Kent shipwrecks

The English Channel and its Kent coast is one of the most hazardous coastlines in England due to its shifting sandbanks, unpredictable weather, treacherous currents and narrow and congested shipping lanes. The author tells the story of the first lifeboats and Lionel Lukin, a coachbuilder, who first patented his design for an 'unsubmergible boat' in 1785. Lukin is buried in Hythe, Kent. Wrecks featured include those of the Northern Belle, Frank Shaw, Northfleet, Indian Chief, Benvenue, Persian Empire, Rose, Mahratta, Preussen, HMS Bulwark, Princess Irene, Richard Montgomery and HMS Truculent. Descriptions are provided of the events leading up to the wreck and rescue attempts. Photographs illustrate some of the ships involved and memorials to those who lost their lives.