Once Upon a Time… IX(B) Sqn in West Lynn … · Once Upon a Time… There Were Some Very Kind-Hearted Children in West Lynn The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Issue

Marham Air Cadets Forge Ahead in 2012

Do Your Bit for RAFA!RAFA Fundraising Opportunities 2013

IX(B) Sqn Homecoming

ParadePersonnel from marched through the

streets of Downham Market for their homecoming parade

RAF Marham Aviation Heritage Centre Opening

Once Upon a Time… There Were Some Very Kind-Hearted Children in West Lynn

The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Issue 4, 2013 £Freewww.marhammattersonline.co.uk

Inside this Issue: Regulars Heavens Above News SSAFA Features Ligthning II to be Based at Marham

The occasion was supported by the local community, RAF personnel and industry partners

conTenTS ISSUe 4, 2013

ISSUe 4, 2013 COVeR CRedIT:

SAC Tracey dobson

edITOR: Alison SmithExt: 7332Email: MRM-BSWAMCO@

mod.uk

SUB-edITOR: Clare SmithExt: 6739Email: [email protected]

RAF MARHAM WeB PAge:www.raf.mod.uk/rafmarham

deSIgNeR: Chris KellerEmail: chris@

lancepublishing.co.uk

SALeS MANAgeR: Jayne BaileyTel: (01536) 526677Email: jayne@

lancepublishing.co.uk

PRINTeR: Lance Print LtdTel: (01480) 492183

dISCLAIMeR: The views expressed by the contributors to the Marham Matters are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander. All Images © Crown Copyright 2013, unless otherwise stated.

STOCKISTS: The Surgery, Marham, Manor Farm Medical Centre, Swaffham, Plowright Medical Centre, Swaffham, The Surgery, Swaffham, Howdale Surgery, Downham Market, Hollies Veterinary Clinic, Downham Market, The Crossings Veterinary Clinic, Downham Market, The Grove Veterinary Surgery, Swaffham, Priory Centre, Downham Market, Lynn News, King’s Lynn, St Martin’s at Shouldham VA Primary School, Marham Infant School, Marham Junior School, Downham Market High School, Hamonds High School, Swaffham, Town Halls in Downham Market, Kings Lynn and Swaffham, BAE, Warton, Armed Forces Careers Office in Norwich, Cambridge and Peterborough, Royal Air Force Association in Downham Market, Downham Market Air Cadets, All other RAF bases

Easter seems a long time ago now, but we hope you all had a good time and managed to get out and enjoy the local area.

This month we cover IX(B) Squadron’s parade in Downham Market, where the community flocked to see the Squadron parade through the town and collect their Herrick medals. The Secretary of State for Defence also came to the Station to announce the decision to base the Lightning II at RAF Marham, read about his visit on page 19. As normal in

Welcome to another edition of Marham Matters.

From the editors

Deadline Date for next Issue:Friday 10th May 2013Please submit all entries for the next issue by the date stated above.

the centre pages we concentrate on community Support topics and we introduce the new Team in the HIVe/cS Hub who are on hand to help with your questions regarding everything from entertainment to housing and community concerns. The HIVe is your first port of call, and if you have a query outside of their expertise they can signpost you to someone who can help. Please keep your stories coming in, until next month, have a good May.

To view this publication online please scan the QR code using a smartphone or tablet.

Stn Cdr’s ForewordBy Gp cpt D J e cooper ............. 4

Heavens AboveWho do you turn to when life is tough? ........................ 6

Community Support SqnFull of community news and upcoming events ..............13

RAF Marham CinemaSee what’s on this month .......16

31 Sqn UpdateFind out how the Sqn are progressing with their 31,000 tonnes challenge .......................................6

ISS-RAFCRL PartenershipThe partnership progresses towards the end of its second year ....................................11

Dads R Us at Marham LibraryA group which gives Dads and children quality time together .......11

Lightning II to be Based at RAF MarhamThe cutting edge stealth fighter will be based at Marham ........... 19

Aviation Heritage Centre OpeningThe occasion was supported by the local community, RAF personnel and industry partners ............... 20

42F (King’s Lynn) Sqn Expedition to IcelandThe main purpose of the expedition was a four day nordic ski expedition crossing the Langjokull glacier ...................................... 24

SSAFAThe Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association Forces Help is one of the UK’s leading Armed Forces charities ........................................ 25

RegulaRs News

FeatuRes

FeatuRes

spoRt & ChaRity

8

IX(B) Sqn Homecoming Parade Last Month personnel from the IX(B) Sqn marched through the streets for their homecoming parade....................... 8

