Coastal Forces Veterans

I came across a picture of Poole Belle on Facebook. The author said she was a Fairmile B previously named Matapan. Along with another two called Anzio and Dunkirk they plied out of Poole to Swanage and Isle of Wight. Can anyone fill in any more of their stories, e.g. what were their numbers?

Hello Roger

Warships Supplement 59 gives Matapan, sold in 1948 as ML 180. There are quite a few names for launches disposed of in the booklet, both 'B' type and Harbour Defence, but I have not been able to pick up on Anzio or Dunkirk. ML 180 is recorded as being part of the 10th ML Flotilla based at Falmouth.

Admin

Thank you Admin, I'll keep digging.

Just a thought; since Poole Belle had a previous name, Anzio & Dunkirk may have had too, and those names might be contained in the pamphlet I have, should you be able to source any additional information via the Lloyds register or some such.