Air – Sea Rescue Craft (ASR-10)

This craft, known as ASR-10, is a rare example of a type once stationed in the North Sea and English Channel and played an important role during World War II. Its role was to provide emergency shelter for the crews of downed aircraft, and it contained vital equipment and supplies, including food, drinking water, bunks, towels, washing gear, books and playing cards. These comforts were more to reduce the shock of their ordeal than to prepare them for a long stay. Stranded men were able to radio for assistance ensuring that a fast rescue vessel would be sent out. ASR-10 was built by Carrier Engineering of Wembley in 1941. Its career after the war is not documented, but it may have ended its working life as a towed naval target on the Clyde. The Museum received ASR-10 after it lay derelict on the slipway at Battery Park, Gourock, for many years. It remains a representative of an ongoing challenge to save lives at sea and a reminder of the importance of the sea to Britain during wartime.