HMS Ganges Ceremonial Mast, Shotley, Suffolk

[@theoccupier1652]

That is so sad :( I was there in 1970

[@finkployd8684]

Upsetting to see it like this. It used to be so well maintained in proper naval tradition. Entrants would arrive as boys and leave as men. Another shocking example of how far this country has fallen.

[@CaptTony]

Thanks for the response. You're correct, but there have been several naval training establishments closed over the years, but the navy still turns boys into men pretty quickly. I believe that, eventually, the Ganges mast will be refurbished and still stand, albeit in the centre of a housing estate.

[@CaptTony]

Thanks for the response. You're correct, but there have been several naval training establishments closed over the years. However the navy still turns boys into men pretty quickly. I believe that the mast will be refurbished and still stand in the future, albeit at the centre of a housing estate.

[@ronwilson9815]

Highest I got was Jacob's Ladder, which lead to the 'button', you wouldn't get me to go that high these days; as for going the hard way round the Devil's Elbow, no bloody chance! :D Interesting to see the CMG's and drill shed still there and the chiefs and PO's residences. Admin block where I got caned still there too.

[@CaptTony]

Thanks for the response Ron. I'm glad that I managed to bring back some memories for you, good and bad I'm sure. I joined the navy at Fisgard, so never had to experience the Ganges mast, and even if I had, I could never have seen myself getting so high as you did. Cheers

[@julieblackstock8650]

good to see what it looks like in there. this will be a time capsule when they put houses there

[@steveandrews5307]

the highest I got up the mast was to touch the cow horns. And coming down the jack stays.

[@CaptTony]

Thanks for the response. My video obviously brought back memories of your time in Ganges, which I hope were happy memories.