Photo Gallery: Maritime Heritage Celebrated and Friendships Forged

Wirral’s historic links with Peru were celebrated and cemented this week, with a visit to the Mersey by the naval training ship, BAP Union, and a series of engagements in Birkenhead.

Photo of the crew of BAP Union at the memorial ro Grand Admiral Grau — The crew of BAP Union at the memorial to Grand Admiral Grau on the Birkenhead waterfront

Photo of the Mayor giving a welcome at the event on the Birkenhead waterfront — The Mayor welcomed the crew of BAP Union to Wirral during the ceremony on the Birkenhead waterfront.

Photo of the Mayor and guests observing the ceremony on the Birkenhead waterfront — L-R: Wirral Council's Acting Chief Executive Jason Gooding and Deputy Leader Cllr. Julie McManus, joined the Mayoress and Mayor and representatives of the Embassy of Peru at the ceremony in Birkenhead

The Mayor of Wirral, Councillor Brian Kenny, said:

It has been a great pleasure to welcome the crew and cadets of the BAP Union to Wirral and see their magnificent vessel on the river.

The past few days have been a heartfelt celebration of maritime heritage and international friendship, with events at Grand Admiral Miguel Grau Walk, Birkenhead Priory, and the Williamson Art Gallery.

I’m sure everyone in Wirral joins with me in wishing the ship, and all her crew, fair winds and calm seas as they continue their adventures around the globe.

Photo of the ceremony at the memorial to Grand Admiral Grau

Photo of a member of the crew of BAP Union saluting next to a bust of Grand Admiral Miguel Grau — A Midshipman from BAP Union salutes while the National Anthem of Peru was played

Wirral’s Heritage Champion, Councillor Jerry Williams, said:

The story of the Laird’s-built Huascar and it’s Master, Grand Admiral Grau, is incredibly important to the Peruvian people, which is clear from the efforts and energy that their Navy and Embassy have put into making the visit such a success.

It has been an unforgettable few days for all the right reasons, and I hope that spirit of friendship will endure for many more years to come.