2008
Updates 
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News Date Nov 2008
Dave Meare
(Ex Rad/Off) As usual I have checked the
web site and something crossed my mind while looking at all the phone
numbers and telegraphic addresses. There is in fact one missing and I
suppose that while some may have forgotten it, others have never heard of
it. 'URGLOF London W1.' It was, as you may imagine, for those out of office hours catastrophes where senior management awareness, support or complicity was required. Whilst in some cases such messages could be quite explicit in stating their requirements, others had to seem quite innocuous and rely on the delivery address to prompt careful reading between the lines. Obviously "I am about to create an international incident please make smoke" would have given the game away. My normal retirement date now looms large on the horizon and 3 weeks from today will be my last working day aged 64. I've been offered continuing employment from that date onwards but I asked for it to be limited to a 3 day week. They've agreed, but were a bit stingy and insisted on reducing my pay. Still it is not so bad, I'll only be working Tue/Wed/Thu each week from then on, so if I take those three days as holiday any time, I'll get an 11 day break from work. I'll need to get Sat Nav just in case I forget where the office is. That Silver Wedding thing is approaching and falls next Tuesday. I really must remember to get Val a card this weekend. We've a modest day's events set up but we never got round to agreeing a holiday destination. I blame the airlines. Barbara and John Thake have sent us some lovely flowers to mark the occasion, so that probably reduces the need for me to do too much. Take Care, Dave Bob Stinchcombe..... Bob is getting to be the Hospitals best customer, he has now had his right knee joint replacement carried out and is on the road to recovery, this one appears to have gone better than the previous one. Margaret is chief chauffer and general dogs-body..... Gwyn Howells - Bob informs me is still suffering from the car accident earlier this year, compounded by what has happened in a previous accident, Di Walker - Is keeping well. Rod Tarbuck - is in hiding as I heard a whisper..... Taxman and Customs & Excise are ???........ | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Nov 2008
Sandra Elliott
Bit of sad news I'm afraid,
just had a phone call last night to let me
 know
that Sandra had just passed away after a long period coping with cancer
treatment.
I assume it was from her son who I
had met during my visits to her while biking, hadn't been about her way
since last year I only wish he had of told me she was bad earlier and
would of made an effort to get to see her.
The funeral is next Tuesday 11:15 at
Rocker Methodist Church, I will be attending and more than likely Pete
Staddon, will send condolences from all of the LOF squad.
Regards Mal. (Malcolm Cuthbert)
Rocker Methodist Church | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Nov 2008
Gerard David Hunter - The Morel
Shipping Co 1954
  I
am extremely grateful for Gerard finding LOF News. If readers are aware of
the history of Welsh Overseas Freighters, the Morel family was the
originator company which became part of Gibbs Shipping by business and by
marriage. Gerald Hunter served his time at the Doxford Engine works, on
completion of his apprentiship, like many young men decided to go to sea. He
joined the 'M.v. Jersey Mist' as a 21 year old Jnr/Eng in Sunderland
on the 07th January 1954 - the maiden voyage - the vessel only took 6 weeks
to fit out. The Master was CaptTodman, the Ch/Eng was Jeff Hall, the Rad/Off was Morrison (a Marconi man), all crew were Indian. The Engineering Superintendent was Mr. Pearson. They set  off
to Casablanca for phosphates, and tramped for the next 16 months. A few
weeks at home then joined the 'M.v. Jersey Dawn' (a Pickersgill
built ship), as 4th/Eng, the Ch/Eng was Slightholm and the 2nd/Eng
was Gordon Hughes, Gerard was promoted during the voyage to 3rd/Eng.
9 months later the ship was sold and was given the name of 'Jalagovind'.
Shipping was going through yet another down-turn, and this was the end as
far as direct ownership for the Morels. Gerard did another couple of trips,
eventually ending on the 'Daltonhall', a vessel owned by the
West Hartlepool Steam Navigation Co. (Famous for being the last shipping
company to build ships with an open wheelhouse - 20 years after enclosed
wheelhouses were the norm). With little prospects of jobs at sea in 1958 and
a young lady waiting, he went back to Doxford, which eventually became
Sunderland Shipbuilders. Gerard Hunter is 75 years old, has just celebrated
50 years of marriage, he has 4 children. Still lives in the Sunderland area. | ||||||||||||||||
 News
Date Nov 2008
 Tom
Hughes (Ex Eng/Cadet - 3rd
Eng) 44 today and in good shape, Tommy now works as an Engineer on a Static
Tanker in the North Sea. He was when joining LOF a pretty mature apprentice
at the age of 25. Very studious - after LOF days went back to University and
gained a fistful of qualifications - he went on to work for a British Rail
contractor. He resumed his sea legs once more about 4 years ago and enjoys 2
weeks onboard and 3 weeks off - that is 'weeks' not months?
Married to Pat they have 3 children aged
9, 6 and 5 - Tom is away at present but phones most nights - Happy Birthday,
and long may Everton hope to win a football game at sometime .(Tom was an
avid supporter) | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Nov 2008
Adrian Cook
Adrian remains at
Corus/British Steel in Middlesbrough where he has
 
 worked
since leaving LOF for some 25+ years now. His first trip to sea was on the 'London Pioneer' and 2nd trip was in 1975 on the 'Victore' (Thanks to John Taggart for the photo) The final picture taken last year at our LOF get-together in South Shields. | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date Nov 2008
As of today
05th Nov Provisional Tie Orders = 22 The minimum I can order is 36, therefore unless there are any further orders, we shall have to abandon this project.
John Taggart..... served my time with Clarke Chapman-John
Thompson nuclear power group, then Joined LOF
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News Date Nov 2008
News from Hull..... Gordon Lazarus, Good to hear from Gordon, that
he is keeping fairly well, although he has
 recently
been diagnosed with diabetes, at present it seems under control. At 77 his
is still driving a school bus around and keeps his psv licence. During and
after LOF days, Gordon would drive luxury touring coaches. On one occasion,
he turned up outside of Capt Owen Connor house in Church Stretton with a
load of OAP's all wanting to use the toilet - neither Connor or Mrs was very
happy about this, however Gordon reminded Capt C, that on numerous alcohol
fuelled occasions he had 'been invited to drop by any time old boy for a
cuppa', although Gordon wasn't expected to bring along 50+ elderly folk
- Capt Owen Connor (RIP) he was reputed to have a ships lifeboat as a feature in his garden. | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Nov 2008
 Here is the promised picture, of Gordon Emmerson celebrating his 90th birthday - 'down at club' - with thanks to Alf Rutherford on the right for sending me the photo..... Alf is recovering pretty well after a stroke, and the docs have allowed him to drive again. Gordon packed up
driving a few years ago.....
This weekend I attended a conference
on behalf of the Police Authority in Stratford Upon Avon, my thanks to
Bob Pople who invited me in for a break in my journey.
