H.M.S. DIOMEDE.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXIII, 19 March 1927, Page 8

H.M.S. DIOMEDE.

PUBLIC INSPECTION YESTERDAY

A largo number of South Canterbury residents visited" B.M.S. Diomede, the flagship of the New Zealand Navy, at No! 3 wharf yesterday. Looking smart and trim after having been one of the escort vessels for Pi.M.S. .Renown at Auckland, the Diomede’s appearance evoked much admiration from aJI those who were conducted, over the cruiser. The officers and crew spared no time or trouble in providing visitors with an enjoyable and educational afternoon.

The. Diomede, which arrived here nn Thursday morning from Chatham Islands, experienced rather -a rough trip, although sho shows no sign of tins. She is one of the latest type of right cruisers, of 4765 ttpis, and is capable of do-,'eloping a speed of 25 knots, while her engines can generate some ■10,006 h.p. Her complement comprises 425 officers, marines and bluejackets, several of whom are Now Zealanders. Her armament consists of six 6in guns, four triple torpedo tubes, besides several subsidiary guns for air fighting, etc. Commander Swnbe.y, since the H.M.S. Dunedin returned to the Homeland, has transferred his Commodore’s flag to the Diomede, while second in command is Commander J. H. Godfrey. The vessel will again be open for inspection from 1.30 to 4.30 to-day, and this will gitvc the public the last opportunity of paying a visit this trip. It is expected that the warship will said on Sunday evening for Bluff, where it is understood site will participate in the farewell to PI.M.S. Renown. Yesterday the Commodore paid his return visit to the Mayor (Mr Cl. J. Wallace) at tho Council Chambers. Although there have boon no official arrangements for the men (who prefer to have a free hand) everything possible is being done to make tliekstay here a pleasurable one. The Borough Council has placed the bathing and tennis facilities at Caro'itic Bay at their disposal, while free passage is allowed on any . f the Council’s buses. To-day football matches will be p’ayed against local -clubs. The Diomede is reputed to possess a, very fine band, and at every place this has played, it has met with the greatest appreciation from all lovers of music.

To-night at 7 o’clock the .Diomede’s Band will occupy the Caroline Bay rotunda, and will d wemra: a programme lasting till 9 o’clock, to what is expected to be a largo attendance.