The Leith owned steamer “Inverawe” at Penarth Dock in July 1927. The ship is discharging her Spanish or North African grown cargo of esparto grass which was used in the papermaking process at the nearby Ely Paper Mill. Dry esparto grass is highly flammable but when wetted, becomes so heavy that it could affect the stability of the ship. The grass when dry was so light that large quantities could be stowed on deck; but I feel sure that the crew prayed for a fair weather crossing of the Bay of Biscay which was notorious for high seas and inclement weather. In the colourised enlargement, the pontoon, offices and works of the Penarth Pontoon and Slipway Company may be seen in close proximity at the head of the dock. [025] [079]

The following table provides an insight into the cranage utilised at the esparto importation wharf. No. 8 crane is closest, then Nos. 5 , 7 and distant is No. 9. The data is taken from the Great Western Railway, Cardiff Docks Sections, Particulars of Penarth Dock Appliances of 1932 held within the Glamorgan Archives. [599] [Archive Reference : D31-3]