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Royal Charter draft put to Royal Naval Association Area 4 Meeting
The Royal Naval Association, Area 4, held its quarterly meeting at Roche Sports & Social Club St. Austell, on Saturday 16th May 2026, where the newly proposed Royal Charter was presented to shipmates from around the South West by Commodore Mark Slawson, Deputy National President.
The proposed, updated Royal Charter, which is still a work in progress is being reworked, to reflect modern evolutionary changes and practices, and governance, having been established since 1954.
Commander Richie Turrell, Executive Officer at RNAS Culdrose, was the Guest of Honour and opened the meeting with a riveting presentation about changes to our Navy and how these have impacted on personnel deployed around the globe. He also updated us on modern aircraft and where they were at the moment and the tasking they are undertaking, outlining how the scaled down assets more than covered what the assets of days gone by could provide.
The meeting continued with thanks being given to Shipmate Carl Beeson of Plymouth Branch who has resigned for health reasons and new Committee member Bob Featherstone being invited on. In addition, it was reported that 4 key members of RNA’s Central Office, based in Portsmouth are either leaving or have left; to take up roles elsewhere and Area 4 wishes them well in their future endeavours.
It was confirmed that Plymouth RNA will be hosting the National Conference in 2028 and shipmates were forewarned that it will take a lot of work to host members from all over the country and it was hoped that all Branches would chip in and help where needed. It will be held at The Crowne Plaza Plymouth with accommodation available there and at The China Fleet Club, Saltash who are to host the SCG (Sports & Comradeship Group) Golfing competition.
Following closure of the meeting, the rum raffle took place, and afternoon tea was served.
Torbay RBL & RNA get together for HMS Raleigh Passing Out Parade
Torbay members and friends from Brixham & Torquay RBL had an early start on 15th May 2026 to be at HMS RALEIGH by 0900 for a great day witnessing the Passing Out Parade of the latest newly qualified Part 1 trainees.
They were welcomed at the main gate by HMS Raleigh’s PRO and Terry Witty and other members of the RNA Mentoring Team.
Following coffee in the Senior Rates Mess, the Training Commander, (TC) Tony Tipping RN gave a brief introduction to the establishment. Visitors were then escorted to the Roebuck Theatre where families of the Nelson 25/36 Class had also congregated.
Warrant Officer Newbury from HMS Raleigh presented ‘Today’s Navy’ followed by an impressive ten minute video showing each stage of the ten week training programme.
Before Divisions on the Parade Ground, the visitors undertook a tour of one of the mess-decks before taking lunch in the ‘Victory Restaurant’.
Post lunch, the highlight of the visit was witnessing divisions, where the two guard platoons made up of the leaving classes, together with eight other platoons made up from trainees further down the training cycle undertook Friday Divisions, and for some the end of their basic training.
The Royal Marines Band Plymouth gave their usual precise display of marching and music during the inspection and provided a musical accompaniment to an extremely impressive Precision Arms Drill, executed to perfection by the Passing Out Guard.
The whole day was one not to be missed and is highly recommended to other Branches. Please contact Terry Witty, Lead Mentor via the Facebook Page if you are interested in attending.
Plymouth Standard Bearers win National 2026 Novice Competition
The Plymouth Branch Standard Bearers, along with other standards, and several members of the Royal Naval Association all travelled to HMS Collingwood in Portsmouth for the annual Standard Bearers competition on the weekend of 8th and 9th May.
The event brought together standard bearers from across the UK to celebrate ceremonial excellence and drill proficiency. Key details from the competition included both training sessions and the formal championship competition, allowing attendees to participate in either or both
RNA Plymouth was represented by S/Ms Lee (Fred) Perry and Cheryl Allen, both right on the photo. They achieved the 1st and 2nd prizes (respectively) in the Novice Class. BZ to both of them.
VE Day Remembered on Plymouth Hoe
The Plymouth Branch Standard Bearers, along with other standards, and several members of the Plymouth Branch of the Royal Naval Association turned out once again to commemorate VE Day at The Naval War Memorial on Plymouth Hoe on Fri 8th May.
Plymouth RNA continued their tradition of wreath laying at the Royal Naval Memorial on Plymouth Hoe to remember V.E. Day and all those who made the Supreme Sacrifice.
