess, the names of the Leading Hands ring a bell but I can't put a face to them. I remember clearly the Toggle + 2 incident, it made me chuckle when I read your post! I don't remember the USS Scorpion visit so maybe after my time (or the grey cells letting go!). I do remember being in the Juniors Mess and that we were all putting into the mess funds every payday to cover the TV rental and someone took off with the money, but detail a bit faded now. I did move messes during my time onboard but recall one mess getting flooded about a foot deep with FFO and we had to move out and onto the Narvik and get new kit issued. Not sure if that was the Juniors Mess or later. I do remember in my first few weeks onboard letting go the end of one of the halyards on the main mast and having to traipse around all the various departments to get the transmitter keys (radio and radar) before I could go aloft and retrieve it. I don't know which was more scary, the climb up that very cold and slippery mast and out along the yardarm, or the very colourful rollocking I got from the OOD for letting it go and disrupting the ship's operation. Luckily we were alongside so could have been worse! I never let go of a halyard end again so I guess a case of learning the hard way! Would appreciate any photos you have, I have a few from my later service but nothing from Gaerloch, the one's posted by Alan above were much appreciated.
Buster

[RichyB]

Hi Buster,
Maybe get a chance at the weekend to search out and scan photo's, your reply certainly trigger'd afew memories. Bill Hayley, was a Killick Stoker, and ran the ships laundry, Digger Gardiner was a Killick Seaman, and was an Australian who had transferred to the RN if I remember correctly. When I first joined it was about the time Commander Fickling had gone missing, and I believe his body was recovered from the Gareloch weeks later.

Some of the names I remember from the Juniors Mess, "Smiler" Miles a JMEM, Bob Geddes, and Tony Oates JREM 's, Dolly Gray a Junior Chef, another JMEM called Forward. We used to have to go ashore in Nos 1's in those days, so for Half a Crown a week , we rented a locker in the Church of Scotland in Helensburgh to keep our civvies, and this was always the first stop on a run ashore, so we could change. In remember Miss Crystal and the SM/3 Club and the bus loads of Dumbarton Debs on pay days.
My first sea trip on the Maidstone was to Rotterdam, then a trip to Brodick on Arran, which I did'nt go on as volunteers were required to act as a berthing party for Maidstone when she returned, so myself and some other Juniors were loan drafted on to HMS Minstral, the torpedo recovery boat, and we had a pleasant week cruising the clyde, calling in at Ardrishaig, Lochranza and Cambelltown.
Back in the mid 70's I was sent onboard Maidstone whilst she was alongside in Belfast, and what a sorry state she was in then.

[RichyB]

Hi Buster,
I had a quick look in my loft, and I have come across these photo's on my first sweep, all taken on the Maidstone or in theclyde in 65 or 66. All the lads in the photo's were in the Juniors Mess at the same time as me, I wonder if you reconise any faces and could put a name to them.

[elysium]

joined Maidstone Jan. 63 two ratings broke into the rum store about that time the place was awash with rum, our large mess kettle was full and escaped detection during the search that followed.Was transfered to AFD58 and watched through bins as the POs canteen burn down even though the Maidstone fire engine responded ( a hand pulled cart) which returned loaded with "salvaged" bottles of spirits hidden behind the hoses.Also remember on the dock a middle watchman washing his overalls and hoisting them up the flag staff to dry, the office of the watch on Maidstone rang us in the morning just before colours to ask what flag was flying .

[alanandbren]

joined Maidstone Jan. 63 two ratings broke into the rum store about that time the place was awash with rum, our large mess kettle was full and escaped detection during the search that followed.Was transfered to AFD58 and watched through bins as the POs canteen burn down even though the Maidstone fire engine responded ( a hand pulled cart) which returned loaded with "salvaged" bottles of spirits hidden behind the hoses.Also remember on the dock a middle watchman washing his overalls and hoisting them up the flag staff to dry, the office of the watch on Maidstone rang us in the morning just before colours to ask what flag was flying .

I was at Faslane when the POs canteen went on fire, it was called the Vista club, a few of us made a bit of money after hours salvaging all the lead pipework and taking it to Harry Irvine's scrapyard at Gareloch head.

Alan

[elysium]

I was at Faslane when the POs canteen went on fire, it was called the Vista club, a few of us made a bit of money after hours salvaging all the lead pipework and taking it to Harry Irvine's scrapyard at Gareloch head.

Alan
Too young to draw my tot, but those that did got neatters and saved the extra, what was that called? when they filled a bottle they got the small boat we had and rowed to Gareloch head hotel and swapped it for a case of pint screwtops, happy days.

