friends of the Royal Naval Museum

and HMS Victory Scuttlebutt

The magazine of the National Museum of the () and the Friends Issue 44 SPRING 2012 By subscription or £2 Scuttlebutt The magazine of the National Museum of the Royal Navy (Portsmouth) and the Friends

CONTENTS

Council of the Friends 4 Chairman’s Report (Peter Wykeham-Martin) 5 New Vice Chairman (John Scivier) 6 Treasurers Report (Roger Trise) 6 Prestigious BAFM Award for ‘Scuttlebutt’ (Roger Trise) 7 News from the National Museum of the Royal Navy (Graham Dobbin) 8 HMS Victory Change of Command (Rod Strathern) 9 Steam Pinnace 199 & Boat Show (Martin Marks) 10 Lottery Bid Success 13 Alfred John West Cinematographer 15 Peter Hollins MBE, 199 (Martin Marks) 17 Skills for the Future Project (Kiri Anderson) 18 New Museum Model Series – : HMS Vanguard (Mark Brady) 20 The National Museum of the Royal Navy: 100 Years of Naval Heritage 23 at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard (Campbell McMurray) The Royal Navy and (Naval Staff) 28 The Navy Campaign – “We need a Navy” (Bethany Torvell) 31 The Story of Tactical Nuclear Weapons in the Royal Navy (John Coker) 32 The Conference at the RNM – 19 May 2012 35 Thirtieth Anniversary of the Falklands Conflict (Ken Napier) 36 HMS Queen Elizabeth - Update on Progress (BAE Systems) 38 Lost CS Forester Manuscript Found (New CS Forester book) (John Roberts) 39 Museum Wreath Workshop 39 Geoff Hunt – Leading Marine Artist (Julian Thomas) 40 Book Reviews 40 AGM – 3 May 2012 (Executive Secretary) 43 “What’s on?” - Forthcoming Events at the Museum (Julian Thomas) 44 Visit by Naval Museum Friends to RN Museum – 11 June 2012 48 Friends of the Royal Marine Museum visit to Albert Hall & RM School of Music 48 Benefits of Friends Membership 52

Editor John Roberts 01329 843427 ([email protected]) Design & Print Studio 6 Wickham 01329 832933 Advertising SDB Marketing 01273 594455 http://www.royalnavalmuseum.org/support_friends.htm

Cover Picture: “The Heavyweight Punch” by Geoff Hunt, oil on canvas, 24 x 36 inches, 2005, see page 40

3 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT Scuttlebutt

In the last issue I wrote about the impending work on some £5,000 from their own efforts. Part of this agreement THE COUNCIL HMS Victory’s masts and rigging. Many of you will now is that the Pinnace will be used by the Museum as an aid to have seen she has now had her topmasts struck. This has fund raising and generally raising awareness of the National OF been an amazing piece of work. I know that in her heyday, Museum. This will include appearances at local events such THE FRIENDS OF THE ROYAL NAVAL MUSEUM striking topmasts was little more than a routine evolution, as the Boat Show, Yarmouth Old Gaffers and but in these days of rigorous “elfin safety”, it is certainly other trips in support of the Museum. This is a very welcome AND HMS VICTORY more than just “routine”. If you haven’t had the chance, try move and helps secure the medium term future of this historic and see the YouTube video taken by one of the riggers using vessel, and I would like to thank the Museum staff for their Patron: HRH The Prince of KG, KT, OM, GCB a helmet camera as he worked on the masts. Undoing the help in reaching this agreement. bolts holding the yards was one of those occasions when you And yet another piece of good news has been the President Lord Judd hope the rigger didn’t drop a nut from that height! However, success of the National Museum of the Royal Navy in Chairman Peter Wykeham-Martin Royal Navy whilst it is sad to see the ship looking so stripped of her glory, obtaining funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund towards Vice Chairman: John Scivier Royal Navy it has given the Museum an opportunity to run an exhibition the new 20th and 21st Century galleries. This helps secure Executive Secretary & Treasurer Mr Roger Trise called Bones of and Iron which brings the refit work to money that has already been pledged to get new funding. Honorary Secretary Dr Campbell McMurray OBE life and is well worth a visit. Another visible recent loss has The Museum has now raised £3 million and has £1.5 million been the , which although the MoD accepts is part to go, but is confident that they can make this target. The staff MEMBERS OF COUNCIL of the restoration package, seems to slip down the list of at Portsmouth has put in an incredible amount of hard work in Nicholas Bates, Royal Navy priorities. The loss of this very iconic symbol of HMS Victory securing this funding and on your behalf I congratulate them Mr David Baynes – Volunteers Co-ordinator does cause your Council some concern and has been the on their success. The new 20th and 21st Century galleries will Lieutenant Commander Mark Brady, Royal Navy subject of discussion with other interested parties. Council be a stunning and vital addition to the Museum at Portsmouth. Lieutenant Commander Clive Kidd, Royal Navy hopes that we can find a speedy resolution to this issue, and I am sure that it will prove to be a very popular attraction, Mr Christopher Knox restoration of her magnificent figurehead. bringing to life the part played by the Royal Navy in the 20th John Roberts MBE, Royal Navy The Friends have been very fortunate to recently receive Century and right up to the day. Mr Ivan Steele – Steam Pinnace 199 Project a substantial legacy which allows us to progress certain I make no excuse for focussing on the future for both Mr Paul Woodman projects. Council is not letting this money burn a hole in HMS Victory and the Steam Pinnace, and the new Gallery its pocket, but we are keen to use this money to good and for the National Museum of the Royal Navy at Portsmouth. EX OFFICIO MEMBERS OF COUNCIL lasting effect. Many of you will have been aware of the long All three projects are of direct interest to the Friends. A Commander John Bingeman, Royal Navy – Society of Nautical Research relationship that the Friends have had with the Steam Pinnace fundamental role of the Friends is to help the National Mr Graham Dobbin – Chief Operating NMRN 199. Under Peter Hollins’ leadership her restoration was Museum at Portsmouth keep our naval heritage alive and Mr Julian Thomas – National Museum of the Royal Navy Friends Liaison achieved and Ivan Steele has taken up the baton from Peter. flourishing at a time when nationwide museum resources are Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern, Royal Navy – Commanding Officer HMS Victory However, her boiler certification has expired and she needs under , and it is good to see the way that the National Councillor Rob Wood - Portsmouth City Council a substantial refit before she can steam again. In September Museum of the Royal Navy is moving ahead. Councillor Chris Carter – County Council at a meeting with the National Museum, agreement was reached that should assure that not only will the necessary Executive Secretary refit be carried out, but that she will be financially supported Peter Wykeham-Martin Roger Trise (023 9225 1589) [email protected] for at least another 10 years. Under this agreement, Council have pledged up to £30,000 from the recent legacy to the refit National Museum of the Royal Navy, HM Naval Base (PP66), Portsmouth PO1 3NH of the Pinnace – approximately a third of the cost. This pledge www.royalnavalmuseum.org allows the Pinnace to bid for support from National Lottery Heritage Fund and Prism for the remaining funding with a reasonable chance of success, as they have separately raised

4 5 Lieutenant Commander John Scivier Royal Navy New Vice Chairman

John Scivier the new Vice Chairman of the Friends joined the Royal Navy in 1977 and after nine years as a rating, passed out of BRNC Dartmouth in 1986. He became an Air Traffic Control TREASURER’S REPORT Officer and was promoted to Lt Cdr in 2001, when he took After an exciting year for the Museum, which last month over the Naval Aeronautical received the Lottery funding for the development of the Information Centre (NAIC) at 20th Century galleries, I am pleased to report that the RAF Northolt before going Friends have also received a substantial legacy from on to serve in HMS Ocean. the estate of Mrs Eve West. She had already donated He saw active service in the a group of historically important artefacts relating to Gulf region, in support of operations in Afghanistan and in her husband’s career, the late Commander John West 2003, as part of the Op Telic 1Task in Iraq. In 2006 he DSC MBE Royal Navy. We have been aware of the was appointed Commanding Officer of HMS Victory, a job forthcoming legacy for over two years, which is shared he described as the best in his career. John then returned with two other charities, but have not been able to make to aviation specialist appointments before being appointed any plans as the Estate had not been settled. At last all to HMS Collingwood. the formalities have been concluded and the money now John is involved in a number of charities and is a regular resides in our bank account. We are very grateful for the UK ‘4 Peaker’, has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, and trekked generous Legacy of Commander and Mrs Eve West which to Mount Everest Base Camp. He is a fellow of a number will enable us to support projects in the forthcoming of professional bodies, and was named as the Institute of development programme and of course HMS Victory. Leadership and Management Achiever of the year in both With encouragement from the Museum the Friends 2008 and 2009. A freeman of the City of London, John lives supported a bid by the Pinnace team to the Heritage in with his wife Kerry. Lottery for a grant to repair the Pinnace which now needs substantial restoration work to enable it to steam. Personal Message from the new Vice-Chairman The application was successful with a Lottery Grant of £50,000 and with the £30,000 committed by the Friends “The Friends are an important element of the life of both the plus a private donation the work can now be started. naval museum and Victory and provide essential support both Many of you may not be aware of the hard work Loyd Grossman, President of BAFM (on the left) presents the financial (grants) and personal (volunteers). The volunteer undertaken by Christopher Knox who is spreading the commemorative certificate to Roger Trise, Editor of Scuttlebutt. programme, under the excellent oversight of David Baynes word about the Museum and Friends by giving lectures provides assistance to the museum at a minimal outlay and to local groups. He is not only gaining new members it is so refreshing to see that there are people in our society but often receives donations for which the Friends are PRESTIGIOUS BAFM AWARD FOR SCUTTLEBUTT that care so much for our maritime heritage that they are very grateful. willing to give their own time up. I hope that I can impart my I would like to thank all the members who have enthusiasm, background knowledge and experience into the amended their Banker’s Orders to the new rates of £20 for a single member and £25 for joint membership and Friends and I will strive to ensure that, through the Friends, “I am particularly pleased for Roger Trise”, said Peter also thank all those who have responded to our reminder The Friends of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory the museum and Victory are served well. There are areas in Wykeham-Martin, Chairman of the Friends. “He has worked letters. It is your continued support that allows the Friends have won national recognition for their newsletter which I can see some changes may be required and I think on Scuttlebutt twice a year for well over ten years, in addition to thrive, and that one of the other important contributions Scuttlebutt. The twice-yearly newsletter of the Friends was if I have a message, it is that we are an organisation that to his duties as Secretary and Treasurer of an organisation is from the volunteers which although not appearing on judged to be runner up in the British Association of Friends supports history – however, we must be prepared to accept a of more than eight hundred members. This is a just reward the financial reports balance sheet nevertheless has a of Museums (BAFM) 2011 Friends’ newsletter competition. rapidly changing and more technological world and embrace a for his efforts and for those of Studio 6 in Wickham, who do considerable value. The judges called it “… a very interesting, and small percentage of the future along with a large percentage informative publication, well illustrated and with an attractive the design and printing.” of the past. We live in austere times and income generation Roger Trise layout…”. in the museums and charities sectors is certainly a huge and Loyd Grossman, President of BAFM, presented Roger continuous challenge – a challenge that I know, the Friends Trise, Executive Secretary of the Friends, and editor of will continue to embrace”. Scuttlebutt, with a commemorative certificate at a ceremony John Scivier in London.

6 7 In any institution there are one or two memorable years every generation and I am convinced that for us, last year was one CHANGE OF COMMAND OF HMS VICTORY of these very special years – and how fitting that, as this was The Museum expects to our centenary year, it became a year to remember, ending on “become free of charge as from a particular high note – more of which later. Where to begin? 1st April 2012 On 16 December last year HMS Victory welcomed her 100th Oscar Whild said; ‘It is without doubt the best job in The obvious place is the commemorations for our Centenary Commanding Officer, as Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern the Royal Navy that someone of my rank can undertake. The which included: “ assumed command from the outgoing Commanding Officer, ship certainly gets under your skin and although it is time for v Message of support from Her Majesty The Queen Lieutenant Commander Oscar Whild. me to move on, it will still be a wrench for me to go,’ After v Two visits by HRH The Princess Royal And then, if that wasn’t enough, the year ends with the The 46-year-old, who lives in Winchester, said: ‘Command handing over command he was busy preparing to leave his v HRH graciously unveiled our new Centenary stained fantastic news that we have secured a Round Two Pass from of HMS Victory is a huge privilege for any CO, but to be the 100th Portsmouth home for retirement in the south of with glass window (located in the Victory Gallery) which Heritage Lottery Fund for our Modern Navy Gallery Project. We adds a particular significance and I am conscious of following his wife Nicky. commemorates key moments/organisations in our history have been awarded 100% of what we asked for - £1.4M from in some very illustrious footsteps.’ He added: ‘HMS Victory is a – of which, the Society of Friends is, obviously, one of a project total of £4.5M and with money already committed priceless national and I certainly intend to ensure she those listed from other sources we are left with roughly £1.5M still to raise. is well looked after.’ v Opening of New, Found In the current climate, that will not be an easy task but we are Oscar Whild, who took command of Victory in September v Special centenary badge given to all who visited on our confident that we can achieve this and the Galleries will open 2008 was not only saying farewell, as commanding officer, but Centenary as planned in early 2014. Physical work won’t commence until he was also saying farewell to the Royal Navy as he was retiring Lieutenant Commander Oscar Whild (on the left) hands v Massive Birthday Party in Victory Arena culminating in the the final quarter of 2012 but there is plenty of preparatory work from the Service. The Falklands war veteran said the past three over command to Lieutenant Commander Rod Strathern, in cutting of Centenary Birthday Cake to be done between now and then which will keep everyone years had been the highlight of his thirty year naval career. the great cabin, on board HMS Victory. v Local School took over the running of the Museum for a day very occupied.

News from the National Museum of the Royal Navy (Portsmouth) “2011 - THAT WAS THE YEAR THAT WAS!” Chief Operating Officer’s Report

However, as exciting as all of this was, so much more has been And, looking forward to 2012, I can now also confirm achieved (in no particular order): that the Museum expects to become free of charge as from 1st April 2012 – no, this isn’t an early April fool’s Joke! It is v The shop was moved from its “tucked away” position into Government Policy that National Museums should be free of the main reception of the Museum and given a much needed charge and therefore we have been hoping to be able to do face lift. this for quite a while now but it is only in recent weeks that v The Museum’s Face to Face Project was short listed for the this was agreed. This means that the Museum will be free of Art Fund Prize Clore Award for Museum Learning. Although charge to all visitors – HMS Victory, , we weren’t lucky enough to win this it is extremely Museum and the Royal Navy Submarine prestigious to be short listed in this way Museum are not going free and will charge as usual. For v A Research Seminar Programme designed to raise the us, this is really exciting news and we should see our visitor academic standing of the Museum commenced in October. numbers climb as a consequence. There is undoubtedly a This year’s programme will culminate on 13th June 2012 marketing challenge as we will want to make the most of with the inaugural First Sea Lords Annual Lecture to be the fact that we are free without disadvantaging the other delivered by Professor Andrew Lambert attractions within Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and I know v The temporary exhibition “Bones of Oak and Iron” was that PHD are already considering the best way of getting this opened by The Second Sea Lord in the space previously message across to visitors. occupied by the shop. This is a fascinating exhibition So, 2011 was quite a year! As always, I need to thank designed to explain more about the restoration work HMS each and every one of you for being so supportive of all that Victory is currently undergoing we try to do. I’m not sure how we can top the success of v The Society of Friends was able to financially support the trip 2011 in 2012 – but we shall certainly be giving it our very by Richard Noyce to Washington in preparation for an best effort! exchange of items for our new Galleries – in turn we are loaning items from our Collection to the Americans. February 2012 Graham Dobbin, Chief Operating Officer v Our American Society of Friends were able to financially support the restoration of the HMS Trafalgar figurehead – Nelson now positively glistens when the sun catches this figurehead!

