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Notable events involving Penzance include:

8 Feb 1940
HMAS Perth (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, RAN) and HMS Dundee (Capt. C.C.A. Allen, RN) are order to remain on patrol near Curacao as information had been received that the German merchant vessels Seattle (7369 GRT, built 1928) and Vancouver (8269 GRT, built 1930) were expected to leave within the next week.

HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN) was also ordered to the Curacao area as was the French armed merchant cruiser Barfleur. The RFA tanker War Brahmin (5545 GRT, built 1921) was ordered to proceed to the Bonaire area so as to be in position to fuel the ships on patrol if needed. (1)

7 May 1940

Convoy BHX 41

This convoy departed Bermuda on 7 May 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Anglo Norse (British (tanker), 7988 GRT, built 1914), British Reliance (British (tanker), 7000 GRT, built 1928), Brittany (British, 4772 GRT, built 192), Bulysses (British, 7519 GRT, built 1927), Charles Pratt (Panamanian (tanker), 10050 GRT, built 1916), Conch (British (tanker), 8376 GRT, built 1931), Dalcairn (British, 4608 GRT, built 1927), Daphnella (British (tanker), 8078 GRT, built 1938), Edwy R. Brown (British (tanker), 10455 GRT, built 1938), El Grillo (British (tanker), 7264 GRT, built 1922), Elona (British (tanker), 6192 GRT, built 1936), Eulima (British (tanker), 6207 GRT, built 1937), Housatonic (British (tanker), 5559 GRT, built 1919), Huntingdon (British, 11849 GRT, built 1920), Indianan (British, 5775 GRT, built 1919), Kent (British, 8697 GRT, built 1918), La Estancia (British, 5185 GRT, built 1940), Lacklan (British (tanker), 8670 GRT, built 1929), Middleton (British, 4297 GRT, built 1935), Oropesa (British, 14118 GRT, built 1920), Port Saint John (British, 5668 GRT, built 1938), San Casimiro (British (tanker), 8046 GRT, built 1936), San Conrado (British (tanker), 7982 GRT, built 1936), Scottish Chief (British, 7006 GRT, built 1928) and Trojan Star (British, 9037 GRT, built 1936).

The Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) tanker Cairndale (8129 GRT, built 1939) was also part of the convoy.

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Jervis Bay (A/Capt. E.S.F. Fegen, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was to escort the convoy until sunset on the 7th and then return to Bermuda.

Around 0100Q/10, in position 36°26'N, 55°49'W, the Port Saint John dropped out of the convoy with engine defects. She did not rejoin the convoy and arrived independently at Milford Haven on 19 May.

Around 1900P/13, HMS Jervis Bay parted company with the convoy to return to Bermuda. The ships of the convoy joined convoy HX 41 the following morning around 0830P/14. (2)

11 May 1940

Convoy BHX 42

This convoy departed Bermuda on 11 May 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Adellen (British (tanker), 7984 GRT, built 1930), Atheltemplar (British (tanker), 8992 GRT, built 1930), Brandanger (Norwegian, 4624 GRT, built 1924), British Resource (British (tanker), 7209 GRT, built 1931), Davila (British (tanker), 8053 GRT, built 1938), Davisian (British, 6433 GRT, built 1925), Inversuir (British, 9456 GRT, built 1938), King Arthur (British, 5224 GRT, built 1928), Kumasian (British, 4992 GRT, built 1930), Llanover (British, 4959 GRT, built 1928), Pacific Exporter (British, 6734 GRT, built 1928), Pacific Ranger (British, 6865 GRT, built 1929), Petter (Norwegian (tanker), 9109 GRT, built 1935), Pomella (British (tanker), 6766 GRT, built 1937), Rapana (British (tanker), 8017 GRT, built 1935), San Ambrosio (British (tanker), 7410 GRT, built 1935), San Roberto (British (tanker), 5890 GRT, built 1922), Scherazade (French (tanker), 13467 GRT, built 1935), Solstad (Norwegian (tanker), 5952 GRT, built 1927), Sticklestad (Norwegian (tanker), 9349 GRT, built 1938), Strategist (British, 6255 GRT, built 1937) and Vancouver (British (tanker), 5729 GRT, built 1928).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by HMS Rajputana (Capt.(Retd.) F.H. Taylor, DSC, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 2245Q/11, HMS Penzance was detached to return to Bermuda.

Around 1015Q/12, the merchant vessel Calgarolite (British (tanker), 11941 GRT, built 1929) overtook and joined the convoy, having sailed late from Bermuda.

Around 1235P/17, in position 41°46'N, 42°55'E, HMS Ranpura parted company to return to Bermuda. No contact with convoy HX 42 had been made at that time.

