The Official Magazine of TEAM PORTSMOUTH

Rolling Stone visits HMS Victory

Going undergroundwith Bob Powell

Dragon makes a dramatic entranceThe latest news from HMS Victory

Meet the new Naval Base CommanderShoreside speaks to Commodore Tony Radakin

Issue 3 Autumn 2011

JACK SNACKS // MY JOB // HERITAGE // COMPETITION //

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welcome

New NBC Says Hello...I am delighted to take the helm as the new Naval Base Commander. I am very grateful to Commodore Rob for all that he has done in laying the foundations for the naval base to continue to flourish.

These are exaciting times, the Type 45’s are arriving, Queen Elizabeth preparations are now gaining momentum, a new ammunitioning facility is being built and as ever there is the ‘business’ of supporting people and ships on operations across the globe from the Gulf, the horn of Africa, Libya, Afganistan to the Falklands.

Team Portsmouth enables this success. I look forward to playing my role leading and directing our support to opperations. Naval Base Commander PortsmouthCommodore Tony Radakin, RN

...and Commodore Rob bids FarewellYour Editor, Kate, has very kindly allowed me the latitude of saying “Bon Chance” to you all in this my final “Welcome” address. My successor Commodore Tony Radakin will be in post by the time this the third edition of “Shoreside” hits the streets.

I am delighted to say that in my short period as custodian of the naval base, the job has been as interesting, varied and indeed challenging as I had expected.

The pace of change quickens and the base will be busier then ever preparing for the arrival of the last two type 45 Destroyers and the Queen Elizabeth Class Carriers - I envy you all the opportunity of welcoming her arrival.

Finally many thanks for your kindness to the many friends Fiona and I have made while here - (particular thanks to the Guard Service from Fiona for encouraging her on her morning jogs!)

WelcomeIntroductions and Welcome

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Shoreside is published quarterly and is a collaborative publication produced by the member organisations of TEAM PORTSMOUTH. The printing cost of this magazine is generated through advertising

3 Welcome and IntroWelcome to this edition of Shoreside from new Naval Base Commander Commodore Tony Radakin and farewell from Cdre Rob Thompson

6 Look AheadCheck out forthcoming events in and around Portsmouth Naval Base

8 Welcome to HMS DragonShoreside welcomes the latest Type 45

12 Base ReviewLook back at what’s been going on at Portsmouth Naval Base in the past few months

14 Focus on DRSOMeet Bob Lane and the team responsible for reserve or disposal of RN ships

22 Interview Tony Radakin Meet the new Naval Base Commander Commodore Tony Radakin

24 Fleet Snapshot Find out the latest about the Portsmouth Flotilla

26 Focus on Donna SadlerMeet the manager of the Design Support Programme

28 Naval Base InvestmentWork is underway on a new £18m ammunition jetty

30 HMS LancasterA major milestone is reached as crew move back on board after year long refit

32 Carrier UpdateCatch-up with the latest news on theQE Class carriers and the work going on in Portsmouth

34 Going UndergroundOn his retirement Bob Powell talks about a lifetime spent working at PNB

36 HMS VictoryFind out the latest on restoration work on the oldest ship in the Royal Navy

38 Be Prepared with CONDOAssistant Fleet Time Project Manager Dave Marlow shares his experience of CONDO

40 Me & My JobMeet Mal Lewis and Lucy Jones

HMS Dragon first entry into Portsmouth Naval Base The latest Type 45 to make her home in Portsmouth made a dramatic entrance - welcome Dragon. See Page 8

QE Class UpdateRead the latest news on the progress being made with the building of the Queen Elizabeth Class carrier, with updates from Portsmouth including the latest spectacular photos. See pages 32/33

Tony Radakin - New NBC Meet the new Naval Base Commander, Commodore Tony Radakin and read about his first impressions of PNB.

And in the Chit-Chat feature discover more about the man behind the uniform. See Page 22/23

Be prepared with CONDOFind out more about the preparations BAE Systems staff serving overseas make before they travel. See Page 38

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ContentsAutum 2011

contents

On the Cover

On the Cover

On the Cover

On the Cover

EditorKate Thompson kate.thompson@baesystems.com Editor’s Assistant Claire Williamson claire.wiliamson@baesystems.com

CreditsContributors / Magazine

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THIS edition of Shoreside is packed with new faces as key roles with the job of running the naval base change.

New Naval Base Commander, Commodore Tony Radakin offers his first impressions of taking over the running of the base – and he reveals more about the man behind the uniform in our Chit Chat feature on page 23.

We also welcome the new Captain of the Base, Captain Jeremy Rigby (p10) and say hello to HMS Dragon the latest Type 45, as she makes her first entry into Portsmouth.

Catch-up with the latest focus on the QEC Class carrier project (p32), don’t miss the subterranean memories of Bob Powell(P34) and John Hayes looking back over more than half a century spent working at Portsmouth Naval Base.

Kate ThompsonEditor

Photos/ImagesJulian Hickman www.1blueharbour.com RN Fleet Photographic Unit (P) The News, Portsmouth www.defenceimages.mod.uk Steve Wallace and Claire WilliamsonMick Huitson

Design & AdvertisingLance Publishing Ltd 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 512624Sales: Christina Mclean www.lancepublishing.co.uk Printed by Lance Print LtdShoreside is published quarterly. Next copy deadline is end of November 2011All contributions and correspondence should be sent - preferably by email - to: The Editor, Shoreside Magazine, Room 222, Naval Base HQ, Victory Building, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3LS Email: kate.thompson@baesystems.com All contributions are included at the Editor’s discretion. View all back issues of Shoreside at: www.teamportsmouth.com/publicationsFront Cover Image - USS George WH Bush Courtesy of The News Portsmouth

Shoreside Magazine is published quarterly and is a collaborative publication produced by the TEAM PORTSMOUTH.

WINTER FUN AT THE HISTORIC DOCKYARDAs part of Hidden Histories - A Century of Collecting

Get closer to the collections in these sessions to discover some of the fascinating stories behind a century of collecting at the museum. Join the museum’s specialist staff as they give you a unique opportunity to see, hear and even handle selected items from their collections.

Find out more about the tales of action and daring behind our collections of gallantry medals. Learn why Commander Henry Raby was awarded the first VC in 1855 and hear about Jack Mantle, awarded a VC for his spirited defence of HMS Foylebank in 1940.

November 19 at 2.30pm.

Cost £6 per person – including refreshments.

Booking is essential.

For further details please contact 02392 727582 or email: events@nmrn.org.uk

A Victorian Festival of Christmas Back for a 12th year join a wonderland of Victorian stories and characters for A

Victorian Festival of Christmas at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Complete with large Christmas market, festive entertainment, snow in the air and of course all of our world famous attractions!

We also have some fantastic partnership opportunities available for your business. Please have a look through our partnership opportunities document and feel free to get in touch.

For more information on the Victorian Festival of Christmas, visit www.christmasfestival.co.uk

Entry is FREE to service personnel visiting Victory and NMRN and up to four members of their family. All other attractions on site are charged at child price for the service personnel only.

You must produce valid ID to take advantage of this offer.

CRAFT FAIR & WORKSHOPSIN AID of the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Children’s Fund

The BAE Systems Charity Challenge committee are holding a Christmas Craft Fair within the naval base on the following dates to raise funds for The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Children’s Fund:

7 December, 1200 - 1400 Saumarez Room, Victory Building

8 December, 1200 - 1400 Galley Box @ Port Royal Restaurant

This is an ideal opportunity to buy handmade gifts and decorations for Christmas.

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Look Ahead

MILITARY OFFERED 25% DISCOUNT AT SPINNAKER TOWER Portsmouth is world-famous as a hub for naval activity and in recognition of their outstanding dedication, the Spinnaker Tower is offering military personnel and their families 25% discount on entry. All military personnel, whether local or visiting from overseas, can take up the offer simply by presenting a valid warrant card when purchasing tickets.

Paul Mahy, commercial manager at the Spinnaker Tower, commented: “The military plays an important role in our country, and in particular in Portsmouth where the navy has been present for over 800 years.

“We wanted to help repay their hard work by offering them a chance to enjoy a great day out at a fraction of the price, and the amazing birds-eye view of the harbour means they can see the port like they’ve never seen it before.”

At 170 metres tall, the Spinnaker Tower offers breath-taking 350º vistas of the South coast, the Solent and the Isle of Wight and with views stretching up to 23 miles away, the three floor-to-ceiling glass view decks offer visitors a unique view every time.

The Spinnaker Tower is open daily from 10.00am to 6.00pm (excluding Christmas Day). See www.spinnakertower.co.uk or call 02392 857520 to book in advance or to find out more!

PORTSMOUTH BASED TYPE 42 DESTROYER, HMS LIVERPOOL, RETURNS HOME IN NOVEMBER HAVING PLAYED A KEY ROLE IN THE WATERS OFF LIBYAOriginally expected to return to Portsmouth at the beginning of August, as operations evolved, it became clear that Liverpool would be required to remain on task for considerably longer.

In the six months since she sailed, her crew have witnessed the rebel uprising first hand, and on many occasions become directly involved in the protection of the civilian population.

On 10 occasions Liverpool was engaged by enemy fire, and on

many, forced to return fire in self defence, as artillery and rockets fell within one mile of the ship. Encounters with Pro-Gaddafi forces off the coast of Zlitan meant the crew had to be on their guard at all times.

As one town after another fell under the advance of the Rebels, the view from the sea of the fall of Tripoli is something Liverpool’s crew will never forget. Instead of artillery and rocket fire, fireworks lit up the capital’s skyline and jubilant cheers were heard via VHF radio.