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 News Date Oct 2008
Trivia
News from 1945 I
found your address at the foot of the page onwww.lof-news.co.uk and also discovered that you have an interest in the Counties Management site also. With regard to the attached cutting do you have any further information about this event and also do you have any information regarding the change of name to Finnamore Hill. Did this occur in Singapore? Yours faithfully, T H Connell Edinburgh The story of a court case regarding the illegal selling of NAFFI supplies in Singapore 1945, when the Master of the 'Sam Freedom' a Wilfred Perrin was sentenced to 12 months rigorous imprisonment for his part in the 'money making venture. The vessel was brought under Counties Management in or around 1947 and was renamed 'Finnamore Hill' and I dare say Counties & pool personnel were placed onboard. Little has changed a great deal with the 'profiting' of ships supplies to eagerly awaiting shore persons and/or customs officials?. | ||||||||||||||||
News
Date Oct 2008
Noris Jackson..... In extremely
good health and fitness I hear, just chopped down 4 Laylandii trees on the
morning of his 76th birthday. Still active in his workshop and shed, which
has no telephone and wife Janet has a 'Bell' from the 'Overseas Adventurer'
hanging by the back door, gives the clapper a good few dings to get the
attention of NJ and almost takes
 the
ear off the person waiting on the telephone. Son Simon is still
Superintending, he has two children a girl aged 7 and a boy aged 18 months.
Noris still rides a motorcycle - a Yamaha on a good day, and of course still
has his beloved Bentley.Noris Jackson with John Ireland at the 2007 LOF Reunion. | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date Oct 2008
Maybe someone is interested in a model from this gentleman who contacted me.
See his website for further details..... My name is Mr. Gisle Langard and I live in Norway.. I googled your homepage on the internet. I have made about 20 models of former Texaco ships from - 65, built in Fredrikstad, Norway. I did sail on this ship in the - 80's and have gain new interest in this nice ships. If you are interested in this one or want to build another Tex-ship please contact me. The price for Texaco Belgium 80cm long model will be about 165 £ + shipping. Best regards, Gisle Langard Daystar Products e-post: info@modellskip.no Web: www.modellskip.no | ||||||||||||||||
News
Date Oct 2008 Brian
Nicholls.......Now well past
his 'Bus Pass' entitlement, Brian remains very active, he has an
order book well into 2010 for his 'Steam Engine' project work. He is still
and an able Motorbiker - 4 bikes, 3 for him and one for the Mrs, although
with being such a poor summer they only clocked a few miles this year..... Brian was another successful LOF Engineer, who saw his time from being a Junior Engineer all the way through to Chief Engineer | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Oct 2008
Congratulations..... Gordon
Emmerson, who will be 90 years 'young' on Wednesday
.JPG) 22nd
October. Gordon enjoys good health and considering his younger days as a
smoker is mobile and fit. He is 'off' on another intrepid Nile Cruise at the
beginning of November.Gordon is as far as I am aware our most senior 'Living' LOF associate, when he joined LOF in 1952, he came from cargo ships, where he was paid £12/month, on joining Tankers in LOF his pay went up to £30/month. I sent a card to him on behalf of us all, and will be sending a case of either Tennents or Newcastle Brown for the big day. I understand his nephew is organising a small get-together and Alf Rutherford will be going along with the Newkie Brun Ale to help the celebration along. I am sure we all wish Gordon a very Happy Day with many more to come.  Connie
Gerstner, celebrating her 25 years of 'continuous service at
Peterborough District Hospital. She began her Nursing Career in December
1972 as a student nurse at Warrington General Hospital. She came to
Peterborough to complete her Midwifery training in 1976, when she met 'yours
truly'?She was promoted to Ward Sister in 1988 and is the Senior Ward Manager (still a hands on - working position) of the 'Stroke Unit' at Peterborough NHS Trust. In our early married days, she did a number of trips away with us in LOF and made a good few friends, and with the job situation for Seafarers, she has remained in full time nursing since 1983. Here she is being presented with her 'long service 25 year award' from Mary Bird - Assistant General Manager. We were away on holiday when the award ceremony actually took place. She is retiring 03rd November 2010  Roy
Gerstner..... Last week whilst at the Conference for the Standards Board
for England, as an Independent Appointed Member of the Standards Committee
for Cambridgeshire and Fenland, I was elected onto the Committee and panel.Since my enforced retirement, I have taken up several positions - always as 'Independent' and without political bias or alignment. I am involved local Law and Order, Environmental Projects, Custodial and Prisons, Health & Education. I enjoy an excellent relationship with most of the local and county politicians, irrespective of their political views. Here is myself and Councillor Mark Archer from Fenland District Council at the ICC in Birmingham earlier this week. Later this month I will attend on behalf of Cambridgeshire Police Authority a conference to be held in Stratford Upon Avon. The saying is.....give a busy man another job, the chances are he will do it. I had contact from Mike Cuff today who informs me he is keeping well and out of mischief, on becoming Personnel Manager with LOF, his first appointee was cadet to be Martin Littlewood, who went on and became a Master in LOF. | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Oct 2008
Good Days..... John Aspin
sends the following picture from 1964 I was serving on the 'Overseas Courier'. Front row sitting down John Aspin, Centre the 2nd Engineers wife Right the 2nd Engineer (Name unknown) Standing in the back is the 2nd Mate with the 'Hat' on. Can anyone name these people. Of course it was an honour to wear one of the bands hats - except it cost you a round of drinks for the band members - still if you were lucky enough you also got to conduct the band, not that they took a great deal of notice of your abilities as Bandmaster? (J.A.) | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date Oct 2008
News from the NE.....
As Malcolm Cuthbert mentions on the
messageboard, he and a few of the lads meet up fairly regularly, here is the
latest picture taken
Jack Knowles would probably have turned up
were it not for the fact he was in hospital with a broken hip that I
eventually found out about yesterday after numerous calls to his house,
will probably call and see him tomorrow. I am still having bother with
my shoulder but the surgeon tells me there not much else he can do
without causing probably more damage so I am just going to have to grin
and bear it so to speak.
All the best Malcolm. | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Oct 2008
Brian Ashby.....It
is with great regret that I have to inform you of the death of Brian,
 aged
67, there will be an update on the Obituary section in a day or so. Brian
and Gill attended the 2004 LOF Reunion but he became unwell shortly after.
Throughout his illness Brian never complained and he passed away peacefully
on the 24th September. Our thanks to Jean Kirkham who attended the
cremation on our behalf.Brian & Gill lived in St. Mars sur Colmont Brittany France He enjoyed the finishing off project of the large property they had bought in retirement, they also enjoyed keeping retired 'Greyhound Dogs' | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Sept 2008
Edgar Morton.....
Passed away I understand earlier this year. Born on the 01st
 January
1922, 'Polly' was one of the great characters/story tellers from an era long
since forgotten about. When I was visiting Southampton in October 2006 he
invited me over for an afternoon.Taken from LOF 2006 'He has had his fair share of medical problems, and is in and out of hospital fairly regularly. He still drives, but had to give up his BMW when the insurance company wanted some UK£3,000 a year! He drives something a bit smaller and only goes a short distance to the Supermarket and the Betting Shop. He lost his wife 14 years ago, and has given up keeping exotic birds, but now has a small dog and 4 fish tanks. His memory is extremely sharp and can still tell a good story of old. ' Earlier this week I sent out a printed version of LOF News to the Associates who are not web connected, Polly being one, I had tried on a couple of occasions to phone him, but the number was not accepting my own. The family who are in his house in Verwood contacted me and told me this sad news. I will make some enquiries after we return from own next vacation in Minorca. Ed had a couple of Sisters but no children of his own. | ||||||||||||||||
News Date Sept 2008
LOF Ties..... See below.
Scripting to make an order page has become difficult.
