Collingwood celebrates successful open day event

By Marie Arnott

HMS COLLINGWOOD are celebrating another highly successful open day event that was held last weekend in Fareham; the popular occasion drawing thousands of visitors to the training establishment on Newgate Lane throughout this “family day of fun”.

Guests, including local residents and armed forces communities, came together in cool but dry weather to enjoy a range of entertainment on Saturday, July 1. This included military displays by Phase 2 trainees, performances from the Volunteer Band, a motorcycle display team, free funfair, children’s activities, and beverage stalls.

The special highlight of the day was the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity Field Gun Competition (RNRMC), which this year featured 19 crews from across the UK and as far afield as Cyprus, and a combined NATO crew, competing for the coveted “Brickwoods Trophy”.

As expected, the competition was as fast and furious as ever, with crews displaying essential strength, stamina, and teamwork in this challenge. There was again much to play for with HMS Seahawk, from the Royal Naval Air Station Culdrse, Cornwall, hoping to retain their title won in 2022.

And their team did win the trophy for a second successive year after a thrilling final; every move being cheered by their dedicated supporters and visitors alike. They further won the Powerful Sports Cup for the fastest aggregate time across the competition and the Powerful Trophy for the fastest run.

The team’s Field Gun Trainer was proud of this triple achievement and said after lifting the Brickwoods Trophy: “We’re extremely chuffed to win again this year. I knew we could do it, it’s such a hard-fought competition and everyone was fantastic, but we are thrilled to take the trophy!”

Commanding Officer, HMS Collingwood Captain Tim Davey added his own thoughts: “It was a fantastic day. A big thank you to everyone who has come to support us. The Field Gun Competition was fiercely contested by the superb crews across all our Forces and our international partners.”

He continued: “Many, many congratulations to HMS Seahawk; the deserved winners today of the Brickwoods Trophy. We look forward to seeing everyone again in 2024.”

Readers are asked to check social media for updates on the 2024 open day event, including the date and further information.

PICTURED BY KEITH WOODLAND: HMS Seahawk crew celebrate with the Brickwood’s Trophy; winning the competition for a second successive year after thrilling final.