Convoy BHX 42 joined convoy HX 42 in the afternoon of the 18th in position 42°57'N, 39°30'W. (3)

15 May 1940

Convoy BHX 43

This convoy departed Bermuda on 15 May 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Ahamo (British, 8621 GRT, built 1926), Athelcrest (British (tanker), 6825 GRT, built 1940), Athelprince (British (tanker), 8782 GRT, built 1926), Baxtergate (British, 5531 GRT, built 1925), Bhima (British, 5280 GRT, built 1939), British Courage (British (tanker), 6952 GRT, built 1928), British Hussar (British (tanker), 6944 GRT, built 1923), British Loyalty (British (tanker), 6993 GRT, built 1928), Chama (British (tanker), 8077 GRT, built 1938), Dallas City (British, 4952 GRT, built 1935), Daytonian (British, 6434 GRT, built 1922), Ensis (British (tanker), 6207 GRT, built 1937), Gold Shell (British (tanker), 8208 GRT, built 1931), Inverilen (British (tanker), 9456 GRT, built 1938), Iroquois (British (tanker), 8937 GRT, built 1907), Laurits Swenson (Norwegian, 5725 GRT, built 1930), Napier Star (British, 10116 GRT, built 1927), Neion (Greek, 5241 GRT, built 1918), Opalia (British (tanker), 6195 GRT, built 1938), Sildra (Norwegian (tanker), 7313 GRT, built 1927), Sinnington Court (British, 6910 GRT, built 1928), Standella (British (tanker), 6197 GRT, built 1936), Victor Ross (British (tanker), 12247 GRT, built 1933), Vivi (Norwegian (tanker), 6546 GRT, built 1932) and Yarraville (British (tanker), 8627 GRT, built 1928).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Comorin (Capt.(Retd.) J.I. Hallett, DSO, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was to part company at sunset on the 16th and return to Bermuda.

Around 1100P/21, convoy BHX 43 joined convoy HX 43 in position 41°31'N, 42°32'W. HMS Comorin was then detached to proceed to Halifax. (4)

19 May 1940

Convoy BHX 44

This convoy departed Bermuda on 19 May 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Acavus (British (tanker), 8010 GRT, built 1935), Arakaka (British, 2379 GRT, built 1933), Charles Racine (Norwegian (tanker), 9957 GRT, built 1937), Cordelia (British (tanker), 8190 GRT, built 1932), Dramatist (British, 5443 GRT, built 1920), Europe (Norwegian (tanker), 8371 GRT, built 1934), Goldmouth (British (tanker), 7402 GRT, built 1927), H.H. Rogers (Panamanian (tanker), 8807 GRT, built 1916), Invershannon (British (tanker), 8154 GRT, built 1938), Norman Monarch (British, 7005 GRT, built 1943), Polarsol (Norwegian (tanker), 10022 GRT, built 1939), Pontfield (British (tanker), 8319 GRT, built 1940), Port Melbourne (British, 9142 GRT, built 1914), San Arcadio (British (tanker), 7419 GRT, built 1935) and San Ernesto (British (tanker), 8078 GRT, built 1939).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Jervis Bay (A/Capt. E.S.F. Fegen, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was to escort the convoy until sunset on the 19th and then return to Bermuda.

Around 0830P/25, convoy BHX 44 joined convoy HX 44. HMS Jervis Bay then parted company to return to Bermuda. (2)

