Portsmouth based Type 23 frigate HMS Lancaster completed a visit to the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda at the start of her six-month deployment to the North Atlantic and Caribbean. Bermuda was the first port of call since Lancaster left Portsmouth on the 28th May and crossed the Atlantic.
The aim of the visit was to provide reassurance and security to Bermuda at the start of the core hurricane season.
Contingency plans have been discussed with the local services and authorities, meaning that if Lancaster has to return to Bermuda to provide humanitarian aid and disaster relief she can respond quickly and effectively.
HMS Lancaster’s Commanding Officer, Commander Steve Moorhouse, said:
“It was a great honour to visit Bermuda as the first stop of Lancaster’s deployment and continue the long relationship the Royal Navy has had with the island.
“We were made to feel very welcome by the Governor and all the people of Bermuda and I am delighted we had the opportunity to work with the Bermuda Regiment as well as the emergency services.”
During Lancaster’s stay the ship’s company have attended a reception at the Governor’s residence, the change of command parade at the Bermudan Regiment and the commanding officer has met with local dignitaries, emphasising the Royal Navy’s continued commitment to the region.
In addition Lancaster opened her gangway to the public on Saturday giving well over a 1000 locals a chance to explore the upper deck of a warship and speak to the sailors.
Lancaster will leave Bermuda knowing she has conducted a successful reassurance visit in preparation for the hurricane season, whilst providing the sailors with an excellent opportunity to explore a beautiful island, sample the Bermudan culture and strike up new relationships.
[mappress] Press release, June 13, 2013; Image: Royal Navy