memories .memories memories. wonderful place Ships company there then on to HMSFlintham
I remember VEPS sessions VP sherry and beer with a guy Ginge Bissett Jed Stone if I remember correctly was a tall built guy with a permanant 7 oclock shadow on his chin.Sad
that my thoughts are dimmed But a huge debt is owed by the country to some of the guys who passed through Ganges
This vid sent a tingle down my spine, I was there in 63, hated the place. So glad when I left there and joined my first ship, things only got better. Had a wonderful career, apart that is from Ganges, I left in 1988.
@bgm1948 strange as you loved it or hated it but either way you were trained well my Dad wanted to go there and he did feel like running away when he got there but after he loved the place and as a boy I only heard good things from him about it, he talked with much affection for it, but he never said it was easy!
I was at Ganges in 1957 Blake Div 4 mess -class 272. Really tough place to learn how to look after yourself . Very tough instructors but mostly very fair. Punishments like double around the parade ground in full gear with rifle above your head and the dreaded Shotley Routine up and down Laundry Hill was a killer. Fezz Parker
The Button Boy in this video was my Dad. (We can tell by the ears and the date, oh and the fact we know what he looked like then.) We only just found this film tonight, and Mum was overjoyed. I never knew. 15 years old and climbing that mast! I'm so proud.
WISDOM IS STRENGTH, Motto on the GANGES CREST. Ganges Boy 1962,an still sound a Bugle! Great place, tough ,fair, set you up for life.No regrets do it all again,more pay would br nice. Equivalent of 75 pence a week in my day,all the grub you could eat,and lots of clothes ,,,,,mostly errrrr blue!
@billydelaney1 Thanks for dropping by Bill and for the comment you are like my father he LOVED that place I still to this day Clean my shoes a la Ganges style like he tought me...lol
@billydelaney1 I am extremely jealous of you! Id love to have gone to Ganges and continue that proud naval tradition! It was an absolute farce that they even considered closing her down. god, I wish Id been born 60 years ago : /
Like most posts here, this brings back memories. Although I entered Ganges in November 1974 at the age of 16, it was the toughest place I remember. I wanted to leave after 4 weeks, but my mum wouldn't let me come home, so I endured, and did my full 9 years + boy service!! I'm glad I stayed!! Hahaha, wish I could wind the clock back!!
I had the honour, and I really mean this, of working with a H.M.S. Ganges lad of the class of 1936. John Penry (Jack) Philips taught me a lot about being hard nosed, honest and self disciplined. Much of the man he became was forged at Ganges and he endevoured to pass on a little of his training to me, a gauche apprentice in his charge.
God bless you Jack and all the other 'Jacks' that went through the one of the best traing establishments that this country has known, or ever likely to know.
@brianogog Hi, I was in Frobisher, 41 Rec, JRO Naraghi, i was called "Kendo", "Nagasaki", amongst other things, failed my course, shipped out to HMS Raleigh, changed to TAS (W), then went to HMS Vernon.
Hi I was the button boy in 19 67. The Blue peter crew filmed the mast manning which was televised. this featured myself taking John knox up the mast. ( he didn't quite make the button, it was a brave attempt. also present was Vallery Singleton. Whom I persuaded to give me a quick kiss( not on the film). If anybody knows where I can get a copy of the blue peter episode I would be very thankful. I received a mounted crown piece. Which I still have, its dated 1960. Regards Rob bie.
Brilliant, it brings back memories, I was in the Team in 1968 where we climbed the mast under flood lights in the November it was very windy as I remember. We had to stay up there while they played "Sunset" then cleared the mast as fast as possible, my position was number 4 top rigging starboard side. I climbed to the button twice during practice.
We were given a weekend pass as a reward for our performance (unusual) .
Nick Clarke, Drake division: No 4 recruitment 1968
That's brought back memories, I was in the team in 1968 where we done it under flood lights, it was in the November and very windy but we still went up. We were rewarded with a weekend pass (unusual). Climbed to the button twice and stood up!!! I look back and think I must have been mental, but glad I did it. Yes the C.P.O's & P.O's were bastards but that just made a man of you.
I was there in 1964 and loved every minute of it. (sadist or what?!!) Returned there in 1968 as ships company draft. Sad to see the state of the place now. Even sadder to see the state of our Navy. Nelson must be spinning in his grave!
willlie downes blake 8 66. have just finished fictional book based on my time at Ganges.Any Ganges rating will relate to almost every chapter of the book. It comes out on Amazon in the next week. MAST OF FEAR, tales from the lower deck. I also sat on the button ,but could never find the nerve to stand up
RAN Junior Recruit from 64 here, was a great way to grow up, brother followed 2 years later. a note, the current Chief of the Navy here is an ex Junior Recruit.
Brings back old memories, was there in 63/64 Blake division top of long covered way. Always remember one Sunday afternoon rec climb three of us went up to the button together and each parked a tiny piece of cheek on it and all hanging off the lightning conductor, unfortunately the PO on the main gate spotted us and sent us doubling around the parade ground for an hour............Happy days. Jim Peggie.
wow, great vid that brings back horrendous memories lol....I was a trog '64-65 (72 recruitment). I was one of the brave ones that only went up as far as the half moon...but after 12 months at Ganges, the remaining 11years in the 'andrew' was a doddle lol
What a great post WELLBRAN. That so takes me back! 15, straight from school to the Ganges Annex where they proceeded to try to break you before you marched over to the main base! 1 round of compulsory boxing (thank hell I did some a bit at junior level because I was paired against a Welsh guy built like a mountain!)
