44 / 244 (GBR) [xtg] [o/n : 180227]

owner : Sea Prince Steam Tug Co. Ltd.
manager : C. J. King & Sons (Tugs) Ltd.

built : Henry Scarr Ltd., Hessle, GBR
yd # : S.433
L - 30:12:1943, D - 25:03:1944

one of the ubiquitous 'Empire' class of tugs built at various yards around the UK; she was one of the 19 strong 'Birch' sub-class.

Delivered as Empire Walter, for the Ministry of War Transport, she was managed/operated by Alexandra Towing. In 1946 she was sold to Sea Prince Steam Tug Co. Ltd. (mgr : C. J. King & Sons Ltd.) and renamed Sea Queen.

Eventually sold for breaking to Desguaces Blanco, she left Falmouth on 23:06:1974, in tow of the Spanish tug Punta Torre 73/179 and arrived at San Esteban de Previa, 26:06:1974, where demolition commenced 01:09:1974

photo : Avonmouth, 08:1973
photo : © Dr. Allan Ryszka-Onions 1973/2008

so after an old Belgian tug, here's a classic old English one.
my earliest LR is 1978, so if anyone can offer a LR/ IMO number, it would be appreciated.