8 9 STEAM PINNACE 199 LONDON BOAT SHOW 199 Team Hits the Heights at the Show!

Almost certainly the most popular events at this year’s London Boat Show was the “Climb the Victory ” incorporated into the Classic Boat magazine stand. This idea grew out of a “back of a fag packet sketch” made by Boat Show staff member John Goode (left) about three years ago. The public were invited to climb up a rope ladder to a real HMS Victory yard mounted some 8 metres above. They then had to proceed out to the end of the yard and ring a bell. Successful climbers were given a prize of a discounted entry voucher to Portsmouth Historic Aligning the gun barrel Dockyard. A belaying system operated by professional climbers At this stage of late afternoon before opening day, the introduced an essential note of safety and our cox’n, Reg Hill, North Hall can honestly be described as a mess of wooden an experienced tall ship crewman was on hand to give practical pallets, plastic sheeting and discarded packing rubbish (above tips and encouragement. Also on the stand was a 24 pounder and right). Overnight the show cleaners perform a near miracle A mess of packing and rubbish , shot, powder box and related tools on loan from and produce the spick and span presentation that is all that Victory.199 volunteers were briefed up on Victory herself and most of us ever see. In the picture (right) Victory rigger Ian the cannon to engage with the visitors whilst they queued up Assembling the gun carriage Bell talks to John Goode and 199’s Ivan, next to a very smart to climb....and on the first Saturday there were big queues... canon display. so much so that around early afternoon we had to close for Control meant lining up the van in a ferry queue system Meanwhile Reg had been testing the mast climbing half an hour to give the team a break! and watching the lines either side of you continuously moving (below and below right). Someone was heard describing him somewhere whilst your line seemed to be permanently frozen. as like “a rat up a drain pipe”! I’m sure it was meant as a You are then directed to a one hour limit parking space near compliment. to an access door relevant to your stand. We laid out our H&S officers please note the helmet and climbing harness cannon kit but unlike an IKEA flat pack there are no step-by- in the picture below. The event was risk assessed “to death”! step instructions! There followed a democratic discussion on the assembly as, for example, there were two smaller and two larger wooden wheels plus four other pieces we never did use! Thanks to the gathering of “old salts”, as the Boat Show keep describing us to the media, the gun was assembled fairly easily (above and below). Rigger Ian Bell talking to John and Ivan

The Royal Navy helps load the van

Going back a couple of days, Ivan, Alistair Dilley, Mike Ryan and myself met up at HMS Victory to collect the 24 pounder, accessories and some boxes of publicity material for the Historic Dockyard and HMS Warrior. The cannon “kit” came as a barrel, about 14 wooden and 9 iron pieces. We were very grateful for a helping hand from the Royal Navy (above) as the kit is kept in Victory’s lowest . Luckily the barrel was a fibreglass replica and a two-man lift - otherwise we would have needed a large fork lift truck. Leaving Mike behind we proceeded by van up to the Excel Exhibition Centre which sits next door to the London City Airport and the Thames. Vehicle access is strictly controlled to try and Mounting the gun in place reduce chaos to organised mayhem as hundreds of exhibitors Reg climbs the mast try to load up their stands. Reg tests the rigging

10 11 Reg welcomes visitors to the mast climb (below). ...and finally He seems to have a way with the ladies? Of course that is Just so that Reg doesn’t think he’s the only one who climbs Lottery Bid Success!! a euphemism! the rigging, here is a picture of Peter Hollins MBE (below) a long way up the rigging The Heritage Lottery Fund has very kindly awarded 199 of RRS Discovery. He a £50,000 grant towards her refit. The committee have is the one waving, he tells me. been aware of this since before Christmas but have been The RRS Discovery constrained by some very tight disclosure rules laid down was the last traditional by the Fund. Together with £30,000 from the Friends of wooden three-masted the Royal Naval Museum and some other grants we now ship to be built in Britain. have a fund of around £86,000 that allows us to proceed. Designed for Antarctic research, she was launched in 1901. Her A vote of thanks should go to Ivan who has worked very first mission was the hard to put the bid together. However, as PRISM turned British National Antarctic own our bid we are still £12,000 short of our estimated Expedition, carrying Scott and Shackleton requirements. If you know a potential donor...... on their first, successful The opening Friday is a press and media day. Several The competition from The Historic Dockyard Chatham journey to the Antarctic, camera and radio teams dropped in. The picture (above) had an interesting display based around rope making known as the Discovery Expedition. She is now the centre shows rigger Ian Bell being interviewed by ITV. There was (below) and using professional staff. piece of visitor attraction in her home, Dundee. also a short piece by BBC South on the local news on Friday evening. Practical Boat Owner expressed interest in a post refit article on 199.

Wrens Small Ad 62x90mm v2:Hydratech Data Sheets 6/1/12 8:20 am Page 1

Discovery in Antarctica

More from the London Boat Show 2012 for Wrens and Royal Navy In the picture below we see our gallant cox’n, Reg Hill, female personnel ashore and afloat talking to HRH Princess Anne at the show. Mainly hidden behind HRH is crew member Mike Waddleton. It seems HRH enquired if Reg still went aloft to which he tells me he was able to respond positively. The stand was manned by: The final total on the number of visitors who went up the mast is believed to be over 1,500! It will be interesting Ivan keeping things clean Alistair Dilley, Andy Ryan, Clive Kidd, Ivan Steele, John to see how many make use of their discounted entry Turner, Martin Giles, Martin Marks, Mike Waddleton, Reg coupon for the Historic Dockyard that they were given as a Hill and Stephen Barnes. prize for their achievement as the source can be identified.

HMS Victory - Little Known Facts Did you know that her masts and spars are metal, not wood? They were taken from another vessel, Shah, in 1880 when the rigging was refitted. o

Did you know that one of her 32 pdr. guns, if fired E c h & s t o

unrestrained, would recoil over 50 feet? Even restrained P y l a i D

with two sets of block and tackle, it still moved 11 feet. l o o p

The 32 pdr. fired at point blank range, considered to be 400 v e r yards, would penetrate 4 feet of solid oak. Victory’s own L i sides were only around 2 feet thick at the . Most injuries on the receiving end came indirectly from wood 02392 725141 [email protected] • www.wrens.org.uk Visitors admiring the cannon splinters, not the shot.

12 13 Notes of a meeting on 11th January of the 199 Refit Organising Committee Alfred John West F.R.G.S. Briefly the following decisions were made: Cinematographer

1. Having considered the various alternatives it was Committee members: Ivan (funding), Alistair (shipwright), public film show of moving pictures in the on agreed that The Maritime Workshop (TMW) at St Frank/George (engineering) Martin M./Chris (publicity, 21st February 1896 in the hall. ‘Our Navy’ also exhibited at The Vincent College was the most economic venue to carry volunteers, community involvement) - aided by Peter H. Crystal Palace and the People’s Palace in the Mile End Road. out the refit. It was agreed that TMW progressed with who is acting as a consultant to the committee. Photographic Methods - Alfred J West invented his the construction of a trolley to support 199 and provide own shutter and stabilising devices and mounted his heavy stretcher bars to prevent any possible crushing 199 Work Progress Update: George has been working hard dry plate camera in the well of a sailing yawl. This was pressure on the when lifted. to disconnect pipe work so that the engine and boiler can be manoeuvred by his boatman under the lee of large racing lifted out. He has progressed well in the boiler room but the yachts to obtain the best shots of these heavily-canvassed 2. After consulting tables, a date for 199 to be moved engine room work has been slowed by heavily corroded bolts vessels at full speed. In 1898, during the early period of to TMW would be confirmed. Once 199 was alongside on the condenser pipes and the variety of different thread Alfred John West (1857–1937) was a British award- cinematographic technical development, his employee James at TMW the gun, funnel, casing, engine and boiler types found. He has removed a huge number of bolts holding winning marine photographer in the Gosport firm of G. Adams was granted a patent for improvements in and relating would be removed to lighten the boat prior to lifting down the casing over both spaces. West and Sons from 1881 and from 1897 at the age of 40, a to cameras and projecting apparatus for “kinematograph” her on to the trolley. George would attempt to free of pioneer cinematographer. He was then active in both roles pictures by the UK Patent Office. as much as he could to enable the removal of the Diary Note: The 199 Annual Dinner – Friday 2nd March at until 1913 when he sold his copyright in negative plates of casing, engine & boiler before 199 was moved from 7.30pm – Anglesey Hotel, . yachting studies to Beken of Cowes, and his stock of positive Photographing the - In 1897, Alfred J West obtained photographs of the ‘Turbinia’ steam yacht traveling mooring. All removed items were to be inspected for Yarmouth 2012 – As 199 will not be ready in time for this moving film to a distributor in who quickly went at full speed at the Royal . He was subsequently wear, tear or damage and then stored in TMW buildings. year’s Old Gaffers’ Festival, Ivan is investigating having a out of business and disappeared with the material without invited by Sir Charles Parsons to film and photograph the 199’ers hammock rig similar to that used at the London Boat completing the purchase. 3. 199 would then undergo a comprehensive inspection vessel in the Tyne and the pictures captured remain the Show. The Festival organiser’s response is awaited. West tells us in his autobiography ‘Sea Salts and and her restoration needs listed and reports prepared Celluloid’ (1936) that he ‘... kept the negatives’ but the bulk defining image of Turbinia at speed. Sir Charles Parsons is for discussion at the next meeting after the lift. of the film stock cannot now be traced. A few tantalising believed to the person standing in the in this picture. West writes in his (unpublished) 1936 autobiography 4. Frank will prepare a Work Schedule that specifies all clips remain as does a full descriptive catalogue in the as follows: the tasks and provides a flow diagram for the known British Library of all the moving film he created under the tasks ahead. ‘Our Navy’ brand. The stock of A J West’s negative plates is professionally conserved and currently held as a working archive for the production and sale of yachting prints by Beken of Cowes. Alfred West died in 1937 and is buried at Kingston Cemetery Portsmouth in Hampshire (E Plot, Row 19, Grave 14). Business - From c. 1880 Alfred John West worked alongside his brothers and sisters in his father George West’s photographic business ‘G West and Son’ at 97 High Street in Gosport, Hants and later at 72 and 84 Palmerston Road, . He became a nationally and internationally famous marine photographer, winning many national and international medals for his studies of yachts in full sail. His portrait of the ‘Mohawk’ racing at the Royal Southampton Yacht Club Regatta in 1884 was awarded the gold medal at the St. Louis Convention USA for which 9 other countries “It was at this same Review that a wonderful little vessel competed. named the “Turbinia” appeared, steaming through the Fleet In 1897 he converted to the newly developed ‘moving’ at 35 knots, a speed never before achieved on water. She was film and by 1898, his personal cinematographic business the first ship to be fitted with the turbine machinery invented ‘Our Navy’ based in an annex called ‘The Anchorage’ at his by her owner, the Hon. C. A. Parsons of Newcastle-on-Tyne, home ‘Rozel’, 7 Villiers Road, Southsea, had a full-time staff and a great sensation was caused by her steaming through of 50. In 1902 he formally registered the name ‘Our Navy’ as the lines at such a speed. Whilst she was at anchor in a Limited Company. Alfred West’s cinematographic activity , I went aboard and told the owner that from 1897 was in exhibiting films related to naval, and later I would like to get a snap of his craft going at full speed. military, empire and yachting subjects under the general title “No one has succeeded yet, although many have tried”, of ‘Our Navy’. The shows were presented in halls and later in replied Mr. Parsons. “I should like to have a shot at her”, purpose-built cinemas across the UK and the British Empire. I persisted. “Alright, so you shall!” he said with a smile, “I The London home of ‘Our Navy’ was the Regent Street will make another run through the fleet tomorrow, look out Polytechnic, which still houses one of London’s first purpose- for me between lines A. and B. at noon. That should give you built cinema halls. The Lumiere Brothers gave the first ever an opportunity. “I’ll be there, opposite the ”, I told 14 15 him. Punctually at l2 o’clock there appeared between the a programme of patriotic and nautical films. The Times of leaders of the lines a smother of foam - it was the “Turbinia”. London reported on 20 October: “...Mr Alfred West, well As she raced past the Flagship, I was waiting in my launch known for admirable kinematographic shows of a naval and took a flying shot of her. When I developed the plate I character, will give a novel one, illustrating the reception of was delighted to find that I had “got her”, and the owner the French Fleet”. The show also featured a sequence of a was so pleased with the that he invited me to take very old seaman who had served with Admiral Hyde-Parker a number of photographs and a cinematograph film of his (one of Nelson’s captains) accompanied by a Petty Officer craft on the Tyne.” from the Royal Naval Barracks and two Boys from the Royal Subsequently West’s ‘Our Navy’ made regular use Seamen and Marines’ Orphanage. The action took place on of this shot in its publicity and brochures and the moving the of HMS Victory, the elderly seaman showing pictures of the vessel were frequently shown as part of the a young boy the features of the ship – the ship’s wheel, the performances and referred to specifically in the promotional memorial plaque ‘Here Nelson Fell’ and culminating in the material associated with the shows as ‘ Turbinia ... showing laying of a wreath. This short sequence survives as one of the effects of foam etc ‘. the extant film clips of ‘Our Navy’. Cruise of HMS Crescent - In 1897, Alfred J West Many thanks to Clive Kidd for drawing this topic to my attention and embarked as ship’s photographer and cinematographer on an acknowledgement to Wikipedia for the information on West. the three month cruise of HMS Crescent, commanded by HRH the Duke of York. On its return to port he gave a Royal What a difference an “H” makes. Command Performance of the material to I was slightly alarmed by a headline on the front page of the at in the Isle of Wight. A second Royal Sunday Times: recently “Threat to Portsmouth” followed Command performance showing ‘animated photographs’ by:”BAE Systems is considering closing the historic Portsmouth was given to King Edward VII, his family and Estate staff on Dockyard.”. Initially I read this with concern, and incorrectly, as November 9, 1901 at Sandringham. The film shown at that “...Portsmouth Historic Dockyard”. For those who haven’t seen presentation was taken by Alfred West’s assistant, Chief this news item, it is now reported as speculation surrounding a Petty Officer McGregor, who had been taken on board as way ahead study for the BAE business centres as future MOD(N) official photographer for ‘Our Navy’ for the world cruise of orders fall off. Or, a personal view without any evidence, just the converted liner ‘Ophir’. The cruise was undertaken by the political arm twisting perhaps to ensure they get the new Type then Prince of Wales (later ) and his family. 26 build contract! It has certainly wound up the Trade Trafalgar Centenary 1905 - At the culminating Albert Unions and local MPs. Martin Marks Hall celebrations on 21 October 1905, Alfred West showed PETER HOLLINS MBE PRESIDENT OF 199 GROUP

The Friends of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory are Peter was a founding member of the Gosport-based delighted with the news that Peter Hollins, the 199 Group Maritime Workshop charity, which gave the Pinnace a President has been made an MBE in the Queen’s New Year complete refit in 1998. The vessel emerged to take part in Honours list, and congratulate him most sincerely on his the Festival of the Sea in 2001. The Prince of Wales and the thoroughly well-deserved honour. Duke of Edinburgh have both used the ship and it has been Peter Hollins, 90, of Alverstoke, was awarded the MBE a regular attraction at the Old Gaffers Festival in Yarmouth. for his voluntary service to the Royal Naval Museum and Born in , Mr Hollins family moved to Essex HMS Victory. Mr Hollins, a former fourth radio officer on the and enjoyed holidays in Portsmouth. He went to sea for six famous ship Queen Mary, was instrumental in bringing the years during the Second World War before becoming an Steam Pinnace to the Royal Naval Museum after discovering architect. the last remaining vessel in the River Thames. Martin Marks Peter Hollins MBE and his son Tim when they carried Commodore Wallace, Commodore Portsmouth Flotilla, and two colleagues on a tour of inspection of Portsmouth based ships using the 1897 steam no.438 in lieu of the steam pinnace. (UK MOD Crown copyright)

