Some will remember the amazing spectacle of the Inter Command Field Gun competition at the Royal Tournament in Earls Court which had its final run in 1999. But Field Gun continues, with the Royal Navy Royal Marine Corps (RNRMC) Field Gun Competition held annually at HMS COLLINGWOOD with Teams of volunteers from across the 3 services. Over the last 10 years we have also developed a Junior version; Junior Leaders Field Gun Competition (JLFG) which incorporates elements of the naval ethos into our people and is designed to build the camaraderie and Fighting Spirit of our future Leaders within the Naval Service (NS). The competition is for 16 – 24 year olds with no previous Field Gun experience.
This year saw 15 teams compete from across the military, cadets, education and training spheres.
For the Sea Cadets and volunteers of the Southern Area it was an extraordinary week, many of whom were meeting and working together for the very first time. Throughout the week, cadets were introduced to the iconic 12-pound field gun, learning the roles and responsibilities involved in operating this impressive piece of equipment. By Thursday, they were competing side-by-side in a fast-paced, teamwork-intensive competition and they rose to the challenge with the determination and spirit we’ve come to expect from Sea Cadets.
This year marked another milestone, with six additional Southern Area Sea Cadets integrated into the Royal Navy Cadet Forces crew joining peers from the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and the Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC); a first for many of these young people, and a testament to the unifying power of Field Gun.
Training Highlights
Day one focused on introductions to the gun and limber, with cadets exploring where their individual strengths would best support the crew. Day two was all about precision and coordination during “bit drill”, learning to work in sync to move the gun and limber efficiently. As the days progressed, it was inspiring to see teamwork and camaraderie flourish, with each crew member pushing themselves further to improve speed, execution, and cohesion.
By Thursday afternoon, the competitive phase began, and the excitement among the crews was palpable. Cadets described feeling everything from nerves to pride — all of them agreeing it had been a week to remember. The final heats took place on Friday morning, building up to the Plate 1 Final and the Grand Final just after noon. Families, friends, and supporters lined the track, joined by a fantastic turnout of VIP guests to cheer on the crews.
Distinguished Guests and Supporters
We were honoured to welcome a host of special guests, including Rear Admiral Jude Terry (Royal Navy Director of People and Training), Brigadier Lamb (Head of Youth and Cadets), Brigadier Williams (Chief Executive of the Cadet Association), Colonel Fulford (Army Cadet Colonel), and Chris Ball, the current Master Wheelwright, accompanied by several past Masters including Neil Sampson.
It was also a privilege to host Louise Lambert, wife of the late Field Gun legend WO1 Charlie Lambert, along with her family.
Our honoured guests from our own National Support Centre in London were Captain Neil Dowling RN, Captain Sea Cadets, our new CEO Guy Holloway and Director of Sea Cadet Learning Heather Williams. Our Southern Area Officer Cdr David Grindel, couldn’t keep away, not only visiting on Friday for the main competition but also popping in during the weeks training, so much so we almost had you in as part of the crew, Sir. Maybe next year?
Our sincere thanks also go to our valued sponsors and supporters: The RN & RM Charity and BAE Systems.
The atmosphere was electric — a perfect blend of sunshine, breeze, and community spirit — making for an unforgettable finale to an intense and rewarding week.
Competition Results
- Grand Final Winner: HMS Sultan
- Plate 1 Winners: Defence School of Logistics and Administration (DSLA)
- Best Cadet Crew (Marson Trophy): Sea Cadets
- Fastest Time Trophy: HMS Sultan
- Wheelwrights Trophy: HMS Sultan
- No 1 Trainer: UTC Greater Peterborough
- Endeavour Trophy (In honour of WO1 Charlie Lambert) : Sea Cadets
To everyone who supported, trained, and inspired these young people — thank you. The Junior Leaders Field Gun 2025 has once again proven that teamwork, resilience, and leadership are alive and thriving in the next generation.
