Families given glimpse of life on board HMS Blyth

Sailors from Faslane-based mine hunter HMS Blyth were joined by family, friends and loved-ones on Monday, April 25, when the ship held a families’ day alongside HM Naval Base Clyde.

Dozens of visitors took advantage of the opportunity with the group given a glimpse of life below decks on a Sandown Class Mine Counter Measures Vessel (MCMV) as well as a demonstration of some of the equipment used to find and safely dispose of mines around the globe. 

Commander Tim Davey, Commanding Officer of the First Mine Counter Measures Squadron (MCM1), said:  “The men and women of MCM1 often spend many weeks deployed on operations and the families’ day was an opportunity to show their loved-ones where they work and live when they’re away.

“It’s a challenging job for the crews but we recognise that having a loved-one away on deployment is challenging for families too.

"We hope that the day helped them better understand the vital role the crew plays in keeping the seas safe and protecting our country.”

The First Mine Counter Measures Squadron (MCM1) headquarters is based at HMNB Clyde and forms part of the Faslane Flotilla (FASFLOT). The Squadron comprises seven Sandown Class Mine Hunters and between them conduct mine clearance work.

The staff and ships of MCM 1 act as part of a deployed operational force, such as within the Gulf, or representing British interests in a NATO exercise.

Alternatively they could be operating in UK waters ensuring that ordnance that remains as a legacy of the World Wars is safely disposed. 

In addition to the administrative and logistical support to the Squadron’s ships home or abroad, the team form part of the UK’s dedicated Mine Warfare Battle Staff – enhanced by Royal Naval Reserve personnel – which can be deployed around the world to lead mine countermeasures operations and exercises in support of UK interests.