Wrecks Of The Pentland Firth 1934 - 1981
W. Bremner and D. G. Sinclair

1934 "CAIRNGLEN", a Newcastle steamer of the Cairn line homeward bound from Canada with a general cargo, stranded at Huna. Part of her cargo was transferred to Scrabster by the coasting steamers "Yewforest" and "Kinnaird Head". The vessel was refloated with the assistance of Stroma boatmen. Three Hull tugs were used and a Leith Salvage vessel stood by. The vessel was towed to Longhope for repairs, piloted by Stroma boatmen, and later towed to Leith.

1934 "SILICIA", a Grimsby trawler, stranded in fog on the west side of Dunnet Head. She was refloated at high tide.

1934 "KATTEGAT", German tanker homeward bound, stranded east of Torness Point in fog. She was refloated without assistance and proceeded to Longhope where she pumped her cargo of oil aboard a sister ship and effected repairs before sailing for her home port.

1.6.34 "GERTRUD", A Finnish steamer of Helsingfors, east bound light, struck Langaton Point, Stroma, in dense fog. The crew of 22 were taken off by Stroma fishermen. The vessel was pounded to pieces by heavy seas and sank in deep water.

1934 "ELIZABETH", a Danish three-masted schooner bound west with a cargo of wood, stranded on Little Skerry. She was refloated with slight damage and continued her voyage.

1935 "OCEAN NYMPH", a Leith trawler homeward bound, stranded on the Ness of Duncansby in fog. She was refloated at high ride with the help of local fishermen.

8.35 "GUNNAREN", a Swedish motor vessel bound for Stockholm with a general cargo, ran ashore in dense fog on the west side of Swona. The Longhope lifeboat landed the crew and mails from the vessel. Swedish and German salvage ships tried to salvage part of the vessel by cutting her in two but, because of heavy sea, this had to be abandoned. Later the after part floated off but grounded again half a mile further along the island. Most of the cargo was salvaged by tugs assisted by Stroma and Swona fishermen.

10.10.35 "CARBID", a west bound with coals for Thurso, broke down off Dunnet Head and was carried by the tide dangerously near Mell Head, Stroma. She was picked up by the Aberdeen trawler " Braconburn" east of Duncansby Head and towed to Wick.

20. 2.36 "RUTLANDSHIRE", a Grimsby trawler, stranded in dense fog and darkness on the west side of Stroma. The L.S.A. arrived on the scene just as the trawler slid off the racks and disappeared in the fog.

1936 "MERRIVALE", a Grimsby trawler west bound, ran aground on little Skerry. There was a south-east gale, dense fog and heavy rain at times with a heavy easterly sea running. The vessel's distress signals were observed by the lighthouse keepers on Muckle Skerry who tried to call help but the weather and visibility were so bad that their signals were not seen. When daylight came it was found that the vessel had been thrown over the reef and had sunk in deep water, and her crew of 13 drowned.

"NEPTUNIA", a large French trawler of Havre, west bound, ran aground at Brims Ness, Hoy, in a south-easterly gale,. The Longhope lifeboat rescued her crew of 41. The vessel became a total wreck.

1936 "SIBERITE", a Hull trawler, ran aground on Rora Head, Hoy, in fog. The Stromness lifeboat rescued her crew of 11. The vessel became a total wreck.

1936 "OSTERHAV", a Finnish steamer of Helsingfors west bound with a cargo of pulp, ran ashore near the Stacks of Duncansby in fog. She managed to back off the rocks but was badly holed and had to be beached in Sinclair Bay, piloted by the Wick lifeboat which landed her crew of 29, including 3 women. Her cargo was discharged by a salvage vessel and she was refloated and taken to the Cromarty Firth

1936 "NEW CHOICE", a Granton trawler, stranded on Torness Point in fog. She was refloated with the assistance of Longhope fishermen.

1936 "LORD ESSENDEN", a Hull trawler, struck the rocks on the east side of Stroma in fog. She was refloated without assistance.

1936 "----------", a motor vessel, name unknown, struck the rocks near Scartan Point, Stroma, and was refloated without assistance.

1936 "HILMAR", an Iceland trawler, ran aground on Beacon Point, Stroma, and was refloated without assistance.

1936 "LACERTA", a Grimsby trawler, homeward bound, stranded in fog on the west side of Hoy and was refloated without assistance.

1936 " DANELLA", an Aberdeen trawler, went ashore. at Deerness, Orkney. The crew of 3 scrambled ashore assisted by the local L.S.A. crew.

18. 2.37 Crew of 5 saved from Grimsby trawler PRINCESS CHARMING by Thurso lifeboat HCJ.

9. 3.37 "LOCH BUTE", an Aberdeen trawler, went ashore near Noup Head, Westray. The crew were rescued by the Stromness lifeboat.

22. 4.37 "KIRNOOD", a British steamer, broke down with engine trouble and was towed to Scrabster by the trawler "Gullfoss".

12.1.37 "JOHANNA THORDEN", a Helsingfors motor vessel homeward bound with a general cargo on her maiden voyage, ran ashore on the Traf Tail, Swona, in a haze and south-east gale. Her distress signals were not seen. Her master thought they had stranded on the reef that runs out north-east from Little Skerry and informed Wick Radio to that effect. Her lifeboats were launched and 30 persons left in the first one. Two hours later 16 left in the second one. The gale had increased with a very heavy sea and the flood tide swept the boats eastward past the Pentland Skerries. It was next day before the second lifeboat was driven into Newark Bay, South Ronaldsay, where she capsized with the loss of eight of her crew. The other eight were rescued from the shore. The following day the other lifeboat was washed ashore at Deerness with no one in it. Its occupants had evidently been washed overboard. This was the worst disaster on this coast in living memory - a loss of 38 men out of a crew of 46.

3. 4.37 "THOMAS THRESHER", a Grimsby trawler, stranded in fog at Holborn Head. 9 of her crew token off by Thurso lifeboat. She was later refloated with lifeboat assistance and proceeded on her voyage.

10. 6. 37 "BYDAND", a Peterhead drifter sprang a leak while crossing the Rip tide of the "Merry Men of Mey". The crew were rescued by the Banff drifter "Alert" and the gear was saved. The "Bydand" sank about 2 miles north of St. John's Point.

6. 37 "MAYFLOWER", a Hull trawler, ran ashore in fog at Skirza Head and was later refloated. Wick lifeboat and L.S.A. stood by.

8.37 "NORTHERN DUKE", a London trawler outward bound, ran ashore in fog on the reef near Little Skerry. The Hull trawler "Lady Shirley" and Stroma fishermen stood by. She was refloated by the Aberdeen Salvage tug " Iron Axe" and towed to Aberdeen. She was badly damaged.

1937 "REIN", a Norwegian steamer, went ashore at Helman Head, south of Wick. The crew were saved by a Wick fishing boat. The vessel became a total wreck.

28.1.38 "LEICESTERSHIRE", a Grimsby trawler, ran ashore in a north-west gale and a heavy sea near Torness Point, Hoy. Visibility was bad because of heavy snow showers. She had been in touch with Wick Radio off Sule Skerry. Nothing was known of the disaster until next day when the local people found wreckage and fish that had been washed ashore. The crew of 15 were all lost.

