News Date Dec 2007

2007 is now coming to a close It is almost time to archive this page and move to a News 2008 page I hope will be as successful as this years. I have only managed to collect two obsolete mobile phones for the BISS for them to recycle. (One was mine anyway and thanks to Don Dunlop for the other) If you have an old mobile phone that you wish to off-load for a charity please send it to me. Used stamps are sent of to the RNLI, who in turn send them to Dartmoor Prison, the Cons then sift and sort through the stamps, package them and they are then sold onto collectors and shops, the RNLI gets all the proceeds.
contact me for further details.
Wishing you all a Happy New Year. (R.G.)
 

News Date Dec 2007

December 2007 will be the official 10 year anniversary since LOF was fully amalgamated/sold to Frontline® (The sale went through in the October) they own the LOF title and who knows whether it will ever remerge, although we know it would never be the same. 2007 has been a very successful year for the LOF News, with well over 150 News items on the latest news page, some 20+ lost and new LOF personnel 'found' and of course not forgetting the very successful August Leicester Reunion. There are no plans at present to hold any further reunions in the near future, but I am not ruling out another one in a few years time.
Thank you to all of the sponsors who make this website financially sound, to those who keep in touch regularly and for just visiting or passing by the website. We are close to approaching our 100,000 hit which I think will take place in January 08 and for a small company and website I think this is a exceptional achievement.
I wish everyone a very merry Christmas, a prosperous and hopefully healthy New Year.
With regards, Roy

News Date Dec 2007

 Alistair Roaf. (Ex 3rd/Off - 2nd/Off) After LOF Alistair went back to his old company BP, he took an MBA and quickly climbed the promotion ladder becoming Master in his early 30's. He has recently resigned from BP and begins as a Marine Consultant for Brookes Bell in Liverpool. Michelle still enjoys her Art Therapy and son Hamilton started school in September.
Bob Fullagar. (Nav Cadet - Master) Bob is back at sea on the 'New Alliance', luckily he is on a different run and spent an unusual 36 days at sea Mexican Gulf to Far East, instead of his usual 42 hours at sea. Both sons are gainfully employed and Elsie plans to carry on working as senior community physiotherapist for another couple of years.

News Date Dec 2007

Credit to the Merchant Navy Association.... Top This for a Speeding Ticket. Two British traffic patrol officers from North Berwick were involved in an unusual incident while checking for speeding motorists on the A1 Great North Road. One of the officers used a hand-held radar device to check the  speed of a vehicle approaching over the crest of a hill, and was surprised when the speed was recorded at over 300 mph. Their radar suddenly stopped working and the officers were not able to reset it. Just then a deafening roar over the treetops revealed that the radar had in fact latched on to a NATO Tornado fighter jet which was engaged in a low-flying exercise over the Border district, approaching from the North Sea. Back at police headquarters the chief constable fired off a stiff complaint to the RAF Liaison office. Back came the reply in true laconic RAF style: 'Thank you for your message, which allows us to complete the file on this incident. You may be interested to know that the tactical computer in the Tornado had detected the presence of, and subsequently locked onto, your hostile radar equipment and automatically sent a jamming signal back to it.  Furthermore, an air-to-ground missile aboard the fully-armed aircraft had also automatically locked onto your equipment. Fortunately the pilot flying the Tornado recognized the situation for what it was, quickly responded  to the missile systems alert status, and was able to override the automated defence system before the missile was launched and your hostile radar installation was destroyed. Good Day... Eugenie Noonan

News Date Dec 2007

Edward Kemp.. At last have now connected with the world! My better half, Flora, decided that surfing is more beneficial than prolonged visits to the "local ". A very belated thanks to both you and Paul for making the 2007 Reunion most enjoyable . It was great to see so many survivors from the LOF days. I was very sorry to learn of the passing of Capt. John Clark. If my memory is correct, I recall being an apprentice he being Third Mate on the tanker "Duchess of Athens" some 50 odd years ago. Merry Christmas (E.K.)

News Date Dec 2007

Nostalgia - History...My group of " Old Salts "have recently been discussing some ships equipment which we had in  "Olden Days"  and this one came up  I wonder if you remember it  This is what ours in L.O.F.  looked like (it was a bright yellow in colour) You had to crank the handles at sufficient speed to keep the red light showing as I remember it. (This was a Salvitta Lifeboat Transmitter/Receiver) Ambrose Jones. (I have on 2 occasions had the misfortunes to thrown a dustbin lifeboat Transmitter/Receiver into a swimming pool - needless to say that on both occasions it sank like a brick - R.G.)

Notice the Radio Officers have uniforms, cap and "50's Senior Service" haircuts (done by anyone who had a half decent pair of scissors) In my days at LOF we paid 6 beers to the Indian Crew for a decent chop, the mean ones bought their own shears and gave themselves a Number One. In recent times on Cruise Ships, we had the Steiner® Girls working in a fantastic kitted out 'spa', the Young Engineers normally went for a cut and blow that put them back around $20. The rest of us made do with the Carpenters (Philippino) Workshop - $10 no blow and with a cold beer thrown in. Nearly every Steiner® Girl ended up marrying one of the Engineers or occasionally a Deck Officer, I am pleased to say that most of them are still together. (R.G.)
 

News Date Dec 2007

Ambrose Jones.. I have just been speaking to John Moss (Ex Rad/Off) It was a heart attack which John had 25+ years ago He had a stroke 15 years ago, the second 4 years ago and the most recent was this year he wanted to let you know that he had remembered the first radio equipment he worked with was a " McKay Radio and that the Emergency Receiver was wait for it  a Cats Whisker. Fortunately having been brought up on a farm I remember what that is because I had  one in a beautiful wooden box containing a glass dome in the dome was a "graphite" looking crystal in a holder also there was a thin wire on a swivel arrangement which you could move to touch different parts of the crystal so that  you could hear the program on the earphones.  When I was first given the set I had to take a wire aerial through the window and up to the chimney and across the road to the hill I was whilst holding on to the aerial AND the chimney that I first encountered static electricity. Now that was a shocking experience  !!!!! I wonder how many of the younger generation would try and make their own Cats Whisker radio? and what would the Health and Safety people make of free climbing on the roof to deploy the aerial? I wonder how many of the Colwyn Bay Radio College members ever sailed with " Cats Whisker" Emergency Receivers?.... Best wishes. A.J.

News Date Dec 2007
 

News from Far... Far Away....
Our old friend Ben Killeen (Ex Rad/Off) sends his regards from 'Gallows Hill'? 'I am slowing down a bit, I will be 85 in January and the Merchant Navy Pension Fund estimated I would live only 5 years into retirement?. It was a long wet summer and I only went fishing twice. Wife Madeleine is keeping well, she had a big operation for arthritis - she has got two stainless steel knee caps and the operation was a great success. My best regards to everyone. Ben.



Dick Cunningham (Ex Rad/Off - EEO) I was sorry to hear of the death of John Clark, as I had sailed with him quite a lot, we were over in Ireland a lot since the death of Mary's mother a short while ago. Best wishes to all Dick & Mary



Bryan Watkins. (Ex 3rd/Off - Master) Bryan has just gone back to sea on the 'Leo Star' Kim is working at Modbury school, their girls Katy is in the sixth form studying Maths, Art, Biology and Psychology. Lorna is in year 10 and doing her GCSE's.