ISSUe 4, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 3www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

London Marathon 2013Jonathan Meadows takes on 26 miles raising money for the RSPcA .....................................22

Once Upon a Time…caring pupils from West Lynn Primary School raise £349 for RAFA Storyboard Wings .............23

RegULARS STATIon coMMAnDeR’S FoReWoRD

4 MARHAM MATTeRS ISSUe 4, 2013 ‘deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’

April was a busy month. It was great to see IX(B) Squadron march through downham Market on their return from Afghanistan – a tricky bit of drill executed brilliantly, with the band providing final polish to the occasion. As a past Officer Commanding IX(B) Squadron and Station Commander at RAF Marham, Air Vice-Marshal Bagwell was delighted to hand out the well-deserved medals. Another Air Vice-Marshal, Peter ewen, kindly opened the RAF Marham Heritage Centre mid-month. The Centre made an instant impact and will continue to do so as it becomes a permanent feature of the Station. I would heartily encourage you to visit the facility when you have a spare hour or so.

The most significant Station event in April was arguably the announcement by the Secretary of State for Defence that RAF Marham had been selected as the UK base for Lightning II, which will come into RAF service later this decade. We had been hoping for this announcement for a few months and it was made all the more special by the Rt Hon Philip Hammond making the announcement in person. Thank-you to everyone that made the short but important visit so slick.

By the time that you read this I hope that II(AC) and IX(B) Squadrons are back to flying operations at Marham – it has been a quiet few weeks with all of our Squadrons away! II(AC) Squadron’s short-notice deployment to the Middle East took them away over Easter and IX(B) Squadron were of course away for Christmas. I hope that you have had time with family

May is my favourite month of the year and we are already seeing a welcome move away from the wind, rain and seasonally low temperatures that seemed to hang around for longer than we had hoped and expected.

and friends since your return. Please also keep 31 Squadron and 3FP Wing in your thoughts as they carry out their hard work in increasing temperatures abroad.

‘The most significant Station event in April was arguably the announcement by the Secretary of State for Defence that RAF Marham had been selected as the UK base for Lightning II… ’ gp Cpt d J e Cooper

So, May will be as busy as ever. Thank-you to you all for your continued support to all our activity at RAF Marham. Have an excellent month!

6 MARHAM MATTeRS ISSUe 4, 2013

RegULARS HeAVenS ABoVe

ISSUe 4, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 7‘deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

Written By: The Chaplaincy Team

Are those closest to you the ones you always turn to, or are your friends people who can be of help without being too involved in your life? It’s when life is difficult and challenging that people most need a friend, and sometimes more poignantly, it’s during those times that they discover who their friends really are.

In these days of social media and constant electronic communication it is easy to lose sight of what true friendship is about. Apparently the average number of friends for a person to have on Facebook is 130, and the average 22 year old has 1,000 plus friends. Before we get too depressed by these statistics - in the words of a famous song writer, ‘It’s nice to be important (and popular), but it’s more important to be nice, (rather than popular).’ Are friends to be collected and acquired in the same way that someone might collect items as part of a hobby? or are they to be valued and nurtured? Is less, more in this instance? Is it about the quality and the depth of our friendships that matter more than simply how many people we might class as friends?

So, if on balance it doesn’t really matter how many people we can count as true friends. What is friendship about? In the christian tradition, there is a song sung which is entitled, ‘When I needed a neighbour were you there, were you

Who do you turn to when life is tough? a family member, a loved one, a close friend, or maybe someone who is not part of your everyday life - who can be supportive in an objective way?

there?’ You may even remember singing it in a school assembly in your youth. Based on a story in the new Testament in The Bible, the song reminds the reader or hearer that friendship and neighbourliness are very closely related. The deepest and most close friendships are about being there for someone in good times and tough times as well. Might this be the test of true friendship? It’s not all about being a friend, but receiving friendship too when we need that support and help and knowing that someone is there standing alongside us, even without asking.

no matter how strong and independent we feel we are, there are always times in our lives when those few valued close friends are needed to support and care, and it’s important to remember that there are those that require our friendship in their time of need too.

During May, there are going to be a few changes in the chaplaincy team at Marham. Padre Philip corrigan, who joined the team in July 2011, will be moving to northolt and Padre Martin Sheldon will be joining the team from Brize norton. We thank Padre Philip for his wise words and caring and encouraging ministry and wish him well in his new posting. Padre Martin is a keen cricketer and will no doubt be doing some recruiting for the summer matches. We wish him well as he settles here with his family.

