ASR Whaleback S32

We are in the process of formalising the project team by setting up a trust for the project, particularly focused on protection of the MASB S32. The trust will offer formal asset management control and protection from potential legal or financial issues for the beneficiaries. The formal structure for the Trust will be recorded here in due course.

Steve Hale

I am a retired engineer who had a dad who served as a deck hand/gunner on RAF whalebacks in the war. Towards the end of his life, he just began to talk about his experiences in that service. Researching, I quickly realised that the heroic deeds of the Air Sea Rescue service of picking up ditched aircrew, were little known or recognised. Even by the RAF! Discovering the last and semi sunk whaleback, I set about rescuing it several years ago. The dream being to fully restore it for future generations. 

Peter Horscroft

Ex-RNO(E): Second to visit with my friend Jayne (the Real Expert): two years ago: we said then that it would be a “hull-only” reconstruction: I came across the site (Whaleback for the World): rapidly became involved. Electrical/Mechanical/Motor Engineer: Retired from successfully running four Motor Spares Shops and a Rally-Team

Mike Zollo

Charted Naval Architect in Defence. My Maternal Grandfather served in RAF ASR on Type 2 & Type 3 craft during WW2 and was instrumental in promoting preservation activities throughout his life, including books, dwgs and models.

Colin Yorke

Retired Design Technology teacher. Colin grew up around RAF Marine Branch as his father served as Cox on many types of RAF Marine Craft including HSL102 and HSL2602 in UK, Med and beyond. His knowledge of ASR activity and craft is invaluable to the program, along with his extensive wood working skills.

Tim Shreeve

Retired Tim’s local knowledge of the Broads, his ability to keep a trash pump going forever and guidance on where to seek out the best sausage rolls, has proved very effective in maintaining team morale.

Nick Schiller

Diver extraordinaire and voice of reason: if you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs ..

Kevin Cooper 

I am a long standing friend of Steve and live in Norfolk. Where the whaleback is. I take an interest in the marine world. Have crewed on the tall ship “Sir Winston Churchill” in my younger day and am very enthusiastic for this project. Little known fact: my grandad, a cobler in Norwich, made the football boots for Norwich City!

Andy Selman

Naval Architect and Grandson of Lead Designer at British Powerboat Co; George Selman. Andy’s in-depth knowledge of the design and construction of these craft provides a reference point for all of our onsite activity.