John Trotter. (Ex Rad/Off) Good to hear that Captain Cornish is still on the go. I remember, anchored in the Gulf, sitting in the radio room for hours on Christmas Day, waiting for Portishead and making phone calls - he brought me a bottle of gin! Probably the one and only time I ever got any appreciation for what I did, mind you there wasn't much of it left by the time I got out of the shack! He may not remember that as it was only 33 years ago! Please pass seasons greetings on to him. I must have told you I was looking forward to retirement - I sure am, unfortunately it's about 5 years away. The upside of that is that the years are passing quicker and quicker, so I won't be wishing my life away for too long. I'd just like to thank you for all the work you've put in with the Website and the Reunions, bringing the LOF family together. John T

News Date Dec 2007

News Date Dec 2007

More snippets...Charles Cornish. (Ex Apprentice - Master) Still working for Exxon-Mobile out in Nigeria 28 on/28 off. Charles is at home for this Christmas and expects to be going back in the Exxon Office in the near future.
Jon Moss. (Ex Rad/Off) went to sea in 1943 and is 82 years young... is just getting over a 3rd Stroke, John sounds weak, but is in good spirits.....
Adrian (The Ex Harley Man) Latham. Is on standby over the Christmas Holidays, covering the Birmingham and North Midlands area, Adrian has given bike and women up for the time being, he is a service engineer for a pump and compressor company.
Norman Neill. (Ex Elect/Off) is spending Christmas in Northern Ireland, he and Valerie are out to Agadir in Morocco in February in preparation for another imminent grandchild.

News Date Dec 2007

Andy Dow...Just a little note to inform you that since l will be 60yrs old on the 27th Dec, Janice my wife has finally convinced me to retire. The only problem is that l do not have much time to practice my golf swing and take on Ray Appleyard before my wife and l head out to Cullen Bay in Darwin, N.T. Australia. to spend our retirement. She has made a wonderful job of the house since l have been working on a project in Aswan Egypt. I hope you have another reunion when l will make it my utmost priority to attend. Kind wishes to everyone who remembers me. (A.D.)

News Date Dec 2007

News snippets..... Happy Birthday.. Charlie Stuart. (Ex Rad/Off) Charlie has reached a dizzy 58 and is on wind-down at his job with Aberdeen Council, he is not e-connected, his son Callum sailed with LOF as apprentice, and is in-between jobs at present. Wife Carol still suffers with arthritis.
Len Sherriff. (Ex EEO) Is back in the UK, he and Kaye spend most of the decent weather on their boat in Holland.
Ron Mortimer. (Ex Master) keeping well and under the feet of wife Rita.
Dave Lawrence. (Ex Rad/Off-EEO) Still working on the ferries out of Dover.
Jeff Campbell. (Ex 2nd/Off - Ch/Off) He and Janet have decided to retire from the hospitality business and plan to live in Cleveleys.
Paul Cartwright. (Ex Cat/Off) He and Gwen have put their mobile home in hibernation and will be at home for Christmas. Paul is keeping well and still having medical check ups and tests.
Brian Ashby. (Ex 4th/Eng - 2nd/Eng) Brian is still having tests carried out after some issues earlier this year, the doctors can not seem to find out what is causing him issues.
Peter White. (Ex EEO) Peter has suffered poor eyesight and has been declared 'blind' he lives in St. Austell.
Adrian Cook. (Ex Eng/Cad - 4th Eng) Good to have met up with Adrian in South Shields having not seen him for 20+ years, he has a new partner - Wendy and he still survives at 'Corus/British Steel'. Adrian is a Union Official and is also counting down the years to retirement?
Jean Kirkham. Is keeping well in Brittany France.
John Peters. (Ex Nav/App - Master) John is still livestock farming in Devon and a part time channel/north sea pilot, wife Julia has recovered from her hip operation is back riding again.
Ambrose Jones. (Ex Dec App - Ch/Off) Keeping well and helps a great deal in finding 'new' people amongst our LOF Associates - well done Ambrose.
Jeremy Attwater. (3rd/Off - Master) Jeremy is now part time with HM Hydrographic Office and is slowing down towards retirement.
Bob Stinchcombe. (Ex 2nd Eng - Ch/Eng) Still ongoing issues from the after effects of his knee operation - and not yet active on the golf course only the 19th?
Irene Gillie. Keeping ok.
Dougie Brown. (Ex 3rd/Eng) He and Joyce have been out for a family get-together in Palm Springs.
Dave Vincent. with wife Nancy are wintering in sunny Australia.

News Date Dec 2007
 

Nostalgia & History.... In 1939, when Britain was again at war, the UK Club was more international than it had been in 1919. Its underlying character was changing. The membership was still predominantly British, about 55 per cent by numbers of ships, but there was a strong US presence, 12 per cent, and Greek, nearly 10 per cent. One of the directors, Basil Mavroleon, elected in 1938, was Greek-born but sat as a representative of Tower Steamship Company. At the trials of the Elias G. Kulukundis in 1938 the family gathering includes Basil Mavroleon (front row, third from the left), the first Greek to be elected a director of the UK Club. Miles Kulukundis’s uncle, Manuel E. Kulukundis (front row, tenth from the left), is pictured in the group. Others include George E. Kulukundis (back row, third from the left), Nicholas B. Rethymnis (front row, seventh from the left), John Kulukundis (right of the group) and A.G. Pappadakis (fourth from the right of the group, facing camera). (P&I/Lloyds R.G.)
The 'Atlanticos' in a watercolour painted by Manuel E. Kulukundis, uncle of Miles Kulukundis.
The 'Atlanticos' was the first post war (I) acquisition in 1922 by Rethymnis & Kulukundis (R&K's)

News Date Dec 2007










London Explorer.

Keith McCart. (Ex Deck Apprentice) I decided to finish my deck apprenticeship half way through the four years, after a general cargo ship I found the tankers and bulk carriers not so exciting. However I have great memories and look back with immense fondness at my time with LOF. Think if they had kept me on general cargo ships I would have stuck it out, blessing in disguise really as the demise of the British Merchant Fleet was just round the corner and I would probably have ended up jobless. As it was I then had a very successful Police Career (now retired) which was also very enjoyable and gave me some exciting work abroad too. Well now I live in Thailand. Best wishes. (K.M.)
(A young Keith McCart - London Banker New York in snow 1966)

News Date Dec 2007

M.v. Welsh Endeavour...Nearly Completed (See below Nov & June this year)
Just returned from visiting dad and his ‘shipyard’…..Progress has been amazing lately – may have something to do with him just having had delivered his next project: HMS Victorious (aircraft carrier) at 1:128 scale (also 7 feet long!!!). All complete now bar some detailing/weathering and then the sailing trials (if we can find a vehicle large enough to transport it to the pond!!!!). He has thoroughly enjoyed this project and the research that went with it. Best regards Carl Tunnicliffe.