I had forgotten how quickly they cleared the mast at the end of the display!
Hard discipline but it set me up for the rest of my life.
Thankfully for me,the practice of climbing the mast had been done away with when i joined Ganges in Sept 1975,but you were encouraged to "Have a Go" on Sundays...I remember a chap from my mess( Jed Stone )climbing up & standing On The Button"
@gotland483 I heard about that mate, joined Ganges Sept 30th 1975, 911 class, Fearless division, personally i didnt much fancy a trip to the button!!! Ganges wasnt much fun at the time but looking back i,d love to get the chance to do it all again!!
i was there in 1956,liked the whole year except the running up faith,hope ,and charity,and getting a bo... king. for haveing a dirty cap going to the gym,it was raining and our caps were blanco,d ,hello ,it runs in the rain,but i think the pti,s could,nt understand that,dhoo
This is a great video. I was there in 1968 Frobisher 34 mess. Would like to get in touch with old shipmates Pete Townsend, Phil Bradshaw. Yes great times indeed.
Our village on Salt Spring Island was named for the first HMS Ganges, the last active warship under sail in the Royal Navy, and patrolled these waters in the 19th century.
Memories. Shinned up the pole. Never had the bottle to swing over the button though. I regret that as I would do it now. 55 years old and still kicking.
Joined Ganges 1970. Apart from home sickness (big fibbers anyone who wasn't) it was a revelation. Fond memories. Can't remember who was there with me but I am sure it's some of you. Anyone who wants to reply is welcome.
Brilliant. My late partner Ian Beard was a Ganges Boy,B 4 that A Arethusa boy.Ihave a Shotley magazine dated 1966'im assuming that was his time. Does anyone know him Les do u i have seen ur name on Ganges sites.Brillant piece of film thanks.Never realised it was that hard
Bill all i have is the easter 1966 magazine and parents day magaziine dated 23/7 66 plus HMS Eagle book with Naval Airman (AH3)Ian Beard L090081.I don't even know what this number means.thanks for trying to help.I dont even know what u mean by what recruitment he was. suppose I shoud have asked more.any help i would appreciate
Hullo Kate, I was at ganges in 1966 and the mag you have shoiuld have a pghoto of some boys in nelson hall with one of them named R Hind. That be me. can't say I knew your mate though. best wishes, Bob Hind, Porsmouth
i was there in 1956,hard going but it made me grow up fast ,some of the p.o,s were a bit ott but we got over it.The only thing i could not understand was when we had p.e and had to double to the gim in the rain why were we punished if our caps had blanco running down our faces,;hello;its raining and blanco gets washed off?
fantastic piece of film, brings back a lot of memories for me as I was there in 1949. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. It taught us how to take care of ourselves, and how to care for others. 15 year olds today should be able to experience a place like Ganges.
Thanks for your comment nice to hear from and ex Ganges lad, my Dad was therte in 39/40 and welocme to youtube, lots of good stuff here and lots of rubbish also!
Blake Division, Long Covered Way 1973-4. Great times although tough, the Chair Tricks team and doing the Royal Tournament & Colchester Tattoo was a fantastic Time.
Was it hard ? Yeah but it didn`t kill me and sure there were kids, 16 yo`s, who dropped out but we were training to go to war and the enemy wouldn`t be nice to you.
Hello, what a wonderful piece of footage. I am so glad to have found it. Just yesterday I found myself thinking about my father an awful lot, I loved him dearly and he was a very proud man of his time in the Royal Navy. His name was Robert Dennis Archdale and he started service on HMS Ganges 21st September, 1936. He served for 24 years. I know very little about this time in his life and now I want to discover it all. All I have is his records of service. Thank you for this starting point.
hi, i live in shotley near where the hms ganges is today. it's still up. im 11 and i allwayes walk throuth now we are allowed i lern about it in school. i think it's really fasernating........lol
S J Coates. I am trying to track down the location of the figurehead of HMS St Vincent. It used to stand in the gateway of HMS St Vincent in Gosport, but isn't there now. If anyone can suggest where it might be, please let me know. I am hoping to bring an elderly relative to see it - he trained as a boy sailor at St Vincent. As children we used to watch manning the mast as a treat, especially when there was a fireworks display. Brave boys, brave men.
hi. i was in benbow 1965-66 ive often tried to get a piece of film of the manning of the mast, its hard to explain just what it was like to someone who has never seen it. and to the guys who were also in benbow well i carnt remember my mess number but i was in benbow 120 class if anyone else was get in touch, and congratulations on a great piece of film. ps i am 59 now just for the record lol.
The little chap in front of the camera as they all march out the gate is my dad, MALCOLM MACALLISTER!! He is just the same now - even his hair is black and white!!!
He loves seeing all his old mates - at the moment he is taking a computer course and becoming a "Silver Surfer" so I expect you will here from him soon!
Spookie !!!! I have just watched this video and I am on the RHS of the 3 in the front line as the class (Exmouth 33) marches out of the gates at the beginning. We joined in March 1959. Don't remember this film being taken !!!!! We are hoping to have a 50th reunion in March.
I was at Ganges 15 March 1949. as far as I know no one fell from the mast. One did die running around the sports field with a 4.5 shell on his shoulder.Punishment for not paying attention at gun drill. Bernard
All I can remember is a drumbeat,we all went for it on the third beat...I was told that the climbing music was the 'Cordelia Fanfare',named from HMS Cordelia,hope it helps...but it was many years ago now.
