Commander Derek Rae, commanding officer of the Royal Navy hydrographic survey vessel HMS Enterprise was so impressed with the way in which A&P Falmouth staff supported his ship and ship’s company during her refit that he wrote a glowing letter of thanks to managing director Peter Child.

Commander Rae wrote: “The support your dockyard has given to my ship has as ever been exemplary, and significantly contributed to the operational effectiveness of her at sea and which will sustain us through a demanding period of operational sea training commencing in January.”

He said that his crew were always eager to visit Falmouth “knowing that both in and out of the yard they will always feel welcome, and that any workmanship carried out will be completed to the highest professional standards and for my peace of mind with safety as a key priority.”

During the ship’s refit the new Sealion hull coating (which feels rubbery and slimy to the touch even when dry) was applied to the hull. It reduces marine growth and the risk of mechanical damage, which ensures a smooth hull surface that reduces drag and creates lower carbon emissions as fuel savings are made.