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Exhibition

Painted Hall Display | Women at War: Wrens at Greenwich and Beyond

Opens Sat 12 Oct | 10am–5pm
Tickets: £16.50 (Included in your Painted Hall ticket)
Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College, King William Walk, Greenwich, London, SE10 9NN

The Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS), popularly known as the ‘Wrens’, made a vital contribution to the national war effort during the Second World War (1939-1945). The WRNS Officer Training Course (OTC) was established at the Royal Naval College, Greenwich, in 1939. 

This display in the Painted Hall vestibule marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the War. It presents documents and artefacts belonging to Jane Shorey and Nina Wilkin, two of the thousands of Wrens who completed their training at the Royal Naval College during the war years. 

This display is included in your Painted Hall ticket.

Who was Nina Wilkin?

From witnessing a devastating torpedo explosion to helping prepare for the D-Day invasion, Nina's journey took her from England to Sri Lanka in support of the war effort.

Her service was filled with challenges, bravery, and adventure—including fending off unwanted attention on a troop ship, meeting her future husband and caring for liberated prisoners of war.

Read more...