no.S52

Launch of Stratheden

10 Jul 1937

Stratheden launched, Top Yard Slipway, on 10th July 1937 at Vickers Armstrong, Barrow for P&O to use on its UK to Australia run. Requisitioned by the Admiralty during World War Two and extensively used as a troopship in both theatres of war. The photograph shows the vessel entering Walney Channel. Hold back chains are tight, slowing the vessel. Small boats are standing by to clear wooden debris while a small crowd of shipyard workers stands at channel side with a movie photographer.