23 May 1940

Convoy BHX 45

This convoy departed Bermuda on 23 May 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Beth (Norwegian, 6852 GRT, built 1930), Bradglen (British, 4741 GRT, built 1930), British Commander (British (tanker), 6901 GRT, built 1922), British Dominion (British (tanker), 6983 GRT, built 1928), British Prudence (British (tanker), 8620 GRT, built 1939), Brumaire (French (tanker), 7638 GRT, built 1930), Caprella (British (tanker), 8230 GRT, built 1931), Cliona (British (tanker), 8375 GRT, built 1931), Coya (British, 4954 GRT, built 1919), Cressington Court (British, 4971 GRT, built 1929), Donax (British (tanker), 8036 GRT, built 1938), Edward F. Johnson (British (tanker), 10452 GRT, built 1937), Evoikos (Greek, 4792 GRT, built 1922), Hallanger (Norwegian (tanker), 9551 GRT, built 1928), Hoegh Scout (Norwegian (tanker), 9924 GRT, built 1939), Houston City (British, 4935 GRT, built 1934), Inanda (British, 5985 GRT, built 1925), Inventor (British, 6210 GRT, built 1935), Krossfonn (Norwegian (tanker), 9323 GRT, built 1935), Litiopa (Norwegian (tanker), 5311 GRT, built 1917), Lunula (British (tanker), 6363 GRT, built 1927), Lylepark (British, 5186 GRT, built 1929), Moveria (British, 4867 GRT, built 1935), Rangitiki (British, 16698 GRT, built 1928), Ruth Kellogg (British (tanker), 5543 GRT, built 1920), Saintonge (French (tanker), 9386 GRT, built 1936), San Cipriano (British (tanker), 7966 GRT, built 1937), San Eliseo (British (tanker), 8042 GRT, built 1939), San Gabriel (British, 4943 GRT, built 1920), Schuylkill (British (tanker), 8965 GRT, built 1928), Scottish Heather (British (tanker), 7087 GRT, built 1928), Scottish Standard (British (tanker), 6999 GRT, built 1921), Solsten (Norwegian (tanker), 5379 GRT, built 1929), South America (Norwegian (tanker), 6246 GRT, built 1931), Tamaroa (British, 12405 GRT, built 1922), Thelma (Norwegian (tanker), 8297 GRT, built 1937), Torvanger (Norwegian, 6564 GRT, built 1920), Varanger (Norwegian (tanker), 9305 GRT, built 1925) and Waban (British, 6038 GRT, built 1919).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Rajputana (Capt.(Retd.) F.H. Taylor, DSC, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was to escort the convoy until sunset on 23 May and then return to Bermuda.

At 1912Q/25, in position 35°57'N, 56°50'W, the Scottish Standard dropped out of the convoy with engine trouble. She did not rejoin and arrived at Portsmouth on 9 or 10 June.

At 1520P/28, in position 40°41'N, 46°08'W, the Saintonge dropped out of the convoy with engine trouble. She did not rejoin and arrived at Brest on 6 June.

By 0830P/29, convoy BHX 45 had joined up with convoy HX 45. HMS Rajputana parted company around 0915P/29 to return to Bermuda. (5)

31 May 1940

Convoy BHX 47

This convoy departed Bermuda on 31 May 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
British Captain (British (tanker), 6968 GRT, built 1923), British Faith (British (tanker), 6955 GRT, built 1928), Capsa (British (tanker), 8229 GRT, built 1931), Diplomat (British, 8240 GRT, built 1921), Egda (Norwegian (tanker), 10050 GRT, built 1939), El Aleto (British (tanker), 7203 GRT, built 1927), Elax (British (tanker), 7403 GRT, built 1927), F.J. Wolfe (British (tanker), 12190 GRT, built 1932), Hoyanger (Norwegian, 4624 GRT, built 1926), Italia (Norwegian (tanker), 9973 GRT, built 1939), Northumberland (British, 11558 GRT, built 1915), Ocatavian (Norwegian, 1345 GRT, built 1938), Regent Panther (British (tanker), 9556 GRT, built 1937), Salacia (British, 5495 GRT, built 1937), San Adolfo (British (tanker), 7365 GRT, built 1935), Saturnus (Swedish, 9964 GRT, buil 1940), Storanger (Norwegian (tanker), 9223 GRT, built 1930), Temple Inn (British, 5218 GRT, built 1940), Theodoros Coumantaros (Greek, 5875 GRT, built 1917), Thiara (British (tanker), 10364 GRT, built 1939), Ulysses (Dutch, 2655 GRT, built 1918) and Vinemoor (British, 4359 GRT, built 1924).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Ascania (Capt.(Retd.) C.H. Ringrose-Wharton, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1910Q/31, HMS Penzance parted company with the convoy to return to Bermuda.

Around 1120P/7, HMS Ascania parted company with the convoy after contact with convoy HX 47 had been made.

Convoy BHX 47 then joined convoy HX 47. This was completed around 1430P/7 in position 41°21'N, 42°36'W. (6)

4 Jun 1940

Convoy BHX 48

This convoy departed Bermuda on 4 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Benjamin Franklin (Norwegian, 7034 GRT, built 1927), Bente Maersk (British (tanker), 5772 GRT, built 1928), Caledonia (British (tanker), 9892 GRT, built 1936), Capulet (British (tanker), 8190 GRT, built 1932), D.L. Harper (British (tanker), 12223 GRT, built 1933), Eclipse (British (tanker), 9767 GRT, built 1931), G.S. Walden (British (tanker), 10627 GRT, built 1937), Miralda (British (tanker), 8013 GRT, built 1936), Nicolaou Georgios (Greek, 4108 GRT, built 1930), Patella (British (tanker), 7468 GRT, built 1927), Politician (British, 7939 GRT, built 1923), Refast (British (tanker) 5189 GRT, built 1914), Robert F. Hand (British (tanker), 12197 GRT, built 1933), Sourabaya (British (tanker / whale factory ship), 10107 GRT, built 1915) and W.B. Walker (British (tanker), 10468 GRT, built 1935).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Jervis Bay (A/Capt. E.S.F. Fegen, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1900Q/4, HMS Penzance was detached to return to Bermuda.