16 17 SKILLS FOR THE FUTURE PROJECT

After recently graduating from the University of York However, the ultimate focus of my role is to engage (reading History of Art) I’m now halfway through a with local communities and encourage Black and Asian traineeship at the National Museum of the Royal Navy. Minority Ethnic (BAME) audiences to visit NMRN. This My position is part of a 1 year Skills for the Future project, addresses a critical issue affecting the impact of our “Strengthening Our Common Lives” (SOCL), coordinated museum in terms of accessibility – we need more people by London-based arts charity Cultural-Cooperation, and coming in from diverse audiences. This is not exclusively funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. SOCL’s unique BAME groups, but also includes those of different ages range of 10 project partners includes Museums, and from different areas within the local Portsmouth Galleries & Archives, community. Southbank Centre, King’s I’ve been researching artefacts hidden in our College London and collection stores to identify the multicultural contacts Historic Royal Palaces. The the Royal Navy have made around the globe. Eventually project aims to increase these will be presented to various community groups and workforce diversity, their subsequent presenting opportunities interpretations, The Natraja plate Royal Indian Naval Service (WRINS) from 1944-46 as Chief to individuals in sections teamed with This detail depicts the Hindu deity Natraja (the Lord of Officer and Deputy Director. The Indian woman on the far of the population that are information about the Dance), a pictorial symbol of creation, destruction, right is Second Officer Kalyani Sen. currently under-represented the objects’ preservation, salvation, and illusion. It was made using an in the heritage sector, and socio-cultural important process of classical south Indian metalwork that’s to facilitate pursuing a significance, will nearing extinction. This plate was awarded to future career in heritage. potentially run as Frank Ballance for his service in the (1950-53). I’ll finish in June with a ‘threads’ within The value of these artefacts is multifaceted; they Level 3 Diploma in Cultural the new exhibition stand as international trophies whilst the circumstances Heritage awarded by the Victoria and Albert Museum. The space.To offer a surrounding their acquisitions open doors to ethical units I’m studying vary greatly, from collections research, glimpse of the kind of objects I mean, here are some I’ve debates. This is not something that should be censored, to learning and interpretation, cataloguing, ethics and been investigating over the past few months! but instead must be confronted and questioned. And, after professional judgement, marketing…and that’s to name Arabic Manual of Astronomy and Divination this is done, we can reach fully informed interpretations. a few! Translation: “God knows the month of the Aquarius brings To showcase some of these pieces I held a small hot wind with humidity, settled when the moon goes object handling session during Black History Month down...anyone who travels at the end of the month of the in October. Here the public were able to drop-in and Aquarius will always come back with good things...” investigate some of the objects for themselves. In This Arabic Manual of Astronomy and Divination was conjunction with this research I’ve met with organisations As you can see, each object is unique with the taken from M’wele (modern day Kenya, east Africa) in such as African Women’s Forum, the African Union and 1895. It’s equipped with diagrams, charts and text which potential to convey some very powerful and thought PRENO (Portsmouth Race Equality Network Organisation) provoking messages. The ways in which these objects prophesise future events. In 1897 the Kingdom of Benin which will hopefully lead to joint activities such as (modern day , west Africa) was occupied by the will be used remains undecided. I’m currently working multicultural days and food demonstrations. These will on a mini project with our new artist in residency Helen Naval Brigade. Thousands of objects in brass and ivory celebrate the Navy’s contact with different societies; their were shipped to Britain, to be sold by Queen Victoria’s Snell. Helen is currently one of nine artists exhibiting in work has always been an international affair, so it’s vital the Nelson Gallery for New, Found Treasures (July 5th – government. This ivory tusk was taken from the Oba’s that we recognise and communicate this accurately in the (Divine King’s) palace and (in its original context) played December 30th). I’m providing her with some information new exhibitions of Storehouse 10. for her next laser-cut artwork that’s inspired by the a vital role in the spiritual connections between past and This process is very much on going, as we are present for all the Nigerian people of the Edo tribe. Above cultural contacts of the British Navy – it’s looking to be a constantly making new discoveries and acquiring new magnificent piece. a detail of the Benin Tusk showing the Oba wearing the artefacts. The next image shows a recent acquisition linking beads of kinship across his chest. Let’s hope the next half of this traineeship is as good as from earlier this year, it’s a page taken from Margaret the first! Cooper’s photo album. Margaret served in the Women’s Kiri Anderson

18 19 “It Is the Very Model of a Modern Naval ”

The RN Museum’s model of HMS VANGUARD

It was appropriate, given the good news The museum model of HMS Vanguard of the museum’s plans to improve its early-1950s that fast remained of value against But we have not completely lost sight of HMS Vanguard. coverage of the modern history of the Soviet Sverdlov-class implicitly acknowledged that Not least because ‘our’ museum has its own model of Vanguard was at least twice as large as was ‘necessary’ the ship (made for the builders, John Brown & Co, and Royal Navy, that the cover of the April by any rational criteria, and in the end the argument representing Vanguard as completed). Currently not seen 2011 ‘Scuttlebutt’ should have featured that Vanguard was inordinately demanding of resources by most visitors, I’d expect the model to be displayed in the and skilled manpower was decisive. Nonetheless when new 20th Century Galleries given that a major theme will be a 20th Century RN ship. And how fitting completed she represented the culmination of some 40 years ‘Changing Technology’ – there are compelling reasons for that the subject was HMS Vanguard of continuity in capital-ship development, and was also a citing Vanguard as an example of the RN’s willingness and benchmark for the RN’s post-war re-equipment. Hence my ability during the 20th Century not merely to keep up with – not just one of the most handsome argument that more should have been done in the early-1960s technological advances but to take the lead. The ‘NMRN British of modern times, but to record the achievement that Vanguard represented before Community’ – which does of course include ourselves as she was reduced to razor-blades and reactor-shielding. ‘Friends’ – could, however, go a great deal further than arguably the finest ‘battleship’ ever built just displaying that model itself within the new galleries. for any navy. There are several possibilities under the generic heading ‘Interpretation’ – from Oral History recordings made by I never saw Vanguard herself, but well remember visiting various people with personal memories of the ship through the Science Museum while at primary school and being to the presentation of the findings of modern-day researchers impressed by the large and meticulously-detailed models of among the various archives (e.g Kew, University of Glasgow, Vanguard and of the ‘Super-’ HMS Monarch. Explosion! Museum, HMS COLLINGWOOD Museum) in These models represented the first and last examples of their which can be found details of the equipment and systems type to fly the White , and while their main-armament fitted in Vanguard. turrets were similar it was clear even to a youngster that most Displaying our model of Vanguard in the new public other details were significantly different. During subsequent galleries will not be without problems – its sheer size being one consideration when space will be at a premium, and visits I always re-acquainted myself with these fascinating Close-up photo of the model of HMS VANGUARD, exhibits – but after only a few years, as my boyhood interest another is that a good deal of ‘interpretation’ will be required annotated to identify aerials associated with Air to get the full benefit from display of the model. But it’s in the RN developed, it struck me that the Science Museum Warning and Gunnery Fire Control. HMS Vanguard’s Command Spaces (Drawings from Raven had made curiously little effort to use those two models, & Roberts ‘British Battleships of World War Two’, with heartening to see that the NMRN aspires to be the world’s displayed in the same gallery, to illustrate the considerable Organisation (AIO) facilities, and her anti-aircraft armament. additional information from ‘The Boy’s Book of the Navy’, most respected naval museum – imaginative presentation of changes in naval technology over the period 1914-45. The latter was especially noteworthy, and it can be argued 1953 Edition) our model of HMS Vanguard, and other large ship-models, I consider the scrapping of Vanguard in 1960-61 to have that when Vanguard was completed her ‘main armament’ can be one way by which we fulfil that ambition. been a tragedy. Of course she couldn’t have been kept intact was almost a secondary consideration – her principal Mark Brady ad infinitum – the preservation of large steel warships is an fighting value was as an anti-aircraft escort for high-value expensive business, and couldn’t have been justified in her targets. (It made good sense, therefore, to propose in the Note: case – but she was nonetheless disposed of long before late-1940s that she might be altered to carry the proposed My understanding from papers in the National Archives file ADM 1/26089 ‘Review of the future of HMS Vanguard’ (1954- the end of her ‘useful’ life, largely for political reasons, and surface-to-air – but the anticipated cost of the work 55) is that in 1953 the Admiralty had offered to put her in Reserve as a cost-saving measure but had been directed by the then scrapped with undue haste (See Note). Had she been was prohibitive.) Prime Minister (Churchill) that her retention in active service was a matter of national prestige. Even so her 1954-55 ‘refit’ retained another ten years or so I’d have had my own chance In addition to the innovations mentioned above, included no significant improvements – not even fallout-transit capability – and soon after Churchill’s resignation (April 1955) to look around Britain’s last battleship, but leaving personal Vanguard’s seaworthiness, habitability, speed, , the Admiralty had the earlier decision reversed (on the grounds that her large complement of Ordnance and Radio Electrical considerations aside I’d argue that more should have been ‘damage-resistance’ and other desiderata were significantly personnel were required for other ships. Thereafter she was a commodious and well-appointed HQ, Accommodation & done ‘for the record’ before she was broken-up. She should better than those of the King George V class – as was to be at Portsmouth – and as such survived the 1957 Defence Review – but eventually the Royal Navy’s retention at least have been extensively photographed – interior and expected, given the removal of peacetime design-constraints of a single battleship became an embarrassment when the Admiralty was striving against considerable political (and RAF!) exterior – ‘for the record’ before being broken-up, but ideally and the opportunity to incorporate wartime lessons during opposition to justify the continued procurement of carriers, guided- ships, modern , ASW etc. In certain important items of equipment should have been her building. In the decade after her completion Vanguard 1959 the Admiralty decided to put her on the Disposal List, and replace her at Portsmouth by two Extended Reserve cruisers. retained for display. For when completed just after the end was certainly not ‘obsolescent’ – let alone obsolete – but But the condition of these two ships was so markedly inferior to that of Vanguard that it was deemed imperative to remove of the Second World War she was not just a modern ship, but it became increasingly clear that she was redundant. The the latter from Portsmouth as soon as possible (see papers in ADM 1/27480 ‘Disposal of HMS Vanguard’ ), and the only in important respects strikingly innovative. Notable in that RN had no reason to keep battleships in active service in option thereafter was scrapping. Sic Transit Gloria Mundi. respect were her radar suite, ‘flagship’ and Action Information peacetime, and doing so was expensive. The argument in the

20 21 THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE ROYAL NAVY: A CENTURY OF BRITISH NAVAL HERITAGE

The actual origins of this splendid undertaking, established for very much the same reasons in principle, are to be found at the end of the 19th century, when the first faltering steps were taken to create a Naval and Dockyard Museum in Portsmouth. That this ambition was crowned with success is owed principally to the strenuous efforts of one man, Mr Mark Edwin Pescott Frost, secretary to successive port in Portsmouth Dockyard, from 1899 to 1921. The genesis of Frost’s successful endeavours in this line is to be found in an undated memo which survives: he wrote, “Soon after taking up the appointment of Secretary to the Admiral Superintendent in November 1899, I formed the resolution to Mr Mark Edwin Pescott Frost establish a museum in the Dockyard as soon as practicable”. The first step in this direction, Frost goes on to say, came when The National Museum of the Royal Navy formally came the , “at my suggestion ordered all departments into existence only in September, 2009, bringing into a to send in a list of articles of interest and to earmark them for single, unified administration the four, formerly autonomous the purpose”. When accommodation subsequently became British naval collections: the Royal Naval Museum; the RN available in the old Dockyard ropery building, in 1905, Frost Submarine Museum; the Fleet Air Arm Museum, and the wrote, “…the admiral offered it to me for the Museum and , in close partnership with HMS I readily accepted”. Victory, Nelson’s flagship at Trafalgar. Its launch, celebrated Described as “an aesthete with unbounded enthusiasm”, with much fanfare and the firing of a full broadside from HMS Portsmouth-born Mark Frost was undoubtedly an impressive Victory, represents a determined effort by the Royal Navy to and determined individual, a highly capable, well-regarded engage a broad audience and become the essential national administrator by all accounts, this scholarly and reflective voice for naval heritage in . The almost brand senior civil servant also seems to have possessed enviable new undertaking is embarking shortly on an exciting, multi- powers of advocacy and persuasion. And a person of his million pound development programme, to create a series of unabashed antiquarian instincts could hardly fail to see new exhibitions devoted to the history of the Naval Service that in his time the demise of Nelson’s old sailing navy was and its people in the 20th and 21st centuries, driven by the well advanced. Indeed, as if to make the point, at almost principle that the Navy, and the people of this country, have exactly this moment the first all big-gun, steam-turbine driven much to gain from a proper understanding of the courage, battleship, HMS Dreadnought, was building in Portsmouth, professionalism, resource and achievements of those who Dockyard, virtually within sight of his office window, came before us.

