Wreck Report for 'Lorne', 1881

(No. 1076.)

"LORNE" (S.S.)

FINDING of a Court of inquiry held at Victoria, Hong Kong, into the stranding of the steamship "LORNE."

We find that the British steamship "Lorne," official number 62,297, master, John McKechnie, number of certificate of competency 97,232, was stranded on the right bank of the River Han, near Peaked Rock, at the entrance to Swatow, on the morning of the 3rd instant. The vessel discharged and jettisoned her cargo, and floated off with the tide on the morning of the 4th.

We are of opinion that the master was not justified in continuing his course after passing Bill Island.

The weather was foggy, and the master's knowledge of the tides was imperfect.

The vessel was navigated with proper precaution as regards the speed of the engines and the use of the lead, and after the stranding every endeavour was made to get the ship afloat again.

The Court do not consider it necessary to deal with the master's certificate in this case, but they recommend John McKechnie to be more cautious for the future.

The costs of the Court, amounting to 20 dollars, are to be paid by the master.

Dated at Hong Kong this 14th day of May 1881.

 

(Signed)

H. G. THOMSETT, R.N., Stipendiary Magistrate, Harbour Master, &c.

 

 

 

THOS. F. THOMAS, Lieutenant, R.N.

 

 

 

E. BURNIE,

Masters in the

 

 

ROBT. J. McCONNELL,

Mercantile

 

 

C. WHITE,

Marine.

True Copy.

H. G. THOMSETT, R.N., Harbour Master, &c.

L 367. 846. 70.—8/81. Wt. 203. E. & S.