5.38 "CADELLA", an Aberdeen trawler, stranded on Beacon Point, Stroma. She was later swept clear by the strong tide and proceeded on her outward voyage.

6.38 "SENATOR HOLFHUON", a German trawler, ran ashore in fog at Liddel Ayre, South Ronaldsay. She was refloated at high tide.

6.38 "UNION", a Norwegian steamer of Haguesund, ran ashore in dense fog near Duncansby Head. She was bound for Iceland with a cargo of coal. She was refloated at high tide.

6.38 "- - - - -", a Hull trawler, name unknown, ran ashore In very dense fog near the Ness of Duncansby at the same time as "Senator Holfhuon" and "Union". The weather was fine and the sea smooth and all three vessels were refloated at high tide without assistance.

8.38 "ARRADOUL", a Fraserburgh drifter, collided with the Aberdeen trawler "ROSSKEEN" off Dunnet Head in dense fog. The drifter sank immediately and 7 of her crew were picked up by the trawler. The remaining 4 were drowned.

27.8.38 "HELIOS", a German trawler east bound, struck the rocks at Muckle Skerry and damaged her rudder. She had been swept off her course by the strong tide. She was refloated under her own power and cleared Little Skerry. She was later picked up by tugs east of Duncansby Head and towed to Aberdeen for repairs.

10.38 "WORSLEY", a Grimsby trawler, ran ashore on Berry Head, Hoy in dense fog. The Longhope lifeboat and L. S. A. took the crew off. The vessel became a total wreck.

10.1.39 Thurso lifeboat was called out in a gale to the assistance of 5 seine-net boats. She located 2 and they arrived in Scrabster about 5 p.m. The other 3, "Lea Rig, "Fisher Boy", and "Crest" of Banff were escorted to harbour about 6.30 p. m.

2. 3.39 "LORD NUFFIELID", a Hull trawler outward bound, had an engine breakdown In a north-westerly gale off Torness Point. Two sister ships stood by her and after many unsuccessful attempts managed to get a line across her by rocket. They towed her to Scrabster. The Longhope lifeboat was called out but failed to locate the distressed vessel.

11. 4.39 "NARVA", was passing the north end of Stroma when an Algerian who had stowed away on her, jumped overboard with the intention of swimming to land. He was never seen again.

4.39 "BEDFORDSHIRE", a Grimsby trawler outward bound, ran ashore in dense fog at Freswick. She was refloated under her own power at high tide and proceeded to the Iceland fishing grounds.

6.39 "- - - - -", an unknown vessel, fired distress rockets from the little Skerry in dense fog. The Thurso lifeboat was called out but the vessel had been refloated before the lifeboat came on the scene.

6.39 "VALOROUS", a Buckie drifter, ran aground on the east side of Dunnet Head. The Banff drifter "Heathory Brae" towed her off at high tide and Brough fishermen transferred her gear to the Banff boat. Both vessels proceeded to Buckie.

7.39 "LYNX II", a trawler homeward bound, ran ashore in fog on the west side of Swona. She fired distress signals. The Stromness lifeboat and the Grimsby trawler "Beaumaris Castle" managed to refloat her end she was towed home by the "Beaumaris Castle". One of the crew was drowned. She suffered damage to her propellor.

9.39 "WASHINGTON", a Grimsby trawler, stranded at Skirza Head. Local fishermen rigged up the breeches buoy and with the aid of Wick L.S.A. landed 2 of the crew. Then the Wick lifeboat arrived and took off the remaining 9. The vessel became a total wreck in a very short time.

8.9.39 "COMMANDER NAISMITH", a Hull trawler, stranded on Lother Rock, South Ronaldsay. The Longhope lifeboat was called out but failed to locate her as she was reported shore on Stroma. She was refloated at high tide without assistance.

25.10.39 "STAR OF VICTORY", an Aberdeen trawler, ran ashore at Keiss and became a total wreck. Her crew of 10 were taken off by Wick lifeboat.

1.11.39 "WILLIAM STEPHEN", An Aberdeen trawler, ran aground on the Ness of Duncansby. She was refloated by Stroma fishermen and proceeded to Aberdeen.

10.11.39 "LADY STANLEY", a Fleetwood trawler, ran ashore in darkness at Swilkie Point, Stroma. The local L.S.A. heard her distress signals and turned out. She was being badly pounded when she slipped off the rocks and was picked up by the Grimsby trawler "Wigmore" who assisted her to Grimsby.

39 "JANET", a Wick seine-net boat, broken down off Brims Ness, was picked up by the Scrabster lifeboat and towed to Scrabster.

39 "ROYAL OAK", H.M. battleship, was torpedoed in Scapa Flow. Only 386 of her crew were saved. Skipper Gatt of the Peterhead drifter "Daisy II", received the D.S.C. for his bravery in rescuing them.

1.40 " ----------" H.M. trawler, ran aground at Huna in darkness. A Stroma motor boot proceeded to her assistance. She was refloated and given her bearings by the boatmen. This is the fifth stranding in the area due to the lighthouse being out of action through war conditions.

1.40 "FARO", a Norwegian steamer, struck a mine off Old Head, South Ronaldsay. The vessel was disabled and drove ashore. 7 of the crew were rescued by the local L.S.A. 8 of the crew left her in their own lifeboat but 7 of them were drowned before they could make land.

4.40 "CHRISTIANSBORG" of Kobenhavn, a Danish steamer, struck a mine east of the Pentland Skerries and sank.

4.40 "GERALDA", a Leith steamer, bombed and sank off Old Head, South Ronaldsay; the weather was stormy with a heavy easterly sea. The crew of 23 were all drowned.

7.40 "WAYNEGATE", of London ran aground at Finnieshaven, Stroma, in dense fog. She was refloated at high tide by H. M. tugs "Buccaneer" and "Salvage King'.

7.40 "IMOGEN", H. M. destroyer, was cut in halves by another destroyer in dense fog off Duncansby Head. The after-part of the vessel drifted west with the ebb, North of Stroma, and sank about 4 miles W. N. W. of Stroma lighthouse with 18 hands. She fired distress signals repeatedly by gun and rocket and aid was summoned by the Stroma coastguards but owing to fog and strong tides she was not located in time to save the crew.

27.7.40 "ORLOCK HEAD", of Belfast, sank after an explosion off Strathy Point. Thurso lifeboat and two destroyers from Scapa went to her and found her on fire. The crew were taken off and the vessel sank.

9.40 Five East Fife fishermen, returning from Stornoway after a successful three months fishing trip, had to abandon their boat when it caught fire as they were on their way to Scrabster. The men escaped in their small boat and landed at Scrabster.

6.11.40 " -------- ", an unknown vessel was bombed and set on fire 10 miles E.N.E. of Wick. Wick lifeboat and two Patrol Vessels went to her assistance. 13 persons were landed at Wick and others at Thurso. The number of lives lost is unknown. The vessel sank.

1940 "GRETAFIELD", a British trawler, was torpedoed 10 miles S.E. of Wick. Wick lifeboat reached her and took off 27 survivors. It is believed that 14 were missing. She afterwards ran ashore at Dunbeath, with her cargo of oil burning fiercely, and become a total wreck.

