‘As Kingsmill, the third to attack, levelled up for his torpedo drop, Samples saw that the fabric of the aircraft's wings had been torn by enemy flak and was full of holes. But the Swordfish flew on until a cannon shell hit the fuselage immediately between them, wounding both men. When the air gunner, Don Bunce, looked up from his Vickers machine gun, the bloody Samples was shouting directions at him and Kingsmill. Then, screaming insults at the Germans, Bunce shot down one plane while Kingsmill struggled to control the Swordfish. Samples was looking at the German gun crews in their sleek, black anti-flash overalls when he felt a sudden burning sensation in his leg. Looking down, he was astonished to see a neat pattern of holes in his flying boots. But although blood was oozing out, he felt no pain, and he failed to notice that Kingsmill had dropped his torpedo, aimed at Prinz Eugen from about 2,000 yards. With the aircraft on fire and ripped by the flak, Kingsmill struggled to maintain height. He tried to communicate with Samples, not realising that the speaking tube had been shattered. Despite his wounds, Samples climbed up and shouted into his ear: “We'll never make it, ditch near those MTBs" – pointing towards some British boats which had also attacked the Germans. Shortly afterwards the three men were pulled from the drink by friendly hands … ’ The fate of Swordfish W5907 on 12 February 1942, as described in the obituary notice of Lieutenant-Commander ‘Mac’ Samples, D.S.O.; The Daily Telegraph, August 2009, refers. The post-war diplomatic service C.M.G., O.B.E., and outstanding Second War ‘Channel Dash’ D.S.O. group of eight awarded to Lieutenant-Commander R. M. ‘Mac’ Samples, 828 Naval Air Squadron, Fleet Air Arm Flying immediately behind the force leader’s aircraft, as observer to ‘Pat’ Kingsmill in Swordfish W5907, amidst curtains of flak and swathes of cannon shell, Samples sustained extensive wounds, including a smashed ankle and leg, and shrapnel to his right hand, backside and lower back; of the six Swordfish that went in, none returned, just five airmen out of 18 living to tell the tale. The force’s leader, Lieutenant-Commander Eugene Esmonde, D.S.O., R.N., was awarded a posthumous V.C., a distinction which recognised the valour of all of 825’s participating aircrew: ‘Their aircraft shattered, undeterred by an inferno of fire, they carried out their orders, which were to attack the target. Not one came back. Theirs was the courage which is beyond praise’ The Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, C.M.G., Companion’s neck badge, silver-gilt and enamels, complete with neck cravat in its Spink, London case of issue; Distinguished Service Order, G.VI.R., silver-gilt and enamels, reverse of the suspension bar officially dated ‘1942’, with its Garrard & Co. case of issue; The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, O.B.E. (Civil), Officer’s 2nd type breast badge, silver-gilt; 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45; Nepal, Coronation Medal 1955, generally very fine or better (8) £30,000-£40,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- C.M.G. London Gazette 4 June 1971. D.S.O. London Gazette 3 March 1942 – joint citation: Temporary Acting Sub-Lieutenant (A.) Charles Major Kingsmill, R.N.V.R. Temporary Sub-Lieutenant (A.) Reginald McCartney Samples, R.N.V.R., who were Pilot and Observer of a Swordfish that was badly hit early in the action by cannon shells from an enemy fighter. Both were wounded but with part of the aircraft shot away, and the engine and upper wings in flames, they flew on undaunted until they had taken aim and fired their torpedo. They then turned and tried to come down near some ships, but these opened fire, so they flew on until their engine stopped and their aircraft came down into the sea. Soon afterwards they were picked up, still cheerful and dauntless, by one of H.M. vessels.’ O.B.E. London Gazette 1 January 1963. Reginald McCartney Samples was born in Liverpool on 11 August 1918 and was educated at Rhyl Grammar School and Liverpool University, where he was reading commerce when war was declared. It was direct from university that he joined the Fleet Air Arm in the summer of 1940 and, on completing his training as an observer, he was posted to No. 825 Naval Air Squadron (N.A.S.) in January 1942; some sources state that he was present in the Bismarck action of May 1941, whilst under training. Samples’ hitherto unpublished account of his part in the Channel Dash action, as requested by Commander Prentice, R.N., and dated at Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, Middlesex, on 26 June 1942, is reproduced here: ‘Sir, I have the honour to submit, as requested, a report on the operation carried out by 825 Squadron against the German warships Scharnhorst, Gneisenau and Prince Eugen in the Channel on Feb. 12th last. May I first of all thank you, sir, for your congratulatory letter and apologies for my belated reply due to difficulties in writing with a damaged hand. 825 Squadron, consisting of 6 Swordfish aircraft and led by Lt. Cdr. Esmonde, took departure over Ramsgate at 1220 on 12th Feb. at a height of 50 ft. to contact the German warships on a course of 142 (T). Kingsmill (my pilot), N.A. Bunce and myself were in ‘C’ machine of the first sub-flight, the second sub-flight being led by Lt. Thompson, R.N. Visibility was patchy and hazy over the sea (there were several feet of snow and ice on land) and though we sighted at about 4-5 miles, the Gneisenau and Eugen were only vaguely to be seen, Scharnhorst apparently being farther north and not visible. The enemy had a screen of destroyers and to make the run on Gneisenau we had to pass between two of them at a range of approx. 3 miles to port and starboard of us. Very heavy flak was encountered at this time and at about 5000 yds. We were attacked by a squadron of Me. 109s which peeled off from about 1500 ft. on our port quarter and came in singly from astern, setting all mainplanes on fire and destroying part of the tail unit and fuselage. Simultaneously, we were hit by flak coming up through the deck, and Kingsmill and myself were both wounded in the left foot and leg. It was very apparent that to maintain the run in would be ridiculous, particularly in the face of enemy F.W. 190s forming astern, so we took a staggering, avoiding turn to port, noticing as we did that the C.O., who had obviously been hit badly, stalled about 200 yds. ahead of us and hit the water. Our aircraft was rather difficult to manage but we were able to come round in a circle and make a second run. It is rather interesting to note here that we passed below the second sub-flight coming into the attack. They were tucked in very close formation – a fact which no doubt explains their total loss. On our second run we were again attacked by fighters but dropped our torpedo at about 2000 yds. and again took avoiding action. We did not claim a hit, as we did not wait and see! Our aircraft was in very bad shape and was lolloping rather than flying along; the rockets and distress signals in the dinghy were exploding in the wing and creating a sight that might have been pleasant to see could we have appreciated it at the time. I endeavoured to get a course home, and the A.G. took over look-out astern, but unfortunately some M.T.Bs which my pilot made for turned out to be E-boats and gave us a hot reception with...
