SCUBA August 2021 Issue 117 | Page 37

My first dive on the SS East Point is one that I will remember for a very long time . As we arrived at a depth of nearly 70 metres , I was immediately struck by the excellent visibility and the way I could see torches belonging to those ahead of us moving in the distance . My own torch picked out the massive triple expansion engine , which was standing some 6-7 metres vertically upright with the shot draped over it . Huge sections of ribs picked out the line of the hull ; among the tangled wreckage I could see the unmistakeable whiteness of broken crockery . More out of curiosity than any real expectation of finding something , I had a closer look and was stunned to find an intact mug bearing the logo of the Furness Line .

Back on the surface I started to become fascinated by this tangible link to the men who must have sailed on board the East Point , and would have been the last people to hold the mug . At this point I had no idea that the determination to answer questions such as who were they and what happened to them would lead me to uncover some incredible tales that continue into the modern day .
Furness Withy branded crockery was an important factor in identifying the East Point . This cup was declared to the Receiver of Wreck
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