Visiting the City of Cartagena on the biggest holiday weekend of the year for Columbia was no mean feat for HMS Richmond.

Accompanied by Royal Fleet Auxiliary Wave Ruler, the ship presented a stunning backdrop to celebrations for the Miss Columbia beauty pageant lasting all weekend.

Richmond and Wave Ruler had arrived at Cartagena, just as the city was mopping up and recovering from severe flooding after a recent deluge lasting several days. As is now typical of Richmond, the ship played their part by hosting children from a local orphanage, putting on a party and tour of the ship.

A reception in RFA Wave Ruler, made for an auspicious occasion as both ships joined forces to host guests and contestants for the Miss Columbia title. Meeting local dignitaries and members of the public, as well as members of both Ships' Companies, the contestants were paraded in what was to be a key stage event for the pageant. All in aid of charity the reception proved very popular, raising money for local charities and receiving generous coverage from the Colombian national media.