Archaeological remains associated with the LOCH AWE are not confirmed at this location, but may be present in the vicinity. This entry is for the Documented Loss of the LOCH AWE on or after the 28 February 1943.

The dimensions of the vessel (below) do match those of an Unidentified Wreck (NPRN 506762) north-west of Anglesey, although this identification is not confirmed.

Event and Historical Information

The LOCH AWE was a steel trawler built in 1909 by Hall, Russell & Co. Ltd Aberdeen (Official No. 129332). The vessel was 215grt, 35.3m in length, 6.9m width, and 3.7m depth. It was powered by a 3-cylinder triple expansion steam engine with a single-screw. It also carried a ketch rig.

The trawler was originally owned by the Loch Line Steam Trawling and Fishing Company, Aberdeen and registered there (A274). It was requisitioned by the Royal Navy between 1915 and 1919 as HMT LOCH AWE (No. 1341), before returning to its pre-war owners. The vessel was owned by A.A. Davidson of Aberdeen (A274) between 1929 and 1943 when it was sold to Milford Fisheries Ltd, Fleetwood and registered at Milford Haven (M166).

The LOCH AWE is reported to have left Milford Haven on 24 February 1943. Then seen off Morcambe, and finally off Chicken Rock (Isle of Man) on 28 February 1943. After this the vessel disappeared, presumed lost with the crew of 10.

Sources Include:

Larn and Larn, 2002. Shipwreck Index of the British Isles. Volume 5, Section 7, Isle of Man (ED).

Lloyds Register Documentation, LRF-PUN-W1121-0213-R: https://hec.lrfoundation.org.uk/archive-library/ships/loch-awe-1909/

https://www.wrecksite.eu/wreck.aspx?171779

J. Whitewright, RCAHMW, November 2024.