HMS RICHMOND remains in the waters east of Andros Island in an area of the Bahamas known as the Tongue of the Ocean. Now at the end of a third week at AUTEC, the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Centre we have conducted daily trials on new equipment and techniques and have gathered a great deal of new data.

The trials also include us firing torpedoes and having them fired at us, all with carefully controlled safety arrangements in place of course.

The weather for the most part has been warm and sunny with the occasional shower from time to time. A routine for brief stand-offs ashore has been established and many of the Ships Company have been able to enjoy a restful day or two on Andros Island. Another chance for some leave came on the 15th when we made passage to Nassau on New Providence Island for some much needed fuel and stores. The entry was marked by some unusual activity on the approach to the berth including tugs and barges blocking the route and a seaplane taking off right in front of us. Most of the Ships Company ventured ashore for a night off before we sailed south again to resume our busy trials programme.

The mid deployment point was marked by a 'Cutting of the Log' ceremony, an old Dutch tradition ( see photograph ) which symbolically marks the middle of the deployment, and a Flight Deck movie for all in the evening. Moral remains high despite the busy programme and long hours many are working. We are all looking forward to the visits ahead and of course to the Queens Golden Jubilee Celebrations.