Coastal Forces Veterans

I am researching the history of Malmesbury, Wiltshire in World War 2.

During Warship Week 7-14 February 1942 the town and rural district raised £101,388 and subsequently adopted MTB 59. In April 1943 commemorative plaques were exchanged.

I understand MTB 59 was a 70 ft. boat built by Vospers at Portsmouth but would like to know more - when it was built, where it served and when it went out of service. Malmesbury Town Council still has the vessel's plaque but it is part of a large collection of artefacts held in store and unlikely ever to see the light of day. Can anyone suggest a more appropriate home for it?

Charles Vernon

Hello Charles
MTB 59 was part of Order No 8B/20689/40 for 10 units given to Messrs Vosper on 26 February 1940. (57 – 66).
These craft were originally fitted with 3 x Hall Scott “Defender” petrol engines but before delivery were refitted with 3 of the more powerful (and lighter) US built Packard 2500m supercharged petrol engines. This engine design incorporated some modifications derived from the Rolls Royce “Merlin” engine and became commonly known as Packard “Merlins”. Although never an aircraft engine – its lineage can be traced back to the Gar Wood and his pre-War speedboat racing days – the engine was continually developed to become involved as the replacement for the Allison powered, early marks of the P51 “Mustang” fighter aircraft.
This first order of 10 suffered from the early wartime restrictions and a rushed building program – lack of skilled personnel and adequate supplies of proper materials etc. These were the first build by Messrs Vosper at their then new premises at Portchester.
Keel Laid February 1941
Launched August 1941
Delivered December 1941
MTB 59 was to form part of the 7th MTB Flotilla and allocated to the Mediterranean War Theatre. Badly stowed upon the SS Collegian she was damaged during the long voyage to Alexandra, then routed around the Cape and up through the Red Sea. She was to spend several weeks under repair at the Alexandra Naval Base.
Her first CO was Lt R.A.M. Hennessy RN who was also the Flotilla Senior Officer for a while.
Some actions are mentioned in the book “Mediterranean MTB’S at War’ by L. C. Reynolds ISBN 0 7509 2518 3

For disposal Mediterranean September 1944
Hope that this helps
As for the artifacts - maybe the Coastal Forces Heritage Trust would be interested

Thanks so much - I wasn't expecting such a complete answer!

Charles

MTB 59: