Crewe’s proud naval link sails on through campaign to return Cold War-era warship to UK
A campaign to bring HMS Ambuscade, one of the Royal Navy's most distinguished Cold War frigates, back to the UK as a floating museum is shining a spotlight on the ship's longstanding ties with Crewe.
Launched in 1973 on the River Clyde in Glasgow, HMS Ambuscade served with distinction during the Falklands War before being transferred to the Pakistan Navy in 1993, where she served for another three decades as PNS Tariq.
Now, following her decommissioning in 2023, plans are in motion to return her to Scotland as the UK's first Cold War-era museum warship.
But for many in Crewe, HMS Ambuscade is already home.
In February 1942, the town officially adopted a previous HMS Ambuscade following a successful Warship Week campaign during the Second World War.
That relationship was reaffirmed in 1993 when the crew of the modern HMS Ambuscade was granted the Freedom of the Borough of Crewe and Nantwich, just months before the ship was handed over to Pakistan.
The affiliation has lived on ever since, with former crew members choosing Crewe as the location for their annual reunions and a memorial plaque proudly displayed in the Crewe Municipal Buildings.
The current repatriation campaign, led by the Clyde Naval Heritage organisation, is working with local authorities in Glasgow and Inverclyde to secure a permanent berth for the ship on the River Clyde.
Once restored, the vessel will serve as a tribute not only to her own remarkable service record, but to all Type 21 frigates and their crews in both the Royal and Pakistan Navies.
Crewe-resident, Stewart Jones, a representative of Clyde Naval Heritage, said: "She's part of Crewe's history as much as she is part of the Navy's.
"We would love to see the people of Crewe once again rally behind HMS Ambuscade and support this effort to preserve her for future generations."
The ship is expected to become a unique attraction, potentially the world's first dual-nationality naval museum vessel, celebrating her life in both the UK and Pakistan.
There are also hopes that she could become an official Falklands War memorial ship once safely moored.
Residents who wish to support the campaign or volunteer can visit HERE or contact the team directly at [email protected] or [email protected].
READ MORE: New children's play area near Crewe opens with official launch at summer fete.
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