Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) was delighted to host a Reward and Recognition Reception at the Pickle Bar, HMS Nelson to thank and celebrate the individuals and organisations across the region who continue to champion the charity’s mission to support sailors, marines, and their families – for life.
The evening brought together a wide cross-section of the charity’s supporters. Admiral Sir Jonathon Band GCB DL, President of RNRMC welcomed guests including members of the charity’s Board of Trustees, dedicated volunteers, tireless fundraisers, local ambassadors, and valued corporate partners.
The event served as a heartfelt thank you to those who have shown unwavering commitment to RNRMC’s work over the past year. From community fundraisers to strategic supporters, each individual and organisation has played their part in helping the charity deliver lifelong support to our naval community.
Recognition certificates were awarded by Sir Jonathon and Lady Band, in the following categories:
Valkryies - In a landmark display of courage, endurance, and unity, the HMS Oardacious Valkyries have made Royal Navy history as the first all-female serving Royal Navy team to row across the Atlantic Ocean. Embarking on the 3,000-mile World’s Toughest Row in December 2024, the team—Lieutenant Commander Izzy Rawlinson, Lieutenant Commander Ali Aindow, Petty Officer Aaby Aldridge, and Lieutenant Commander Nic Hall—completed the crossing in 46 days, 12 hours, and 26 minutes, arriving in Antigua to a hero’s welcome.
Facing 40-foot waves, sleep deprivation, and the emotional challenge of being away from loved ones over Christmas, the team demonstrated extraordinary resilience and teamwork. Their mission extended beyond the physical feat; they raised funds for Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and the Young Women’s Trust, supporting mental health initiatives and empowering women in underrepresented fields.
Chris Terrill – In 2024, at the age of 72 , Honorary Royal Marine and RNRMC Ambassador Chris Terril, at just four months post-hip replacement, completed the Brighton Marathon on crutches in an impressive 6 hours, 11 minutes, and 11 seconds, setting a new Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon on crutches (male).
This remarkable achievement was undertaken in memory of his close friend, Commander Robert 'Bob' Hawkins MBE RN, and to raise funds for RNRMC. We recognise Chris's unwavering commitment to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines community. While his record has been broken, it is Chris’s intention to challenge and reclaim this record next year, continuing his legacy of support and inspiration.
Ellie Bainbridge - Royal Navy Reservist Ellie Bainbridge took on the Ultra X GB Slam in 2024, completing three 50km and three 110km ultra marathons, plus an Ultra Tour de Mont Blanc series race — an incredible journey six months after overcoming a severe ankle injury during a team building course at Britannia Royal Naval College. Once told she might never walk properly again, she defied the odds through determination and military physio support. Her dedication and support for RNRMC is truly inspirational.
Choo Choo fundraisers - On 9th February 2025, four Royal Navy servicemen — Krish Hook, Brett Cowan, George Tvrdeich, and Ben Willis — broke the world record for the fastest marathon in a four-person costume at Goodwood Racetrack. Running as Team His Majesty’s Choo Choo in a train costume, they finished in 3 hours and 50 minutes, beating the previous record by over 10 minutes in support of RNRMC.
HMS Sultan - HMS Sultan supported RNRMC by organising fundraising activities around the VE80 Commemorations. Lieutenant Danny Clarke organised an 80 km walk, a relay race, and a 5km run all undertaken across 24 hours. In addition, the Sultan Women’s and Allies Network organised a Bake-off. Over £3200 was raised. Accepting the award was Commander Lynne Anderson and Lt Tracey Parrott, who both completed the 80km (almost 50 miles!) walk to accept the award.
HMS Collingwood -RNRMC and HMS Collingwood support one another in numerous ways. Since January 2024, RNRMC have given 24 grants totaling over £52000 to fund a variety of projects, from team building activities to provision of an e-sports suite. We were also the charity of the year for the Warrant Officers’ and Senior Rates’ mess during 2024. Each year RNRMC is proud to sponsor Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity Field Gun Competition that is held at HMS Collingwood Open Day, and HMS Collingwood very kindly donate a percentage of the profits from the day back to RNRMC. Victory Squadron, based at HMS Collingwood have kindly provided volunteers to assist RNRMC with a number of activities. Finally, we were proud to give a grant towards VE80 tea party organised by Commander Mike Bray. The party, held in HMS Collingwood’s Wardroom, hosted 100 veterans including some World War Two veterans and a raffle was held to raise funds for RNRMC and The Not Forgotten.
