Great Yarmouth has a rich naval history stretching back many centuries. We are rightly proud of our maritime heritage, particularly the links with the Royal Navy, whether that is as a former naval base during the Napoleonic Wars, the monument to Lord Nelson or the numerous old buildings that still stand as a reminder to our naval past.

Those links continue today, with our affiliation to the naval destroyer HMS Dauntless, who visited the town in 2013. Unfortunately, since then no further visits have taken place. Whilst operational duties must always take priority, I am keen that we maintain this important link with Dauntless. I’ve written to Penny Mordaunt, the Secretary of State for Defence, seeking her assistance in re-establishing the relationship between the ship and the borough council.

I know the Royal Navy is held in extremely high regard in the area, being home to a large number of veterans, as well as serving personnel and their families. I hope that we can once again welcome the HMS Dauntless and her dedicated crew so that we can express our thanks for everything they do in defending our country and our national interests.