The Queen Mother attended a rededication ceremony for the Ark Royal on Thursday, 20 years after she first saw the famed naval carrier off to sea. The nation’s favourite grandmother was flown to the Portsmouth site by helicopter for the ceremony, joining the crew in celebrating a £147 million refit of the Invincible class ship.
“I am so happy that I’m once again on board Ark Royal – I launched her and her predecessor,” said the 101-year-old royal. “So it’s wonderful to feel that now she’s going to be at sea and she’s guarding our shores just as in the days of yore.”
The Queen Mum, dressed in her traditional blue attire, demonstrated not only her indomitable strength but her keen sense of humour. In reference to the now retired tradition in which sailors were given a tot of rum on special occasions, she said: “Captain, splice the mainbrace!”.
Aided by two walking sticks, the Queen Mother toured the hangar and shook hands with military personnel on site. She was clearly a favourite of those gathered, with captain David Snelson calling her “the most gracious lady sponsor and a source of very special inspiration”.
“I cannot believe she is so sprightly,” said leading operator Marcus Bohlin. “I am coming up to 31 and I’m struggling.”
Following the ceremony, the ageing royal dined in the Captain’s cabin.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