I was in Anson 24 mess, bottom right of Long Covered Way, right next to Faith, Hope and Charity. Instructors were PO. Garner and CPO. Bentley. I did "button boy", only on recreation, just to prove to myself that I could. Bless all you sailors.
Amazing!!! I'm a young wren in todays navy, Raleigh isn't a patch on Ganges by the look of it. My Uncle Kevin Steele passed out of Ganges in the 70's anyone know him?
excellent video. Brings back old memories and i was there in 74 for the 6 weeks before going on to mercury. All said and done about Ganges i wish i was there now or could go back and do it again. fantastic. kevin grundy jro2
My grandfather joined GANGES as a boy seaman at 14 years of age in 1934 and went on to go through the war till he was discharged in 1950. He served aboard HMS DORSETSHIRE during the BISMARCK sinking, and was aboard when DORSETSHIRE was sunk in 1942. He sadly passed away in 2005.
Could I ask what was your grandfathers name? My Father (Now 89) was also aboard Dorsetshire during WW2 both for the Bismarck and its own sinking in 1942. His best friend onboard was also a Ganges boy seaman who was a pre-war button boy.
yes i remember the cuts new a few lads who had them, i usually just got put on commanders 9a,s anyone remember them the cuts may have been better, would like to hear from anyone who remembers me!!!
great video i was in Duncan 11 mess 1965, gave me the shivers thinking about the gi's, i was also in the band what a great skive thanks again time for a sticky bun
Hi that was a cool vid. I have a friend whoes grandfather was on HMS Ganges in 1920.Does anyone know what was going on with the ship at that time? :-) Thanks lots! Donald.
Great video, brought back many memories.The Health and Safety brigade would have kittens eeing the mast manning.I think the yarn about the PTI falling through the mail office roof was probably a myth as I heard that same story when I was at Ganges July 54 to October 55. 19 Mess, Grenville Division. Des Young
ThanKs Wellbran, great vid,brought tears to my eyes and pride to my heart.I was there 1960/1.Drake 40 mess,we did mast manning for the Queens visit,L/Jnr lee Smith was button boy. I lasted another 26 years after Ganges.Thanks again
Was in Anson 24 mess in 1959 where I trained as a sparker. Never set foot in the place again but did take a walk along the foreshore whilst waiting for the Harwich-Hook van Holland ferry sometime in the 1990's.
Great video WELLBRAN thanks for posting it. I was also in Benbow 27 mess 65/66. Never did stand up on the button, sat on it once and had to change the shorts afterwards. I did hear a story about a boot neck who climbed the mast drunk, fell and went through a roof, but I don't know if its true or not, perhaps the HMS Ganges museum situated in the old Enright block can answer this one.
Thank you for posting this WELLBRAN. I took part in the Remembrance Day Parade in London on 11.11 this year (2007) and our platoon mustered next to the HMS Ganges Boys so we were able to exchange ditties about the good old days when .........! Shep Woolley was taking charge of the Ganges Mob.Naturally they had to march behind us because we are the far more important HMS ST VINCENT boys! Watch our Video!
JUSR WINDING YOU ALL UP ... I can remember going on leave from this place and being called a sea cadet ???? If you managed to get through Ganges you were pretty good ......GREAT good one wellbran
Did any of these boys actually join the NAVY ... Perhaps todays sea cadets would like an establishment to go to for weekends and long training holidays like these boys did
My late father did a stint as 'button boy'back in the 1920's - God bless him! If we still had this kind of training then I believe we would still be the best in the world! God bless you lads - and thanks keeping us safe! God save the Queen!
I was in the dental dept/sick berth staff from 65to 68.looked in on the place a few weeks ago.Now a thriving Marina.What`s happening to the re-development of the site?
I remember the SP trying to round me up in Ipswich for being in the out of bounds "Blue Coat Boy" whilst waiting for a bus, fortunately I was coming home on leave from Devonport so was left alone....Nice little HMS Ganges Museum on the new Shotley marina now. The Bristol arms serves a nice meal now.
being one of the poor trogs that went through this place twice. once as a recruit 1969 and once as a new entry instructor 1976 this has bought back many memories
There were fatalities there but not from the mast, as far as I know, However many boys fell from the Masts of the original HMS Ganges which was an actual ship anchored in Mylor Falmouth Cornwall UK. They are buried at Mylor Church yard. there is a monument there also.
I think the rumour was during 1960/1 that a drunk ships company (training staff)Physical Training Instuctor died falling from the mast during a night-time climb.
Hi Royalnavy200, can't remember the"Cuts" do remember the Long/short covered ways... the annex.. Friday night routine.. Mr Fisk.. etc etc. Captain Place was I think the nicest officer I ever met. Many good memories, a few bad ones, It certainly changed my life.
Regards, Mick
PS; might be an idea to change your details just in case Wellbran exposes you as well lol.
Yes I was there in 1964 although I did not have the privalege of receiving "cuts" my mate did and became renown for being a regular recipient! We have just formed a reunion of some of our Hawke Division after 40+ years!
Can't belive that's what my grandad had too do. Makes me proud.
hazz21 3 weeks ago
memories .memories memories. wonderful place Ships company there then on to HMSFlintham
I remember VEPS sessions VP sherry and beer with a guy Ginge Bissett Jed Stone if I remember correctly was a tall built guy with a permanant 7 oclock shadow on his chin.Sad
that my thoughts are dimmed But a huge debt is owed by the country to some of the guys who passed through Ganges
Sad to see the place as it is
Pigloop1 1 month ago
@Pigloop1 Nice that it brought back memories for you, and your quote :
"a huge debt is owed by the country to some of the guys who passed through Ganges" is the best quote made here.
