I want to be a Gunner!
This is our regimental gun - her name is Sweaty Betty, and as you can see she's got a great big bang!
We are always seeking members to help work the gun, which is a huge asset for the regiment, and its events.
Sweaty Betty is our cannon. Its not a very glamourous name, but we feel that she is one of the best looking pieces on the field today. The following photographs show 'Betty' being worked by a full crew of seven gunners. She can be worked by just three if necessary, but that is very hard work! The photographs start with 'Betty' just having been fired, so we will work through basic procedures for cleaning, loading and of course firing! Please remember that all of these gunners have trained to use this very dangerous weapon, and are constantly checking safety procedures for each other, and work under the direct control of an extremely experienced Gun Captain.
As you can imagine, you have to be extremely well organised to work a gun safely. Click on images below and we will show you the whole loading process, the tools involved and the safety procedures that are involved.
As the gun attends most of the events that the Regiment presents, this is a really great way to get involved with a progressive part of the regiment. We need at least three people to work the gun, but she works so much better with five - so there is plenty of space for members to have a go. To become qualified as a gun captain is a process that takes a couple of years of fairly committed attendance and training, culminating with a competency test by the Sealed Knot; but you might not choose to go that far, and will be happy as a crew member - and that's fine too.
We insist that if you want to work the gun that you have a chat through with the existing crew members who will describe the process of how you operate the gun, what each role is for, and the safety issues relating to working on the artillery.
Please be aware that these guns are incredibly loud, and you are advised to take measures to protect your hearing by the use of moulded ear-plugs.
We insist that if you want to work the gun that you have a chat through with the existing crew members who will describe the process of how you operate the gun, what each role is for, and the safety issues relating to working on the artillery.
Please be aware that these guns are incredibly loud, and you are advised to take measures to protect your hearing by the use of moulded ear-plugs.
