Coastal Forces Veterans

Hello,
I was wondering if anyone can please help me with the name of the shore establishment on the attached photo?
Probably looks similar to many of the time (circa 1945?), but I was hoping the rather distinctive shoe box like building in the right background, with what looks like stair wells in the corners, may spark a memory?

Many thanks,

I believe that's HMS Mantis at Lowestoft. Do you have a boat number for the crew shot please?
THE ROYAL NAVY DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR. © IWM (A 14911) IWM Non Commercial License

Hello Admin,

That's excellent! Thank you.

The number on the back of the photo is 769 so I guess the boat is MTB or MGB 769?
I think the boat is a Fairmile D?

Thanks

Bill

How fabulous to find this crew photo.
Never seen my Dad in his Navy Uniform and here we have the whole crew, and such a clear photo.
One for framing.
Dad was Robert J Mant and was PO MM on 769 (2nd Officer on the left as you look at the pic.)
I believe I also have his old toolbox in my garage which he told me he had in the navy.
He never said much about his service, just a couple of snippets.
Believe the Skipper was Wilfred Norman Dyal if what I have read is correct.
Funnily enough this is at HMS Mantis (his surname Mant) and their boat was built in Burnham on Crouch where I have sailed and assist with race managemnt on the Crouch.
Thank you for posting this photo it has really made my year.

Hello Manty769

Thank you for joining the forum.

Just to add a bit more information, the Navy List January 1945 records the following officers for the boat:
Temporary Lieutenant Wilfred Norman Dye RNVR
Temporary Sub-Lieutenant John Wilson RNVR
Temporary Sub-Lieutenant Ronald Hedgecox RNVR
Midshipman John Christopher Goulden RNVR

Admin