THE "WIRRAL BANK."

[1951] 2 Lloyd's Rep. 352

ADMIRALTY DIVISION.

Before Mr. Justice Willmer, sitting with Commodore R. L. F. Hubbard, and Captain K. McM. Drake, Elder Brethren of Trinity House.

Collision - River Thames - Look-out - Starboard-hand rule-Vessel approaching sharp bend-Navigation against the tidal stream - Crossing vessel navigating against tide-Vessel towing more than 150 ft. in length-Lights- Seamanship - Navigation single-handed - Collision between steam hopper King's Channel (with hopper Irk in tow alongside) and steamship Wirral Bank in Gallions Reach, River Thames, near Tripcock Point-King's Channel bound up river, rounding Point on south (her wrong) side - Wirral Bank, having cast off from jetty on north side, crossing diagonally across river preparatory to proceeding down-Flood tide-Vessels sighted by each other when half a mile apart- Red light of Wirral Bank open on starboard bow of King's Channel; green light of King's Channel open on port bow of Wirral Bank-Collision in southern half of mid-channel between port bow of Wirral Bank and starboard bow of King's Channel - Allegations against King's Channel: that she was improperly navigating on her wrong side of the river and that, as a ship over 150 ft. in length, she was not carrying the second masthead light required by the Thames Rules- Obligation to show such additional masthead light where ship was also required to show towing lights - Allegations against Wirral Bank: that being aware of the position of King's Channel she (Wirral Bank) crossed at an improper time (in breach of Rule 39) and was also in breach of her duty under Rule 42 (a) in failing to "ease her speed or stop"-Applicability of both Rules-Criticism of single-handed navigation-Port of London River By-laws, 1938, Rules 8 (b), 14 (a), 38, 39, 42 (a). Collision - Navigation single-handed - Justification-Matters to be considered. Port of London River By-laws, 1938, Rules 8 (b), 14 (a)-Lights to be exhibited by vessel over 150 ft. in length which is towing. Port of London River By-Laws, 1938, Rules 38, 39, 42 (a)-Respective duties of vessels. Port of London River By-Laws, 1938, Rules 39, 42 (a)-Applicability of both Rules.