1941 "VESTFOS", a Norwegian steamer, in trouble off Deerness, Orkney. An Aberdeen trawler took the vessel in tow. The crew of 21 ware landed at Kirkwall. The vessel was abandoned and sank.

1940 "DHAGESTAN", a British tanker, blew up 7 miles east of Stroma. A naval vessel went to her assistance but none of the crew were saved. The vessel sank.

1940 "STRATHALFORD", a trawler, went ashore on the north side of Wick Bay. 5 of the crew were rescued by breeches buoy, 2 by Wick lifeboat, while 3 were lost.

10.11.41 The smack "LANGNESS" from the Faroes with 60 tons of fish on board, destined for Aberdeen fired distress signals while at anchor in Thurso Bay during hurricane force easterly winds. During the rescue of the crew of 7 the Thurso lifeboat HCJ was damaged when thrown against the smack in the violent weather.

1941 "DROMERA", a steamship, foundered 8 miles E by N of Wick when her cargo shifted. The crew were landed safely by Wick lifeboat.

1941 " - - - - - ", a Norwegian fishing vessel, was in distress 1 mile N.W. of Duncansby Head. Longhope lifeboat towed her into Orkney.

1941 "AVRA", a Greek steamer, collided with an unknown vessel and sank off Duncansby Head. The crew were rescued by the "Maria". Longhope lifeboat was Iaunched but the vessel sank.

7.12.41 During a north-westerly gale gusting up to 90 mph, the 900 ton S.S. SADO of Hougesund, laden with cement, lost both her anchors. Thurso lifeboat HCJ managed to get alongside the drifting vessel, put a man on board, and brought the steamer into Scrabster Harbour. "

1941 "SALVAGE KING", H.M. salvage vessel, ran aground in darkness on the Ness of Duncansby. Longhope and Wick lifeboats stood by and the crew wore taken off by the Wick lifeboat and transferred to H. M. tug "Buccaneer" . Efforts to refloat the vessel failed, tow ropes parting in several attempts. The surf became so heavy that the salvage crew was taken off by Stroma fishermen in a dangerous operation. All salvage gear etc. was later saved by Stroma boatmen and transferred to another vessel and landed at Lyness.

12. 1. 42 "EMPIRE PARSONS", west bound in convoy, ran ashore in darkness on the east side of Stroma. The crew of 52 were rescued by Stroma L.S.A during a south-east gale with sleet and rain. The vessel become a total wreck. 35 other vessels of the same convoy had also lost their bearings and were dangerously near the rocks when warned off by Stroma coastguards.

1.42 "JONEYDEW", H.M. drifter bound for Scapa Flow, sprang a leak. The engine room was floodeci and she was drifting helplessly towards the north-east side of Stroma with the ebb. Her distress signals were seen and two Stroma motor boats towed her clear of Swilkie Point. She was afterwards taken in tow by on Admiralty vessel and taken to Lyness.

13.2.42 "SANSCRIT", a trawler, fired distress signals off Scrabster. Scrabster lifeboat and L.S.A. saved 8 members of the crew who were taken ashore by breeches buoy. 3 were washed overboard and drowned before she stranded.

7.42 " --------", a Greek destroyer ran ashore in dense fog near the Tarf of Swona. She was towed off by Admiralty tugs, Swona fishermen acting as pilots.

7.42 " --------" , H. M. trawler, was swept by the strong current on to the rocks at Muckle Skerry. She was later refloated and towed south by an Admiralty tug.

27.9.42 "ST. OLAVES", an H. M. tug towing the water boat "GOLDEN CLOWN" south from Scapa, struck the rocks on the Ness of Duncansby in a north-east gale, 4 of the crew of the "Golden Crown" managed to get ashore before the Wick lifeboat arrived. The crew of the "St. Olaves" were rescued by the lifeboat in dangerous conditions as there were pieces of other wrecks lying In the vicinity. Later most of the gear was salvaged by Stroma fishermen working along with the Metal Industries salvage vessel "Bertha".

21.9.42 " --------", a Faroese fishing smack showed signals of distress 3 miles east of Stroma in a north-east gale. An Admiralty tug sighted her and took her in tow to Scapa Flow.

1942 "EMPIRE PARSONS". Ashore east side of Stroma. S. E. gale, rain. Crew rescued by LSA on maiden trip. Vice Commodore of convoy, Morrison's of Newcastle. Broken up for scrap.

Salvage King towing barge St. Olaves. Both grounded on Ness of Duncansby. Crew saved, wreck broken up for scrap.

8.42 "CLAN McKINLEY", of Glasgow, bound for an east coast port was bombed and sank south-east of Freswick Bay.

1942 "ISLEFORD", a steamer, fired distress signals 3 miles south of Wick. The Wick lifeboat could not be launched owing to heavy sea so the Cromarty lifeboat was called. The vessel drifted ashore, on the north side of Wick Bay, and broke in two. The local L.S.A. fired four rockets with lines but the crew were unable to hold and fix them and all 14 of them were lost. The vessel foundered.

1943 "BERRIEDALE", a coasting steamer was struck by a heavy sea and turned turtle 6 miles east of the Pentland Skerries. 16 members of her crew took a raft and were picked up off Dunnet Head by one of H. M. trawlers. The master of the vessel was drowned.

1943 " --------", a steamer, name unknown, flew distress signals W. N. W. of Stroma lighthouse. The Longhope lifeboat and a naval tug took her to Lyness.

1943 "GARDAR", a British tanker, collided with S. S. "Minguel De Larrinaga" 10 miles N.E. of Wick in fog. The Wick lifeboat was launched. The "Gardar" sank.

1943 "- - - - - - -", a steamer, name unknown, proceeding west light, in the teeth of a westerly gale and a very heavy sea broke down and called for assistance. The lifeboat and the Admiralty were informed. She was drifting dangerously near the west side of Stroma and, as no rescue craft had arrived, her own lifeboat and two rafts were lowered in readiness as she would certainly have been pounded to pieces had she struck. At the critical moment they got the engines to work and she started to forge ahead until she got into the west going stream which carried her about 3 miles north-west of Stroma and out of immediate danger. About two hours later she got under way normally and passed east. The lifeboat was smashed against the ship's side and the two rafts were found washed up on the Huna shore next day. An Admiralty tug and the Longhope lifeboat were too late to render assistance as the vessel had cleared the Firth before daybreak and before they arrived.

7.2.44 A British submarine being towed west through the Pentland Firth in a north-west gale and heavy sea, broke adrift off Dunnet Head. It is presumed she sank in that vicinity. The Thurso and Longhope lifeboats were out but found nothing.

8.2.44 "FREIDIG" of Haugesund, a Norwegian steamer bound from Aberdeen to Liverpool with a cargo of grain, foundered in sight of Cape Wrath in a gale and very heavy sea. Thurso lifeboat was called out and found 5 dead sailors on a raft. They were transferred to the lifeboat. The search was kept up and two men were rescued from another raft. The remainder of the crew of 26 were never found and were presumed drowned. For his outstanding seamanship and courage during this service, Cox'n John MacLeod was awarded the RNLI's Bronze Medal and the BEM.

