John Symons spent a long time persuading the management of Crownhill Fort Plymouth that a Gun Detachment would enhance the visitor attraction of the Fort.

During 1997 various cannon were installed, the barracks were furnished in true Victorian style and a recruitment campaign for the Gun Detachment took place, eight applications were received, the uniforms were ordered and training for the Gun Detachment began.

About 2001 a service record was discovered of someone who had enlisted at the Fort, this was stamped with No1 Depot Company, the Gun Detachment now had a title.

Sgt John Symons

No1 Depot Company represents the men of the Garrison Artillery that would have manned fortifications throughout Great Britain and the British Empire during the Victorian period.

Fortifications such as Pendennis Castle in Cornwall, Dartmouth Castle Devon and further east Fort Nelson Portsmouth.

Plymouth

We also represent N Battery 5th Brigade that were at Isandlwana during the Zulu wars.

N Battery camped at Whitmore Hall, 1st July 2008.
Photo courtesy of Mike Tallent