The arrival of the former Pro-Gaddafi warship, the Al Hani, marked a momentous occasion as, escorted on her final leg by Liverpool, she entered Tripoli carrying rebels from Benghazi.

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Focus

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HMS DRAGON // FIRST ENTRY

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THE Royal Navy’s latest, new Type 45 Destroyer, HMS Dragon, has sailed into Portsmouth.

The 7,500 tonne vessel was formally accepted from BAE Systems and will now undergo a series of tests before being declared ready for operations. Armed with the world-leading Sea Viper missile defence system, she is able to defend against multiple attacks from even the most sophisticated aircraft and anti-ship missiles, simultaneously approaching from any direction and at supersonic speeds.

Armed Forces Minister Nick Harvey, attended the ceremony to mark HMS Dragon’s acceptance off contract and he said:

“This is another success for the Type 45 programme and further evidence of how we are investing in cutting edge equipment which will form part of Future Force 2020. HMS Dragon is the fourth of a class of six ships which together will form a formidable fleet and will play an important part in allowing the

Royal Navy to protect our interests around the world.”

HMS Dragon, which is affiliated to the city of Cardiff, is one of the six new Type 45 warships being built for the Royal Navy.

Head of Destroyers, Commodore Stephen Braham, said:

“Remarkable progress is being made to date on the Type 45 Programme. Combining an all-electric power and propulsion systems and a world-class weapons system, the capabilities of HMS Dragon, like those of her in-service sister ships HMS Daring, HMS Dauntless, and HMS Diamond, represent a step-change for air defence in the UK, and will ensure that the Royal Navy remains one of the most powerful maritime forces in the world.”

2011 has been a successful year for the Type 45 project with this latest achievement for HMS Dragon coming less than two months after entry into service of HMS Diamond, the third ship in the class.

HMS DRAGON PROUDLYROARS INTO PORTSMOUTH

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Focus

NEW COBCaptain of the Base, Logistics Officer Captain Jeremy Rigby, is settling into to his new role at Portsmouth Naval Base.

He told Shoreside: “I am delighted to return to the home of the Royal Navy. I look forward to being part of the team that will be key in preparing the naval base for the exciting developments coming up including the arrival of the rest of the Type 45 family, the Queen Elizabeth Carrier and how we support the RN going forward to the end of the decade, ” he said.

Captain Rigby joined the Royal Navy as a Midshipman in 1980 before being sponsored to study Scandanavian languages at university in Hull and Sweden.

As a junior officer he served in patrol boats in Northern Ireland and Hong Kong, the helicopter carrier HMS Bulwark, the commissioning ship’s company for the new CVS HMS Ark Royal, the frigates HMS Cleopatra and Hermione and the destroyer HMS Eexter.

On promotion to Captain in 2007 he joined the Joint Supply Chain element of DE&S responsible for development and implementation of Supply Chain policy (JSP 886) including ensuring the orderly recovery of materiel from Iraq and developing supply chain partnering processes with industry.

In 2009 he became Team Leader responsible for the acquisition, storage and delivery of the all the food and fuel to the UK military worldwide, this included responsibility for £800m spend per annum and the establishment and maintenance of a separate supply chain into Afghanistan.

Captain Rigby is a graduate of the Advanced Command and Staff Course, holds a certificate in Company Direction, is a qualified Programme & Project Manager, a Swedish Interpreter, a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Cooks and an Honorary Freeman of the City of London.

He lives near Chichester harbour and his interests include mountaineering, sailing, cooking and languages.

CAPTAIN OF THE BASE // PROFILE

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THE ASSOCIATION OF WRENS HAS ARRIVEDTHE head office of the Association of Wrens has moved to Portsmouth Naval Base and they are looking forward to working alongside the Royal Naval Association.

This is a significant change from the carbon-filled fumes of Vauxhall Bridge Road, to the second floor of Semaphore Tower, with its panoramic harbour view and sea breezes.

The General Secretary oversees the administration of over 5,500 members of the Association and this includes RN female personnel who are currently serving or have retired.

Comment is occasionally made regarding the ‘mix’ of either blue, red, or gold badge wearers, however it seems that whatever the age, those sharing a common interest in the Royal Navy, do get on.

This was evident at the 90th Anniversary Service on 13

November 2010 held in the naval church of St Martin-in-the-Fields with female ‘volunteer’ ushers from the likes of FOST Plymouth, the RN PT School, HMS ILLUSTRIOUS, HMS NELSON and RAF Halton, plus five ‘models’ from HMS HERON for the ‘Uniforms Through the Decades’ display.

Members keep in touch via the website www.wrens.org.uk and their magazine The Wren (a complimentary issue can be sent to those eligible). They contribute to many military and community publications and welcome opportunities to assist with research projects and media productions.

Open days are being planned – if you are an ex-Wren or a serving RN woman working in the naval base and you would like to attend, please contact the secretary 02392 725141 office@wrens.org.uk Room 215 Semaphore Tower (PP70) H.M Naval Base Portsmouth PO1 3LT.

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SNAPSHOT // NAVAL BASE UPDATE Review

ROYAL NAVY PLAYS HOST TO THE ARMY RADIO

PORTSMOUTH Naval Base has played host to a ‘landlubber’ from the Army world.

Liz Mullen, of the Army’s radio service, Garrison FM, paid a visit to record two programmes designed to give her listeners an insight into what goes on at the base.

Seen here interrogating Captain Jerry Kyd, Commanding Officer of HMS Illustrious, (pictured) Liz also met up with a wide variety of personnel, both uniformed and from BAE Systems, during her time in Portsmouth.

From the Queen’s Harbour Master to a young flautist at the Royal Marines School of Music, it was a real crash course on life at a modern-day naval base.

Liz, who joined Garrison FM four years ago from the BBC and whose media career began as a newspaper journalist, said she’d spent a fascinating day at PNB.

“I’ve learned so much in a short time,” she told Shoreside. “And I’ll never forget my introduction to

the new carrier, in the company of Paul Bowsher.

“The sheer size of it took my breath away - and yet this is only a slice or two of the gigantic ship that she will eventually become. I really enjoyed my time on the base and was surprised not to be treated as an interloper and made to walk the plank.

“Mind you, this was almost a homecoming for Garrison FM, as our MD, Mark Page, piloted a very successful Navy Radio here a few years back.”

The HMNB Portsmouth editions of Meet the Services were broadcast on October 7 and 15. Garrison FM can be listened to online at garrisonfm.com

NAVAL BASE GYM GETS SPLASH OF COLOURINSTEAD of being covered in the blood, sweat and tears of exercising sailors, the walls of HMS Nelson gym at Portsmouth Naval Base are now flooded with colour - from the spray paint of a local graffiti artist.

Fark – the artist’s street name – has spent several days at the base to decorate the inside of the gym, which used to have bare, white walls, with the urban art at the invitation of Chief Petty Officer Physical Trainer Clayton Patilla. And as part of Portsmouth City Council’s Passport to Success scheme, Fark was also given a helping hand by local schoolchildren who came in to paint the walls with inspirational messages and pictures.

Under this scheme children from across the city can learn about success stories and local businesses and get involved with a number of activities.

Leading Physical Trainer (LPT) Paddy Stephens said: “I never thought I would be stood watching people spray paint a military gym. It’s brilliant – it was amazing to see the kids come in and get on with it.

“It’s a big community initiative for us – and from a Royal Navy perspective that is what we at the gym wanted to do. For someone like myself, I look at this place like it’s my home so it’s nice for them to come in to do this for us.”

ROLLING STONE ROCKS UP AT VICTORYROCK star Keith Richards is more used to being snapped on the stage of international arenas and stadiums, but he kindly took time out to pose for a photo on the gangway of HMS Victory as he visited Portsmouth Historic Dockyard with his family.

A founding member of The Rolling Stones, Keith Richards, named as the “10th great guitarist of all time” (Rolling Stone Magazine, 2003) said he had a brilliant time visiting Nelson’s flagship and was keen to go onboard having remembered seeing it on a school trip.

Spokeswoman for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Melissa Gerbaldi said: “There was a real buzz on the site once we knew that he was paying us a visit. It’s not every day you have the

chance to meet a rock legend and he was very charming and down to earth with a real interest in all the attractions we have within the Historic Dockyard.”

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BASIN RUN 2011THIS year’s two-mile Basin Run in aid of The Rowans Hospice was a great success and so far £815.69 has been raised for the charity that helps to improve the lives of those living with cancer and other life-limiting diseases.

Around 50 runners took part with a number of fancy dress outfits such as a banana, 60’s costumes, shiny wigs, a dark angel, two maids and men in dresses.

Special mentions must go to PC Rob Tanner who ran in his motorcycle leathers and helmet and Sean Collins, Engineering Legal and Regulatory Manager for BAE Systems, who ran last minute in his suit while taking part in a telephone conference call. The Emergency Response

Team once again showed their commitment to the event by running the whole route in their breathing apparatus.

The winners were presented with their trophies by former Naval Base Commander, Commodore Rob Thompson and The Rowans Hospice representative Amanda Mahoney. The winners were as follows:

Fastest Male: Steve Farries (10m 20s) Fastest

Female: Bronwyn Dean (13m 51s) Fastest

Male over 40: Ken Ferrett (10m 49s) Fastest

Female over 40: Yvie Gilding (15m 51s)

Best Fancy Dress went to a gentleman

dressed in a black and white stripped dress

with matching hat and fishnet tights

Best Group Fancy Dress went to a trio

from Serco Marine Services dressed as

Bananaman, Wally Woman and an Avatar

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Focus DRSO // SHIP DISPOSAL

Bob’s the world’s leading expert when it comes to disposing of ships

As the man charged with preparing warships before they are placed in reserve or handed to the Disposal Services Authority (DSA) to be disposed of, Bob Lane has heard every kind of outlandish scheme for their future use.