Therefore I'll do it the old fashion way.... If you are interested in
purchasing a tie similar to the official LOF ones, please
contact
me and I will build up an order list. We need
somewhere in the region of 50 to make the exercise worthwhile.I would like to close this project by mid-November, that way if we have enough interest - an order could be placed hopefully for a Christmas delivery. | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date Sept 2008
Danny McCallum
(Ex LOF Rad/Off) Just a note to
let you know that Dudley read in the Shell Pensioners magazine that
Danny McCallum passed away on 5th July aged 68. He apparently was
with LOF before going to Shell as E/EO and was a good friend of Dudleys for
many years.
Regards Lynne and Dudley Fry
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News Date Sept 2008
Congratulations.... Bob & Margaret
Stinchcombe celebrating their
53rd Wedding Anniversary, Bob still making regular visits to various
hospital wards, being put back together - golf frustration seems to be the
main complaint? Happy Birthday.... Arthur Finney Looking well Arthur..... Eric Neville.... You will have
seen on the messageboard some history from Eric, he was as far as most of us
concerned the most important man in the Office.....he saw we got paid!.
After doing 2 years in the Army Pay Corps, he joined LOF in 1951 aged 20, he
had to buy a new suit for the interview....still got the job which lasted
some 33 years so not a bad investment. He worked alongside Les Mills who was
Personnel Manager, they were located on the 3rd floor of Balfour Place. Eric
tells that the office was pretty spartan both in people and furniture. As
mentioned he has contact with Eric Knight and I am hoping to make contact
shortly, another contact is Malcolm Waterfall who is nearing 90 years old,
again hope some news coming. In a few days be placing a link.....to
a pre-order interest form. If anyone can find somewhere cheaper/reliable, then please I am more than welcome for the information. (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date Sept 2008
What with school holidays and the very poor weather we have had this summer
in East Anglia, not a great deal of updates or news I am sorry to report.
One of my locals said to me "what's wrong with the weather" I like it? -
typical Fen Bogtrotter...... Anyway I had a short e-mail from Mr Ivor Dobrin... 
 I found your website by accident. In 1946 I was employed by the C.SM
(Counties Ship Management) for over two years, I worked in the cabin
department and worked by on the 'Dover Hill' and 'Tower
Hill' and sailed on the 'Empire Mandarin' 'Mill Hill',
'Stanford Hill' and 'Coomb Hill' and several years later
on the 'Arundel Coulouthros' and my father Mr.
J. Dobrin was a catering super
at that period.My Father, was a relieving chief steward Arundel Hill - Arundel Coulouthros Ivor Dobrin 1944 (1945) then in 1946, he was a catering super, until 1948, when he sadly passed away. He, got involved with C.SM., through working for Lambert Bros, Temple ships as relief Ch. Steward, in the later war years. I, went to sea in 1944, but on foreign ships, 2 Swedes, Panamanian, Greeko and a Dutchman, then I worked on the Dover Hill, my father was the Ch/Stwd. I was one of the cabin boys. It was in dry dock in Birkenhead. Attach, Dis. Book photo, before I joined the Arundel Hill. Regards IVOR.  Some friends at 'Union Castle sent me the following advert which was regular within the newspaper industry of the 1950's, this one is dated 1954 First Class (real
first class) return Southampton - Cape Town all for £150 real £'s)
I am being kept well busy since my enforced early retirement, being none-politically aligned but interested in what's happening locally, my declaration of interests now:
1/ Independent Appointed Member & Vice Chairman -
Standards Committee Fenland District Council.
2/ Independent Appointed Custody Visitor - Cambridgeshire Police Authority. 3/ Independent Appointed Chairman - Whittlesey Community Police Panel. 4/ Treasurer Street Pride - A Fenland Environmental Initiative. Another break/holiday in a short while to see if we can find the elusive sunshine we have been so short of this year - this time to the Island of Menorca..... (R.G.) ps, although like many others I am getting fed up of the phrase 'credit crunch' I am very unhappy to report that there are already Christmas items for sale and canned tinkering Christmas carols are playing....enough to make me stay away...... | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date Sept 2008
Happy Birthday - Mike Cuff
who has just turned 81, he is keeping well and still driving his beloved
BMW. Bob Stinchcombe is waiting to have a cataract done in the near future, he is also hoping the new consultant will be giving him a new knee joint replacement before Christmas, so holidays are on hold at present. Bob informs me that Dai Walker is keeping well and in good spirits, Gwyn Howells is still in a neck brace and suffering from the recent car accident they were involved in - she had previously been involved in another accident a few years ago, which affects are complicating the recent injury, Mick is having to do all the domestics?. | ||||||||||||||||
News Date August 2008
News from the Northern
Territories.... Andy Dow
Just an update of
how things
 are
in sunny Darwin.
Janice and l are really enjoying the life
out here and the girls have really taken to the Aussie way of life. Lana, my
"oldest" twin is returning to Edinburgh to take her Phd soon, so l expect
her to be away for 6 months.
My "youngest twin" has set up her own
practice in Darwin specialising in the treatment of reptiles of all
things. Guess she has been reading my memoires of my times with Denholm
Ship Management, ha-ha. I go down to Adelaide at times to visit my
brother and have some good times fishing the Murray River where huge
carp is in abundance, they are classed as vermin here and if you even
catch a small one...no way can you put it back!
Ray Appleyard my old
mate has not taken up my invite as yet to spend a few weeks over here,
but l hope he will accept soon. Also spoke to Mick
Howells, seems his wife is
getting much better, great news!
Hope you and Connie are doing well, and
this website is just brilliant Roy.........thanks very much, and l would
think that l speak for many people. Andy.
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News Date August 2008
Ron Todd.....
Hope your keeping
well, we intended to visit a friend in Bedford and
 call
in to see you, but
had to cancel as
Audrey was waiting for a cataract operation, luckily she had it done last
Wednesday, but we found out the other eye is badly scared it would serve no
purpose having it done, so now I'm looking around for somewhere nice for
holiday to help cheer her up.
I've started a get fit campaign, joined a rambling group now walk 6 to 8
miles a day, so far I've shed over a stone. Hope your ankle is
improving. All the best.
Audrey & Ron.
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News Date August 2008
More News from down under.... Valerie
& I were looking through some old photographs when we came across one of the
original London Pride, sailing into Boston, Mass. in December 1950 on her
maiden voyage, Capt Fox was in command with Williamson as makee learnee
tanker Master.
I was in the last year of my apprenticeship on the 'Stamford Hill',
fourteen months out and due to go to Newport News to load coal for
Glasgow. Our Master was W. King and he asked me if I would like to
transfer to the Pride, she was sailing with no apprentices at that
time. Whilst the thought of a new ship was enticing, the thought of
getting home was stronger and so thank you but no thanks. Five years
later I transferred to LOF and my first ship the original 'London
Enterprise.'
Greetings from Australia, a bit cold these days so looking forwards
to our summer
All best wishes to any of the older Counties and LOF fraternity.
Geoff Baskerville.
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News Date August 2008
More News from Julie Peek
regarding her Grand-father Captain
Eric Arnold Peek. See below.....
