Sophie launches HMS Daring

HRH The Countess of Wessex helped HM Navy to launch their news line of D- Line fleet.  HMS Daring is the most expensive and technologically advance ship in the British fleet.

An 11,000-strong crowd of cheering people watched in Glasgow yesterday as the Countess of Wessex launched one of the most impressive military vessels ever to take to the sea. In honour of HMS Daring 's British pedigree, the national anthem sounded out across the Scottish shipyard as Sophie stepped up to do the honours. In keeping with the celebratory mood the elegant royal had chosen a suit in a vibrant shade of red. After the strains of the brass band died down, the 41-year-old declared: "I name this ship Daring and may God bless her and all who sail in her. "

As the Countess sent the £605-million ship hurtling down the slipway into the River Clyde onlookers let out a jubilant cry. Sophie also met Nathan Gregg, who'd come along to the ceremony as a birthday treat. 

Lt Cdr Woodruff said it was a distinct step forward for the Royal Navy. "We've certainly caught up with the electronic age," he said. "Nowadays the crew can write home on their laptops and it can be with their loved ones within hours rather than days, which is what I was used to when I first joined up." All ranks were asked what they would like on board Daring and 95% of their ideas have been incorporated. "When I've been hosting fleet visits up here, they always tell me that they want to serve on this ship," Lt Cdr Woodruff added.