HMS Bristol

it was in 1989 but for the life of me I cannot recall the reason why. Red Arrows were also displaying.

Thanks FG. What do you reckon the actual event was? Although I didn't witness this actual scene first-hand, I can't recall ever seeing any other vessel moored infront of the Hoe like this. Must of been an extraordinary occasion?
I note that the RNLI Arun Class Lifeboat (possibly the 'City of Plymouth') is showing itself. If it is the resident Lifeboat, then she was put into service in 1988, so dates are lining up nicely.
Nige

It was the Armada 400 celebration if my memory is correct.

Spot on Tarbatness, thats the event. The mooring is unusual and not permanent, however we did had Britannia in the same spot a few years before. Good to see a Fort Boat at Charlie buoy in the background.
Looking at this image it confirms (to me) that she was a beautifully proportioned ship, particularly after the addition of 1022. A staggeringly tall mainmast, over a third higher than a type 42.