The Ark Royal leaving the Tyne on 28th June 1985, bow tug Cragsider
Notice what looks like the 'red ensign' flying aft!


Photo Norman Dunn Collection

Of course under Red Ensign prior to being commissioned .... perhaps this was a trials sailing?

Trials Date was 19th October 1984.

Hand over 1st July 1985.

In Service 1st November 1985.

As this was the 28th June it was probably her final sailing from the Tyne down to Portsmouth for her Hand-over, when the Red Duster would come down for the final time.