Minehunter returns home after three-year Gulf mission

A Royal Navy minehunter has returned home after completing a three-year mission in the Gulf.

HMS Blyth was welcomed back to HM Naval Base Clyde on Friday by a small flotilla of boats, including Royal Marine craft from 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group and a Clyde-based tug.

The Sandown-class minehunter covered 6300 nautical miles during its mission, spending 111 days at sea working alongside fellow Royal Navy ships and with US Navy allies.

Coronavirus restrictions, which came into effect in March, meant it was a particularly challenging time for the crew.

Crew 2 – from the First Mine Counter Measures Squadron (MCM1) – have been deployed to the vessel since January and were given the honour of sailing back home.

Lieutenant commander Pete Ellison, the commanding officer of HMS Blyth, praised their efforts.

He said: “Crew 2 have performed magnificently through a difficult period and we now look forward to a well-deserved period of rest and relaxation with our families.

“My thanks must go to my crew for their professionalism and commitment, but also to our families at home; they have faced an extended and very challenging period with their loved-ones away at sea and I am extremely grateful for their support.”