January 2012

LIVERPOOL Splice – the Type 42 Destroyer recently returned from a seven-month deployment off Libya, where it became the first Royal Navy warship to be fired upon in 30 years and returned that fire in self-defence.    The destroyer has reached the end of her natural life after 30 years' service and visited London as part of a farewell tour.   Alongside at the West India Docks (South Quay) the ship's company performed the ancient ceremony of the Constable's Dues at the Tower of London.   The tradition of the ceremony of the Constable's Dues dates back to the 14th century or before, when the Captain of a visiting Royal Navy vessel must deliver a barrel of grog to the Constable of the Tower in exchange for the protection of the Tower's guns while alongside.    The Royal Marine Band from COLLINGWOOD was in attendance at this ceremony.