[buster185]

Hi Richy, thanks for the pictures. The lad posing his tats looks very familiar but I can't put a name to him, none of the others ring a bell. Like you, I stayed behind as shore party during one of her trips, can't remember where she went. We had to standby a contingency communications centre ashore in case she had problems at sea. It was all a bit makeshift in railway carriages on the jetty as best I remember but a bit of a loaf for a few days. Sounds like Elysium and Alan had some exciting times, can't say much happened during my time aboard. I recall when I first joined Maidstone someone made a point of showing me a sink in one of the spaces and told me to 'never ever' put any liquid down it as it was used to ditch any leftovers after the tot time distribution of grog. I assume the pipework went to some suitable collection receptacle and not over the side! Anyhow thanks again for the photos and I look forward to any more you can dig out.
Buster

[RichyB]

Hi Buster
I do have some more photo's, Iv'e just stowed them in a safe place. As soon as they re-surface, i'll post them.

RichyB

[buster185]

Thanks Richy, I look forward to seeing them.
Regards
Buster

[RichyB]

Hi Buster
Found a few more, still not the photo's I was looking for, still hopefully they are of some interest. 1. shows HMS Minstral used as torpedo recovery boat. I was loan drafted on to this from Maidston. 2. a general shot of boats forward and alongside Maidstone, 3 & 4Exped to Seal Island near Dunoon.
5 & 6 Shots of HMS Centaur taken from Maidstone at the Royal Fleet Reveiw on the Clyde, 1965, I think.

RichyB

[buster185]

Thanks Richy, certainly brings back more recollections. I didn't do an exped but we sometimes used to take a ramble/scramble up the Cobbler with the PTI on a Wednesday afternoon make and mend. I also recall getting out and about to test the portable radios back to the ship (portable not really an apt description by todays standards!!) It was all good stuff in that very picturesque location.
Regards
Buster

[RickC]

Here are two more of HMS Maidstone.

Wasn't there another ship operating with the Maidstone called "HMS Caroline"?
before H Block was completed.

Wombat,
(James).
HMS Caroline is still in Belfast, in what is called The Titanic Quarter. She was used as a training vessel for scouts etc. She is presently being 'tidied up' for when the Titanic Exhibition opens in 2012.


RickC

[plodus]

In July 72 when Operation Motorman, the re-occupation of Belfast "NO GO" areas was launched, 42 Cdo RM were deployed to take part and we found ourselves on the Maidstone for a week or so prior to moving into Flax Street Mill,Maidstone had been decreed not fit for Internees but ok for Royal! I remember the steel bars welded over the scuttles.The first night I was pinged for guard duty and my post was at the top of the forward mast where a makeshift sandbagged OP had been rigged.The 4 hrs. I spent on my todd up there on my first night in a hostile enviroment really concentrated the mind of a 18 year old baby Bootneck straight out of the box.There was a company of cavalry"the Blues and Royals" on board as well and I am sure that is where the famous(in the Marines anyway) pipe of "Corporal of the Horse Douglas-gangway at the gallop!!" was made.

[buster185]

Hi Plodus, thanks for that picture of Maidstone in her latter role, a bit of an ignominious end given her role as 'mother ship' to many submarines and their crews over the decades. At least we share one place in our history, her foremast!! My experiences no quite as tense as yours though. Mine were usually on a decent day with a paintbrush in hand and the lovely Argyll countryside and the comings and goings of the Gaerloch to keep me occupied whilst slapping on the coats. Happy Days!
Regards
Buster

[Bowcap]

HMS Forth was in mombasa at that time Christmas 1967 on her way to Singapore.

[buster185]

Thanks Bowcap, am presuming your post is in response to post#32 Taffsparks and post#33 Dave Hutson??
Regards
Buster

[fulcrum]

Was a killick stoker on Maidstone Aug ‘63 to Jan ’64 at Faslane, waiting to start Mechs course at HMS Sultan. Remember the HTP (High Test Peroxide) jetty, built to refuel the Excaliber & Explorer. Had a great job, special duties HP Air supply, main responsibility was to top up the HP air groups for possible use with the divers Recompression Chamber, report the groups topped-up to OOD at 1800, then off ashore. Another occasional duty was to watchkeep on the Ruston-Hornsby Gas Turbine Generator which was housed in a compartment built onto the focsle. It was fitted to boost the electricity supply to nuclear boats alongside (HMS Dreadnought). Used to really unnerve me when the submarine switched main coolant pumps causing a big swing in power demand. The turbine had a funnel which was lowered when the turbine was not in use. As shown on Krieg1981 09-04-2009. People used to ask what the gun was! We did actually go to sea for a few days, seem to remember we went to Scapa Flow. Thank you all who have posted pics of Maidstone.

