Shore Base Puzzle

[Peano-55]

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,

[Admin]

I believe that's HMS Mantis at Lowestoft. Do you have a boat number for the crew shot please?

MGBs at HMS Mantis, Lowestoft

mgbs-at-hms-mantis-lowestoft.jpg (57.53 KiB) Viewed 9259 times

THE ROYAL NAVY DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR. © IWM (A 14911) IWM Non Commercial License

[Peano-55]

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

[Manty769]

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.

[Admin]

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