The Standard was carried by S/m Cheryl Allan, accompanied by S/m Wilf Pickles with the Medical Branch Standard and S/m Derek Atkinson with the ASWI Standard. The bugler was S/m Fred Perry.
S/m Daryl Cree was the duty padre with S/m Kevin Adamson taking on the role of Parade Marshall.
Chard Branch return of HMS Campion ships bell
Thursday 14th May 2026 saw members of Chard branch, mainly, Area 4 President S/m Malcolm Day, S/m Helen Day, S/m Dick Moon and S/m Paula Moon attend the Chard Guildhall in order to return HMS Campion Ships bell to it’s rightful place in the foyer of the Guildhall after it had been cleaned by S/m Dick Moon on behalf of Chard branch.
The Chard mayor Councillor Victoria Bates and her deputy were present to receive the bell back into the custody of the people of Chard when it was presented to the people of Chard when the ship was decommissioned at the end of WWII.
RNAMCC Head to Oxford for an education – or did they?
Members of the RNAMCC (Royal Naval Association Motorhome, Caravan and Camping group) have been off to Oxford for a quick recce, ahead of their upcoming Big Meet Mark V.
Members Ron Fletcher, Dan Beer, Andy Fletcher and more, pitched up at Hardwicke in Oxford, ahead of the groups Big, Big Meet Mark V taking place on 25th June.
The large clubhouse has passed muster for catering for those that require big TV’s for the World Cup, whilst the rest of the site with its beautiful lakefront views will play host to some serious fun time.
The theme for 2026 and the 74 units booked in will be a Caribbean or Hawaiian theme, and providing midges stay away, the rig of the day is expected to prove interesting.
In addition to a great eating place at the Clubhouse there will be a BBQ, charity raffles and prizes, games, tot time, get togethers for shipmates old, local walks and sightseeing and of course, as always dogs are welcome, so plenty of dog walks.
The meet ups for everyone with a vested interest in camping or outdoor living has proved truly beneficial from a welfare point of view with the ability for people to talk in a safe setting with like minded oppo’s who “get it”. Over and over again, people have commented it has been great to see people they have not seen for years and to be in an environment that has lifted their spirits and for some give them the chance to try out something new. This has all been made possible with a financial grant from the RNRMC (Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity) and all are extremely thankful.
NOTE: The RNAMCC is not a Branch but a SCG (Sports & Comradeship Group) where only 1 person in the booking party needs to be a member of the RNA. The group is also open to people from other armed forces as long as one is a member of the RNA.
Serving or former serving members of the Royal Navy or Royal Marines are invited to join the RNA – there is no joining or membership fee.
Lt Cdr Arthur Leyland Harrison VC – A Recipient Remembered
Members of the Torbay Branch gathered at Roundham Head, Paignton on 26th April 2026 for the annual service to commemorate the sacrifice made by Lieutenant Commander Arthur Leyland Harrison VC Royal Navy and the many others who gave their lives at Zeebrugge on 23rd April 1918.
Representatives and Standards from branches of the Royal British Legion throughout Torbay, the Torbay Area Royal Marines Association, and representatives from Torbay Sea and Air Cadets, joined Shipmates from the Torbay Branch of the Royal Naval Association.
Chairman Terry Membery said “It is a pleasure to welcome Mr. David Walker, a distant relative of Lt Cdr Harrison who has only recently discovered that a memorial existed” He went on to welcome everyone present and read a reflection on the life of Lt Cdr Harrison before the Exhortation, Last Post, Two-Minute Silence and Reveille.
The Branch Patron, Commander Jane Allen, RNR (Rtd.) and Torbay’s Civic Mayor, Councillor Barbara Lewis laid wreaths at the memorial.
Arthur Harrison was born in Torquay in 1886, and has his Victoria Cross proudly displayed at Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth as well as his photograph on the VC walls at The Union Jack Club in London
After the service, six Torbay Falklands Veterans stood together for a photograph.
Portland Branch Marks 70th Anniversary at 2026 Annual Dinner
On Saturday 18th April, fifty‑two Shipmates, partners, and friends gathered for the 2026 Annual Dinner; a particularly special occasion as it marked the 70th anniversary of the Branch’s inauguration on 8th March 1956.