Around 1400P/10, Convoy BHX 48 joined convoy HX 48. HMS Jervis Bay parted company around 1520P/4 to proceed to Halifax. (7)

8 Jun 1940

Convoy BHX 49

This convoy departed Bermuda on 8 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Athelfoam (British (tanker), 6554 GRT, built 1931), Athellaird (British (tanker), 8999 GRT, built 1930), Augvald (Norwegian, 4811 GRT, built 1920), Barrdale (British, 5072 GRT, built 1925), British Fidility (British (tanker), 8465 GRT, built 1938), British Cincerity (British (tanker), 8538 GRT, built 1939), Cadillac (British (tanker), 12062 GRT, built 1917), Charles F. Meyer (British (tanker), 10516 GRT, built 1938), Collegian (British, 7886 GRT, built 1923), Confield (British, 4956 GRT, built 1940), Cromarty (British, 4974 GRT, built 1936), Director (British, 5107 GRT, built 1926), Eli Knudsen (Norwegian (tanker), 9026 GRT, built 1925), Gallia (Norwegian (tanker), 9974 GRT, built 1939), Glarona (Norwegian (tanker), 9912 GRT, built 1928), Jhelum (British, 4038 GRT, built 1936), Moordrecht (Dutch (tanker), 7493 GRT, built 1930), Port Huon (British, 8021 GRT, built 1927), Regent Lion (British (tanker), 9551 GRT, built 1937), San Felipe (British, 5626 GRT, built 1919), Solarium (British, 6239 GRT, built 1936), Strinda (Norwegian (tanker), 10973 GRT, built 1937), Suderholm (Norwegian (tanker), 4908 GRT, built 1917) and Torborg (Norwegian (tanker), 6042 GRT, built 1921).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Rajputana (Capt.(Retd.) F.H. Taylor, DSC, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was to part company around sunset on the 8th and then return to Bermuda.

Around 1320P/13, 40°01'N, 46°54'W, HMS Rajputana parted company with the convoy to return to Bermuda.

Convoy BHX 49 joined convoy HX 49 later that afternoon. (8)

12 Jun 1940

Convoy BHX 50

This convoy departed Bermuda on 12 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Appalachee (British (tanker), 8826 GRT, built 1930), Athelduke (British (tanker), 8966 GRT, built 1929), Athelking (British (tanker), 9557 GRT, built 1926), Athelmonarch (British (tanker), 8995 GRT, built 1928), Athelprincess (British (tanker), 8882 GRT, built 1929), Bradford City (British, 4953 GRT, built 1936), British Ardour (British (tanker), 7124 GRT, built 1928), British Viscount (British (tanker), 6895 GRT, built 1921), Cardita (British (tanker), 8237 GRT, built 1931), Conus (British (tanker), 8132 GRT, built 1931), Cornish City (British, 4952 GRT, built 1936), Culebra (Panamanian, 5260 GRT, built 1919), Geo W. McKnight (British (tanker), 12502 GRT, built 1933), Henry Dundas (British (tanker), 10448 GRT, built 1937), Hilda Knudsen (British (tanker), 9178 GRT, built 1928), Mactra (British (tanker), 6193 GRT, built 1936), Monkleigh (British, 5203 GRT, built 1927), Queen Victoria (British, 4937 GRT, built 1936), Raranga (British, 10043 GRT, built 1916), Shirak (British (tanker), 6023 GRT, built 1926), Somerville (Norwegian, 4265 GRT, built 1929) and Zealandic (British, 8281 GRT, built 1928).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Comorin (Capt.(Retd.) J.I. Hallett, DSO, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was to part company at sunset on the 12th and return to Bermuda.

Convoy BHX 50 joined convoy HX 50 around 1330P/19.

The Athelking and Kaia Knudsen did not join and was detached to return back to Bermuda where they arrived on 24 June.

The British Ardour, Henry Dundas and Shirak had been detached to Halifax during the passage. They arrived at Halifax on 18 June (the British Ardour on 20 June).

HMS Comorin must have parted company with the convoy earlier as she arrived back at Bermuda on 21 June.

[No report for this convoy is available. Also no log for HMS Comorin is available.]

