Women take the helm

FEMALE sailors took the helm of a Portsmouth warship as she was guided into London.

By The Newsroom

Published 19th May 2016, 06:04 BST

From left, Leading Regulator Nichola Connolly, Engineering Technician Emily Bunting, Engineering Technician Olivia Morris, Steward Hannah Watson, Petty Officer Sarah Jenkins and Leading Physical Trainer Instructor Charlotte Mason

HMS Kent visited the capital this week on her way to take part in the Battle of Jutland centenary commemorations this month.

Women manned the bridge to steer the Type 23 frigate down the Thames and into Canary Wharf.

Of a core ship’s company of 165 there are 22 women on board, working across the decks in varied jobs from engineering technician to physical trainer and police officer.

Among those guiding the ship into dock were Leading Regulator Nicola Connolly, 26, Leading Physical Trainer Charlotte Mason, 22, and Steward Hannah Watson, 23.

Portsmouth London