UK: HMS Severn Leaves Leith

Royal Navy vessel HMS Severn is now back on patrol following her presence at the world-famous Edinburgh Tattoo. The patrol ship, which is one of three sister ships in the Portsmouth-based Fishery Protection Squadron, was berthed at Leith Docks on the outskirts of Edinburgh.

From here she supported the Tattoo by providing a welcome platform for three Regional Capability Demonstrations (RCDs) hosted by Rear Admiral Hockley, Flag Officer Scotland, Northern England and Northern Ireland.

The RCDs are designed to show visitors the capabilities of a ship – with briefs on types of taskings, demonstration of weaponry and command and control systems.

During her time alongside HMS Severn hosted a number of VIPs including Vice Admiral David Steele the Second Sea Lord of the Royal Navy and the Rt Hon Dr Andrew Murrison – Minister for International Security Strategy.

VAdm Steel said:

“The personnel were all a credit to their ship and left a lasting and hugely positive impression on all of us.”

HMS Severn also played host to a group from SaBRE (Support for British Reserved Employers), who specialise in liaising with civilian employers of reservist personnel. Six employers where given a tour of the ship alongside presentations on how the Royal Naval Reserve contributes to the operational fighting capability of the regular Navy.

The Fisheries Protection Squadron (FPS) is primarily tasked with enforcing EU and UK Fisheries Legislation on behalf of the UK’s Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

The ships of the squadron conduct surveillance and boardings to ensure that fishermen meet the requirements of the Common Fisheries Policy and UK fishing and environmental legislation in UK Fishing Limits, and across EU waters in conjunction with vessels and personnel of the Fishery Protection squadrons of other member states.

The Squadron also carries a role of contributing to the maritime security of the UK and Falkland Islands, and assists in rescues and other assistance to vessels in UK waters.

[mappress]
Press Release, August 30, 2013; Image: Royal Navy