SEEINGTHESEA
The work of the Royal Navy all over the world is captured in style by their own photographers
THE cream of the Royal Navy’s photographers have been recognised for a series of stunning shots capturing life at sea and onshore.
The images range from dramatic shots of low-flying helicopters to touching pictures of homecoming personnel with their children.
Others highlight commando units on manoeuvres – while one heartwarming image shows a veteran being helped during Armistice Day by two younger Naval colleagues.
Navy personnel wanting to join the elite photographic branch first have to learn a particular trade – such as logistics, engineering or warfare.
The select few then work with the Navy and Royal Marines capturing all aspects of naval life.
Their work can be on deployments anywhere in the world, ranging from the UK to the Far East, Antarctica and the Arabian Sea.
The best images are recognised each year at the prestigious Peregrine Trophy awards, presented in London yesterday by the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Philip Jones.
The awards drew more than 400 entries this year.
Petty Officer Simon Ethell was named this year’s Royal Navy Photographer of the Year with a portfolio of images from operations around the world.
He said: “I’m delighted to have won Royal Navy photographer of the year and over the moon my video has been recognised, as I’m passionate about video.”
The Peregrine Trophy dates back to 1961 and is named after the HMS Peregrine Royal Naval Air Station in Sussex.
The award-winning images are used to highlight Royal Navy and Marines operations in the media.
Captain Ian Stidston, head of the photographic branch, said: “The Royal Navy protect our nation around the world at sea, on land and in the air, and our photographers capture every element of that work.
“I am immensely proud of all they achieved, telling the story of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines through dedication to the art of photography.”