WELLBRAN 1 month ago
This vid sent a tingle down my spine, I was there in 63, hated the place. So glad when I left there and joined my first ship, things only got better. Had a wonderful career, apart that is from Ganges, I left in 1988.
bgm1948 2 months ago
@bgm1948 strange as you loved it or hated it but either way you were trained well my Dad wanted to go there and he did feel like running away when he got there but after he loved the place and as a boy I only heard good things from him about it, he talked with much affection for it, but he never said it was easy!
WELLBRAN 2 months ago in playlist Uploaded videos
Button boy got some balls
type42sheff 3 months ago
I was at Ganges in 1957 Blake Div 4 mess -class 272. Really tough place to learn how to look after yourself . Very tough instructors but mostly very fair. Punishments like double around the parade ground in full gear with rifle above your head and the dreaded Shotley Routine up and down Laundry Hill was a killer. Fezz Parker
7thsubmarines 5 months ago
turn the clock back and give the kids today a chance to shine . god bless the senior service
dave2806 7 months ago
The Button Boy in this video was my Dad. (We can tell by the ears and the date, oh and the fact we know what he looked like then.) We only just found this film tonight, and Mum was overjoyed. I never knew. 15 years old and climbing that mast! I'm so proud.
sunchilde 7 months ago
@sunchilde How wonderful.
jjmd280 7 months ago
I was born there 1968 :)
whizzyknickers 7 months ago
My father was a PO
whizzyknickers 7 months ago
WISDOM IS STRENGTH, Motto on the GANGES CREST. Ganges Boy 1962,an still sound a Bugle! Great place, tough ,fair, set you up for life.No regrets do it all again,more pay would br nice. Equivalent of 75 pence a week in my day,all the grub you could eat,and lots of clothes ,,,,,mostly errrrr blue!
bluejacketbugler 7 months ago
I joined the Ganges (ANSON18) in October 1958 ..Bobby Law
19531943 7 months ago
closed the year i joined . senior service all the way !
dave2806 8 months ago
What a brilliant piece of film
bluesubmariner1 8 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
I joined Ganges in july 1971. Rodney Division 44mess. OEM.
Climbed the mast stood on the button of a sports day in August.
Life changing establishment that defined a lot of my life. It was the best year I have spent out of 56 so far.
All us kids, those brutal PO's and I even made it to being a badge boy and the drum major of the Bugle band.
Excellent times
All the best
Billy Delaney D123288T
billydelaney1 8 months ago
I joined Ganges in july 1971. Rodney Division 44mess. OEM.
Climbed the mast stood on the button of a sports day in August.
Life changing establishment that defined a lot of my life. It was the best year I have spent out of 56 so far.
All us kids, those brutal PO's and I even made it to being a badge boy and the drum major of the Bugle band.
Excellent times
All the best
Billy Delaey
billydelaney1 8 months ago
@billydelaney1 Thanks for dropping by Bill and for the comment you are like my father he LOVED that place I still to this day Clean my shoes a la Ganges style like he tought me...lol
WELLBRAN 8 months ago
@billydelaney1 I am extremely jealous of you! Id love to have gone to Ganges and continue that proud naval tradition! It was an absolute farce that they even considered closing her down. god, I wish Id been born 60 years ago : /
IRememberTheOldDays 6 months ago
Comment removed
IRememberTheOldDays 6 months ago
D147148A Ganges Nov 74.
JesuismyKing 9 months ago
Did my basic here 1974
Thisbloodypave 9 months ago
Like most posts here, this brings back memories. Although I entered Ganges in November 1974 at the age of 16, it was the toughest place I remember. I wanted to leave after 4 weeks, but my mum wouldn't let me come home, so I endured, and did my full 9 years + boy service!! I'm glad I stayed!! Hahaha, wish I could wind the clock back!!
JesuismyKing 10 months ago
I had the honour, and I really mean this, of working with a H.M.S. Ganges lad of the class of 1936. John Penry (Jack) Philips taught me a lot about being hard nosed, honest and self disciplined. Much of the man he became was forged at Ganges and he endevoured to pass on a little of his training to me, a gauche apprentice in his charge.
God bless you Jack and all the other 'Jacks' that went through the one of the best traing establishments that this country has known, or ever likely to know.
canopus101 11 months ago
@brianogog Hi, I was in Frobisher, 41 Rec, JRO Naraghi, i was called "Kendo", "Nagasaki", amongst other things, failed my course, shipped out to HMS Raleigh, changed to TAS (W), then went to HMS Vernon.
Ganges was the best part of my life.
BJDorset 11 months ago
Hi I was the button boy in 19 67. The Blue peter crew filmed the mast manning which was televised. this featured myself taking John knox up the mast. ( he didn't quite make the button, it was a brave attempt. also present was Vallery Singleton. Whom I persuaded to give me a quick kiss( not on the film). If anybody knows where I can get a copy of the blue peter episode I would be very thankful. I received a mounted crown piece. Which I still have, its dated 1960. Regards Rob bie.
robbiecando 1 year ago
Brilliant, it brings back memories, I was in the Team in 1968 where we climbed the mast under flood lights in the November it was very windy as I remember. We had to stay up there while they played "Sunset" then cleared the mast as fast as possible, my position was number 4 top rigging starboard side. I climbed to the button twice during practice.
We were given a weekend pass as a reward for our performance (unusual) .
