HMS Duncan has made its much-anticipated, and slightly delayed, arrival in Dundee.
The Type 45 destroyer cruised into the King George V Wharf under the cover of darkness shortly before 5pm on Friday.
The ship had been due to arrive in the early hours of the morning but was delayed by Thursday’s extreme weather.
It is just over two months since HMS Duncan, the sixth and last of the Daring-Class destroyers, became a commissioned member of the Royal Navy fleet.
One of the first official appointments is to visit the ship’s twin city. Dundee was once the home of the man whose name the destroyer now bears Admiral Adam Duncan, who, in 1797, defeated the Dutch fleet at the Battle of Camperdown.
Civic dignitaries and other guests will enjoy a reception on board on Friday evening before the public get their chance for a close-up look over the weekend.
The gangway will be open to all from 11am to 3pm on Saturday and Sunday.
A Royal Navy spokesman said: “Crew members will be on hand to guide visitors around her decks, chatting to them about the role of HMS Duncan at the heart of the Royal Navy, as well as their experiences in the Senior Service protecting our nation’s interests at home and further afield.”
Access is free. Visitors are advised to walk from the King George V Wharf Road Gate, next to the Dundee Sea Cadet Centre, on East Camperdown Street, where parking is available.
Commander James Stride, HMS Duncan’s commanding officer, said: “This is our first visit to our adopted city and it is fitting that it is one of our first destinations since being formally accepted into the fleet in September.
“She has now proved herself at sea and is operating alongside her other five sisters.
“I am hugely proud to be the first commanding officer to bring her to Dundee. The ship’s name alone has great resonance in this area.
“My ship’s company and I feel extremely privileged to be affiliated to such an historic maritime city and are honoured to have been invited by the lord provost and Dundee City Council to a special reception at the City Chambers.”
Commander Stride added: “Duncan is a tangible reminder of one the Royal Navy’s great commanders and the significant battle won. We are also particularly looking forward to welcoming visitors on board during our visit especially when the ship opens to the public on Saturday and Sunday.”
Dundee lord provost Bob Duncan said: “I am delighted to welcome the officers and crew of HMS Duncan to the City of Dundee for their first visit to the vessel’s spiritual home.
“I am sure that everyone involved with the ship will enjoy their time in the city and that this visit will be the first of many in the years to come.”
For more coverage of HMS Duncan’s arrival in Dundee, including more photos, see Saturday’s Courier or try our digital edition.
Photo courtesy of Foxhound Photography