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On Friday, 31st January, The Golden Hinde became the canvas for an inspiring celebration of young artistic talent as the winners of the ship’s Flag Design Competition saw their designs brought to life. The morning event on the Main Deck welcomed an enthusiastic crowd including the competition winners and their families, members of the judging panel, Bermondsey and Old Southwark MP Neil Coyle, local neighbours and guests, as well as members of the ship’s crew. The entire event was captured by an ITV News London crew.

The event opened with an address from Angus, Director of The Golden Hinde, who praised the exceptional creativity showcased in the outstanding submissions received last term. He emphasised the importance of nurturing imagination and storytelling to preserve the ship’s historic legacy. 

With anticipation mounting, the flag-raising ceremony began. Firstly, local artist and competition judge Rosie Brooks’ flag took to the skies, featuring bold red and yellow borders (reflecting the bright colors seen on the ship today), a beautiful rendering of the ship itself framed by water and two important symbols: a pelican, representing the ship’s original name when it set sail on Sir Francis Drake’s circumnavigation, and a lion’s head, inspired by the carved lion on the rudder, a feature meant to ward off sea monsters. Lois’ KS2-winning design followed, featuring a striking combination of Tudor symbolism: a “fancy hat” representing Sir Francis Drake, a pelican symbolising the ship’s original name, a globe for the circumnavigation, and a hind to reflect the ship’s enduring namesake. Finally, Martha’s KS3-winning design soared aloft, showcasing a narrative-driven depiction of adventure—an anchor rope winding across the flag, a compass rose, seagulls, and a sea monster symbolising both exploration and peril.

The vibrant display of flags against the otherwise grey January sky drew applause from the crowd, marking a proud moment for the young artists and their supporters. Shortly afterward, Martha and Lois were interviewed by ITV News, where they shared their creative journeys and excitement at seeing their designs take centre stage.

Meanwhile, guests descended below deck to continue the festivities. In celebration of National Hot Chocolate Day, complimentary hot chocolate—with an array of toppings— was served to warm up attendees as they explored a specially curated exhibition featuring distinguished competition entries. The showcase highlighted the remarkable creativity and diversity of vision displayed by all participants, including the competition's runners-up: Adela (Year 6, Age 10) and Chada (Year 6, Age 10) in the KS2 category, as well as Janka (Year 7, Age 12) and Ariam (Year 7, Age 11) in the KS3 category.

The flag-raising event underscored The Golden Hinde’s role as a hub for community engagement, history, and the arts. By blending tradition with innovation, it celebrated not only the ship’s maritime legacy but also the bright future of young creatives whose stories will continue to inspire generations to come.

See ITV News coverage of the event on our Facebook!

https://fb.watch/xKVeOoi5h1/