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The impressive and important gold presentation cigar case given by General Baldomero Espartero, Duke of Victoria and Regent of Spain, to Lieutenant Frederick Lowe, R.N., on the occasion of the General’s flight from Spain to England in 1843 Presentation Gold Cigar Case, an impressive two-colour solid gold cigar case, applied on both sides with a finely cast and chased high relief knight in armour, the base with engraved presentation inscription ‘Given by Genl. Espartero, Duke of Victoria, to Lieut. Fredk. Lowe, R.N. 24th Septr. 1843’, indistinct Spanish hallmarks, 125mm x 60mm, the case tested as 14 carat gold, the appliqué mounts tested as 18 carat gold, total weight 260.47 gms, with old manuscript note ‘Given by Genl. Espartero, Duke of Victoria, to Lt. Fredk. Lowe, Commr. of H.M.S.V. Prometheus, Septr. 24th 1843, as a memento of his Excellcy’s arrival in England in that vefsel Augst. 23, 1843’, in original presentation case, an impressive object of outstanding quality and in excellent condition £4,000-£5,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, April 2004. Frederick Lowe was born on 30 October 1811, entered the Royal Naval College in March 1825, and first went to sea in December 1826. He saw service on the North American, Mediterranean, and South American stations and, in August 1834, accompanied an expedition sent from Lima to Para under the orders of Lieutenant Smyth for the purpose of exploring the Pachitca, Maranon, and Ucayali rivers. He received his commission as Lieutenant on 17 November 1837, and assumed command of the steam vessel Prometheus on 23 February 1843. In that ship he effected the escape of General Espartero from Spain by conveying him from Cadiz to England, where they arrived on 23 August 1843, much to the evident relief of the general. Baldomero Espartero, Duke of Victoria , Duke of Morella, Prince of Vergara, Count of Luchana, Spanish general and statesman (1793-1879). Espartero fought against the French in the Peninsula War, and later against the revolutionaries in South America. After the death of Ferdinand VII in 1833, he supported Isabella II against the Carlists and won important victories in the Carlist War of 1834-39. His agreement with the Carlist general Rafael Maroto at Vergara in 1839 practically ended the war, and in the following year he was rewarded with the title Duque de la Victoria [Duke of Victory]. As a member of the Progressive party in the Cortes from 1837, Espartero played an important political role. His opposition to the Queen Regent, Maria Christina, helped force her to leave the country in 1840. The following year Espartero was made Regent by the Cortes and became virtual dictator of Spain. His ruthless suppression of opposition, notably at Barcelona, soon made him highly unpopular. In 1843 a general uprising took place and the rebels, declaring Queen Isabella to be of age, marched on Madrid, led by General Narvaez. Espartero, driven from office, embarked in the Royal Navy steam vessel Prometheus at Cadiz on 30 July 1843, and fled to England, where he remained until 1847. He was then restored to his honours and lived in retirement in Logrono until 1854, when he was placed by Isabella at the head of the Progressive party, but resigned in July 1856. After the expulsion of Isabella in 1868, he supported the provisional government, and in 1870 several members of the Cortes offered him the crown of Spain, but he declined it on the grounds of his great age and want of heirs.
The outstanding Victorian gold K.C.B. group of five awarded to Admiral Sir Edward Sotheby, Royal Navy, who was awarded the C.B. and mentioned in despatches on 13 occasions for his protracted command of Pearl’s Naval Brigade in the Indian Mutiny; he further received the Thanks of both Houses of Parliament, the Governor-General of India and the Admiralty and was appointed an Extra A.D.C. to Queen Victoria The Most Honourable Order of the Bath, K.C.B. (Military) Kinght Commander’s set of insignia, comprising neck badge, 18 carat gold and enamels, hallmarked London 1862, and breast star, silver, with gold and enamel appliqué centre; Naval General Service 1793-1840, 1 clasp, Syria (E. S. Sotheby, Lieut. R.N.); Indian Mutiny 1857-58, no clasp (Capt. Edwd. S. Sotheby, C.B. Pearl.); St Jean D’Acre 1840, silver, some minor chipping to wreaths of the Bath insignia, otherwise generally good very fine (5) £9,000-£12,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- K.C.B. Queen’s Birthday Honours, May 1875. Edward Southwell Sotheby was born in Clifton on 14 March 1813, second son of Admiral Thomas Sotheby (1759-1831) by his second wife, Lady Mary Anne, fourth daughter of Jospeh Deane Bourke, 3rd Earl of Mayo. After attending the Royal Naval College, Portsmouth, he first went to sea in 1828 and was promoted to Lieutenant in October 1835. A tour in the flagship Caledonia in the Mediterranean having ensued, he next joined, as First Lieutenant, the corvette Dido, in which capacity he saw action in the Syrian operations of 1840 and was advanced to Commander in October 1841. In June 1846, he was appointed to command the sloop Racehorse, in which he participated in operations in the disturbances in China and New Zealand, followed by a tour of duty in command of the Sealark in the suppression of the slave trade off the coast of Africa. As observed by W. E. F. Ward in his history of the suppression of the Atlantic slave trade, The Royal Navy and the Slavers, ‘the Navy found close inshore patrolling was a much more effective way of throttling the slave trade than making wide sweeps on the sea lanes.’ It was a challenging business, investigating estuaries blocked by sand bars and peering into countless swampy creeks and lagoons, a business which led to numerous, sometimes fatal, cases of fever and malaria. As recounted by Ward, Sotheby and the Sealark undertook just such activities and, in March-April 1852, the former’s persistence paid off when he captured a Spanish slave brigantine, but only after intense investigation of possible hideouts on the Rio Grande in Portuguese Guinea. It transpired a Spanish trader, who had an operational pseudonym, was covertly involved in slavery activity with local chiefs. Having carried out no less than 14 thorough but fruitless searches of creeks, Sotheby decided to interrogate the Spaniard and search his lodgings. Nothing appeared to be untoward, but Sotheby remained convinced of the Spaniard’s guilt and, remaining in the area, offered a 100-dollar reward for further information. His enticement did the trick, an African reporting he had knowledge of a slave brigantine and its whereabouts. And so it proved, the ‘fully equipped’ camouflaged vessel being located in a narrow side creek: unable to shift it from its anchorage, Sotheby blew it up. As it transpired, the African informant gave good value for his money, for he then took Sotheby to a hut which he said belonged to a local chief. Inside, the naval party found a hoard of muskets and assorted slave shackles, a discovery that was quickly followed by the appearance of a native on the scene. He had escaped captivity but said 19 of his tribe were still being held in the chief’s village, about three miles distant in the bush, held in readiness for an exchange with the Spaniard and his fellow slavers. Sotheby sent word to the chief that the remaining captives were to be brought down to him the following day, failing which he would burn down his village. The slaves were indeed released the following day, for the chief had decided the game was up, and with them he turned over another Spaniard. The freed slaves also identified two other local chiefs as being equally guilty, even though each of them had signed a treaty abjuring the slave trade for ever. Suffice it to say, the slaves were taken to Freetown for liberation, and the Spaniards sent for trial. As far back as 1816, the West African Squadron had been ordered to ‘diligently look into the bays and creeks’ in hunting down slavers. Over 35 years later, Sotheby did just that, thereby highlighting the Royal Navy’s unrelenting commitment to ending the abhorrent slave trade. He was commended for his actions and advanced to Captain in September 1852. He next took command of the corvette Pearl on the East Indies station and, in July 1857, on the receipt of news of the outbreak of the Indian Mutiny, the Pearl, together with the frigate Shannon, under Captain William Peel, was sent from Hong Kong to Calcutta. Sotheby subsequently took command of the Pearl’s Naval Brigade, which was landed in September and for the following 15 months lent valuable service in the operations in the Oudh. The extent of those operations is recorded in the pages of The Naval Brigades of the Indian Mutiny 1857-58, by Commander W. B. Rowbotham, R.N., Navy Records Society, Vol. 87, 1947. But by way of summary, the following major actions are worthy of note, Sotheby having described them at length in his official reports: The attack on Sohunpore on 20 December 1857, when the rebels were ejected from their entrenchments; the capture of the fort at Chanderpur on 16 February 1858, when the bluejackets went into action with the Sikhs and Gurkhas; the capture of the fort at Nourainie Ghat on the Oudh side of the river on 18 February 1858 and the attack on the rebels at Phoolpur on 20 February 1858, when three guns were captured. Such engagements were often of a hotly contested nature, with resultant casualties, Pearl’s 250-strong force of bluejackets eventually suffering a loss of one officer and 17 men killed, and a further 16 wounded. By way of example of such actions, the following account of the capture of the fort at Nourainie Ghat on 18 February 1858 is quoted: ‘At 10 p.m. [on 19 February 1858], I crossed over to the opposite bank, with the force as per margin, to occupy the village and fort of Narinee, the men wading up to their waists, had much difficulty in landing the guns. Not having any spy, or knowing the precise position, and it being very dark, it was midnight when the marines and a party of seamen, under Lieutenant F. G. Pym and Mr. Ingles, got round to the right, through thick jungles, and passing the outer breastworks and other defences found the fort evacuated, whilst the other party with the guns under Lieutenant Turnour, had crept round to the left; we then bivouacked for the night, and conveyed over our baggage and ammunition the following forenoon, under the direction of that enterprising officer Lieutenant H. D. Grant. Being joined by 1,000 Goorkhas and six guns, the force named in the margin, all under Colonel Rowcroft, left their encampment at two p.m. the same day, to attack the enemy, who had advanced in the morning to retake their abandoned positions. Having passed over a tract of very heavy country, through several thick topes of trees and deserted villages, at five p.m. we discovered the enemy's position, by their opening a fire from their guns as we came over the hill; ours were immediately got into position, and l returned shrapn...
