On May 1, 1912 the post of Admiral of Patrols was established responsible for five destroyer flotillas covering waters around the British Isles.

After the implementation took place Rear Admiral John de Robeck was then replaced as ADMOP by a new commander Commodore George A.

The majority of British trawlers were commandeered by the Admiralty, and those left were obliged to fish in groups of 20 with additional protection.

The Auxiliary Patrol was crewed by fishermen and led mainly by Merchant Navy men commissioned into the Royal Naval Reserve.

Their trawlers were retrofitted with armaments, typically 3-pdr,6-pdr or 12-pounder guns as well as 7.5-inch Bomb Throwers (Anti Submarine howitzers).