Historic Royal Navy landing craft becomes first British war vessel in history to be wrapped in Pride colours

An historic Royal Navy landing craft – owned by Portsmouth Historic Quarter and no longer used operationally by the military – has become the first British war vessel in history to be wrapped in Pride colours.

Decorated to mark the 25th anniversary of the lifting of the ban on LGBTQ+ people serving in the British armed forces, Landing Craft Foxtrot 8 (F8), which is based at Portsmouth Historic Quarter, was used during the Falklands War.

The project is organised with LGBTQ+ veterans charity Fighting with Pride ahead of UK Pride in Portsmouth on 7 June.

Veteran Roly Woods, a former sub-lieutenant in the Royal Navy who served on HMS Leeds Castle during the Falklands War, had chosen to lie when challenged by his commanding officer about his relationship with another man.

He said: “Given the historic sacrifices made by the LGBTQ+ armed forces community in service of their country, it’s important we mark this anniversary in a special way.

“The unveiling of Landing Craft F8 in her Pride colours is a celebration of real progress for the LGBTQ+ community in the armed forces, and it is an extremely proud moment for both LGBTQ+ veterans and for those serving today.”

Hannah Prowse, chief executive officer of Portsmouth Historic Quarter, added: “To those under the age of 40, it seems astonishing that men and women who served with courage and were willing to risk their lives for their country, were punished for their sexual orientation. They deserve our gratitude and respect.

“In wrapping Landing Craft F8 in this manner, we’re celebrating the inclusivity now present in our armed forces, celebrating the men and women who serve and have served our country with honour, and celebrating the bravery of those who fought to overturn the ban.”