I believe one of the antecedents of the Royal Green Jackets was the 60th Rifles.
In May 1940, the 60th rifles were defending Calais in order to allow the British Expeditionary Force the opportunity to regroup on the beaches of Dunkirk for evacuation in Operation Dynamo. As the overwhelming force of german armour rolled into Calais, the last soldiers to get out on 26th May did so on the yacht Conidaw. 165 soldiers escaped on board this last allied vessel to leave the burning harbour.
This fine 25 metre wooden twin screw motorboat, Conidaw, is now languishing in a port close to Marseilles. What german Panzers could not achieve may eventually be completed by the Mediterranean sun, wind and rain. If anyone knows of any wealthy benefactor who would like to restore this important piece of British history, please get in touch with butch@classicworks.fr
I have estimated a proper restoration at a little over a million pounds, but it all depends on the stabdard of finish required. It would take less than this to stop the deterioration and put her back in the water. I can send details if you want. Contact me at Butch@classicworks.fr.
