Worcester Training Ship, The King’s Medal, G.V.R., by Bertram Mackennal; reverse: Thames Nautical Training College H.M.S. “Worcester” (Cyril James Senior, 1928), 44mm., 18ct. gold, 56.76g., in fitted red leather case of issue, Ref: B.H.M. 4370 sim., extremely fine £400-500

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, Prize, Training Ship, Nursing & Other Medals from the James N. Spencer Collection.

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The Thames Marine Officers Training Ship Association was formed in 1862 by London ship-owners in order to provide training for officer cadets. The frigate Worcester was loaned from the Admiralty and used as a training ship, moored firstly on the lower Thames at Erith, Kent, then in 1869 at Southend, Essex, moving upstream to Greenhithe, Kent in 1871. Found to be too small for the numbers being trained, in 1876 the ship was replaced by the larger ship-of-the-line Frederick William which was renamed Worcester. After the Second World War the ship was found to be no longer fit for use as a training ship and the College took over the Exmouth which previously had been a training ship run by the London County Council. Renamed the Worcester, she was moored at Greenhithe, Kent and remained in use until 1968 when the college closed.

The King's Medal was awarded to the Cadet who, during his period of training, exhibited the most gentleman like bearing and good influence among the Cadets.