The Victory Museum HMS Dreadnought

23 enjoyed a decent popularity. Annual admissions, for which letters to numbers of influential people whom he had known, there was a small charge, hovered steadily around 17,000 or expressing his sorrow at the fate which had befallen his great so paying visitors, and the proceeds together with the profits enterprise, pleading with a great sense of wounded pride for from the sale of an excellent catalogue prepared by Frost a reprieve. His pleas alas fell on deaf and although the for the guidance of visitors, were donated to local charities. replies were all decently sympathetic to his predicament, and The Museum thrived modestly, becoming recognised as a all acknowledged his sterling contribution to naval heritage significant addition to the nation’s maritime heritage: so much in Portsmouth, the matter was effectively closed: it was just so indeed that The Times newspaper in 1913 opined that “a the way things were, was the tone, and in truth there was no national naval museum should be developed around it”. The malice in this despotism. But Frost, clearly much saddened by justification was real enough, but it was to be another 20 the turn of affairs, continued to feel let down and bitter, but years before the National at resigned and at the opening of the new Victory Museum, in HMS Asia figurehead was established, to fill this need. More pressing matters July 1938, the chairman of the Society of Nautical Research confronted the nation in the meantime, and the Museum delivered a generous tribute to the man and his achievement. emphasising to him we can surmise the imperative need to was closed to the public on the outbreak of war. The new Victory Museum, opened in 1938 closed almost do everything possible to preserve at least something of the Re-opened in 1919, it took time for numbers to recover immediately in 1939 on the outbreak of war, and did not re- material culture of the age of the sailing . and they seem never to have reached their pre-war totals, open until the end of hostilities. Throughout the early 1950s Nelson Over the next five years or so, mainly in his own time while Frost, by now approaching retirement, was constrained and thereafter, under the auspices of the SNR, which was but with occasional Dockyard assistance Frost, enjoying to write a letter to the Secretary of the Admiralty Board, in operation of two separate museums within the working able to fund a modest expansion of the premises, meet the the title Honorary Curator, brought together, organised and which he expressed the fervent hope that “….steps may be Dockyard, it was agreed that this edifice, to be operated salary costs of a full-time curator, greatly improve the quality classified a huge volume of materials in preparation for taken to ensure the Museum may be kept going as an active under the aegis of the Society of Nautical Research, should of the accommodation and the environmental conditions opening the new Museum. Over 40 figureheads, numerous proposition. After all my time and research work expended supersede the original Frost foundation. Only such items under which the collections were stored and, critically, half-models, ship relics and other artefacts from the many upon it, it would be a great regret to me if it were allowed to from the Dockyard Museum as were appropriate and relevant expand them through such accessions as the Suckling-Ward small scale wars and minor campaigns that the Royal Navy languish and suffer from neglect”. In reply, the Secretary to to its role as essentially the interpretation centre for HMS collection of Nelson relics. These and other initiatives did had fought in the 19th century, as well as weapons, every the Board gave no such assurances, merely stating that “Their Victory would be transferred to the new premises, however. much not only to extend the popular appeal of HMS Victory conceivable example of carving and gilded gingerbread, Lordships desire me to take this opportunity of conveying to whose visitor numbers by the mid-1960s amounted to some trophies, pictures, prints, maps, charts, manuscripts, dockyard Mr Frost an expression of their appreciation of the services 275,000 per annum, but also helped to establish the Victory plans, items of ships’ furniture even, it is said, a fragment he has offered as Honorary Curator of the Museum”. In fact, Museum as a key Nelson collection, second in its field only of HMS Victory’s foretop sail from Trafalgar, were acquired, the Museum continued to operate through the 1920s, but to the National Maritime Museum and in time enabled the researched, their provenance established, labels prepared seems to have lost momentum. With neither professional Museum to develop its reputation as a major international and displays arranged. During this time, the embryo Museum staff nor any expert technical assistance in curatorship or centre for the study of the great admiral and his career. was honoured by a royal visit when King George V and Queen conservation, no real capital investment, an apparently In more recent times, through high class scholarship, Mary paid a call, gave their enthusiastic approval and signed declining level of commitment from his successors and, publications and the opening of new modern galleries the visitors’ book to start what was to be a continuing interest surely missing the untiring levels of energy and commitment devoted to this subject and related themes, these claims have by the King and his consort, who themselves contributed of Frost himself, the Dockyard Museum began to languish been greatly reinforced and the NMRN in Portsmouth is now items from time to time and never missed the opportunity to and the stewardship of the collections in general to fail. recognised to be a world authority in this field. visit when in Portsmouth on royal business. But, the decision by the Admiralty, in 1922, to place HMS But there is one final, touching strand to this tale: the Portsmouth’s Naval and Dockyard Museum was officially Victory in No 2 Dock and to preserve her in perpetuity was to history of the NMRN, from its beginnings as a pioneering opened in June 1911, so beginning in effect the interpretation change for ever the order of things in Portsmouth Dockyard, centre of British naval heritage to the grand, modern of modern naval heritage in this city. The event received and in effect signalled the beginning of the end for Frost’s enterprise of today, also represents a small, rather obscure enthusiastic coverage in the local press and in national enterprising initiative. but fascinating expression of what we call our “special newspapers and over the next few years the new foundation Over the many years the ship had been afloat in the relationship” with the . This, because, within harbour, a sizeable collection of Nelson memorabilia and the unfolding story of this institution is to be found what other commemorative items had been collected and displayed can only be described as an affecting love affair between on board, including the state barge built for Charles II which Britain’s most famous sea warrior, Admiral Lord Nelson, and had carried Nelson’s coffin upriver from Greenwich to St HMS Victory a 20th century American citizen born into the gilded life just Pauls for his funeral in January 1806, and the admiral’s It was not in fact until 1938 that the new Victory after the outbreak of the First World War, Mrs Lily Lambert original dining furniture from the Great Cabin. On the Museum was completed and in the event a substantial McCarthy. The young Lily’s heart was opened to the life and decision of the Admiralty, in consultation with the Society number of Dockyard Museum artefacts did indeed find their career of the great man through the influence of her father, for Nautical Research which had been behind the initial drive way into the new museum, many of which remain in the Gerald Barnes Lambert, the retired chief executive of the to preserve the Victory, to re-instate the ship to her exact NMRN collections to this day, and on display. But of those pharmaceutical company which still bears his name and 1805 appearance, outfit and internal configuration, these items not required, some were disposed of or returned to who became, in Lily’s youth, with the immensely successful and other such items, however, could no longer be displayed their donors, and others where suitable were offered to Listerine trademark behind him - in prohibition America on board. Eventually, in 1929, agreement was reached with the new National Maritime Museum. There is no doubt - an eminent and wealthy art collector and international the SNR on a site adjacent to the ship for the construction that Frost, now approaching his 80th year, was profoundly yachtsman. He not only introduced his daughter to the sea of a new museum building, where this material could be disappointed by the Admiralty’s decision in effect to wind and ships, but to the Immortal Memory. conveniently displayed. There being no sensible case for the up his pioneering venture, and he wrote numerous heartfelt In her memoir, Remembering Nelson (1995), Lily tells Portsmouth’s Naval Dockyard

24 25 RNM buildings how her “first enchantment” with Heinrich Friedrich Fuger’s the remit of the Museum to embrace the history of naval striking portrait of the admiral, painted in Vienna in 1800 and operations in general. Its core running costs now to be met purchased by her father in about 1926, persuaded her to read by the Ministry, the collections were secured in perpetuity, first Southey’s Life of Nelson. From this early encounter, a thus in effect laying down the groundwork for the launch of young girl growing up in idyllic and favoured Princeton was the aforementioned National Museum, in September 2009. to follow Lily’s deep and abiding fascination with Admiral In conclusion, the new gallery occupied premises on Nelson, his fleet and the history of British naval mastery in the ground floors of one of the great 18th century Dockyard the age of sail. In due time, she became in her own right storehouses, buildings, described by Nikolaus Pevsner as a distinguished collector of Nelson memorabilia and other among the grandest of the numerous redbrick structures tangible mementoes of his career, a lifelong devotion to our erected in the period between 1750 and 1800. These greatest naval figure which was to culminate in her making outstanding buildings, however, were being threatened a gift of her private collection to the Royal Navy, in 1972. imminent demolition as surplus to operational requirements in The aforementioned Fuger is the undoubted gem of the 1960s, but the gift of the Lambert McCarthy Collection to this assemblage. But it also includes an impressive and the Royal Navy in 1972 gave them a (hard-fought, admittedly) extensive range of pottery and porcelain, incised glass, stay of execution. Their progressive conversion since that snuffboxes and enamels, prints, drawings, engravings and date, and continuing, provides a perfect opportunity for their paintings, including major works by Carmichael and Luny, and symbolic and cultural value as prime physical embodiments all manner of commemorative souvenirs, produced in dizzying of a distinguished naval tradition to evolve into a new and numbers for a triumphant nation, as well as memorials of dignified usage. Finally, the gift of the McCarthy Collection every description which a widespread sense of national together with the process of decision-making which initially grief at the hero’s death in action at the height of his fame placed it in Storehouse No 11, and which was to lead to the occasioned. The range is satisfyingly wide and splendidly formation of the Royal Naval Museum, and now the National diverse, the fruits of a lifetime of painstaking research and Museum of the Royal Navy, building on the pioneering close and superlatively well-informed scrutiny of sale room achievements of Mark Pescott Frost, laid the foundations and art house catalogues in the US, in Europe and in for the development of today’s prosperous mixed economy by Mrs McCarthy, where she and her husband John, ardent in Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard, based on the display, anglophiles both, made their home for many years after the research and interpretation of the naval heritage which has war. Indeed, her very last purchase, an engraving of the contributed so vitally to the prosperity of this city and its admiral’s funeral car, was made a mere few days before her people in modern times. death, on March 3rd 2006, aged 91. Campbell McMurray Not only did Lily present her collection to the Royal Navy, but she also supervised and contributed to the cost of its installation in a handsome new exhibition of Nelsonia in Portsmouth, first opened to the public in 1972. At the same time, very importantly, it was agreed that the older Campbell McMurray was the director of the Royal Naval Victory Gallery and its collections, including those formerly Museum from 1989 to 2006. He began his career at the part of the original Dockyard Museum (since 1938, vested National Maritime Museum in 1970 as the first Caird in the ownership of the Society of Nautical Research), and Research Fellow; he was subse¬quently appointed assistant the new Nelson material, known as the Lambert McCarthy keeper in the Department of Printed Books and Manuscripts. Gallery, should be quickly brought within the administrative He left Greenwich in 1983 to become the founding director ownership of the Ministry of Defence. Concurrently, of the Scottish Maritime Museum, where he served until Portsmouth Royal Naval Museum was established through 1989. His scholarly interests are in naval history and in the To advertise in Scuttlebutt please contact a deed of trust to provide a unified and professional history of seafaring in the 18th and 19th centuries. management structure for the collections and to expand Simon Briant on 01273 594455 [email protected]

26 27 PROVIDING LOGISTICAL SUPPORT The RFTG can also poise off the coast in international The is a civilian-manned Fleet of fuel and waters from where it can: THE ROYAL NAVY & LIBYA supply vessels which provides logistical support to increase v Deter threats How your Royal Navy contributed to the successful tri-service multi-national the operational endurance and worldwide reach of the Royal v Prevent conflict Navy. Tankers RFA Wave Knight and RFA Orangeleaf were v Provide options for military intervention. campaign in Libya last year able to keep Royal Navy and coalition warships on station off Libya for as long as required, whilst replenishment ship RFA INDEPENDENT MILITARY INTERVENTION Fort Rosalie provided stores and ammunition and performed a History teaches us not to take for granted access to overseas bases or proximity to our allies. Consequently, the RFTG The Royal Navy, working with the Army, the RAF and our the atmosphere was cool as people went about their jobs.” vital shuttle service between the area of operation and NATO also enables the UK to undertake independent military allies, played a major role in protecting Libyan civilians bases in the Mediterranean. Commander Colin Williams, Commanding Officer of HMS intervention should the need arise. This ability is currently from the regime of Colonel Gaddafi. A total of 16 warships, , after they silenced a Libyan shore battery which A COLLECTIVE EFFORT centred on our amphibious ships, which can insert Royal submarines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels have supported had opened fire on the ship and its . Libya exemplifies the Royal Navy’s ability to contribute to Marine Commandos ashore by landing craft and helicopter humanitarian, embargo and combat operations, either under operations which are ‘Joint’ (i.e. with the RAF and Army) and and then direct their operations from the sea. Crucially, NATO’s Operation Unified Protector or the UK’s Operation CLEARING LIBYAN WATERS OF MINES ‘Combined’ (with our foreign allies). A case in point is HMS this can be done at a time and place of our choosing, more Deference and . These included elements HMS Brocklesby cleared mines from the port of Misrata after Ocean’s maritime strike role. The helicopter carrier acted as quickly and with fewer logistical considerations than would of the Royal Navy’s new Response Force Task Group - the NATO spotted pro-Gaddafi forces laying the explosive a huge floating launch pad for Apache belonging be required of a conventional land force. From 2020, the RFTG UK’s military quick reaction force. devices, which threatened the flow of humanitarian aid into to the Army Air Corps, assorted Royal Navy helicopters Libya and the evacuation of civilians. will also incorporate carrier strike in the form of Britain’s new DELIVERING MARITIME STRIKE from the Fleet Air Arm and visiting helicopters from other Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers. These will form the Nuclear-powered attack submarines HMS Triumph and SURVEILLANCE AND INTELLIGENCE nations. These were operated in conjunction with other cornerstone of Britain’s ability to provide air support in conflict HMS Turbulent launched Land Attack Missiles Flying from HMS Ocean, Fleet Air Arm Sea King Mk7 attack helicopters flying from the ’s assault ship zones and project military power overseas. against regime targets ashore. Helicopter carrier HMS Ocean helicopters from 857 Naval Air Squadron provided intelligence Mistral, together with conventional strike missions by the operated Apache attack helicopters from 656 Squadron Army and surveillance to support the operation. Their mission RAF and allied air forces. SHIPS, SUBMARINES, RFAs, SQUADRONS & UNITS Air Corps which were able to target pro-Gaddafi forces with was to clear a path for the Apaches - finding safe routes in WHAT IS THE RESPONSE FORCE TASK GROUP? INVOVED IN OPERATIONS a high degree of precision. This was the first operational use and out of Libya without being spotted. They also fed back The Response Force Task Group (RFTG) is the UK’s military HMS Command Ship of an Apache helicopter from the sea, in this instance a more real-time information about ground movements for analysis quick reaction force. It is led by Commander UK Task Group RFA ARGUS Casualty/Aviation Ship flexible and lower risk alternative to basing them on land. by headquarters. (COMUKTG). Events overseas can have a direct impact on HMS BANGOR Sandown Class “We spend so long training for times like these that it is our own security and prosperity at home, but from Saddam HMS BROCKLESBY Hunt Class Minehunter EVACUATING CIVILIANS HMS CUMBERLAND Whilst on her way home from six months protecting UK fantastic to get a chance to do our jobs in a real, high threat Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait in 1991 to the Arab Spring environment…Uncertainty is always just around the corner, in 2011, almost all of the major conflicts and upheavals in RFA FORT ROSALIE Stores Replenishment Ship interests in the Gulf, HMS Cumberland was re-tasked to HMS IRON DUKE help evacuate civilians from Libya. In total she rescued 454 but our job, clearing the way so that humanitarian aid can modern times have taken the world by surprise. The RFTG reach civilians caught up in the conflict, makes me feel that represents the UK’s ability to respond to this uncertain and HMS LIVERPOOL Type 42 people, including 129 British nationals, transferring them HMS OCEAN Helicopter Carrier to the safety of . HMS York, diverted enroute to her I am really making a difference.” increasingly interconnected world. Petty Officer (Mine Warfare) Steve Moss, HMS Bangor. RFA ORANGELEAF Replenishment mission in the South Atlantic, extracted a further 43 entitled VERSATILE AND FLEXIBLE HMS SUTHERLAND Type 23 Frigate personnel, as well as delivering medical and food supplies DIRECTING UK AND ALLIED AIRCRAFT Consisting of ships, aircraft and Royal Marines held at very HMS TRIUMPH Trafalgar Class Submarine to aid agencies in Benghazi. Alongside the RAF, HMS Liverpool has controlled aircraft of high readiness. The RFTG is a scaleable force ideally suited to HMS TURBULENT Trafalgar Class Submarine ENFORCING A MARITIME BLOCKADE the NATO-led coalition from the sea using her sophisticated undertake a range of missions at short notice. Ships assigned RFA WAVE KNIGHT Fast Fleet Tanker Several Royal Navy frigates and patrolled the air surveillance technology. The ship’s Fighter Controllers to the RFTG can undertake separate tasks in different parts of HMS WESTMINSTER Type 23 Frigate Libyan coast to enforce the embargo on arms sales in directed 14 different types of aircraft for more than 280 hours, the world, or operate together as a single Task Group, working HMS YORK accordance with UN Security Council Resolutions 1970 and ensuring continuous coverage of the no fly zone. alongside the RAF and Army or with our foreign partners FLEET AIR ARM 815, 845, 847, 857 Naval Air Squadrons 1973. This included surveillance operations, repelling small “It was a really long night. I’d only just been trained for the Missions could include: FLEET PROTECTION GROUP RM Elite boarding teams boat activity, and boarding and inspecting merchant vessels. role and this was the first time I’d done it by myself– and I v Humanitarian aid and disaster relief Operating close to the coast, HMS Liverpool faced repeated was doing it for real! Through my headset I could hear the v Evacuating civilians from trouble spots Director of Public Relations (Royal Navy) attack from Gaddafi’s forces, and in return she demonstrated pilots reporting as they engaged the targets”. v Maritime security patrols (such as counterterrorism the potency of Naval Gunfire. Writer Lorissa Seville, 21, from Oldham in Greater and energy security) “It was very humbling to see my Ship’s Company working Manchester, was on the of HMS Albion during the v Maritime blockade so calmly and quietly. There was no jingoism, no shouting, first Apache helicopter strike mission. v Land attack v Amphibious operations

HMS Ocean Tomahawk missile HMS Bangor Directing operations Shore bombardment Apache helicopter Refugee HMS Albion Frigate

