Christmas cheer spread by Royal Navy sailors working over the festive period - pictures

While many armed forces personnel are enjoying a well deserved rest with their families, others are picking up the mantle and are deployed on operations globally.

Portsmouth-based patrol vessel HMS Spey is continuing her duties in the Indo-Pacific. A social media statement on December 22 said: “Merry Christmas from Singapore! Today we’ve had Christmas dinner served by the Wardroom, secret Santa gifts shared across the mess decks.”

Various festive traditions were upheld on many of the vessels, including officers making Christmas lunch for the other sailors. The crew aboard her sister ship, HMS Tamar, created their own rendition of 12 days of Christmas. They said: “We hope you enjoy our performance! We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year from the Indo-Pacific!”

Personnel aboard HMS Medway were handed festive goodies from the Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity, with the patrol vessel being on hand to respond to any situation around the UK. A statement on the ship’s social media account said: “Feeling very grateful this Christmas.

“The crew of HMS Medway have been treated to some welcome festive goodies courtesy of RNRMC while continuing to protect the nation 24/7. Proud to serve and thankful for the support.”