On December 10, staff across HM Naval Base Clyde donned the spirit of Christmas by partaking in some festive fun activities. Although an early starter, the annual Santa Dash kicked off the festivities, setting the pace and mood for the rest of the day.
Starting and finishing at the Sportsdrome, runners were encouraged to dress in a festive theme and either run, walk, or jog the mile and a half course. Staff ran wearing Christmas hats and festive jumpers – one group even spelled out “XMAS!” across their t-shirts. The festive run was so fun even The Grinch came down from Mount Crumpit to join in the fun.
First Lieutenant HMNB Clyde, Lieutenant Commander (Lt Cdr) Philip Nicolson and Base Warrant Officer, Warrant Officer One (WO1) Keith McEwen were there to see the runners off and cheer them on as they made it back.
WO1 McEwen said: “The Santa Dash was really well attended by units across HMNB Clyde, and it was brilliant to see the high levels of morale and festive costumes despite the adverse weather conditions.”
After the excitement of early morning running, staff came together in harmony at St Mungo’s church to celebrate. Munching on mice pies and keeping toastie with some festive hot drinks, staff arrived early to the church, greeted by festively dressed members from the Chaplaincy team.
Personnel were encouraged to bring donations for this year’s chosen local charities.
Kind-hearted staff gave generously, and the church was soon filled with boxes of biscuits, sweets, toys, cosy pyjamas and lots more – all ready to be delivered to Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank, recipients from this year’s Giving Tree, and other local charities.
Once fed, attendees joined the church service led by Naval Base Chaplains and began with everyone singing “O Come All Ye Faithfull,” with live music provided by the Neptune Volunteer Band. A new format to the service this year saw staff acting out scenes from the Nativity story with a humours twist.
Lt Cdr Nicolson added: “The One Clyde Christmas service saw the whole Base come together to celebrate and offer some new and humorous takes on the nativity, as well as the usual festive favourite Christmas carols.”
The service was brought to a close as everyone sang “Hark! The Herald-Angels Sing.”
