HMS Nottingham returned to sea on Saturday, April 24, for the first time in nearly two years, following major repairs by Fleet Support Limited (FSL) in Portsmouth.

The Type 42 destroyer, which hit rocks off the coast of Australia in July 2002, has undergone an extensive package of hull repairs and new equipment fits in one of the biggest jobs undertaken by FSL since the company was established in 1998.

Following repairs, the programme of work has focused on setting to work the various new systems and alongside machinery trials.

The ship will now start a period of sea trials culminating in an anticipated return to the Fleet in early July.

FSL Project Manager Barry Stacey commented: “After a demanding programme which we have completed on time, the next stage is a busy period of sea trials. We are optimistic that these will be completed on schedule and the ship will be back with the Fleet in July