The current owners of the classic yacht Saunterer, which belonged to doomed Antarctic expedition team member Captain Lawrence Oates, welcomed the Royal Navy aboard at a special ceremony in Dartmouth on Friday.

Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope, the First Sea Lord, was in town to launch the British Services Antarctica Expedition. The project celebrates the 100th anniversary of the historic attempt on the South Pole by Captain Scott and his colleagues and hopes to raise £10,000 for the Help for Heroes charity.

Chloe and Guy Savage bought the 60ft Saunterer in 2009 and have lived aboard during her extensive restoration. The yacht has been adopted at the expedition’s mascot due to her connection with Captain Oates. She will be used to help develop team member’s sailing skills and host associated events.

Admiral Stanhope said, ‘They have done a massive amount of work to restore Saunterer to its original condition and the result is magnificent.’

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For more information on the expedition: www.bsae2012.co.uk