THE PRESENT HMS Atherstone is the third to bear the name after the first 810-ton paddle minesweeper was launched in 1916 and named after the town's historic hunt.

The present HMS Atherstone was built by Vosper Thornycroft shipbuilders at Woolston, Southampton, and launched on March 1, 1986.

Although HMS Atherstone carries a gyro-stabilised gun and two machine guns, she relies on other vessels to protect her while she stalks enemy waters to clear a path for aircraft carriers and frigates.

Although her main role is to support and reassure surrounding nations by providing security in their seas, she also provides a platform from which the UK's mine warfare community can train and hone their warm water skills.

In 2005, HMS Atherstone was awarded the Freedom of the Borough of Atherstone and flag-waving townsfolk lined the streets and gave the minesweeper's crew, accompanied by The Royal Marines Band, a true North Warwickshire welcome.