Arnold Peek in 1917 HMS Zoraide around 1917 Became a 'Counties' - Master Alan Shard informs us :
The uniform is a Lt. in the RNR (Royal Naval Reserve) The intertwined
gold braid signifies he came from the Merchant Navy and/or Fishing Fleet
was probably the First Lt. below the Captain sometimes known as 'Jimmy
the One'. The insignia on the left upper arm is not discernable. Regards
Alan
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News Date August 2008
News from Australia.... Len &
Sheila Eckermann. Things not too well for Brain Taylor
(Ex Ch/Eng) as he had a stroke about three weeks back. He in now in rehab
and making good progress. Can walk with a frame and still talk but misses
some of the words. We can see an improvement each time we see him and he is
very positive about it. It is a year since we were in the UK. how fast time goes. We are both well and planning another trip, this time to India. Regards Sheila & Len | ||||||||||||||||
News Date August 2008
Sheila & Simon Corner.
During a long weekend away to the Norfolk
Broads,
 Connie
& I were very pleased to meet with Sheila, in Coltishall Norfolk, her
husband was Ian Corner, who passed away very untimely in June 1996 at
the young age of only 52 from prostrate cancer. Sheila made us very welcome
and informed us that her son Simon has recently married Ruth (July), they
are both youth workers and Simon has got a placement in Muswell Hill (Good
Luck). Sheila is keeping well and does some voluntary work with the local
National Trust. Ian was a very respected and liked friend in LOF, originally
an Electrical Officer, he studied and was promoted to Electrical &
Electronics Officer in the early 80's, he was a keen sportsman - rugby and
cycling his favourites but enjoyed the slow life in Norfolk during his
leave.Sheila produce a portrait of Ian done in 1981 by none other that Captain Rodman Tarbuck, this is a bit of a turn up, as 'Tarbie' lays claim to many attributes but portraits has been a bit of a secret to many of us. Anyway a very pleasant turn up it was. I am sure we wish Simon and his new wife Ruth best wishes, as I and many others, heard Ian talk at some length of how proud he was of his son. I'm sure the likeness of the 'Tarbie' portrait and Son can be easily seen. 
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News Date
August 2008 Stuart (Anthony) Booth)
Roy, I have been so interested reading your LOF news
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News Date August 2008
Julie Peek I have
been researching my great grandfather Captain Eric Arnold Peek. I knew that
he was decorated in WW1 with the DSC & Bar for "good u-boat work" and that
he was the master of several large boats. But that has been the extent of
my knowledge.
However, I have just come across his executor's
statement from his Will. He died on 27th May 1946. There is a note:
 "We are informed by
the testator's Wife, Mrs A. B. Peek that the deceased incurred no
debts and that the funeral expenses were disbursed by his Employers
the Counties Ship Management Company Ltd., who did not wish to be
reimbursed therefore."
If any of the above information means anything to
you, then I will be happy to send you copies of the photos.
Best regards Julie Peek jspeek@tesco.net
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News Date August 2008
Martin Littlewood
(Ex Nav/Cad - Master) Has recently
visited the UK on various courses which his company 'VELA' support him with
nearly every leave, he and wife Erica are still enjoying life based in
Worcester North of Cape Town in South Africa. Martin has recently invested
in a weekend home on the SA coast. Martin is 57 and he plans to retire at
61. John Peters (Ex Nav/Cad - Master) recently picked up the article below about the coastal ferry 'Oldenburg' with Ex LOF Ch/Eng Steve Roberts. John and wife Julia have had a holiday in Wales, where they enjoy the walking and John with his dog. He is busy at present helping his brothers in Devon with the harvest. Alec Priestley (Ex Jnr/Eng - 3rd/Eng) At 70+++ has two part time jobs still and is kept busy most of the year. He is keeping well and fit and has befriended a new lady. His motorbiking days are over but still enjoys the occasional classic bike race or hill climb.
Ron Mortimer (Ex 3rd/Off - Master) | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date August 2008
Stephen Roberts
(Ex Eng/Cad - Ch/Eng)
Many thanks to John Peters | ||||||||||||||||
News Date August 2008
Dave Meare
(Ex Rad/Off) Well the romantic trip to
Rome that I had been cornered
 into
taking got pushed back in the year due to our son's globe-trotting. Then
when he came home it was further delayed because he was at home.Eventually we agreed that as he is leaving for University on the 18th September, we'd set off shortly after that. I was resigned to my fate, but as luck would have it my wife's best friend has just returned from Rome with reports of how awful she'd found it to be. Fortunately her opinions are respected, whereas mine are just an indication that I'm up to something. So Val has now decided that it would ruin a wonderful memory if we were to revisit the place and come back thinking it was awful. I thought Yippee, but decided to keep calm and just agree. We're going to go somewhere else instead and I'm sure I'll be a lot happier about it wherever it is. My anticipated retirement at the age of 65 has also gone out of the window as I've been offered continuing employment working three days a week. That sounds okay to me and I have agreed to do it for a year and then review it again. Dave Meare (I've had 4 friends visit Rome in the last year or so....don't know what is happening , but they were all robbed or mugged - R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
News
Date July 2008
Cederholm Family
Wedding of Heidi Cederholm to Paul Burgess,
As promised a
 picture
of the happy couple plus our little grandson Harry.
The wedding was a civil ceremony at the "Suites
Hotel" Liverpool where Heidi and Paul tied the knot!
They honeymooned in Portugal and Harry spent the week
with myself and Barbara at our holiday home in North Wales. We are now
in need of a week's holiday to recover.
Heidi last featured in the LOF News in winter 1983 in
a photo of Barbara and Heidi with our then newly born son David.
Keith is still gainfully occupied teaching  navigation
at a local sailing school, and Barbara is a supply teacher.LOF Picture of 1983 | ||||||||||||||||
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News Date July 2008
Bill
Cameron
.. I was very sad to read in the
obituary column the sad passing of “Ginger Tom” or Tom March as was his
proper name. I had the pleasure of sailing with Tom around 1969-70 on
the “Victore” and as your article said he was a “grafter”. Tom
was never intended to be a chief engineer but he was a good hands on
engineer and worth his weight in gold if we had any breakdowns or urgent
work to be done in port. I too served my apprenticeship in a shipyard as
a marine engineer (Hall Russell in Aberdeen) and straight away we hit it
off together. We used to have a laugh when we talked about some of the
other engineers we had sailed with who had served an apprenticeship with
people like Singers Sewing Machines. Please pass on my condolences to
his family. I am sorry I did not know about this earlier as it a year
this month since his death. On a brighter note through the LOF
news I was contacted by Eric Drinkwater who I had sailed with on
the 'London Craftsman' in 1969. Eric originally from the
Manchester area has been living in Australia for a number of years but
he is coming home for a visit to the UK in September and he is coming up
to spend a couple of days with me in Aberdeen on the 12th and
13th. Cheers and keep up the good work. | ||||||||||||||||
News Date July 2008
Alf Rutherford
(Ex Elect/Off) Found out by accident that
he had suffered 3 mini
 strokes,
although on the mend - he says after a couple of beers his voice goes like
'Donald Duck' Alf 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. Alf has just turn 73 recently. He keeps in touch with 89 year old ex 2nd Eng Gordon Emmerson who will be 90 in October. I understand that Gordons nephew is arranging a bit of a party, so closer the time I'll organise a case of the Newcastle Brown or Tennents to celebrate the event on our behalf of us all..... Bill McGuire (Ex
Eng Supt) Happy birthday to Bill who has celebrated his 77th....Bill started
his seagoing career
Gwyn & Mick in happier times..... | ||||||||||||||||
|
Did you hear Ben Fogle making an Appeal for the Sailors' Society on BBC Radio 4 last Sunday? If you missed it, fear not, you can listen to it via the BBC’s website: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/religion/radio4appeal.shtml Otherwise, it will be repeated on Thursday 24th July at 3.27pm
Ben is able to
understand life at sea and the isolation felt by seafarers having rowed
the Atlantic with Olympic Gold-medallist James Cracknell. He also
experienced isolation on the remote Scottish island of Taransay for the
BBC millennium project Castaway 2000. BBC Radio 4 frequency is 92.5 – 94.8 fm depending upon where you live. Sailors’ Society 023 8051 5950
Sailors’ Society 350 Shirley Road SOUTHAMPTON Hampshire SO15 3HY | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date July
2008 Mavroleon Family ? My brother and I
found our selves living in Southern Rhodesia a British colony, now
Zimbabwe, not knowing how we came to have our surname and with not one
other Mavroleon family in the country. All our mum knew was that my dad
was born in Mozambique but lived all his life in Rhodesia so for years
we thought it was a Portuguese name. We love our Greek surname and one
day hope to trace my father’s Greek family. I am sorry to learn of John Clark's (Martin) death through your website and wish to express my deepest sympathy on behalf of Lundin Tunisia BV and all the crew of FPSO Ikdam. We were so sorry to hear of John's death. He was such an excellent member of FPSO Ikdam team. He will be remembered not only for his good character, but also for his modesty and openness with all his workmates. He was a thoughtful and kind person, and we are very grateful for the good souvenirs he left on FPSO Ikdam. Please convey our condolences to his family for his loss.
