HMS Iron Duke returns to ABP’s Port of Hull for a public open day

ABP says this weekend saw HMS Iron Duke return to ABP’s Port of Hull for a resoundingly successful public open day.

The Type 23 Duke-class frigate berthed up in Hull at the end of last week and received distinguished guests on board such as Lord Mayor of Hull, Councillor Sean Chaytor, Mayor of Immingham, Councillor Stewart Swinburn and Mayor of North East Lincolnshire, Councillor Christina McGilligan-Fell before the open day on Saturday.

Having lowered the gangway to all on Saturday, HMS Iron Duke welcomed over 2,000 members of the public on board and ran regular tours around the lower and upper decks of the warship.

Amongst other impressive military weapons, the crew on board the warship were able to show off their state-of-the-art radar system which has the capability to track more than 800 potential targets at any one time.

The open day, which ran for five-hours was co-ordinated by a cadre of ABP volunteers who, despite the rain’s best efforts, remained enthusiastic throughout the day.

Simon Bird, Regional Director for ABP Humber, said: “We are honoured that HMS Iron Duke requested to come alongside at the Port of Hull. We are always keen to show our support to the hardworking service men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our country and it was wonderful to see so many members of the public taking an interest in our heritage.” 

Hull’s adopted warship will be leaving the port early this week and is set to be deployed for Operational Sea Training later on this year. The training assesses crew members and machines to ensure their readiness to perform front line duties.