MONMOUTH Assembly Member Nick Ramsay has said he was “delighted” to attend the re-dedication of HMS Monmouth, nicknamed The Black Duke, at Devonport, Plymouth.

The Lord Lieutenant and other dignitaries were also present to mark this important day for the ship being formally returned to the fleet after two years of refit and trials.

Mr Ramsay said: “Monmouth can be justly proud of the ship that bears its name, and our links with HMS Monmouth, The Black Duke, are strong and lasting.

“I was honoured to be asked to inspect the platoon during my visit. The crew certainly are a tribute to their families and their country and the ship looks superb following its refit which will stand it in good stead for the next tour of duty.

“It was also good to catch up with the staff of Kingstone Brewery, from Tintern who supply HMS Monmouth with real ale, including Black Duke Ale, which is specifically made for the ship.”

He added: “I wish HMS Monmouth all the best over the coming months, and I look forward to welcoming the ship to Cardiff in spring next year.”

The ship owes its nickname to James Scott, Duke of Monmouth, who was beheaded in 1685 after leading a failed rebellion against King Charles II.

In her 22 years of service so far HMS Monmouth has sailed more than 560,000 miles and has spent 54,000 hours at sea - the equivalent of six years of constant sailing across the world’s oceans.

Monmouth entered refit in 2014 and was upgraded with a host of combat system updates and marine engineering improvements.