So far the Sqn have lifted over 9,500 tonnes! Base Support Wing who are ‘competing’ with the Sqn are making progress albeit not quite as fast as the Sqn… yet.

The Sqn is planning to collectively lift 31,000 tonnes (31 million kilograms) to raise money for two worthwhile causes, Scotty’s Little Soldiers and the Tapping House Hospice in norfolk. Donations can be made online through www.bmycharity.com/31000tonnes and www.justgiving.com/31000tonnes or you can donate £5 by texting LIFT88 to 70070 (UK only) for the two respective charities.

31 Sqn, the ’Goldstars’ currently on their third detachment to Afghanistan are making good progress with their 31,000 tonnes challenge!

31Squadron Update

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FeATUReS IX (BoMBeR) SQUADRon HoMecoMInG PARADe


The Squadron returned back from Afghanistan on 13th March 2013 after serving a four month deployment in support of Operation HERRICK providing Close Air Support and Tactical Reconnaissance to UK and Coalition Forces.

The responsibility taken on by the Squadron was no small task when you consider the size of the area of operations. Afghanistan has a landmass of 647,500 square kilometres, slightly larger than Spain and Portugal combined. The terrain is just as impressive; ranging from vast open deserts to mountain peaks of up to 7,485m. over IX(B) Squadron’s

Homecoming ParadeLast month personnel from IX (Bomber) Squadron marched through the streets of Downham Market for their homecoming parade. Marching behind the college Band of RAF cranwell the parade made its way up the road to a fantastic reception from the crowd who had gathered to watch the event.

include flying low and fast over the insurgents; conveying the message, that overwhelming force is in the area and convincing the enemy to withdraw. If the enemy fail to take heed then escalatory measures may be required. Using force is a last resort, but if force is required the Tornado is well equipped with precision weapons such as the Dual Mode Seeker Brimstone missile, the Paveway IV bomb or the 27mm Mauser cannon.

of course none of the sorties could even have left the ground without support from all the other trades that combine to make IX(B) Squadron so successful on operations. The engineers fixed and readied jets, working 12-hour shifts in the face of a challenging Afghan winter. Safety equipment personnel ensured the crews’ flying equipment worked in spite of all the dust. The administrative staff provided welfare

tour of duty they also had to battle thick wet mud, sandstorms, extreme thunderstorms and deep freezing conditions while at the same time maintaining morale over the christmas period. This was done thanks in no small part to the care packages and best wishes sent from home – friends, family and well-wishers all played a big part in keeping up spirits.

A typical sortie could consist of searching for Improvised explosive Devices (IeDs), route sweeping ahead of friendly convoys or providing over-watch of helicopter landing sites, ground forces and tracking suspicious vehicles. In addition to this pre-planned tasking IX(B) Squadron provided over 1400 hours of ground alert in order to scramble in support of friendly forces ‘in contact’ with enemy forces. once in the overhead crews would use various escalatory levels of force in order to deter insurgent forces. The tactics

support to Squadron members and family alike, whilst intelligence and operations staff provided timely support information. on top of their primary duties, all personnel were responsible for force protection and ensuring the base remained safe.

officer commanding no IX(B) Squadron, Wing commander Andy Turk said “All personnel on parade today have served their country with boundless energy and immense professionalism in order to ensure a better life for the people of Afghanistan. This would not have been possible without the fantastic support that we have received from our families, friends and the people of Downham Market and West norfolk. It has been an absolute honour to parade in Downham Market today and receive such a warm welcome from the people that have braved the cold to come and support us.”

I X ( B o m b e r ) S q u a d r o n

“All personnel on parade today have

served their country with boundless

energy and immense professionalism in order

to ensure a better life for the people of

Afghanistan.” Wing Commander Andy Turk


THe ISS-RAFcRL PARTneRSHIP NeWS


Adult Education Family learning ran a ten week course of fun and communication, which included celebrating Australia day, making special gifts for Mums on Mother’s day, designing and making dinosaur and mammoth puppets, exploring textures of clay and having fun with faces, and carrying out science fun activities together.

The course has brought the children closer to their Dads and everyone has enjoyed this quality time together, enhancing communications and trying new things.

dads R Us at Marham Library 2013

HeRe ARe SOMe OF THe COMMeNTS (FROM THe dAdS!):

“The most fun I have had since GcSe Art”

“Great to spend some quality time one to one with my son”

“My son has come on leaps and bounds in the short time we have been attending the course”

“excellent opportunities not to be missed”

“The best way to spend a Saturday morning”

“My children and I really enjoyed this course and would like to do more of the same”

Well, what a time we have had! Marham Library recently hosted ‘Dads R Us,’ a group which aims to give Dads and their children quality time combined with fun activities.

