Leander Class Collection

HMS Minerva at Stanley harbour
HMS Minerva (F45), a Leander-class Frigate of the Royal Navy, at Stanley harbour in 1984, at anchor for crew R&R in the Falkland Islands. Date: 1984

Katrina Duck (left) and Michelle Howley, two of the girls who are entering a beauty contest at the Madison nightclub, to mark the four day visit of Middlesbroughs adopted ship, HMS Jupiter

Jessica Alexander, an 18 year old student from Darlington, became the new Miss HMS Jupiter at a contest in Middlesbroughs Madison nightclub, and met officers and men on a tour of the ship

Five crew member of the HMS Jupiter, looking forward to shore leave in their home port as their ship steams up the Tees The Leander class frigate, which is Middlesbroughs adopted warship

The British cruiser HMS Ajax. September 1943

Middlesbroughs chairman, Colin Henderson, presents a set of shirts and a signed club pennant to Commander Martin Manning of HMS Jupiter

Albert RN rejoined the Navy, 70 years after he was paid off at the end of the First World War. Ex-stoker Albert Cowperthwaite, 88

School children visiting HMS Jupiter, berthed in the docks of her adopted home port, Middlesbrough. Control electrician mechanic

Sea cadets were given the chance to go aboard the HMS Jupiter, which is Middlesbroughs adopted warship. Teesport, Pictured, Sea Cadets PO Linda Metcalfe, left and LC Joanne Phillips

To mark HMS Jupiters final visit to Middlesbrough, Mayor Councillor Eddie Bolland gave the crew permission to march through the town with bayonets fixed. 24th April 1992

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The Leander class of ships has left an indelible mark on various communities and individuals throughout its storied history. From the majestic HMS Minerva at Stanley harbour to the inspiring story of Jessica Alexander, an 18-year-old student from Darlington who was captivated by the ship's grandeur, these vessels have captured hearts and minds. In September 1943, the British cruiser HMS Ajax showcased the might and power of the Leander class as it sailed through treacherous waters with unwavering determination. Meanwhile, Middlesbrough's chairman, Colin Henderson, presented a set of shirts to honor the brave men and women serving aboard these magnificent ships. One remarkable tale involves Albert RN, who rejoined the Navy after 70 years since being paid off at the end of World War I. His return symbolized not only his personal journey but also highlighted how deeply ingrained these vessels are in our collective memory. The it also served as educational platforms for school children visiting HMS Jupiter in her adopted home port. The awe-inspiring experience left a lasting impression on young minds eager to learn about naval history and maritime traditions. Beauty pageants even found their way onto these decks when Katrina Duck and Michelle Howley entered a competition while aboard one such vessel. Their presence added glamour amidst steel structures that exuded strength and resilience. Sea cadets were given invaluable opportunities to explore life aboard HMS Jupiter—an experience that shaped their understanding of discipline, teamwork, and dedication. These encounters fostered future generations' appreciation for naval service. To commemorate HMS Jupiter's final visit to Middlesbrough, Mayor Councillor Eddie Bolland organized special events honoring both crew members' sacrifices and local residents' enduring support. It was a poignant moment that celebrated unity between landlocked communities like Middlesbrough and those who braved stormy seas on board this iconic ship.