The notable Second War Immediate D.F.M. group of five awarded to Flying Officer A. H. Horry, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve, a Bomb Aimer in No. 9 Squadron in the decisive attack on the Tirpitz on 12 November 1944 Distinguished Flying Medal, G.VI.R. (1332586 F/Sgt. A. H. Horry. R.A.F.); 1939-45 Star; France and Germany Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, mounted as worn, good very fine (5) £7,000-£9,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- D.F.M. London Gazette 30 January 1945. The original recommendation states: ‘As Air Bomber, this N.C.O. has taken part in many sorties including the last two attacks on the German battleship Tirpitz. On the first attack which was undertaken from a Russian base, he gave great assistance to his captain, by successfully map reading in very bad visibility, but was prevented from taking part in the attack by the unserviceability of his aircraft. On the last two attacks, which necessitated very long journeys, Flight Sergeant Horry again assisted his pilot and navigator by the accuracy of his map reading. In the actual bombing of his targets he has shown the greatest coolness and steady determination to drop his bombs upon the target. He has at all times shown the greatest keenness to operate and has proved a most valuable member of a very good crew.’ Remarks by Base Commander: ‘A key member of a very good bombing team. For his share in the successful attack on Tirpitz I recommend the award of the Distinguished Flying Medal.’ Arthur Henry Horry was born at Bungay, Norfolk, on 10 September 1923, and enlisted in the Royal Air Force in January 1941. Having undertaken training in Canada, he returned to the U.K. in March 1943 and was advanced to Flight Sergeant at the end of the year. In June 1944, he commenced his first operational tour as a Bomb Aimer in No. 106 Squadron, a Lancaster unit based at R.A.F. Metheringham. Over the coming weeks, he completed 19 sorties, mainly to France, including strikes against the V.1 weapon sites at Saint-Leu-d’Esserent in early July and at Trossy St. Maxim on successive nights in early August. Transferring to No. 9 Squadron in September 1944, he undertook specialist training at R.A.F. Bardney in readiness for the Tirpitz operations, and participated in a successful ‘Tallboy’ strike on the Sorpe Dam on 15 October 1944. His first Tirpitz mission was curtailed by poor weather but, on 29 October 1944, he and his crew reached their designated target, as confirmed by the squadron’s operational record book: ‘Primary attacked at 0855 hours … centre of ship in [Horry’s] bomb sight. Light and heavy flak moderate to light from shore batteries and Tirpitz, which was also firing heavy guns from aft. Rear Gunner saw a direct hit on the bows of the Tirpitz, followed by a big explosion and column of brown smoke.’ But it took another strike to finish the job, namely Operation ‘Catechism’ flown on the 12 November 1944, a task delegated to 9 and 617 Squadrons under the overall command of Wing Commander J. B. ‘Willy’’ Tait, D.S.O., and undertaken from a base in Russia. The attack was a resounding success, three direct hits in quick succession causing Tirpitz to capsize. Horry’s role as Bomb Aimer was patently a crucial one and it’s not without interest that No. 9 Squadron claimed it was their aircraft that obtained the vital hits. And it was to the Wireless Operator in Horry’s Lancaster that fell the duty of signalling H.Q. in the event of Tirpitz’s demise, a duty duly fulfilled and the news rapidly passed to the B.B.C. for a broadcast was made as the Lancaster crews were still over Norway. Horry was subsequently among ten aircrew to be recommended for a decoration on the same occasion, the rest of them being awarded the D.F.C., thereby making his D.F.M. a unique squadron award. The covering notes for the recommendations state: ‘These members of aircraft crew have each completed many operational missions and have displayed the highest standard of keenness and determination throughout. On 12 November 1944, they participated in the decisive attack on the German warship Tirpitz, a target against which all of them had previously been in action. On this last occasion the big battleship was sunk. The success achieved reflects the greatest credit on the efforts of these members of aircraft crew who, in their various capacities as pilots, navigators and air bombers displayed skill, courage and resolution of a high order.’ Horry went on to complete his operational tour, attacking specialist targets such as U-boat pens, viaducts and flying-bomb sites. Commissioned in February 1945, he was finally discharged as a Flying Officer in February 1946. Sold with two original letters from the recipient, which outline his wartime career, an aircrew reunion photograph, and copied research.
The unique Great War Red Sea operations C.G.M. group of nine awarded to Sergeant J. F. McLaughlin, Royal Marine Light Infantry, who was decorated for his gallant deeds at the capture of Salif in June 1917 Conspicuous Gallantry Medal, G.V.R. (P.O. 8873. Sergt. J. F. McLaughlin, R.M.L.I. H.M.S. Topaze. Salif. 12. June 1917); China 1900, 1 clasp, Relief of Pekin (P.O. 8873. J. F. McLaughlin, Pte., R.M., Nav. Depot. Wei-Hai-Wei.); Naval General Service 1915-62, 1 clasp, Persian Gulf 1909-1914 (P.O. 8873. Corpl. J. F. McLaughlin. R.M.L.I. H.M.S. Proserpine); 1914-15 Star (P.O. 8873. Sgt. J. F. McLaughlin. R.M.L.I.); British War and Victory Medals (P.O. 8873 Sgt. J. F. McLaughlin. R.M.L.I.); Naval Good Shooting Medal, E.VII.R. (P.O. 8873. Cpl. J. F. McLaughlin, H.M.S. Hermione. 1910. 6 In. Q.F.); Royal Navy L.S. & G.C., G.V.R., 1st issue (P.O. 8873 J. F. McLaughlin, Corporal R.M.L.I.); France, 3rd Republic, Medaille Militaire, silver, silver-gilt and enamel, contact marks, otherwise very fine or better (9) £12,000-£16,000 --- Importation Duty This lot is subject to importation duty of 5% on the hammer price unless exported outside the UK --- --- Provenance: Dix Noonan Webb, June 1999. A unique combination of awards to the Royal Marines. C.G.M. London Gazette 11 August 1917: ‘For conspicuous gallantry at the capture of Salif on the 12 June 1917. Just before the surrender he came across 11 unwounded and 1 wounded Turkish soldiers. Followed by one Petty Officer, Sergeant McLaughlin jumped among them, shot one, and made seven surrender.’ James Francis McLaughlin was born in Gibraltar on 6 January 1878, and joined the Royal Marine Light Infantry at Eastney in January 1897. Among those landed with the North China Field Force in July 1900, he took part in the relief of Pekin operations in the following month, in addition to serving at the R.M. depot at Wei-Hei-Wei. Advanced to Corporal in February 1902, he subsequently qualified as a gun layer and 2nd captain of gun and, whilst serving in H.M.S. Hermione in 1910, he was awarded the Naval Good Shooting Medal for his skills on her 6-inch Quick Firing gun. Having then witnessed active service in the Persian Gulf aboard the Proserpine, he added the L.S. & G.C. Medal to his accolades in August 1912. Advanced to Sergeant in June 1913, McLaughlin was serving in the battleship Queen on the outbreak of hostilities, and he quickly saw action off Gallipoli during the landings in April 1915. Transferring to the Topaze in the Adriatic in February 1916, he participated in operations in support of the Regia Marina, prior to her transfer to the East Indies station in March 1917. Red Sea C.G.M. Operating out of Aden, Topaze saw action against the Turks in support of the South Arabian campaign, her guns contributing to the bombardment of enemy positions on the island of Kamaran on 10 June 1917. But it was for his deeds in a related action at Salif two days later that McLaughlin was awarded his C.G.M., when Topaze and her consorts closed the enemy batteries and landed parties of Marines and bluejackets to capture the position. Salif lies on a peninsula, the north end of which is a mud flat covered at high tide by the sea. On the east side of the village is a hill with a hollow depression in its face, in which the enemy garrison took up their position, when the ships approached at dawn on the 12th; here they were well screened from the fire of the ships. The Espiegle entered the inlet between the peninsula and the mainland, so as to bring a cross fire on the place. The Northbrook went close inshore at the south end of the peninsula; Minto, Topaze and Odin made a line to the north of her, as near the shore as possible. The Topaze and Odin ran in so close that the enemy could not depress their guns sufficiently to reach them. The Turks had two Krupp mountain guns and three one-inch Nordenfeldts; their shells did no harm as they had to be laid so that their line of fire would clear the crater. The Northbrook’s men landed at the south end of the peninsula and took up a position on the right of the town, the others all landed at the pier and extended behind a ridge, which was flanked by a salt mine on the south, and by houses on the north. The Royal Marines were in the centre of the line. The Odin’s seamen entered the village and took possession of the condensing plant and the telegraph office. Commander A. R. Woods, D.S.O., R.N., of the Topaze, was in command, with Commander Salmond second-in-command; there was no Royal Marine officer present. The ships’ guns fired a barrage on the hill, and under cover of this the parties advanced and gained the foot of the hill. The attack was directed against three sides, the fourth being closed by the Espiegle. At a given signal, the hill was rushed and they completely surrounded the Turks, who made a good fight, the engagement lasting for over three hours. In the course of the fighting, McLaughlin encountered 12 Turkish soldiers and went for them single handed, followed by one Petty Officer, and between them they shot one, took seven prisoner and the rest bolted. He and two Naval ratings were subsequently awarded the C.G.M., whilst Commander Woods was awarded a Bar to his D.S.O. McLaughlin remained employed in the Topaze until the summer of 1918, when he returned home to an appointment in the Portsmouth Division. He was demobilised and pensioned ashore in October 1919. Sold with his original parchment Certificates of Service (2), and another on paper; Certificate of Discharge and Character Certificate on Demobilisation; Pension Certificate for Conspicuous Gallantry, and a postcard photograph of McLaughlin and other Royal Marines aboard H.M.S. Topaze in 1917.
Fifteen friendship albums and books, late 19th c and later, typically inscribed in manuscript with sentiment, verse and wit, some signatures, with approx. 102 original watercolour, pen-and-ink, &/or pencil illustrations and drawings, including a pen-&-ink of 'Letitia Fairfax as I saw her in "Oliver Twist" 1905 (from memory)', 1935 silhouette of a gentleman by a telephone box, named-view of Arundel Castle, HMS Resolution 1918, other First World War, cartoons and caricatures, flowers, etc., mixed bindings and sizes, (15)
Juvenalia - a G.W.R. Jig-Saw Puzzle The Vikings Landing at St. Ives, boxed (unchecked); Ideal Games Mouse Trap Game, (unchecked); a vintage Mouse Factory electric toothbrush; Britains 4F Tumbrel Cart; Britains farm buildings; farm animals; vintage Playcraft plastic trainset comprising locomotive, carriages and track; vintage Lego including boxed set 103 (af), loose bricks etc.
Registration – F390 NVUChassis No. – WF0BXXGCABKJ84859M.O.T. – NOOdometer – 47,500This 1989 Ford Escort RS Turbo is a desirable Series Two model in a very 1980s shade of red. The vendor describes it as being in ‘good’ condition throughout, with the condition of the paintwork aided by a respray during their stewardship. It has been off the road for the past few years due to the vendor’s ill health. This is why it currently does not have an MOT, but they say it will pass. ‘F390NVU’ also doesn’t have much history, but its highly original condition speaks for itself – given how many similar Escort RS Turbo were treated to a ‘Max Power’ makeover, this alone make ‘F390NVU’ a true survivor. Records show ‘F390NVU’ is a car built in 1989 that was imported into the UK from a right-hand drive market in 1995. The odometer currently reads 47,500 miles, and the vendors says this is believed to be genuine, through checking the DVLA website and the car’s MOT history. Original Ford Escort RS Turbo features such as the alloy wheels, bonnet vents and Recaro sports seats are present and correct. This car also has a sliding glass sunroof and an upgraded Alpine sound system. The Ford Escort RS Turbo was first seen in Series One guise. A development of the Mk3 Escort, it went on sale in early 1985 as a high-performance halo car. Originally, Ford intended to built 5,000 cars, to meet Group A homologation requirements. However, customer demand saw more than 8,600 built, almost all in Diamond White. Its popularity meant a Mk4 Ford Escort RS Turbo, called Series Two, was quickly introduced in 1986. This was a more well-rounded machine, with diligent development by Ford’s crack SVE engineers resolving criticisms of the original. It was now available in a broader range of colours, including iconic 1980s red, gaining a reputation as a more subtle but also more able Ford Escort performance car. · 1989 Ford Escort RS Turbo resplendent in red· Described as being in ‘good’ condition throughout· Has been stored off the road for the past few years
