120 years of Vosper Thornycroft shipbuilders in Southampton

Not only would it construct some of the era's most magnificent vessels, but it would also forge a reputation and a sense of pride inextricably linked to Southampton's identity.

In the summer of 1904, the company took possession of the Woolston shipyard, bringing with it a rich heritage honed over decades on the Thames at Chiswick.

There, Sir John Thornycroft had laid the foundation for the firm in 1864, nurturing a legacy of innovation and craftsmanship.

It didn't take long for the company to establish a strong foothold on the River Itchen.

Construction of glass fibre hulls. (Image: Echo)

Order books swelled as the shipyard diversified its output, producing a wide range of vessels for both the armed forces and the merchant marines.

The delivery of HMS Lightning, the first torpedo boat to join the Royal Navy in 1876, ignited the interest of foreign powers, leading to substantial contracts for these and subsequent, larger craft.

As the scale of the vessels under construction grew, the company sought expanded facilities.

The shipbuilding operations were consequently transferred to Woolston, a site with a shipbuilding history dating back to around 1875.

Workers leaving Vosper's in Woolston. November 22, 1987. (Image: Echo)

Despite fluctuating fortunes and changes of ownership, the shipyard was adequately equipped when Thornycroft acquired it.

HMS Tartar, the first destroyer built at Woolston, was a marvel of its time, achieving an astonishing top speed of more than 35 knots.

During the First World War, the shipyard contributed significantly to the war effort, constructing between 40 and 50 military vessels.

Woolston's design team also played a crucial role in developing the vital depth charge thrower to combat the submarine threat.

Wedges are driven in to transfer the weight of the frigate to the slipways before launch in 1977. (Image: Echo)

The war's end brought a surge in demand for replacement vessels, including ferries, tugs, ocean-going yachts, and even cattle barges.

However, by 1939, the shipyard was once again mobilised for war production.

The company's extensive experience in building a diverse range of naval and commercial vessels, coupled with its engineering and construction expertise, proved invaluable in bringing the conflict to a victorious close.

Post-war, the workload remained relentless. Vessels destined for Malaya, Kenya, Nigeria, India, France, and Norway departed the Thornycroft yard in succession.

Thornycroft - September 17, 1968. (Image: Echo)

The company's skilled workforce also played a vital role in the overhaul and maintenance of the iconic Cunard liners Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth.

Nowadays, the once-bustling Thornycroft has been swept away.

The closure of the Thornycroft shipyard in 2004 marked the end of an era for Southampton.

The once-bustling site, which had played a pivotal role in the city's industrial and maritime history, fell silent.

The site's transformation began soon after. The vast expanse of land, with its distinctive shipyard structures, presented a significant opportunity for redevelopment.

The aim was to create a new, vibrant community that would respect the site's heritage while looking towards the future.

Thornycroft - April 26, 1971. (Image: Echo)

Much of the old shipyard infrastructure would have been demolished to make way for new construction including new roads, utilities, and public spaces.

A mix of housing, offices, retail spaces, and leisure facilities was constructed in its place.

As many will be aware, Thornycroft’s changed names various times.

First, back in the early 1900s, it was Thornycroft’s, then, six decades later, the company joined forces with Vosper and, lastly, these two highly respected names were discarded in favour of the anonymous sounding VT Group.

The plate “Made in Southampton’’ was once a symbol that guaranteed quality, craftsmanship and, above all, a proud tradition.

While the Thornycroft name may no longer exist in terms of shipbuilding, its legacy endures.

For countless Southampton residents, it will forever be a chapter etched into the city's history, a testament to a bygone era of shipbuilding excellence.