Issued: 03 July 2002

Montrose celebrates with Nautical Namesake

LOCAL people are being invited to join the celebrations to mark the granting of the Freedom of Angus to the commanding officer and ship's company of HMS Montrose.

The ceremony in Montrose this Saturday (6 July) promises to be a colourful and spectacular event involving the full ship's company and the band of HM Royal Marines.

Captain Matthew Parr, the ship's officers and company of HMS Montrose will formally accept the Freedom of Angus from Angus Provost Mrs Frances Duncan.

Following the 11am ceremony at Academy Square, the ship's company will then exercise their right to march through the town.

Provost Mrs Duncan called on local people to come along on the day and show their support for the ship and its crew who have taken the name of Montrose across the globe.

Mrs Duncan added: "As a serving vessel in the Royal Navy, HMS Montrose can be called upon to serve anywhere in the world and in Angus we are extremely proud that wherever the ship goes it carries the name of Montrose.

"I would like to thank Captain Parr, the ship's officers and company of Her Majesty's Ship Montrose for being such superb ambassadors for Angus.

"Over the years, the people of the county, and in particular the citizens of Montrose, have enjoyed a happy and close association with the ship which proudly bears the name of this town.

"The awarding of the Freedom of Angus to the ship's company recognises and celebrates this enduring relationship and the contribution all those who have served on HMS Montrose have made to our community."