Registration – SDX 894Chassis No. – Z87C/146013YM.O.T. – ExemptOdometer – 126,000Beautifully presented, this example of Ford’s first-generation Consul Cortina is a five-door estate version, and presented in tasteful grey bodywork with white side-stripe following the shoulder line. Powered by Ford’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder Kent engine, here it drives the rear wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox. With its wide grille, ‘Consul’ branding towards the leading edge of the bonnet, and wing-mirrors placed forward of the windscreen, ‘SDX 894’ retains many of its original features. Inside, the cabin is trimmed in blue, with upholstery, door cards, dash top, and steering wheel sharing the same shade. In Deluxe 1500 trim, the door tops and dashboard are body-coloured, while the front seats are a single bench, with a column-mounted shifter allowing for an additional passenger in the front.‘SDX 894’ is offered with a very good history of ownership and has been cherished by fans of the MkI Cortina. In fact, it has previously been owned by the second member of the MkI Cortina Owners Club, and is currently in the hands of the Chairman. As such, it has been cherished, and the vendor describes the bodywork, paint, and interior as in ‘good’ condition, while the engine, transmission, and electrics are ‘average’ for this model. Described as ‘running well’, ‘SDX 894’ benefits from a new servo, disc brakes upgrade with copper brake pipes, a stainless steel exhaust, electronic ignition, and wax-oiled doors. Displaying an indicated 126,700 miles, this example of the Consul Cortina MkI has been carefully looked after, despite having gone once around the clock, and been recorded as a Category C write-off.· Fine example of Ford’s first-generation Consul Cortina· Long history of ownership· Practical classic with front bench seat and estate rearFord introduced the Consul Cortina MkI in 1962, replacing the Consul, with a design from Roy Abbott Brown Jr – recently dispatched to Ford of Britain after his Edsel was not well received Stateside. His career in the UK certainly didn’t suffer the same fate. Available as a two- or four-door saloon, or five-door estate, the Consul Cortina was designed to be a best-seller from the off, and came with a choice of engines and transmissions. The Consul name, retained from the previous model and combined with the 1956 Winter Olympics-inspired ‘Cortina’ badge, was dropped in 1964, as Ford saw a comprehensive marketing campaign, including race and rally-success, keep the MkI in production until 1966.
Registration – Q786 DPGChassis No. – EC95SE3637M.O.T. – NOOdometer – 46,097This racy-looking Westfield SE, finished in rich maroon, is a car that’s clearly been honed by an enthusiast. It is powered by a 2.1-litre Ford Escort Pinto engine, which produces 150bhp. The engine has a Kent FR32 fast road cam, twin Dellorto 40’s, and a Ford EDIS ignition module replacing the distributor. There’s a Megajolt ignition control and new leads, all topped off by a chrome Burton Power rocker cover. With a kerbweight of just 590kg, the rebuilt engine, which cost £7k, ensures performance is electrifying. ‘Q786DPG’ was registered as a kit car in February 1996; just a few years later, it attended the Goodwood Festival of Speed, according to a sticker in the windscreen. Carbon fibre front fenders complement the classic headlights, and there’s a matt carbon fibre bonnet for added contrast. The 15-inch alloys are black too, and shod in premium Uniroyal tyres. A side-exit exhaust adds to its potency, while a collection of motorsport stickers point to enthusiast ownership. A hood is included too. Inside, its paired-back cabin has bucket seats fitted with Westfield-branded harnesses, and a leather steering wheel. There’s an array of premium Stack dials for volts, oil pressure and water temperature, but otherwise the interior is minimalist. Westfield Sportscars was founded in 1982 in Kingswinford as a rival to Caterham Cars. Its kits were very similar to the Lotus Seven-derived Caterham Seven – so much so, Caterham threatened litigation. This saw Westfield change the styling of its cars, which allowed it to move away from the traditional approach followed by Caterham. It introduced independent rear suspension, along with models powered by superbike engines – there was even a turbocharged Westfield. The company has since been bought out of insolvency and relocated to Bicester. · 1996 Westfield SE· 2.1-litre Ford Pinto engine produces around 150bhp· Performance-focused setup with premium Uniroyal tyres
Registration – ST03 FLGChassis No. – WF05XXGBB53D31638M.O.T. – February 2026Odometer – 131,500Resplendent in Ford’s lustrous Infra Red, this example of the performance Mondeo ST220 is offered at no reserve. Powered by the firm’s 3.0-litre V6, ‘ST03 FLG’ features a five-speed manual gearbox, and the flagship Mondeo put out more than 220hp when new. This five-door hatchback model features the 16-spoke alloy wheels, and discreet spoiler and bumper kit that made it so popular with those wanting a ‘Q-Car’ in its time. Although also popular model for use as unmarked police cars, few constabulary models would feature the red leather interior found in ‘ST03 FLG’, or its factory-fitted heated sports Recaro seats up front.Displaying an indicated 135,947 miles on the odometer, this Mondeo ST220 has been carefully looked after, with a well-documented history. In fact, the current vendor has owned the Ford for the past 17 years, and the service book has 14 stamps in it. ‘ST03 FLG’ comes with owners’ manuals, as well as invoices from over the years, which include recent work carried out such as a new clutch and master cylinder fewer than five years ago, a last service in April of last year, and MOT with no advisories. The seller rates ‘ST03 FLG’ highly, reckoning all aspects of the Mondeo ST220 are ‘good’, including the engine, transmission, electrics, bodywork, paint, and interior.· Offered at no reserve· Flagship Mondeo of its day· Cherished example with high equipment levelsFord’s Mondeo range was launched in 1993, pitched as a ‘world car’, with Ford wanting to offer the same model in multiple markets, and design shared between the company’s US and European bases. It proved a huge hit in the UK, with the phrase ‘Mondeo Man’ even coined, using Ford’s family saloon moniker and further adding to its reputation. The first generation survived until 2000, when it was replaced with the second generation model – the MkII name had been used in the previous generation to describe a comprehensive facelift. This second generation Mondeo also saw the arrival of the ST220 – the flagship model in the range, featuring a newly-developed 3.0-litre V6. It was well received by the motoring press of the time for not only its punchy performance, but also its handling prowess, something shared across much of the Ford passenger car range of the time. As such, the Mondeo ST220 is quickly becoming a ‘modern classic’. It lasted until 2007, when the third generation Mondeo was launched.
