Admiral of the Fleet Lord Boyce Dies Aged 90
The UK has lost a naval legend. Admiral of the Fleet The Lord Boyce KG GCB OBE DL passed away on 6 November 2022. A towering figure in British naval history, Lord Boyce had been a familiar and respected presence in the Cinque Ports district since 2004.
Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports and Dover Castle
Lord Boyce was appointed Lord Warden and Admiral of the Cinque Ports, as well as Constable of Dover Castle. He made Walmer Castle his official home. The Cinque Ports—Dover and Sandwich as Head Ports, with Deal as a Corporate Limb—are steeped in maritime tradition, famously known as the “cradle of the Royal Navy.”
Local Hero and Naval Giant
Councillor Conolly paid tribute: “Many of us got to know Lord Boyce through his unstinting dedication and service to the Cinque Ports, and his support of the local community, charities and voluntary organisations.”
As the first naval officer to hold the Lord Warden role since the 1600s, Lord Boyce brought serious clout. A former submariner, First Sea Lord, and Chief of the Defence Staff, his professional expertise elevated the position to new heights.
Cllr Conolly added: “He was also a true gentleman who took a great interest in local matters. He will be sadly missed across the district and the wider Cinque Ports community.”