16 Jun 1940

Convoy BHX 51

This convoy departed Bermuda on 16 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Alexandre Andre (Belgian (tanker), 5261 GRT, built 1928), Amakura (British, 1987 GRT, built 1924), Athelduchess (British (tanker), 8940 GRT, built 1929), Dosinia (British (tanker), 8053 GRT, buil 1938), Gand (Belgian, 5086 GRT, built 1919), Havsten (Norwegian (tanker), 6161 GRT, built 1930), Heranger (Norwegian, 4877 GRT, built 1930), Lucerna (British (tanker), 6556 GRT, built 1930), Lustrous (British (tanker), 6156 GRT, built 1927), Maimoa (British, 10123 GRT, built 1920), Orduna (British, 15507 GRT, built 1914), Polartank (Norwegian (tanker), 6356 GRT, built 1930), President Sergent (French (tanker), 5344 GRT, built 1923), Rio Grande (Panamanian, 5696 GRT, built 1919), San Amado (British (tanker), 7316 GRT, built 1935), Sandar (Norwegian (tanker), 7624 GRT, built 1928), Scholar (British, 3940 GRT, built 1922), Tachee (British (tanker), 6508 GRT, built 1914), Trekieve (British, 5244 GRT, built 1919) and Vendemaire (French (tanker), 9228 GRT, built 1929).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Ascania (Capt.(Retd.) C.H. Ringrose-Wharton, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1920Q/16, in position 33°00'N, 63°08'W, the San Amado parted company with the convoy to proceed to Halifax where she arrived on 20 June.

Around 1930Q/16, HMS Penzance parted company with the convoy to return to Bermuda.

Around 0530Q/18, the Havsten, President Sergent, Tahchee and Vendemaire were detached to return to Bermuda where they arrived on 21 June.

Around 1045P/21, Convoy BHX 51 joined Convoy HX 51 coming from Halifax. HMS Ascania then parted company to return to Bermuda. (9)

20 Jun 1940

Convoy BHX 52

This convoy departed Bermuda on 20 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
British Chivalry (British (tanker), 7118 GRT, built 1929), Coryton (British, 4553 GRT, built 1928), Cumberland (British, 11446 GRT, built 1920), Dalfram (British, 4558 GRT, built 1930), Fana (Norwegian, 1375 GRT, built 1939), Inverlee (British (tanker), 9158 GRT, built 1938), Leeds City (British, 4758 GRT, built 1927), Luxor (British (tanker), 6554 GRT, built 1930), Sambre (British, 5260 GRT, built 1919) and Siris (British, 5242 GRT, built 1919).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Rajputana (Capt.(Retd.) F.H. Taylor, DSC, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance either parted company late on the 20th or more likely early on the 21st and then returned to Bermuda where she arrived around 1530Q/21.

Around 1300P/25, HMS Rajputana parted company with the convoy to proceed or. Convoy HX 52 had not yet been met.

Around 1915P/25, Convoy BHX 52 joined convoy HX 52. (8)

24 Jun 1940

Convoy BHX 53

This convoy departed Bermuda on 24 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Arthur F. Corwin (British (tanker), 10516 GRT, built 1938), Athelempress (British (tanker), 8941 GRT, built 1930), Empire Gannet (British, 5630 GRT, built 1919), Katy (Norwegian (tanker), 6825 GRT, built 1931), Maria Stathatos (Greek, 6303 GRT, built 1922), Mataroa (British, 12390 GRT, built 1922), Severn Leigh (British, 5242 GRT, built 1919), Sommerstad (Norwegian (tanker), 5923 GRT, built 1926), Taranaki (British, 10534 GRT, built 1928), Thistlegarth (British, 4747 GRT, built 1929), Thorshavn (Norwegian (tanker), 6869 GRT, built 1930) and Whitford Point (British, 5026 GRT, built 1928).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Comorin (Capt.(Retd.) J.I. Hallett, DSO, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1430Q/24, HMS Penzance returned to Bermuda after having been detached from the convoy earlier in the day.

The Arthur F. Corwin arrived at Halifax on 29 June 1940 after having been detached from the convoy [detachement date unknown.]

Around 0800P/30, in position 41°30'N, 44°35'W, convoy BHX 53 merged with convoy HX 53. HMS Comorin did not join convoy HX 53 but set course to proceed to Halifax where she arrived on 2 July 1940.

