Many of the Dunkirk Little Ships originated from the Thames, which was then abundant with well-constructed cruising boats built shortly before the war and ideally suited for the evacuation task. The Thames remains a location where some of the 'lost' Dunkirk vessels are occasionally discovered, often by individuals with a keen eye for boats from the 1930s. Upon such discoveries, archival research is conducted using registration forms and Dunkirk-related documents to verify their histories. The findings can be heroic, amusing, or occasionally controversial.

Deenar was originally built as a naval steam pinnace in 1917 and served with distinction during the Dunkirk evacuation. Following the war, when her owner relocated to South Africa, the vessel was acquired by M. Russell-Snook, a confirmed bachelor. Mr. Russell-Snook often recounted the lively parties held aboard, which included guests whose names occasionally appeared in less reputable Sunday newspapers. Photographs from this period were considered unsuitable for formal publication.

After Mr. Russell-Snook moved to Cornwall, Deenar's condition declined. She was left at Weybridge Marina on the River Thames, where she gradually deteriorated and took on water until boatyard owner Terry Tappin removed her from the riverbank. In 1984, David and Andrew Smith undertook restoration efforts. They renewed her decks, wheelhouse, and cabins in the style of the 1920s, the era during which she was recognized as a Dunkirk Little Ship.