This is the West Country- March 09

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RNAS Yeovilton take charge of the

Warneford VC narrowboat

 

 

THE Royal Naval Air Station at Yeovilton has taken delivery of a slightly different type of vessel.

The base now has a brand new narrowboat "Warneford VC" from boat builders ABC Leisure Group.

The Royal Naval Air Station’s Commanding Officer, Commodore Chris Palmer, together with his wife, Janet Palmer, traveled to Hilperton Marina at Trowbridge to take part in the launch ceremony.

Following with Royal Naval tradition, Mrs Palmer launched the boat with a bottle of champagne and then presented a Buckby Can to the narrowboat officer, Chief Petty Officer Steve Tidswell.

After thanking his wife for launching the boat, Commodore Palmer said: “It is fitting that in this Centenary year of Naval Aviation this narrowboat is named after out first naval aviation hero Lt Reginald Warneford.

"ABC Leisure have done a fantastic job building this boat; it is just magnificent."

"Available to naval families, this boat will also be used extensively by Naval personnel, especially those returning form Operations in Afghanistan."

"It will play a vital role in the rest and relaxation of those returning from these very high tempo theatres of operations.”

Warneford VC is available for use by all RNAS Yeovilton Personnel and those from other establishments for expeds or private hire.

It is moored on the Kennet and Avon Canal at Staverton Waterside Hilperton.

Volunteers, on behalf of HMS Herton Central Fund, administer the day-to-day running and overall maintenance of the Warneford VC.