HMS Sutherland Crew Joins ESRA for Lifeboat Training on the Firth
On Sunday 29th June 2025, ESRA welcomed four members of the Royal Navy crew from HMS Sutherland for a lifeboat training session on the Dornoch Firth, launching from Dornoch Beach aboard the Glen Cassley.
The visiting party included Sub-Lieutenant Matt, Orlando (a trainee chef just months into his naval service), Able Seaman Seth from the ship’s weapons department, and Petty Officer Kenny, Seth’s supervising officer. The group joined ESRA volunteers for a morning of on-water training and launch operations, with Neil Akeroyd (Baz) and Christine leading the session. Gareth, meanwhile, handled launch and recovery using the team’s Kubota.
HMS Sutherland has longstanding ties to the region, and ESRA is proud to be one of the charities supported by her crew. Sunday's visit was a great example of collaboration between civilian and military maritime teams, with plenty of knowledge exchanged and strong camaraderie throughout.
There’s hope that Sutherland will return to the Dornoch Firth in September, and ESRA would be delighted to train with the crew again when she does.
