In 1954 the Port of London Authority (PLA) issued a tender for a new hydrographic survey vessel and high profile ceremonial launch. Built on the Thames by Messrs Tough Bros of Teddington, Havengore first went into service 1956. During her long working life with the PLA, she was present at many notable occasions. However her most important role was to carry the coffin of Sir Winston Churchill at his State Funeral in 1965.

Havengore was considered to be a great success operationally and such a favourite with her crews, that she stayed in service for nearly 40 years before being put up for sale in 1995.”.

The text for this and the following sections relating to Havengore’s history has been supplied by Owen Palmer, to whom grateful thanks are due”.