28 Jun 1940

Convoy BHX 54

This convoy departed Bermuda on 28 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Athelbeach (British (tanker), 6568 GRT, built 1931), Athinai (Greek, 2897 GRT, built 1910), Benmohr (British, 5920, built 1928), Bonnington Court (British, 4909 GRT, built 1929), Buesten (Norwegian, 5187 GRT, built 1927), Comanchee (British (tanker), 6837 GRT, built 1936), Dirphys (Greek, 4240 GRT, built 1917), Dromus (British (tanker), 8036 GRT, built 1938), Empire Caribou (British, 4861 GRT, built 1919), Empire Moose (British, 6071 GRT, built 1920), Holmpark (British, 5780 GRT, built 1927), Hoperange (British, 5177 GRT, built 1939), John A. Brown (British (tanker), 10455 GRT, built 1938), Jutland (British, 6153 GRT, built 1928), Port Brisbane (British, 8315 GRT, built 1923), Sepia (British (tanker), 6214 GRT, built 1936), Stureholm (Swedish, 4575 GRT, built 1919), Vimeira (British, 5728 GRT, built 1927), Westmoreland (British, 9001 GRT, built 1917).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Ascania (Capt.(Retd.) C.H. Ringrose-Wharton, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1930Q/28, in position 32°57'N, 63°24.W, HMS Penzance parted company with the convoy to return to Bermuda.

Around 1940Q/30, in position 36°15'N, 56°03'W, the John A. Brown was detached to Halifax.

Around 1030P/3, in position 40°27'N, 46°49'W, HMS Ascania parted company to proceed to Halifax.

Convoy BHX 54 then joined convoy HX 54 shortly after 1500P/3. (10)

2 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 55

This convoy departed Bermuda on 2 July 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Dalhanna (British, 5571 GRT, built 1930), Dunkeld (British, 4944 GRT, built 1937), Erodona (British (tanker), 6207 GRT, built 1937), Fiscus (British, 4815 GRT, built 1927), Hoperidge (British, 5222 GRT, built 1939), Ioannis Frangos (Greek, 3442 GRT, built 1912), Loch Don (British, 5249 GRT, built 1937), Lycia (British, 2338 GRT, built 1924), Mount Helmos (Greek, 6481 GRT, built 1923), Pacific Enterprise (British, 6736 GRT, built 1927), Peder Bogen (British (tanker), 9741 GRT, built 1925), Rangitata (British, 16737 GRT, built 1929), San Ubaldo (British (tanker), 5999 GRT, built 1921), Sofie Bakke (Norwegian, 5461 GRT, built 1938) and Somerset (British, 9773 GRT, built 1918).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Ranpura (A/Capt.(Retd.) R.I. Money, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around dark on the 2nd, HMS Penzance parted company with the convoy to return to Bermuda.

At 1745Q/2, a signal was received that the Peder Bogen was to return to Bermuda. She was detached accordingly.

In the morning of 4 July the San Ubaldo had to stop due to engine trouble. She rejoined the following morning.

Around 0900P/7, convoy BHX 55 joined convoy HX 55. HMS Ranpura then set course to proceed to Halifax. (4)

6 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 56

This convoy departed Bermuda on 28 June 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Ahamo (British, 8621 GRT, built 1926), Alexia (British (tanker), 8016 GRT, built 1935), Atheltemplar (British (tanker), 8992 GRT, built 1930), Auris (British (tanker), 8030 GRT, built 1935), Beemsterdijk (Dutch, 6869 GRT, built 1922), British Courage (British (tanker), 6952 GRT, built 1928), Bruxelles (Belgium, 5085 GRT, built 1919), Craftsman (British, 7896 GRT, built 1922), Empire Confidence (British, 5023 GRT, built 1925), Flowergate (British, 5161 GRT, built 1911), Hopepeak (British, 5179 GRT, built 1938), Iroquois (British (tanker), 8937 GRT, built 1907), Lake Hallwil (Estonian, 3149 GRT, built 1907), Port Wellington (British, 10065 GRT, built 1924), Rancher (British, 5882 GRT, built 1927), Ruahine (British, 10832 GRT, built 1909), San Conrado (British (tanker), 7982 GRT, built 1936), Sea Giant (British (tug), 778 GRT, built 1920), Speybank (British, 5154 GRT, built 1926) and Storaas (Norwegian (tanker), 7886 GRT, built 1929).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Ausonia (Capt. H.G. Norman, RN) and and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1745Q/6, HMS Penzance parted company to return to Bermuda.

Around 0435Q/9, in position 36°51'N, 54°35'W, the San Conrado was detached to Halifax.

Around 1600P/10, in position 39°15'N, 49°03'W, the Sea Giant fell out of the convoy due to engine defects. She subsequently proceeded to Halifax.

Around 1410P/11, in position 40°53'N, 46°05'W, the Empire Confidence fell out of the convoy due to engine defects. She arrived in the Clyde on 21 July.