Everything from floating hotels and casinos to a request from a young artist to turn a warship into a piece of art has come through his office and nothing surprises him.

“I’ve met some really colourful people over the years – I even had one man who used to turn up wearing a gun.”

“The ideas that people have for these ships are many and varied everything from hotels and hostels to nightclubs – but with any proposal the DSA need clarity,” he said.

While some of the schemes for the future life of warships may seem far fetched, the reality of preparing them for disposal is a serious business.

Bob and his Disposal and Reserve Ships Organisation (DRSO) team ensures that every ship being prepared for re-use or

recycling leaves Portsmouth in the best possible environmentally friendly state by going through a vigorous inspection, removal, surveying and cleaning process. He was instrumental in developing and introducing ‘green passports’ for ex-Royal Naval ships. The Green Passport identifies any potential environmental hazards remaining on board at disposal.

He has also worked closely with the DSA and Environment Agency to formulate the MOD’s policy on ships disposal. Every ship that comes to the end of its useful life with the Royal Navy goes through this process.

Selling to other governments for continued military use is usually the first option that is considered when the DSA is tasked with disposing of a warship. Most recently, RFA Largs Bay one of the Bay class landing ship dock that served with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary from 2006 to 2011, was sold to the Royal Australian Navy If selling the ship to another government is not possible, then the DSA will usually market them commercially, either for continued use in a non-military capacity, or for recycling.

Bob and his team are sensitive to the feelings of crew members as they leave a ship for the last time and years of experience mean they can help to make the process as painless as possible.

“You are like an undertaker; you have to deal with people in a professional way with tact and sensitivity.

“A great deal of work goes into the handover and we inspect every area of a ship so that we know exactly what we are dealing with,” he said.

With the decommissioning of Ark Royal, Bob revealed there had been a huge amount of interest in the ship.

Over 100 people from all over the world visited Ark Royal as potential buyers.

“I sat down with all of them and went through the technical specification. Bids went forward to the evaluation committee in August,” he said.

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Car Sharing Could Save You Hundreds of PoundsBACK in 1999 petrol was only 70 pence per litre, in 1993 it was 46 pence per litre and in 1983 it was just 37 pence per litre - makes you wish for the old days doesn’t it?

Well the good news is you can have petrol at those prices again by joining www.liftshare.org (national database) or www.hantscarshare.com (the local database).

Sharing your car with one person will give you savings equivalent to 1999 prices, two people equals 1993 prices and three people will take you back to the rock bottom prices of 1983.

It is really easy to do - just go to the websites above. It is free to register and if you enter your postcode and the postcode of where you want to go, it brings up profiles of people willing to car share.

You don’t even need to own a car to take part, just be willing to share the cost of the petrol

Here are some of the benefits:

• Reduced travel costs. The typical car sharer saves hundreds of pounds a year

• Cutting congestion and pollution – helps to meet the ‘Pledge a Tonne’ target for BAE Systems employees

• Possibly cheaper insurance due to less mileage on your vehicle

• Car sharers have reduced stress. By sharing the driving you are halving the stresses of driving

If you have never tried car sharing, then now is the opportunity to give it a try, you never know, you might even enjoy it.

ENVIRONMENT // ENERGY SAVINGS // RECYCLE

DRSO stands for Disposal and Reserve Ships Organisation. Bob Lane is recognised as a subject matter expert in preparing ships for disposal. His expertise is sought across the globe.

At a Glance

COMMISSIONED into the Royal Navy 150 years ago, HMS Warrior is still revealing secrets and a new BBC One TV show was there to record the final part of her restoration - a three-year refurbishment of the sick berth which cost £60,000. HMS Warrior 1860 saw presenters Dan Snow and Sian Williams broadcast live from the ship, as they brought history to life for ‘National Treasures Live’.

The sick bay is the final restoration project that has been overseen by Warrior’s archivist Andrew Baines. A detailed plan of the ship, drawn by 14 year-old Midshipman Murray showing the ship down to the smallest detail has been crucial to the restoration and bringing the ship back to life for visitors to the Historic Dockyard.

Andrew Baines commented: “This has been an enormously complicated project, needing thousands of hours of research. In undertaking the sick berth restoration we have remained faithful to the ethos established by the Hartlepool restoration team – that something only goes on display if we can guarantee that it was on board, and know exactly what it looked like.

“One of the wonderful things about my job is that it covers so many different areas of research – one day I can be looking into what materials were appropriate to the mattresses used on board, and another it might be how quickly a naval surgeon could amputate a leg. To see the project complete will be tremendously satisfying for all of us on Warrior, and will allow us to show our visitors another fascinating aspect of life at sea in Queen Victoria’s navy.”

HISTORIC DOCKYARD // WARRIOR 150th ANNIVERSARYReview

BBC’s National Treasures Live officially opens the Sick Berth on board HMS Warrior 1860

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Warrior’s original operating table, missing its original glass top, was still in-situ, but covered in a century’s worth of grime and paint. This has been carefully cleaned and conserved, and a new glass top, 1 inch thick, has been sourced from the local firm of Atkinson’s Glass of Portchester.

Other local firms have been involved in the project: The wrought iron cots seamen would have been placed in whilst ill have been recreated by local blacksmith Peter Clutterbuck, using original techniques. The ship’s dispensary, where over 90 medicines were housed, has been reproduced by the furniture makers Reekie’s of Gosport.

It has also proved necessary to go further afield – horse hair mattresses to the original specification have been manufactured by Britain’s oldest mattress manufacturer, and supplier to the Queen, Hypnos, whilst the material used in the sick berth’s sheets has been supplied by the National Trust’s Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire, made on machines that were operating in 1860.

Replicas of the specialist medicine bottles have been manufactured by glass-blowers Soham Scientific. Warrior carried many medicines that are still in use today, such as tincture of squill, which is still used in cough medicines, alongside other less well known chemicals such as Croton oil, which was used by the US Navy in WW2 to fuel torpedoes!

Factfile

CELEBRATIONS were held aboard HMS Warrior to mark 150 years since the warship was commissioned into the Royal Navy.

The world’s first iron-hulled, armour-plated warship powered by steam, Warrior, has become a major tourist attraction since she came to Portsmouth in 1987.

To mark the major milestone, a celebration cake was cut by the ship’s oldest volunteer Margot Bastable, 91, and Elodie Kerr, the two-year-old daughter of the ship’s event manager.

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A ROYALguest dropped in on HMS Diamond to catch up with her progress towards her maiden deployment.

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal arrived by helicopter on the new Type 45 destroyer off Plymouth to witness the ship’s preparations for an arduous training package known as BOST - Basic Operational Sea Training

HRH enjoyed a tour of the ship and saw the 190 sailors on board conducting their daily activities.

Diamond’s Commanding Officer, Commander Ian Clarke, said: “Her Royal Highness has seen Diamond progress, having visited during build in Glasgow, last year in trials and now as we commence operational sea training, preparing to deploy in 2012.”

The Princess saw activities on the bridge, the sickbay, lunch preparations in the galley, the ship control centre, and warfare serials in the operations room. She also enjoyed some relaxation with the crew in their respective messes.

She rounded off her visit by presenting medals to several crew members including a long service and good conduct award to Leading Regulator Howard Harris. He said: “It was an honour to receive my medal for good conduct from Her Royal Highness and shows you that when you work hard you do get rewarded. It’s just one of the things I like about the Royal Navy.”

DIAMOND VISIT FOR PRINCESS ROYAL

Visit

“As I reflect on the opportunities afforded Fiona and I over the last 34 months, my abiding memory will be the openness and friendliness of all who work in the base. I was not sure what “Team Portsmouth” was all about when I arrived but I think I can sum it up by the willingness of people “to go the extra mile” for others,” said Commodore Rob Thompson.

TEAM Portsmouth staff lined the roads of the naval base to say farewell to Commodore Rob Thompson on his final day in charge of Portsmouth Naval Base.

The day started with the arrival of the new Naval Base Commander, Commodore Tony Radakin and later that morning, staff at the naval base ensured Cdre Thompson made a dramatic exit.

A six tonne army truck had been laid on to take him on a final tour of the base – and the Royal Marine band provided a fanfare for his final journey.

Cdre Thompson was stepping down after three years as commander, having helped to secure the base’s future as the home of the navy’s new QE Class aircraft carriers.

He told a crowd outside Victory Building: “I have fond memories and some over-generous gifts.”

DURING their three years at Portsmouth Naval Base, Commodore Thompson and his wife Fiona were able to indulge their passion for gardening in the mature grounds of Spithead House.

Many meals were graced by vegetables grown as a result of their green fingers and Fiona spent many hours making delicious jams and pickles.

But her greatest delight has been to successfully grow a giant pumpkin that weighs nearly NINE stone.

“We were so excited when we first saw it growing by the wall and we couldn’t believe it as it got larger and larger.

“We’ve done really well with the veg patch and the wildlife never ceases to amaze from foxes to woodcocks and a sparrow hawk that frequently visits,” she said.

Fiona said she would really miss the people at the naval base who had made such a difference to the daily life of the Commodore and herself.

“It has been a very enjoyable three years and it has simply flown past.

“I hope the next wife of the Naval Base Commander enjoys it as much as I have.

“Thank you all and good luck,” said Fiona.

NAVAL BASE PEOPLE // FAREWELLReview

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Commodore Thompson and his wife Fionasay farewell

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I shall miss the guards at all the gates – they are so cheery and always wish me luck on my early morning runs.