Guests enjoyed a three‑course dinner followed by tea, coffee, and a series of traditional toasts. Toasts were accompanied by a glass of port served in a specially commissioned 70th anniversary glass, which Shipmates were invited to take home as a keepsake of the milestone year.
Top Table – Top to Bottom: (T) Shipmate Pete Shoesmith, (L) Shipmate Nigel Rimmel,
(R) Shipmate Ben Carter, (L) Shipmate Lynne Rimmel, (R) Shipmate Josie Cartwright,
(L) Shipmate Karen Miller, (M) Shipmate Andy Christie, (R) Shipmate Dusty Miller.
The Branch was honoured to welcome the National Council Chairman and No 3 Area NCM, Shipmate Andy Christie, as Guest of Honour. In his address, he reflected on the history of the Branch, the wider work of the Royal Naval Association, and the enduring values that continue to bind its members. He concluded by presenting the Branch with a framed certificate commemorating its 70 years of service and camaraderie. In return, Branch Chairman Shipmate Dusty Miller presented Shipmate Andy with a set of Rum Tankards as a token of appreciation.
The Branch continues to thrive, with a current muster of 97 members: 6 Life Members, 57 Full Members, 31 Associate Members, 2 Serving Members, and 1 Honorary Member. In addition, the Branch is regularly joined by 3 Affiliate Members from Bridport Branch, who remain valued friends and supporters of Branch activities.
WWII Veterans and Happy Campers in Lincolnshire!
Tot time and a Mothering Sunday lunch were part of the Daily Routine when the RNAMCC (Royal Naval Association Motorhome, Caravan and Camping Club) met up in Lincolnshire over the weekend of 13th to 16th March.
A total of 45 Shipmates from 27 branches gathered for the three nights in various motorhomes, campervans and the like to meet up, and get the opportunity to meet other new members and discuss what’s ahead for the season. The next Big Meet Mk V is in June!
Hanworth Country Park was the venue in the Lincolnshire countryside and gave everyone the chance to set their plans and vans (and tents) for the forthcoming season, including the Big Meet Mk V with its Caribbean/Hawaiian theme.
There was raffle held which raised £78 which is being donated to a WWII Veterans Club, to pay for a fish and chip supper for its membership. S/M Dawn Easterbrook organised a guessing game with marbles in a demijohn which also raised £100 – there were 1254 marbles inside.
43 Shipmates also attended the Mothering Sunday lunch, allowing all to have a gentle wind down before derigging and setting off back across the various parts of the UK from whence they came.
The RNAMCC is open to anyone with an interest in camping, caravanning, motor homing etc who has at least one member of the party with an active RNA membership (full, life or associate). The group consists of members across all branches of the military and is aimed at meeting up with friends past and present, with likeminded interests, and pets are welcome.
For up to date information of what is going on – please check out the Facebook page here 
or contact Ron Shilton (Lead Admin) rnamcc@outlook.com or,
Annette Laurie (PRO & Communications Lead) commsrnamcc@outlook.com
Chard Branch at Area 4 Reunion 2026
Chard Branch with it’s President and newly appointed Area 4 President S/m Malcolm Day along with seven other shipmates attended the Area 4 Reunion in Bideford the first weekend of March.
It was a great weekend for all especially for one of our branch members who was awarded the Jacqui Ward trophy for her great service to the Bra
nch which was collected for her in her absence by S/m Helen Day making it more special as it was presented by S/m DNCM Peter Shoesmith and S/m Deputy Area Chair Ben Cartwright.
S/m Malcolm Day was also involved in handing over a certificate of appreciation to retiring Area 4 Standard Bearer S/m Mike Norton with yet another certificate being awarded to his wife Jan for all the service she had given to her branch and the support she had given over the years to her husband who had displayed the standard at various locations throughout the South West.
Chard had further involvement in the proceedings; our very own S/m Martin Kirkbride and Area 4 padre officiated at the Association church service ably assisted by local Reverend Jules where it was one less service for Jules as she is passing to another congregation.
All in all it was a great weekend meet up with like minded people and shipmates.
Thursday 12th March saw Chard shipmate Sherylin James presented with the Jacqui Ward Trophy and certificate of appreciation for her long service to the branch, the event was made even more potent by the fact that our President and the newly appointed president of Area 4 Royal Naval Association Shipmate Malcolm Day was able to present the award to his fellow branch shipmate a great honour for both.