News Date Dec 2007

Pete Collins. (Ex Deck Apprentice - Ch/Off) Here is a photo of the 'London Resolution' sent in by Mike Hooks (Ex R/O) crest, it was taken in around 1964-5, Pete Collins informs that L-R is Steve Hogley, Deck/App, the Cassab and himself. From what I remember Lothian Clark was Master, Peter Ellwood was C/O (One of the first LOF apprentices, left as Master to teach at South Shields College, where is he now?) The 3/0 was Tommy (Tony?) Tucker I think. (P.C.)
 

News Date Dec 2007

Don Dunlop. (Ex Eng-Cadet - 2nd/Eng) Don has been working for ABS in the Middle east for the past 4 years. He is now back in the UK and is now a Lloyds Surveyor in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and the NE UK. (R.G.
 

News Date Dec 2007

Peter (F.F.) Smith. Served my time in a small boatyard in Buckie.  I then did a trip with Benline before joining LOF in 1970. Sailed on 'Citizen' as junior, Master S.A. Dickson, then did trips as 4/E on 'Finnamore Valley', Master E. Hansen,  Confidence, Masters Lemmy Jeret & J. Cooper, and finally again on 'Citizen', Master J. Wallace, before coming ashore to get married.  Met some great blokes, but the memories are fading a bit now. I never went back deep sea; spent the last 30 odd years in maintenance and production in North Sea oil, mainly with B.P. Retired earlier this year, and loving it. Regards, Peter (F. F. Smith)

News Date Dec 2007








The Merchant Navy Association Wreath
.











The LOF Wreath.

 

A funny thing happened?..... the other day...Firstly I must thank everyone who contributed to the wreath of Captain John Clark, I will in due course place an article on the Obituary page with credit to those friends. Also thanks to Ron & Audrey Todd, who gave me B&B for the night so that I didn't have too far to travel on Tuesday the 4th December. Ron has made a couple of prototype LOF Flag Tiles, more at another time. I arrived in the village of Hook near Goole nice and early, and found Capt Rod Tarbuck, who had also just arrived, this being about 09:15. We found the church and asked some locals if this was the 'only' church - yes was the answer. 09:45 came and there was still no one around, I went next door to the vicarage, no one in?. By 10:00 Tarbie and myself were getting somewhat worried and I was apologising like mad, as I thought I had the wrong date/time/place. My Mobile phone had gone from fully charged to nil in about 3 seconds and no mobile computing for us old seadogs. 10:15 came and we thought we would 'abandon' the wreath for some other lost soul. 10:30 came and we were in the process of finding the nearest Pub to drown our sorrows. A black limo arrived and after a brief conversation, we had been rescued....by the undertaker, Martin Clark had sent him to take us to the real location some 4 miles away.....in Goole itself. The family/vicar held up the service so that we would be present. All ended well, and I passed on all our condolences to the family from everyone who had contacted me to do so. Tarbie and myself felt glad and yet humbled to have made the funeral - my thanks to all the Clark family for making us welcome. RIP - Captain John Clark. (We were in the place that was originally given to us)

News Date Nov 2007

News Date Nov 2007

John Clark Senior (Ex Ch/Off - Master) John Clark passed away last weekend after losing his fight with prostate cancer, leaving his devoted wife Norma, three Children, and seven Grandchildren. John will be buried at the church where he and Norma were married a little over fifty years ago just outside Goole on Tuesday 4^th December. John and Norma retired to Spain over twenty years ago and although Norma is still living there, she is now reconsidering her future plans but will be available at the following address until shortly after the funeral; 24 West Mill Rise, Walkington, Beverley, East Yorkshire.
Regards John Clark (aka Martin Clark)

It is my intention to attend the funeral of John Clark on the Tuesday 4th December, I will also arrange as usual for a suitable wreath on behalf of our LOF Colleagues, any donations will be gratefully accepted and if anyone wishes to attend the funeral with me, Martin would welcome this, please if you plan to attend, let me know, and we shall have a rough idea of the number of us attending - thank you. Roy Gerstner. contact me
 

News Date Nov 2007

Peter Devenport. (Ex Ch/Off) Further to Peters posting on the messageboard, he is still very much gainfully employed. The mooring masters job in Liverpool was given up because had a fabulous offer in Equatorial Guinea to be a pilot in Malabo but then I got a better offer to be a ship inspector for several oil companies. The hardest part is the travel as some months I can have over a dozen flights. I also teach and train for a British Flag company and that I really do enjoy. Other things I do include writing ISM manuals and auditing. In all I lead a very busy life and as my own boss I can say yes or no Trouble with me though is I rarely say no and that gets me into to trouble with Judi. They have a house in France, but still like to return to home base near Rochdale. (R.G.)

News Date Nov 2007

M.v. Welsh Endeavour. Here is some updated photographs of the model project - which has been an ongoing for a number of patient years. I am very grateful to Carl Tunnicliffe, his father a retired Police Officer took on a project to build a 7 foot scaled model of the WOF vessel 'Welsh Endeavour'. (See previous article on this page June 2007 below) All ships rails fitted and painted, Superstructure completed, Cargo derricks completed and being rigged, All hatches completed. He is just now rigging the derricks and adding the fine detail. The next job is to take her to the pond for ballasting (approx. 50lb of lead!!!) and sailing trials. This will probably occur in the next two weeks. I am sure that we wish Mr. Tunnicliffe Senior a successful launching of this super model.

News Date Nov 2007

Cedar Hill Can anyone put some history to an event that took place in 1957? There was reported a 'mutiny' onboard this vessel when she was in Straits of Formosa. contact me
 

News Date Nov 2007


Rad/Off, Capt D. Muir,
& Norman Evans.

Ambrose Jones. (Ex Apprentice - Ch/Off). Sends the following. Norman Evens.
On the 10th May 1952, (when I was only 23 days into my first voyage as an apprentice) the 'London Pride I' was at sea moorings in 18 fathoms some 2 miles off Sidon, in the Lebanon, preparing to load a cargo of crude. Captain D. M. Muir decided that we should have an " Emergency Abandon Ship" drill, where we had to jump into the sea without life jackets even for those like myself (who was a non swimmer). As soon as I was in the sea, the heavily built Greek Engineer Theodore Iltsopolis decided to depth charge me, but in his  "horse play" he winded me and pulled me down deep, so that I got into difficulties. When Norman Evans saw what was happening, he jumped in and got me to the companionway platform, then back on to the main-deck before diving in again, where he took Theodore Iltsopolis down deep, and long, before bringing him back coughing and spluttering to the companionway, and he also gave Theo. Iltsopolis a verbal warning as to his future behaviour. Theo. Iltsopolis never gave me any problems for the remainder of the voyage.
Now what of Norman Evans himself?  
Norman Evans  went to Smith's Nautical School in Cardiff and served his apprenticeship as a pilot before he went to sea to obtain his Master's Certificate to enable him to become a qualified pilot. During his apprenticeship, one of his duties was to raise steam on the pilot cutters! Norman worked for a number of companies before he sailed with LOF, including Beltinge (Constants of Cardiff) and a vessel named 'Jersey Spray' came into the history somewhere. After LOF, he sailed with Buries Markes on various vessels (including La Cordilera) until 1957, eventually sailing as Chief Officer. He was repatriated from Germany immediately his son David (aka Dai) was born on October 1st, 1957, and didn't go back deep sea. Over further years his family grew, having three children - two boys and a girl He very nearly emigrated to New Zealand (a port called Karori, near Wellington on North Island) to set up a stevedoring business, but decided against it at the last moment and stayed in the UK to become a Bristol Channel Pilot with The Bristol Channel Pilotage and Steam Cutter Company Ltd in 1957. The Barry Pilot Station had two cutters – the "Quest" and the "Rupert Philips". Falling trade and tonnage through Barry caused him to resign from Barry Pilots, and he left Barry in 1969 to work as a Shift Harbour Master on Kharg Island where he stayed until well into the Islamic Revolution in 1979.  He  was one of the last four expatriate pilots on the island and formally closed down the port as he left for the airport; he was flown to Athens for debrief before flying home - his family hadn't seen or heard from him for over a year He spent about a year at home before he started work as Advisor to  he Assistant Director General of The Islamic Port of Jeddah in 1980 and stayed there until 1982 whereupon he moved to Marsa Al Brega as Senior Pilot/Harbour Master until October 1990. He formally retired after leaving Brega and moved to a cottage in Spain with his wife, but he worked in Marine Consultancy on an occasional basis whenever he saw a job that interested him. Norman Evans died on 22nd November 1993, having led an incredibly full and active life even now in meeting people in our industry it is surprising how many people know of Norman Evans. Norman's ashes were scattered on the Bristol Channel by the local 'sky pilot' from the Barry Lifeboat (for which his family is eternally grateful to the RNLI for allowing him this honour); his family are all amazed at the number of people in the town and in the port who still remembered and admired him. His son David (aka Dai) became a Marine Engineer, now working in Kazakhstan (starting his training with Buries Markes - his father's last seagoing employer) and admits that there were occasional (and good natured) oil-and-water arguments between them. I am indebted to Dai and his Mother for the above information. (A.J.)

