History Afloat: HMS Sutherland Reconnects with County Ties and Forges New Affiliations with ESRA
HMS Sutherland, a Type 23 Frigate in the Royal Navy, has a longstanding connection with the county of Sutherland. In 2004, the ship was granted the Freedom of the County, a significant moment that solidified the strong ties between the vessel and the region. Known among its crew as the "Fighting Clan", HMS Sutherland proudly represents its namesake county, embodying both operational strength and a symbolic connection to the Highlands.
Over the years, the ship has made multiple visits to Sutherland, often docking in Invergordon—the nearest port able to accommodate the ship. The crew has engaged in various community events, including receptions, sports matches, and community service projects. One notable event was a ceremonial sail-past of Dunrobin Castle, the ancestral home of Lord and Lady Strathnaver of Clan Sutherland, reaffirming the bond between the ship and the county.
This connection was renewed once again in October 2024 when the crew of HMS Sutherland embarked on a three-day visit to the county, aiming to rekindle old affiliations and create new ones.
A Lunch to Reforge Ties
On Tuesday, October 15th, a lunch was held at the Royal Dornoch Golf Club. This gathering was organised to reunite the officers and petty officers of HMS Sutherland with key figures from the county. The lunch was hosted by Gary Bethune, the club captain, alongside Colin Mackay and Neil Hampton, with esteemed guests including Lord-Lieutenant Major General Patrick Marriott, Vice-Lieutenant Kim Tulloch, and myself from ESRA (East Sutherland Rescue Association).
The highlight of the lunch was a speech delivered by Commander James Wallington-Smith RN, who detailed the ship’s history, its recent two-year refurbishment, and its current role. Commander Wallington-Smith expressed the crew’s desire to forge new ties and re-establish historic connections within the county. The event set the stage for future collaborations, with the possibility of crew visits as early as next year.
Clockwise from leftmost: Edward Farrer, Tony Ross, Neil Hampton, Christopher Evans, Gary Bethune, Roddy Hartridge, Kim Tulloch, James Wallington-Smith, Patrick Marriott, Colin Mackay, Daniel Lambert, Ewan Mackay, Peter Garwood and Russ Simpson.
James presenting HMS Sutherland crests to Patrick Marriot (left) and Gary Bethune (right)
During the lunch, James presented Patrick Marriott and Gary Bethune with special HMS Sutherland ship’s crests as a token of appreciation. This gesture symbolised the crew’s gratitude and their commitment to re-establishing strong ties with the county of Sutherland. The crest, a longstanding naval tradition, serves as a representation of the ship’s heritage and its connection to its namesake region.
A Memorable Evening at ESRA
On the following evening, Wednesday, October 16th, the crew of HMS Sutherland visited ESRA's lifeboat station. The event provided an opportunity for the crew to meet the local rescue team and see their operations in action. During the evening, I was presented with the King’s Coronation Medal (KCM) by Kim Tulloch, which added a special touch to the night. I had originally missed the medal presentation in September, where many members of the team received theirs, due to a bout of Covid. The event provided the perfect opportunity to rectify that and celebrate the moment with the HMS Sutherland crew present.
Left to right, back: Lt. Commander Roddy Hartridge (Operations Officer), Petty Officer Christopher Evans (Chief Bosun’s Mate), Lt. Commander Daniel Lambert (Logistics Officer), Commander James Wallington-Smith (Commanding Officer), Warrant Officer Peter Garwood (Warrant Officer Weapon Engineering), Lt. Edward Farrer (Navigating Officer), Warrant Officer Russel Simpson (Executive Warrant Officer)
Left to right, front: Vice Lord Lieutenant of Sutherland Kim Tulloch, Tony Ross (ESRA)
The crew were particularly impressed with the lifeboat Wildland and the Talus tractor, expressing enthusiasm about the cutting-edge equipment and how it supports ESRA’s sea rescue operations. Discussions during the evening included the exciting prospect of joint training exercises between the Royal Navy and ESRA, a partnership that would enhance maritime safety training for both organisations.
HMS Sutherland crew aboard rescue vessel Wildland - itching to take it out for a spin!
Left to right, front: Tony Ross, Rachel Graham, Christine Graham, Stuart Matheson, Gareth Dixon, Norman Ross, Neil Akeroyd
Left to right, front: Warrant Officer Peter Garwood (Warrant Officer Weapon Engineering), Lt. Commander Daniel Lambert (Logistics Officer), Warrant Officer Russel Simpson (Executive Warrant Officer), Commander James Wallington-Smith (Commanding Officer), Lt. Commander Roddy Hartridge (Operations Officer), Petty Officer Christopher Evans (Chief Bosun’s Mate), Lt. Edward Farrer (Navigating Officer),
HMS Sutherland
HMS Sutherland: A Type 23 Frigate
For those unfamiliar, HMS Sutherland is a Type 23 Frigate—part of the Duke-class frigates in the Royal Navy. Originally designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), HMS Sutherland has evolved into a multi-role vessel, capable of taking on a variety of missions from anti-piracy patrols to humanitarian aid.
The ship is equipped with advanced weaponry, including the Sea Ceptor Missile System for air defence and Harpoon anti-ship missiles for surface warfare. The ship also boasts Sting Ray torpedoes, designed for anti-submarine operations, and a Mark 8 Mod 1 naval gun used for surface engagements. One of the ship’s standout features is its ability to operate with a Merlin or Wildcat helicopter, which extends its operational range and effectiveness, particularly in anti-submarine warfare.
Recently, HMS Sutherland underwent significant upgrades, including the installation of the Artisan 3D radar system and the Type 2087 towed array sonar, both of which enhance the ship’s ability to detect and track submarines. With a speed exceeding 28 knots and a crew of around 185 personnel, HMS Sutherland is a formidable asset to the Royal Navy.
Looking Ahead
The visit to Sutherland was not only a chance for HMS Sutherland’s crew to reconnect with the county but also an opportunity to explore new collaborations. The conversations about joint exercises between HMS Sutherland and ESRA are particularly exciting, offering both organisations the chance to benefit from shared expertise and training in maritime rescue and safety.
As HMS Sutherland moves forward, the crew remain committed to maintaining strong ties with the county, continuing the proud tradition of representing the Highlands on the global stage. Both the ship and ESRA look forward to a future of partnership and collaboration, rooted in a shared commitment to maritime safety and community service.
