Navy patrol vessel to drop anchor in Carrickfergus

Archer Class. Pic: Royal NavyArcher Class. Pic: Royal Navy
Archer Class. Pic: Royal Navy
A Royal Navy patrol boat is set to visit Carrickfergus Harbour next week as part of a summer deployment.

The vessel is scheduled to drop anchor on Wednesday (July 22) at 6.30pm and will be docked for one-and-half to two hours.

An invitation has been extended to the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, for a reception onboard.

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Anne Donaghy, council’s chief executive, told elected representatives at a recent meeting: “We have been very fortunate to secure a visit to Carrickfergus Harbour.

“Because of the size, they are able to come into the harbour. It will be quite a spectacular view.”

She went on to encourage onlookers to view the craft when it docks, but socially distancing.

At just over 20 metres long, the Royal Navy’s patrol boats are some of the smallest vessels in the fleet, giving them the ability to sail to smaller harbours.

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Captain Chris Smith, Naval Regional Commander for Scotland and Northern Ireland, said: “It is great to be able to bring the Royal Navy near to some of our smaller communities which, because of harbour size, don’t usually get a visit from our ships.

“The P2000s may be small, but they pack a punch, and regularly exercise around the UK and Europe as well as supporting the fleet.

“Usually we would be hosting visits from local groups and organisations while alongside but, with the current situation, this is unfortunately not possible.

“We hope to engage with local organisations across social media and using new technologies, and if people spot them in their area do give them a wave.”

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The summer deployment will provide the crews of the seven vessels which are on summer deployment with a unique opportunity to practise seamanship and navigation skills.

The fleet is currently touring the coast of Scotland.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter.

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