HMS Stirling Castle Marks her Official Affiliation with Surrey

28th July 2026 | Lieutenancy News

HMS Stirling Castle Marks her Official Affiliation with Surrey

HMS Stirling Castle Strengthens Ties with Surrey Through Historic Affiliation Agreement

HMS Stirling Castle has formally established its affiliation with the County of Surrey following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during a ceremony held on board the ship.

The agreement, signed by the Commanding Officer, Commander Philip Harper RN, and the Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Mr Michael More-Molyneux, CVO, marks the beginning of a lasting relationship between HMS Stirling Castle and the people and communities of Surrey. The affiliation is intended to foster mutual understanding, strengthen civic and military links, and promote engagement between the Royal Navy and the county.

The signing ceremony took place on board HMS Stirling Castle and was attended by a distinguished group of civic, military and community representatives from across Surrey. Guests were welcomed by the ship’s company before being given a guided tour of the vessel, providing an opportunity to learn more about the ship’s role, capabilities, and the daily lives of those who serve on board.

Speaking after the ceremony, Commander Philip Harper RN, Commanding Officer HMS Stirling Castle said:

“This affiliation with the County of Surrey is a privilege for my ship, allowing my sailors and I to form closer ties with the good people of Surrey and to represent the Royal Navy in the heart of the Home Counties.”

His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Surrey Mr Michael More-Molyneux, CVO, said:

“This is a momentous day for the County of Surrey and its relationship with the Royal Navy and HMS STIRLING CASTLE. Surrey has a proud history of supporting our Armed Forces. Our affiliation with HMS STIRLING CASTLE marks a new chapter in this ongoing relationship and the Surrey Lieutenancy looks forward to supporting the Ship, her Commanding Officer and Ship’s Company in future”.

SLt Ryan Parker a member of HMS Stirling Castles ship’s company said:

“I am extremely pleased to hear that the County of Surrey is to be affiliated with HMS Stirling Castle. Being a matelot born in Surrey it is great to be on HMS Stirling Castle which is at the cutting edge of the Royal Navy’s mine warfare capability and the plans for the future of the hybrid navy, I look forward to seeing the opportunities that Surrey and Stirling Castle may share in the future.”

The affiliation reflects the Royal Navy’s enduring commitment to building strong links with communities across the United Kingdom. Through future visits, community engagement, ceremonial occasions and educational initiatives, HMS Stirling Castle and the County of Surrey will work together to develop a partnership founded on shared values, mutual respect and service.

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding marks the start of a new chapter in the relationship between HMS Stirling Castle and the County of Surrey, establishing a lasting connection that will benefit both the ship’s company and the county.