Sixth ship to bear the name.
Motto: Foy Pour Devoir ("Faith for Duty")
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2 Career 3 History 4 External Links |
In November 2000 Nottingham completed a major refit, which extended her operational life to 2012.
In 2001 Nottingham takes part in a NATO exercise near Scotland and in RN exercises near Oman in the Middle East.
On 21 March 2002 she leaves Portsmouth for a nine-month trip to several countries in Asia.
On 7 July 2002, Nottingham runs aground on the submerged but well-charted Wolf Rock near Lord Howe Island, 200 miles off the coast of Australia.
A 160ft hole is torn down the side of the vessel from bow to bridge, flooding five of her compartments and nearly causing her to sink.
The accident happened in poor weather after a wounded sailor was evacuated to the island, involving some late course changes.
Emergency repairs are made to be able to tow the ship away.
On 6 August, Nottingham sets out on her journey to the port of Newcastle, north of Sydney, Australia, towed stern-first because of the damage to her bow. In Newcastle, her Sea Dart missiles are removed and further repairs are carried out.
It is decided Nottingham will be repaired in the UK.
After arriving in Sydney on 15 October, the damaged ship is lifted onboard the heavy lifting vessel MV Swan and welded to her deck for transport.
On 28 October Nottingham leaves Sydney harbour on board the MV Swan for the journey back to the UK.
On 9 December, she arrives at Portsmouth Harbour for repairs.
Meanwhile, the destroyer HMS Glasgow is reactivated to cover for Nottingham while she is being repaired.
On 7 July 2003, the anniversary of the collision, Nottingham is refloated.
However, internal repairs continue.
General Characteristics
Career
History
(Earlier history anyone?)External Links