The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) and The Submarine Family (TSF) recently awarded grant funding to His Majesty’s Naval Base (HMNB) Clyde to purchase a VW Campervan, affectionately named ‘Jolly’.
The campervan will offer an affordable and convenient recreation option appealing to more junior personnel and those in single living accommodation.
With the high-tempo nature of delivering the number one defence priority of the Continuous at Sea Deterrent, RNRMC and TSF (a fund within the RNRMC), were keen to support the naval base to improve the work life balance of its serving personnel. The campervan will also be available to book on a case-by-case basis for those serving at other Royal Navy establishments.
The campervan joins HMNB Clyde’s current offer of motorhomes and static caravans and allows for a more flexible, easy and fun option for those looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Scottish Highlands and Islands in their off-watch time.
The first couple to rent the Jolly campervan were Ross and Fiona Balfour, who between them have 55 years of combined naval service. Ross continues to serve, whilst Fiona completed 22 years and is now a civil servant at HMNB Clyde.
The Balfours took the opportunity to rent the van at short notice and spent a long weekend exploring, cycling and dog walking. Fiona said:
‘We feel very lucky to have had the chance to use this great addition to the Central Amenities Fund (CAF) assets. Jolly, along with all the CAF assets, provides an exceptional opportunity for base personnel to take advantage of these amenities for a very reasonable price, thanks to the generous support of RNRMC and TSF.’
Income from bookings taken will be used to keep the campervan on the road so that it is self-sufficient and self-sustaining.
