Black Tot Day – 31 July 1970

For more than 300 years, Royal Navy sailors were issued a daily rum ration, known as the tot. By the 20th century it was usually served at midday and had become one of the Navy’s best-known traditions.

That tradition ended on 31 July 1970, a date that became known throughout the Royal Navy as Black Tot Day. The Admiralty decided that a daily rum issue was no longer appropriate in a modern Navy, particularly as ships and equipment became increasingly complex and technical.

The final tot was therefore served that day, bringing an end to a tradition dating back centuries. In many ships the occasion was marked almost like a funeral, with black armbands, mock ceremonies and plenty of dark humour.

For ex-matelots, Black Tot Day remains one of those dates that instantly connects generations of Royal Navy service — and a reminder of a tradition that disappeared as the Navy moved into the modern era.

This flag features the Black Tot Day design.

• 150cm × 100cm flag
• Weather-resistant, washable fabric

Created for Royal Navy veterans, their families and anyone with a connection to the Royal Navy.