VISION 2020 // TECHNOLOGY // INNOVATION // COST SAVINGSFocus SMALL BOATS REPAIR & DESIGN //

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The people here are really proud of what they are doing and what they have achieved

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BY ANYONE’S standards, the turn-around of fortunes at the Small Boats Centre of Excellence has been a real success story.

And the good news is the business continues to go from strength to strength.

Project Pegasus was the name given to the operation to move the well established boat building firm from Portchester to a modern state-of-the-art facility within Portsmouth Naval Base.

The move also meant the company would come under the BAE Surface Ships Support organisation.

While the business had a great reputation for design and manufacturing of small craft, it was operating at a considerable loss and there were question marks over its viability.

“When I came in as Head of Integrated Operations Team – Commercial and Halmatic - there were serious issues facing the company and we have all worked really hard to address them,” said Paul Godsell.

Back in 2009, the Small Boats business had challenges in the areas of quality, delivery and reducing overheads.

Now the Small Boats workforce has successfully turned the negatives into positives and they are continuing to develop products and services.

“The people here are really proud of what they are doing and what they have achieved.

“They have turned a loss into a profit and successfully reduced the lead time to the customer, while significantly improving the safety record,” he said

The MOD say they are the only vendor to deliver boats to them consistently on time and they now have the best in fleet record on Operational Defects.

“There has been a great deal of change and the workforce has had to cope with that. There is a lot more process in what we do but that has enabled us to improve our safety record and allowed us to produce a more professional product,” he said.

For the future, the Small Boats team are looking to further grow what they do.

Ben Mason, Refit & Repair Project Manager, explained: “We are going to be developing the through life management of boats in order to improve the current solutions that we offer the customer.”

And there are opportunities developing to do more joint project work with the MOD.

“There is a far greater synergy between ourselves and the customer; the MOD is asking industry to start managing some of its workload that has traditionally crossed over between both of us.

“And we are happy to develop in that way and offer the customer a “one stop shop” delivering the product on time, to cost and that meets the customers quality and safety standard,” said Paul.

Future is bright forsmall boats

Shoreside

COMMODORE TONY RADAKIN // NEW NBC // RNFeature

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New CommodoreTakes the Helmat PNB

TonyIT’S BEEN a busy time for Commodore Tony Radakin as he takes over as Commander of Portsmouth Naval Base.

In the space of a matter of days, the base has been given the go-ahead to start survey work to dredge Portsmouth Harbour and reinforce jetties in readiness for the arrival of the first new QE Class carrier in 2016, BAE Systems was announced as the preferred bidder for £30m contract to look after HMS Victory for the next 10 years and Commodore Radakin accompanied the Princess Royal as she paid a flying visit to HMS Diamond while she prepares for deployment.

He told Shoreside: “All this has happened in the first few days of my taking over and it illustrates what a vibrant place Portsmouth Naval Base is.

“It is a huge privilege to be in command of somewhere that has such a broad span of activity and such an amazing history.

“And I am very aware of the important place the naval base has in the city as a whole. I was in a shop just recently and was asked what job I do and when I explained, I was told that the people of Portsmouth take a great interest in the Royal Navy – our link with the city is manifest and real.”

In the longer term with the Type 45s and new carriers making it their home, the future for the base seems more assured than ever.

“I’m not wanting to stir old rivalries when I say Portsmouth is the historic home of the Royal Navy and with the Type 45’s being based here and the arrival of the new carriers from 2016, this cements more than ever the link between Portsmouth and the Royal Navy,” he said.

Against the backdrop of all this frenetic activity at the base, Cdre Radakin said it was important not to lose sight of the key purpose for everyone.

“We always have to remind ourselves it is the ships and their success on operations that has to take precedence – and if we can do that better or faster then we must,” he said.

Cdre Radakin said he was keenly aware of the transition facing those whose roles had been made redundant and he highlighted the need to fully acknowledge their contribution. Having worked with the Americans in Iraq, he said he had learnt an important lesson from them.

“We have to say thank you for what people have done and the contribution they have made.

“One of the things that impressed me about working with the Americans was how good they are at saying thank you to people for their service and the support of their families in enabling that service,” he said.

Highlighting how his approach may differ from the previous Naval Base Commander, Commodore Rob Thompson, Cdre Radakin

offered this insight.

“I am lucky in the past to have had sea command – and I come at this from a user end.

“There is huge affection for Rob Thompson who was an esteemed engineer and I am very fortunate to follow him. Naturally engineers are interested in broken things and fixing them – I come from things from an operator’s perspective and I’m interested in using them,” he said.

A recent posting was to the Gulf working with the US Command to re-establish the Iraqi navy.

“The Iraqi Navy was decimated in Gulf War 1 and they have had to rebuild their navy and naval base since 2003.

“They have been able to grow a navy of people, ships and a naval base to support the ships.

“All this has been done so they can eventually allow the coalition support to go away to arms length and they can look after their waters and critical oil revenue,” he said.

Married to Louise who is a solicitor and notary public, Cdre Radakin is dad to four sons aged from five to 13.

“They are very excited by my new job. The other day when I was asked ‘what did you do today daddy?’ - I was able to tell them how

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CHIT CHAT Questions you've always wanted to ask Which living person do you most admire?Nelson Mandela because of his courage, tenacity and humility. The story of a fighter, captive and then statesman - against the backdrop of apartheid - will resonate beyond our lives.

What is your favourite book? - and what are you reading right now?George Orwell’s ‘Inside the whale’ and other essays. And I am currently reading ‘Losing Small Wars – British Military Failure in Iraq and Afghanistan’ by Frank Ledwidge. This is a bit chilling but it is compelling and provocative.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

I enjoy a gin and tonic and all too frequently Pringles as well.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?Rachel Weisz; President Obama, Christopher Hitchens, Tony Blair, Liz Hurley and Ian Hislop, which I think would be both fascinating and fun.

How do you relax?A mix of playing kickaround football and rugby as well as canoeing and mountain biking with my family (four boys aged between five and 13).

What was your favourite toy?

A football, I dreamed of playing for Bristol City and was on the cusp of school boy forum for the club.

What was the first album you ever bought?Stranglers: No More Heroes, which I am reasonably proud of for its ‘edginess’. Less cool is another buy, which was Adam and the Ants - Stand and Deliver.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?Be yourself and do the things you most enjoy. Don’t ‘follow the money’ as a way to live your life.

At a GlanceCommodore Tony Radakin joined the Royal Navy in 1985 as a university cadet. After passing out of Dartmouth, he read law at Southampton University.

Commissioned in 1990, he has served on a variety of ships (patrol vessels, minehunters, frigates, destroyers) as an Officer of the Watch, Navigating Officer and Operations

Officer. He commanded HMS Blazer (1993/95) HMS Norfolk (2002/04) and the Naval Transition Team in Iraq (2006/07). He was awarded a Bronze Star medal by the United States Government following his tour.

He represented the Royal Navy at squash and also enjoys sailing, golf and skiing.

I travelled with the Princess Royal on a Lynx helicopter to a brand new Type 45. I tend to avoid telling them about meetings or finance, as you can see them thinking ‘gosh’ that sounds really dull, daddy!” he said.

While the next few months will see him gaining a greater understanding of the base and how it operates, Cdre Radakin is already impressed with the partnership approach of Team Portsmouth.

“I will be setting my priorities in the New Year but in broad terms, they will be to focus on outcomes.

“This is something the base does very well but I’m keen to re-energise that commitment. Team Portsmouth is key to what we do and how we can work together with the same aims.

“In order to get ships out on operations and to maintain our safety record - which is very good but we can’t be complacent about it - we need to remember Team Portsmouth is the way to deliver that,” he said.

Cdre Radakin said he was keen to get out and about from his office– and he plans to travel by bike around the base whenever possible.

“You can stop and speak to people on a bike – you’re not as cut off as you are in a car.

“So if you see a middle aged man on a bike – don’t be surprised if it’s me,” he said.

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SNAPSHOT // PORTSMOUTH FLOTILLA UPDATE Review

LIBYA MISSION FOR HMS YORK

HMS York sailed from Portsmouth bound for the coast of Libya where she will enforce United Nations Security Resolutions.

The Type-42 destroyer takes over the role from sister ship HMS Liverpool which has been operating in the region for six months.

HMS York will work with other NATO nations off the Libyan coast and stand by to conduct contingency operations in the Mediterranean.

The ship previously conducted operations off Libya for two weeks in

March, delivering humanitarian aid to Benghazi and evacuating 43 people to safety in Malta. She then went on to conduct security patrols in the South Atlantic, returning to the UK in July.

Her Commanding Officer, Commander Rex Cox, said: “I am immensely proud of my ship’s company who have achieved a remarkable effort in preparing the ship for operations in very short order.

“We deploy to the Mediterranean focused on the mission ahead and supported as always by our families and friends who remain firmly in our thoughts.”

FRESH FROM FRONTLINE ACTION IN LIBYA, HMS BROCKLESBY SAILS INTO LONDONHMS Brocklesby sailed into London in support of the international WorldSkills 2011 competition and conference taking place at ExCel, after keeping vital shipping lanes off Libya clear of mines.

WorldSkills is a major vocational training, skills and recruitment event, allowing international competitors and delegates to pit their wits against one another across a range of practical disciplines.

HMS Brocklesby deployed in January to join one of the Standing Groups which are forward deployed as part of NATO’s Rapid Reaction Force.

As events unfolded in North Africa, Brocklesby was re-deployed to support NATO operations enforcing the UN Security Council resolutions off Libya on Operations Unified Protector and Ellamy.

The ship’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander James Byron, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be able to bring HMS Brocklesby to London in support of WorldSkills.