Registration – F255 DKOChassis No. – VF320CB6201557777M.O.T. – January 2026Odometer – 136,044This iconic 1988 Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6, offered at No Reserve, is certain to be sought-after. It has recently been fully recommissioned following an extended period of dry storage – it has been off the road for an incredible 25 years. This is evidenced by the car having just three former keepers, with the first and second owning it for an extended period between 1988 and 2015. It was originally owned by Dixons Motor Group. The recommissioning of ‘F255DKO’ saw it fitted with a new clutch and tyres, a new cambelt and a full service including the brakes. The very rare original alloy wheels were professionally refurbished, and it passed an MOT with no advisories – it is valid until January 2026. This further enhances a service history that features 16 previous service stamps, while all the original sales brochure and books are included. The odometer reads 136,000 miles and the vendor says the original interior is a real standout, rating it as being in ‘excellent’ condition. The famous Peugeot 205 GTI is one of the most iconic cars of the 1980s, and a certain contender for the title of best hot hatch ever. Enthusiasts particularly rate the 1.6-litre version, for its purer handling and better steering feel, while the ultra-smooth engine and simply brilliant gearbox are as much of a highlight as the pin-sharp and incredibly nimble handling. With highly original Peugeot 205 GTI examples becoming super-rare, this car presents a particularly unique opportunity to acquire an unmolested car, with just three former keepers and a great history, that could become a gold standard reference car in years to come. That ‘F255DKO’ is being offered at No Reserve simply adds further to its auction hall desirability. · 1988 Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6 offered at No Reserve· Fully recommissioned after 25 years off the road· Ready to drive with a full service and advisory-free MOT
**Collection of 10 Vintage 7-inch Vinyl Singles Featuring Kate Bush and Atlantic Records Releases** A group of ten 7-inch vinyl records, including notable releases from Kate Bush and Atlantic Records, all featuring original sleeves. Spanning genres and time periods, this collection comprises: 1. *Kate Bush – Sat in Your Lap:* Original sleeve with surreal artwork of Kate Bush balancing a globe while wearing a cone hat. Released under EMI. 2. *Kate Bush – On Stage:* Red and green bold text with a live performance image of Kate Bush in a theatrical pose. 3. *Kate Bush – December Will Be Magic Again:* Festive sleeve featuring whimsical holiday-themed artwork. 4. *Tyrannosaurus Rex – Debora (1968):* Produced by Tony Visconti, featuring Marc Bolan. Label includes an illustration of a fly and Essex Music Ltd. credits. 5. *Kate Bush – Kite (1977):* Early EMI release with red and beige label design, produced by Andrew Powell. 6. *Atlantic Records – Memphis Soul Stew/Sock It to 'Em J.B. (1966):* King Curtis and Rex Garvin tracks on the iconic Atlantic label. 7. *Atlantic Oldies Series – Suite: Judy Blue Eyes (CSN):* Featuring 1960s classic rock hit with a black and gold Atlantic logo sleeve. 8. *Atlantic Records – Cool Jerk/Some Kind of Wonderful (Capitols & Soul Brothers Six, 1966/1969):* Vintage mono promotional vinyl. 9. *Don Covay – See Saw/Mercy, Mercy (1964/1967):* Soul tracks on Atlantic, manufactured in the UK with mono-enhanced playback. 10. *Atlantic Masters Limited Edition:* Black sleeve with alternate track listings. All singles are standard 7-inch vinyl, varying from 45 RPM to extended play (E.P.) formats. This collection includes rare, limited editions and iconic releases that are representative of their respective eras. A fine addition for collectors of vintage vinyl music.
WWI Imperial German Army Butcher Bayonet Model 1898 02This impressive WWI Imperial German Army Butcher Bayonet, also known as the Model 1898/02, features a formidable overall length of 19.5 inches, with its distinctive serrated/saw-backed blade measuring 14.25 inches. The bayonet exhibits notable historical wear, evident in its tarnished metal components and aged, grooved wooden handle, which is reinforced by two attachment rivets and a metal guard with a downward-curving quillon. Although the inscriptions on the blade are difficult to decipher due to the age, they add to the authenticity and historical value of this piece. This bayonet is a noteworthy collector's item, encapsulating the essence of WWI military history and the craftsmanship of early 20th-century German armaments.
A Homelite ST-385 petrol strimmer, chain saw and various tools. The strimmer L172cm, the serial number and model of the chainsaw is rubbed off and is missing the blade, the tools including wrenches, a motor, bolts, etc.All items in this auction are sold as seen, We are unable to provide condition reports or additional photos.
Strawberry spoon, saw-out model 1064 by Christa Ehrlich, Voorschoten 1942, silver. Very beautiful strawberry spoon with openwork scoop, made in model 1064 after a design by Christa Ehrlich. The Netherlands, Voorschoten, Zilverfabriek Voorschoten, 1942, hallmarks: lion 2, Minerva, maker's mark, year letter H. 91 grams, 833/1000. Dimensions L 21 cm, W 6.2 cm.
United States of America, Half-Dollar, 1860o, SS Republic (W-04; KM A68). Salt water damage, otherwise good very fine [Graded by NGC as SHIPWRECK EFFECT] £200-£300 --- The SS Republic (originally named the SS Tennessee) was a cargo steamship based in New Orleans for much of the 1850s. At the outbreak of the Civil War, she was seized by the Confederacy, though only saw a short service due to her recapture by the Union in April 1862. Used extensively thereafter as a gunboat, cargo ship, and troop carrier, she was returned to civilian service and renamed in March 1865. Not long after, however, the Republic was caught in a hurricane off the coast of Georgia. She sank with no loss of life, but was carrying over $400,000 worth of gold and silver coinage. Many of these coins were recovered in a 2003 excavation, including the example on offer.