News Date Nov 2007
 

David Meare. (Ex Rad/Off) Now Senior development Engineer with EchoStar, sends the   following. Back in the spring of 1993 we took a few days off work during term time so that places would be quiet. We nipped over to Llandudno and as it was a really nice day we went up the Great Orme in a cable car and gave our little lad, then aged four, a great day out. However he wasn't satisfied and wanted  to get down to some work with his bucket and spade. So after a drive round the headland we came to a section of walled coast road that looked as though it had a beach on the other side. I stopped and climbed up some steps and instead of rolling sands there was a boating lake. I couldn't believe my eyes. There at the far end of the lake was an LOF ship and standing near me was a bloke fiddling with a radio control transmitter. So I introduced myself as an ex LOF man and we talked for a while as my little son became even more irritated at not having some sand to dig. The guy said he'd no connection with LOF or the sea but had just thought the
 Craftsman would be a nice ship to build a
 model of. He said he'd been constrained to get the aft section a bit out of proportion, but he'd been as true as he could. Apparently he'd won prizes for the model at shows and on one occasion was introduced to a former employee who'd sailed as Master on the larger model. I seem to remember the name being Peter Wright and vaguely remember that name from LOF. Best wishes Dave (Capt Peter Wright see March 2007 News below)

News Date Nov 2007

Website outage.... Lycos the web provider inform me that there will be an outage on the 27th November from approximately 0000z to 0800z, lets hope we are back again....

News Date Nov 2007

Back to business.... We enjoyed a fantastic vacation to Thailand on the Island of Koh Samui and in the North at Chiang Mai. Andy Sinclair has sent the following pictures,                                 








These are 1:1200 scaled models supplied  by 'Wirrel Miniature Ships' they can be found at a link on www.onboardbooks.co.uk on the pictures sent by Andy, he has placed a 20p coin to give an idea of the size, he says that the pictures do not show the ships off at their best, and that they do have a lot of detail. The total cost was £54:00 for the pair, all details and good nautical books from the above website.
Whilst at the LOF Reunion Dave Vincent introduced us to a John Apps, who makes painted tiles mounted on a frame  as per the one I purchased of the 'London Enterprise II', they cost £32:50 which includes post and packaging. Contact Mr. John Apps 53, The Vale, Brentwood, Essex UK CM14 4UP The size of the actual tile is approx 18 x 7.5 cm

News Date Oct 2007


N.J. The latter days.
'London Enterprise III'
 

Noris Jackson. (Jnr/Eng - Managing Director) A Happy 75th Birthday to NJ. (29th?)  It all started off around August 1953 on Basil Mavroleon (BM's) yacht 'The Radiant' built around 1926 (or there-abouts). Leaving the vessel in December 1953 for a minor operation and was transferred to LOF/Counties the same month. Unfortunately the 'Merchant Navy Establishment (NME) would not allow me to go to sea until 6 weeks after the operation. However the HMG (Her Majesty Government) did not have the same regulations and sent my 'call up' papers for National Service. I contacted Counties and received a letter the next day telling me to 'ignore' HMG and to go to Liverpool  and join the 'Fir Hill'. The idea was that I would stay on the ship in the UK and when it sailed for  foreign climes I would then  transfer to another vessel etc, until I was  passed 'fit' by the Pool Doctor. I sailed with Geoff Baskerville on the 'Wembley Hill', also sailed on the 'Fry Hill' and 'Streatham Hill' before transferring to the LOF fleet. The rest is of course history, apart from how I got the job on BM's yacht  - but that is another story. Above picture N.J. 'London Valour' (N.J.)

News Date Oct 2007

Happy Birthday..... Brian Nicholls ...... Happy 60+ Brian..... Still able to cock his leg over his motorbike?

News Date Oct 2007

Tomie McGuigan  (Ex Nav Apprentice - 3rd/Off) My LOF connection started in June 1970 when Capt Cuff provided me with my first experience of flying. A Belfast - London round trip for the job interview. Ironically, when it came time to join the first ship, it was just prior to the main holiday in N Ireland, so all flights were booked out. That meant taking the overnight ferry and train to London, all of which took far longer than the interview round trip. The second and last time I ever saw 8 Balfour Place was a few days later when I picked up the ship's mail, before catching another train and ferry. Yes, it is true to say that my first two ships in LOF were ferries. (Good question for an LOF Reunion quiz.) First ship was the 'Independence', Capt Owen Connor. Joined in Le Havre, July 1970, as a Deck Cadet. Then came 'Resolution', 'Prestige', 'Harmony', 'Citizen', 'Fusilier' and finally the 'Cavalier' as 3rd Mate under Capt William Setter Jaeger. Discharged Nagoya Ko, August 1974. I was probably the last of the old apprentice/cadets, not one of the college-sea-college etc cadets. Post LOF, I headed for Canadian waters, which I had visited on both the 'Citizen' and 'Fusilier'. The prospect of yet another boring 4-6 week trip around the Cape of Good Hope (Suez was closed) was just too much, so I decided to stay within sight of land and get paid 33% more, minus air fare. Eventually I became assimilated and spent 20 yrs in the Canadian Coast Guard, mainly on Hovercraft. After 7 yrs without a pay rise (the Canadian government thought that an easy way to reduce the deficit was to freeze Civil Service salaries) I returned to my native land. Since very late last century, up to date, P&O European Ferries (Irish Sea) Ltd have been supplementing my income. Initially at sea, but when they replaced the deck/engine ratings with Spaniards and removed all the British & Irish personnel from another ship, it seemed like a good time to accept the offer of a job ashore. Since then the fleet has shrunk from 13 ships to 5 + 1 seasonal fast ferry. Using foreign officers has been shelved for the time being. Best regards Tomie McGuigan

News Date Oct 2007

La Spezia.... was you there? I took the Valour to La Spezia and it was very close to Christmas, so we had no wish to hang around. Signed off on the 19th December 1966. The company wanted to send us all home by train. I said "No chance I'm flying, tell the agent to get me a plane ticket and LOF can bill me the difference. (D.M.)

