English: Starboard side view of HMS Wessex at sea, 1918 (TWAM ref. 2931 War31).

HMS Wessex was a W-Class destroyer launched by Hawthorn Leslie on 12 March 1918. She served during both World Wars but tragically was sunk on 24 May 1940.
The shipyard of R. & W. Hawthorn Leslie at Hebburn built many fine warships. During the First World War the firm built 2 light cruisers, 3 destroyer leaders and 25 torpedo boat destroyers. The firm also built machinery and boilers for 2 battleships, and a further 3 light cruisers. These and other warships built by Hawthorn Leslie before the War, are remembered in this set.
There are remarkable images of warships under construction at Hebburn, as well as fascinating shots of the people who attended the launches. The set also contains majestic views of the ships at sea. The images are not only a testimony to the skill of those who designed and built these ships but also to the courage of those who sailed in them.

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