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Previous name:
Subsequent name: Dunkmous
Official Number: 180790
Class:
Pennant No: X76
Laid down:
Builder: Lytham Shipbuilding, Lytham
Launched: 28 August 1945
Into Service: 22 December 1945
Out of service: 1977
Fate: Sold out of service
Items of historic interest involving this ship: -
Background Data: There were 14 vessels in this Class, designed by H.M. Dockyard, Devonport to the order of the RFA. The design was based on that of the earlier BLOSSOM and FOUNTAIN CLASSES but with an additional salvage and fire-fighting capability. They were originally operated by the Director of Victualling and were maintained at RN bases in the U.K. and Mediterranean where they were employed principally in replenishing warships’ freshwater supplies and also, from time to time, in fire fighting and salvage work. A total of 236 tons of fresh water could be carried in 6 tanks. Most of them saw only limited service under the RFA ensign, manned by RFA crews working under Board of Trade (Home Trade) Agreements, before being transferred to the control of the Captains of the Dockyards on Yard Craft Agreements. In 1959 they were brought under the authority of the newly-formed Port Auxiliary Service which in turn became the Royal Maritime Auxiliary Service. Originally all coal-fired, 4 of the Class were converted to oil-burning in 1961
28 August 1945 Launched by Lytham Shipbuilding & Engineering Co, Lytham as Yard Nr 878 named FRESHPOND for the Admiralty (Director of Stores)
22 December 1945 completed and was taken over by the RFA
16 September 1946 ceased to be classed as an RFA and was taken over by the Director of Fuelling
1954 to 1977 based at Plymouth
21 April 1959 at Devonport alongside HMS Centaur loading fresh water into her. When she slipped she caused slight damage to Centaur - no damage to Freshpond
21 January 1966 In collision with the frigate HMS RELENTLESS at Devonport
July 1977 sold for further service in Panama and was renamed DUNKMOUS.
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