Navy’s survey Magpie sails in to visit college

THE Royal Navy’s new survey ship HMS Magpie is visiting South Devon for the first time.

HMS Magpie, formally commissioned in June and part of the Hydrographic Squadron based at Devonport, arrived in the Dart on Monday afternoon.

She today.

The ship replaced HMS Gleaner, which paid off earlier this year after 35 years’ service.

Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander William Alexander paid a courtesy call on Captain Jol Woodard, the Commanding Officer of Britannia Royal Naval College.

BRNC staff and Officer Cadets were invited to take a look around the ship.

Lt Cdr Alexander said: “This will be the first time that HMS Magpie has sailed under the white ensign following our commissioning in June.

“The ship’s primary role is to

is due in Salcombe maintain the integrity of coastal waters, ensuring safety of navigation and the resilience of key national infrastructure in UK ports.

With an enduring presence around the UK, she will also contribute to national security at sea.”

HMS Magpie is an 18-metre catamaran and provides an essential survey and underwater survey capability.

The current HMS Magpie is the eighth Royal Naval vessel to bear the name.

HMS Magpie arrives in Dartmouth

Andy Styles