[Bowcap]

Thanks Bowcap, am presuming your post is in response to post#32 Taffsparks and post#33 Dave Hutson??
Regards
Buster

Yes sorry for lack of info on that, first time use so can only get better

[zyckel]

Sorry about the poor quality - I'll try to find the original and scan it in again.

[alanandbren]

Was a killick stoker on Maidstone Aug ‘63 to Jan ’64 at Faslane, waiting to start Mechs course at HMS Sultan. Remember the HTP (High Test Peroxide) jetty, built to refuel the Excaliber & Explorer. Had a great job, special duties HP Air supply, main responsibility was to top up the HP air groups for possible use with the divers Recompression Chamber, report the groups topped-up to OOD at 1800, then off ashore. Another occasional duty was to watchkeep on the Ruston-Hornsby Gas Turbine Generator which was housed in a compartment built onto the focsle. It was fitted to boost the electricity supply to nuclear boats alongside (HMS Dreadnought). Used to really unnerve me when the submarine switched main coolant pumps causing a big swing in power demand. The turbine had a funnel which was lowered when the turbine was not in use. As shown on Krieg1981 09-04-2009. People used to ask what the gun was! We did actually go to sea for a few days, seem to remember we went to Scapa Flow. Thank you all who have posted pics of Maidstone.

Hi Fulcrum, I was up at Faslane in 63,you may have seen my post #77, it may make you feel like home. I'm posting these photos of the Maidstone diving team at that time, maybe you will remember a few faces.

Alan

[fulcrum]

Thanks alanandbren, no don't recognise anyone - but thank you anyway. Was only on Maidstone for 3 months. was also RA. Remember a particularly nasty RPO who used any form of delay before giving us our weekend leave pass.

[buster185]

Hi Alan, thanks, great pictures. Any idea why she's got such a list on and what are the black structures/screens in the last picture??
Regards
Buster

[SCRG1970]

JUst acquired this postcard from MAIDSTONE probably printed just after commissioned.
One point of interest was the "DUMMY FUNNEL", new to me.

Regards

gerry

[ted short]

Just a few pictures of the Maidstone including the WW1 vessel, slightly smaller.

Nice pictures Bob Thanks
Ted

I have just received a picture entitled Hartland Point, is this correct/what you were looking for?

Putty

great picture putty thanks
Ted

I remember Maidstone very well. We were alongside her from time to time in Belfast when my 'sweeper was on NI patrol. I've dug out a picture of her for you and one of the Hartland Point. I've added in the Forth too just for good measure
enjoy
Jan

Nice pictures Jan thanks
Ted

Here are two more of HMS Maidstone.

Wasn't there another ship operating with the Maidstone called "HMS Caroline"?
before H Block was completed.

Wombat,
(James).

good pictures James
ted

[RichyB]

Whilst serving on HMS Maidstone, in late 65 or early 66, can't remember exact dates, Faslane recieved a courtesy visit from the USS Scorpion, which at that time was based at the Holy Loch. As I was in the Juniors Mess at that time, a ship visit to the Scorpion had been arranged and about 20 of us from the Juniors Mess were invited on board. We were taken to the wardroom and given milk and biscuits, and a talk about the Scorpion and her role and capabilities by the XO.
Later that evening i managed to climb down on to a pontoon just forward of the Maidstone and took the attached photo. Being a Junior at the time and totally green, I put the film I had taken into a chemists shop in Helensburgh to be developed and printed, only to have the negatives returned with a refusal to print, due to the nature of the content (photo's of Faslane, the Maidstone and subs alongside - No Pornography) Later a friend of mine who did his own printing and developing printed the photo's for me. This is one I found of the Scorpion. I was saddened to learn that some 2 years later the Scorpion had been lost, and could only wonder if the officers and men who had welcomed us on board had been lost with her.

[john keenan]

She was an ex Liner converted as a submarine depot ship based at Faslane on the Clyde. I don't know whether she is still there or not.

HMS Maidstone replaced HMS Adament in Faslane in the early 60s with the 3rd submarine sq,and served there till she was moved to Ireland.

[Tony Leach]

I served in HMS MAIDSTONE in 1966 in Faslane prior to HMS NEPTUNE, she was commissioned in 1938 and still had her War Orders onboard. The last I heard of her she served as a prison ship for terrorists in Belfast. Her sister ships that I recall were HMS ADAMANT, HMS FORTH, still in commission in 1966

[john keenan]

Are there any pics floating about of Maidstone as an accommodation ship/prison ship, or the scrapping? Here is a couple of Maidstone pics.....

The " Big Gun " up front is a retractable funnel for a generator for HMS Drednought.:)