4.7.44 "ACUBA", a trawler, went ashore in fog at Dunnet Head but got off under her own power.

16.7.44 " --------", a Faroese smack, grounded on the rocks at St. John's Point, Mey. She was refloated without assistance and proceeded to Aberdeen with her cargo of fish.

19.7.44 "GRUNDICK", a Faroese motor vessel homeward bound, grounded on the Ness of Huna. She was refloated at high tide with the assistance of a Stroma motor boat.

31.7.44 "GOLDMOUTH", a steamer, ran aground on the Pentland Skerries. Stroma fishermen stood by while a naval vessel towed her off the rocks and took her to Lyness.

4.8.44 "ALEX RAMSEY", ran ashore 1/2 mile west of Spear Point but was towed off the same evening.

5.8.44 Two American vessels in convoy collided abreast of Stroma lighthouse in fog. One was cut down to the waterline. Longhope lifeboat arrived on the scene just as her crew were ready to take to their own boats. The Iifeboat put a pilot aboard who took her to Scrabster while her crew remained aboard.

9.8.44 "PLETHOS", an Aberdeen trawler, ran aground 100 yards south of Stroma south harbour, in clear daylight. Signals were made to her by the coastguards before she grounded but she paid no attention. She got off with the flowing tide under her own power.

1945 An air-sea rescue launch ran aground on Beacon Point, Stroma. Stroma fishermen refloated her at high tide and she was towed back to Wick.

8.1.45 "ASHBURY", of Glasgow, heading west, light ship, propeller out of water, not enough power to keep her off rocks, ran ashore in a north-west gale at Heave lsland, near Melness. Later she slipped off and sank in deep water. Neither Thurso lifeboat or Scrabster L. S. A. could get near her to get a line aboard and the whole crew of 46 were drowned. All their bodies were washed ashore. This was one of the worst tragedies experienced on the north coast.

12.6.45 "ART YOUNG", of Panscoola, U.S.A. a vessel of 10,000 tons gross, ran ashore in fog on Swilkie Point, Stroma. Stroma L.S.A stood by and the Longhope lifeboat and some local boats were also on the spot. The weather was moderate and her crew stayed aboard. She was refloated three days later by Metal Industries tugs from Lyness and token to Longhope, piloted by Stroma fishermen. After temporary repairs she crossed the Atlantic to her home port.

1945 "HERMAN ANDERSEN", sprang a leak north-east of Dunnet Head. She made Thurso Bay next day and was repaired there.

1945 A floating dock broke adrift from her tugs off Dunnet Head. The crew were taken off by a tug. She was later connected up again and towed to lnvergordon.

June 1945 "FORT LA PRAIRIE" , a large British steamer, went ashore on little Skerry. After being on the rocks for several days she was towed off by the Metal lndustries tug "Salveda", assisted by Stroma fishermen. Longhope rescued 52 crew.

24.1.46 "JEANNIE", a small motor boat bought by two Shetlanders and on her way from Macduff to Lerwick, broke down in a westerly gale off Dunnet Head. One of her crew was washed overboard and drowned while passing Stroma. With her engine out of action and in a sinking condition she drifted east through the Firth with the flood tide and made safety at Macduff the following afternoon, with only the skipper left aboard.

2.46 "EMPIRE IN OBASSA", a large steamer of 10,000 tons, lay helpless in a westerly gale between Dunnet Head and Cape Wrath. Thurso lifeboat went to her aid but was recalled when It was learnt that she had been taken in tow by tugs. She was towed to a west coast port.

10.2.46 A boom vessel was towing a trawler through the Pentland Firth in a westerly gale when the tow rope parted. Thurso lifeboat searched for her but was unable to find her. Both vessels drifted east through the Firth and made shelter in the east coast.

15.2.46 "EMPIRE COWLEITH", of Leith, was off Dunnet Head when her engines broke down. Thurso lifeboat and the Swedish steamer "Belos" stood by her until Admiralty tugs arrived and towed her to Aberdeen

21.10.46 "TRINITE", an auxiliary three-masted schooner of Goteburg homeward bound from Iceland with a cargo of salt herring went ashore on Brims Ness. She was refloated with the assistance of Thurso lifeboat and the fishing boat "Venture" and taken to Scrabster.

1947 "PRIMULA", a Thurso seine-net boat with her engine broken down was picked up by Thurso lifeboat next day and towed to Scrabster. The skipper of the "Primula" was normally the coxswain of the lifeboat.

1947 A Faroese auxiliary smack broke down in the Pentland Firth and drifted west. She managed to anchor off Brigga Head and the Longhope lifeboat stood by while her engines were repaired.

1947 "GUNDINE", a Norwegian vessel, grounded in fog at Torness. Stromness lifeboat went to her aid, and, when she was refloated, assisted her to Lyness.

1948 "STRATHCOE", on Aberdeen trawler, ran ashore at Quoys Ness. The Longhope lifeboat and Scarfskerry L.S.A. were called out but in the meantime Stroma fishermen had laid out a kedge anchor and thus refloated the vessel. She was able to proceed on her way to the fishing grounds.

1948 "HOLDERNESS", a Hull steamer, grounded on Quoys Ness but was refloated at high tide without assistance.

23.8.49 "ST. CLAIR", a Grimsby trawler, ran ashore in fog on Swona and became a total wreck. She was homeward bound with a cargo of fish. No loss of life.

1949 "CORESSA", a motor boat, caught fire and was abandoned 12 miles N.W. of Holborn Head. The crew were taken off and landed at Scrabster by another motor boat.

2.50 "SANDRA", a motor vessel, broke down in the west Pentland Firth. She lay helpless for some time but eventually made a temporary repair to her engines and reached Scrabster under her own power.

21.7.50 "MARWEISK", a steamer of' 7000 tons, ran aground in fog off Swona. She backed off without assistance but her fore hold was holed and she was making water. Thurso lifeboat located her in dense fog off Dunnet Head and piloted her to Scrabster where part of her cargo of grain was discharged. She then proceeded south for repair.

23.7.50 "0RSA", a Glasgow steamer west bound with a cargo of wood, grounded on the Pentland Skerries and was later refloated under her own power.

8.50 "TERN", a Wick seine-net boat, ran aground in fog at Staxigoe. She slipped off the rocks and sank in deep water, a total loss. The crew were saved.

1951 "OLJAREN", a Norwegian tanker, ran ashore on Muckle Skerry. After several days aground she was refloated with the assistance of Metal Industries tug "Salveda" and Stroma fishermen and towed to Lyness.

1951 "RUTUERS VICTORY ", a large U.S.A. steamer carrying stores to troops in Germany went ashore on Muckle Skerry. Longhope lifeboat stood by. She was refloated by the "Salveda" assisted by Stroma motor boat and taken to Scapa Flow.

1951 "BALMORAL", a seine-net boat, ran aground on Strathy Point. The crew scrambled ashore, the vessel become a total wreck.

10.52 "ST. RONAN", a Hull trawler, ran aground at St . John's Point, Mey. 21 of her crew were rescued by a Stroma motor boat and landed at the harbour of Mey. The vessel became a total wreck.