ISS are proud to support 31 Sqn in their bid to raise £31,000 by lifting 31,000 tonnes whilst on their current deployment in Afghanistan, during a recent Top of The Range sponsored night in Louis’ Bar/Grafton Club, £400 was raised in varying ways and presented to organiser SAC(T) Dave Russell to get the project off to a good start, the mini collections have raised a further £100, which we will present to Dave on his return. Comic Relief saw in excess of £300 raised in Louis’ Bar thanks to the stalwart efforts of Den & Bekki McLean ably assisted by Joe “DJ Paddy” Palfreyman, and a further £200 plus was raised by Sgt Jase Woollett & Cpl Rhys Holt in the JRM as reported in the last edition of Marham Matters and the RAF News.

other major recent additions to the retail outlets have been the introduction of costa coffee in Louis’ Bar, proving to be very popular as is the new menu in The Bull Lounge cafe Bar. The menu was designed based on feedback from customers. Angela Ware and her kitchen staff have been kept extremely busy such is the demand for food. The menu will continue to develop and there will be promotional offers to entice you to come and try some of the excellent choices in the future.

AT THe PReSeNT April 8th saw the refresh of the PAYD menu; and along with it changes brought about by customer feedback to

The ISS-RAFCRL PartnershipAs the Super cRL partnership progresses towards the end of its second year, a lot has happened in all outlets in the recent past.

demonstrate the “You said – We listened” policy of ISS. There are 101 new or amended Menus throughout the classic & Retail options, with 12 new Healthy eating options. The Retail choice prices have been increased by less than 5%, and in accordance with the recommendations of the Armed Forces Pay Review Board 2013, the classic choices have been reduced in price in line with the Daily Food charge. A comprehensive list of options & prices can be found on your ISS website at www.iss-rafcrl.co.uk.

To tempt you for the future the Funny Fokkers comedy tour will be performing in the Grafton club on Wednesday 15th May. Tickets are priced at £4.00 of which £1.00 goes to RAFA and there will be a free promotional drink or food. To date the tour has been received exceptionally well. The comedians performing at Marham are Rob Rouse who is regularly seen on TV in programmes such as, John Bishops comedy Show, Dave’s one night Stand, 8 out of 10 cats and celebrity Juice. Phil nicol starred in the film confetti and has appeared on The Graham norton show, amongst others. The feedback from other Units has been most positive with the most used word AWeSoMe. If you’ve ever been to the comedy club at the corn exchange in King’s Lynn the “Funny Fokkers” is definitely a night that you will not want to miss. Tickets are limited and are on sale in all retail outlets, in Mess Bars and the ISS office in catering Squadron Headquarters.

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12 MARHAM MATTeRS ISSUe 4, 2013 ISSUe 4, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 13‘deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

COMMUNITy SUPPORT WeBSITe www.marhamhub.co.uk

HIVe INFORMATION Natalie Warner, Tel: (01760) 446121 or (01760) 337261 ext: 7425 email: [email protected]

SCSO Flt Sgt Terry Norman, Tel: (01760) 446052, on base 95951 6052 email: [email protected]

OC CSF Flt Lt gary Walker, Tel: (01760) 337261 ext: 7158 email: [email protected]

COMMUNITy deVeLOPMeNT Rita Broomfield, Tel: (01760) 337261 ext: 7158

SAFeR NeIgHBOURHOOd TeAM, WATLINgTON Tel: 0845 456 4567 or 101

MOdeRN HOUSINg SOLUTIONS (MHS) Help desk, Tel: 0800 707 6000 option 4

HOUSINg ALLOCATION SeRVICe CeNTRe (HASC) Tel: 0800 169 6322 / 94510 8000email: [email protected] (eastern Region)

MARHAM LOdgeS Bookings, Tel: community Support Hub or (01760) 446136

SSAFA Tom Smith, Tel: (01760) 446051 ext: 6051Liz Smith, Tel: (01760) 446900 ext: 6900

SSAFA VOLUNTeeR CO-ORdINATOR Tel: 07984 908622

OC PSF Flt Lt Joanna Chubb, Tel: (01760) 337261 ext: 7489

yOUTH WORKeR Angela Caley, Tel: (01760) 446136 cS Hubemail: [email protected]. uk

The New RAF Marham community Support Team

COMMUNITy SUPPORT SqUAdRON

Left: Mrs Natalie Warner, Hive Information Officer

Right: Flt Sgt Terry Norman, Station Community Support Officer

Left: Flt Lt Gary Walker, OC Community Support Flight

Right: Nikki Savage

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Family Mediation is intended as a safe and confidential process to help separating and divorced couples make positive and practical decisions on issues such as contact with children, finance and property matters each suited to their own unique situations. Mediation therefore gives a step by step way of thinking through the options.

