The crew of a Royal Navy frigate with close ties to North Yorkshire have been enjoying a break from patrol in Iraq. HMS Richmond's Medical Officer, Lieutenant Commander Chris McLean, sends his second despatch.

IT has been another interesting week at sea, which began with the now-customary replenishment from the 54,000-tonne USNS Camden refuelling ship.

After that, HMS Richmond was allowed a passage south, away from the Iraqi coast for three days of rest.

Day one was spent tidying, repairing and improving parts of the ship which needed attention but, before lunch, the crew was also gathered for a photograph.

But then it was back to work, not least for Executive Warrant Officer Dave Sadler, who is in charge of personnel management.

This has involved accommodating more than 210 people on a ship designed to carry 180.

But, after a hard day's labour, Executive Officer Lieutenant Commander Richard Morris also invited the ship's company on to the flight deck to enjoy a drink.

However, shortly afterwards came the news that HMS Richmond would be back in action the following morning, taking up close escort duties for the carrier HMS Ark Royal.

Challenging for the bridge watch-keepers, the task demands they shadow the carrier by observing her manoeuvres, and reacting accordingly.

As both warships possess vastly different handling characteristics, the task requires considerable concentration.