Wissem Chaouach
Safety Officer / FPSO Ikdam
| ||||||||||||||||
News Date July 2008
Hans R. Niclasen
hr565@post.olivant.fo
 I
am searching for an ancestor of mine, named Carl Woxnæs Hansen,
last heard from with a letter written 15th of August 1946 on board
a ship named 'S/S Ft. la Baye,' in Alexandria, Egypt,
leaving for England. is it possible to get any information about the
ship, many thanks..... Hans
http://fortships.tripod.com
(Acknowledgements to
Angela DeRoy-Jones)
Do any of our Senior Associates have any
further information.... (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
News Date July 2008
David Atkinson.
I
joined the 'London Grenadier' in the East End docks on or about 6th Jan 76 -
in
 fact
I was at Canary Wharf in the offices of a stock broker a few weeks ago and
remarked that the last time I had been in the area was 32 years ago!
I had
recognised the wharf but certainly not the area! That was my first ship
- In fact I recall whenever I see the opening credits of East Enders. I
left the 'Grenadier' in Rotterdam around April 76 I believe (after the
Middle East and Malaysia). I then went out to the Loftanks Holiday camp
to get the 'London Enterprise' ready for action (not totally sure, but
probably June 76). I had thought I would be doing a full trip, but ended
up leaving her at Piraeus. I Joined the 'Shackleford' later that summer
(76) - not quite sure where - going with her to New Orleans then on to
Costanzia before leaving her in Norfolk, VA in sometime in Jan/Feb 77 -
passing through a very frozen Norfolk Bay. I had spent 3 years at HMS
Conway and, following eye-sight problems, had not gone straight to a
deck cadetship after 'O' levels, but ended up on an
David A - centre stage Grenadier Party 1976  Engineering
course at Southampton CAT, having joined LOF in the August/Sep 75. It
was not long before the practical elements of marine engineering (the
size of the nuts and bolts and the difficulty of undoing the chuck on my
lathe to extract a piece of work) confirmed that while I was technically
minded, I was somewhat physically challenged! I retook the BoT New
Entrant eyesight exam and passed, and LOF transferred me straight to
sea. I did have a party trick - A deck cadet who could draw a fully
detailed, cross-sectioned and labelled marine boiler on the dartboard's
scoring panel. As I was also a small deck cadet - when I got to the
Shackleford I was on one occasion loaned to the engineers to clean the
filters in the engine air intakes.
I would
like to say that it was a premonition of the demise of the UK's merchant
fleet that I left my apprenticeship unfinished after my first year at
sea. However, despite having always wanting to get to sea, having got
there I could not see myself pacing the bridge for the next n years.
Since LOF could not offer me a transfer to a Radio Officer cadetship I
left to try and get into the Royal Navy as an Electronics Technician.
However the Navy saw me as a training risk and it was down to the Air
Force to provide me with a career that lasted the next 20 years, from
technician to Communications Officer. I left the RAF in 1997 as a Flight
Lieutenant and Chartered Engineer and one of their few experts (at that
time) in software engineering. I had also been manager and captain of
the RAF College sailing team in only its third victory against Sandhurst
and RNC Dartmouth (a victory won on the basis of seamanship rather than
speed).
I have
achieved a number of things in my life (including a recent PhD in
management) and I set a lot of store by my HMS Conway and LOF days as
contributing to a wider perspective on life!!
Kind
regards.
David
David M Atkinson
CEO
| ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date July 2008
Happy Birthday - Irene Gillie
reaches a memorable milestone, is keeping
ok but still
awaiting
operations for arthritis on her hands. The boat which she and Andrew had in
Holland has now been sold. | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date July 2008 Happy Birthday -
Dave Vincent (70)
Congratulations to Dave on his 70th, he and
Nancy
commute between the UK and South Australia - Summers? in the UK and Winters
in Australia. | ||||||||||||||||
| News Date July 2008 In Memoriam. To our shipmate Tom March who passed away 11th July 2007 sadly missed but never forgotten, thinking of you Tommy - keep smiling - (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date July 2008 Obituary.....
Mam (Norah Sproxton) wife of the late
Arthur Sproxton (Catering Officer) died today aged 78 years. Mam had
cancer for the last year and coped well with the treatment until March when
she became ill. We found out in May the cancer had spread and nothing else
could be done. At least she is now with dad at peace.
Many thanks
Christine Tallintire & Julie Smith (daughters)
09th July 2008 | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date July 2008
Happy Birthday -
Godfrey Nash (59) Joined
LOF in 1972 and remained until 1997 had 10 good years on
cargo
ships, lives in South Wales and does repairs/maintenance/building works.
Separated he has a 20 year old son. Moggsy Caffery - Will be 60 and I dare say eligible for his free bus pass in Milford Haven? | ||||||||||||||||
| News Date July 2008 Mick & Gwyn Howells update (06th July) Just an update on Mike and Gwyn. She is now out of hospital but with neck and spine problems. I believe two discs are out and they do not want to replace them at this time and also there were chips of some others I gather. With a previous spinal problems, the spine is a sensitive area as it is crumbling in places and not a good site to be working on. She has a neck brace on for some time I gather and they will re-assess her in a few weeks time, Mike is now fine after the initial shock and them having to get a helicopter to take her to the hospital. the little MG (not the vintage rebuild one) is a right off of course and they'll be looking for a small car for running around the locality (B.S.) | ||||||||||||||||
| News Date July 2008 Mick & Gwyn Howells.....Just a little poor news, Mike and Gwyn were involved in a traffic Accident early on Tuesday evening (01st). They were stopped behind a Van which had also stopped to turn right, when a car ran into the back of their small MG. Mike was driving and was lucky to escape with shock. Gwyn however had to be airlifted to Morriston Hospital with severe whiplash and back injuries. I got down to see them both later in the evening as soon as I got the news and found Gwyn strapped down with the usual neck-brace and also strapped to the bed. The X/Rays showed a chipped bone on the spine and at the moment they are waiting to see what the Consultants suggest. With her past record of spinal problems, this wasn't required of course. Mike isn't a patient but didn't look too good himself on Tuesday night and the Police were there taking a statement of course. (Bob Stinchcombe) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date July 2008
Hugh Maynard.
