Thursday 2 October 2014

"HMS" Onyx - Update


I popped in to the yard today and documented a few more images of 'Onyx' as the dismantling continues.

I've been disappointed to read incorrect comments on the entire scenario of the factual details of how the sad demise of her have been documented in various places on the web.

 I can discount this - "the yard had sold the rights to photograph the vessel" - as complete nonsense and with no evidence to support such a statement. So how many other statements have been made without foundation comes to my mind?

 I have a trustful and respectful relationship with the yard management that allows me to take images, and without their very kind approval we would not have secured images below decks before the dismantling began.

 For that I personally am very grateful, as I believe others should be.

 Unlike many who have gone to the yard without permission and any heed to safety issues, I have always ensured I have been respectful of the working environment and followed safety rules completely.

 As much as I would like to have seen 'Onyx' preserved it is clear that sufficient monies were never raised for what would have been a massive outlay. 

Also bear in mind that she lay at Barrow-in-Furness for about seven years but unfortunately the project there was unsuccessful. So past efforts were an indication of what could happen.

 In the absence of anything happening here I believe that it is good that the local workers at least have employment in the dismantling process, and that the job did not go to another country.

 Dismantling Continues


 High and Dry


 Beached View


 From the Beach Area


 From the Pier


Decay and Rust is Evident

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.co.uk - better resolution and options to licence.

Joint Warrior Exercise - Day One Arrivals


This was day one of the vessels arriving for the upcoming Joint Warrior exercise.

The tally was very low and as the minesweepers opted to drop anchor rather than head up to Faslane it was a bit frustrating.

To add to the woes, the Spanish ship arrived a very long time after the two Americans so there was a lot of hanging around.

Thankfully I had my good friends around to help pass the time as we chewed the fat.

One nice touch was the USS Vicksburg playing bagpipes as she passed Rhu Narrows - thanks guys - much appreciated.

I'll add more images to this Blog later so feel free to pop back in a day or two.

I've included the 'Shackleton' purely for interest as she is an unusual visitor here.

 USS Vicksburg 


 Deck Party

Decks Manned for Arrival

MOD Police Boat 'Jura' Escorting

USS Vicksburg Bound for Faslane

HMS Tyne

 USS Jason Dunham

ESPS Cristobal Colon


Shackleton Survey Vessel

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.co.uk - better resolution and options to licence.