28 29 What YOU can do! WE NEED A NAVY Without the support of those in the naval community, the work of the Navy would be infinitely harder. There are several THE NAVY CAMPAIGN ways for you to get involved: Get informed – the Navy has produced a series of great briefings that set out exactly what the Navy and its branches The Navy Campaign was established in 2010, in the wake of are doing today. You can find these on their website the Strategic Defence and Security Review. As the long term (http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/) under the heading ‘About consequences of the political decisions started to loom from the Royal Navy’. These are the perfect briefings for sharing the mist, it became apparent that the passionate response with friends, colleagues and MPs. of the naval community to the cuts could be strengthened Get democratic – get in touch with your elected by some targeted direction. Thus the Navy Campaign was representatives and ask them to make your views heard. created, drawing together Cdre Steve Jermy RN’s many years It’s never been easier to contact your MP. You can write in the Royal Navy and his numerous contacts with the political to them at: experience of Bethany Torvell. [Name of MP] House of Commons The aim of the Campaign was, and still is, to get London information from those that have it to those that need it. For SW1A 0AA politicians, this meant providing a counterbalance to some You can send them an email through the fantastic service heavily biased briefings and fuel for some pertinent PQs. For offered by Write to Them (www.writetothem.co.uk). Many the press, it involves tracking down an angle on a story or MPs list their phone and fax number on their website – why finding a suitable quote from an elusive Admiral. One of the not call them up and arrange a meeting during their surgery most wonderful aspects of the job has been meeting some hours to discuss what the Navy does for this great nation? of the many groups and individuals that make up the naval Get vocal – get in touch with the Press. Write to the community, discovering common causes and frustrations, and national papers and your local papers. If you see some working with the Navy to address those. incorrect reporting, let the editor know! Many TV and radio The Navy is aware of our activities, but there is no programmes are interactive these days, allowing their official relationship nor have we sought official endorsement. audience to call, text or email in – why not get involved with Rather, our stance has been to remain independent so that we that? When dealing with the media, it’s best to keep things can speak out without being subject to pressure to follow a short and sweet. Work out what your main argument is, dress certain line because it is deemed political convenient. Having it up in a snappy yet polite sound bite, and then fire away! started in a defensive position, fighting to defend the Fleet Air Sign up to the Action List –we have set up a mailing list Arm, we have moved to a more proactive stance of promoting that we call our Action List, which we use to alert supporters the Navy as a whole. We also do our best to boost morale to news that might be of interest or a specific issue needs wherever and whenever possible, something that you can their support. You can sign up online through our website, or certainly get involved in! by emailing ‘[email protected]’. Making the case for the Navy is hard – there is a level Spread the word – tell your friends and family about the of ignorance that has to be addressed before we can start work of the Navy. Host a dinner party, an afternoon tea or to make the case for more specific areas, such as mine a session in the pub. Get your local community discussing countermeasure ships or maritime aviation. This malaise can the issues – as a taxpayer, you are footing the bill, and as be witnessed in much of the discussion surrounding Operation someone that lives in this country, these decisions will Ellamy or the debate about Arctic medals, and in impact on you! There is more information about us and our the general sea blindness by which this country is afflicted. website at the end. Support us What we do The Navy Campaign has been supported to date by very For the past year, we have been working in three arenas: kind donations. The FAAOA provided us with funding that Parliament, the media, and the naval community. In lasted until the start of December, which was fantastic. Parliament, we have been meeting with MPs and building However, looking at the progress we have made to date in up working relationships. We have also provided information raising the profile of the Navy and the threats it faces, we to those meeting their MPs and encouraged widespread believe this campaign will need to run on in to the future. engagement. With the media, we have been working to raise As such, we are looking to raise funds through contributions the profile of the Navy. As part of this, Beth has been putting from individuals and organisations. If you are interested, forward commentators for press, radio and TV interviews, as please get in touch with us via our website or by emailing well as arranging background briefings and introductions. [email protected] Within the naval community, we have been building up our Details network and facilitating meetings. The Navy Campaign website can be found at: www.thenavycampaign.com Bethany Torvell

31 Part I “Red Beard”

the Sea Vixen, to be cleared for the carriage and release of the bomb although there were operational limitations due The Story of Tactical Nuclear to environmental constraints with both types of aircraft and neither were cleared for arrested deck landings. The store, with its four flip-out stabilising fins, was carried externally Weapons in the Royal Navy on the Scimitar and Sea Vixen, the bomb carrier being pylon By Commander John Coker of “Explosion!” museum mounted under the port wing with a Bomb Release Safety Lock (BRSL) preventing inadvertent release. Internal carriage, again with a BRSL, was provided on the , the bomb For over thirty years during the , various ships of and naval airfields posing a threat to the Fleet. It was also being carried within the rotating bomb-bay. the Royal Navy were secretly modified to carry and operate considered that nuclear armed FAA strike aircraft could prove Five Fleet Carriers, HM Ships Victorious, Hermes, nuclear weapons. In the early 1960s suitably adapted strike to be an effective counter to the threat posed to Centaur, Eagle and Ark Royal, were ‘nuclear capable’ with carriers were deployed east of Suez with the free-fall nuclear shipping and convoys from powerful Soviet ‘Sverdlov’ class Red Beard, all having the necessary secure stowage and bomb Red Beard, the capability later being extended to cruisers. maintenance arrangements. The weapon was transported strike carriers operating west of Suez. Red Beard suffered This was to result eventually in Red Beard, Britain’s Loading a nuclear bomb in three main component sections i.e. nose and warhead from significant operational limitations and was eventually second generation atomic bomb (A-bomb), which was actually section (less the fissile core in its ‘Gauntlet’), the centre superseded by the much lighter and more versatile nuclear standards of safety and reliability in the design, construction the fourth type of British designed to enter section and the tail section, and stowed separately onboard, bomb WE177A, which could be used in the free-fall, laydown, and through service-life of the weapons and their warheads. having to be assembled using a special jig before loading on retarded or nuclear depth bomb roles. Both types of weapon For Red Beard reliability was achieved, wherever possible, an aircraft. Uniquely, Victorious had a ready-use magazine on could be carried by appropriately adapted nuclear capable using duplicated systems and appropriate cross-connections, the hangar deck in which an assembled Red Beard could be strike-aircraft of the Fleet Air Arm (FAA), with Scimitars, Sea and monitored, together with safety aspects, by a through-life stowed. On all the nuclear capable carriers the fissile cores Vixens and operating Red Beard and Buccaneers surveillance programme. To provide maximum safety, an early were stowed away from the rest of the bomb’s components in and Sea Harriers carrying WE177A. WE177A could also, requirement was for the in-flight-loading of Red Beard’s fissile ‘safes’ in a separate secure area, with periodic maintenance with minimal modification, be used by most types of ASW core but this proved impractical and ‘last-minute-loading’, i.e. routines being conducted on the cores in a specially installed rotary-wing aircraft of the period, appropriately adapted, as inserting and locking the core in place with the gauntlet tool fume cupboard. a nuclear depth bomb, operating from nuclear-capable ships immediately prior to take-off, was adopted. Three separate There is no official record of a ‘live’ round ever being in addition to the carriers. and unrelated events had to occur before store arming was flown but an inert weapon, fully representative except In this first part we look at the story of Red Beard or complete. These included the closing of a separation switch that it contained no nuclear material, was used during a the ‘Target Marker Bomb’ or, to give the weapon its correct which ensured that aircraft power could only initiate arming realistic strike sortie by a Buccaneer from Eagle during a Service designation, ‘Bomb, Aircraft, High Explosive (HE), events after one inch of travel following store release. A demonstration user-trial. Other similar fully representative 2000lb, Medium Capacity (MC)’. WE177A will be covered in timer was started, ensuring that the store’s air-driven turbo- rounds, again with inert cores, were used during the series the next part of this series. generators, which powered the internal arming, firing and of surveillance programme flights conducted by the RN in During the immediate post Second World War period, fuzing circuits, were only enabled after a time delay following support of a joint RN/RAF programme. These flights with the Admiralty and Naval Staffs had seen little operational Soviet Sverdlov release to allow the aircraft time to escape. ‘unarmed’ weapons were conducted from carriers, the advantage or economic benefit in having a nuclear capability In parallel with the bomb’s design and development, the service. It was developed in the 1950s to meet a Joint Naval aircraft landing at a Royal rather than at sea, being much more concerned with maintaining RN had been seeking a replacement for the and Air Staff Requirement (N/ASR) for a kiloton weapon returning to the carrier. the fighting ability of the Fleet in a nuclear environment. and an RN Staff Requirement (N.A.39) had been raised. The suitable for low-altitude release by and FAA Three of the ‘Fort’ class Royal Fleet Auxiliaries (RFAs) Recognizing the political advantage of a strategic capability original Requirement was modified and when issued aircraft in ‘tactical’ situations. The Joint Requirement was Langley, Sandusky and Rosalie were specially fitted with for nuclear strikes against Russia some consideration was called for a high speed, low-level strike aircraft capable of formally issued in late 1953 with an in-service date (ISD) of secure, permanent stowages tailored for Red Beard transit given in the late 1940s to the operation of strategic nuclear attacking ships at sea or in port with a variety of weapons, 1957 but changing requirements, changing priorities and a containers, with additional stowages, as well as maintenance bombers from strike carriers within range of Russia. This was including a nuclear bomb. The aircraft developed to meet degree of inter-Service rivalry led to several re-issues of the arrangements, for the nuclear components. These RFAs soon accepted as unrealistic, Britain’s first nuclear weapon, this Requirement was the . Prior to the Requirement with consequent delay to the ISD. A warhead, supported the Carriers on deployment, enabling any the free-fall Blue Danube, was too large and heavy for the arrival of the Buccaneer S Mark 1 in the Fleet, the Scimitar considerably smaller and lighter than Blue Danube’s, was necessary ‘disembarrassment’ off-load of ‘special weapons’ FAA aircraft under development at the time and would have became the first of the FAA’s aircraft, soon to be followed by developed by the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment when paying courtesy visits abroad. Director Armament required the construction of expensive special strike-carriers (AWRE) Aldermaston using an innovative implosion system. Supply (DAS) was also responsible for the transfer of Red in a period of severe economic constraint. This had been proposed by Woolwich Arsenal and resulted Beard between the stockpile and Carriers/RFAs in the United However by the early 1950s in the face of the growing in a more compact explosive chain to compress the fissile Kingdom (UK) using RN ‘Special Convoys’ and for transfers threat from the expanding and increasingly capable ocean material to achieve criticality. To enable weapon release by air between the UK and . going Soviet Navy, further consideration was given to in level flight at low altitude, various means of retarding The version of Red Beard issued to the RN was the developing a tactical naval nuclear bomb. The Chiefs of Staff the bomb, to allow the aircraft time to escape prior to Bomb, Aircraft, HE, 2000lb, MC Number 2, the bomb were made aware of the progress with the development of a detonation, were investigated and trialled by the Royal becoming available in limited numbers early in 1960. Number warhead considerably smaller and lighter than Blue Danube aircraft Establishment (RAE) Farnborough. This problem of 2 signified that it was the “Loft” version and designed for use and accordingly sought the views of the individual Services low-level attack was resolved by the adoption of the Low with LABS and release at low altitude, whereas the Number on the potential use of such a nuclear weapon. The Naval Altitude Bombing System (LABS) and the introduction of the 1, which was only used by the RAF, was the Ballistic version Staff responded with proposals for using these smaller toss or ‘loft’ bombing manoeuvre, the retarding requirement suitable for high altitude release. The main difference was bombs in tactical strikes by FAA carrier-borne aircraft under then being suspended. in the type of air-burst fusing, the Ballistic version having development against Soviet naval targets. These included The introduction of nuclear weapons into service use and a radar fuze and the Loft a barometric fuze, both versions attacking Soviet naval support facilities, including submarine the implications should there be an accident called for high pens and graving docks as well as naval shipping in port Buccaneer dropping a nuclear bomb

32 33 having an air-burst (with ground burst back-up) and ground former were for high altitude release above 25,000ft by RAF burst options. The de-selection of an air-burst could be made aircraft and the latter for use with LABS and entry into the in flight from the aircraft’s cockpit, the weapon detonating on loft manoeuvre at altitudes of up to 4,500ft by both RAF and “THE FALKLANDS WAR impact. Modifications were made to the Loft version with FAA aircraft. the introduction of the Mark 3 and Mark 4 variants aimed Both versions were 12ft long and 30ins diameter, at reducing the environmental limitations when carried by required Last Minute Loading (LML) of the fissile core and 30 YEARS ON” FAA aircraft, especially the Buccaneer, under world-wide employed flip-out fins which were deployed by lanyards at conditions. The weapon was first outloaded to HMS Hermes weapon release. Power for the arming, fuzing and firing A ONE DAY CONFERENCE AT THE in late 1960 when she was deploying to the Far East, approval circuits of both versions was supplied by ram-air driven for ‘emergency operational use only’ having been issued turbo-generators, with an air inlet on the nose of the weapon. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE ROYAL NAVY, PORTSMOUTH during the summer. Ironically, the bomb conceived by the The main difference between versions was that ballistic RN as an anti-surface ship strike weapon for use in the North employed radar fuzing and loft, which was a lighter weapon, Atlantic in support of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation used barometric fuzing. Nominal yield was 15 kilotons and 19 MAY 2012 (NATO) was first deployed in support of the South East Asia both versions were out of service by 1971 Treaty Organisation (SEATO) for potential use against land This conference will provide new, early career and established scholars the targets. Prior to this deployment various trials of stowages, opportunity to present new research and perspectives on the 1982 Falklands Conflict. handling and test equipment and at-sea stores transfers, Note: Commander John Coker MBE Royal Navy, of “Explosion!” together with the production of the appropriate operating museum, researches and documents the museum’s It will focus on the war at and from the sea. The conference will cover all aspects of procedures to ensure the necessary nuclear safety and unique collection of nuclear weapons, both strategic the maritime conflict from the perspectives of Britain, or neutral states. security measures, had to be undertaken. Strict ‘need to missiles and tactical bombs. John Coker served in the know’ and ‘two-man’ rules were enforced and the necessary Royal Navy for over twenty three years and on leaving Areas of particular interest to the conference include; war memory, veterans issues, Command and Control arrangements established to ensure the Service he continued to work for the Government the use of maritime airpower, amphibious warfare and amphibious forces including Marines, that no live weapons could be loaded onto an aircraft and being employed on the Navy’s strategic weapon systems. armed (i.e. fissile cores inserted) without the Prime Minister’s “Explosion!” the museum of Naval Firepower at Priddy’s , the legacy of the conflict (including corporate responses to the conflict prior authorisation. Hard in Gosport has a set of naval nuclear weapons including Polaris and Chevaline and is opening a new and lessons learned), domestic, social and cultural issues. Assembly and testing the weapon using the special gallery portraying the story of nuclear weapons in the assembly/disassembly jig under the ‘two-man-rule’ could Royal Navy. www.explosion.org.uk Conference Director, Dr Duncan Redford at: [email protected] take up to two hours, the bomb then being ready for loading into or onto the aircraft. The aircraft itself had to undergo a The National Museum of the Royal Navy role change involving the fitting of additional equipment , to THLS_Scuttlebutt_Advert_Layout 1 12/01/2012 10:46 Page 1 enable the fuzing and release of the store, prior to weapon loading and the ‘last-minute-loading’ of the fissile core. From 1960 to 1970 Red Beard operational rounds were deployed unobtrusively by the Fleet with no significant problems but, despite modifications, the bomb continued to suffer from shortcomings limiting its operational Trinity House- serving capabilities. Even before the weapon had entered service a draft ASR was circulated to the Naval Staff by the Air Staff for an ‘improved’ kiloton weapon the draft leading the Mariner since 1514 to a Joint N/ASR and for the development of a lightweight and versatile weapon that was to become WE177. WE177A, the naval version of the next generation tactical nuclear bomb will be covered in the next part of this series. Trinity House provides nearly 600 Aids to Navigation from lighthouses, buoys and beacons to the latest satellite navigation technology in England, Wales & the . Red Beard Details: – Two main operational versions, We provide commercial services to the maritime industry, offer voyages on our flagship the ‘ballistic’ or Bomb, Aircraft, HE, 2000lb, MC, No. 1 and THV Patricia and have converted a number of keepers’ cottages to holiday accommodation. the ‘Loft’ or Bomb , Aircraft, HE, 2000lb, MC, No 2. The Trinity House is also the UK’s largest fully endowed maritime charity. It provides major grants to maritime organisations engaged in welfare provision, education and training, and the promotion of safety at sea, and spends over £4million each year on its charitable objects. Main picture: Godrevy Lighthouse, St Ives Bay, West Cornwall. West Main picture: Godrevy Lighthouse, St Ives Bay,

www.trinityhouse.co.uk TWITTER: @trinityhouse_uk www.facebook.com/trinityhouseuk Red Beard nuclear bomb

