It’s been another weekend in the public spotlight for HMS Argyll – this time in Belgium. The frigate was Britain’s representative at Navy Days in Zeebrugge which were blessed by thousands of visitors… and the same dreadful weather as here in the UK.
Fresh from leading an Armed Forces Day sail past in Plymouth Sound, the Devonport-based frigate made for Zeebrugge, joining ships from the host nation plus visiting vessels from USA, Russia, Latvia, Germany, and Netherlands.
The ship treated thousands of members of the public – armed with ubiquitous brollies – to a number of displays around the upper deck which demonstrated the full capability and wide range of roles that Argyll could fulfil as she stands ready for any eventuality.
The ship’s company also tested their rowing ability in a race against the other nations teams coming a creditable third position out of the eight teams.
“It’s been a huge privilege to be invited to Zeebrugge to represent the Royal Navy at Belgian Navy Days, ” said Argyll’s Commanding Officer Cdr Tim Neild.
“The public have visited the ship in their thousands and have been highly impressed by what they have seen.
“The weekend has been a resounding success for all concerned, it is great to stand shoulder to shoulder with our naval partners and my team showed the true Argyll spirit and competitive edge that is so vital in all that we do.”
Having recently completed a busy period at sea completing trials and tests, Argyll is now preparing for an intensive period of training in the autumn under the guidance of Flag Officer Sea Training and his staff before deploying in 2013.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, July 9, 2012; Image: Royal Navy