Grimsby become affiliated with new Naval frigate HMS Sheffield

Grimsby town has cemented its link with the Armed Services, after becoming an affiliate of a new Royal Navy frigate.

HMS Sheffield, the fourth Type-26 frigate of its name, began production in late 2024 as part of a programme to replace the Royal Navy’s frigate force. These vessels are invaluable in anti-submarine warfare, quieter and stealthier than anything that has come before them.

Now, Grimsby has its own link to them after being asked to become a secondary affiliate of the new HMS Sheffield. Primarily linked to its namesake, the Navy asked Grimsby to become a part of the journey in February this year after the Mayor was approached by Commodore Tom Knowles VR, ADC, Naval Regional Commander for Northern England and the Isle of Man.

Secondary affiliations allow the ship’s company to build relationships with communities that have strong maritime and service heritage – criteria which Grimsby clearly fulfils.

This new affiliation follows the decommissioning of HMS Grimsby in 2024, a vessel with long-standing ties to our area. Commissioned in 1999, she spent time across the globe including Gibraltar and Bahrain.

The opportunity to affiliate with HMS Sheffield ensures that Grimsby’s historic connection with the Royal Navy continues into a new generation.

Accepting this affiliation creates opportunities for:

• Engagement with the ship’s company, including updates on HMS Sheffield’s build progress and milestones
• Participation, when possible, in civic events such as Remembrance and other commemorations
• Strengthened links with local schools, youth groups, veterans and community organisations
• Enhanced civic pride through association with a vessel that carries a distinguished Royal Navy legacy

“This is a great moment for our town. To be recognised alongside a ship like this with such an historic name makes me proud to be a Grimbarian,” said Mayor Janet Goodwin.

“Grimsby’s history is built on the maritime trade so I think it’s apt that we should be given the chance to be an affiliate. I can’t wait to see what other opportunities this link can bring to our town.”

Image caption: Warrant Officer Class 1 William Shepherd of the Royal Navy, left, with Mayor Janet Goodwin, right