On Thursday 23 October, Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) and the White Ensign Association (WEA) hosted a very special dinner in the Painted Hall at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich.
The event, which marked the 220th anniversary of the victory at the Battle of Trafalgar and the death of Admiral Lord Nelson, was attended by the Patron of RNRMC, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence with Michael Portillo delivering the keynote address.
This year's dinner brought together over 350 guests, including headline sponsors – Babcock, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin and Oaklin - alongside loyal supporters, local Greenwich residents, industry partners, friends of both charities, veterans and senior serving members of the Royal Navy.
The evening embraced naval traditions, including the ceremonial ‘Parading of the Beef’, chocolate ‘Ships of the Line’, a stirring performance of mess beatings by the Corps of Drums from the Royal Marines Band Service, and rousing sea shanties – all of which added to the maritime spirit of the occasion.
Reflecting on the evening, Samantha Nicolson Interim CEO of RNRMC remarked:
It was fantastic to co-host another memorable Trafalgar Night at the Painted Hall with the White Ensign Association and an honour for it to once again be in the presence of HRH The Princess Royal. Nights like these remind us of the strength and spirit which continue to drive RNRMC and WEA forward in support of the Naval Community.
Commodore Stuart Wright, Chief Executive of the White Ensign Association said:
It is a privilege to have partnered with RNRMC to mark the 220th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, a defining moment in our nation’s naval history. The men and women in today’s fleet do their duty just as the sailors and marines in Nelson’s fleet did over two centuries ago and so, alongside the RNRMC, it is an honour to support them, our veterans and their families.
Both organisations continue to play a vital role in supporting serving personnel, veterans, and their families, ensuring that the legacy of service and sacrifice is never forgotten.
A few words from our headline sponsors:
Dame Ruth Cairnie, Chair at Babcock
“We were proud to be a headline sponsor of the Trafalgar Night dinner, marking the 220th Anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar. It was a truly inspiring evening, raising crucial funds and awareness for both charities. At Babcock we’re committed to making a positive difference in the communities we’re proud to serve. Together, we’re building stronger connections and making a meaningful difference where it matters.”
Simon Lister, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Naval Ships business
"BAE Systems is honoured to continue its long-standing partnership with the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity through the sponsorship of Trafalgar Night 2025. The event stands as a lasting tribute to courage, leadership and service which are values that resonate deeply with both the Royal Navy and BAE Systems.
“Supporting the wider military family, during and after service, remains central to who we are and we take great pride in once again contributing to this distinguished celebration.”
Emlyn Taylor, Chief Operating Officer at Lockheed Martin UK
“At Lockheed Martin, we are proud to stand alongside the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) as one of the founding Platinum Partners. Supporting the RNRMC reflects our enduring commitment to the men and women of the Naval Service and their families, whose dedication inspires everything we do.”
Dominic Hurndall, Partner at Oaklin
“We are incredibly proud of our partnership with the RNRMC. It’s a chance for us to stay connected to the Royal Navy and to support the incredibly important work the charity does, particularly in the festive period where the need among those who are struggling is most acutely felt.”
