Royal Navy Warship HMS Grimsby made two enjoyable but short visits to the North East as part of a regional engagement programme and in support of a traditional celebration close to the heart of all sailors, Trafalgar Day.
The 450-tonne Mine Countermeasures Vessel was first alongside at Victoria Quay in Hartlepool for a 2 day stay before departing Teesside for the short trip north to transit under the Millennium Bridge and berth at Newcastle Quays.
The ship – under the command of Lieutenant Commander Mark Hammon Royal Navy then returned to her busy programme conducting operational tasking around UK waters.
Lt Cdr Mark Hammon said:
“It is vital to us in the Royal Navy that we are able to make visits like these to key British ports such as Hartlepool and Newcastle to reinforce our close bonds that come about as a result of our being an island nation largely reliant on the sea for our economy and security.
“I know that my Crew have had and excellent time in the North East, Hartlepool was fantastic and Newcastle is also a favourite place to visit for the Royal Navy, two cities where we are always assured of a warm welcome.”
SLt Martyn Harris RN- Navigating Officer of HMS Grimsby said:
“It’s my first ever visit to the North East, and it has been brilliant, everyone was extremely welcoming and friendly.
“Almost half of the Crew are from this area and for them it has been a bit of a home-coming.”
Sailors were sent to numerous events around the area, including a celebration of Nelson’s “right hand man” at Trafalgar, Admiral Lord Collingwood where a “celebratory tot” was drunk in his honour.
Following the success of the two previous visits, the Crew of HMS Grimsby then found themselves in the East; conducting Remembrance Sunday in the town of Grimsby. 12 members of the ships company were present for the ceremonies, which were conducted in company with 250 Medical Squadron (TA) and other organisations including Sea Cadets and Sea Scout Groups.
The ceremonies involved a march through the town to the War memorial, the laying of wreath on behalf of the Royal Navy and a march past for the Mayor of Grimsby.
SLt Stephanie Moss RN, an officer under training on board HMS Grimsby, was “deeply moved by the occasion and felt that it provided a fitting remembrance to those who gave so much for their country.”
All those who took part in the events in Grimsby were made to feel very welcome not only by those hoisting them, but by all the people of the town.
[mappress] Press Release, November 25, 2013; Image: Royal Navy