The Loss of HMS Conway - dramatic recollection of major disaster

By: Don Hale

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

During the early morning of 14th April 1953, HMS Conway, a large 19th century wooden battleship used for the training and education of cadets - hoping to become officers in the Merchant and Royal Navy - was driven ashore and wrecked by exceptionally strong tides, and broke her back in the Menai Strait. HMS Conway was almost certainly the largest ever ship to attempt to pass through this notoriously demanding stretch of swirling waters known as the ‘Swellies, that separates Anglesey from the mainland, and included a challenging passage under two major bridges. The vessel had an enormous draft of 22 feet, combined with a restricted clearance of just three feet under the Menai Suspension Bridge - therefore, it was never going to be an easy task – especially as the whole operation was witnessed by hundreds of curious and enthusiastic spectators!