Photographs © Ian Collard 2008

HMS INTREPID arrived at Liverpool for recycling by Leavesley International and their partners Technical Demolition Services of Birkenhead, on September 17, 2008. The amphibious landing ship, a Falkland's War veteran looked to be in remarkably good condition considering that she paid off in 1991 and has been laid up at Portsmouth ever since. She was built by John Brown in 1967.

HMS INTREPID had been towed to the Mersey by Svitzer's ORMESBY CROSS and had been joined by THORNGARTH for the final run up the Mersey to Langton Lock. As the ship had no power and winches were not available at the dry dock ropes were attached to mechanical diggers which hauled the famous ship into her final berth at Canada Graving Dock.

Whilst it is sad to see a famous ship such as HMS INTREPID end her days here on the Mersey, at least she will be recycled here in an environmentally friendly way. The company aims to recycle 95% of the ship and complete the task in around five months.

If this project is completed successfully perhaps more ships may arrive on Merseyside for recycling? Far better that ships be recycled in an environmentally friendly manner here than on a far eastern beach where safe and environmentally friendly working practices are noticeable by their absence.