ONE of the most prominent landmarks in Plymouth Naval Base has been given a high-level make-over.

The main flag mast stands 32 metres on the ceremonial Quarterdeck of HMS Drake in Devonport Naval Base and it’s prominent position means it is the first thing visitors to see entering Drake Main Gate.

Its height has presented a dizzying challenge to the strategic partners Interserve Defence when they inspected, overhauled and replaced the wooden mast’s yardarms.

The annual inspection showed significant degeneration of the wooden yards which were therefore, removed from the mast and lowered to ground level for a closer look. Due to the length (upper yard length 8.43 M long and lower yards 12M long) and weight of the yards -.25 tonnes, high-level cranes were required to remove them.

On examination it was evident; the deterioration on both upper and lower yards was more prolific than first thought, so they were replaced.

Interserve Defence commissioned Survitec Services Ltd, to remove and replace all the mast rigging and fixings and arrange the remake of new upper and lower yards. The fabrication of the yards was sub-contracted to Mashfords Boatbuilders, at Cremyll in Cornwall.

To achieve the maximum strength the yards were made using six lengths of Douglas fir timber glued together, shaped, treated and coated in four coats of marine grade paint. Following one postponement due to high winds, the yards were finally fitted. The project was managed by Danny Midgley, of Interserve Defence, who said: “It was a great relief when the weather conditions bettered and we could finish the repair, The Royal Navy will now be able to fly pennants and raise ceremonial flags for years to come.”