The Steamship Freshspring Trust was honoured to welcome senior members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) during their recent visit to North Devon for the steel-cutting ceremony of RFA Resurgent, the first of a new class of Fleet Solid Support ships being constructed at Appledore Shipyard.
While in the area, Cdre Sam Shattock RFA and accompanying personnel took the opportunity to visit SS Freshspring, just one and a half miles upstream on the River Torridge. Freshspring is the last surviving Fresh-class water carrier — a fleet of 14 small but hardworking vessels built in the immediate aftermath of the Second World War.
Honouring a Rare Survivor of Naval Heritage
Originally known as RFA Freshspring, the ship served extensively in Malta, supporting warships and other RFA vessels with fresh water and boiler feed water. Later in her career she operated on the Clyde as a passenger transfer vessel before being sold into civilian hands. After plans for her commercial use fell through, she lay dormant on the River Severn for decades.
Thanks to a determined group of volunteers, Freshspring was rescued from dereliction and has since been transformed into a floating museum and educational space — preserving an extraordinary piece of post-war naval history.
A Connection Between Past and Future
During the visit, volunteers guided the RFA team through the ship, highlighting her service history and the extensive restoration undertaken since she arrived in Bideford in 2016.
Cdre Shattock expressed his appreciation for the Trust’s work, presenting a challenge coin as a gesture of thanks for Freshspring’s hospitality. He praised the volunteers’ dedication:
“Their tireless commitment has not only preserved this unique piece of maritime history but is transforming her into an active educational and cultural asset. Their stewardship ensures that the legacy of the RFA, and the story of ships like Freshspring, will continue to inspire future seafarers for many years to come.”
RFA Chief of Staff, Chief Officer Tim Hill, reflected on the symbolism of the visit:
“The look around the old vessel formed an elegant bridge between past and present, linking a heritage steamship that once served with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary with the next generation of technologically advanced support ships that will secure the future of naval operations. While the tools and technologies have evolved, the core values of service, support, and seamanship remain constant across generations.”
A Moment of Pride for Freshspring and the Community
The Trust is deeply proud that Freshspring — now a fully accredited museum ship — continues to resonate with those who serve in today’s fleet. Her survival offers a rare, tangible connection to the RFA’s maritime heritage, while her current role supports learning, engineering education, and community engagement.
