HMS RICHMOND completed her period of trials at AUTEC off Andros Island in the Bahamas on the 29th of May and immediately sailed north for New Providence Island.

Berthing once again in the capital Nassau and surrounded by large and luxurious cruise liners we arrived for a well-deserved 5 day visit. The pilotage into port proved less hectic than our previous visits although remained challenging due to the very confined waters.

Once alongside there was much to prepare for the days ahead. The ships ceremonial lighting was checked and rigged ( see photograph ), the flight deck awning erected with guard and ceremonial sunset training also taking place.

Thursday saw the Captain conducting calls on the British High Commissioner and the Governor of the Bahamas and then holding a lunch party onboard for the Commodore of the Royal Bahamian Defence Force and 3 Ministers from the newly elected government.

That evening RICHMOND hosted a reception in support of the Jubilee Appeal for Commonwealth Veterans with some 150 guests attending. £3500 was raised and despite some early rain ceremonial sunset was conducted to round off a busy day.

Additionally whilst alongside teams were raised to play a football match against the national under 20's team, a rugby game against a local side and some even managed a round of golf. A few also got up early to watch England play football at a local bar in the small hours of Saturday morning. Despite relatively poor weather and the busy programme the ships company still found time to sightsee, shop and relax.

Now back at sea RICHMOND is heading for Norfolk, Virginia on the East Coast of mainland USA. The three-day trip includes Navigation, Seamanship and Fire fighting training provided by a mobile team based at Devonport Naval Base in the UK.

The weather remains hot but bearable and spirits are high as we prepare for the final month of the deployment and look forward to the journey home.