Ahoy, Spalding! Have you ever wondered how our local naval veterans celebrate Britain’s greatest sea victory? If you’ve been keeping up with October’s TAKU Talk, you’ll know all about Admiral Lord Nelson and his legendary win at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. But while you might know about the big battleships, there’s a much smaller vessel – and a brilliant local tradition – you might not have heard of.
What on Earth is Pickle Night?
When you think of Trafalgar, you probably picture massive warships trading cannon fire. Nelson actually had 27 “ships of the line” under his command, backed up by smaller support vessels. One tiny, crucial support ship was HMS Pickle, an 8-gun schooner.
While Pickle wasn’t firing heavy broadsides in the thick of the line, she had a vital job. After the battle, her captain was tasked with racing back to Britain to deliver the bittersweet news: Nelson had secured a monumental victory, but the great Admiral had lost his life.
Traditionally, commissioned officers hold formal dinners on Trafalgar Day (21st October). But back in the mid-1970s, a new tradition was born for Warrant Officers and Senior Ratings to have their own knees-up: Pickle Night. Officially celebrated on or around 6th November – marking the day HMS Pickle finally docked in London with the news – it’s a much livelier, less formal affair.
How Spalding RNA Celebrates
The members of the Spalding Royal Naval Association (RNA) aren’t ones to miss a proper naval party. On 23rd October 2026, the Spalding RNA will be hosting their very own Pickle Night to honour Nelson, his crew, and that little ship that carried big news.
Expect plenty of cheer, camaraderie, and a touch of history -the Spalding crew will even be dressing up in period uniforms traditionally worn by everyday ratings back in 1805!
A Bit of Senior Service Trivia for Your Next Pub Quiz…
The Royal Navy is steeped in history, officially established by King Henry VIII all the way back in 1546. Because it’s the oldest branch of the British Armed Forces, it’s fondly known as the Senior Service.
But did you know its other famous nickname? It’s often called “The Andrew.” Historians trace this peculiar moniker back to an aggressive 18th-century press-gang recruitment officer named Andrew Miller, who pressed so many men into service that sailors joked the Navy was his personal property!
Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good story, keep an eye out for our local Spalding RNA veterans this month as they don their 1800s kit and spin a few yarns.
Rodney Grocock
Vice Chairman
Spalding Royal Naval Association
Email: rodney@rodneygrocock.co.uk