(3rd/Off - Ch/Off) Hopefully you
will recall my name from LOF days. I was C/Off on the 'London Victory'
up to handing her over to the Greeks in New York in 1998. Currently I am
Chief Off onboard the Cruise ship 'Thomson Celebration' and the
reason for me writing was due to a Lloyds inspection whilst alongside in
Newcastle last week. The inspector was Don Dunlop who inspired me to
catch up with old LOF colleagues. I was very sad to hear of Martin Clarks
untimely death as we had sailed together numerous times in the past. My own story is that I am still living in the States in Idaho with wife & kid. After LOF I joined up with Cable & Wireless (now Global Marine Systems) and sailed on cable ships up until 2002 when I took voluntary redundancy. I stayed ashore for three years then decided to return to sea and took up with Thomson Cruises. We are cruising out of the UK until the end of the Summer so if you happen to be close to Newcastle or Harwich in the next month Cheers Hugh Maynard | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date June 2008 Happy Birthday -
Alistair Roaf (38) Adrian Latham (42),
Alec Priestley (74) - all
| ||||||||||||||||
News Date June 2008
News from the USA - Steve Melton
(Ex Rad/Off)
I am still living in Corpus Christi at
 same
address. Not doing the turtle patrols this year as there is now too much
federal government BS for me.
| ||||||||||||||||
News Date June 2008
Success from the most wanted - John Blamaires. Sorry I
lost touch but things have
.jpg) been a trifle hectic - to put it mildly!! I would
love to have attended one of the reunions, but I'm always at sea when they
are on!! I remember seeing Trevor Swatton name in the old LOF days,
and knew he had joined RFA but our paths have never crossed - One day. I am
still with RFA and will stay with them as I have only 6 years to retiring
with a civil service pension. This is just a quick line as have to leave in
4 hours time as I am flying out to Rotterdam to take up my first Masters
position (not with RFA!) just got my ticket on the 9th June. Its only for 3
weeks but I need to get my face in the frame again in the commercial world
before I retire from RFA. I'll keep in touch. Best Regards John (John sailed with LOF on two occasions, being made redundant twice. He was 2nd Officer for many years and congratulations on obtaining his Masters Ticket, not sure how old John is but he is mid 50's so he's done well, he had been a commercial truck Sales Manager whilst away from the sea -anyway hope to get some more news from John when he gets sorted and settled) (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
News Date June 2008
What's in a Name?
Derek S was asking about the ship 'London
Exchange',
 unfortunately
I can not find much about this one, I dare say there are some website with
some info on it, however, it was probably a young Stanley Sedgewick -
LOF's accountant in 1951 that aligned ships names beginning with 'London',
for LOF vessels. In order to display the City of London Coat of Arms, he/LOF
made a donation for each crest to the Lord Mayors charity fund, (Not to be
confused with any funds that Ken Livingstone or Boris Johnson might have
going). There was always much debate onboard when the weather worn crest was
removed from the front of the accommodation to be re-painted, in fact there
was several incidents when a very much multi-coloured crest painted with
whatever was left over was spotted by the eagled eyed marine superintendent
- normally 'Clipsham' when utter wrath and an almost keel hauling was
called upon some the poor unfortunate divi-pimply faced apprentice who got
the blame for the errors, so
 much
so that at much expense, a framed colour photograph was supplied to each
vessel, so that no offence was made to his worship - the Lord Mayor or to
the City of London.'Bowring SS Co' had a ship called the 'London Bridge' (1967) (28467 GRT) Here is a 'young' Pete Collins (RHS) with the Cassab on the London Resolution In the 1960's (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date June 2008
Paul Stephenson, (J/Eng -
4th/Eng) Paul served his time with ICI. He was one of three Engineers
that Noris Jackson interviewed together (He told them they
would'nt need much in the way of personal items when joining a ship, one
of them joined for a 6 month trip with just a small overnight case....
and quickly realised that a few more 'personal' items were required,
fortunately the ship was in and out of port regularly and he spent a
tidy sum getting himself more comfortable?) | ||||||||||||||||
News Date June 2008
Alan Nicholls
Has been in the off-shore sector since
LOF days and sails as Ch/Eng
 on
stand-by vessels for North Star in the North Sea. He works 1 month on/1
month off. He and Marie recently had a visit to France and whilst there
went to see Jean Kirkham. Jean is keeping well and work on her conservatory
is making progress, Jean has plenty of garden to occupy herself along with a
few chickens. (A.N.)Alan & Jean in May 2008 Alan in 1980 | ||||||||||||||||
| News Date June 2008 Success from the most wanted - Frank Warmsley (Ex J/Eng - 3rd/Eng) Frank served his time with 'English Electric' - became GEC from 1950 and stayed until 1960. He did a brief spell on the coast with Everards during the winter of 1961 and was sick of the weather. He Joined LOF - his first ship 'Finnamore Valley' in 1961 the Master was Newson and Ch/Eng was Robson. Frank sailed on most types of vessels and was seconded to the Greek side for a couple of trips. His final voyage was on the 'London Baron' Jacobs was the Master and Grahame Morrison was the Chief, they paid off on the 3rd February 1983, came home and was made redundant. After a short spell Frank got a position with Manchester City Council as a maintenance engineer and remained with them until he retired at the age of 65. He will be 73 in September, never married and managed without driving, he lives in the Preston area of the UK. (Our thanks to Dave Corbin who found Frank) (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
News Date June 2008
James Martyn Dowling
(J/Eng - 3rd/Eng 1969 - 1976) Really
fantastic to find Martyn after all this time, he is the 3rd Survivor of the
'Valour' tragedy we have contact with... here is his message. When
I looked through your site it brought back a whole lot of memories, mostly
good.
I served my time at the GKN
steelworks in Cardiff, emerging after four years as a
welder/fabricator. They then stuck me on shift work which I hated
and so when I saw an advert for LOF asking for Junior Engineers with
ANY formal apprenticeship I thought I'd give it a go. Forty years
(nearly) later I'm still trying to decide if I made the right
decision!
The first ship I joined was the
ill-fated 'London Valour' at St. Nazaire (19/12/69) and the Master
was the same one who unfortunately went down with the ship (Muir?).
Obviously I lost all the paperwork along with everything else. After
this I was placed on the London Resolution, maiden voyage of the
London Pride where I was permanent until I got totally fed up with
it (beautiful ship but sooooo boring), then the Bombardier and so
on.
3.The last ship I sailed on with LOF was
the London Pioneer and I left that some time late November/early
December 1976 in Sicily when it was sold to the Chinese as scrap I
believe.
James Martyn Dowling in 1974  Since
then I have worked for (deep breath):-
Souters, Bristol Channel Steam Navigation
Company, Stolt Tankers, M O C., Havertons, Sea-Land, Maersk, U.E.C.C.