“It really doesn’t matter what job you are in, where it is based or what it is doing, training and accrued skills are everything. But what is most important is when it comes to putting those skills into action. When the theory, training and exercising stops and the operations start, we have to know that we’re up to the mark.

“And, with our recent return from the frontline off Libya, I can undoubtedly say that my crew not only proved themselves completely, but that they excelled.”

“The coastguard was full of praise for the ship’s medical team and sent them a special message of thanks once the casualty was safely transferred to hospital.”

MINEHUNTER RETURNS AFTER THREE YEARS AWAYPORTSMOUTH-based minehunter HMS Chiddingfold has returned home from the Arabian Gulf where she spent three years on security patrols.

The vessel operated out of Bahrain as part of the UK’s commitment to maintain a mine countermeasures presence in the region.

As well as conducting security operations, HMS Chiddingfold carried out regular training with the UK’s regional partners and coalition nations. Her crew of 45 changed approximately every six months - the last taking over in January.

One of the crew’s highlights was a visit to Iraq in April with fellow minehunter HMS Grimsby. The visit to the southern Iraqi Naval Base in Umm Qasr was of particular interest to Chiddingfold’s Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Charles Maynard and Operations Officer Lieutenant Pete Davis. They both served in Iraq in

2006 and 2008 respectively, providing specialist Naval training to the Iraqi Navy and marines. During the two-day visit they met up with many of the Iraqi sailors they mentored, and saw the significant strides the Iraqi Navy has made in recent years.

Lt Cdr Maynard said: “It was wonderful to return to Iraq and to see the progress that is being made by the Iraqi Navy. To take Chiddingfold to Umm Qasr was a real privilege for us all and for Pete and myself to be able to meet with many of the officers and sailors that we previously served alongside was very special. There is a genuine and lasting bond between the Iraqi Navy and the Royal Navy that goes back many years and so to be able to continue that friendship during our visit here has been really important.”

The crew varies from young sailors who will be sailing for their first deployment outside of UK waters to the more experienced sea dogs who are in their 22nd year of service and know the region well.

FIRST DEPLOYMENT ON NAVY WARSHIP FOR TWO SAILORS THERE may be a seventeen year age gap between them but for two sailors on board HMS Edinburgh, currently serving in the South Atlantic, it is the first time either of them have ever been to sea.

Able Seaman Brett Billson from Wantage in Oxfordshire, decided to join the Royal Navy at the age of 36 in October 2010, six months after 20-year-old Able Seaman Nicholas ‘Ronnie’ Barker from Hull.

Both are now enjoying their first deployment on board the Portsmouth-based Type-42 Destroyer, nick-named ‘The Fortress of the Sea’, which left the UK in May for a seven-month patrol of the South Atlantic and the Falkland Islands.

Although he enjoyed his previous job working for an opticians in Abingdon, Brett joined up in a bid to challenge himself both physically and mentally.

Brett, said: “I’m an old dog learning new tricks. I wanted a career not just a job and the Royal Navy has given me a sense of achievement I hadn’t had before.

Nicholas is one of the on-board

stewards who look after the officers’ accommodation, work in the wardroom bar and assist with functions for visiting foreign dignitaries and other VIPs. Nicholas, said: “I would recommend anyone to join the Royal Navy as it is a great career with many opportunities. It is also a great way to see the world in a different way and visit places you wouldn’t usually get the opportunity to go to.”

.

ROYAL NAVY FLEXES HUNTER-KILLER MUSCLES IN THE GULFROYAL Navy fliers kept their submarine-hunting skills fresh during an exercise with a Portsmouth-based warship in the Gulf.

HMS St Albans, which is on a six-month operational tour of the region, provided the platform for a Merlin helicopter to fly up and search the seas below for enemy boats.

The aircraft from 829 Naval Air Squadron are designed to give the Navy the best chance of finding submarines – and key lessons were learned during the exercise.

A Royal Navy submarine, HMS Turbulent, played the role of the enemy and cleverly simulated the operating patterns of a wide range of submarines in order to provide as stern yet realistic challenge as possible.

Commander Tom Sharpe, Commanding Officer of HMS St Albans, said: “This was an invaluable period of training that fine-tuned our anti-submarine tactics.

“The lessons learnt here will further enhance our ability to protect the vital shipping routes in the Middle East and serve as a reminder to all that we must ensure that hard earned anti-submarine warfare skills are not allowed to perish.

“An exercise such as this, flanked as it was by counter-piracy operations and search and rescue tasking and interspersed with live operations is indicative of how flexible a frigate has to be on a deployment such as this.”

HMS St Albans is deployed in the Middle East region as part of the UK Maritime Component Commander’s (UKMCC) task force. The 4,900 tonne Type-23 frigate will be patrolling busy shipping lanes and providing security for the region alongside other coalition forces.

Her work will include counter-terrorism and anti-piracy operations, exercises and operations with regional naval forces and wider regional engagement to support and promote the UK’s interests in the area.

The ship, nicknamed ‘The Saint’, and her embarked helicopter honed their skills and fine tuned their equipment prior to the exercise so that they could operate in this unique and challenging oceanographic environment.

HMS St Albans and her Merlin helicopter provide a powerful team that is at the cutting edge of this often unspoken sphere of warfare in both equipment and tactics. Ship and helicopter alike carry a range of sensors and weapons, to deter or, if necessary, destroy.

Images

Top: The CO of HMS St Albans, Commander Tom Sharpe, is winched down on to HMS Turbulent to talk tactics.

Below: HMS Turbulent surfaced sails past HMS St Albans, knowing that the Merlin helicopter is back onboard.

ICE PATROL SHIP BEEFS UP FOR DEPLOYMENTTHE Royal Navy’s ice patrol ship HMS Protector has completed a further step in her transformation process in preparation for her Antarctic deployment in November.

The Portsmouth-based ship has been fitted with a Multi-Beam Echo Sounder for hydrographic surveys, Pacific 22 sea boats and cradles, a number of communication antennae and the Fleet navigation system – Warship Electronic Chart Display Information (WECDIS).

Most of the work was completed by contractors but the ship’s company has also been instrumental in taking on tasks to ensure that HMS Protector remains on track for her winter deployment.

Following further sea training and an upgrade to the ship’s cranes in Germany over the next few weeks, the ice-breaker will complete her sea trials

and begin Operational Sea Training (OST) in Devonport and the Western South Coast Exercise areas.

OST is designed to test the capability of the ship and her company across a range of disciplines, and once achieved the ship will be declared fully deployable for Antarctica – one of the most challenging environments in the world

Commanding Officer of HMS Protector Captain Peter Sparkes said: “The achievements of my ship’s company thus far have been singularly impressive, the rapid progress made over the last three months is a testament to their drive, determination and professionalism; I couldn’t be more proud of them. We now look forward to the challenges of OST and ultimately our head-mark, deploying to Antarctica as the Royal Navy’s Ice Patrol Vessel.”

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ROYAL NAVY OPERATIONS NETS £51,000 FINE FOR FISHING TRAWLERTHE owner and master of a Dutch fishing vessel which had deliberately adapted its nets in order to catch hundreds of baby fish has been fined £51,000 after they were caught by a Royal Navy patrol ship.

HMS Severn’s boarding team made a tactical approach during the early hours of the morning, surprising the fisherman on board the trawler Hanny, which was around 150 nautical miles away from the British Coast in the North Sea.

First Lieutenant, Lieutenant Chris Carter, who was accompanied by a Dutch Fisheries Inspector and Able Seaman (Logistician) Sulayman Marong, led the team on board and quickly discovered both fishing nets had been deliberately constricted or ‘blinded’.

The Commanding Officer of HMS Severn, Lieutenant Commander Marcus Hember said: “The illegal use of blinded nets within the fragile

fisheries of the United Kingdom is extremely irresponsible and risks the livelihood of hundreds of fishermen who are reliant on their sustainability.

“These are extremely difficult offences to detect, and unless we are able to catch offenders red-handed impossible to prove. Successful prosecutions such as this one are only possible using the advanced tactical maritime security skills that the Royal Navy is able to bring to the Fishery Protection task; I am very proud of all my team for their hard work and dedication.”

HMS Severn has conducted 240 boardings so far in 2011, of which 110 have resulted in the detection of infringements of EU or UK law. In 2010 Severn detained seven fishing vessels into port for further investigation and this is the third to be detained in 2011. The ship visited Newcastle for three days after the patrol and participated in the Sunderland Air Show. The ship is one of three sister patrol vessels in the Portsmouth-based Fishery Protection Squadron.

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Focus

DONNADESIGNSA BRIGHTFUTURE

DESIGN SUPPORT // AN APPRENTICE STORY

DONNA Sadler is currently the Design Support Programme Manager, delivering the Surface Ship Design Support Alliance (SS-DSA) contract - a working alliance between BAE Surface Ships, Babcock Integrated Technology and the MOD.

The Scope of the Design Support Alliance is to provide Mature Design Solutions (MDS) and support activities including Surface Weapons Systems Engineer (SWSE) field support, Safety & Environmental activities to both Capital Ship-In Service Support (CS-ISS) Platforms and Surface Combatants Mine Patrol Hydrographic (MPH) Directorates.

Other activities include:

• Aviation & Munitions support

• Combat Systems Integration

Management of a diverse team of engineers, project managers and technicians to deliver a vital service to the Royal Navy and the security of the UK

APPRENTICESHIP

Donna joined the dockyard in September 1994 on a four year MOD apprenticeship as a Marine Engineering Apprentice and enjoyed a variety of activities during this time including afloat working, refrigeration and dockside services. She excelled in this role and was the first Female Apprentice to win the MOD Apprentice of the Year award.

Starting on her tools has served her well as she has risen through the company and Donna looks back on her time as an apprentice with great affection.

