HRH The Princess Royal is guest of honour at Collingwood ceremonial event

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal paid a special visit to HMS Collingwood as the Reviewing Officer at the Establishment’s annual Ceremonial Divisions.

In addition to taking the salute from officers and ratings on parade, HRH The Priness Royal presented awards and prizes to a number of individuals reflecting both academic achievement and exemplary service.

Escorted by Captain Rob Vitali, the Captain of HMS Collingwood and the Maritime Warfare School, Her Royal Highness inspected the Guard of Honour before reviewing HM Royal Marines Band Collingwood, who provided the musical accompaniment throughout the event.

Addressing over 1,100 personnel from across the Maritime Warfare School and HMS Collingwood who had gathered for the parade Her Royal Highness said, “It's a real pleasure to be back at HMS Collingwood for the annual ceremonial divisions.

"Some of my family have had this experience – my grandfather King George VI served on the Dreadnought HMS Collingwood at the Battle of Jutland, commanding the forward gun turret. He would be fascinated with this evolution.” 

Captain Vitali said, “HMS Collingwood’s Annual Ceremonial Divisions is one of the rare occasions in the calendar when the entire Ship’s Company and professional courses gather in the unique environment of a Ceremonial Military Parade. 

"It is part of our Service culture and heritage for which we are known worldwide and it is a key demonstration of the pride we have in our country, our Service and, most importantly, ourselves. 

"It was our great privilege to welcome Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal to Collingwood this year as our Reviewing Officer.” 

Lieutenant Ewan Mackay was presented with the British Aerospace Sword by Her Royal Highness during the event. He said, “To win this award is special, but to have it presented to me by HRH The Princess Royal is overwhelmingly satisfying.”