Warship guarding sailing regatta

HMS Argyll's captain said the ship was playing a full part in the regatta Enlarge Image

A Royal Navy frigate has been moored in a Devon river as the centrepiece of one of the county's biggest sailing events.

Devonport-based HMS Argyll has been moored in the River Dart to act as guard ship for the Dartmouth Royal Regatta, which began on Thursday.

The 4,900-tonne Type 23 frigate will be providing an impressive backdrop for the regatta which is on until Saturday.

The ship returned to port in April after a six-month tour of duty in the Middle East.

HMS Argyll's commanding officer, Commander Peter Olive, said he and the ship's 180-strong crew were delighted to play a full part in the regatta.

He said: "Dartmouth has a strong naval tradition and our welcome here is always warm and friendly."

The first recorded Regatta in Dartmouth was held in 1822.

Advertisement

Dartmouth's harbourmaster talks about how he accommodates boats during the regatta