Well done Sherylin.
Images courtesy of S/m Dick Moon
No 4 Area Reunion 2026
Over 160 Shipmates attended the 49th reunion of the No 4 Area Royal Naval Association over the weekend of 6th to 9th March at the Durrant House Hotel in Bideford.
The programme for the weekend began on Friday evening, in the Ballroom, with a hot/cold buffet dinner followed by entertainment, bottle raffle and dancing.
On Saturday, Shipmates were at their own leisure during the day; a quiz was held in the “Sir Richard” room in the morning, won by our guest branch, Aldershot, and later on in the evening, Shipmates then mustered in the Ballroom for the Gala Dinner; Grace was said by S/m Rev Martin Kirkbride. On completion of dinner a number of toasts were proposed, acknowledgement was given for all the hard work from the great team of Shipmates who organised the weekend and then a number of Announcements and Awards were made as follows:
No 4 Area Presidency
It was with honour that S/m Malcolm Day, President of Chard Branch officially accepted the position of Area No 4 President from retiring incumbent S/m David White MBE MSM of Portland Branch, who after many years sterling service to the Area and also at National level, was stepping down.
Jacqui Ward Trophy
Presented to the lady shipmate who had contributed most, selflessly within Branch during the previous year. This year the 2025 trophy was won by S/m Sherylin James of Chard Branch. Unfortunately, S/m Sherylin was unable to attend the weekend to receive the trophy so the trophy was presented by S/m No 4 Area DNCM Peter Shoesmith and S/m Deputy Area Chairman Ben Cartwright to S/m Helen Day who collected it on behalf of S/m Sherylin. Well done Sherylin.
Vic Cornwell Trophy
Presented in memory of S/m Vic Cornwell to the Associate member who has done the most to further the aims and interests of the Royal Naval Association during the previous year. This year the 2025 trophy was presented by S/m Area President Malcolm Day to S/m Jeanette McGee of Frome Branch. Well done Jeanette.
Reunion Quiz Trophy
Presented by S/m Area President Malcolm Day, the trophy went to this years winning quiz team, guest branch from No 3 Area, Aldershot. Well done Aldershot.
Certificates of Appreciation
Presentation of a number of Certificates of Appreciation for sterling service and support was made by S/m Area Chairman and No 4 Area NCM Warwick Belfitt as follows:
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On Sunday morning, Shipmates who could, made their way to St Margaret’s of Antioch Church, Northam, for a Service of Remembrance hosted by Revd Jules Harris, Rector St Margaret’s, and Revd Martin Kirkbride, Padre RNA No 4 Area, Chaplain D118 Association.
Later, after lunch, Shipmates learnt who had won the Rum Raffle and enjoyed an afternoon of Horseracing hosted by Fay and Mike Lawton and their team of “Bookies” and “Jockey’s”.
Images courtesy of S/m’s Dick Moon and Bob Featherstone
Portland RNA and TS Penn Celebrate Cadet Achievements
On the evening of Thursday 5th February 2026, twelve shipmates were delighted to attend the Divisions and Annual Awards evening of the Portland Sea Cadet Unit TS Penn, to celebrate the incredible achievements by the Cadets throughout the previous year in 2025. The Unit was packed with proud parents, supportive families and friends cheering on their Cadets. It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and spirit of the Cadets.
The evening commenced with Colours and Divisions; Shipmates were honoured that the Mayor of Portland and Branch Shipmate, Councillor Charlie Flack was invited to inspect Divisions where he chatted to each of the Cadets.
On completion of divisions a short break for refreshments was had after which the presentation of awards began in earnest. Shipmate and Mayors Consort, Maria Flack, presented four Specialisation and Proficiency awards to Cadets with Shipmate Pete Shoesmith presenting another four. The evening moved on with Branch Chairman Shipmate Dusty Miller presenting Boating awards to Cadets and Shipmate Karen Miller presenting Best Junior Cadets awards. Shipmate Councillor Charlie Flack then presented Best Cadets awards to the Senior Cadets section. The presentations then concluded with Shipmate Dusty presenting the Portland Branch sponsored award the “Diamond Community Award” which was shared by no less than three Cadets, Ordinary Cadet Ruby and Cadets Alexander and Vinnie after which Shipmate Pete Shoesmith presented the other Portland Branch sponsored trophy “Barton Award”, donated by previous Branch President Shipmate Dick Barton, for Best Improved Piper to Ordinary Cadet Oscar. On completion of the awards, the evening was concluded with Evening Colours.