“I would thoroughly recommend an engineering apprenticeship to anyone. You’re learning a trade, getting an education and being paid as well! I’ve been in the dock bottom in the middle of winter under an Aircraft Carrier and on board a number of T42 Destroyers doing diesel refits and loving every minute of it.

It’s a great way of learning “hands-on” and you are working with people who have a wealth of experience to share,” said Donna,

“There have been a number of wonderful role models that have supported me in my career”.

“I’ve been really fortunate with the people I have worked with as so many of them have shared their knowledge with me, in particular I owe a great deal

to Alan Daysh MBE who was an outstanding mentor.

EDUCATION

Donna would be the first to admit that school never really suited her – and she was happy to move on at the first opportunity.

“I didn’t do particularly well at school and it was only when I did work experience at Vosper Thornycroft and used their AutoCAD computer design system, that I found something I really enjoyed,”

“I had a clear idea of what I wanted to do and couldn’t wait to get started,” explained Donna

Looking at her now as she heads up the Design Management Services team, it’s hard to believe she struggled at school.

Another of her claims to fame was being the first team captain on the pilot episode of TV’s Scrapheap Challenge (or Scrapheap as it was called then).

From her apprenticeship, Donna has gone on to do 12 years of further study including an BEng Hons degree in Mechanical Design and is currently in the final year of a Masters degree in Engineering & Management, Business Strategy and Innovation at Portsmouth University mentored by Nigel Fawcett Type 45 COM Design & Obsolescence Manager.

Donna is also progressing towards CEng professional registration.

NOW & THE FUTURE

Her career path has taken her from working on warships as a mechanical fitter to a design engineer in the Technical Services Office and now currently managing a team of engineering project managers, Donna has had to draw on different skills.

“Understanding people is a really big part of my role and I do like the challenge of getting the job done. I really enjoy the interaction with customers, engineers and ships staff to understand their wants and the need to keep the ships operational.

“There is a perception that women have to try harder when they are working in a traditionally male environment; however, in my experience you are measured on performance and ability rather than gender. I would highly recommend this as a career path and would encourage females into the business – I do push myself hard but that’s because I like to do a good job, “she said.

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TRANSFORMATION UPDATE // NAVAL BASE INVESTMENT Focus

WORK on a new £18m jetty in Portsmouth Harbour where Royal Navy warships will load up with ammunition has just got underway.

Once complete the Upper Harbour Ammunitioning Facility will replace the existing jetty which was built in 1929 and is not large enough to accommodate the Navy’s new Type 45 destroyers.

Former Portsmouth Naval Base Commander, Commodore Rob Thompson, got the construction underway by pressing a button to start the ‘driving-in’ of the first main jetty piles.

“This project has been planned for a long while so it is tremendous news that work has now started. It will be of great benefit to the naval base and the navy as a whole - it will be used not only by the new Type 45s but also our Type 42 destroyers, Type 23 frigates and other surface vessels,” he said.

The facility – which also includes two hydraulic cranes and mooring pontoons – will measure 85 metres by 15 metres and can accommodate ships up to 10,000 tonnes. It can be used in winds of up to force six. Once it’s operational by the

middle of next year the old jetty will be demolished.

Gerrit Smit, project manager at VolkerStevin Marine which is building the facility, said: “We are delighted to be involved in this prestigious project which is so important for the Royal Navy. It is the first time we have worked with the Ministry of Defence but I hope this is the start of a lasting relationship.”

Paul Simmonds of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) who is managing the project added: “The DIO is delighted to see the first piles driven. VolkerStevin Marine is to be congratulated for its professionalism in the way it has managed to mobilise, progress the design and start construction before the closed season for piling operations in Portsmouth Harbour.

“We look forward to a successful programme and the delivery of a facility that will support our ships for many years to come.”

WORK STARTS ON NEW£18m AMMUNITION JETTY

Top: graphic showing the new jetty

Above: the existing jetty

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Focus

SAILORS from Portsmouth-based frigate HMS Lancaster have moved back on board their warship after a year-long refit.

Marking a significant step forward for HMS Lancaster, the arrival of her ship’s company is the next stage before she retakes her place in the operational Royal Navy fleet early next year.

Since September 2010 BAE Systems has undertaken important upgrade work on the ship’s hull, engines, weapon systems and workplace computer system.

The move on board of the ship’s company marks the handover of the security and safety of the ship to the Senior Naval Officer, Lieutenant Commander Charlie Guy.

“I am delighted with the refit progress which has allowed us to meet this major milestone of moving back on board our warship today,” he said. “An extraordinary amount of work from both BAE Systems and the ship’s company has gone into ensuring the ship is ready.”

The replacement of both port and starboard shafts required precise engineering from BAE Systems to ensure absolute alignment of the intricate shaft components.

The Transom Flap, an extension of the hull structure at the stern of the ship, acts like an underwater spoiler, reducing the drag of the ship through the water, making her travel faster while using less fuel.

Surface Ships Project Manager, Roy Ashton, said: “The way we have worked together on this has been remarkable.

“We are right to be proud of our achievements to date – we need to continue working with the same high level of teamwork in order to deliver the ship ready for redeployment,” he said.

As well as the important mechanical and engineering work undertaken on the ship, the living and working areas have been significantly upgraded for the sailors. Of particular importance was the refurbishment

of the ship’s accommodation, where new carpets, bulkheads, mess squares and many other alterations have significantly improved the quality of the mess decks.

New ovens and cupboard panels have been installed in the galley for the chefs and the junior rates’ mess deck has been made more homely with new furniture, carpets and ceiling panels to disguise pipework.

For Engineering Technician David Daish, 20, from Southampton who is joining a ship for the first time in his naval career, it is a welcome upgrade.

“I am really impressed with the mess deck that I will be calling home for the next couple of years,” he said. “All the lads have pulled together to make it a great place to relax when not at work.”

HMS Lancaster Reaches Major Milestone As Crew Move Back On Board After Year Long Refit

UPKEEP // DELIVERY

At a GlanceHMS Lancaster, known as ‘The Queen’s Frigate’ has undergone four refits in her 21 years and will emerge early next year to add to the 512,000 miles travelled in her service to date.

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Another Milestone for QE Class Carrier Progress Update

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Feature

Work is in progress on all three sections of the QE Class Carrier in Portsmouth

PORTSMOUTH UPDATE

ALL three sections of the Aircraft Carrier Queen Elizabeth being built by BAE Systems Surface Ships in Portsmouth dockyard are in full production. The largest of these sections, Lower Block 2, which will be 6,000 tonnes on completion, is now structurally complete and the focus has now turned to finishing the internal compartment outfit prior to final inspections before the block leaves.

Lower Block 2 contains two of the ship’s main diesels, power distribution systems, mission system compartments, accommodation modules, and naval stores and has 60,000m of cable, 3,300m of air-conditioning vent and 7,300 pipes installed to date. The block will leave the BAE Systems Portsmouth ship build hall in April next year for transportation by

barge to the Rosyth shipyard where the carrier is being assembled.

The second largest section is Lower Block 5 which is the stern section and contains hydraulic power packs, power distribution systems as well as accommodation modules. Lower Block 5 is being built in two 800 tonne rings and contains the two rudder horns. Load out for Lower Block 5 is also April next year.

The final section in build in Portsmouth is the Forward Island, Upper Block 7. This section will be 750 tonnes and contains the ship’s bridge, radars and mission system compartments. The forward Island leaves Portsmouth in November next year.

ROSYTH UPDATE

In a milestone for the QEC programme, the Goliath crane moved into action for the first time recently - with one of the heaviest loads it will have to deal with.

David Goodfellow, Aircraft Carrier Alliance Shipbuild Director, said: “Everyone in the team coordinating the first major lift has done a professional job in the planning of this critical path milestone. The section weighed more than 800 tonnes and was one of the largest Goliath will have to deal with.

“But on the day, the months of preparation paid off and a safe and accurate operation saw the Upper Block positioned precisely on top of Lower Block 03. Work to integrate the block began almost immediately. “

Just a few days after the first successful lift the second section of Upper Block was also moved into place, and the teams are working towards the rest of the sections being fitted and the associated sponsons to the side of the ship which will give it the distinctive profile of an aircraft carrier.

Build Update

HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH // CARRIER UPDATE // PROGRESSFeature

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Photo - QEC 1 South 013 – Lower Block 5 Rings T & U in Hall B

FactfileThe huge mid-section of HMS Queen Elizabeth, the first of the new aircraft carriers for the Royal Navy , moved out of the company’s shipbuilding hall at Govan.

After six months of planning, a team of 10 moved the 8,000 tonne mid-section known as Lower Block 03, across 200 m of reinforced tarmac in just one hour using 64 rmote controlled transporters, before the block was loaded on a barge for the

journey to Rosyth

At a GlanceThe system used in Portsmouth Naval Base to pump docks dry, known as the Dock Pumping & Drainage System, is made up of three pumping stations and three and half kilometres of sub-terranean brick lined drainage culverts.

The culverts are up to three metres in diameter and form a spine linking the three pumping stations, with branches to the eight operational docks/locks in the central/northern part of the base.

The system has evolved over several centuries; the system in the current heritage area has been in existence since the late 17th century. Originally built to serve the docks around No 1 Basin, the system was gradually extended north and eastward as land was reclaimed.

Heritage

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BENEATH the surface there’s a whole different world beneath our feet at Portsmouth Naval Base.

And it’s a world that Bob Powell was well acquainted with over his many years working here.

Bob has recently retired after starting work as an apprentice at the age of 15. He left the base in the 70’s to become a milkman for a time but when he returned that was when his world turned upside down.

“I joined the Pumping Station team and as part of my job I had to survey the culvert system – the series of tunnels running through the yard.

