The ship’s bell and other iconic items from minehunter HMS Blyth have been entrusted to townsfolk for posterity.
The Faslane-based minehunter bowed out of service after two decades in 2021 and now patrols the Black Sea as Sublocotenent Ion Ghiculescu under the Romanian flag, while autonomous systems and remote-controlled craft replace the Sandown-class vessel and her sisters.
Should the name Blyth be resurrected in the future, the bell from the hunter, plus her name plate and battle honours board are held by the Blyth Town Council for safe keeping.
The artefacts were donated will full pomp and ceremony at Blyth Bede Academy, featuring an opening performance by the Royal Marines Corps of Drums and static displays by various units of the Royal Navy, Maritime Reserves, and military charities.
Naval Regional Commander for the North of England and Isle of Man Commodore Tom Knowles addressed nearly 250 guests including local MPs, Northumberland’s Deputy Lieutenant Andy Collier and Blyth’s Mayor Councillor Warren Taylor.
“This was an event to be proud of, but it was also tinged with sadness as our adopted ship has been decommissioned,” Cllr Taylor said.
“We are a proud naval town having had a major submarine base in South Harbour during World War 2 and our relationship with the Royal Navy is very strong.
“We will take great care of the bell and will ensure that as many people as possible will be able to see it over the years.”
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