Shipmate Chairman Dusty Miller later said:
“it was a pleasure to be able to participate in the awards evening and that the Cadets were a credit to the Unit, the branch looks forward to supporting the Unit throughout 2026.”
Branch members attending:
Shipmate Chair Alexander “Dusty” Miller
Shipmate Treasurer Peter Shoesmith
Shipmate Membership Sec/Fundraising Karen Miller
Shipmate Mayor Councillor Charlie Flack
Shipmate Mayor’s Consort Maria Flack
Shipmate Chris Gover
Shipmate Kate Gover
Shipmate Alice Gover (Serving RN)
Shipmate John Harte
Shipmate Anna Harte
Shipmate Damien Hawkins (SCC)
Shipmate Bernadette Cranny
Full member and certificate of appreciation presentation meeting
Thursday 13th November Chard branch held a social evening made even better when the President and Acting Chairman Shipmate Malcolm Day called the members to order in order to present two S/m’s with unsuspected awards for their services to the Branch.
Chard Shipmate wreath laying in memory of recent loss of S/M Husband
Chard Shipmate Liz O’Brien was honoured when asked to lay a wreath at the recent Armistice parade at Taunton this year, it was even more poignant on behalf of Liz having only recently lost her S/m husband and Chard branch Chairman Andy to illness. The couple being active members of the branch were/are very supportive of all things service based. BZ to Liz in honouring the request of Andy on this occasion.
Donation to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance
Shipmate Peter Shoesmith of the Portland Branch. shares the letter from Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance thanking the Area for the recent donation.
See it Here
Shipmate Ian Stobie MBE Falmouth Branch
At the packed Falmouth branch July Branch Meeting 44 Shipmates gathered to wish ex Vice Chairman and Secretary S/m Ian Stobie and wife Sharon ”Bon Voyage’.From SW UK to SW Victoria, Australia
The Chair (Ian Laurie) and Secretary (Annette Laurie) of the Bodmin Branch of the Royal Naval Association, currently travelling the world, met up with shipmates in Victoria, Australia this month.
Having seen in the RNA Semaphore publication, a picture of the CEO cutting a 75th Anniversary cake that made its way all the way from near Melbourne in Australia, they realised that they were staying nearby on the Mornington Peninsula, as part of their 9 month world trip. 
Initially they couldn’t make contact due to email issues, but a swift email to RNA HQ saw messages start to fly backwards and forwards with a very prompt invitation to join the Port Philip Branch of the RNA for their monthly get together and lunch.
Branch Chairman Mike Bennet and Branch Secretary Mike Murphy warmly welcomed and introduced them to the many shipmates present.
“The time went very quickly” said Ian “we got chatting inside their amazing meeting club, full of Aussie naval artefacts down one side and Royal Navy artefacts and photos down the other side. There was a great roast beef lunch and apple crumble dessert which was extremely tasty and well washed down by the obligatory tot or two!”
Annette and Ian both gave a brief introduction about themselves, having served for 60 years in the RN/RNR between them.
“I really enjoyed the movie presentation as there were various issues put together for it, including a piece on 100 years of the WRNS” said Annette.
After lunch there was a raffle and a photo opportunity for all – including a pic of Janner Pasty Peeps, a Cornish Pasty who travels the world with them, alongside his partner in crime, Help for Heroes Baby Bear.
“Being away for so long really makes you realise how much you miss the camaraderie and connection’s said Ian “and we are really thankful to Kathryn at RNA HQ for passing our email on to the Port Philip Branch to make this happen”
And just to go full circle, there was another 75th Anniversary cake made by Lauren Dugan, who made 3 in total – one for the Branch birthday in June, one for the RNA 75th Anniversary and another for shipmates who missed the June celebrations such as Dennis Fryer, an RNA Life Member, who was the Branch Secretary for over 15 years and his lady Joy Fryer who when she was physically able, was a stalwart of the branch organising functions and the like. Also missing in June were Jeanette and Graham Caldwell, and so the smaller cake was presented to them, “so as they would not dip out” according to Chair Mike Bennett who said “plus we had a couple of overseas visitors at the July meeting”
Dennis did a great job cutting the cake into 12 portions and sharing amongst those lucky few.