'London Prestige' under conversion at La Spezia in 1966 alongside new arrival  'London Valour'








'London Valour' arrives alongside 'London Prestige' being Converted La Spezia Dec.1966

News Date Oct 2007

News from Wales..... Bob & Margaret Stinchcombe both are keeping well, Bob's knee recovery after an operation some 14 months ago, is about as good as it is going to get, Margaret is keeping well, they are planning a holiday early next year. Mick & Gwyn Howells are holidaying in India, Mick taking it easy now he is in retirement. Di Walker, is still under medication, for his shortness of breath, Rita is keeping well. (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007

 

News Date Oct 2007

Hylton Burdon. (R.I.P.) (Ex Ch/Eng) Cullercoats Lifeboat NE England. The Hylton Burdon, an Atlantic 85, is the Royal National Lifeboat Institution's most technologically advanced inshore boats. Further to the previous short article earlier this year, whilst in Newcastle - South Shields recently I tried to visit the lifeboat station, alas, the weather was not favourable and a steep set of steps made me think it unwise. However, we have Roland Sisterson who lives not far away and I am hoping he can supply me with a more detailed story of how this 'legacy' from Ch/Eng Hylton Burdon came about. You can visit the Cullercoats lifeboat station website with pictures/history etc by Clicking Here I was asked at the LOF Reunion by a Senior Office Staff member 'where' Hylton Burdon' got all this money from' where upon someone who overheard the question 'said' the same place as yourself 'La Spezia?'. (For the uninformed LOF converted a number of Tankers into Bulk Carriers during the 60's at La Spezia shipyard.) Was you there? (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007


Gordon Emmerson
October 2007

Gordon Emmerson ...... Happy 89th Gordon..... (22nd October 2007) Excuse me for being a bit early, I am busy for a few days, Gordon will be 89 next week, he served his time with John Lynn & Co of Sunderland from 1934 to 1938. In May 1938 he went to sea with 'J. Chambers' of Liverpool, his first ship being the 'Munster Castle' , he was on this ship in March 1942 when it was torpedoed. Gordon was promoted to 2nd/Eng in 1945. He joined LOF on the 28th March 1952 and sailed as 2nd/Eng until taking a slightly early retirement in October 1979, his last ship being the 'London Baron'. Sadly Gordon lost his wife Francis nearly 2 years ago. He is today (17th) flying off from Newcastle International Airport to Egypt, to join a Nile Cruise for 2 weeks. I am sure that we all wish Gordon a very happy birthday. (Thanks to Malcolm Cuthbert who obtained Gordons early photos. (R.G.)
  
 

News Date Oct 2007

Gerry Skinner in 1978

Gerald Skinner. I joined the 'London Earl' in Rotterdam, Holland on 24 November 1978 and paid  off in Bilbao, Spain some 26,124 nautical miles and seven months later, John Munday was the Master I have many happy memories of that trip.  An incredible mix of personalities but what a team it taught me a lot about getting on with other people.  It was a training ground for people skills that I have found to be most valuable. I accomplished the grand total of 5 voyages with LOF as a Nav Cadet/4th Officer. After gaining my 2nd mate Class 3 qualification I was made redundant early in 1983. In April 1983 I joined Ready Mixed Concrete and sailed in the capacity of 2nd Mate dredging for marine aggregates in the English Channel and North Sea running into near continental and southern UK Ports.  The job was very interesting but the winter weather in the North Sea was often appalling and decided after 12 months I'd had enough and in 1985 left the UK to travel the world. Ending up in Australia in 1987 I'd always been interested in things environmental and having made the realisation that the only way I was going to go anywhere was to further educate myself I enrolled for a science degree course at the University of Canberra in 1988. I studied ecology and natural resources majoring in Land Science and Environmental Management graduating during 1991. Despite some parts of the course being a bit tough I persevered and achieved the goal. During this time in 1989 we had the first of our three daughters we named Annieka. Our second daughter, Deoni followed in 1992 and Yasmyn in 1996 I landed a job with the West Australian Department of Agriculture working as a Technical Hydrologist with their Catchment Hydrology Team.  I was based in the beautiful coastal town of Esperance on the South Coast of WA In the past 9 years I have been based in Albany working with GIS in the Natural Resource Management arena in catchment and farm planning for land conservation and salinity mitigation, surface water management, floodplain mapping and more recently in water allocation planning as Western Australia and indeed the whole of Australia is facing some pretty serious water shortage issues I hope the next 29 will be as varied and interesting.  Presently looking at ways of bringing forward the retirement date so we have plenty of time to go travelling and exploring this vast continent. Please pass my best wishes on to the following, Bob Patmore, Bob & Margaret Stinchcombe, Jeremy Attwater, Mick Howells, Roger Berryman, Gordon Lazarus, Alec Priestly, John Ireland, Jonathan Plunkett and Phil Thompson. (G.S.)

News Date Oct 2007
 

Annwen Lewis ...... Happy 40th Annwen..... Is the wife of Nigel Lewis (Ex Eng Cad - Ch/Eng) Annwen sailed with Nigel for a number of years prior to having their two boys aged 10 & 9 Nigel was like many, made redundant twice from LOF. He did a few runs with the 'Cuff' Scrap Boys - taking large tankers out to the far east for scrapping. After the 2nd redundancy, Nigel joined Stenna in Holyhead/Anglesey as 2nd/Eng. He has been Ch/Eng for a number of years now on the fast seacat ferries. They live close by near Holyhead. (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007

The October Most Wanted List. Do you have any knowledge of the where-abouts of the following Ex LOF Personnel ?? Steve Benstead (Ex Nav/Off) Ted Shirt (Ex Radio/Off) Steve Hyams (Ex Nav/Off) Glen Samuels (Ex E&EO) or Dave Hindle (Ex Eng/Off)  Please  contact me if you have any information  - many thanks in advance. (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007

Ron Todd. (Ex Jnr/Eng - 3rd/Eng) Ron served his time with 'Holmes Shipbuilders' of Hull (Tom March was an apprentice of Ron) from 1951 to 1958. He then spent 2 years National Service on Landing Craft. In 1960 Ron joined the 'London Victory I' and sailed mainly on tankers until 1969. After LOF a variety of companies including Denholms, Steve Clarkes, Rowbottom Tankers, a 'Wharton - Coaster for 7 years, then Everards for 5 years, Ron remained Coastal/Mediterranean/North Sea/Black Sea until he retired in October 1995 after 35 years at sea. He has been married to Audrey for some 30+ years and they live with a view of the Humber River. (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007
 

Alf Rutherford. (Ex Elect/Off) Served his time with 'Sunderland-Fords' - Engineering works 1948 to 1955. Alf went to sea originally with Common Bros, in 1956. He joined LOF in 1960 and sailed on the 'Overseas Courier', 'London Confidence', 'London Harmony' and finally on the 'Overseas Adventurer'. He left in 1964 to join what was to become 'Pyrex' Glass Co. starting as a Melting Technician and working his way up to become 'Personnel Manager'. Alf is 73 years young and has been married for 42 years - they still live in Sunderland. (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007

 

M2S - South Shields -  Reunion Charity Cheque Presentation.
A personal thank you to all who supported Connie and myself for this event.

