HISTORY: Built for Consolidated Fisheries Ltd at a cost of £29,352

Thursday 3^rd June 1937

It was reported that work on the building of the Aston Villa had also been halted because of a delay in the delivery of the boilers for the vessel. This was also due to the pressure of work on armaments for the nation.

Wednesday 9^th June 1937

The name Aston Villa was secured today for the vessel being built in yard number 1029 at Smiths dock, Middlesbrough.

Tuesday 15^th June 1937

The fishing number GY428 was allocated to the Aston Villa.

Friday 3^rd September 1937

After completing a successful trial trip, the Aston Villa proceeded on to Grimsby. 

Saturday 4^th September 1937
The Aston Villa was delivered from the builders yard this morning at 0435hrs and hit the middle pier as she entered the dock. Damage to the pier was set at £3 16s 6d.

Tuesday 7^th September 1937
The new trawler sailed on her maiden voyage to Bear Island under the command of Skipper W. Mogg. 

September 1939
The Admiralty requisitioned the Aston Villa where she served as an anti-submarine vessel FY261.

Thursday 23^rd November 1939
Arriving at Blyth for her On-Survey, the Aston Villa had her hull examined which was found to be in good condition as were her boilers. The survey report, however, showed 39 items that had to be examined and/or refitted. A satisfied engineer finally stamped the Aston Villa as cleared on Saturday 23^rd February 1940.

The Aston Villa Crew The Photograph on the right is Patrick Archibold Thomson, Chief Petty Officer, from Hull. He is in the second row, on the right wearing the scarf, behind the crewman with the hood. He died in 1960. Photograph supplied by his grandson, Andrew Newington.