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The Clerk, John White, at short notice received an invitation for the Paviors to visit HMS Argyll on 1st December. Thanks to the use of electronic means, 7 Members duly assembled at Devonport, Plymouth (there should have been 8 but one sailed down to Portsmouth in error!) and were duly conveyed to the frigate for a nine o'clock departure.
The day was grey a Force 6 gale blowing, so the seas were a bit lumpy to say the least. However, with the stabilisers deployed, the ship & crew did their best to smooth the trip down the Channel. Some of the visitors were a little queasy (including your Editor) but fresh air restored their spirits and all thoroughly enjoyed the sail.
We were treated to a guided tour to all parts of the frigate, including weapons and munitions and in the afternoon, when the wind had abated a little, we were given a demonstration of helicopter rescue, landing personnel to and from the decks.
The tour included the Galley where they prepared a sumptuous meal for our lunch, and we learned that they provide all meals to the crew 3 times a day (at a cost per man of only £2.04 per day!). After Lunch the award of the Paviors Man of the Year was made to Chief Petty Officer Andrew Wilkins for his outstanding character and leadership over the last year.
The presentation was made by John Price on behalf of the Paviors, and the 8th member of the Group who did not make the sailing, the Tankard would follow!
After a most interesting and enjoyable day we returned to dock around 4.30 pm, disembarked and went back to our various transports. An excellent day in spite of the weather.
Billy McCoubrey
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