HMS Duncan, proudly known as “Dundee’s Own,” returned to Dundee Harbour earlier this month for a short resupply visit following a demanding month‑long deployment in the Arctic Circle. During this period, the Type 45 destroyer supported NATO aircraft and vessels and shadowed Russian incursions in the region — a reminder of the ship’s vital role in safeguarding European waters.

The visit also marked the first opportunity for the Nine Incorporated Trades of Dundee to welcome Commander James Mitchell, who assumed command of HMS Duncan earlier this year, succeeding Commander Dan Lee. Like all Royal Navy appointments, leadership evolves through promotion and tenure, but the ship’s bond with Dundee has remained constant since her commissioning in 2010.

Past Deacon Convener Alex Coupar, a long‑standing friend of the ship and still remarkably energetic at 93 years young, was invited aboard during the vessel’s stay in port. The Nine Trades — particularly the Bonnetmakers and Weavers — have enjoyed the company of HMS Duncan’s Commanders and Executive Officers at Craft dinners and suppers over many years, strengthening a unique civic‑naval relationship.

During the visit, Past Deacon Convener Coupar presented Commander Mitchell with a Nine Trades tie, a copy of Innes Duffus’s book on the Nine Trades and a Dundee cake generously provided by Goodfellow & Steven.

These gifts symbolise the enduring friendship between the ship, her crew, and the City of Dundee.

After coffee in the Captain’s cabin, Lieutenant Brandon De Santis, Officer of the Watch, escorted the Past Deacon Convener on a brief tour of the ship.