MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands recognizes the twelve year service of HMS Clyde

The Royal Navy's River-class vessel is recognized as the Falklands patrol ship, having been dedicated to the South Atlantic for the last 12 years.

A special service has been held at Christ Church Cathedral on the Falkland Islands to celebrate the work of a long-standing community member - HMS Clyde. The Royal Navy's River-class vessel is recognized as the Falklands patrol ship, having been dedicated to the South Atlantic for the last 12 years.

HMS Clyde monitors the territorial seas and airspace surrounding the Falkland Islands, with the crew regularly visiting settlements on the Islands.

Two sea-boats lay onboard, a Pacific 22 RIB and a Rigid Raider, ready for action on exercise with the Roulement Infantry Company.

Meanwhile, a modified flight deck enables aviation refueling and support in search and rescue from the relatively small ship. 

A morning march was followed by a service at Christ Church Cathedral in Stanley, recognizing the vessel flying the White Ensign as a lasting British presence in remote Overseas Territories such as South Georgia.

Lieutenant Commander Richard Skelton, Commanding Officer of HMS Clyde, says the dedication of the vessel to the Falklands 'strikes a chord' with many. He said: “She has never had any other duties, from commissioning until the day she is decommissioned.”

A morning march was followed by a service at Christ Church Cathedral in Stanley.