HMS Bulwark leaves its mark

12/12/2008

HMS Bulwark is one of two Amphibious Assault Landing Platform Dock ships in the Royal Navy and has strong associations with the County and Diocese of Durham.

During the ship's short visit to the region in early December, Bishop Tom was invited to lead a special carol service on board. He was joined by a number of people from around the Diocese as well as members of the crew and officers.

The singing was led by members of the Durham Singers (left) with their Musical Director, Julian Wright, who is Bishop Tom's eldest son.

The occasion was also used as an opportunity to present a very generous cheque from the ship's fund raising efforts to Durham's Trinity Special Needs School.

Bulwark's crew, not only engage in fund-raising for charities and the organisations they support but they are also ready, willing and able to get involved in practical work in the community.

A detachment from HMS Bulwark (right) volunteered to brave winter conditions today to help a Co Durham community group. The men spent several hours clearing dead trees and building access ramps at Stanhope Rectory. Weardale CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) has just signed a five-year lease on the walled garden at Stanhope Rectory, home to Revd Susan Kent, Rector of the Benefice of Upper Weardale.

Weardale CSA has plans to develop the garden, growing vegetables and soft fruit there, using local volunteers, in addition to working their main 2-acre site at Frosterley.
More about Weardale CSA on page 10

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