“It is a strange atmosphere down there - it’s very damp and clammy. Some date back to the 1800s – you can walk underground for quite a distance. For instance you can walk from Victory up to D lock, a distance of about one and a half miles,” said Bob, 64, who recently retired as Team Leader, Mechanical Shore Connections.

He was always fascinated by the history of this subterranean world and enjoyed seeing how someone had carved their initials down there in 1892 and a hook on the wall that

dates back to 1700s when French prisoners of war were working down there.

“It was fascinating down there and a real feat of engineering to allow the water to flow in and out of the dry dock safely,” he said

Over many years spent in the naval base Bob has seen several changes not least of which has been the number of cars.

“Everyone cycled and it was quite a sight seeing everyone leave at the end of the day. It could be quite scary when you were in the middle of all the bikes but you just went with it.

“When you worked in C or D lock you were allowed to clock off six minutes earlier because it took longer to get to the gate and get on your bike,” he said.

In retirement Bob is looking forward to doing some travelling including a cruise to New York on Queen Mary 2 and he will be continuing to piece together his family tree.

“I will miss the banter and the people. Dock yard humour is a very particular thing – you have to be able to take it as well as give it but I’ve always really enjoyed it,” he said.

Bob Bids Farewell A working life at PNB

HMNB PORTSMOUTH // ESTATE INFRASTRUCTURE

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Colleagues Pay TheirRespects toPincher Martin

Date Event Information

16 Nov Workforce Brief Victory Club

Information available on the Team Portsmouth intranet

25 Nov Defence Road Safety Week Roadshow

Go to the Team Portsmouth Intranet for more information

25 – 27 Nov Victorian Christmas Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

7 Dec Craft Fair Victory Building

8 Dec Craft Fair Galley Box

Diary Dates

“He was a big man with a heart to match.”

That was just one of the heartfelt descriptions given in an online obituary for Tony ‘Pincher’ Martin after he lost his battle with cancer.

The popular Military Guard Service manager was well known for being a great people person with a passion for rugby and cricket.

“When it was hot he turned up at the gate with ice lollies for everyone and he was always baking cakes for everyone to share,” recalled Ann Philp.

Pincher joined the guard service at its inception and in1992 he was a patrolman.

Steve Peach admitted that while his desk was generally covered in paperwork, he could always find exactly what he wanted in the piles of paper.

“Pincher didn’t believe in filing cabinets – he wasn’t what you would call a traditional manager but he got the job done and everyone liked and respected him,” he said.

Jim Beresford remembered Pincher having time for everyone.

“Nothing was too much trouble for him. He used to dress up for the kids as Father Christmas and he was a master entertainer.

“Even when he had to tell you off he would make up for it afterwards and send you away with a sweet,” he said.

At the funeral service held at St Marys in Portsmouth, friends and colleagues packed the church to pay their respects.

feature

RESTORATION CONTRACT // SECURING THE FUTURE

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Feature

Latest news on Victory contractBAE Systems has been announced as the preferred bidder for a five-year contract of work - with an option for a further five years - that will safeguard the future of the oldest commissioned warship in the world, HMS Victory.

The scope of work will see the iconic ship being overhauled quite literally from the tips of her masts to the cradle in which she rests.

In recent weeks, the upper sections of all three masts have been removed as part of a major restoration project and this latest contract will allow an even more detailed schedule of work to begin.

Along with planned maintenance, the schedule will include more major work on the masts, replacement of shipside planking, and repairs to the middle-gun deck, as well as possibly replacing the cradle that supports the ship in its dry dock.

Project manager John O’Sullivan explained once the contract has been signed, a full survey of Nelson’s historic flagship will be carried out before a list of priority work is agreed.

“During the recent removal of the top sections of the masts we have kept HMS Victory open

to the public and I can see no reason why she should not remain open as we carry out the rest of the work.

“This work is very necessary to guarantee her long-term future and it is an opportunity for the visiting public to gain an even greater insight,” he said.

Survey work is underway to look at the sections of the mast which remain in place following the recent removal of the top masts. The iron masts which sit on the keel and extend up to a joining plate on the deck date, back to the 1880s and have never been replaced in that time.

“You can see where one of the plates was damaged when a bomb exploded during World War 11 and it was never replaced.

“We need to look at the remaining sections of the mast and replace any parts that might need removing before we think about returning the top masts,” he said.

A new fire suppression system will also be fitted as part of the works and BAE Systems will be working in partnership with sub-contractors to complete the major tasks already identified.

John is already looking at how the cradle which supports the ship in the dry dock can be safely replaced.

Ironically John worked on another famous cradle – the one that was used to bring the wreck of the Mary Rose to the surface.

“It will be a major piece of work in itself and it is crucial for the long-term future of the ship,” he said.

“There are four of us in the project team and at any one time we will have about eight people working on the ship. It will be great to get started on the job of maintaining Victory.” for future generations to enjoy.

“We are hopeful of a contract award before the end of November,” he said.

AFTER more than five decades working at Portsmouth Naval Base, head rigger John Hayes has hung up his ropes.

For 30 years he was the head rigger on HMS Victory responsible for three mast refits and his close affinity with the ship earned him the nickname ‘Mr Victory.’

Nearly 52 years ago he came to work in the base as a yard boy at the age of 15. In 1959, the base was a bustling place with three rigging houses and 100 riggers.

“In those days they used to have a classroom on the base and you spent two years learning the basics.

“Each boy was allotted a gang to work with and my first job was with the mast party. Every naval establishment had a mast and we would go round to places such as St Vincent at Gosport.

“We would refurbish the masts completely and then completely re-do the rigging,” said John, 67.

When John first started at the naval base he earned the princely sum of £2/2/6 every week – less than the price of a posh coffee today.

“I would give my mum a pound and spend the rest of it at the weekly dance in Gosport. I was a yard boy for five years until I became a rigger,” he said.

For John the highlight of his career was working on HMS Victory. He was in his 60s the

last time he climbed the mast but John can still remember the feeling of climbing the 150 ft mast for the first time.

“The adrenalin really pumps when you get that high up and it’s only experience gained over many years that helps you when things go wrong,” he said.

HMS Victory Appoints New Curator

Time travelling historian Andrew Baines has sailed back through time from working on HMS Warrior 1860 to being newly appointed by the National Museum of the Royal Navy (NMRN) as the curator for HMS Victory.

Andrew will lead on the conservation, restoration and interpretation of the world’s greatest surviving warship, which stands as a proud memorial to Vice Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, Britain’s greatest naval hero.

Commenting on his new role, Andrew said: “Victory is undoubtedly one of the world’s most famous and important ships, and so to have the opportunity to take a lead in telling her story, and developing new aspects to that narrative, is a great privilege.”

HEAD RIGGER RETIRES // WORKING TOGETHERFeature

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John Scores HalfCentury at PNB

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Feature CONTRACTORS ON DEPLOYED OPERATIONS // PARTNERING AT WORK

Be Prepared withCONDO

PREPARING staff to work in higher risk environments in support of the military around the world is the responsibility of Head of Security for Surface Ships Barry Jarvis.

Contractors on Deployed Operations or CONDO, requires specific process to ensure staff are fully prepared for the operational support and additional training to prepare staff who work in areas such as the Gulf so they can cope with emergency situations. Legalities, medical, personal contract and security risk are just some of the prerequisites covered.

Barry explained: “Courses and annual refresher training are run for people who have never worked in these environments before.

“You are taught what CONDO means and certain aspects of military discipline, first aid and how to cope with some of the issues you might come across in regions that differ both in culture and environment. It trains people for a worst case scenario and gives them a good level of preparation.

“Working in close partnership with the Navy the preparation of our staff is vital and gives a level assurance that we are providing skilled personnel who not only support vessels but will not be a burden in operational theatres. The Surface Ships CONDO team includes HR, Legal and Security who all carry out vital checks to ensure the safety and security of staff when deployed.”

Within Surface Ships the CONDO process is well established and has recently gone through a development upgrade to automate much of the authorisation required before such deployments can take place.

ASSISTANT Fleet Time Project Manager Dave Marlow knows the value of the CONDO training at first hand.

He spends four-months at a time in Bahrain working with the Forward Support Unit (FSU) of 26 naval personnel supporting the four minehunters (MCMVs) that are based there.

Dave has just completed his third deployment and says the CONDO training helped prepare him for the conditions in the best possible way.

“CONDO helps you to avoid putting yourself in a situation where you might be at risk. It teaches you about cultural issues and gives practical advice on dealing with things like the heat,” he said.

“CONDO training lasts for two days and I found it was probably the most enjoyable training you can do. It is carried out by ex-service personnel, it’s really professional and informative – and it is 100 per cent necessary to gain access to any port in Bahrain and various other Middle Eastern countries.”

With daytime summer temperatures soaring

to 52 degrees Centigrade, you have to ensure you are drinking enough water and maintain a good diet to stay healthy.

“When I was out there the last time, it was so hot that when one of the men took his hard hat off for a while and laid it on the deck, it started to melt.

“Due to the heat in the summer months we start work at 6am and if possible finish at midday before returning at 4pm – it’s what the locals do and it makes sense,” he said.

While Dave is a great supporter of CONDO, he revealed nothing can prepare you for the way people drive in Bahrain – and experience has helped Dave to come up with his own advice.

“The situation on the roads is absolutely bizarre – you really have to pay attention as cars are coming at you from all directions and

indicating is seen as a sign of weakness,” he said.

Dave really enjoys the autonomy that comes with the role and the chance to work with a team of professionals.

“We work as a team, hand in glove – it’s a really strong relationship.

“We learn from each other and there is open and honest communication between myself and FSU on a daily basis,” he said.