Photo Information: Shipmates of Port Philip Branch – Joy in wheelchair at the front – Annette and Ian either side the wheelchair and THAT cake!
Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Donation
Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance A thank you letter from Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance for the Donation they received from Area 4 Reunion 2025 despatched for the attention of all members who attended and those who should to illustrate why we have a reunion each year.
Jam or Cream First ?
The Bodmin Branch of the Royal Naval Association switched its annual summertime event this year.
Instead of the regular BBQ and boules, a more refined afternoon cream tea was held and hosted by Shipmates Mike and Isobel Frost, long standing members of the Branch.
Several shipmates attended and with no boules to play, lazing on a sunny Sunday afternoon (didn’t the Small Faces do that?) seemed to be the order of the day.
After games and Cornish pasties the scones, jam and cream were served but unfortunately, the age old question of jam first or cream first raised its head and was not settled once and for all.
Bodmin Branch is open to all serving and former serving members of the Royal Navy and any others who feel affiliated and align to the RNA ethos. Please feel free to get in touch, the shipmates would make you feel more than welcome. They meet on the first Friday of every month at Bodmin Bowls Club at 7.30pm
Webbys Note
Of course its always Jam first for us, Cornish aren’t ashamed of our cream.
In Memory of HMS Foylebank and her Valliant Crew
The Portland Branch of the Royal Naval Association honoured the memory of those who fell during the attack on HMS Foylebank on the morning of 4th July 1940, with a poignant ceremony held at the Yeates Road memorial site.
Since the dedication of the memorial on 4th July 2021, the Portland RNA has proudly taken on the duty of remembrance, ensuring the sacrifice of those lost is never forgotten. This year, fourteen members of the branch were in attendance.
A moving reading was delivered by Branch Chairman, Shipmate Dusty Miller, while the Branch Standard was paraded by Branch President, Shipmate Ben Cartwright. Shipmate Micky Fox also paraded the Ajax Association Standard, adding to the solemn dignity of the occasion.
The ceremony was further marked by the presence of Mr Johnson, whose father, Edwin Johnson, served aboard HMS Foylebank. His attendance served as a powerful reminder of the personal legacies carried forward by families and communities alike.
The Portland RNA remains committed to preserving naval heritage and supporting veterans and their families through unity, loyalty, and comradeship.
Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Awarded £1,000 from Annual Reunion Charity Chest
No. 4 Area Royal Naval Association, comprising 27 branches across Bristol, Dorset, Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall, proudly hosted its Annual Reunion Weekend from 7–9 March 2025 at the Durrant House Hotel in Bideford, North Devon.
As part of the reunion tradition, members organised raffles and fundraising events throughout the weekend, raising an impressive £3,500 for the Reunion Charity Chest. Each branch within No. 4 Area was invited to submit a proposal to receive a portion of these funds to support a cause of their choosing.
The Portland Branch nominated the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, recognising the invaluable assistance the service has provided to its members in the past. The Reunion Committee accepted this proposal and awarded £1,000 to the charity.
At the Branch meeting held 2 July 2025, a cheque was formally presented to Mr Harry Hendry, representative of the Air Ambulance, by Shipmate Peter Shoesmith, Deputy National Council Member and No. 4 Area RNA. Also present for the presentation were Shipmate Dusty Miller, Chairman of the Portland Branch RNA, and Shipmate Ben Cartwright, Deputy Chairman of No. 4 Area RNA and Portland Branch President.
The Royal Naval Association continues to honour its commitment to community and camaraderie, with heartfelt contributions that make a meaningful impact across the South West.
Chard branch Aggie Weston’s cheque presentation
Chard branch President Shipmate Malcolm Day when he recently visited RNAS Yeovilton, at the invitation of Families Pastoral worker Angela Harper, had the pleasure to present her a cheque donated by Area 4 Reunion fund for £1,000 .
Angela greatly accepted the cheque on behalf of Aggie Weston’s and thanked all shipmates who attended this year’s reunion at Bideford for their kind generosity.
Image of the presentation within the church at RNAS Yeovilton shows Left to Right, CPO Harrower, WO1 Edwards, Angela Harper, Shipmate Malcolm Day and Naval Chaplain Nigel Beardsley.
