The Royal Artillery Assembly was held on 13-15 May 2023 at Blackpool, a weekend of comradeship and entertainment for the Gunner family.  The Royal Regiment of Artillery hosted over 340 gunners and their families, with guests joining the Gala Dinner on Saturday evening.  

On Friday evening the National Executive Committee joined the Master Gunner St James's Park for dinner, it is an opportunity to say thank you to the Committee Members and welcome new regional representatives.   The Committee met first thing on Saturday morning before the Assembly. 

The Standard Bearers Competition took place in the Norcalympia with 7 competitors from across the UK and Germany.  We were delighted to see so many entrants and proud to announce the winner of the Competition and the newly appointed National Standard Bearer; Mr Mark Ballard from Newbury Branch.  Thank you to the RASM, RABSM and the RAA Association Secretary who judged the Competition and to Drill Sergeant, SSgt Grant.

The Assembly began with an address from the Master Gunner St James's Park, Lt Gen Sir Andrew Gregory KBE CB DL followed by presentations from the Regimental Colonel, 7 AD Gp and the Regimental Secretary, Col Matthew Carter.   During the afternoon the RAA Annual Awards were presented to individuals for outstanding support to the Regimental Charities, a full list of receiptants will be published in the July edition of Gunner. 

Brig Mark Pountain OBE chaired the RAA AGM alongside the Regimental Secretary.

The Sunset Ceremony is always a splendid start to Saturday evening, attended by the Mayor of Blackpool.  The Lancashire Artillery Volunteer Band entertained us all, supported by the Pipes and Drums. It is with sincere thanks to 103 Regt RA who did not only support with their Band but also for providing displays, manpower and equipment throughout the weekend.  The Gala Dinner took place in the evening and we were again entertained by all the Band with some outstanding solo performances.   

On Sunday the Venerable Stephen Robbins CB led the church service in the morning and the last event of the weekend was an evening of entertainment in the Boston Suite. 

This year's Royal Artillery Assembly was a resounding success, a big thank you to everyone who made it possible, and to those who supported and attended the event. 

 Thank you to Mollie Ballard who took fantastic photographs over the weekend, here is a link to her website  https://mollieballard.wixsite.com/mbphotos