The Princess of Wales held her first engagement with the crew of HMS Glasgow since being named the ship’s sponsor last year.
The Princess hosted an audience for a select number of crew members who have been posted to the HMS Glasgow at Windsor Castle to learn more about the ship’s construction progress and the roles the crew play aboard the ship.
Currently there are 15 sailors with the HMS Glasgow and this number is expected to bloom to 161 when the ship is completed.
“It was a huge honour to be invited to Windsor Castle and to meet Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales,” the HMS Glasgow’s Executive Warrant Officer, Darran Sullivan said in a statement on the Royal Navy’s website.
“The appointment of sponsor signals an enduring connection between the ship’s crew and Her Royal Highness. It is clear from meeting her that she has a real interest in HMS Glasgow and in the lives of those who will serve onboard.”
Catherine was presented with the HMS Glasgow’s ship crest and a challenge coin. Challenge coins are created for each vessel and presented to the members and personnel involved with each vessel.
“It was amazing meeting The Princess of Wales,” said Petty Officer Colin Chambers, a marine engineer for the HMS Glasgow. “The moment she walked into the room her enthusiasm and genuine interest in us really shone through and put us immediately at ease.”
Catherine was appointed as ship sponsor for the HMS Glasgow in June 2021 by Queen Elizabeth II. During a visit to the BAE Systems Shipyard in Govan, where construction continues on the HMS Glasgow, William revealed the news, saying: “Today, I’m very pleased to announce that my family’s connection with Type 26 will endure for many years to come.”
“Her Majesty The Queen has approved the appointment of my wife, Catherine, as Sponsor of the superb ship we see taking shape outside – HMS Glasgow. I know that Catherine will be delighted to join you here in Glasgow for the naming ceremony in due course.”
The HMS Glasgow is still under construction and is due to hit the seas in the next couple of years.
Commander Phil Burgess, the HMS Glasgow’s Senior Naval Officer, said the ship’s company is “looking forward to the time when we can invite The Princess of Wales onboard the ship and further develop the relationship between HMS Glasgow and her sponsors.”