Area 4 South West Flotilla Reunion
On the first weekend in March this year, Durrant House Hotel in Bideford, once again hosted the hugely successful Reunion of the Roya Naval Association Area 4 South West Flotilla.
15 Branches were in attendance from around the Southwest, comprising a total of 154 members.
The Reunion is held as a means for everyone to get together, for charities to be nominated and raised funds to be donated to. This year the charities nominated were
- Aggie Weston’s
- Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance
- Walking with the Wounded
- Newquay Sea Cadets
The final figure will be publicised in due course but each year it is in the region of £2,000 or so.
The weekend hosts an informal get together on the Friday night, allowing Shipmates to settle in and get reacquainted with friends, and the Gala Dinner is held on the Saturday evening. There is a raffle and rum raffle and again figures will be promulgated in due course.
Sunday sees a church service with Standards and a collection for St. Margaret’s, which together with Gift Aid raised over £500 this year – a very generous service collection.
Having heard that Portsmouth would be hosting the World Uckers Tournament in 2025 it was decided to hold an Area 4 Tournament during the Reunion weekend. Unfortunately, half dropped out at the last minute, but it was good fun. Faye Lawton, one of the organisers of the weekend ended up in the final with Laurie Magee and some shipmates who
had never played (or served) before (Shipmates Fiona and Gary Hawkey) ended up in the semi final. However the overall event was won by David Worth and Roland Jones of Street Branch. They were duly presented with a trophy, donated by Frome Branch. The trophy celebrates the 100th birthday of their member John Oakley who joined in 1985 and still attends most meetings and socials! – BZ to all those involved.
Photos: David Worth (r ) and Roland Jones (l) with their well deserved trophy
Heads down for a game of uckers – Fiona Hawkey, Gary Hawkey, Faye Lawton and Laurie Magee
Mo Wood, President of Frome Branch presenting cup to RNA Area 4 President
NB David Worth is the taller of the two gents and Roland Jones – the shorter.
Area 4 Reunion Bideford 2025 Chard Branch
Yet another great Area 4 RNA reunion was enjoyed by 11 members of the branch with two members having attended for the first time.
Shipmate Susan Yeoman of the Plymouth Branch Presented with the Jacqui Ward Memorial Trophy
It was with much pleasure that the former Area Deputy Chairman (Now DNCM Shipmate Peter Shoesmith presented Shipmate Susan Yeoman of the Plymouth branch with the trophy. Shipmate Susan is a Former WREN Writer and currently the Hon Secretary of the Plymouth branch.
The trophy is presented annually to the Lady Shipmate of No4 Area ( Life Full or Associate) who has done the most to further the aims and
objects of the RNA during the past year.
Presentation of the newly appointed No 4 Area Standard Bearer on 23rd February 2025
Pictured on the left is Deputy Chairman of No4 Area, Shipmate Adrian (Ben) Cartwright of Portland Branch, in the centre is Shipmate Malcolm Day, No4 Area Ceremonial Advisor of Chard Branch. On the right is the newly appointed No 4 Area Standard Bearer, Shipmate Mike Morton of Street Branch holding his well earned trophies, presented at Bridgwater Sea Cadet HQ.
Image contributed by S/m Josie Cartwright.
Write up by Area 4 Ceremonial adviser S/m Malcolm Day
Chard Branch welcome two new members to their Branch
Chard Branch made welcome two new members to their Branch. Peter and Julie Burnett met members whilst attending the Remembrance Day service prior to meeting others members at the local Chard Veterans Breakfast Club in December. 
On attending the next meeting on Thursday 13th February they were made officially welcome by the Branch Chairman, S/m Andy O’Brien, and provided with their RNA cards and RNA Welcoming Pack. Area Deputy Chairman handover
From One Legend to Another
Twenty years after taking on the role of Deputy Chair for Area 4 of the Royal Naval Association, Shipmate Peter Shoesmith has passed on the baton
At the recent AGM, hosted by Dorchester Branch on 18th January 2025, Peter stepped down and handed over to Shipmate Ben Cartwright of the Portland Branch. Ben is also the Area 4 Standard Bearer
Shipmate Peter Shoesmith has now been elected as No4 Area DNCM. – Deputy National Council Member and looks forward to serving the RNA for many years to come – albeit at national level now.