Now E. R. Schiffahrt.
I didn't get my C/E CoC until I was in my
late thirties, that is after I made all my mistakes with the previous
companies! so until I started with Sea-Land I was still 2/E. The job
today is nothing like working for a dedicated British company like LOF.
Now it is very rare to find another British officer in the company let
alone actually sailing with one. Mostly we have ex-Soviets (Lithuanian,
Latvian, Ukraine, real Russians, Croatians, Rumanian, Bulgarian), Polish
of course and still mostly Filipino crews' social life is generally nil
and time in port to relax is almost unheard of. On the plus side the
trips are quite short, pay is in Euros and in a few years I'm packing it
in anyway and if the company agrees I'll still do two relieving jobs
(about four months) every year.
I now live (past 20 odd years) in
Coventry. About the only person I still keep in touch with from LOF is
Godfrey Cole,(3/O, 2/O, C/O) who is now head honcho of Bristol
Channel Pilots.
Thanks very much for keeping this site
going and if there is any one from the old days who wishes to get in
contact please give them my e-mail address. I hadn't seen or heard from
Meurig Caffery since returning home with him but I did meet 2/E from the
Valour when he was a superintendent for Wallems - nice guy.
Please find attached a piccie of me
(looking spiffy the wife says) taken this year.
Thanks again and keep in touch, J. Martyn
Dowling (J/Eng ,4/Eng ,3/Eng with LOF,69 - 76)
(R.G. - Martyn and I sailed together on the 'London Bombardier 1974) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date June 2008
Happy Birthday - Nigel Lewis,
(44) Nigel is Ch/Eng on the Stenna - Irish fast ferry
Holyhead
- Ireland route, he tells me that things are getting tight, as they are on
slow speed in order to economise on fuel bills, maybe after the peak summer
season they will go to one crossing per day, instead of the normal two.
(DFDS Seaways, have also
closed a route. They took over the loss-making route between Tyneside and
Bergen-Haugesund-Stavanger in 2006, said rising oil prices and the economic
slowdown have damaged the route's viability.) Nigel and Annwen
have two sons aged 10 & 11 and are full of sports activities - Nigel being
Chief Taxi driver. (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
| 31st May Messageboard back online again..... | ||||||||||||||||
| News Date May 2008 Brian Ashby. Is feeling much better lately, he is on medication and sounds a lot more positive, he is doing some daily jobs and drives ok. He and Gill live in a nice area of Normandy France and keep a retired greyhound. (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
Alan Huddart. (Ex Rad/Off) I was the Radio Officer aboard ss
Cedar Hill from November 1963 until February 1965. What a chapter of
events it turned out to be after initially almost being Shanghaied on to the
ship The most famous or infamous event was when we appeared in most of the
British press but mostly in the London evening Standard and Star. This
followed an absolute beating by the most vicious storm I experienced in my
whole sea career. That particular voyage from Cuba to Poland is a story in
itself but at this stage I wont go into details. I have been trying to write
some sort of 'recollections' about my life at sea, but haven't done very
well so far I'm afraid. I have a picture of the old girl whose name
originally was the 'Dentonia Park'. It was taken in Marseille
harbour taken in September 1964.
Just as a final thing, I ended my working career as a R/O at
Portishead Radio for 25 years or more.
Cheers Alan Huddart
Mick Ward. (49) Haven't heard from Mick since his LOF Blazer
Badge was lifted by someone at the LOF Reunion last year, I did
manage to get him another - but I dare say he was attached to his
own.Mick Howells. (61) Enjoying his retirement, golf and restoring his car. He and Gwyn have had a visit from Barbara March who stayed with them for a few days, Barbara is keeping well I hear, and son David is back at sea with BP. Bob Stinchcombe is still in the wars, visiting and being in and out of hospital for a number of issues, his knee is still causing him problems and he awaits for an operation, he and Margaret are off again for some sunshine in Tenerife in the next week or so. Bob informs me that Di Walker is on the mend and has been in much better shape recently.. | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
Bryan Watkins.
(54) Ex 3rd Off - Master, now sailing
with Saudi - Vela, informs he has
two
expensive daughters to maintain. Barry Moore (67) Ex EEO, has
exported himself to the Philippines with his much younger wife and son after
disillusionment with the UK. Paul Cartwright (62) Ex Cat/Off, still
enjoying a couple of rounds of golf per week - he and Gwen enjoy weekends
away in their Static Mobile Home. In Memoriam. To our shipmate Andrew Gillie who passed away 2 years ago this week. Our thoughts are with Irene and her family. R.I.P. | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
The Welsh Endeavour.....
May we congratulate Carl Tunnicliffe
and particularly Mr. Tunnicliffe senior (A retired Police Officer) for his
near 4 year labour of love - A full scale working model of the 'Welsh
Endeavour' There have been previous photos last year, but I am pleased
to say - this does look a superb job in all respects.
| ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
John Moss Funeral arrangements.....
We have just had a phone call from Marjorie
Moss who said she cannot speak too highly of the care and treatment
given to John - "He was kept totally free of pain right to the
end." Marjorie knows already that all their families in North Wales will
be attending the service, and she did not expect us to attend, and
she fully understands the reason why.
John Moss will be cremated at
The Crematorium between Colwyn Bay and Mochdre at 10
a.m on Thursday 22nd May 2008 Donations please to Aberconwy Ward
Llandudno General Hospital. (Ambrose Jones)
Due to other pre -arranged commitments I am unable to make Colwyn Bay by Thursday, however I will on behalf of the LOF News make a donation in lieu of a wreath to the Llandudno General Hospital. (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
News Date May 2008
Trivia - The Bike - Trike? A couple of people
were asking me about my Bike?, well I
 have
to confess yes I do have a Bike - A motorbike, I've have one since the age
of 16 - this one a BMW circa 1984 bought new, which unfortunately I can not
ride anymore since my operation and sits in the garage gathering dust. Yes I
have also a moped circa 1980 a Honda C70 which is also gathering dust. Yes I
have a bicycle, slightly more modern - gathering dust, and the what must be
the 'ultimate' besides say an antique 'penny farthing is my 'Malaysian -
Trishaw' built circa 1946 and brought back many years ago - and is yet
another object gathering dust? (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
News Date May 2008
Success from the most wanted - David Corbin.
(Ex Rad/Off) Went to Riversdale Tech
 College 1967 and joined his first
ship Bibby Line - 'Quebec City' in 1969 He joined LOF in 1971 first
ship was the 'London Advocate' the Master was Bill Jaeger, last ship
1978 was the 'London Bombardier.' Dave then went for a short spell
with Portishead Radio/GKA and then joined the Lancashire Constabulary as a
Police Officer, he remained with them until retirement in 1998 and still
works with them on an admin basis. Dave has been married to Katherine for
30+ years and they have one son, they live in Lancashire. (Paul Davidson &
R.G.)A young DC DC with wife Kath The Bill Jaeger. (1922 - 1995) Connection.....Please visit
www.findonvillage.com
where there is quite a write up about Bill,
including contact from his daughter. Go to the sub-section Cissbury Ring and
scroll down to the 'Screaming Bill' article. (17-05-08 Website was working
again) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
Tom Bennett.
