Dunkirk Evacuation
Family history
By Keith Batty
I used to visit Great Yarmouth for holidays with my parents in the late '50s & '60s and would always insist on a trip on the "Eastern Princess" (never the "Norwich Belle") each year.
After several years and now in my early teens, my mother mentioned that one of the pleasure boats had taken part in the Dunkirk evacuation but unfortunately I did not question her further. Upon reading comments on this site, I have noted my favourite boats role in that operation and from research also note that "Oulton Belle" (now "Regal Lady") sister of "Norwich Belle" also took part, (I intend a trip on her when I visit Scarborough on 9/6/12).
Family history research has produced evidence that my father's brother William was evacuated from France with the BEF in June 1940 so I am presuming this is how my mother knew about the pleasure boats' contribution.
Does anyone know if "Norwich Belle" also played a part in the British Army's deliverance?
If so, I regret never having sailed on her and wish I could turn back time and pay tribute to her.