Around 1615P/11, convoy BHX 56 joined convoy HX 56. HMS Ausonia then set course for Halifax. (11)

10 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 57

This convoy departed Bermuda on 10 July 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Athelviking (British (tanker), 8779 GRT, built 1926), Atlantian (British, 6549 GRT, built 1928), Carperby (British, 4890 GRT, built 1928), Clearwater (British, 5590 GRT, built 1920), Eglantine (British, 6374 GRT, built 1919), El Ciervo (British (tanker), 5841 GRT, built 1923), Goodleigh (British, 5448 GRT, built 1938), Inverilen (British (tanker), 9456 GRT, built 1938), Invershannon (British (tanker), 8154 GRT, built 1938), Kars (British (tanker), 8888 GRT, built 1939), La Cordillera (British, 5185 GRT, built 1940), Madrono (Norwegian (tanker), 5894 GRT, built 1917), Malmanger (Norwegian (tanker), 7078 GRT, built 1920), Port Darwin (British, 8063 GRT, built 1918), Rio Azul (British, 4088 GRT, built 1921), Ronin (Panamanian, 5677 GRT, built 1919), Salvestria (British, 11938 GRT, built 1913), San Arcadio (British (tanker), 7419 GRT, built 1935), Sildra (Norwegian (tanker), 7313 GRT, built 1927), Sulev (British (former Estonian), 2233 GRT, built 1908), Tuscan Star (British, 11449 GRT, built 1930) and Vav (Norwegian (tanker), 6415 GRT, built 1931).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the light cruiser HMS Emerald (Capt. F.C. Flynn, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was to return to Bermuda after having been detached from the convoy at dawn on the 11th.

Around 0900P/15, in position 40°20'N, 46°40'W, convoy BHX 57 sighted HX 57. HMS Emerald then parted company and set course to proceed to Halifax. (12)

14 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 58.

This convoy departed Bermuda on 14 July 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Anadara (British (tanker), 8009 GRT, built 1935), Athelsultan (British (tanker), 8882 GRT, built 1929), Cerinthus (British (tanker), 3878 GRT, built 1930), Delphinula (British (tanker), 8120 GRT, built 1939), Derrymore (British, 4799 GRT, built 1938), Harberton (British, 4585 GRT, built 1930), Hopecrest (British, 5099 GRT, built 1935), Indian Prince (British, 8587 GRT, built 1926), Inkosi (British, 6618 GRT, built 1937), Inversuir (British, 9456 GRT, built 1938), La Pampa (British, 4149 GRT, built 1938), Lumen (British (tanker), 6500 GRT, built 1925), Oiltrader (British (tanker), 5550 GRT, built 1927), Patrick Henry (British, 8295 GRT, built 1920), Port Caroline (British, 8263 GRT, built 1919), Rodsley (British, 5000 GRT, built 1939), Saint Bernard (British, 5183 GRT, built 1939), San Demetrio (British (tanker), 8073 GRT, built 1938), San Eliseo (British (tanker), 8042 GRT, built 1939), Schuylkill (British (tanker), 8965 GRT, built 1928), Vernon City (British, 4748 GRT, built 1929) and Wayfarer (British, 5068 GRT, built 1925).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Jervis Bay (A/Capt. E.S.F. Fegen, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1930Q/14, HMS Penzance parted company to return to Bermuda.

Around 1200P/19, in position 41°05'N, 46°30'W, convoy BHX 58 joined convoy HX 58. HMS Jervis Bay then parted company to proceed to Saint John, New Brunswick. (13)

18 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 59.

This convoy departed Bermuda on 18 July 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Auditor (British, 5444 GRT, built 1924), Cambridge (British, 10892 GRT, built 1919), Circe Shell (British (tanker), 8207 GRT, built 1931), Dan-Y-Bryn (British, 5117 GRT, built 1940), Donax (British (tanker), 8036 GRT, built 1938), Finnanger (Norwegian (tanker) 9551 GRT, built 1928), Lady Glanely (British, 5497 GRT, built 1938), Loriga (British, 6665 GRT, built 1919), Mahia (British, 10014 GRT, built 1917), Modavia (British, 4858 GRT, built 1927), Morgenen (Norwegian (tanker), 7093 GRT, built 1930), Norvinn (Panamanian (tanker), 6322 GRT, built 1930), San Francisco (Swedish, 4933 GRT, built 1915), Simnia (British (tanker), 6197 GRT, built 1936), Tredinnick (British, 4589 GRT, built 1921), Valldemosa (British (tanker), 7222 GRT, built 1935) and Waziristan (British, 5135 GRT, built 1924).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Aurania (A/Capt. I.W. Whitehorn, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1700Q/18, the merchant vessel Clausina (British (tanker), 8083 GRT, built 1938) overtook and joined the convoy. She had sailed late from Bermuda having arrived there only earlier on this day.

