AN able seaman whose wartime exploits helped sink six U-boats on a single patrol made an emotional return to Liverpool to mark the 60th anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic.

George Atkins of Canterbury Road, Ronkswood, Worcester, thought ill health had scuppered any chance of meeting up with his former shipmates on HMS Wild Goose to pay tribute to Captain Walker, who had led the all-conquering Second Escort Group.

Determined

But his Ronkswood neighbours, Jenny and David Ballinger were determined the 81-year-old's breathing problems shouldn't stop the poignant reunion on Saturday, May 3, and drove him to the docks.

Mr Atkins was part of an Atlantic patrol, which in just 20 days destroyed a six-strong fleet of submarines - the biggest blow delivered to enemy U-boats in the Second World War.

The U-boats hunted in "wolf packs", picking off merchant ships throughout the Atlantic.

Losses reached their height in 1942 when 1,661 ships were sunk- 1,159 of them by U-boats. But once the Naval Enigma code was cracked in 1943, a heavy blow was dealt to the German's stealth tactics.

With more effective long-range sea and air cover, the tide began to turn in favour of the Allies

"Once the code was cracked we could easily locate the subs and we used depth charges to take them out," said Mr Atkins. "Although I couldn't swim, I always had confidence we would get through.

"It was great to see all my old comrades again in Liverpool."

He added that the reunion had been a special occasion and was indebted to his neighbours.

"It was a very special service and an emotional reunion, and with my bad asthma I simply couldn't have made it on my own," said Mr Atkins.

"I want to thank Jenny and David for helping me to make this special occasion - that's a real example of good neighbours for you."