Nick Clarke, Drake division: No 4 recruitment 1968
MrNickyclarke 1 year ago
That's brought back memories, I was in the team in 1968 where we done it under flood lights, it was in the November and very windy but we still went up. We were rewarded with a weekend pass (unusual). Climbed to the button twice and stood up!!! I look back and think I must have been mental, but glad I did it. Yes the C.P.O's & P.O's were bastards but that just made a man of you.
Nick Clarke Drake Division, No:4 recruitment 1968
MrNickyclarke 1 year ago
What is the song/march starting at 0:43 called? Thanks
flosssock 1 year ago
mr boomjockey for a shilling the button would have been crowded it was weeks pay
MrBoomjockey 1 year ago
in my time a shilling was a weeks pay
MrBoomjockey 1 year ago
The best of the best were Ganges boys.
UBIQUEROL 1 year ago
I was there in 1964 and loved every minute of it. (sadist or what?!!) Returned there in 1968 as ships company draft. Sad to see the state of the place now. Even sadder to see the state of our Navy. Nelson must be spinning in his grave!
shadoogie61 1 year ago
willlie downes blake 8 66. have just finished fictional book based on my time at Ganges.Any Ganges rating will relate to almost every chapter of the book. It comes out on Amazon in the next week. MAST OF FEAR, tales from the lower deck. I also sat on the button ,but could never find the nerve to stand up
runashore 1 year ago
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runashore 1 year ago
RAN Junior Recruit from 64 here, was a great way to grow up, brother followed 2 years later. a note, the current Chief of the Navy here is an ex Junior Recruit.
bubblesron 1 year ago
Brings back old memories, was there in 63/64 Blake division top of long covered way. Always remember one Sunday afternoon rec climb three of us went up to the button together and each parked a tiny piece of cheek on it and all hanging off the lightning conductor, unfortunately the PO on the main gate spotted us and sent us doubling around the parade ground for an hour............Happy days. Jim Peggie.
superpeploe 1 year ago
Great memories,of our Holiday camp on Shotley peninsular! Waited on hand and foot with tender love and care!!
bluejacketbugler 1 year ago
wow, great vid that brings back horrendous memories lol....I was a trog '64-65 (72 recruitment). I was one of the brave ones that only went up as far as the half moon...but after 12 months at Ganges, the remaining 11years in the 'andrew' was a doddle lol
poorlypaid 1 year ago
My Grandfather Trained at HMS Ganges! He was also a Button Boy too!!! This is a great Video!!!
SevenSeas31 1 year ago
my grandad was a ganges lad he was there in 61/62
TheDirtrider65 1 year ago
What a great post WELLBRAN. That so takes me back! 15, straight from school to the Ganges Annex where they proceeded to try to break you before you marched over to the main base! 1 round of compulsory boxing (thank hell I did some a bit at junior level because I was paired against a Welsh guy built like a mountain!)
I had forgotten how quickly they cleared the mast at the end of the display!
Hard discipline but it set me up for the rest of my life.
Llamehtdos2 1 year ago
Proud to be a 'Ganges Boy' (1970). Scared me to death climbing to the half moon, so I joined the bugle band!!
johnwbarney 1 year ago
Jed Stone climbed to the top ,& stood on the Button in Sept 1975
gotland483 1 year ago
Thankfully for me,the practice of climbing the mast had been done away with when i joined Ganges in Sept 1975,but you were encouraged to "Have a Go" on Sundays...I remember a chap from my mess( Jed Stone )climbing up & standing On The Button"
gotland483 1 year ago
@gotland483 I heard about that mate, joined Ganges Sept 30th 1975, 911 class, Fearless division, personally i didnt much fancy a trip to the button!!! Ganges wasnt much fun at the time but looking back i,d love to get the chance to do it all again!!
magicmaybach 1 year ago
I did my 6 weeks training there (16th September 1975)..Boy was it grim!
gotland483 1 year ago
@gotland483
BJDorset 11 months ago
@gotland483 6 weeks!!!!! It was a bit longer when I was there, 4 weeks new entry training just for starters.
BJDorset 11 months ago
i was there in 1956,liked the whole year except the running up faith,hope ,and charity,and getting a bo... king. for haveing a dirty cap going to the gym,it was raining and our caps were blanco,d ,hello ,it runs in the rain,but i think the pti,s could,nt understand that,dhoo
Love the video,braught back lots of memory,s
cheers,
jim
pj961971 1 year ago
Dj949158 was there in 1955 it was hard but enjoyable, did the button just for fun. Have posted this on Facebook for my Grandsons.
shonthebop 1 year ago
This is a great video. I was there in 1968 Frobisher 34 mess. Would like to get in touch with old shipmates Pete Townsend, Phil Bradshaw. Yes great times indeed.
clousta1 1 year ago
Well done,
A great piece of history
frankklaassen 1 year ago
did anyone ever fall off
seadog31 1 year ago
My Dad served on the Ganges in 1964
dminalba 2 years ago
ive stood on the button before
obiously not on the mas but i have seen the mast all closed down :( but now i have noticed they have put the wire things back on recently :)
acecalumkl 2 years ago
My Grandfather got button boy for going to the top. He says its a disgrace that the mast is in disrepair
marctb1 2 years ago
I live in Ganges, B.C.
Our village on Salt Spring Island was named for the first HMS Ganges, the last active warship under sail in the Royal Navy, and patrolled these waters in the 19th century.
