Gary Powell – HMS Arrow

If I remember correctly, HMS Arrow paid a visit to Tobermory on the Island of Mull in 1977. I think our Navvy came from there. Anyway, he organised a dance for the ships company in the village hall – NO BOOZE. We all smuggled bottles in.

About 7 years ago, my missus and I returned there. In the pub next to the jetty steps, they still had the ship’s plaque above the bar. I mentioned to the girl behind the bar that I was on the HMS Arrow on that occasion.

She said: “Oh yeah, that would have been when my GRANDPA had the pub.” Yeah. Thanks for that.

Gary Powell

(Photo of HMS Arrow is courtesy of the National Museum of Royal Navy)