1952 "STRATHELLIOT", an Aberdeen trawler, ran aground at Tang Head, Hoy. The Stromness lifeboat unable to get alongside and all the crew were landed by the Hoy L.S.A. under difficult conditions.

1952 "GUILDER ROSE", a motor vessel, in distress 12 miles east of Duncansby Head, was picked up by the lcelandic trawler "Selfoss" and towed to Buckie. Wick lifeboat was out searching for the vessel.

1952 "THORSHOVDI", a Norwegian whale factory ship of 23, 000 tons gross, proceeding east in fog through the Pentland Firth, collided with the Swedish liner "ANNA SALEN" , which was steaming west, homeward bound with competitors from the Helsinki Olympic Games. The "Anna Salen" was damaged and set on fire. The Longhope lifeboat piloted her to Scapa Flow for repairs. The other vessel was undamaged.

1952 "THOR", a German trawler, foundered east of Orkney with the loss of 16 hands. The German trawler " Fladengrun" picked up a lifeboat with one member of the crew alive and one dead.

1953 "SUNLIGHT", an Aberdeen trawler, ran aground on the Spur of Murkle. The crew were taken off by the Thurso lifeboat. The vessel became a total wreck. The Cox'n of Thurso lifeboat (A.S. Macintosh) was awarded the RNLI's Thanks on Vellum for this service.

6.10.55 "POLYANA", a Norwegian steamer with a cargo of iron ore, developed a dangerous list when her cargo shifted and sprang a leak off Westray. Stromness lifeboat was called out but the vessel managed to make Kirkwall.

18.9.53 "HASSETT", a Grimsby trawler, ran ashore at Aukengill. It took the L.S.A. three hours to locate her. Wick lifeboat was also called out. 15 men were taken ashore by breeches buoy under bad conditions. 5 were washed overboard and drowned before help arrived. The vessel become a total wreck.

1953 "BETTER HOPE", a motor boat, was reported in distress off Sandside. She foundered and her crew scrambled ashore on the rocks, helped by local people. Thurso lifeboat was launched. The vessel became a total wreck.

22.3.53 "LEICESTER CITY", a trawler, ran ashore at Hoy. Visibility was very bad at the time. Stromness lifeboat picked up 4 survivors one of whom died on way to port. HCJ Thurso lifeboat picked up 2 bodies and took them to Stromness. 10 men got ashore on an upturned liferaft - two of them later died. Thurso lifeboat then found the body of the remaining crew member. The trawler become a total wreck.

9.53 "FISHER BOY", a motor boat, went ashore on Brims Ness. Thurso lifeboat and L.S.A were called out but the crew scrambled ashore aided by local men. No lives were lost. The vessel become a total wreck. (See 1946).

1954 "KOORAH", an Aberdeen trawler, ran ashore 1/2 mile west of Dunnet Head. The crew were rescued by the seine-net boat "Our Lassie" and landed at Scrabster. Salvage failed and the vessel sank.

19.54 "AMBER OUEEN", a motor boat, got into difficulties off Holborn Head. The Thurso lifeboat went to her assistance but she was towed to Scrabster by the seine-net boat "Sealgair".

2.5.55 Fishing vessel "OCEAN PEARL" with a crew of 5 disabled 2 miles off Holborn Head, towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat HCJ.

1955 "EUCLASE", a trawler, went ashore on Baxter Rock, south of the Stacks of Duncansby. Wick L.S.A. established communications with her and her crew of 12 were token off by Wick lifeboat. She became a total loss.

1955 A small rowing boat went amissing from Scrabster. Thurso lifeboat located her ashore 1 mile west of Dunnet Head and spotted 2 men ashore under the high cliffs. Wick and Scarfskerry L.S.A. assisted them up the cliffs by means of ladders.

Faroese smack wrecked on Ness, of Duncansby. Cargo of coal.

6.11.55 "REGGIO", a Grimsby trawler, was reported ashore west of Dunnet Head. A search by Thurso lifeboat and Scrabster and Scarfskerry L.S.A. failed to locate her. Later it was found she had gone ashore at Rora Head, Hoy, and had been refloated without damage.

10.11.55 "DELIGENT", a Buckie seine-net boat, went ashore in fog in Sannick Bay. She was refloated later by Stroma fishermen and towed to Wick by the Fishery Cruiser " Freya".

14.11.55 "SUBLIME", a Lossiemouth seine-net boat, went ashore on the Ness of Duncansby and was towed off by another seine-net boat "Swiftshure", while Stroma fishermen stood by to help. She was towed south by the " Swiftshure".

1956 "GAVA", an Aberdeen trawler, went ashore on the Pentland Skerries. Part of her crew were rescued by the Wick boat "Enterprise" and taken to Wick. The remainder of the crew remained with her until she was refloated and taken to Lyness.

7. 6.56 Fishing vessel "FALCON" of Buckie broken down off Brims Ness and leaking very badly. 3 of the crew taken on board Thurso lifeboat DUNNET HEAD, and "Falcon " towed to Scrabster.

1956 " DOVREFJELL", a Norwegian steamer, tanker and ore-carrier, ran aground on Little Skerry. Wick and Longhope lifeboats proceeded to the scene but were unable to get near the vessel because of the heavy, easterly sea. Her crew of 41 were rescued by helicopter, a few at a time, and landed at John o' Groats. The vessel was towed off later by the "Salveda".

1956 "STRATHCOE", an Aberdeen trawler, went ashore at Rackwick Bay, Hoy. The Longhope lifeboat rescued all her crew by means of the breeched buoy. The vessel become a total wreck (See 1948).

10.12.56 Thurso lifeboat DUNNET HEAD, along with boathouse, totally destroyed by fire.

13. 1.57 "SOUND FISHER", a coaster developed a list when her cargo shifted and sank 8 miles east of Ness Head. Wick lifeboat was launched but her crew were rescued by the Aberdeen trawlers "Dulcibelle" and "Wood burn".

8. 3.57 Trawler "NORTHERN WAVE" aground on west side of Dunnet Head, refloated with help of Thurso lifeboat.

8. 4.57 "NORTHERN WAVE" a Grimsby trawler, went ashore at Murkle. Thurso lifeboat stood by while she was refloated and took her crew and her to Scrabster.

29. 6.57 "CARENCY" an Aberdeen trawler, struck the rocks at Broadhaven, Wick, and afterwards backed off and sank in deep water. The crew were saved.

4.7.57 " GIRDLENESS", an Aberdeen trawler, went ashore near Cantick Head. She was refloated three days later after jettisoning her bunkers. Longhope lifeboat stood by.

17. 6.58 "BRODRENES", a Norwegian shark-fisher, was reported broken down 3 miles east of Ness Head. Wick lifeboat contacted her and towed her to Wick.

14. 7.58 "OUR LASS", a Lybster fishing boat, caught fire and was beached at Clyth. The crew scrambled ashore and found refuge in Clyth Lighthouse. The boat became a total loss.

16. 9.58 "T.L. DEVLIN", a Granton trawler, was in collision with the Glasgow coaster "TURQUOISE" 2 miles N.W. of Stroma. Slight damage and no assistance required. One man injured on the "Turquoise".

