Medway Labour & Co-operative Councillors were honoured to celebrate the commissioning of the HMS Medway in Chatham yesterday.

It’s been over 30 years since a Royal Navy vessel has been commissioned on the Medway, the last being HMS Chatham in 1988.

Cllr Vince Maple, Councillor for Chatham Central said, ‘The relationship between the community of Medway and the Royal Navy goes back hundreds of years.  Despite the closure of the Naval Dockyard in the early 80s, the support and respect for service women and men is undiminished.

‘It was a real privilege to be at the commissioning of HMS Medway, I was particularly pleased to see local members of the Royal Naval Association present who as veterans have given great service to our country. I wish the HMS Medway team all the very best as they go “Forward Together”.’

Cllr Chrissy Stamp, Councillor for Watling said, ‘It was an honour and privilege to attend the Commissioning Service of HMS Medway. A truly historic moment for all of us.’

Cllr Dan McDonald, Councillor for Gillingham South said, ‘It was great to have the incredible privilege of attending today’s commissioning of HMS Medway. An amazing vessel in the very capable hands of an inspirational Captain alongside an amazing crew. I wish them all well.’

Cllr Hazel Browne, Councillor for Twydall said, ‘We had such an informative tour. Very proud to be the first person to sign the guest book.’

Cllr Alex Paterson, Councillor for Rochester West said, ‘As a proud Glaswegian who has made Rochester his home, I am personally delighted to see the Royal Navy renew its links with two great rivers, the Clyde and the Medway, through this new ship built at BAE Systems Maritime in Scotstoun.

‘We have a renowned shipbuilding tradition in this country and I hope that continues with support from the Government by awarding the £1.5billion Fleet Solid Support ships contract to UK yards – supporting British jobs – instead of building them on the cheap in Korea.

‘Good luck to the Commanding Officer and Ship’s Company of HMS Medway as she enters active service. I shall be following her progress with great interest.’

Cllr Pat Cooper, Councillor for Gillingham North said ‘I really enjoyed the tour of the ship and I felt very privileged to sign the visitor’s book. I hope lots of residents will be able to visit the HMS Medway before she leaves.’