Wed 06 May
|Museum of London Docklands
London's WW2 port on the Clyde
Time & Location
06 May 2026, 17:00 – 18:45
Museum of London Docklands, No 1, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL, UK
About the event
London's WW2 port on the Clyde and how despite restrictions the PLA and the port were crucial to the war effort across the UK
In this talk, based on recent archives research, TDHG member Henry Cleary will describe how London's port expertise was to play a vital role in maintaining Britain's shipping lifeline in WW2. London faced near closure following the severe bombing of September 1940 and the increased threat to shipping in the Channel and North Sea, but some large vessels were able to continue. At the same time an entirely new port was created on the Clyde led by Robert Letch, assistant PLA General Manager and Scruttons (stevedores) who brought 600 men and their families from London to operate it. Their success led to Robert Letch becoming Regional Port Director for Scotland and later the Mersey.
The meeting will be held in the Jack Petchey Room…