7.10.58 "BEN MEIDIE", an Aberdeen trawler, went ashore on Clettack Skerry. Wick and Longhope lifeboats went to the scene and the Wick boat took the crew off. The 2nd coxswain of the Wick boot Injured his foot in the operation.

1958 "JEAN STEPHENS", an Aberdeen trawler, ran ashore in Sinclair Bay, Wick. L.S.A. stood by in a blinding snowstorm. The crew come ashore at low tide. The vessel become a total loss.

9. 1.59 "FREYA", Fishery Cruiser, foundered 1-1/4 miles off Sarclet Point at 04.30. There were heavy snow showers at the time and nothing was known of the disaster until 08.30 when flares were seen. A Belgian trawler "St. Jan Berchmans" picked up 17 of the crew in a rubber dinghy but 3 were missing, presumed drowned. Wick lifeboat searched the area and coastguards the shore but nothing was found.

13. 1.59 "EBENEEZER", a Wick fishing boat, went aground on Proudfoot, Wick, but refloated under her own power. Later she sent to Lybster and beached for repairs.

4. 3.59 "STELATUS", a Swedish steamer, ran ashore in fog at Aukengill. Wick lifeboat took off the crew of 26 while other boats stood by. The vessel became a total wreck.

16. 4.59 "LORD ROWALLAN", a Hull trawler was in collision with a foreign vessel off Duncansby Head. Only slight damage.

7.12,59 "GEORGE ROBB", an Aberdeen trawler, ran ashore south of Duncansby Head in a south-east gale. Wick lifeboat could not get near her owing to the fierce gale, while the Wick L.S.A. could not get a line aboard her. It was blown back every time. Her crew of 12 were all lost.

8.12.59 "SERVUS", Leith coaster, broke down in a south-east gale off Dunbeath. She was driving ashore when the Cromarty lifeboat rescued her crew of 8. The vessel become a total loss.

21.12 59 Fishing vessel "FRIENDLY STAR" broken down and towed to Scrabster by fishing vessels "GIRL MARY" and "YUKON STAR". Thurso lifeboat escorted the vessels.

29. 4.60 "FULMAR", a Wick seine-net boat, sprang a leak and was taken in tow by another seine-net boat, "Chance". The "Fulmar" sank and her crew were rescued by the "Chance".

5. 60 "FAME", a Buckle seine-net boat, went ashore in fog at Murkle. Thurso lifeboat took 4 of her crew ashore and 3 stayed on board. The vessel was refloated by "Metinda" of Metal Industries.

1960 "BALMORAL", a Wick seine-net boat, went ashore at Brims Ness. She was later refloated under her own power.

1960 "ROSEBANK", a Wick seine-net boot, sprang a leak and sank off Ness Head. Her crew were taken off by Wick lifeboat.

1960 "DRANGAJOKULL", an Iceland steamer, capsized off Stroma lighthouse. The Aberdeen trawler "Mount Eden", happened to be in the vicinity and took off her complement of 19, including a woman and child.

1960 "ADOLPHE HENNICKE", an East German trawler, went ashore in fog on Swona. Longhope lifeboat, assisted by Swona fishermen, towed her off and took her to Longhope.

2.61 "LOYAL FRIEND", a Fraserburgh seine-net boat, ran ashore on Little Skerry. Wick lifeboat rescued her crew of 5, and also the launch and its crew of the Fishery Cruiser "Wotton" which had broken down going to the rescue. The Longhope lifeboat stood by. The vessel became a total wreck.

5.61 "REFLEURIR", a Banff seine-net boat, struck the rocks near Duncansby Head but refloated at high tide without assistance and without much damage. Another fishing vessel and the Fishery Cruiser Norna" stood by.

9.61 ''ELSE", a Faroese fishing smack, ran ashore on the Ness of Duncansby. 4 of her crew were rescued by the "Girl Elsie" of Stroma and 2 by Wick lifeboat. The vessel became a total wreck.

9.61 "YUKON FISHER", a Buckle seine-net boat, dragged her anchor while sheltering from a westerly gale and was driven ashore at Dwarwick Head. Her crew of 5 swam ashore. She was refloated when the weather moderated.

12. 61 "REPLENISH", a motor boot bought in Macduff by two Shetland brothers, was being taken home by them. They called at Wick and left on the afternoon of the 30th. They were never heard of again.

3.62 "HERMAN KRAUSE", a German trawler, ran aground outside Scrabster Harbour. She was towed off next clay by two sister ships and left for Aberdeen for examination.

8. 62 "DAFFODIL", a Kirkwall motor boat, reported striking a submerged object off Brims Ness. She filled rapidly and sank. The crew made a raft of fish boxes and got ashore, assisted by local men, before the L.S.A. arrived.

8. 62 "DAISY", a Peterhead seine-net boat, sank in a full gale off the east coast of Orkney. After the lifeboat searched in vain for many hours a plane sighted a raft with the crew of the "Daisy" on it. The Danish steamer "Nella Dan", picked them up and later transferred them to the Longhope lifeboat who landed them at Wick. There was a full gale blowing all the time the search was on and the lifeboat covered 110 miles. It was also the first rescue by this new boat.

10.62 "ACORN", a Lossiemouth seine-net boat, was rammed by a Russian vessel in the early hours of the morning and damaged below the water-line. The Wick seine-net boat "Boy Andrew" was first on the scene, followed by the lifeboat and other vessels who assisted the "Acorn" to Wick. The Russian had disappeared in the fog without making any attempt to help the "Acorn".

25.10.62 "KAREN", a Norwegian cargo vessel east bound In ballast from Preston, broke down in a full northerly gale and a very heavy sea about 10 miles from Holborn Head in a N.N.W. direction. Thurso lifeboat was called out and located her. The trawler "Caesar" of Hull also stood by and got a line aboard herabout8.30p.m. Unfortunately the line parted and the "Karen" was drifting down on Dunnet Head. About 10. 20 the Wick Coastguards went to join Scrabster and Scarfskerry L.S.A. who had been alerted at the first distress signal. At 11.30 the "Caesar" again got a line aboard and began to tow the vessel off shore with Thurso lifeboat standing by. By this time the vessels were only one mile off Dunnet Head. The " Caesar" towed her off shore all night and at 11 a. m. next day the "Karen" steamed into Scrabster under auxiliary power, towed by the "Caeser" and escorted by the lifeboat. She rectified her trouble, water in the fuel pipes, and proceeded on her voyage next day. This was an outstanding example of rescue work.

27. 4.63 "MORNING STAR", a Wick seine-net vessel, ran aground on the north side of Wick Bay. The lifeboat and L.S.A. stood by but it was twelve hours later before she was towed off by the two local boats "Bluebell" and "Golden Spinney", who took her to Wick harbour.

17.12.63 Small fishing boat "DELIGHTFUL" from Longhope with 2 on board missing in deteriorating weather. Search carried out by aircraft and lifeboats. Boat and occupants found in Brough Bay by Thurso lifeboat and towed safely to Longhope.