34 35 HMS – D-DAY competing claims for the same shot down aircraft. We claimed a Mirage V which had already been shaken up by a SAN CARLOS MAY 1982 from ARGONAUT. We volunteered to go out to standby and assist the stopped ARGONAUT. We were close to ARDENT being finished off, a very nasty sight, with her crew being taken In May we commemorate the Thirtieth Anniversary of the Falklands Conflict with a wide ranging off by our sister ship YARMOUTH. We passed a tow to Conference in the Museum. HMS Plymouth led the task force into San Carlos and Ken Napier, a veteran ARGONAUT but as she had a total power failure, the who was on board at the time, has kindly provided an interesting curtain raiser for Scuttlebutt with Captain decided that the tow would be too awkward in the crowded waters of San Carlos, so we secured her alongside, this dramatic account of his ship in the thick of the action. unexploded bombs and all, and moved into San Carlos. I boarded her with my catering team and we went round The final decision to go ahead with Operation SUTTON, the South Georgia. Some surrendered, some broke away, to passing out food and hot drinks throughout the blackened repossession of the Falklands, was received at 1300 on 20 shoot down two Army Gazelles and to kill three of the four and damaged ship. Our Damage Control team provided power May. The Argentines had already been made aware on 18 downed aircrew in the water. from our own ship, and then got her Diesel Generators going, A missile from HMS Exeter destroys a Lear Jet May, the BBC having announced that the two invasion groups but her crew were very shocked. Overnight I had red piloted by Vicecomodoro R de la Colina (previously unseen had combined and were ready to attack. lights rigged to light the upper deck area between the two photograph) KN This was the most exhilarating and satisfying moment ships, and prepared for a big breakfast for both crews. I had of my life. From my Action Station on the , of also – with her permission - found some of her real eggs! quite dramatic effect. They later gave us a brass sign for our HMS Plymouth leading the twelve ship Amphibious Force, I (We’d had no eggs or NAAFI nutty for weeks – we’d been Dining Room inscribed “For the ship that saved us” – this was photographed the four lines of the group, with their thousands at the end of the supply lines for too long, and other ships perhaps a bit overdramatic but it had been a very interesting of troops on board, ploughing steadily and inexorably forward, had got there before us). I also managed a couple of hours few hours. And we did enjoy the eggs for breakfast so the under grey and overcast skies, through a moderate sea, with of sleep, my cabin being on the waterline beside one of her help was not all one way. some white horses. The photo is in front of me now as I unexploded bombs, and very noisy with the creaking of the We later buried their two dead at sea, under red lights type!! Other escorts were on either side, the carriers were fenders. I didn’t care. I went on board her again with my at night, with all appropriate ceremony, and two vicars. About over the horizon and the ASW helicopters were dipping 120 of us witnessed the burial, and it did bring home to us away – it was terrific: we were determined, we had the kit that people were actually being killed. But it also increased and we had the ships! our determination. We were topped up to 90 days of endurance, we had PLYMOUTH went on to protect the shipping in San Carlos an outfit and a half of ammunition, we had no Operational by day, and go out each night escorting ships out and in, and Defects awaiting stores, and we had even received mail bombarding here and there. Some thoughtful people on the the day before, a quite incredible feat of logistics support, way down had not given us much chance, one describing especially at such a distance. We were tired – I had had HMS Plymouth on fire in San Carlos after being bombed us as old Ming, but in fact with the raids coming in without little or no sleep for a couple of days – but we were going in. using their radar, overflying West Falkland to find their way, HMS Plymouth had been the first surface warship to Five escorts had taken up their positions in the Sound, our 4.5s etc were ideal: the first warning was often the actually sail from Exercise Springtrain. We’d retaken South as we led the Landing Craft and other ships into San Carlos, aircraft themselves swinging round from the northwest or Georgia, and Lt-Cdr Astiz had signed the final surrender in in the dark. Opposition ashore was almost negligible, and south. We had very high morale: and bad jokes. One busy our Wardroom. ( was finally sentenced to “life” although we were prepared for NGS, this was not needed. day, the Seacat aimer commented “Never let a Dago by!” on October 26th, 2011, in Argentina, for torture and various We were heavily attacked by air all day. Our 20 year old We were eventually caught on our own in daylight out murders). We’d worked ourselves up with daily circuit Seacat aimer (the average age onboard was 20.8, slightly in the Sound, by six Mirage Daggers on their way to Bluff training: apparatus, fire fighting, , rerouting older than other ships, as we were the 6th Frigate Squadron Cove – we were both surprised to see each other, but not electrical supplies etc. We’d fired an AS11 missile against leader), had one hiccup, when he failed to gather his first surprised enough to stop us shooting down two of them, the Argentine submarine SANTA FE, and had bombarded Seacat of the day as he fired at a Pucara, and the missile and being hit by four bombs and numerous cannon shells, . We’d landed our SAS at night, who’d gone on to passed between CANBERRA’s mast and funnel. He was very from the rest. Luckily no-one was killed. Only one bomb capture Astiz and his 15 Special Forces troops. We’d gone on successful for the rest of the war. There were continuous actually went off, as it hit a very solid , which to meet and escort incoming ships, including our own little air raids for the next five hours, and we engaged with 4.5s, caused a big fire. When we’d got this out, we were repaired flotilla of LSLs. And we’d had our 21st birthday with enough Seacat, 20mm Oerlikon and GPMG. The two WWII vintage further out at sea, by Stena Seaspread: we’d been the most cake for everyone on board. Oerlikons were fired by one of my Leading Cooks, and an seriously damaged of any ship which didn’t actually sink. We We split into four groups, and headed into Falklands LRO(T) – not seamen gunners. Despite the Combat Air Patrol Ken Napier peers out of the damaged funnel of HMS volunteered and went back into action on the Gun Line (where Sound. The wind had dropped and we had a clear night for (CAP) the Arg aircraft – Aeromacchi, Syhawk A4s, perhaps Plymouth GLAMORGAN had been hit by a lorry mounted a few Etendards and Mirage Vs – were clearly targeting and hitting days before) as we still had plenty of shells on board, and our potential Naval Gunfire Support against the Arg troops team, and we literally cajoled, pushed and shepherded her the warships in the Sound but luckily missing us in San Carlos. we knew the 105s ashore were short of ammunition. As we on Fanning , to the north west of San Carlos water. crew into coming on board us. Their ship was still dark with In the Sound, ANTRIM was hit, BRILLIANT and were preparing for our first call for fire, I heard on my flight Troops had been landed to the north of Fanning Head, and temporary lighting here and there, plenty of damage all round BROADSWORD were damaged, and ARGONAUT was deck headset, over the radio from ashore, “The white flags we could see their tracer going into enemy positions. The Arg and the contrast between our undamaged ship helped to bring troops had anti-tank weapons, and we in PLYMOUTH – and stopped dead in the water with unexploded bombs on are going up!” – and they were. board. ARDENT was bombed and hit repeatedly. Half of the their crew round. I have never seen such a change in morale, the Landing Craft we were leading, were so close we could as they clambered dully on board and left quite lively, our 40 aircraft attacking us were assessed as being shot down, Lieutenant Commander Ken Napier MBE, Royal Navy have been damaged by them seriously just as the Arg reassurance and what was for us normal cheerfulness, had a GUERRICO had been almost sunk by our troops defending but this was difficult to confirm, as there were naturally

36 37 HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH - UPDATE LOST CS FORESTER MANUSCRIPT FOUND AND PUBLISHED

The Royal Navy and Portsmouth Dockyard are inextricably linked and it is essential at this time of Seldom do we ever get the chance to read a genuine wrote his second Hornblower book ‘’. new book by a deceased popular author but in the case The draft of ‘The Pursued’, which had been put to one rumours that we closely developments of both. Rumours about the future have been sparked of the famous twentieth century naval writer CS Forester side, appears to have disappeared at about this stage. The off by BAE Systems review of their operation in Portsmouth and fears for job prospects amongst (1899 – 1966) this is now possible due to an extraordinary Second World War followed the Spanish Civil War and CS the 3,000 workforce. On the other hand the Royal Navy has confirmed the decision in the Strategic chance discovery. A manuscript, by Forester, the naval Forester travelled around before moving to the USA. In historian, biographer of Nelson and creator of ‘Hornblower’, fact the book had not been lost and the manuscript finally Defence & Security Review that Portsmouth would remain a key main Naval Base. Portsmouth is the disappeared over seventy-five years ago and it was assumed, turned up in a minor auction in London where fortuitously Royal Navy’s premier naval base, home to sixty per cent of the Fleet and in the wake of BAE Systems until very recently, to have been lost for ever and Hornblower it was spotted by Dr Colin Blogg and Lawrie Brewer of the review it is reassuring to have the MoD confirmation that whatever happens Portsmouth will remain was considered to have been to blame. CS Forester Society. They managed to acquire and then authenticate the manuscript but it had been put up for the home of the Royal Navy. It is important that we keep a close eye on work in the dockyard and with It was in 1935 that CS Forester wrote the complete draft auction anonymously and the identity of the vendor had that in mind the latest BAE Systems progress report is below. Ed. of a crime thriller entitled ‘The Pursued’. At that time he was been rigidly withheld. All attempts to discover the vendor in London busy creating his great fictional naval hero ‘Horatio and thus uncover the story of what had happened to the When I last reported, we were just about to begin assembling The assembly process has been incredibly smooth Hornblower’. In fact during that period he and his publisher manuscript failed. The book was eventually published for the first blocks of HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH (QNLZ). I am considering the scale of this project, with minor delays caused became so occupied with the newly created Hornblower that the first time by Penguin Classics in November last year. pleased to say that we have make quick progress over the by the weather – particularly high-speed winds which mean ‘The Pursued’ had to be put to one side. It is not clear when Whilst ‘The Pursued’ is not a naval story, aficionados of CS last three months and a substantial amount of block work the Goliath is unable to operate. However, even with the idea of creating Hornblower first occurred to Forester but Forester will nevertheless be delighted with the opportunity is now in the dock at , despite the weather doing its weather delays, the assembly programme remains on track with his passionate interest in naval history he had bought to read this brand new and exciting book. More information best to disrupt things. and I look forward to further progress next year. three volumes, containing six issues of the Naval Chronicle, is available on the web site of the CS Forester Society In September work began to join Lower Block 03 (LB03) Construction work on HMS PRINCE OF WALES (PWLS) in a second hand book shop in 1927. The Naval Chronicle (http://csforester.wordpress.com/). and Centre Block 03 together (CB03). CB03 consisted of is now beginning to pick up pace, with work underway on was a detailed magazine published monthly between 1790 John Roberts four sections, and all were in place at the end of October. In Lower Block 01 in Appledore, and Lower Block 03 in Govan. and 1820, thus covering the years of the . November, the first Sponson (03) was lifted into place and Although it may seem far away, we are expecting the first When Forester was offered a Hollywood contract to write was followed by Sponsons 04 and 06 in December. The final block delivery to Rosyth toward the end of 2013. We already a film script he travelled to in 1935 on board the Sponson lift is scheduled for January next year and we should hold a large number of components for PWLS at the storage liner Aquitania and took the Chronicles, to study with him. have a fully joined “Super Block” (which is Lower Block + facility near Glasgow which currently holds some 5.9 million At that time he was becoming well established as a popular Centre Block + Sponsons) in April 2012. QEC items and will ensure we have everything needed to writer with his latest book ‘The ’ having just Hot on the heels of this milestone will be the delivery of begin assembly in 2014. The images below show LB01 (left) been published. Six years earlier he had written ‘Brown on the next major block, Lower Block 02 from Portsmouth, which and LB03 (right). Resolution’ a naval story set during the war at sea in the WREATH WORKSHOP will follow the same assembly process as that for Lower Block The 18 month investigation (known as the Conversion Pacific in the First World War. The book was made into a IN THE 03. 2012 will see a lot of assembly work. Development Phase (CDP)) into the conversion of one carrier cinema film, entitled ‘Forever England’ starring the late ROYAL NAVAL MUSEUM. continues, and we are looking at two main options: an in- John Mills and the American version, entitled ‘Born for Glory’ was released in 1935. Forester became disenchanted After the success of the previous year’s by Hollywood and decided to return to writing at home in Christmas Wreath Workshop in the London. He booked a passage back to the UK travelling on Royal Naval Museum, numbers doubled for the the Margaret Johnson via Central America and the Panama December 2011 event. Friends of the Museum Canal. During the long leisurely voyage home he studied the volunteer Hazel Woodman, a professional floristry Chronicles and was inspired to write his first Hornblower lecturer, commented that the standard of wreaths book ‘The Happy Return’ set mostly in the Pacific off the produced was excellent and they all enjoyed taking coast of Central America. The book was made into a film their work home to adorn their front doors. Lower blocks 01 and 03 of PRINCE OF WALES ‘Captain Horatio Hornblower’ by Warner Brother, starring build conversion of PWLS, or a refit conversion of QNLZ. We Gregory Peck, in 1951. expect our investigations will conclude later this year and On return to UK Forester was not certain that Hornblower final decisions will be taken in early 2013. would be a success and so switched to what he knew best, Assembling the ‘Super Block’ of QUEEN ELIZABETH I was glad to see a successful test launch of the F-35C writing good novels and wrote ‘The Pursued’ a gripping Joint Strike Fighter from the Electro-Magnetic Aircraft Launch story of murder, sex and revenge set in London. The finished The picture above was taken in early December and (EMALS) test facility at Lakehurst in late November. The shows LB03, CB03 and Sponsons 03 and 04. You can see the draft was sent to publishers in London and also in the USA completion of this test programme (which will re-commence but this was not followed up due to the from hangar space as well. When complete, this “super block” later in 2012 as the test facility is undergoing maintenance) will weigh about as much as two Type 45 Destroyers, yet the success of Hornblower, which fully occupied Forester. will go some way to helping us with the various safety cases Then Forester was drawn to the Spanish Civil War (1936- only represents about ¼ of the ship! As I have said before, we need to certify F-35C with EMALS. it’s a very tight fit in the dock. 38) and travelled to . It was there he developed his BAE Systems Maritime interest in the Peninsular War of the Napoleonic Wars and

