Ship wins Freedom of Monmouth (From Free Press Series)

Ship wins Freedom of Monmouth

The ship's company of HMS Monmouth were granted the Freedom of the town in a prestigious ceremony on Sunday.

Hundreds of people watched the proceedings taking place in Agincourt Square and lined the streets of as the ship's company exercised the rights bestowed as part of the Freedom ceremony.

The first HMS Monmouth was launched in 1666 and subsequent vessels have continued links with the town.

Royal Navy Commodore Toby Elliot, also president of the Royal Naval Association Monmouth branch, suggested the idea to the town council last summer.

This weekend's ceremony began when HMS Monmouth's Commander, Guy Haywood, invited the mayor to inspect the ship's company, the Royal Marine Band and cadets.

Civic leaders were out in force to watch the mayor, Councillor Susan White, hand over a scroll to Commander Guy Haywood.

Cllr White said: "Your ship has a very special place in our hearts, perhaps only shared with our affiliated regiment The Royal Monmouth Royal Engineers (Militia).

"The ship is the seventh to be named after the infamous Duke of Monmouth, but uniquely the first to wear the emblem of the town's fortified bridge as her crest.

"To us all, this symbol acts as a clear signal of affiliation between ship and town, culminating in this ceremony.

"This is not a Freedom that has been given lightly, rather it is one that has been well earned. "This historic town has always felt a strong affiliation with the Royal Navy. For many centuries, there have been families in the town who have sent their young men and women off to serve in this great service. And, of course, the town has a historic connection with the greatest naval hero of them all, Admiral Lord Nelson."

Commander Haywood said: "We are extremely honoured to have been given the Freedom of the town of Monmouth. It is the mark of the strong relationship that exists between the town and the ship, and is one I hope that continues for a long time."

HMS Monmouth's Merlin helicopter then made a ceremonial appearance above the town. Cllr White added: "It is with great pleasure that HMS Monmouth can now exercise the right of its officers and ship's company to march through the streets of our town, bayonets fixed and colours flying.

"Here is a ship whose name is dear to us, safe guarding us all. This is a ship making its contribution to the finest of traditions of the Royal Navy."

The ceremony was followed by a service at St Mary's Priory Church, and a reception in the Shire Hall.