Be Prepared withCONDO

Case Study

My Job

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Me & My JobMal Lewis

BASE PEOPLE // ME & MY JOB

What does your job involve?

I have a very exciting, and varied job which covers a broad range of activities of an operations, programme and project management and general business management nature. I am responsible for the output and performance of the Warship Support Modernisation Initiative (WSMIi) Partnering contract, the small boats and commercial ship repair business as well as whole site responsibility for facilities management that includes the Ship Building South footprint. Additionally, I am responsible for the Warship Refits and fairly recently I have taken on the Mid Life Update contract for three vessels operated by a Middle East customer and some international spares contracts also.

What was your career path?

I joined the Royal Navy when I was 17 and enjoyed a full and varied career in the Marine Engineering specialisation, spending much of my time at sea serving in a number of ships. I also spent two and a half years based in Hong Kong as the base Marine Engineering Officer and Aide De Camp (Naval) to the Governor Hong Kong. In the early part of my Naval

Career I completed an apprenticeship as a fitter and turner and progressed through the ranks to commissioned officer before leaving the service in 2004 as an Acting Captain. I was also awarded the MBE in 1996. I am very proud of my time in the Senior Service, it gave me so many opportunities to learn about life, through travelling the world and it also gave me a great foundation for developing my leadership and management skills. After leaving the Navy I took up a role with FSL which then became part of the Joint Venture, BVT, and finally joined BAE Systems when the company bought VT Group’s share in BVT in 2009.

What is the best part about your job?

The people I work with are by far the best part of my job. I get immense satisfaction from building a team who are successful at delivering our business commitments to our customers. I also enjoy the day-to-day interaction with the workforce and seeing individuals flourish in their roles. I am a task driven person and therefore seeing projects being delivered successfully gives me a real kick. It never ceases to amaze me how well

the joint teams perform here in the naval base, it is a complex environment which relies on excellent team work and total commitment. So the best part of the job is seeing it all come together and watching ships sail from here to meet their operational challenges.

When you were growing up what did you want to be?

I was born in a little village by the name of St Dogmaels in Pembrokeshire, Wales. I had a very happy childhood and enjoyed the freedom of space, beautiful countryside and the seaside during my formative years. My first language is Welsh and up until I went to grammar school I was taught in Welsh. My father served in the army during the war and when he was demobbed went initially into farming before finally becoming a Master Baker. I can remember as a young lad wanting to be a farmer, as I was living in a strong farming community. But there was also a history of seafarers, naval captains and merchant seamen that came from the village and as a boy I was often regaled by stories of seafaring adventures by the various retired naval people who lived in the village.

Title: Director of Naval Base Support Based: Victory Building

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1/2 Page advertising

Me & My Job Lucy Jones

What does your job involve?

I work with BAE Systems staff and sub-contractors who are carrying out joinery and rigging work on HMS Victory. I’ve only been doing the job a few months and I’m really enjoying it.

What was your career path?

I started my apprenticeship as a joiner when I was 17 and I stayed on my tools for about 18 months after that. I made everything from my mallet and oil stone box for my apprentice tool kit through to the Managing Director’s desk and a coffee table for the Naval Base Commander’s office as well as working on ships. I then became a Material Provisions Engineer (MPE) making sure the people in the department I was working in had all the materials they needed to get the job done.

When you were growing up what did you want to be?

I used to volunteer with a Saturday morning group for children with special needs and I really wanted to become a child psychologist. But when I went to college I couldn’t cope with the academic side of it and changed direction to start an apprenticeship here at the naval base as a joiner. My dad Vernon was a big influence in my decision. When I was growing up I used to love making sawdust down in the shed with him and when I was aged eight or nine he bought me a little tool box.

What is the best part about your job?

I love working on board Victory – the history of the ship is just fascinating. Working with the lads and sub-contractors is great. I really enjoy working with a team and getting the job done.

Title: Production Co-ordinator HMS Victory Based: Victory Building

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Winter Oxtail and Lamb stewIngredients:

4 tbsp vegetable oil 3 tbsp flour 1 tsp salt 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp English mustard powder (optional) 1 whole oxtail (approx 2lb/1 kilo in weight) cut into 2”/5cm chunks 1 lb of lamb leg (diced into 2cm chunks) 1 glass red wine or small dry glass sherry 1 large onion, peeled and roughly chopped 2 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped 1 tbsp tomato puree 4 large carrots, peeled and roughly chopped 2 leeks, cleaned and thickly sliced 4 celery sticks, roughly chopped 2 bay leaves 2 ½ pints/ 1.25 litres dark beef stock 2 tbsp flat leaf parsley, stalks and leaves, roughly chopped + leaves for garnish 3 or 4 stalks of thyme or rosemary 1 tbsp plain flour 1 tbsp soft butter Salt and pepper

Preparation:

This Serves 6. Ensure the oven is pre-heated to 325°F/160°C/Gas 3

Heat the oil in a large ovenproof casserole

dish.

Add the salt, pepper and mustard powder to the flour and mix thoroughly.

Toss the oxtail chunks and lamb a few at a time in the flour, shake off any surplus flour and brown. Do this in batches to get a good colour. This will help the overall flavour by naturally caramelizing the meat and bringing the flavour out. Remove from the oil and keep to one side.

Once all oxtail pieces have been browned, reheat the pan and add the wine or sherry to the pan and scrape the bottom of the pan. This will de-glaze the pan and add additional flavour to the overall stew.

Keep stirring until the wine has reduced to a thick glaze on the bottom of the pan.

Add the onion and garlic, stir well and cook for three minutes to soften the onion, but not brown it. If the onion is starting to brown, lower the heat.

Add all the remaining ingredients, stir well, bring to a gentle boil, cover with a lid and cook in the preheated oven for three hours. The stew should never be boiling, but slowly bubbling. This will prevent mass evaporation and eventual burning. Stewing is all about time and harnessing the natural flavours in the food.

Leave to stand for 10 minutes, adjust the seasoning to your personal taste, sprinkle with the parsley leaves and serve.

Oxtail and lamb stew is a hearty dish and will hold up against many strong flavours, but on this occasion, let the stew be the main dish. I would recommend it being served with a simple creamy mash with possibly horseradish or some simple herb dumplings. A good glass of wine would never go a miss. Enjoy.

Recipe compiled by CPO Dave Bevington

Jack Snacks

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RECIPE // YOUR LETTERS // COMPETITION Interest

Jack Snacks

If you would like to have your say – or you have a burning desire to appear in a future issue of Shoreside, we would love to hear from you.

Contact:

Email: kate.thompson@baesystems.com

Phone: 07968262805

Kate Thompson, Editor, Shoreside, Room 222, Naval Base HQ, Victory Building, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LS.

Congrats on a great edition of Shoreside.

This edition is a welcome return to “life in the

Dockyard” rather than being predominantly RN

with a sprinkling of “The Base!” In fact this edition

has been so successful that I have “sold out” of all

my allocation and would like some more please!

There are many areas of the Naval Base

where both RN & civilian personnel never go

– the Boilerhouses being one such place, so I

welcomed the opportunity to provide details for

your article on the summer steam shutdown. It’s

important for people to be aware of the scale of

the work involved and the potential savings of

initiatives like this.

The Me & My Job article featuring young Lewis

Mihell has caused some good humoured

banter within our department. I noticed

that some “wag” has placed his article on

our noticeboard! No doubt this will be

mentioned at tomorrow’s Toolbox Talk!

Mick Huitson, BAE Systems Plant and

Utilities Manager.

1/2 Page

advertising

Me & My Job

Lewis Mihell

What does your job involve?

“Day-to-day I respond to call outs and repairs so, for instance, if there is

a steam leak I would be the person who sorts it out.

“Of course the most important part of my work is the attention to

Health & Safety. I have to complete a Take 5 Card for most of my jobs,

this allows me a few minutes to stop and consider the risks and more

importantly how to control and reduce them. Most of my work has to

be done under a Permit to Work which is written by my colleagues

Pressure Systems Authorised Persons Steve & Dave.”

What was your career path?

“I always wanted to do mechanical work ever since I did work

experience as part of the Trident scheme.

I have worked at Portsmouth Naval Base for five years. I completed a

four-year apprenticeship in 2.5 years and was even awarded Apprentice

of the Year. I really enjoy working with the team and it has been great

working with my boss Mick Huitson.”

What is the best part about your job?

“There is a lot to learn – I really enjoy working with steam and fault

diagnostics is the best part of the job. You have to take a step back

and go through all the possibilities of what is wrong. You start with the

easiest solution and work your way through the problem – experience

is key to solving it.”

Title: Mechanical Steam Heating Engineer

Based: Operations & Maintenance Workshop Building 2/17

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41

Shoreside

Competition – Win a copy of Citizen Sailors – the Royal Navy in the Second World War.

HERE’S your chance to win a copy of Glyn Prysor’s evocative story of the war at sea Citizen Sailors – the Royal Navy in the Second World War.

Seen through the eyes of sailors themselves, it is a compelling account of daily humanity, horror, triumph and tragedy, showing how the Royal Navy fought in every conceivable vessel from vast aircraft carriers and cramped corvettes, to fast motor boats, rickety minesweepers, Swordfish biplanes and ageing submarines.

Glyn Prysor has taught modern British History at Jesus College, Oxford and the University of Sussex. Citizen Sailors is his first book.

We’ve got five copies of the hardback volume to give away as prizes – to be in with a chance of winning simply email your answer to the following question to kate.thompson@baesystems.com or send by internal mail to Kate Thompson PP72, Room 222, Victory Building.

Question: What is the name of the author of Citizen Sailors?

Full Page advertising

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Full Page advertising

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