Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines had a starring role at the world premiere of James Bond No Time To Die in London last night.
Ten members of HMS Dragon’s crew lined the steps of the Royal Albert Hall before seeing their ship feature in the latest Bond spy film.
Music for the premiere was provided by the Portsmouth band of the Royal Marines, which sent 51 of its musicians to the event.
They too stepped inside to watch the film after performing on the red carpet and playing during the arrival of the Royal VIPs, HRH The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Colour Sergeant Dan Page, 33, who also performed at the premiere of Skyfall, said: “This is just like any other gig really, but certainly this one is a highlight of the year.”
Eighty armed forces personnel were gifted tickets as recognition of the role they played in the nation’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
CSgt Page was among ten band members who worked in hospitals across the south of England in key wards alongside the NHS.
Corporal Amy Phillips, 33, was back playing saxophone in her first gig with the band after 18 months working in the recruitment teams.
HMS Dragon is currently alongside in Portsmouth, meaning a small number of her sailors could represent the navy at the premiere.
Petty Officer Sally Hughes, 32, said: “I am extremely proud to be lining the red carpet with my ship mates at a world premiere after such a challenging year nationwide.”
Leading Supply Chain Craig Dearie, 29, from Glasgow, said: “It feels great to have been picked to go to the premiere. It is something I never believed I would have the opportunity to do.”
Bond actor Daniel Craig was made an Honorary Commander by First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Tony Radakin last week to reflect his fictional character’s Royal Navy pedigree.
Honorary officers in the Royal Navy bring a breadth of experience and contribute in their own distinct way to strengthen the navy’s ties with the communities it serves.
