Essex set to adopt Royal Navy warship for first time in 30 years

The ship is currently under construction in Scotland

A Royal Navy warship is set to be adopted by the county of Essex.

Essex County Council has agreed to the county's affiliation with HMS Venturer, a Type 31 frigate currently under construction in Scotland.

Named after a World War Two submarine, it will be crewed by 115 sailors with capacity for another 70 personnel, such as Royal Marines, raiding teams or drone operators.

It is the first Royal Navy ship to be associated with Essex in 30 years.

Previous ships include the frigate HMS Ashanti, which was affiliated with Southend until she ended active duties in the 1980s and the minesweeper HMS Orwell, which enjoyed ties with Harwich, a key naval base through both world wars.

The new warship is named after a submarine that made history as the first to sink another while both were submerged.

Its successor will perform duties around the globe for at least a quarter of a century when she enters service later this decade.

Once the ship is built, it will be brought over to Essex

HMS Venturer's name was chosen to represent technology and innovation, inspired by the county of Essex as well as the feats of its submarine predecessor.

Senior naval officer Chris Cozens said: "Essex's rich naval and maritime history, combined with its focus on technology and innovation makes it a fitting choice for our next-generation frigate."

Conservative county council chairman Jill Reeves said residents would be "reassured by and proud of those who serve" on the warship.

Council leader Kevin Bentley said: "I am proud to call HMS Venturer part of Essex as it adds a new chapter to our county's deep naval history.

"With the threats the UK is facing around the globe, it is more important than ever that we strengthen our ties with the Royal Navy and show our support for its brave service men and women."