Around 1920Q/18, HMS Penzance parted company to return to Bermuda.

Around 1330P/23, HMS Aurania parted company after convoy HX 59 had been sighted.

Convoy BHX 59 joined convoy HX 59 around 1600P/23. (14)

22 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 60.

This convoy departed Bermuda on 22 July 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Amastra (British (tanker), 8031 GRT, built 1935), Anglo Peruvian (British, 5457 GRT, built 1926), Athelviscount (British (tanker), 8882 GRT, built 1929), Boka (Panamanian, 5399 GRT, built 1920), Catrine (British, 5218 GRT, built 1940), Clea (British (tanker), 8028 GRT, built 1938), Custodian (British, 5881 GRT, built 1928), Dalfonn (British (tanker), 9860 GRT, built 1928), Davila (British (tanker), 8053 GRT, built 1938), El Mirlo (British (tanker), 8092 GRT, built 1930), Explorer (British, 6235 GRT, built 1935), Indora (British, 6622 GRT, built 1938), Rosewood (British (tanker), 5989 GRT, built 1931), Scottish Heather (British (tanker), 7087 GRT, built 1928) and Solfonn (Norwegian (tanker), 9925 GRT, built 1939).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Alaunia (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Woodward, DSO and Bar, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was only with the convoy briefly and soon returned to Bermuda presumably arriving on 23 July.

Around 1000P/27, in position 40°53'N, 46°17'W, the convoy merged with convoy HX 60 coming from Halifax. HMS Alaunia then parted company to return to Bermuda where she arrived around 0900Q/30. (15)

26 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 61.

This convoy departed Bermuda on 26 July 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Cape Clear (British, 5085 GRT, built 1939), Dordrecht (British, 4402 GRT, built 1928), Grelrosa (British, 4574 GRT, built 1914), Hannington Court (British, 5449 GRT, built 1939), Lise (Norwegian (tanker), 6826 GRT, built 1931), Maaskerk (Dutch, 4343 GRT, built 1929), Maja (British (tanker), 8181 GRT, built 1931), San Gabriel (British, 4943 GRT, built 1920) and Wanderer (British, 5079 GRT, built 1925).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Rajputana (Capt.(Retd.) F.H. Taylor, DSC, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

HMS Penzance was only with the convoy briefly and soon returned to Bermuda presumably arriving on 27 July.

Around 2200Q/28, in position 35°53'N, 56°58'W, the Grelrosa was lost from sight. She was already trailing the convoy having insufficient speed to keep up. She arrived at Liverpool on 12 August.

Around 1600P/31, in position 41°02'N, 46°10'W, HMS Rajputana parted company with the convoy to proceed to Halifax. The convoy had not yet made rendezvous with convoy HX 61.

Around 1130P/1, in position 42°43'N, 42°53'W, convoy BHX 61 joined convoy HX 61. (16)

30 Jul 1940

Convoy BHX 62.

This convoy departed Bermuda on 26 July 1940.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Arakaka (British, 2379 GRT, built 1933), Caprella (British (tanker), 8230 GRT, built 1931), Capulet (British (tanker), 8190 GRT, built 1932), Cliona (British (tanker), 8375 GRT, built 1931), Elisabeth van Belgie (Belgian, 4241 GRT, built 1909), Glenwood (British, 4897 GRT, built 1940), Kheti (British, 2734 GRT, built 1927), Laguna (British, 6466 GRT, built 1923), Orbita (British, 15495 GRT, built 1915), Peder Bogen (British (tanker), 9741 GRT, built 1925), Prince de Liege (Belgian, 2588 GRT, built 1938), San Cipriano (British, 7966 GRT, built 1937), Sylvafield (British (tanker), 5709 GRT, built 1925), Toorak (British (tanker), 8627 GRT, built 1927) and Wellington Court (British, 4979 GRT, built 1930).

On departure from Bermuda the convoy was escorted by the armed merchant cruiser HMS Montclare (Capt.(Retd.) H.M. Spreckley, RN) and the sloop HMS Penzance (Cdr. A.J. Wavish, RN).

Around 1930Q/30, in position 32°54'N, 63°10'W, HMS Penzance parted company to return to Bermuda.

Around 1315Q/2, in position 37°26'N, 53°48'W, the Sylvafield had to stop due to engine repairs. She did not rejoin the convoy and continued her passage to her destination, Glasgow, independently. She was torpedoed and sunk on 15 August 1940 by the German submarine U-51.

Around 1240P/4, in position 41°11'N, 46°40'W, HMS Montclare parted company to return to Bermuda. The convoy had not yet made rendezvous with convoy HX 62.

Around 1415P/5, convoy BHX 62 joined convoy HX 62. (17)

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