On the 7th October 2007 at the Mill Dam Missions to Seafarers - Dudley Fry, John Aspin, Ron Todd, Roland Sisterson, (Diane Erskine- M2S), Ken Baxter, Alf Rutherford, Gordon Emmerson, Jack Knowles, Adrian Cook, Roy Gerstner, Ken Shaw, Jim Stronach, Dick Cunningham, Malcolm Cuthbert, Don Dunlop and all the accompanying ladies. We were all getting a bit worried when we arrived around 1pm to find the Mission pad-locked and a notice saying open at 7pm. We took refuge in the Pub across the street and fortunately Diane Erskine arrived with the keys. It was very good to see some shipmates who could not make the Reunions, Adrian Cook, Dick Cunningham, Jack Knowles and a new find Alf Rutherford (Ex Elect/Off). This now completes all the donations for the Charities nominated. Once more thank you to everyone who made the original prize donations, the generous support at the Leicester Reunion and for those above who made last Sunday a good meet up once more. (Better quality pictures are on the 2007 Reunion Photos page) (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007

Brian Ashby. (Ex 4th/Eng - 2nd/Eng) I am pleased to hear from Brian that he is feeling better, after lots of tests and exploratory probes, the surgeons can not find anything serious amiss, he still has a heavy cough, but feels progress has been made. He and Gill have been over to the UK for a wedding and next week for a funeral of an aunt. Progress and renovations continue on the large house they have in  St. Mars sur Colmont. Brian & Gill keep a retired greyhound. (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007

David Dimock. (Nav/Cadet - 3rd/Off) I joined LOF in 1984 aged 18 I was mightily impressed by the offices near Park Lane, and had 3 weeks induction at TS Worcester at Greenhithe. Joined the 'London Bombardier' with Steve Melton on the 23rd November 1974 - the Master was Bill Brown of whom my clearest memory is later in the trip. We were alongside in Madagascar, and the ladies of negotiable virtue had swarmed on board and I remember him, in the string vest which he wore all the time trying to chase them off the ship. The Mate was Dave Prosser who was excellent and taught me a great deal and who sang London music hall songs in a very fine voice. My two greatest mates on board were Alan Lybert the third mate from Liverpool and Al McMeekin from Northern Ireland who were instrumental in making sure I got a real education and that I sampled all the delights that foreign ports could provide in those days. Next sailed on the 'Explorer' with Capt Nelson. Then with Ron Mortimer whose main interest if I remember correctly was plumbing. It was the only time I've seen the Captain up to his arms in shit literally as well as figuratively. In July 76 after a period at college I joined the 'London Enterprise' in Stilis Bay Greece where we took her out of lay-up with Screaming Bill Jaeger (R.I.P) later as Master. I then sailed on the 'Victore'. This was followed by trips on the Enterprise as 4th Mate, and the Argonaut as 3rd mate. In 1980 I got married to Debbie (we're still together 27 years on) and she came away with me first on the 'Viscount' then on the 'Enterprise'. The 'Viscount' trip was enlivened by again sailing with Screaming Bill. In 1982 whilst at college was made redundant. I soon got a job out in Abu Dhabi as an oil cargo inspector and we lived out there until 1990 when redundancy again hit me. Then joined the Scottish Fisheries Protection Agency as second mate, then mate and during this time got my Masters ticket, but deciding it was unlikely that I would get a masters job with SFPA (dead mans shoes) I resigned. Did a year doing one off jobs on supply boats in the North Sea before going as mate with UECC car carriers in 1998. I stayed there for until 2002 but as again a skippers job looked unlikely I took voluntary redundancy. The next three years I worked ashore for the Cheshire Constabulary but decided it was too much like hard work so I am now back at sea as Skipper on Standby boats out in the North Sea. My son has grown and is now 24 and a trainee solicitor so I'm hoping he'll keep me in my old age. (D.D.)

News Date Oct 2007

Rod Tarbuck 1966

Rodman Tarbuck. (Ex Counties Apprentice/Master) Happy Birthday Tarbie.... Born in Philadelphia USA. Joined Counties Ship Management in 1947, joined his first ship the 'Crowborough Hill' in Birkenhead, transferred over to LOF in 1953. Promoted through to Master and remained until 1994, although retired in 1992, he acted as mentor to several Chief Officers who were at the time being promoted to Master. Many will remember the good parties Captain T and Jeannie gave for the crew and officers. He and Jeannie still live on the Wirrel peninsular near Liverpool. Jeanie is waiting for a hip replacement - they are both excited that they are due to become Grandparents in the near future. Rod Tarbuck will be 77 this week. Capt T, is a relation (distant) to 'Jimmy Tarbuck' the entertainer (R.G.)