1963 "VILLAGE MAID", an Orkney motor boat, sprang a leak and sank while on passage from loch Erribol to Thurso. The Aberdeen trawler "Mount Everest" rescued the crew and transferred them to the Thurso lifeboat.

1964 "MARIA GABRIEL", a Belgian trawler, went ashore near Thurso and was towed off by the seine-net boat "Primula".

1964 "GIRL BETTY", a Peterhead seine-net boat, struck the rocks at Proudfoot, Wick. Wick lifeboat took off her crew with great difficulty. The vessel became a total wreck.

1964 "CHANCE", a Wick seine-net boat, ran aground at Helman Head, south of Wick. Wick lifeboat managed to pull her clear and towed her to Wick. She was badly damaged but the crew were safe.

29 5.65 Fishing vessel "NORSEMAN" with two on board, grounded on Spur of Murkle. Towed clear by Thurso lifeboat on rising tide.

20. 5.65 Fishing vessel "CAMPERDOWN" of Aberdeen with crew of 3, aground near east side of Thurso Harbour. Towed clear at high water by Thurso lifeboat.

1965 "KINGSTON TURQUOISE", a Hull trawler homeward bound from Iceland fishing ground, struck the North Sheal, off Birsay Head, Orkney. She backed off the reef and sank in a few minutes. 19 of her crew got aboard their raft and were picked up by Stromness lifeboat about two hours after the vessel foundered. One of the crew failed to make the raft and was drowned.

1965 " BLUE CRUSADER", an Aberdeen trawler was lost without trace off the Orkney Islands. Her crew of 13 were presumed drowned.

1965 "RADIANT OUEEN", an Orkney fishing boat, struck the rocks on the north coast of Caithness. She was towed off by the Thurso seine-net boat" Maureen" and managed to make Scrabster, badly damaged.

21. 6.65 "HAPPY RETURN", a small sailing yacht, left Scrabster for a short pleasure trip, with the owner, Flight Commander Hunt, and the skippers of two local seine-net boats aboard. Later the yacht put into Castlehill with only the skipper of the "Maldon" aboard. The skipper of the "Ebeneezer" had fallen overboard in the Firth and Hunt had dived to save him. Both men were drowned. Hunt's body was washed up on Dunnet Sands that night.

16. 8.65 "LORWOOD", an Aberdeen trawler, and "SAMARIAN", a Grimsby trawler, were in collision west of Rora Head, Hoy. Both made Scrabster under their own power and necessary repairs were effected there.

23. 8.65 "MATHE NI EDERKIRCHENER", of Rostock, 8000 tons, an East German freighter homeward bound with a cargo of sugar from Havana, Cuba, went ashore on Muckle Skerry in dense fog. Evidently her radar had broken down. The crew, except for the captain and bosun, took to the ship's lifeboat and were guided by one of the lighthouse keepers to the landing stage where 47 persons, the crew and two passengers were safely landed. later the Longhope lifeboat took them to Orkney. Seven hours after going aground the vessel rolled off the rocks and sank. She was built only last year.

27.10.65 The Scrabster hand-line boat Victory, manned by Donald Mackenzie and Donald Reid, was out fishing and drifting in Scrabster Bay in clear calm weather when she was run down by the Buckie seine-netter Girl Mary. Mackenzie was thrown clear while Reid managed to cling to a bit of his shattered boat until both were hauled aboard the Girl Mary. Mackenzie was unconscious and never regained consciousness.

1965 The Lossiemouth seine-netter Rowan Tree was holed by a submerged rock off Dunnet Head. In answer to her distress call another Lossiemouth boat, the Leander, went to her assistance and took her in tow. Scrabster lifeboat was launched. Salvage pumps were taken out by the Primula while the Fire Brigade went out on the Prospective of Buckie. The Rowan Tree, lashed to the lifeboat and towed by the Leander, reached Scrabster where, after temporary repairs, she was towed to Buckie by the Leander.

12. 1.66 Fishing vessel " ROWAN TREE" reported sinking off Dunnet Head. Crew taken off by Thurso lifeboat and casualty towed to Scrabster by another vessel. Eventually grounded in harbour, pumped out and repaired.

12.66 After a collision at 6 a. m. off Holborn Head with the Wick seine-netter Gleaners II, the Fraserburgh boat Hazel, leaking badly, reached Scrabster but sank at the quay, with only her mast showing. After pumping, the hole was repaired temporarily and she was refloated and towed south for further repair.

2.2.67 The Norwegian " FLAMINGO", a 180 ton, 50 year old vessel, serving as a trawler in the summer and a 'klondyker' in the winter, broke down 5-1/2 miles off Duncansby Head and was towed towards Scrabster for 8 hours by another Norwegian vessel, the "BRUNHOLM". Near Scrabster the local "Primula" took over and towed her into the harbour. Next morning, after the engine trouble had been repaired, she left for Denmark with her cargo of fresh herring in ice from Ullapool.

3. 2.67 The "AVONDOW", Aberdeen's last steam trawler, limped into Scrabster with engine trouble. After repairs she proceeded on her way.

4. 2.67 On this Saturday the Grimsby trawler "ROSS FORTUNE" with a net fouling her propeller, the Ostend trawler "CAESAR" with trouble in her engines, radio and radar, and the Anstruther great-line trawler "SILVER CHORD" all called at Scrabster for repairs.

28. 7.68 Motor boat "HOLBORN HEAD' overdue whilst on passage from Stromness to Scrabster. Boat, with crew of 2, located west of Stroma by Thurso lifeboat and towed to Scrabster.

28. 7.68 Small boat "CHRISTMAS MORN" with 5 on board broken clown 2 miles N.E. of Scarfskerry. Located and towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat.

1969 "JAMES BARRIE", Hull trawler ashore on Little Skerry. Crew safe. Attempted tow by Kirkwall lifeboat and fishing boats failed. Trawler sank.

1969 "BEN BARVAS" ashore on Little Skerry. Crew saved by Longhope lifeboat - total wreck.

1969 "KATHE NIEDERKIRCHNER" ashore on Muckle Skerry. East German vessel. Cargo of sugar from Cuba to East Germany. 50 crew saved. Calm foggy weather.

1969 "GEORGE ROBB", Aberdeen trawler. S.E. gale - total loss of ship and crew on Stacks of Duncansby.

1969 "HASSETT", trawler ashore on Ruff of Aukengill. 5 crew lost remainder saved by L.S.A. Trawler total loss. Outward bound 18.9.53.

1969 "STAR OF VICTORY". Aberdeen trawler ashore Reiss Bay. Total loss.

1969 "JEAN STEPHEN". Aberdeen trawler ashore Reiss Bay, sheltering drifted ashore when weighing anchor.

1969 Longhope lifeboat lost with her crew. Capsized evening of 17th March 1969. At 13. 40 on the 18th March 1969 Thurso lifeboat found the upturned boat 4 miles south west of Tor Ness and towed her to Scrabster harbour.

12.12.70 Trawler "DONSIDE" broken down 3 miles north of Holborn Head, towed to Scrabster by "STAR DIVINE", escorted by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS, after the tow had twice parted in heavy seas.

"BENNACHIE" BF 216, fishing boat ashore on Ness of Duncansby. Crew saved by L.S.A. Boat later bought and taken by road to Wick. Bound east.

