On this day (2nd July) WW1 Shipwreckollections

SS Shirala (1901-1918)

SS Shirala was a British merchant vessel built by A. & J. Inglis, Glasgow in 1901 and owned at the time of her loss by British India Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.

On 2 July 1918, the Shirala, while travelling on a voyage from London to Bombay with 213 passengers and 5.000 tons of cargo, was torpedoed sunk by the a German U-boat under the command of Johannes Lohs. At the time, the British steamer of 5,306 tonnes was four miles NExE1/2E from the Owers lightvessel.

Sadly, eight lives were lost as a result.

The Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society has offered assistance for fishermen and mariners in need since 1839. The maritime charity provides help for mariners, retired seafarers and their dependants, through financial help including welfare grants, as well as assistance and support.

Photo credit: wrecksite.eu