A lost parcel of CRVX Pennies from the 1886 Isleworth Hoard Æthelred II (978-1016), 1. Penny, CRVX type, Barnstaple, Beorhtsige, byrhsige [–]o bard, 1.44g/2h (BEH 25; N 770; S 1148) 2. Penny, CRVX type, Canterbury, Goldwine, goldp[–]-o cæntp, 1.44g/3h (BEH 135; N 770; S 1148) 3. Penny, CRVX type, Exeter, Edric, edric m-o eaxc[–], 1.29g/2h (BEH 519; N 770; S 1148) 4. Penny, small CRVX type, Cambridge, Ælfric, alfric m[––]ant, 1.05g/5h (BEH 1140-1; N 770 var.; S 1149) 5. Penny, CRVX type, London, Eadmund, eadm[––]d m-o lvn, 1.21g/5h (BEH 2335; N 770; S 1148) 6. Penny, CRVX type, London, Godric, godric [––]nd, 1.18g/2h (BEH 2581; N 770; S 1148) 7. Penny, CRVX type, London, Leofstan, leofsta[–] lvn, 1.24g/12h (BEH 2719; N 770; S 1148) 8. Penny, CRVX type, Rochester, Eadsige, edsige m-o [–]fe, 1.17g/12h (BEH 3282; N 770; S 1148) 9. Penny, CRVX type, London, Eadwold, eadp[––] lvn, 1.13g/2h (BEH 2424; N 770; S 1148) 10. Penny, CRVX type, Maldon, Aelfwine, ael[––]aeld, 0.91g/9h (BEH 3069-70; N 770; S 1148) 11. Penny, CRVX type, Uncertain mint, possibly London or Thetford, Eadwerd, edperd m-o [–], 1.20g/12h (BEH 2468-70 or 3723; N 770; S 1148) 12. Penny, CRVX type, Uncertain mint, Eadwold, eadpold m[–], 1.08g/8h (N 770; S 1148) Together with seven small fragments. Fair to good fine with consistent hoard patination; none of the coins complete, but most quite identifiable and some recognisable in Grueber’s 1886 listing; a most interesting study group which serves to revise our understanding of this academically important hoard; very rare as a group to commerce £1,000-£1,500 --- Provenance: Found as part of the Isleworth Hoard of Anglo Saxon Pennies in 1886, and recorded (in part) at the time by H.A. Grueber of the British Museum. On the 11th March 1886 labourers sinking foundations in the grounds of coach-builder on Twickenham Road came across an antique earthen ware jar. As they struggled to retrieve it, the vessel cracked and a stream of silver sprang forth. The coins were quickly gathered up, and distributed amongst those present. A ‘sample’ of twenty eight coins appeared before the Treasury, and these are those recorded in Herbert Grueber’s note in the Numismatic Chronicle for 1886. The parcel set before Grueber, which informs all later accounts of the hoard, comprised coins of the third, fourth and fifth types issued in the reign of Æthelred II - that is Second Hand to CRVX - with the hoard weighted significantly towards the latter. In its mints the hoard shows a strong regional bias, with a preponderance of coins of London followed by smaller representations from numerous mints in Greater Wessex. Grueber listed each mint/moneyer reading for the parcel he saw and, when damage to the coins obscured readings, noted this as well. It is possible to positively identify the nos. 2, 5 and 10 from the present parcel in Grueber’s list; it is also possible that no. 6 is to be found described by Grueber, but the matter is left obscure by the author’s neglecting to give the full reading for the noted ‘broken’ specimen of this mint/moneyer combination. Several of the coins in Grueber’s listing do not appear in the current parcel. More excitingly, the current parcel provides several additions to the known listings of the Isleworth Hoard. Barnstaple (no. 1) and Cambridge (no. 4) are two such new additions; the former agreeing with the previously observed pattern of geographical distribution, whilst the latter does not, and sits alongside the CRVX penny of Thetford seen by Grueber but absent here.
An autograph album featuring John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Cliff Richard, Johnny Kid, Sandy McPherson, The Crickets,Mike Berry, Stanley Matthews, The Fortunes, The Mindbenders, Geoff Palmer and others, including showjumpers, Wolves players, c. 1963 Provenance: The vendor saw The Beatles perform at Bournemouth Winter Gardens in 1963 and obtained the Lennon & McCartney autographs at the event
Bindings. Waverley Novels, 24 volumes, by Walter Scott, Edinburgh: Robert Cadell, 1842-47, numerous engraved illustrations, blind stamp to the head of the front endpaper to volume one, some light spotting & toning, contemporary gilt decorated full calf bound by Hayday, boards & spines slightly rubbed, 8voThe Singer Not The Song, by Audrey Erskine Lindop, reprinted, London: William Heinemann, 1953, all edges gilt, contemporary gilt decorated red three quarter morocco bound by Sangorski & Sutcliffe, spine slightly faded, 8voWhat The Judge Saw..., by Edward Abbot Parry, 2nd impression, London: Smith, Elder & Co., 1912, top edge gilt, contemporary ref gilt decorated half calf bound by Morrell, spine slightly faded, 8vo, together with others similar, all leather bindings, overall condition is generally good to very good, 8vo42 volumesQTY: (2 shelves)
9ct Gold Diamond Set 'Footprints in the Sand' ring with matching earrings (Brooks & Bentley);ring stamped "375", inscribed inside "He whispered, my precious child I love you and will never leave you...when you saw only one set of footprints it was then that I carried you", ring size N, the hoop earrings have footprints decoration on them, stamped "375" on the fastenings, total gross weight of both pieces of jewellery is approx. 4 grams
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