RNPS

Ex-CPOMEA Paddy Grayell (Served 1971-2004)

Paddy Joined the Navy in September 1971 and was posted to HMS Caledonia where he attempted to join the Volunteer Band. Due to his inability to play any instrument or read music he was directed to the pipe band! He learnt for 3 years and was then off to sea for 17 years. He met Bill Gass in 1994 at Portsmouth Dockyard and his interest was revitalised and he became a member of the RNPS.

Living in the Portsmouth area Paddy joined Hampshire Fire and Rescue Pipe Band and also The Rose & Thistle Pipe Band. He then took on all the RNPS organising work for the Portsmouth area and went on his first trip to Cologne with Campbell de Burgh in 1998 and has gone every year since.

Demobbed after serving 32 years Paddy now works for the the Housing Association and has taken on the tasks of RNPS QM and Events Manager. His claim to fame: The current RM Director of Music was his Volunteer Band C/Sgt on HMS Illustrious 1995-1998!

Contact Paddy for items of RNPS insignia (hackle, bonnet badge, shoulder tabs, kilt pins, belt metalwork and plaid brooches). He may still have a selection of balmorals and RNPS capes.