Yes I well remember being ' fresh meat' – and yes a rather unsettling experience.

Whats funny though as the years passed is watching the following classes join and go through the same! – You medics never changed, and some became renowned for their actions on 'the new class'.

Class 57 was elite, we were the last fully naval trained class, before the school of nursing joined with the Portsmouth hospital, to provide the RN's nurse training of the future.

Six months after the start of our training it all came to a halt! – War had been declaired in the Falklands and nurses six months in to their training were then found to be nursing….full on…….no experience, but we learnt a hell of a lot.

What an honour to nurse those who returned, wounded physically and mentally we helped them through……..although I'm sure they still live with many a scar.

I remember sitting on the sea wall late one night with Kevin Crook, watching most of his mates sail out. He was gutted not to be with you, but not being fit following smashing up his leg, it was not to be.

Too much in my mind and so many memories.

I wish all of you a Happy and Restful Christmas.

Anyone who knows me, get it touch…….Love u all

Sarah