In spite of the cold, wet, weather, around sixty people, both military and civilian, met at the HMS Neptune Sportsdrome to run in the Santa Dash.

Everyone ran together in a group with no winners or losers. However, as staff were encouraged to dress-up in a festive theme there was a prize for the best dressed.

The prize was awarded to Able Rate Edward Eggleton, who won a MYZONE fitness tracker for running dressed as a giant Christmas cracker. Among the runners there were also a few Santas, the Grinch, some elves, a snowman and even an inflatable Christmas tree.

The Naval Base’s First Lieutenant, Lieutenant Commander ‘Speedy’ Steedman said: “These events don’t just happen. They need passion and drive to set up and a spot of commitment by people to attend in the rain! Massive thank you to the Physical Training department for running it and next stop is Christmas lunch.”

After the race, it was time for some festive food, with Junior Sailors heading up to the Supermess where they were served a three-course Christmas lunch by some of the Senior officers in the Naval Base.

Officers, including Commodore Submarine Service, Commodore Paul Dunn, looking festive in their Christmas jumpers and hats, were kept busy serving around 350 junior personnel and making sure they had everything they needed to enjoy their Christmas meal.

The turkey dinner with all the trimmings is the continuation of an age-old Royal Navy tradition where Officers show their appreciation to those on duty over the Christmas period.

On some vessels the tradition was taken even further with the most junior Sailor changing places with the Commanding Officer for the day, even issuing orders to his crewmembers.