During a visit to HMS Lancaster in mid-February, the Master and Upper Warden discovered that some of the starboard crew had added yet another skill to their formidable abilities.

Following specialist training, the catering team are now chocolatiers and created an array of exquisitely decorated and mouth-watering hand-made chocolates to supplement their existing melt-in-the-mouth pastries, including croissants and pain au chocolat.

The fascinating morning included a view around the Officers’ Mess Headquarters – HMS Nelson – and a visit aboard HMS Defender one of the very latest type 45 destroyers, including the Bridge and Ops Room.

The Feltmakers were offered a sneak insight into the Navy’s current project, NavyX, bringing Autonomy and Lethality to Maritime Ops aboard The Patrick Blackett.

In addition, they learned more about HMS Lancaster’s history, including the role that fur and felt have had on Naval and Military headwear.

The Master noted: “HMS Lancaster enjoys showcasing its day to day work and the familial bond among the Starboard crew is tangible.  The crew also values the close association with the Feltmakers as much as we do with Lancaster”.

Written by Master Neil Edwards and Upper Warden, Simon Wilkinson