Big guns roll out for us
 The event at HMS
Collingwood, which attracts teams from all over the UK, commemorates the drill bringing naval field guns, weighing the equivalent of a Ford Escort, into action during the Boer War of 1899.
Tournament
Many people will remember the Royal Navy Field Gun Competition from the Royal Tournament, which used to be shown every year on TV.
Although the team from the Faslane base missed out on a place in the final by an agonising six hundredths of a second, trainer Chief Petty Officer Charlie McKee explained how they were driven by the plight of the hospice children.
“The campaign for a new children’s hospice is something that has touched everyone’s heart in Scotland, especially those in the team because the Naval base is relatively close to the site of Robin House,” he enthused. “We chose CHAS as our charity as we are all aware of how vital it is to have a second children’s hospice up and running — and the involvement really put fire in our hearts.
“The crew were completely focused on their individual jobs in the team effort, but the extra incentive came in the knowledge that their efforts would help these courageous children.”
Leading Physical Trainer Andy “Sticky” Vercoe explained how high motivation and gritty determination are vital given the high levels of physical endurance, teamwork and discipline required for the event.
“The run involved the crew dismantling the gun and limber, moving it across an obstacle course, and putting it back together and then firing three rounds,” explained Sticky.
“During the run, the wheels are changed and the whole of the gun and limber are lifted off the ground — each member of the team has a precise role.
Timing is crucial
“This could be anything from pulling the pin in and out, carrying the wheels or even being the timekeeper. With the event being decided by hundredths of a second, timing is crucial.”
The gun crew refined their skills for a gruelling eight weeks in the build-up, training three hours a day, five days a week.
And as well as mastering the art of pulling the gun they also spent hours conditioning their bodies in the gym, where they were continually assessed by hardened Navy fitness trainers.
Lieutenant Lig Hill, official spokesperson for the base, said, “Naturally, the Navy are extremely proud of the crew and their achievements. They are big strapping lads and involved in a very hard game, but it shows a caring side when they are so willing to raise money for children with life-limiting conditions.
“It was a real team effort and we’d like to thank everyone who generously sponsored the team.
“We’re delighted to be part of The Sunday Post’s vital appeal.” |
You can e-mail us at:
hospice@sundaypost.com
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Every second — and a good deal of strength — counts as the
HMS Neptune team rush to reassemble their field gun.