25. 3.71 Fishing vessel "GIRL MINA" with fouled propellor taken under tow by a trawler, off Duncansby Head.

"ST. WINSTAN" ashore Monos, Mey. Became total wreck.

16.5.71 Trawler "COASTAL EMPEROR" reported man overboard off Dunnet Head. Search carried out by trawler and Thurso lifeboat without success.

17. 5.71 Small lobster boat "BLOSSOM II" broken down off Thurso. Towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat.

"STELLATUS" whilst dodging for the flood tide. Cargo paper pulp. Went ashore near Buchollie. Total wreck.

1.1.1.71 Trawler "NOVENA" making water, taken under tow by "COASTAL EMPEROR" off Noup Head.

3. 11.71 Trawler "ROSS HAWK" broken down 4 miles NNW of Holborn Head, located and towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS.

21.12.71 Trawler "MOUNT MELLERY' grounded outside Scrabster harbour. Refloated on flood tide with Thurso lifeboat assistance and berthed in Scrabster.

23. 3.72 Trawler "ROSS LYNX" reported man missing presumed lost overboard. Thurso lifeboat joined "Ross Lynx" in search 10miles north of Holborn Head but nothing found.

19.3. 72 Small fishing vessel " BAILE-AN-OR" broken down and showing distress signals near rocks at Armadale. Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS towed her to Scrabster.

21. 8.72 Small boat "MAID OF THULE" missing with 2 men on board. After extensive search Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS found one body off Murkle. The second body was washed ashore at Dunnet Sands.

5.12.72 Swedish vessel "KORALL" ashore at Brims Ness. Crew of 9 taken off vessel by Coastguard Rescue Company.

9. 2.73 Grimsby trawler "ROSS TERN" GY 700 went ashore at night on SE end of Swona. Became a total loss. Crew rescued by Longhope lifeboat. 6 from liferaft, 5 from wreck. Ashore on little Windy Skerry.

15. 2.73 Lobster boat "GIOMACH" with 2 on board broken down near Dunnet Head. Towed to Scrabster by "GOLDEN CHANCE" escorted by Thurso lifeboat THREE SISTERS.

28. 3.73 Small boat with 2 men on board missing from Skerray. All night search by Thurso lifeboat found wreckage. Helicopter joined search at daylight, but no survivors found.

13. 9.73 Aberdeen trawler "COASTAL EMPRESS" a 455 went ashore off Huna slightly NW of the pier. Refloated apparently undamaged 20.00 hours some day.

5.12.73 NS gale force 12 throughout the night. Aberdeen trawler "NAVONA" FD172 went ashore on a reef east of Copinsay. Kirkwall lifeboat launched but crew rescued by helicopter.

15.12.73 Trawler "GLENCOE" towed trawler "GLEN MORRISTON" to a safe anchorage in Scrabster roads, escorted by Thurso lifeboat THREE SISTERS.

6. 2.74 Fishing vessels "PLOUGH" and "HEATHER ANNE" in heavy weather off Brims Ness, escorted to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS.

3. 3.74 Trawler "DALEWOOD" stranded on Dunnet Head. Trawler "SEALGAIR" took 6 survivors off liferaft and tug "CYCLONE" another liferaft with 6 on board. "Cyclone's" survivors transferred to Thurso lifeboat and landed at Scrabster.

Hull trawler "HULL CITY" badly holed in collision with Bulgarian cargo vessel. First reports trawler was to be beached in Sinclair Bay but arrived in Kirkwall lashed alongside tug "LLOYDSMAN" escorted by Kirkwall lifeboat.

7. 6.74 Speedboat "KAYALLUN" fired distress flares east of Thurso harbour. Towed by "CLEARWAY" to Scrabster, escorted by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS.

26. 9.74 Trawler "RED CRUSADER" stranded approximately 1/2 mile from Scrabster Harbour. Refloated unaided and escorted to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS.

12.12.74 Fishing vessel "BYDAND" with fouled propellor in Sandside Bay, towed to Scrabster by fishing vessel "CELERITY", escorted by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS.

31. 1.75. German trawler "THUMFISCH" wrecked on Pentland Skerries. Crew of 20 took to liferafts. Longhope lifeboat picked up 3 survivors. Remainder landed on Swona and later rescued.

22. 8.75 Trawler "CLARKWOOD stranded 8 miles west of Holborn Head. Crew taken off by Coastguard Rescue Company.

20.11.75 Cargo vessel "MONKSGARTH" suffered engine failure north of Holborn Head but effected repairs and proceeded on passage.

14.3.76 Yawl "SAXON" with engine failure off Holborn Head towed by DRUMBEAT to Scrabster.

12. 6.76S capsized yacht ''SPIRTLE" recovered and towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS."

28. 6. 76 Local fishing boat " VIKING" fired distress signals, after fouling propellor 1 mile north of Dunnet Head. Towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat.

2. 7.76 Small boat "RUBBER DUCK" with 2 on board suffered engine failure off Holborn Head. Towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat.

6. 5.77 Lobster boat "BONAMl" in difficulty off Bighouse Head during heavy weather. Escorted to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat.

6. 6.77 Motor yacht "ROMOLA" with 9 on board suffered steering failure 2 miles WSW of Dunnet Hood. Towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat.

31. 8.77 Fishing vessel "FORETHOUGHT" stranded at St. John's Point. Towed to Scrabster by Longhope lifeboat.

7. 3.78 Trawler "BOSTON LINCOLN" grounded on Scarf Rock (Holborn Head). Refloated with assistance from Thurso lifeboat and towed to Scrabster harbour.

12. 4.78 German tug "MERCUR" with engine failure 1-1/2 miles off Dunnet Head, towed to anchorage in Scrabster Roads by Thurso lifeboat THE THREE SISTERS.

15. 4.78 Trawler "STRATHELLIOT", stranded on Holborn Head and refloated with loss of steering, having lost rudder and part of propellor. Towed to Scrabster by Thurso lifeboat.

10. 7.78 Following an all night search Thurso lifeboat found a Gemini inflatable craft with 1 on board, 12 miles West of Tor Ness. The craft had suffered engine failure. The survivor was taken on board the lifeboat and the Gemini towed to Scrabster.

26.7.78 Scrabster boat "FAIRWAY" with 6 on board lost in dense fog. Located on radar by Thurso lifeboat and taken back to Scrabster.

16. 8.7 Small boat from Scrabster with 1on board in heavily breaking surf one mile west of Holborn Head recovered by Thurso lifeboat and towed to Scrabster.

2. 8. 79 Small boat with 2 youths on board suffered engine failure In heavily breaking surf off Claredon Point. Youths taken on board Thurso lifeboat and boat towed to Scrabster.

27. 5.80 Small boat with 3 men on board capsized In surf off Murkle. Two men reached shore. The third man's body was recovered by Thurso lifeboat and landed to ambulance at Scrabster.

19. 5.81 Small boat from Scrabster with 3 men and 2 children on board reported overdue. Search by Thurso lifeboat found the boat broken down off Holborn Head. Towed to Scrabster. ("LYDIA"?)