38 39 Book reviews Guns, Torpedoes, Mines and ASW Weapons of All Nations, The purpose of the was to prevent GEOFF HUNT FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY An Illustrated Directory” this book is certainly what it says on a prohibitive naval arms race and to a certain extent this was the cover but it is much more than just that. achieved but the development of the fleets over this period OF MARINE ARTISTS Friedman does cover all weapons, the biggest section was to have a crucial impact on the Second World War. Though being devoted to British guns, which takes up a third of the the treaty stopped the building of new battleships it led to the book, over three hundred pages on guns, forty-five pages construction of more powerful heavy cruisers in their place. The on torpedoes and forty pages on mines and ASW weapons. book commences with an assessment of the major navies after The Museum is lucky enough to be able to count Geoff Hunt So visitors to the Museum can enjoy Geoff’s work which The weapons are dealt with by nation in order of the main the First World, starting with the Royal Navy “..In size, power among its supporters and friends. He has been a stalwart is hung in the Sailing Navy Gallery and up the stairs to the naval fleets; British, German, US, French, Italian, Russian and reputation the world’s premier fleet…” followed by the of our Patrick O’Brian Weekends, not just describing the first floor in our main building. Walking passed his paintings and Japanese then other navies and then by size within USN, Japanese, French and Italian navies. then sets creative process from which sprang the wonderful cover every day, I never fail to admire their composition, colours each weapon category. He also covers the development of out the treaty in detail going through the various articles and images for the Aubrey/Maturin series (of which more later), and draftsmanship. Hearing him talk about how a painting ammunition pointing out the strengths and weaknesses of pointing out the importance already being attached to aircraft but in contributing his first-hand experiences of the author. evolves from his mind’s eye to the finished work, often via the different ammunition used by different countries. But carriers as capital ships. He summarises the impact of the treaty These were, I recall, always polite and positive, if occasionally the back of an envelope (some of which he has kept!) and more than just describing the individual weapons Friedman under the heading “Winners and Losers” with the Americans enigmatic. through hours of research and sometimes model-building, adds an excellent introduction to each section covering basic as clear winners but the British as losers having effectively lost It was less luck and more inspired curatorship that led to is a wonderful experience. What a great treat that he has principles, tactics, development and construction, which puts their position of world naval supremacy. The British also failed the Museum owning the first 14 original paintings from the allowed us to adorn the cover of this issue of Scuttlebutt with the weapons in perspective. to abolish submarines. The rest of the book goes into detail on series. Colin White, an early aficionado of O’Brian’s writings, another tremendous image. His clear concise summaries provide excellent analysis of the main categories of ships; particularly interesting are the bought the originals before the tremendous runaway success Julian Thomas the naval history of the period. A particularly fascinating aspect chapters on the treaty cruisers and the development of aircraft of the relaunch of the series in the early 1980s (undoubtedly of the book is the contrasting essays on British and German carriers. Jordan concludes with the 1927 Geneva Conference, in part due to Geoff’s cover work) made his later works hot naval tactics. He deals with the key enabling technology of which reviews the many consequences of the earlier treaty. properties and well beyond our reach. fire control and its crucial importance to long range gunnery This book is a really excellent source of information with many duels. He covers the battleship versus debates in splendid photographs, line drawings and detailed technical the fleet handling discussions of the time. He adds fascinating diagrams, in all, an ideal reference book for the naval enthusiast insights such as comments about Jellicoe’s tactical plot giving of the period.. gallant battle in the SUTHERLAND, and the battlecruiser him a dramatic advantage over Admiral Scheer enabling him to John Roberts Book reviews INDOMITABLE entering Malta. These all illustrate his control his ships and keep crossing the German line. He claims extraordinary ability to bring ships and novels to life. that the sense of confusion and surprise on board the German VICTORY IN COMMAND His North American study stems from his work with flagship almost certainly convinced Scheer that it would be The Sea Painter’s world the Mystic Maritime Museum, and covers actions of the suicidal to fight the again. History has tended to The autobiography of Captain Alexander Grant The New Marine Art of Geoff Hunt Revolutionary War including the tale of HMS RAINBOW’S criticise and look down on Jellicoe for his failure to gain a great 1872-1961 Conway Books £30. navigational exploits in attacking a mast-ship off Wiscasset. victory at Jutland but this book shows him in a better light as a The final study again covers the factual and the fictional - more gifted admiral with a great tactical mind. Friedman shows “Victory in Command” is probably one of the most coveted and exploits of Nelson, Aubrey and Hornblower. A final touch in how Jellicoe was against Churchill’s obsession with numbers Geoff Hunt’s work will be familiar to most readers of Scuttlebutt evocative titles for a naval book. Captain Grant was a reluctant the book is a painting of the light carrier GLORY returning and heavy gun calibre but he also points out Jellicoe’s rather – it is his paintings that are the covers of the Patrick O’Brian author, badgered by his peers into writing his autobiography home in 1947 –a tribute to his father-in-law who was serving preoccupied fear of torpedoes, one of the reasons he failed to novels and adorn the staircases of the Royal Naval Museum in 1947 with the intention of entitling it “Through the Hawse on board. I would dare anyone to criticise Geoff Hunt’s work close the German High Seas Fleet at Jutland. in Portsmouth. His work is not merely a seascape of sailing Pipe” in acknowledgement of his service on the Lower Deck. which I find a delight to study and absorb. He brings the There is a prodigious amount of detail on so many ships, but as typified by the covers of the O’Brian novels, he Unfortunately no publisher could be found, but his grandson novels we know and love to life with marvellous paintings, weapons, much of it from Friedman’s own extensive research concentrates on close ups of parts of the ship. This book rescued the manuscript a few years ago, edited it, and had it and the history is enriched by his illustrative works. A coffee but also compiled from John Campbell’s original manuscript uncovers some of his trade secrets and then uses 6 specific privately published for which we should all be grateful as this table size book, it has been beautifully published and the prepared for an encyclopaedia of naval weapons case studies to show how his incredible attention to detail is a delightful tale. plates are of the highest quality; this is a wonderful book for but never published. This thoroughly well researched book produces paintings which you almost feel you could use to The son of a Scots miller, he joined the Navy in 1887. As anyone with a love of the sea. I leave it to Patrick O’Brian to gives a detailed technical account of the development of naval make models from, they are so technically accurate. a Boy Seaman, he undertook initial training in Devonport before sum up Geoff Hunt’s work “perfectly accurate in period and weapons during a critical period of history. It provides a really In the introduction, Geoff Hunts acknowledges the joining the PENGUIN, a surveying sloop equipped with steam. detail, but very far from merely representational, are often superb source of information with many splendid photographs, influence of artists such as Montagu Dawson. I feel that Clearly bright, he was a Petty Officer by 22 before embarking diffused with a light reminiscent of Canaletto”. I cannot line drawings and detailed technical diagrams and is an ideal part of his skill must lie in the fact that he sails and has a on what was to become his chosen career path - gunnery. better that remark. reference book for all naval enthusiast and historians. This natural affinity with the sea. He admits that his ships must be Joining Whale Island when to his own admission he had never Peter Wykeham-Martin excellent book is most strongly recommended. “correctly drawn” and that it is very difficult to paint ships in seen a breech loading gun fired, he had a meteoric rise and left a “loose, painterly, impressionistic manner”. Again his sailing John Roberts after less than 2 years as Commissioned Gunner – aged 24. knowledge allows him to ensure that his running rigging would, NAVAL WEAPONS OF WORLD Then followed a time in training ships and reserve fleet ships for example, work! WAR ONE WARSHIPS AFTER WASHINGTON before he joined his fully operational ship, the battleship His case studies cover the Home Waters, the ILLUSTRIOUS – to find he was the fourth Gunner in a year! Mediterranean, the , and By Norman Friedman, published by Seaforth By John Jordan, published by Seaforth In the years preceding the First World War he served in Nelson in the . The Home Waters case studies Publishing (Hardback, 408 pages, £45). Publishing (Hardback, 338 pages, £30). the battleship KING EDWARD VII and then a further period on is a good example of his breadth of work with paintings of the staff at EXCELLENT before joining the LION in1915. His Etchells yachts racing in , HMS BULWARK at the When reviewing books by Norman Friedman it is becoming This thoroughly well researched book gives a detailed technical experiences in LION including Jutland are fascinating. Unhappy Trafalgar Review and the . The Mediterranean increasingly difficult to find the right superlatives which do account of the development of the five major naval fleets (UK, with the method of supplying cordite to turrets, he implemented case study covers the artists voyage in the modern sailing full justice to his masterly works and this latest superb book US, French, Italian & Japanese) during the critical period, 1922 a new system which potentially could have saved some of the cruise liner Sea Cloud, Jack Aubrey’s Mahon, Hornblower’s is no exception. Entitled “Naval Weapons of World War One, - 1930, after the Washington Naval Treaty of February 1922. other Jutland battlecruiser losses if they had adopted similar

40 41 Book reviews Book reviews

methods. As it was, Grant was lucky not to have been injured in The book also covers three other wreck sites; one, SS Another interesting chapter is an assessment of mid- the LION Q turret explosion. Promoted to Lt, he was appointed THEY COULDN’T HAVE DONE IT Republic (1865) was found 150km off the south-eastern USA 18th century English ship losses due to French and Spanish in command of the destroyer GRIFFON, despite never having WITHOUT US The Merchant Navy in coast in a depth of 500 metres. The Republic’s recoveries privateering. I was surprised to learn that English merchant kept a watch at sea! the Falklands War include a wide selection of porcelain objects and bottles, one losses were slightly higher than those from the combined Beautifully crafted English and nice mix of anecdotes and of which was full of preserved peaches, besides 4,135 gold and French and Spanish ships captured by the Navy and English experience paint a very vivid picture of the Navy of the early By John Johnson-Allen, published by Seafarer 47,263 coins. This was an amazingly successful salvage . Other chapters cover exploration on the eastern 20th century. As a committed Gunnery officer (one can almost Books (Softback, 252 pages, £9.95). operation at twice the depth of recovering the gold from HMS seaboard of the United States with recoveries from the hear his voice) he covers his various appointments – including Edinburgh. Another site is thought to be HMS Sussex, an Jacksonville ‘Blue China’ wreck. This unidentified the job of Grounds Gunner - at his mater, EXCELLENT with 80-gun third-rate lost in the Straits of in 1694 found has been dated to the mid-nineteenth century, based on the affection and detail, bringing to life some of the names and With the thirtieth anniversary of the Falklands conflict fast at a depth of 821 metres. The continuous 3-5 knot current on cargo of Staffordshire ceramics. This site illustrates Odyssey’s traditions that still survive (I hope!) at Whaley – “the House approaching this excellent book is a timely reminder of the the seabed in the Straits has reduced the site to a flat plane technical capability to delicately excavate the site at a depth that Jack built”, Domville’s approach etc. He was clearly a essential role played by the support ships, the Royal Fleet with only iron cannon and ballast showing. A preliminary of 370 metres. character of the old school – and as his grandson points out in Auxiliary (RFA) and ships taken up from trade (STUFT) to the investigation has taken place with the agreement of HMG. This is a well presented work lavishly illustrated in colour a footnote, there is no mention of his wife or family. successful outcome of that war. There have been a great The two editors work for OME, an American company by a company that are world leaders in underwater excavations, I have only one minor issue – it isn’t really a criticism. many books on the conflict but relatively few covering the who are the world leaders in operating ROVs (remote operating and capable of conducting successful ROV excavations at even The last chapter consists of thoughts by the author on important part played by the over seventy merchant ships vessels) for shipwreck exploration. They can be congratulated greater depths than the ‘Blue China’ site. changes in the Navy between 1888 and 1945. I found this which deployed down to the Falklands. The book is divided into on producing a fascinating book based on material contributed .John Bingeman somewhat dated the book –which stands up very well as an separate sections dealing with the different types of ship, after by different authors. While I was surprised to see a couple of autobiography – but it is only a very minor point. Having said a brief introduction chapter two covers the liners Canberra and repeated pre-disturbance surveys and illustrations, I understand that, I thoroughly enjoyed this gem of a book which is on sale Uganda with many first hand accounts from people who were from the Editors that this is intentional; the ten chapters are in the RN Museum shop. onboard. This is followed by the container ships starting with stand alone papers by different authors brought together in a .Peter Wykeham-Martin the tragic story of the Atlantic Conveyor before following the single publication. Anyone who watches the BBC’s Antiques story of the Atlantic Causeway. Subsequent chapters cover Roadshow will find this book, with its wide variety of artefacts The Friends of The Royal the tankers, ferries, repair ships and tugs. The RFA section depicted by excellent photography, fascinating. THE GRAND FLEET covers RFA Olmeda and the RFA Sir Lancelot. Each story is Naval Museum and By David K Brown, published by Seaforth brought to life by the first hand accounts. Complete with a very John Bingeman Publishing (Softback, 208 pages, £16.99). fitting introduction by Admiral Sir Michael Layard, a survivor H.M.S. Victory from the Atlantic Conveyor sinking, it is well illustrated with OCEANS ODYSSEY 2 twenty photographs and a number of line drawings. The book Underwater Heritage Management 36th Annual General Meeting This book, first published fourteen years ago, has become provides a clear insight into the experiences of the men of the a minor classic. Written by the late David Brown, who was Merchant Navy and the RFA at war and is a welcome addition & Deep-Sea Shipwrecks in the and Reception Deputy Chief Naval Architect before retirement in 1988, it to the many accounts of the Falklands conflict. & demonstrates his clear mastery of the subject. Sub titled .John Roberts Edited by Greg Stemm and Sean Kingsley, Princess Royal Gallery “Warship Design and Development 1906 - 1922”, “The Grand Fleet” covers an important period of British naval history, from published by Oxbow Books ISBN 978-1-84217- National Museum of the Royal the launch of the revolutionary Dreadnought, through the OCEANS ODYSSEY 442-5 (£25.00). Navy, Portsmouth First World War and on up to the Washington Naval Treaty of Edited by Greg Stemm and Sean Kingsley, The Editors should be congratulated on publishing their second 1922. Brown tackles this huge subject in two main parts, first volume within a year of Oceans Odyssey (1) reviewed above. ‘Pre-War Design’ then the more extensive section on ‘Wartime published by Oxbow Books ISBN 978-1-84217- Thursday 3rd May 2012 442-9 (£25.00). The latest book addresses the problem created by Government Experience and Design’. complying with the UNESCO Convention on the Protection at 17.30pm The book is completed with a fairly short section on design of Underwater Cultural Heritage without appreciating the leading up to the Washington Naval Treaty, focusing on capital Odyssey Marine Exploration (OME) has been surveying the difference between terrestrial and underwater sites. The Guest Speaker ships. There are many books devoted to the capital ships of the English Channel for interesting wreck sites since 2005. A ravages of storms and modern heavy fish trawls will period as well as the many engagements in World War One, major achievement has been finding HMS Victory (1737-44) continue to destroy underwater heritage sites left ‘in situ’, the Matthew Sheldon but this book is fascinating as it includes smaller warships and which over the last 40 years has defied numerous searches. recommendation of the Convention. Head of Curatorial Department submarines. It also follows up the many lessons learned from Now identified, Victory lies thirty miles south of Start Point in Above I reported the excitement of the discovery of the combat and the consequent major impact on design. Though a depth of less than 80 metres. At the time of loss there were 100-Gun Victory (1744) site with all bronze cannon. The latest The Development of the a comparatively short book it nevertheless manages to cram no survivors from this 100-gun flagship that had an outfit of all book has chapters on “the Background to their Casting” and in a great deal of information and is well illustrated with bronze cannon. Of these, forty-one appear within Odyssey’s a “Conservation Report” on the two guns now with Royal New 20th and 21st Century many photographs, drawings, graphs and tables. This book is photo mosaic of the surrounding seabed. The photographs Armouries at Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill. More recent surveys an essential primer for any serious study of the period, which show that many have been disturbed by fishing trawlers by Odyssey Marine Exploration in the Western Approaches Galleries covers the zenith of British seapower. Strongly recommended including some with wire abrasions; this is worrying since were devoted to identifying German U-boat losses. This for all interested in British and Naval history. their concretion covering has been knocked off exposing their chapter is written by Axel Niestlé from Dabendorf in Booking details will be sent .John Roberts bronze to further degradation. To prove Victory’s identity, two who has researched the histories of these submarines leading bronze were raised and subsequently bought by the to their correct identification; this has created an opportunity to under separate cover MoD. They are under conservation at Fort Nelson on Portsdown rewrite German naval history now that their ultimate ‘graves’ Hill before being exhibited at the ‘National Museum of the are known. With views from Odyssey’s ROV (Remote Operating Royal Navy’. Vessel), Axel was able to positively identify five.

