THE SHIP'S BELL FROM H.M.S. HURST, 1916
cast in brass with name inscribed in an arc to front, crown top with later threaded suspension loop added, clapper. Overall height -- 14in. (36cm.)

The success of chartered pleasure steamers as mine sweepers and submarine hunters inspired the Admiralty to design and build their own and Hurst was a 'Racecourse' Class paddle minesweeper built under the Emergency War Programme by Dunlop, Bremner & Co. Also known as the 'Ascot' Class, thirty-two were built, displacing some 810 tons and just under 246ft long, they were lightly armed with two 6pdrs with two 2pdr pom-poms and manned by a crew of fifty. Their speed of 14½knots was compromised as water choked in the paddle boxes, but the class performed well overall with most surviving the War to be either broken up in 1922 as Hurst was, or converted to pleasure / passenger use. Ascot however was torpedoed by U-67 on the 10th November 1918, just a day before peace was declared.

Condition Report
Old wear to front edge; crown top drilled to receive threaded fitting presumed to be later.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.