HMS Severn is now back at sea having just sailed from the Jersey Boat Show where she was representing the Royal Navy in support of Naval Regional Commander Wales, Western England, and the Channel Islands, Commodore Jamie Miller CBE over the bank holiday weekend.
The Ship has been extremely busy but exceptionally well received by the Islanders with over 4000 people able to receive a tour of the ship whilst she opened her gangway to the public.
Young Officer Sub-Lieutenant Rob Henderson said, “It has been an extremely rewarding experience and the feedback from the public has been great. Everyone seemed genuinely delighted that there was such a large naval presence.”
Money collected in charity buckets throughout the weekend in support of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, which supports service personnel and their families both at home and deployed, was matched by Barclays, meaning over £4100 was raised from the generosity of the Jersey public.
In addition to the ship being open to visitors Severn also hosted a Reception and Capability Demonstration on Saturday night with key personnel from the island attending, including the Lieutenant-Governor of Jersey, His Excellency General Sir John McColl KCB CBE DSO.
The Corps of Drums from the Royal Marines Band Plymouth impressed guests with their skill and musicality, before the highlight of the evening; the age-old tradition of ceremonial sunset, which included a ceremonial guard comprising members of Severn’s Ship’s Company.
The Royal Navy Presentation Team were also on hand to explain just what it is that the Navy does in order to protect our nation’s interests.
On Sunday, on behalf of his Ship’s Company, six of whom who were able to be present and all whom had all played their part in the Ship’s success in 2015, Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander James Reynolds was presented the Jersey Cup.
This was in recognition of the award of the Fishery Protection Squadron’s Efficiency Pennant for best Offshore Patrol Vessel and her continued hard work throughout 2015 including a successful first-of-class Atlantic Patrol Task (North) deployment.
The final event on-board was a buffet lunch for a number of key dignitaries and boat-show personalities, including the Harbour Master and other Port of Jersey personnel.
Lieutenant Commander Reynolds added: “It has been a wonderful privilege to bring my Ship to Jersey to support the boat show.
“Severn achieved an incredible amount in 2015 and it is only just that the Ship’s Company have been able to enjoy a visit to Jersey as recognition for their efforts.
“To have so many people visit the Ship and be received and hosted so well is very humbling.”
Severn sailed from Jersey on 3 May to continue with her Fishery Protection and Maritime Enforcement Operations.