42 43 EVENTS at the Museum in 2012 Arena events Conferences, lectures and seminars Saturday 30 June, 12.30pm – 4.30pm Saturday 19th May & Sunday 20th May Armed Forces Day 2012 The Falklands War 30 years on Free event, no booking required, all ages welcome. For further details please contact 02392 To register an interest in attending please contact [email protected] or 727582 or email: [email protected] telephone 02392 727577 Sunday 5th August 2012, 11am-4.30pm Wednesday 13th June, 5.30pm It’s A Naval Knockout All you need is five participants. Whether you’re a five a side footy team or the greatest quiz The First Sea Lord’s Annual Lecture on Naval History and Strategy team ever, there’ll be an event for you and of course free candy floss! Sir Julian Corbett and his critical role in creating the strategic template for a maritime state, Professor Andrew Lambert, King’s College London For further details please contact 02392 727582 or email: [email protected] Free event but registration required to enter a team in the afternoon with a charge of £2 per person. Renowned historian Andrew Lambert examines the impact of Sir Julian Corbett, advisor to Admiral Fisher and author of ‘Naval Operations’ the official history of naval operations in the First World War. Tuesday 6th March, 12th June, 11th September and 4th December, 2pm – 4pm Free event, booking essential as spaces are limited. Please contact 02392 727 577 or email New for 2012! Naval Tea Club [email protected] A new social event for seniors! Join us for tea, chat and reminiscence with a different theme, artefacts and archives each time. Saturday 9th June and Saturday 13th October, 10.30am to 1pm Free event but booking needed. Please contact 02392 727584 or email [email protected] for further information. Naval service certificates demystified A practical half-day workshop aimed at family historians wanting to learn more about the Other events information given in ratings service certificates. Cost £16 including light refreshments and an information pack. Places limited, booking Join us to hear new and established scholars present their latest research on aspects of essential. Please call 023 9272 3795 or email: [email protected] naval history. Saturday 31st March, 11am to 4pm Research seminars Antarctic Discovery Day A special one-day event commemorating the centenary of Scott’s Antarctic expedition. Join us to hear new and established scholars present their latest research on aspects of Free, drop-in event, no ticket required, all ages welcome. Please contact 02392 727588 or naval history. email [email protected] for details. Wednesday 14th March, 5.30pm Those they left behind: Naval families during the Napoleonic Wars Friday 23rd March and Saturday 24th March, 2.30pm Dr Helen Doe, University of Exeter Hidden Treasures - HMS Victory’s crew Join us in Captain Hardy’s Cabin for a special viewing of artefacts and archives connected to Wednesday 9th May, 5.30pm the men who served on HMS Victory. Places are limited to 15 people, so book early to avoid disappointment. Packing a Punch: Naval cartoons in print, propaganda and private scribbling Matthew Sheldon, National Museum of the Royal Navy Cost £20 - including refreshments and a ship visit. Booking essential. Please contact 02392 727565 or email [email protected] All seminars are free, no booking required. Call 02392 727577 or visit http://www.royalnavalmuseum.org/Researchseminars.htm for details

44 45 Other events, continued Behind the Scenes tours and Open Days Saturday 6th October, 12 to 4.30pm Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd September, 10.30am, 11.45am, 1.30pm and 3pm Black History Month Multicultural Day Behind the scenes at the Museum Join us to celebrate black history and discover more about the Royal Navy’s links to different Enjoy a tour of artefact and archive stores with one of our curators and discover their countries around the world. Investigate cultural artefacts from our collections, find out about highlights among the thousands of items kept behind the scenes. Nelson’s multicultural navy, listen to music and accounts of first contact plus discover how All tours are free but must be booked in advance. Contact 02392 839766 or email new foods and art forms travelled to this country and influence our lives today. [email protected] to reserve a place. Free, drop-in event, all ages welcome.Please contact 02392 72784 or email [email protected] for further information. Saturday 1st to Wednesday 5th September, 10.30am, 11.45am, 1.30pm and 3pm Below HMS Victory’s water line Join one of HMS Victory’s tour guides for a unique chance to go below the water line. Walk Saturday 10th November, 11am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm under 3500 of ship and view Victory’s at close range for a completely different Remembrance Day perspective of the ship. Join us to find out about Veterans experiences through artefacts, documents and films not All tours are free but must be booked in advance. Only 15 places per tour. Contact 02392 usually on public display. Listen to poetry, meet a World War 2 Naval Officer and make a 839766 or email: [email protected] to reserve a place. poppy or ‘forget-me-not’ postcard to add to our ‘Wheel of Remembrance’. Free, drop-in event, all ages welcome.Please contact 02392 72784 or email Saturday November 17, 2pm [email protected] for further information. Storehouse 10 Hard Hat Day A chance to find out about our new, Heritage Lottery-funded 20th and 21st Century Navy galleries project. Join the architects and project team to learn more about the history and Inspired Art! workshops for adults conservation of Storehouse 10 - a grade 1 listed building dating from 1777- and our exciting plans for the new galleries and exhibition spaces. Saturday 12 May, 1pm to 5pm Free event, booking essential as spaces are limited. Please contact 02392 72784 or email [email protected] for further information. Family art books and memory boxes Work with a professional artist to create your own multimedia art book or box inspired by Evening events with a difference! the decorative albums and illustrated letters in our collections. Cost £18 -including additional materials (please bring your own photos and images) and Saturday 19th May 7.30-10.30pm refreshments. Booking essential. Please contact 02392 727584 or [email protected] Murder Mystery Join the secret code breakers in wartime Britain and use your detective skills to unmask a spy. Enjoy a three course meal whilst actors from Katchakilla Murder Mystery provide an Saturday 1st December, 1.30pm – 4.30pm evening of entertainment, drama and suspense! Christmas wreath workshop dress optional. Booking essential. Tickets £45pp (includes meal and drinks). Please Back for another year, come and join us once again to And don’t forget that call 02392 727581 or email [email protected] for details. work alongside a professional florist to create a beautiful there are family festive wreath from a range of materials, ideal for your activities in every Saturday 12th May and Saturday 27th October 2012, 8pm to 2am home or to give as a gift. school holiday and Storehouse 11 Paranormal Investigations Cost £18 - including all materials and refreshments. This magnificent Georgian building towers over HMS Victory and could be considered the Booking essential. Please contact 02392 727584 or our new Cabin Club spiritual home of Britain’s navy. Dark Encounters has exclusive access for this investigation, email: [email protected] for under-5s on and our task is to document the paranormal activity of previous occupants and visitors. Can we record the kinetic activity that is supposed to occur in the upper rooms and on the the last Friday of staircases? Join us to find out. each month. Cost £45.00. Booking essential as places are limited. Please see www.darkencounters.co.uk for details.

46 47 Monday 11 June 2012. Visit by Friends of Naval Programme: 1015-1100 Arrive; coffee and tea. Museums to Royal Navy 1100-1145 Talk on RN submarine operations in World War I Submarine Museum, Gosport by Rear Admiral Paul Hoddinott, CB OBE 1145-1245 Divide into groups. Guided tours of exhibits and Following on from the visits by the Friends of all four naval HMS ALLIANCE Museums to the Fleet Air Arm Museum in 2009 and to 1245-1330 Lunch. A two-course lunch will be served; wine and the Royal Marines Museum in 2010, the visit in 2012 is to soft drinks will be available at an additional cost. the Royal Naval Submarine Museum, Haslar Jetty Road, 1330-1430 Continue tours of HMS ALLIANCE and exhibits Gosport PO12 2AS. There will be the opportunity to tour HMS ALLIANCE, a World War 2-era submarine, and to view 1430 onwards depart. many other exhibits that tell the story of the Royal Navy’s The cost for the visit including lunch, tea and coffee is £14.50 Submarine Service since 1901. On-going restoration work to per person. Please send names and cheques (payable to the HMS ALLIANCE will be explained and should not impair or Society of Friends of the RN Submarine Museum) to Commander distract from the enjoyment of your visit. P. Bolas RN at 58 Southleigh Road, Havant, Hampshire PO9 2QJ.

Friends of the Royal Marines Museum Visit to the Royal Marines School of Music Tuesday, 7 February 2012 I am pleased to confirm that another visit to the Royal Marines School of Music will take place on Tuesday, 7 February 2012 and the timetable for the afternoon is as follows: 12:15 Depart from RM Museum in coach to HMS Nelson, Portsmouth 12:30 Arrive at HMS Nelson Unicorn Gate to be met by RMSoM Representative O/C Move to RMSoM for coffee in instructors’ coffee boat 13:00 Presentation on Royal Marines School of Music in the presentation suite 13:30 Tour Gibraltar Block, RMSoM 14:00-15:00 View Concert Band rehearsals 15:00 Depart for RM Museum The cost of the visit is: £10.00 per person to cover the cost of the coach. Please complete the application form below and send it with your payment, to Sharon Spencer, Friends of the RM Museum (SM12), c/o The Royal Marines Museum, Southsea, Hampshire, PO4 9PX ✁I look forward to seeing you there. Sharon I wish to book place(s) @ £10 per person

Name:

Address

Post Code: Tel no:

I enclose a check for £ (made payable to “The Friends of the RM Museum”)

I wish to pay by credit card (Mastercard/Visa)

Start date: Expiry date: 3 digit security code:

Signature Friends of the Royal Marines Museum Visit to the Royal Albert Hall to hear THE MASSED BANDS OF HER MAJESTY’S ROYAL MARINES perform their annual MOUNTBATTEN FESTIVAL OF MUSIC Friday, 13 April 2012 at 7.30pm PRICES HELD - 2012 PRICES SAME AS 2011!! Cost: £45.00 to include return coach and Front Circle Seat £25.00 for making your own way (MFM ticket only) Pick Up Points: Havant (McDonalds) and Royal Marines Museum Public Car Park To attend this very popular musical event, just complete this form and return as soon as possible, with your payment, to Sharon Spencer at the address below: MOUNTBATTEN FESTIVAL OF MUSIC – 13 APRIL 2012: To: Sharon Spencer, Friends of the RM Museum (MFM12), c/o Royal Marines Museum, Southsea, PO4 9PX For more information phone Sharon on: 023 9288 2412 or email: [email protected] ✁ PLEASE ENCLOSE A SAE FOR CONFIRMATION, TIMINGS & TICKETS

I wish to book place(s) @ £45 per person on the coach visit on 13 April 2012 I wish to join the coach at: Havant at 2pm (McDonalds NOT BUS STATION) RM Museum car park at 2.30pm I wish to book ticket(s) @ £25 per person and to travel independently

Name:

Address

Post Code: Tel no:

I enclose a check for £ (made payable to “The Friends of the RM Museum”)

I wish to pay by credit card (Mastercard/Visa)

Start date: Expiry date: 3 digit security code:

Signature

I enclose a SAE for tickets, confirmation and timings

50 8. Publications concerning the activities of the Friends. friends of the MEMBERSHIP 9. Special tours to places of maritime interest as notified in the Bulletins. Royal Naval 10. Admission to lectures in the National Museum of the Royal Navy (special rates for Museum APPLICATION Friends) and those organised by the Society of Nautical Research. and HMS FORM Victory 11. Access to the Library and Archives of the Museum by prior arrangement with the Librarian. BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP 12. Associate Membership of the Royal Maritime Club including use of accommodation The primary purposes of membership of the Friends is to support the Museum and HMS at competitive rates. Friends Membership card required to gain access. Victory both financially and in other ways. In addition members receive specific privileges to assist them in using and expanding their 13. Free admission to the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich. knowledge of the Museum, HMS Victory and the wider aspects of Britain’s Maritime Heritage. Discount of 10% in Gift Shop. Access to Private Members Room. These comprise:

Note: The Membership Card must be produced when claiming free entry or discounts. 1. Free admission to the National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth for the member, spouse plus up to three children. For joint membership the above privileges apply for each member (single mailing).

2. Free admission to HMS Victory for each member (may be a timed ticket system): please check at the Visitor Centre on arrival. 7 3. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is pleased to offer to The Friends of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory a 20% discount on the Site Ticket for Members only on GIFT AID production of their membership card at the Visitor Centre. The Site Ticket is valid for entry to HMS Warrior 1860, It is hoped that all UK tax paying members will help us by completing the Gift Aid National Museum of the Royal Navy and Action Stations for 1 year Declarations on the reverse of the membership forms. As this has only to be declared once (excludes return on special event days) and one entry to HMS Victory, it will enable us to reclaim tax on all donations and subscriptions and thus significantly the Mary Rose Museum and Harbour Tours. increase the value of all your contributions. 4. Free admission to Royal Navy Submarine Museum for member only. 7 5. Free admission to Royal Marines Museum for member only. MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE FUTURE

6. Free admission to the Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeoviltonfor member only. Remembering the Museum in your will costs nothing now, but every gift given this way, whether large or small, will make a difference in the future. 7. Discounts (which are wholly at the discretion of the shops offering them) on purchases excluding books and spirits at: ( a ) The Victory and Museum Shop ( b ) Mary Rose Shop The Friends of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory ( c ) Nauticalia is a Registered Charity No. 269387 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM GIFT AID DECLARATION *I/We wish to join the Friends of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory as: Single Annual Member £20 or more, annually If you pay tax in the United Kingdom, please complete this Gift Aid Declaration. This will Joint Annual Members £25 or more, annually enable the Friends to reclaim income tax on your donation, adding one quarter to its value at no cost to you. Single Life Member £275 or more Joint Life Members £350 or more (Please note: to save administrative costs, income tax will only be reclaimed on donations *Please delete as appropriate totalling £10 or more in any one financial year.)

Full name and title in CAPITALS I declare that all donations made by me to the Friends of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory on or after 6th April 2010 are to be treated as Gift Aid donations. I confirm that I pay income tax or capital gains tax in the United Kingdom at least equal to Address the tax that the Friends of the Royal Naval Museum and HMS Victory will reclaim on my donations. I will advise you if this ceases to be the case or if I change my name or address. Post Code

Signature Signed DATA PROTECTION ACT Solely for the purposes of publicising visits, a joint database has been created by a number of Friends’ organisations in Portsmouth. If youdo not wish your name to be included on Date this database please tick the box. o

Please enclose a cheque for one year’s subscription made payable to the Friends of the RN Museum and HMS Victory or, preferably, use the Banker’s Order Form below. By completing the Gift Aid Declaration overleaf members who pay income tax can increase their subscription to the Friends substantially at no cost to themselves. 7 BANKER’S ORDER MAKING A GIFT IN YOUR WILL Name & Address of I am considering making a gift in my will in support of the friends. Please contact me. Member’s Bank Please pay to the Friends of the RN Museum and HMS Victory (Bank Account No. 10049576 • Sort Code: 16 19 28) Royal Bank of plc, Signed Fareham Branch, 1-2 Westquay House, 20 West Street, Fareham, Hants. PO16 0LH

the sum of £...... on the ...... day of ...... 20 ...... and annually thereafter on the same day until further notice from my account Account No...... Sort Code: ...... Full name and title in CAPITALS friends of the Royal Address Naval Post Code Museum and Signature Date 20 HMS Please sign and return this form to Executive Secretary, Friends of Royal Naval Museum & HMS Victory, Victory

National Museum of the Royal Navy, HM Naval Base (PP66) Portsmouth, Hants PO1 3NH # Scuttlebutt

The Friends of the Royal Naval Museum is a Registered Charity • No. 269387 The National Museum of the Royal Navy and HMS Victory, Portsmouth is a Registered Charity • No.1126283-1

Make a difference in the future: remember the Museum in your will now

Council would like to take this opportunity to encourage all Friends to consider remembering the Friends or the Museum in your will. It costs you nothing now, but every gift, however large or small, will make a difference in the future.

We cannot offer legal advice, but if you would like further information, please contact the Museum on Tel: 023 9272 7567

friends of the Royal Scuttlebutt is edited by: Naval Museum John Roberts and HMS The Friends of the Royal Naval Museum Victory and HMS Victory

National Museum of the Royal Navy, HM Naval Base (PP66), Portsmouth PO1 3NH Tel: 023 9272 7562

Friends direct tel: 023 9225 1589 • E-mail: [email protected] Find us at www.royalnavalmuseum.org

Printed by Studio 6, The Square, Wickham, Hampshire, PO14 5JX • Tel: 01329 832933 • www.studio-6.co.uk