Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.

News > College News > CCF benefit from OPs knowledge and expertise.

CCF benefit from OPs knowledge and expertise.

OP Andrew Adams (79-84) visited the College in November to share his knowledge and expertise with the CCF Royal Navy Section
Bends & Hitches
Bends & Hitches

On Thursday 16 November Andrew Adams (1979 to 1984, Hesperus) visited the College to share some of his extensive knowledge and practical working experience with our CCF Royal Naval cadets. On this occasion, he gave them an introduction to ‘Cordage - Bends and Hitches’ (aka Knots).

He also gave them an insight into the benefits of an education at the College in the late 1970s and early 1980s when Seamanship was a timetabled subject, you could achieve an O Level (former qualification to GCSEs) in Navigation, and there was life experience aboard MFV Sheemaun. The latter was a beautiful 1930s classic Gentleman’s Motor Yacht and an ideal boat in which to learn about the sea because of its generous accommodation, two engines, and gaff ketch rig.

From 1987 to 2022 Andrew served in the Royal Navy Reserves. He was appointed Skipper of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Rowbarge, Gloriana, from 2014 to 2022. With Ben Maxwell OP as First Mate, in July 2017 Andrew was the Skipper of Gloriana for the College’s Centenary Rowpast at Henley Royal Regatta.

Andrew described how on the day of Her Late Majesty’s funeral in September 2022 the Rowbarge was at Runnymede clad in black with oars tossed in salute as the cortege passed by and made its final journey to Windsor Castle. 

He also explained to the cadets that an important part of his career has been boat haulage. This has included looking after classic umpire launches, such as those used at Henley Royal Regatta, as well as being on the team of skippers of these special boats.

Thank you so much, Andrew, for coming!

 

Similar stories

Charlotte Bamforth

It's with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs Charlotte Bamforth, a much loved former staff member and highly valued member of the Pangbourne community. More...

On Friday 20 June, we celebrated our first but certainly not last, Pangbourne Proms event. This was a fantastic evening … More...

Founders’ Day, held on Saturday 5th July, was a fitting culmination to the academic year. Blessed with fine weather, th… More...

On Thursday 21st November we welcomed back to the College Paralympic Gold Medal holder Frankie Allen (OP 2015 - 20) for … More...

The annual showdown between the College’s current pupils and their more “experienced” predecessors took place at the spl… More...

Most read

Tom Spencer MEP

You are warmly welcomed to leave a message below, share your memories and celebrate the life of Tom Spencer (61 - 66) who we sadly lost in 2023. More...

Charlotte Bamforth

It's with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs Charlotte Bamforth, a much loved former staff member and highly valued member of the Pangb… More...

The Community comes together to celebrate

On Thursday 3 July, during a gloriously sunny afternoon, guests from across the entire College community joined members of our past Henley winning cr… More...

Have your say