FISHING BOATS
Brave and sturdy like the men who crewed them
By Derek Longly
Amongst the types of vessel that were always to be seen in the harbour whenever I visited Newhaven were the busy little fishing boats that brought their catches to the quayside for sale and distribution. Built to cope with most sea conditions they were often tested by the brave men who manned them. Many were often picturesque, especially the older ones.
My photos showing these craft range from ones taken in the early 1950's with a cheap Kodak camera, through to later years, showing the development of the types of boat to be seen. Also included is the large Criscilla, which later became the Colonel Templar and at that time had a reputation of being a 'spy ship.'
The final shots show the Leith registered trawler Joe Croan at the end of her days when she lay in the port shortly before being towed away for scrapping.
Hopefully these pictures will bring back a few memories for those who have sailed aboard the vessels depicted, as well as to all those who have enjoyed watching the fishermen at their work.
SM566 Possibly the 'Little O'Lady'
Derek Longly
One of my earliest photos at Newhaven - to the right can be seen the bow of the P&A Campbell paddle steamer Glen Gower
Derek Longly
NN68 Atalanta together with possibly the Rosehearty (inside berth) and the Margaret.
Derek Longly
HL 135 thought to be the Dolly Graham built in 1932 and apparently on a charter for a group fishing trip
Derek Longly
NN137 built by Brian Newbury for Bickerstaff Bros. She later worked from Looe in Cornwall
Derek Longly
Photo dated 21 August 2008 when she was probably brand new
Derek Longly
The Criscilla which later became Colonel Templar
Derek Longly
LH 73 Joe Croan Built in 1956 by John Lewis & Son of Aberdeen for Carnie & Croan Ltd. In 1970 she became part of the British United Trawlers fleet
Derek Longly
The Leith registered LH 73 Joe Croan on her way to the breakers in August 1983
Derek Longly