HMS Mersey, one of the Royal Navy’s River Class Offshore Patrol vessels, (OPV) visited St Helier the capital of Jersey for the 2018 Jersey Boat Show held over the May Bank Holiday weekend.
Over a three day period she opened her gangway to over a thousand visitors and held a capability demonstration for local dignitaries - including the Lieutenant Governor of Jersey, Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton GCB, as well as hosting numerous friends and affiliates of the Royal Navy.
Members of the Ship’s Company also attended a range of events including a formal reception at the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club to engage with the local community and reaffirm the Royal Navy’s commitment to the Channel Islands.
During the weekend Lieutenant Ryan Woodridge, HMS Mersey’s Operations Officer, was fortunate enough to receive the Jersey Cup on behalf of their sister ship, HMS Tyne.
The Jersey cup is awarded annually to the Fishery Protection Ship which has done the most to safeguard the UK’s fishery stocks.
This all provided a welcome change of pace for Mersey, whose primary role is Marine Enforcement Operations. She has also made headlines recently for escorting Russian vessels through UK waters.
“Notwithstanding the rich history between the Royal Navy and Jersey, I have been overwhelmed by the warmth of the reception Mersey has received whilst alongside in St Helier,” said Lt Cdr Ben Power RN, Commanding Officer HMS Mersey.
Many of the Ship’s Company also hosted and attended events throughout the weekend as part of the Royal Navy’s long standing relationship with the Channel Islands.
“It was great to show people what it is we do – normally I talk to friends about my work and they don’t really get it, but during this kind of event we get to show and meet people,” said Able Seaman Daniel Witt.
Mersey arrived at the Jersey Boat Show straight from conducting Marine Enforcement Operations around the coast of the UK.
She represents a standing commitment by the Royal Navy to the Marine Management Organisation. However, she is also at immediate notice to conduct any contingent tasking that may be required.
