Summary

Model of the Royal Navy York class heavy cruiser (8250 tons) HMS York. Built by Palmers Shipbuilding & Iron Co. and commissioned in 1930, York was the class leader for five projected heavy cruisers of which only HMS Exeter was built. During the 1930s York served with the America, West Indies and Mediterrannean Stations. During World War II, York was part of Force F based at Halifax as part of anti-surface raider patrols. Later York took part in the Norwegian Campaign and went to the Mediterranean in August 1940 to join the 3rd Cruiser Squadron where she engaged the Italian Navy in several actions. In March 1941 while at anchor in Suda Bay, Crete, York was severely damaged by two Italian EMB motor boats of the 10th Light Flotilla which were designed to explode on impact after their drivers had set the tiller and jumped into the water. Despite several attempts at salvage, the York was abandoned and scuttled after the German attack on Crete began in May 1941. The wreck was broken up after the war.

This model was purchased from the modelmaker Mr E.J. Krummeck in 1941. It is part of a collection of British and Australian naval ship models built by Krummeck.

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