Two Naval Actions Fought In Channel

Northern Advocate, 26 April 1944, Page 7

Two Naval Actions Fought In Channel

(Received 3.30 p.m.) (8.0. W.) RUGBY. April 25,

Two naval actions have been fought in the English Charnel. The Admiralty and Air Ministry announce: “A strong force of enemy E-boats which attempted to attack a convoy in the early hours of Monday was intercepted and driven off by light forces rod light coastal forces of the Royal Navy. The enemy was first engaged at close range by motor torpedo-boats and hits were scored on one E-boat before the enemy could withdraw. Later E-boats were again sighted but escaped in the darkness before action could be joined. Meanwhile a destroyer and frigate engaged further groups of E-boats forcing them to withdraw. During these actions one E-boat was damaged. Scattered enemy forces were subsequently attacked by aircraft of the Coastal Command. His Majesty’s ships sustained neither damage nor casualties and no aircraft was lost." The other clash is described in an Admiralty communique: “Light coastal forces, on offensive patrol, engaged two groups of E-boats in the vicinity of Cherbourg Peninsula. A brisk gun action ensued and many hits were obtained on enemy vessels which were driven off. One of our motor torpedoboats came under the concentrated fire of the enemy and was sunk. The remainder returned to harbour, having suffered a few casualties.”