As we reach this very special time of year, my latest Taku Talk monthly report reflects on a season that means so much to so many of us. It is a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and look forward to Christmas, a period of reflection, gratitude and goodwill.
The Spalding Royal Naval Association has enjoyed a full and positive year, with shipmates coming and going, friendships renewed, and our traditions upheld. At this time of year, it is right that I pause and offer my sincere thanks to all those who continue to support the RNA and to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.
Very recently, we welcomed a new vicar to St Mary & St Nicolas, Spalding Church in Spalding, Father Rob Parker-McGee brings fresh thinking, warmth and real enthusiasm to our local church community. He has already officiated at all of our military parades and services with great dignity and understanding. On behalf of the Spalding RNA, I would like to wish Father Rob and his family a very happy Christmas.
There are many others who deserve our thanks. The staff at the Spalding Consti Club, where the RNA holds its monthly meetings, always make us feel welcome and we are most grateful to them. Thanks also go to the staff at Ayscoughfee Hall, where the RNA has established a naval corner highlighting the important role played by the submarine HMS Taku in the history of Spalding. It is well worth a visit.
At this time of year, we also spare a special thought for serving naval personnel across the world who will not be able to spend Christmas with their loved ones. Whether they are deployed in war-torn regions keeping the peace, or on patrol aboard a warship or submarine protecting the United Kingdom, they remain very much in our thoughts.
My thanks also go to all members of the Spalding Royal Naval Association and their families, and last but by no means least, to the good people of South Holland who continue to attend military parades and services, honouring the fallen and paying their respects with quiet dignity.
From me, Rodney Grocock, Communications and Recruitment Officer of the Spalding Royal Naval Association, I wish everyone a very happy and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Our next meeting will take place on 8 January 2026, when I shall begin interviewing RNA shipmates about the ships they served on and the stories they have to tell. Sailors, as we all know, always have good stories. In future Taku Talk columns, I look forward to sharing some of these with you.
I will finish by saying, God bless you one and all.
Rodney Grocock
Communications & Recruitment Officer