AIR ATTACK DEFIED

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20570, 2 June 1941, Page 7

AIR ATTACK DEFIED

NAVAL' TRAWLER’S CREW JUMP FROM SINKING SHIP (Elec.. Tel. Copyright—United Press Assn.) (British Official Wireless.) Reed. 9 a.m. RUGBY. June 1. The hazards which beset little shins in carrying out a vital part in maintaining British sea power, arc illustrated by the adventures of ihe crew of one of His Majesty’s trawlers which a few nights ago was attacked bv a German plane. The moon was obscured at the time. The attack was over in 45 seconds after the aircraft was first sighted, which gives some idea of the speed at which the men have to fight their ships against aircraft. In those 45 seconds two attacks were made and the trawler fought back with her her guns. They did not claim the aircraft, as it was not seen to crash, but they scored hits and it was last seen just skimming the sea. Though she had not been hit, one bomb had fallen very close to the trawler nnd there were many leaks in the engine-room and she was filling fast. In spite of a heavy sea the skipper was determined to hold on, hoping to get his ship.in tow-.rather than, risk her sinking in the middle of the Channel. However, it sdon' became obvious that the ship was sinking fast and would have to be abandoned.

The only chance of transferring his crew was for the trawlers in company lo manoeuvre alongside and for the men to jump, for it was far too rough lo attempt to use small boats. As a precaution, rafts and a Carlev float were thrown overboard. When the skipper had seen the last of his men leave the ship lie went the rounds once more to make certain there was none left aboard and while he was still on deck the trawler, capsized. However, the skipper' struggled clear and, coining up close to the Carley float,' hauled himself; aboahi. He : saw two men who apparently missed their jump in the water and hauled them on board. Then he saw a third shape in the darkness rind pulled it on lo the float.. ft turned out to be his own trousers with £lO in notes in the pockets. The Carley float was soon picked up and it was found that only two of the trawler’s crow were missing.