HMS E41 (Lt AM Winser) was ordered under the Emergency War Programme. She was converted into a minelayer whilst building and, on commissioning, joined the 8th Flotilla at Harwich on 24 February 1916. On 15 August 1916, whilst exercising off Harwich on the surface, E41 collided with the submerged E4 (Lt Cdr JT Tenison) resulting in the loss of both vessels. E4 sank with all hands. There were 15 survivors from E41 including Stoker Petty Officer Brown who made a remarkable free ascent escape. After being successfully salvaged, E41 was recommissioned by Lt Norman Holbrook VC and, on 18 March, returned to the Harwich flotilla to resume minelaying patrols.