AcePilot101 2 years ago
Memories. Shinned up the pole. Never had the bottle to swing over the button though. I regret that as I would do it now. 55 years old and still kicking.
jsnftije 2 years ago
Joined Ganges 1970. Apart from home sickness (big fibbers anyone who wasn't) it was a revelation. Fond memories. Can't remember who was there with me but I am sure it's some of you. Anyone who wants to reply is welcome.
jsnftije 2 years ago
Brilliant. My late partner Ian Beard was a Ganges Boy,B 4 that A Arethusa boy.Ihave a Shotley magazine dated 1966'im assuming that was his time. Does anyone know him Les do u i have seen ur name on Ganges sites.Brillant piece of film thanks.Never realised it was that hard
beardysgirl 2 years ago
I was in Anson Division in 66, do you know what recruitment he was?
Cheers Bill
madbillt66 2 years ago
Bill all i have is the easter 1966 magazine and parents day magaziine dated 23/7 66 plus HMS Eagle book with Naval Airman (AH3)Ian Beard L090081.I don't even know what this number means.thanks for trying to help.I dont even know what u mean by what recruitment he was. suppose I shoud have asked more.any help i would appreciate
Kate
beardysgirl 2 years ago
Hi ,I was there then, I will MSG you,hopefully point you in the right direction !
Cheers Bill
madbillt66 2 years ago
Thanks
Kate
beardysgirl 2 years ago
Hullo Kate, I was at ganges in 1966 and the mag you have shoiuld have a pghoto of some boys in nelson hall with one of them named R Hind. That be me. can't say I knew your mate though. best wishes, Bob Hind, Porsmouth
tcsbob2 2 years ago
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jamesmmann 1 year ago
that kid who climbed to the very top and the stood there...amazing !
granskare 2 years ago 2
Yes you are right amazing
WELLBRAN 2 years ago
@WELLBRAN I wonder how many fell off?
chanctonbury63 1 year ago
i was there in 1956,hard going but it made me grow up fast ,some of the p.o,s were a bit ott but we got over it.The only thing i could not understand was when we had p.e and had to double to the gim in the rain why were we punished if our caps had blanco running down our faces,;hello;its raining and blanco gets washed off?
pj961971 2 years ago
fantastic piece of film, brings back a lot of memories for me as I was there in 1949. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. It taught us how to take care of ourselves, and how to care for others. 15 year olds today should be able to experience a place like Ganges.
chaliang1 2 years ago
Thanks for your comment nice to hear from and ex Ganges lad, my Dad was therte in 39/40 and welocme to youtube, lots of good stuff here and lots of rubbish also!
WELLBRAN 2 years ago
@chaliang1 I was there in 1971, 15 year olds of today would cry
MrRobdeone56 11 months ago
Blake Division, Long Covered Way 1973-4. Great times although tough, the Chair Tricks team and doing the Royal Tournament & Colchester Tattoo was a fantastic Time.
Was it hard ? Yeah but it didn`t kill me and sure there were kids, 16 yo`s, who dropped out but we were training to go to war and the enemy wouldn`t be nice to you.
Great times fondly remembered.
carl2456 2 years ago
Hello, what a wonderful piece of footage. I am so glad to have found it. Just yesterday I found myself thinking about my father an awful lot, I loved him dearly and he was a very proud man of his time in the Royal Navy. His name was Robert Dennis Archdale and he started service on HMS Ganges 21st September, 1936. He served for 24 years. I know very little about this time in his life and now I want to discover it all. All I have is his records of service. Thank you for this starting point.
CerebralJam 2 years ago
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Berniemacify 2 years ago
hi, i live in shotley near where the hms ganges is today. it's still up. im 11 and i allwayes walk throuth now we are allowed i lern about it in school. i think it's really fasernating........lol
shotleycardcollector 2 years ago
Shame they don't "lern" you how to spell!
I was there in 1970. Hated every minute.
roblin50 2 years ago
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Berniemacify 2 years ago
S J Coates. I am trying to track down the location of the figurehead of HMS St Vincent. It used to stand in the gateway of HMS St Vincent in Gosport, but isn't there now. If anyone can suggest where it might be, please let me know. I am hoping to bring an elderly relative to see it - he trained as a boy sailor at St Vincent. As children we used to watch manning the mast as a treat, especially when there was a fireworks display. Brave boys, brave men.
withyworks 2 years ago
there is a hms st vincent association website perhaps they might help
royalnavy200 2 years ago
hi. i was in benbow 1965-66 ive often tried to get a piece of film of the manning of the mast, its hard to explain just what it was like to someone who has never seen it. and to the guys who were also in benbow well i carnt remember my mess number but i was in benbow 120 class if anyone else was get in touch, and congratulations on a great piece of film. ps i am 59 now just for the record lol.
lesgray 2 years ago
back then ships were made of wood and men were made of steel. rule brittania god save the queen.ex royal navy missileman
harvysmoon 2 years ago
that button boy is a fine fellow
bearsagainstevil 3 years ago
The little chap in front of the camera as they all march out the gate is my dad, MALCOLM MACALLISTER!! He is just the same now - even his hair is black and white!!!
He loves seeing all his old mates - at the moment he is taking a computer course and becoming a "Silver Surfer" so I expect you will here from him soon!
Stuart MacAllister
BRFCPirate 3 years ago
Spookie !!!! I have just watched this video and I am on the RHS of the 3 in the front line as the class (Exmouth 33) marches out of the gates at the beginning. We joined in March 1959. Don't remember this film being taken !!!!! We are hoping to have a 50th reunion in March.
