A SENIOR naval officer recently honoured HMS Collingwood by presenting awards and opening five new bridge simulators.

Vice Admiral Martin Connell, the Second Sea Lord and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, was the guest of honour and reviewing officer at the base's annual Ceremonial Divisions.

He took the salute from personnel on parade and awarded individuals for academic success and service.

In procession with Captain Tim Davey, the Commanding Officer of HMS Collingwood, he inspected the Guard of Honour and witnessed a ceremonial Guard Display.

Daily Echo: 2SL with the guard2SL with the guard (Image: Supplied)

Post the ceremony, the Admiral inaugurated the new bridge simulators in the Endeavour Building, replacing outdated training tools from 2002.

This innovative project reflects a partnership between the Royal Navy, Team Fisher, Capita, Metaverse VR, and Kongsberg Digital, integrating VR tech with large visual displays.

Vice Adm Connell said: "It was an absolute privilege to review today’s excellent parade and meet the prizewinners and their families. It was also a pleasure to open the new Bridge simulators. This is a great example of the collaborative approach to training the future Navy."

Daily Echo: 2SL salutes the march past2SL salutes the march past (Image: Supplied)

Cpt Davey said: "HMS Collingwood’s annual Ceremonial Divisions is one of the rare occasions in the calendar when the entire Ship’s Company and our trainees gather on the Parade Ground to uphold the Royal Navy's ethos, teamwork, high standards and pride in our  Service.

"It was our great honour to welcome the Second Sea Lord this year as the Inspecting Officer, and to recognise our highest performing sailors in a special prize-giving ceremony."