1918, Armstrong, Whitworth, Low Walker. Sank as Essex Lance 15.10.1943 by U-426 when part of convoy ONS-20 (Swansea, Milford Haven for Halifax).

War Courage was y no 952, ON 142684, launched 5 Sept 1918 with completion the following month shortly before the end of hostilities which explains the 4" gun on her poop. Also has a pretty impressive array of derricks and a notable list to port.

Became Glensanda in 1919 then Essex Lance in 1928.

Sunk by 1 torpedo from U426 15 Oct 1943 at 1045 breaking in 2, she was a straggler from the large and very heavily escorted convoy ONS-20. All 52 onboard rescued by rescue ship Accrington. Essex Lance was this convoys only casualty with 2 U boats sunk, the tables during the war in the Atlantic were now turning against the U boat through much endeavour by the Allies.

U426 would be sunk with her entire 51 complement in a depth charge attack by Sunderland of Coastal Command 8 Jan 1944.

Where's our tug experts, an Alexandra (?) with 2 funnels?

Don't think Alexandra, my thoughts are more southern hemisphere, maybe JAMES PATERSON built by Rennoldson in 1902.

See: http://www.tynetugs.co.uk/jamespaterson1902.html

Good match Dave, I did say we needed a tug expert!

The original image shows her flying a flag from her fore mast.

In the naval and special flags this is flag L. Pretty well defunct now.
Of the flags and pendants in the international code it is flag V and still used to this day.

Easy for confusion but in this instance both the respective L and V were used to request assistance, as here. Both are similar to the Irish flag of St Patrick, red cross, white background. Only flags H, M and R were identical in both flag groups.