Scale: 1:48. Builder's full hull model of 'P34' (1916), an anti-submarine patrol boat.

Early in the First World War the Admiralty recognized the need for a small patrol vessel to combat the submarine menace and a standard design was accepted in 1915. The basic requirements were a fair speed, shallow draught, low silhouette, economy of fuel, and simplicity of construction so that shipyards experienced in building merchant ships could be used. The patrol boats were to be of a minimum size with good sea-keeping qualities and manoeuvrability. The design was an instant success – an initial batch of vessels, ‘P-11’ – ‘P-34’, being quickly followed by a repeat order.

Their construction was of mild steel, with a hard steel stem for ramming. The stern was cut away above and below water, and a large rudder fitted to increase turning ability. The armament consisted of a single 4-inch gun, although the model shows a second gun fitted aft; this addition was proposed in 1916 but adopted in only one vessel, ‘P-52’. For anti-submarine work an explosive paravane sweep was fitted; later the newly developed depth charges were added.

These P-boats were perhaps the first type of ship designed specifically as anti-submarine vessels and they gave excellent service, while at the same time releasing destroyers for other duties. Together with most of the class, the ‘P-34’ was disposed of shortly after the end of the War. The model is everything one would expect from Barclay Curle, finely made and well finished in an understated Edwardian mahogany case.