I am still here in Canada, working hard at a chicken processing
plant. Wife and I are very happy here in Nova Scotia. She did have breast
cancer two years ago, but thankfully came thro surgery and chemo plus
radiation well. Love to check the LOF news you work so hard on please keep
it up. All the best to the rest of the guys from LOF. Tom Bennett.
1973-1984 Paul Davidson.. Still in the lighting business, as apart form navigation (old style with a sextant) do not know much else. Seem to be getting busier as the years go on, either that or I am slower and it appears busier.
Martin has left the sea following an accident whilst
on secondment onboard a BP ship. He came home and the hospital said
recovery would be 6-12months for return to service. Bibby would not wait
and terminated his employment forthwith. Money seems to rule
everything!! He is at college for two years
and the third year at UCLAN university studying a degree in business
studies Looks like I will have to support him a while longer. It would
be superb to reduce the work load and do what Jerry, an old boss of mine
did, move to St Austell overlooking the sea and work 3 days a week. | ||||||||||||||||
| News Date May 2008 John Moss. (Ex Radio Officer) It is with great sadness to announce the passing away of John, who was 83 years old, he had been married to Marjorie for some 56+ years (no children). Went to Sea in 1942, Marconi/Siemens/AEI and LOF in 1957 until 1974 then onto SANKO until ill health retired in 1983. He had several health and stroke issues over the last 25 years, but always had a positive attitude. They lived near Rhos On Sea, Colwyn Bay and enjoyed the sea air. John had cared for his wife for a number of years. Remembers R/O Eric Hill Senior on London Valour, whom relieved him prior to grounding. (Ambrose Jones & R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
Jeannie Tarbuck.
I am pleased to report that Jeannie has had her knee operation, she was in
hospital for 3 days and is making a good recovery, Capt. T. is on
full scale kitchen and bottle washer and is in usual charge. Irene Gillie. Is still awaiting to have operations carried out on her hands. Its almost 2 years since Andrew passed away, the boat which they owned and enjoyed has now been sold. Irene remains in Southend-on Sea and has no plans to move, if she did it would to be closer to her daughters and grand-children. Most Wanted - Lost & Missing..... Ken Thurston, does anyone know the whereabouts of Ken, where did he live? Still looking for John Sage (He would be in his 30's) Glen Samuels (Ex EEO) possibly Plymouth area? Dave Corbin (Rad/Off) - Found Thanks..... see above Frank Walmsley (4th/Eng) - Found Thanks..... see above | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
Dave Blackshaw.
last heard of spending plenty of time away? on Luxury Yachts, Dave renowned
for his 'hollow' legs, worked for a period after LOF days in a large brewery
in Burton On Trent, he told me there were plenty of 'perks' to the job. Ronnie Alexander keeps in touch with Jean Kirkham regularly and manages well on her own after the premature passing away of Ian. Ronnie still works and lives in North Yorkshire. (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date May 2008
In Memoriam.
To our shipmate Jack Kirkham who
passed away 3 years ago in 2005 sadly missed but never forgotten, thinking of you Jack - keep smiling - (R.G.) | ||||||||||||||||
|
News Date April 2008
Keith Pengelly.
(Ex Radio/Off)
I went to college in Plymouth 1964 - 1965 and joined MIMCo Jan 1966.
Did the usual round of companies that they serviced the went direct employ
Oct 1968 Hunter Cambridge Oct 1968 - Nov 1968 Capt Wallace Overseas Ambassador Dec 1968 - Jun 1969 Capt Fox / Wright London Prestige Sep 1969 - May 1970 Capt Brown London Resolution Aug 1970 - Feb 1971 Capt Armstrong/Kemp/ Douglas London Statesman Jun 1971 - Dec 1971 Capt Gordon London Explorer May 1972 - Oct 1972 Capt Jeret London Banker Dec 1972 - Feb 1973 Capt Jeret London Grenadier May 1973 - Oct 1973 Capt O'Conner/Cornish London Cavalier Feb 1974 - Jun 1974 Capt Jaeger London Pride Aug 1974 - Sep 1975 Capt Kemp I left to join P&O General cargo division (they paid better) and stayed with them until 1979. I left the sea when our son was born and got work in a factory for STC. Total brain damage in a factory after 13 years at sea!!! Mercury Communications were recruiting, so went on the road as an installation engineer with them until I took early retirement in 2002. My wife had a brush with Cancer so it was an ideal opportunity to opt out of work. I live in Harlow Essex, spend most of my weekends and all the summer touring around the UK in our | ||||||||||||||||
first
trip on the 'London Harmony', Jun/Eng with Gordon Emmerson as
2nd/Eng ended up full time pipe welder and general run about.
I
am happy to report correspondence from the 'Sailors Society' (formally
the BISS) that they are celebrating their 190 years supporting Seafarers
from all over the world. We have been invited to the service and lunch
at St. Columba's Church of Scotland in London 21st October and we shall
have to wait closer that time to see if we can attend.
update and seeing
photos of fellow shipmates from days gone by I just had to respond. I
sailed with LOF in the early seventies albeit only on two ships, but
enjoyed the hell out of it. As a Junior Engineer in late 1972, I joined
the 'M.v. Victore' in Newport, Wales. At that time the Chief
Engineer was Roly Sisterson who was being relieved by John W
Jackson. It was an interesting six months aboard the 'Victore'
and it was there that I met that wonderful philosophical teacher of the
Irish Language, Dick Cunningham. Dick was the Radio Officer, a
man of great knowledge and of course great interest. Maurice Simpson
was the new 2nd Engineer, soon to be relieved by the wild Bill Manson
who was indeed a legend in his own time. Lenny Phillips was 3rd
Engineer and the red haired Dubliner Jimmy Urell held 4th
Engineer’s rank.
in
1953 with Hain Shipping Co, he joined Radcliffe's of Cardiff in 1956 and
with a combined Chiefs Cert - LOF in 1959 as Ch/Eng, he came ashore and
worked as an Engineering Superintendent from 1966. After LOF he worked for a
couple of London Based Greek Shipping Co and eventually ran a shop and post
office in his home area of Dinas Powys - South Wales - Bill is keeping well
and still enjoys his round or two of golf.
the
neck and back area injuries received in the car accident about ten days ago.
She can't walk more than 100 metres before the pain makes her scurry for
home. She doesn't look too good with the neck brace on which is
uncomfortable in itself, as you will know if you have ever had one fitted.
The insurance, as usual paid up the minimum for the car. I think its going
to be a long haul for her with her previous troubles not enhancing the
situation. Best wishes Bob Stinchcombe....
The
motor that will power the ship is a 50mm dia. 7 pole
electric running off 12v. We have connected up two 12v 7ah
batteries in No.2 hold (just in front of the superstructure)
to ensure she has enough ‘juice’ to have a meaningful
sail….we first managed to fit the motor in the correct
location as per the real ship, thereby ensuring the
propshaft was correctly positioned as the prototype. Then
dad had the bright idea of building a dummy Sulzer to cover
it……….it will never be seen when on display unless the
superstructure is removed, but WE know its there!!!!!
She
is now finally finished and, due to her size
(7 foot long), she was finally launched onto
our local pond last Saturday. I am happy to
report that there were no mishaps or
unforeseen leaks through the hull (remember,
being so large we couldn’t test float her in
the bath in the usual manner……..