Op Highmast - Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity sponsored Wellbeing Bags for the loved ones of those serving on Operation High Mast. We collaborated with other naval charities who provided literature to go in the specially printed bags along with our pocket guide to naval charities and our Strengthening Families booklet. 2000 bags were stuffed by corporate volunteers from Capita, Babcock and Thales, and distributed by our Community Engagement Team and Solent Support Group at pre-deployment briefings and families days.
MBDA - In recognition of their outstanding support and commitment, MBDA has played a pivotal role in advancing our charity’s mission through the Bridge Partnership, particularly in championing family initiatives and our neurodiversity project. Their enthusiastic involvement in volunteering activities, including life raft upcycling, and the exceptional contribution of their events team at the 2024 The Sky’s the Limit Ball - where they donned flight suits to boost fundraising efforts.
Powder Monkey - Powder Monkey has shown exceptional support for our charity, notably by brewing a bespoke The Sky’s the Limit beer enjoyed by guests on board HMS Prince of Wales at our flagship ball. Their ongoing contribution, including providing a bar at last summer’s Beating Retreat and supporting HMS Oardacious, demonstrate their commitment to supporting the Naval community. As proud Gold Bridge Partners, their partnership continues to make a meaningful impact.
RM Band service - W01 Julian "Jules" Cook, former PRO Jules has been a fantastic colleague and a key part of the strong relationship between the RM Band Service, RNRMC, and RMA-TRMC. We’re grateful for all his hard work and wish him every success in his new role.
Janet Hale, Janet Riddell, Paul 'Charlie' Charles, Mark Trainor -
We are deeply grateful to Janet, Charlie, and Mark for courageously sharing their stories, which were instrumental in the success of our 2024 Christmas appeal - our first-ever matched funding campaign - and the most successful appeal in the history of Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity. This incredible achievement would not have been possible without their incredible support.
Lieutenant Commander Gemma Winterton - Lieutenant Commander Gemma Winterton is recognised for her outstanding support of RNRMC. As a case study, advocate, and champion of inclusion, Gemma has shared her personal experiences to inspire others and raise awareness.
In her role as Vice Chair—and now Joint Chair—of RN Infinite, the RN’s Neurodiversity Network, she has also been instrumental in supporting RNRMC Neurodiversity Navigator initiative, helping to foster understanding and drive meaningful change across the naval community.
Solent Support Group - This wonderful group of volunteers support our Senior Engagement Officer Hilary in Portsmouth and surrounding areas. Some of the group have volunteered for over 11 years, whilst others have joined more recently. The group give up their time to help run fundraising and information stalls at families days and public events, and selling programmes at Royal Marines Band concerts and dressing as our mascots. The group helped at 20 events during 2024 and have already helped at 10 events this year, with many more planned, especially over the summer. The Solent Support Group really are the face of the charity in the local area and we couldn’t be without their support.
London Branch Type 42 Association - RNRMC is proud to be supported by the Type 42 Association who have raised money for RNRMC for a number of years, and who were awarded a recognition last year. This year we would like to give particular thanks to the London Branch of the Type 42 Association, whose members volunteer their time to help us at London events such as the Admiralty Carol Service in St Martin in The Field and Beating Retreat on Horseguards Parade. Rain or shine, the team always turn out to support us. “Dressing as veterans” as they call it, with their smart blazers and medals gets great reaction from the public, and their support is very much appreciated.
Susan Scott - Susan has been an invaluable member of our volunteer team, generously dedicating a day each week to support our corporate partnerships and events work. Her commitment has made a significant impact across multiple areas, particularly in the lead-up to our 2024 The Sky’s the Limit ball, where she played a key role in securing high-value auction prizes and corporate sponsorships. Her dedication and enthusiasm have greatly enhanced our fundraising efforts.
Admiral Sir Jonathon Band, President of RNRMC said:
These moments of recognition offered a chance to celebrate achievements, and reflect on the collective impact made possible through shared purpose and collaboration. The evening was a powerful reminder of the community which stands behind the Royal Navy and Royal Marines – and the vital role that each supporter plays in sustaining it.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to MBDA for generously sponsoring this Reward and Recognition event. Their support played a key role in helping us celebrate the incredible achievements and dedication of our community. With MBDA’s backing, we were able to create a memorable occasion that truly honoured the hard work and commitment of those we serve. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and continued support.
