BP SHIPPING LTD.

British Tanker’s original triband with “BTC” lasted until 1926, when a St George’s cross flag with a central green diamond and golden lion passant guardant replaced it. In 1955 the lion became red and rampant. B559’s funnel was used until 1968. The National Maritime Museum specimen, dated about 1955–67, measures 914.4 × 1422.4 mm. Sources differ on whether the livery change coincided with the company’s renaming; World Tankers puts the new markings in January 1955 but the name change in June 1956.

In 1968 the BP shield on white, bordered green, replaced the lion flag, with a corresponding funnel marking. British Norness confirms the funnel in May 1982. Mitchell ends this livery in 1983, whereas NJK gives 1990.

Mitchell dates this funnel to 1983–94, while World Tankers gives 1990–95, followed by restoration of the B25 funnel.