JohnenFrance 3 years ago
Good job we were spared a close up shot of you! lol!
WELLBRAN 3 years ago
I was at Ganges 15 March 1949. as far as I know no one fell from the mast. One did die running around the sports field with a 4.5 shell on his shoulder.Punishment for not paying attention at gun drill. Bernard
seamingtwine 3 years ago
And what is the tune they play when they all come down off the mast?
whackiey 3 years ago
All I can remember is a drumbeat,we all went for it on the third beat...I was told that the climbing music was the 'Cordelia Fanfare',named from HMS Cordelia,hope it helps...but it was many years ago now.
clive3262 2 years ago
Iv'e never seen the 'Button Boy's' testicles but they must be huge!!!
mspratz 3 years ago
That is some smart climbing the mast. I must say. You will never get drill like that again.
pwdrin 3 years ago
Have to say I totally agree - smart and you will never see it again. Saw this first on Pathe News at the Roxy in the 50's
whackiey 3 years ago
Can anyone tell me what piece of music plays over the start of the mast manning?
beastatlay 3 years ago
Try En Aranjuez Con Tu Amor by Joaquín Rodrigo. It was also featured in the movie, "Brassed Off."
missjane54 3 years ago
Miles Davis does a version of it on "Sketches of Spain"!
randommental 3 years ago
Ta much to both of you.
beastatlay 3 years ago
I think it's called Concierto de Aranjuez.
I enjoyed seeing the button boy after many years of not seeing it on the television.
Also miss the gun and caisson being raced around an arena.
I shan't be voting Labour any more!
jaybee66 2 years ago
Thanks for that reference to Miles Davis- I knew I had heard this music before. "Sketches" is a classic!
jayne2357 2 years ago
Great days. Hard but educational.
I was in Anson 24 mess, bottom right of Long Covered Way, right next to Faith, Hope and Charity. Instructors were PO. Garner and CPO. Bentley. I did "button boy", only on recreation, just to prove to myself that I could. Bless all you sailors.
Elsucava 3 years ago 2
The long covered way was no where near Faith Hope & Charity. Bless ya
746Buster 2 years ago
I surved Ganges in 1949.A P.T.I. died there
from the mast(so we believed) after hoisting a
two wheeled truck to the top.
B.W. ex clubswinger.
hmssparrow 3 years ago
Amazing!!! I'm a young wren in todays navy, Raleigh isn't a patch on Ganges by the look of it. My Uncle Kevin Steele passed out of Ganges in the 70's anyone know him?
monkeymab 3 years ago
excellent video. Brings back old memories and i was there in 74 for the 6 weeks before going on to mercury. All said and done about Ganges i wish i was there now or could go back and do it again. fantastic. kevin grundy jro2
kevin31157 3 years ago
My grandfather joined GANGES as a boy seaman at 14 years of age in 1934 and went on to go through the war till he was discharged in 1950. He served aboard HMS DORSETSHIRE during the BISMARCK sinking, and was aboard when DORSETSHIRE was sunk in 1942. He sadly passed away in 2005.
Emimi225 4 years ago
RIP to an old Seaman.
WELLBRAN 4 years ago
Hello Emimi.
Could I ask what was your grandfathers name? My Father (Now 89) was also aboard Dorsetshire during WW2 both for the Bismarck and its own sinking in 1942. His best friend onboard was also a Ganges boy seaman who was a pre-war button boy.
Thanks for any info you can give.
Best wishes.
Pete
Rhettdwarf 3 years ago
Memories memories, Ex 56 Recruitment 1963-64/ 823 class /Benbow 27 mess ....bottom of the Long Covered way
Tanky1948 4 years ago
Exmouth 213 1963
writerken 3 years ago
yes i remember the cuts new a few lads who had them, i usually just got put on commanders 9a,s anyone remember them the cuts may have been better, would like to hear from anyone who remembers me!!!
alexmblack 4 years ago
great video i was in Duncan 11 mess 1965, gave me the shivers thinking about the gi's, i was also in the band what a great skive thanks again time for a sticky bun
alexmblack 4 years ago
Brilliant memories,l was in 31 recruitment1971/72 Anson Div.certainly sorted me out!shame its not around today or is that an old fashioned view!
baaaa0 4 years ago
Hi that was a cool vid. I have a friend whoes grandfather was on HMS Ganges in 1920.Does anyone know what was going on with the ship at that time? :-) Thanks lots! Donald.
donaldmarshall 4 years ago
Great video, brought back many memories.The Health and Safety brigade would have kittens eeing the mast manning.I think the yarn about the PTI falling through the mail office roof was probably a myth as I heard that same story when I was at Ganges July 54 to October 55. 19 Mess, Grenville Division. Des Young
desyoung 4 years ago
ThanKs Wellbran, great vid,brought tears to my eyes and pride to my heart.I was there 1960/1.Drake 40 mess,we did mast manning for the Queens visit,L/Jnr lee Smith was button boy. I lasted another 26 years after Ganges.Thanks again
violet2 4 years ago
Great vid I was their in 72 Rodney 44 mess 36 recruitment,great days.