News Date Oct 2007

Trevor Swatton. (Ex Nav/Cadet - 2nd/Off) Happy Birthday Trevor..... Served his Cadetship with LOF, began in 1969, South Shields Marine College, first ship joined the 'London Prestige' in La Spetzia - Bill Brown was the Master. Trevor survived all the way through to 1997, his last ship being the 'London Pride III' with Andrew Gillie as Master. Trevor secured a position with the 'Royal Fleet Auxiliary' (RFA) after being made redundant from LOF and has been with them ever since. He has been married to Rita for 32 happy years and has two sons Philip - 29 and Carl - 26. Trevor's contract are 4 months on and 3 months off - he doesn't get a great deal of sea-time in with the RFA. Trevor and Rita still live Blaydon Upon Tyne NE England. Trevor will be 55 this week. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Happy Birthday... John Dunsmore. (Ex 3rd/Off) John will be 82 this week, he went to sea in 1942 and the story of his first trip at sea can be read in the 'War Stories' section on the sidebar. John has attended both LOF Reunions and other than his war injuries and medication for his age related issues, seems in pretty good shape. Married for 29 years to Lillian, they live in Liverpool, they have no children. John is an avid model railway enthusiast. He walks to his local shops and enjoys his daily newspaper. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Roy Gerstner. (Ex R/O) I am pleased to say that after some more drilling of holes in my walls - which my wife Connie strongly disagrees with, the mounting of the 'London Grenadiers' is in place, near my Radio Room Clocks. Some 6 months after an operation on my ankle, I am still unfortunately limping about, with swelling and still pain, so not a lot of progress and it looks very likely that my seagoing days are about to end as I have difficulty with stairs and ladders, I am looking forward to meeting up with the Northeast - LOF Boys and Girls on the 7th October for the Mission to Seafarers Cheque presentation. BISS Receipt Parkinsons Receipt (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Jack (John) Knowles. (Ex Elect/Off - E&EO) Jack served his time with Northeast Marine an Engineering Company in Sunderland. He first went to sea with BP in 1957 and joined LOF on the 'Overseas Courier' in 1960. Jack was one of the first group to train and qualify as E&EO (Electrical & Electronic Officer), he was attached to the VLCC 'London Pride II' for a number of years. His last ship was the 'London Glory II' in 1985 on being made redundant. Jack went back with BP from 1986 to 1996, when he was invited back to LOF, this for a short period before the Company was amalgamated/sold in 1997. His last ship on this occasion was the 'London Pride III'. Jack is 73 years young, been married to Alice for 47 years, they have a son and daughter + 4 grand-children. They still live in Sunderland. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Success - Found - Tim Dace. (Ex 3rd/Off - Ch/Off) Tim originally went to the Sea Training Ship - Worcester, he joined Eagle Oil as an apprentice in 1962, however he completed his time with LOF. He joined his first ship the 'London Victory I' in 1963 - Andy McNab was the Ch/Off. Tim sailed on most types of vessels throughout his time with LOF, including a number of trips on the VLCC 'London Pride II', his last ship was in 1985 on  the 'London Enterprise II' and was then made redundant with the majority in that year. Wife Pauline ran a cattery in Somerset, and Tim set up his own haulage business, which he ran successfully for a number of years, before selling it off. They now are semi-retired and have lived in Penrhiwllan Llandysul - South Wales for some 20 years . Tim is 62 years young. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Peter Richardson. (Ex Rad/Off) Originally sailed with Marconi on the' Uganda' before she became a school cruise ship. Sailed with LOF on the 'Victory', 'Courier' and 'Statesman' then joined P&O sailing on the 'Arcadia', 'Ardtaraig' and 'Oronsay'. Tried the RFA on the 'Pearleaf'' (The most unhappy ship I was ever on). Studied at UWIST and still sailed for a while with P&O Cruises. Graduated with a B.Sc Hons in Maritime Studies (Control Systems) around 1977. Has worked for Mobil Oil and Marathon initially as Telecoms Engineer and promotion  to Manager of IT. In 2000 switched over to US Steel and sent to Slovakia as VP for IT. Retired in 2005, but has been working part-time as Manager of a small Web and Internet company in Stonehaven. He lives nearby. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Willie Calder. (Ex 4th/Eng - 2nd/Eng) Willie served his time at the 'Dounreay Power Station' near Caithness in Northern Scotland. He joined LOF in 1974 on the 'Overseas Adventurer' and remained until his last ship in 1985 'London Viscount' He now works for 'Andrew Banks' - Pentland Ferries as Ch/Eng they operate a daily ferry service between Gills Bay in Caithness, Scotland about 3 miles West of John o' Groats, and St Margaret's Hope on South Ronaldsay in Orkney. This route, known as The Short Sea Crossing, is generally considered to be the quickest route across the Pentland Firth, taking about 1 hour. The MV Pentalina B operates in the summer months. The MV Claymore operates in the winter months. Both are due for replacement by a new catamaran ferry, at present under construction, for the summer season 2008. Willie still lives nearby the Dunreay Power Station. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

The September Most Wanted List. Do you have any knowledge of the where-abouts of the following Ex LOF Personnel ?? John Blamaires (Ex 2nd/Off) was last with the RFA, had moved from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne - Where ?. Tim Dace - (Found See Above) Lance Dargue E&EO, James Dowling Eng/Off, Steve Benstead Nav/Off
Please to contact me if you have any information  - many thanks in advance. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Congratulations.... Arthur Finney. (Ex Cat/Off) Who celebrates his 66th birthday this week. Bob & Margaret Stinchcombe. (Ex Ch/Eng) They celebrate their 52nd Wedding Anniversary this week.

News Date Sept 2007

Phil Thompson. (Nav/Off) Phil begins a course of Chemotherapy in the near future, I am sure we all wish him well, and it was good to see him and Hilary at this Leicester Reunion. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

John Thake (Ex Nav/Off) I was with LOF as a deck officer from 1960 - 1968. I then worked for British Dredging, Thames Water Sludge Vessels and finally the last 18 years as a  pilot on the Thames retiring last week. I have just looked at the LOF website and really enjoyed seeing familiar faces - including my own. I have several photos, particularly of the London Independence and London Statesman between 1965 and 1967 when my wife Barbara sailed with me. It hardly seems possible  that 40 years have passed but we have some very good memories of the years deep sea. We are sorry to have missed the reunions and remember Roddy and Jeannie Tarbuck, Ron Mortimer, Roland Sisterson, Paddy Finlay, Cedric Paterson, Cedric Coates, John Jose, John and Marjorie Moss and others. Thank you for an interesting website (John and Barbara Thake)

News Date Sept 2007

Another Pinch of Salt. I am pleased to have received a copy of a book called 'Another Pinch of Salt' by Mr. John Russell of Northampton UK. The A5 sized book contains some 130+ pages of true tales of the sea by various Ex Seafarers, in this particular book many by Ex Radio Officers. David Meare has made a significant contribution from his days in LOF and other companies that he sailed with, other Ex LOF Officers contributing are John Trotter and Ron Stringer. John Russell studied at the Norwood Technical College and went to sea in 1956 with Marconi Marine, after a few trips he joined New Zealand Shipping as a direct employed R/O. John came ashore in 1963 and studied to be a Handicraft Teacher at Shoreditch training college. He taught in Northampton, as a  vocation until retirement. Now 70 years young he has written and complied other books including the original 'A Pinch of Salt'. Copies of Johns' recent compilation can be obtained from him direct - he prints and binds them himself for £8:00 (UK p&p inc). His address is :21 Landcross Drive, Abington Vale, Northampton NN3 3LR if you wish to e-mail him please obtain his e-mail address by contact me  A nice Birthday or Christmas present for some light humoured reading. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

The London Advocate Bell. Dave and Karen Kent have supplied the following photos, Dave was very pleased that Anna-Marie Williams donated her 'star' prize to him at the Leicester Reunion. The 'Advocate' was his first ship in LOF, he also met Annie-Marie many years ago when she visited her father (Captain Morgan) on a ship in the UK. Dave sailed with Captain Morgan on a number of occasions. The 'Bell' has a new home in Hunstanton on the East Coast of the UK. (DK) (Better quality pictures are on the 2007 Reunion Photos page)

News Date Sept 2007

British International Sailors Society (BISS) (08th Sept). We were privileged to welcome Mr. Ken Martin and his family on a cool and cloudy afternoon (not what the forecast had promised), along with Capt Robert Kitchener, Captain Dave & Karen Kent and a few of my neighbours for the 2007 LOF Reunion Charity cheque presentation. This is the 2nd presentation (see below Friends of the Sea) and is the climax of the generosity given by the donors and attendees of this Reunion. We were duly thanked by Ken and a glass of wine and beer to commemorate the event took place. My thanks to Robert, Dave and Karen for their support. (R.G.) (Better quality pictures are on the 2007 Reunion Photos page)

News Date Sept 2007

2007 Reunion Photos... Updated on 08th Sept. The are now 100+ Thumb nails (Photos Gallery - Reunion 2007) There are a few more to process and I am awaiting one more set from an associate. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Friends of the Sea - Keith & Barbara Cederholm. (06th Sept). Here are two photo's taken earlier this evening at our quarterly dinner. Myself and Barbara are seen with our chairman, Capt Colin Lee OBE. KStJ. JP. DL. Needless to say that the committee were extremely grateful and Colin will write personally to you in due course. In case you are wondering where the extra £10 came from, John Dunsmore gave me a cheque for £10 in lieu of transport to the Reunion. Friends of the Sea is a registered charity and provides help and assistance to young people wanting to pursue a career in  Seafaring. (Keith Cederholm) (Better quality pictures are on the 2007 Reunion Photos page)

News Date Sept 2007

The Missions to Seafarers, Mill Dam South Shields. (Third Charity Cheque)
Dear Friends, Colleagues and Family of LOF,
You are invited to attend,
On Sunday 07^th October 2007 a presentation cheque (£400:00) part of the proceeds of the 2007 LOF Reunion Charity Raffle. 

