Submariner's tale raises money for charity

Lieutenant Commander (Lt Cdr) Harry Nottley, who is currently serving within Royal Navy Submarine School, penned the story of 'Sammy the Submarine' back in 1996, as a way of explaining his job to his young children. 

With the Submarine School looking for ideas to raise money for the charity, Lt Cdr Nottley was persuaded to get his story out of the loft for it to be printed and sold.  The proceeds from the book added £450 to the charity pot.
 
The 44-year-old, from Plymstock said: 

"I was delighted at how quickly we sold the initial print run of 100 books and encouraged by the positive comments being made.  With the second run of books also selling well, I quickly became aware that not all the books were being purchased for young children and that a significant amount were being bought by adults with a Service interest. 

Both my sons, Jack and Owen, have always liked the story and art work.  Now that they are well into their teens I am pleased that, along with raising money for this worthwhile cause, there is the chance that it may be enjoyed by other children giving them a very basic introduction to the Submarine Service."  
 
All together the Royal Navy Submarine School presented a cheque for £1514 to the RNRMC.  As well as the book, the money was raised through the sale of 'Sammy the Submarine' mugs, submarine memorabilia, such as polo shirts, coasters and wine, and coffee mornings within the school.  Warrant Officer 1 Geoff Hurst was the co-ordinator of the charity efforts.
 
Receiving the cheque on behalf of the RNRMC, Cdre Chris Steel, retired, South West Ambassador for the charity, said: 

"The donation from the Submarine School represents considerable effort over the last 18 months, when taken alongside everyone's busy working life.  It is typical of the excellent efforts to raise money for such a good cause."
 
The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity provides a single focus for the charities that support serving and former members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.  It also embraces families, partners and dependents.  Further information is available on line at www.rnrmc.org.uk