HMS Severn Completes Operational Sea Training

Her time in Faslane commenced with one week’s ‘shakedown’ where the ship prepared to be presented at her best to the FOSTies for the Material Assessment and Safety Check.

Ensuring security, cleanliness and knowledge of the Ship’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) was key. High standards were expected of Severn and several months of hard work paid off with a ‘Very Satisfactory’ result being achieved.

The three weeks that followed saw Severn’s Ship’s company training for every eventuality; including fire, flood, salvage, gunnery and more.  The long hours and varied training programme are designed to test Severn’s ability to safely meet the requirements of the broad spectrum of activities with which we can become involved.

The final inspection marked the end of the Operational Sea Training. It required the Ship again to be presented at “Admiral’s Rounds Standard” and everyone is proud to say we achieved a Satisfactory result overall. Post final inspection celebrations had to be delayed overnight however, due to hurricane force winds preventing re-entry to Faslane for 20 hours.

Severn’s time in Faslane also provided the opportunity for some of the crew to complete Adventurous Training. This included mountain biking, climbing and walking in the surrounding area which was a welcome break and a great opportunity for character and team building.

Two groups climbed the “Cobbler” mountain, which is at the Southerly end of the Monroe Range and is an 883 summit; the team from Red Watch particularly enjoyed the deep snow at the top of the mountain.

Severn is now on what is to be her final patrol of the year and the training is not over for all of Ship’s Company. This patrol incorporates sea riding training for new Executive Officer, Lieutenant Matt Warren.

Sea riding is the practical element of training as a Marine Enforcement Officer which qualifies Officers to conduct inspections of fishing vessels. Weather permitting; he will board daily under the supervision of an experienced Marine Management Organisation Officer.

Next stop for Severn is back to Portsmouth for some hard earned Christmas leave. In 2011 we have conducted 417 inspections resulting in 110 verbal rebriefs, 12 official written warnings, 26 statements forwarded for further investigation and 5 detentions.

Merry Christmas and Happy New year to all who have supported us in 2011!!