Cheers Wellbran
zulu8457 4 years ago
Was in Anson 24 mess in 1959 where I trained as a sparker. Never set foot in the place again but did take a walk along the foreshore whilst waiting for the Harwich-Hook van Holland ferry sometime in the 1990's.
gitty0949 4 years ago
Great video WELLBRAN thanks for posting it. I was also in Benbow 27 mess 65/66. Never did stand up on the button, sat on it once and had to change the shorts afterwards. I did hear a story about a boot neck who climbed the mast drunk, fell and went through a roof, but I don't know if its true or not, perhaps the HMS Ganges museum situated in the old Enright block can answer this one.
jims49 4 years ago
Thank you for posting this WELLBRAN. I took part in the Remembrance Day Parade in London on 11.11 this year (2007) and our platoon mustered next to the HMS Ganges Boys so we were able to exchange ditties about the good old days when .........! Shep Woolley was taking charge of the Ganges Mob.Naturally they had to march behind us because we are the far more important HMS ST VINCENT boys! Watch our Video!
darbyrn 4 years ago
Bell bottom trousers coat of navy blue let him climb the rigging like his daddy used to do.... thanks for posting this video.
Yours, Aye.
DaveTAM 4 years ago
They made a movie about this way back when. I was wondering why were their boys in uniform at that age.
ConfederateTanker1 4 years ago
JUSR WINDING YOU ALL UP ... I can remember going on leave from this place and being called a sea cadet ???? If you managed to get through Ganges you were pretty good ......GREAT good one wellbran
royalnavy200 4 years ago
Did any of these boys actually join the NAVY ... Perhaps todays sea cadets would like an establishment to go to for weekends and long training holidays like these boys did
royalnavy200 4 years ago
they THOUGHT they were joining the Navy, but in fact it was Dantes Inferno.
WELLBRAN 4 years ago
oops didnt meen ship lol!
hammy2005 4 years ago
my dad was on that ship when he was 15. dunno what he did...should ask him about it? lol
hammy2005 4 years ago
My late father did a stint as 'button boy'back in the 1920's - God bless him! If we still had this kind of training then I believe we would still be the best in the world! God bless you lads - and thanks keeping us safe! God save the Queen!
Factnotfictionpeople 4 years ago
I was in the dental dept/sick berth staff from 65to 68.looked in on the place a few weeks ago.Now a thriving Marina.What`s happening to the re-development of the site?
grupygreybeard 4 years ago
I remember the SP trying to round me up in Ipswich for being in the out of bounds "Blue Coat Boy" whilst waiting for a bus, fortunately I was coming home on leave from Devonport so was left alone....Nice little HMS Ganges Museum on the new Shotley marina now. The Bristol arms serves a nice meal now.
ukdiamond001 4 years ago
Went though the lubbers holes too high for me!!!
dinger40 4 years ago
was 25 rec made cpo CD alway was hell place ganges
and shotley sue
terranbull 4 years ago
faith hope and charity
dinger40 4 years ago
being one of the poor trogs that went through this place twice. once as a recruit 1969 and once as a new entry instructor 1976 this has bought back many memories
bomber831 4 years ago
I was there in 1975 the year before it closed. Still lots of memories of the place.
divetheworld 4 years ago
Thanks for the vid WELLBRAN. My late father joined Ganges in 1936 and served in the RN until 1950. I can recall his dits about the infamous mast.
kennyc1964 4 years ago
did anyone ever fall off the mast?
DjAgentMC 5 years ago
There were fatalities there but not from the mast, as far as I know, However many boys fell from the Masts of the original HMS Ganges which was an actual ship anchored in Mylor Falmouth Cornwall UK. They are buried at Mylor Church yard. there is a monument there also.
WELLBRAN 5 years ago
My dad was there for a while - he sent me this I think he was there towards the end 1970's
DjAgentMC 5 years ago
yes the post office,nearest building, roof had new slates were somone bounced off the saftey nettingand landed 73ish
dinger40 4 years ago
I think the rumour was during 1960/1 that a drunk ships company (training staff)Physical Training Instuctor died falling from the mast during a night-time climb.
violet2 4 years ago
I was there in 63. What year is this? There is a vid of 63. Do you have it? Also, can these vids be downloaded to a computer?
writerken 5 years ago
Hi Royalnavy200, can't remember the"Cuts" do remember the Long/short covered ways... the annex.. Friday night routine.. Mr Fisk.. etc etc. Captain Place was I think the nicest officer I ever met. Many good memories, a few bad ones, It certainly changed my life.
Regards, Mick
PS; might be an idea to change your details just in case Wellbran exposes you as well lol.
s10s6 5 years ago
That wouldn't be Mick Gray by any chance ?
John Godfrey 1963 Entry Hawke division
ganpafixit 3 years ago
What a great video .... I was there 1965 till 1966 I will always remember Captain Place sporting his VC ... Can anyone remember the CUTS >>>>
royalnavy200 5 years ago
Yes I was there in 1964 although I did not have the privalege of receiving "cuts" my mate did and became renown for being a regular recipient! We have just formed a reunion of some of our Hawke Division after 40+ years!
ganpafixit 4 years ago
OK I'm guilty of wishful thinking and having a long memory huh. Still got most of my own hair, may be the tar helped.
s10s6 5 years ago
OK So that would put you at about 57yrs old? if you were there at 16 in 1966? eg : I was born in 55 so thats makes me 51 ganges closed in 76.
WELLBRAN 5 years ago
Superb, glad I went there, even more pleased I survived. Benbow 27 65/66
s10s6 5 years ago
s10s6, I see that you state that you were there in 1965/66? is that correct?? As I see in your profile you are aged 40...
WELLBRAN 5 years ago
That I'm afraid was just wishful thinking and a good memory.Cheers Mick
s10s6 5 years ago
So am I. Benbow 27 also. Oct 1969. Bottom of Long Covered Way left hand side.
victorious27 5 years ago