The presentation will be held at 2pm at:
The Flying Angel Cellar Club
53 Mill Dam
South Shields
NE33 1EF
Tyne & Wear 

This cheque is to The Missions to Seafarers (we knew it at Seamen) for their invaluable work in providing help and support to all seafarers. I am very pleased to be able to support this organisation with the very generous donations made in support of the Charity Raffle held at Leicester on the 18^th August 2007. If you can support us at this event, and of course be in the ‘picture’ I would be grateful if you could respond to me either by e-mail or write to me indicating your planned attendance, this will give us an idea of how many plan to join us – thank you. Malcolm Cuthbert can also be contacted for information. (R.G.)

News Date Sept 2007

Chaplain - Ken Martin.
(Thanks Ambrose Jones)

The second of the LOF Charity Raffle cheques will be presented to the BISS Chaplain Mr. Ken Martin from the Felixstowe Seafarers Centre. He and his wife will be guests here at my small house in Whittlesey on the 8th September. I am also pleased that Captain Robert Kitchener and Captain David Kent will be supporting me in this presentation. Weather permitting an outdoor photograph of the event will be posted on this site shortly afterwards. Please visit www.biss.org.uk

News Date August 2007

Brian Ashby. (Ex 2nd/Eng) Brian informs me that he has recently had some tests carried out, but results are still inconclusive, therefore he needs to go back into Hospital next week and will undergo some exploratory surgical investigation - lets hope all goes well. (R.G.)

Charity Raffle Photos.... 18th August 2007 @ Leicester UK 
            

          
PC & Ronnie Alexander.                         PC &  Marie Nicholls.
'Mothers Ruin' - Gordons Gin.                'Ships Chronometer'

Thanks to Malcolm Cuthbert for taking these pictures.

News Date August 2007



Malcolm Cuthbert.
Mick Howells.
John Howarth.
Margaret Stinchcombe.
Roy Gerstner.
Gordon Emmerson.




Connie Gerstner.

More Reunion Photos.... If you have any photographs taken at the Reunion, please send then to me, once I have the bulk I will create a new folder with better quality images than these shown here. Many thanks....(R.G.)
                        
 
Ron Todd. & Andy Anderson.                                    Ladaune Ashley (USA) &
                                                                                      Derek Shoebridge.
          

Gordon Lazarus & Dave Creighton              George & Margaret Pringle.

Due to the weather deteriorating the Group picture which was planned outside could not happen.

News Date August 2007

Another 3 Wise Men.
Steve Goodlad.
Bob Stinchcombe.
Bob Bruce.

Reunion News... Paul & Gwen Cartwright It was my privilege to present to  Paul & Gwen a small token of appreciation for their steadfast work in helping me to organise not one but two very successful LOF Reunions. Gwen is the financial brains behind the scenes and Paul is her able partner. I managed to obtain a 1960's (Sestrel) Heavy Chrome wind-up clock, fully serviced by Mr. Richards of Stilton near Peterborough (Clock-makers Father & Son) and mounted on a base of solid oak, supplied and made courtesy of Cliff Watson Head Pattern Maker at Hanson Brick. I am sure we wish Paul well in his progress of getting over a Heart attack a few years ago and a minor panic only a few weeks ago. Many thanks again. (R.G.)

News Date August 2007


One Chief & One Indian?
Gwyn & Mick Howells.

Michael Cuff. (Ex 3rd/Off - Master & Personnel Superintendent) I am pleased to congratulate Mike on his forthcoming 80th Birthday next week. I know from a great many people that Mike Cuff did a lot of 'favours' when he was in personnel, it was quite common for wives to phone up - with some hard luck down and out story, LOF/Mike Cuff often advanced money to these wives, without their husbands knowing about it. On more than one occasion, when mortgages were in default LOF loaned Officers the money to get them out of a sticky situation. There were not many companys that would do that for you. In fact one company in particular (SAF Marine) would not talk to wives at all, a friend on mine, who's husband had been away for 8 months rang up and she could not get past the switchboard? Click Here to see the Birthday Card which I am sending on behalf of us all. (R.G.)

Two Wise Men.
Noris Jackson.
John Ireland.
 

Reunion News... The LOF Reunions of 2004 and 2007 have resulted in 216 attending the 2004 Reunion and 173 attending the 2007 Reunion. Some 300 Ex individual Officers, wives and family have attended. Travelling from as far a field as Australia, Canada, USA, France and all four corners of the UK. The feedback received has been truly amazing. I am aware that other shipping companies of the era have similar following and loyalties, but I and numerous others have not had the same nostalgic euphoria that has been experienced at these two events. Over the next few weeks/months I will post photographs and stories as I receive them, please be patient. (R.G.)

News Date August 2007


One Indian & Two Chiefs?
Gordon Emmerson.
Val Jones.
Sheila Eckermann.

Reunion News... Pictured below L-R Valerie Jones, Sheila Eckermann, Len Eckermann & Ambrose Jones, meet up for the first time since they all sailed together on the 'London Majesty' 45 years ago. Ambrose also met up and renewed his friendship with Gordon Emmerson, whom he also had sailed with, when he (Ambrose) was a first trip apprentice in 1952, that was 55 years ago. Ambrose states that 'Gordon' hasn't changed a great deal? Ambrose Jones is 72 years young as is Len Eckermann, the wives look much younger?

LOF Reunion Charity News. A total of £1,200:00 has been raised from the 'Raffle' + David Murch found a £10:00 on the floor + left over proceeds from the organising fund. The first cheque for £400:00 is being send today to Keith Cederholm (On behalf of  Friends of the Sea - Click Here.) In due course the other two charities will be given their cheques. It is hoped that on 7th October we shall be in the Newcastle-Upon-Tyne area, and Malcolm Cuthbert will I am sure be getting a few of the lads together for a meet up. I am hoping to make a presentation to the Mission to Seafarers @ The Flying Angel Club Mill Bank on that date, but plans are in the early stages at present and I will confirm as we get closer. (R.G.)

News Date August 2007

Mick Ward (Ex Ch/Eng) Mick has requested that if anyone - accidentally picked up his prized LOF Blazer Badge which he has had for 31 years, from the Memorabilia Stand, to return it via myself and we would both be grateful. (R.G.)

News Date August 2007

Three Wiser Ex R/O's
Dudley Fry R/O 1950's/60's & 70's
Bob Bruce R/O 1960's/70's & 80's
Roy Gerstner R/O 1970's/80's
& 90's

Thank You Once More....