Montrose bids farewell to Royal Navy ship
HMS Montrose travelled more than 400,000 miles during her lifetime
Last updated 14th Mar 2023
Royal Navy frigate HMS Montrose bid her affiliated town a fond farewell during her final ever visit to Angus on the East Coast of Scotland.
The Type 23 frigate, which has sailed over 4,000 miles since her launch in 1992, came alongside the Port of Montrose last Saturday, being welcomed by members of Angus Council and other well-wishers.
On Sunday, the ship lowered her gangway to ticketed visitors with some 5,000 people attending for a guided tour and to meet members of the crew.
“I can’t think that there could have been a better final port visit for our ship,” said Commander Claire Thompson OBE RN, Commanding Officer of HMS Montrose.
“HMS Montrose has been part of the Royal Navy for over 30 years and for her to end her time here at Montrose has been amazing.
“From the ship open to visitors, which sold out, through to sports fixtures, additional tours, and receptions, we have been spoiled by the affection we received from the town of Montrose.
"I am incredibly grateful for the support.”
During the stop-over, the ship’s company also hosted the Lord Lieutenant and Provost of Angus, as well as members of local Sea Cadet units.
Members of the crew also played against local football and golf teams.
On Monday, the crew also took the opportunity to lay a wreath at the grave of “Bamse”.
A St Bernard dog, during the Second World War Bamse served on the Norwegian coastal patrol ship “Thorodd” stationed at Montrose.
He became a well-known and much-loved sight in the town as well as a symbol of Norwegian freedom.
For Leading Seaman (Above Water Tactical) Paul Linford, the visit to the town was particularly poignant.
A Montrose native, Paul relished the opportunity to take the ship home and to have his sister, Sarah, brother-in-law, Lewis, and nephew, Ruairidh, on board.
“My nephew asks quite a lot what it’s like on HMS Montrose,” said Paul, “so it is fantastic to be able to show him first-hand where I work.
“It was also great to catch-up with some of my friends in Montrose and introduce them to those friends I have made in the Royal Navy.
“I’ve wanted to be in the Navy since I was in first year at High School – around 12 years old – so to be able to return to Montrose onboard HMS Montrose has been a privilege.
"The support which the town has given us has been really quite special.”