During the 1960’s the Admiralty had to go out to competitive tender for new craft and during this time several orders were placed for Fairey Huntresses.

Hull 175 was one of the first to be tendered and was therefore not completely built by Fairey Marine.

Her shell was delivered from Fairey Marine on the Hamble to Groves and Gutteridge (IoW) where she was fitted out for use as a Captain’s Launch on HMS London (D16 - County Class Destroyer). She was first fitted with a Perkins diesel which gave a power of 135hp although this was later derated to 104hp for fuel consumption purposes.

Perkins T6.354 135HP de-rated to 104HP

MOD Boat on HMS London

Used as training craft from early 80's until 1994

1994: B. Campsey, Alderney

2001: G. Patterson, Alderney

2003: R. G. Sturgis, Dorset 

(C.I. Duty Paid)

2005: D. Clarke Woodbridge

2009: J. Craig, Woodbridge