H.M.S. RENOWN

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLVII, Issue 28, 31 December 1926, Page 9

H.M.S. RENOWN

ROYAL TOUR PREPARATIONS. FORCE OF ROYAL MARINES. ARMY OF WORKMEN BUSY. LONDON, Dec. 29. The detachment oil—Royal Marines on the Renown consists of 150 rank and file and three officers. This is a larger number than usual on the warship, but it "is necessary because the Royal Guard consists pf 100 and the band is 40 strong. This is drawn from the Royal Navy School of Music, and is conducted by Lieutenant Pragnall, who has been specially promoted to the posts. There is also a band of ten drums and bugles, while a jazz band, formed out of a military band, will play dance music during the voyage for the Duke and Duchess of York, the officers of the Renown, and the ship’s company, and while in Australia will play dance music ashore. The jazz band is a specially fine combination, under Corporal Green, and is regarded as equal to the bands of the leading London dancing halls. To-morrow the Renown’s drab paint will disappear beneath a resplendent coat of pearl grey. An army of workmen is busy fitting out the Royal apartments, to wljich the final touches will only bo given-the day before embarkation. A fascinating display of old naval prints, also the Commonwealth’s plate and wartime Ensign, are being arrayed in the 6tate rooms. —A. and N.Z. cable.