Sailors from Glasgow naval ship meet The Princess of Wales

A crew of 15 sailors were invited to meet Her Royal Highness on Thursday, September 29 for the first time since she was announced as the ship's sponsor in June 2021.

She was presented with an HMS Glasgow ship’s crest and challenge coin during the visit. 

Royal Navy (Image: Royal Navy)

Speaking about the momentous occasion, Warrant Officer Darran Sullivan said: “It was a huge honour to be invited to Windsor Castle and to meet Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales.

“The appointment of sponsor signals an enduring connection between the ship’s crew and Her Royal Highness. 

"It is clear from meeting her that she has a real interest in HMS Glasgow and in the lives of those who will serve onboard.”

Royal Navy (Image: Royal Navy)

Petty Officer Colin Chalmers, who joined as one of HMS Glasgow’s Marine Engineers last month, added: “It was amazing meeting The Princess of Wales, particularly as there was such a small group of us in attendance. 

"The moment she walked into the room her enthusiasm and genuine interest in us really shone through and put us immediately at ease.”

The state-of-the-art Type 26 frigate is currently under construction at the BAE Systems shipyard in the city's Govan as part of a 'new generation' of ships, joining HMS Cardiff and HMS Belfast. 

Royal Navy (Image: Royal Navy)

Their roles are primarily for anti-submarine warfare and air defence, although they can also perform counter-terrorism missions, disaster relief, and maritime security missions. 

It is thought that more than 25,000 Royal Navy, merchant, and passenger ships have been built on the River Clyde since the first yard opened in 1711, nine of which have been named HMS Glasgow. 

Commander Phil Burgess, the ship’s Senior Naval Officer said: “The entire ship’s company is looking forward to the time when we can invite The Princess of Wales onboard the ship and further develop the relationship between HMS Glasgow and her sponsors."