Title:RECOMMISSIONING OF HMS INVINCIBLE, 18 MAY 1989 (RUSHES)] [Allocated Title]
Film Number:ADM 6841X
Other titles:
Summary: Scenes from the recommissioning ceremony of the aircraft carrier "HMS Invincible" by HM Queen Elizabeth II at the Cammell-Laird shipyard, Birkenhead.
Description: (Tape 1) Opening shots show large cake made for the occasion: it has confectionery models of the current "HMS Invincible" and the original eighteenth century "Invincible". Opening part of main ceremony, held in the ship's hangar (taken from camera position inside the hangar, to the side and slightly to the rear of the podium): band plays as Guard of Honour marches across the hangar. HM Queen Elizabeth II arrives and stands on podium Inspection of guard. Captain gives a speech: close ups of Queen Elizabeth and admiral seated among the congregation. Prayers are said, and the hymn "To Be a Pilgrim" is sung.
(Tape 2) Part of main ceremony, held in the ship's hangar. Shots from within hangar of part of the ceremony: congregation sings "Eternal Father, Strong to Save". High angle shots of congregation after the ceremony, taken from flight deck looking down into hangar. Queen Elizabeth II tours the flight deck with "Invincible's" captain; Sea Harrier aircraft is inspected, and crew interviewed. Inspection of ship's armaments, including Sea Dart missile launcher and Goalkeeper. The Queen also meets Sea King helicopter crews. Reception, held in hangar: buglers play fanfare.
(Tape 3) Visitors on flight deck. The Queen meets guests below deck. Further shots of deck and of shipyard: police launch is seen alongside, and a Sealink ferry passes. Wide shot of deck as guests make their way towards a marquee erected near the carrier's island. Flypast by Fleet Air Arm Sea Harriers and Sea Kings.
(Tape 4) Shots of ceremony taken from right hand side of podium. Queen is given a posy. Further shots of Queen meeting Sea King helicopter crews. Below deck, Queen Elizabeth signs visitors books and accepts a gift from the captain (a large painting of "HMS Invincible") before meeting families of officers. Queen inspects a model of the original "Invincible", made from wood salvaged from her wreck in the Solent. Dockside: guests line the edge of the deck as the Queen leaves the ship and is driven away in a Rolls Royce car.