To assist those here at RAF Marham who may be seeking mediation, community Support have therefore

Norfolk Family Mediation Servicechanges introduced to the legal aid system on the 1st April 2013 have resulted in legal aid being withdrawn from most matrimonial disputes apart from mediation, which is seen as the ideal route to assist in resolving family disputes.

arranged for the norfolk Family Mediation Service to hold confidential surgeries in the Hub starting on the 7th May, the intention being to hold a surgery every two weeks, on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month.

If you would like to book an appointment to see a counsellor, please contact the Hive on ext: 7425.

Although Sam is not being replaced, it is hoped to continue the library service with voluntary assistance although for a short period it will be open by appointment only through Community Support. Any courses booked to be held in the library will continue as normal.

However, it is hoped that this will be a temporary arrangement for a very limited period while a team of volunteer librarians is formed to allow the library to function as normal. In this respect we are actively currently seeking volunteers who may be interested in helping out. Anybody who is interested is asked to contact Flt Lt Gary Walker in community Support for more details.

Changes to the RAF Marham Librarychanges are taking place in the Station Library, with our losing, after years of good service, Sam West the Station Librarian on the 22nd May.

Dereham and Swaffham costa coffee are offering 10% discount with your Armed Forces Discount card. However with this page of Marham Matters you can claim 15% discount at either branch. (Please note discounts cannot be used at the same time).

Costa Coffee

The last meeting finished off with a promise ceremony for Holly, Paige, Ella and Evie. Welcome to the pack girls.

They are all back now after the easter Holidays and are working hard towards their big production of Alice in Wonderland (with a brownie twist!) The girls are busy making scenery, learning their lines and some new songs. The production will take place on Wednesday 22nd May in the Sandringham centre starting at 6pm. everyone is welcome to come along.

If you have a daughter who is interested in joining Brownies, Rainbows, Guides or Senior Section then you can register your interest by visiting the following website at www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested

1st RAF Marham

BrowniesThe Brownies finished off their chocolate challenge just before easter with all the girls receiving a badge for the work that they had done.

For all RAF Marham personnel and their families. Find out about courses, qualifications and careers. chat to visiting staff from: colleges, Universities, open University, professional organisations, Training companies, Job centre Plus, career Transition Partnership, Indigo Dyslexia Service.

Families welcome, treats for the children.

For further details contact: The Learning centre on ext: 7167, 7291 or 7162.

The Learning centre is part of FDS (opposite the Grafton club and small Spar shop).

Take that first small step.

Open dayWednesday 22nd May, drop in any time from 10am till 3.30pm

ART WORKSHOPSAs part of Airplay’s creative Arts programme we will be starting some Art Workshops on Wednesday 24th April for all 8-18 year olds, running up until the end of the Summer Term in July. We have an excellent Art Tutor coming in to do all sorts of exciting Art with the young people, including Wall Art, for the Youth centre! Sessions will run from 7pm to 9pm and will cost just £1 a session. Members don’t have to come for the whole session to join in. no pre-booking required just turn up!

COOKeRy CLUB! on Thursday 25th May we will be starting a new cookery club called ‘Stir Krazy!’, running from 4pm to 5:30pm. The club will teach the young people the basics of cooking, and will give them more confidence in the kitchen! The club will run for five sessions, from Thursday 25th April till 23rd May for 8 year olds – Year 6’s only. (Year 7+ will have their turn after May Half Term!) Pre-booking is required due to the nature of the club, with payment for the five sessions beforehand of £5 in total. Please contact Angela to book a place!

Airplaynews

eASTeR ACTIVITIeSover 40 young people took part in the easter activities organised for 8-18 year olds, both at the Youth centre and off-site. Activities included an easter egg hunt, Football coaching and a cinema trip!

CONCeRT ANd CURRy eVeNINgThis was a huge success with over 50 people attending from the RAF community. The young people did themselves proud and it was a great event!

AirplayUpcoming events…The council has reported that it is very pleased with how many people have got involved in the service with over 200 tonnes having been collected in the first two weeks that it had been running. All the waste is turned into industrial grade soil improver, rather than being sent to landfill so a big thank you to each and every one of you that has participated

However, the waste is collected in newly provided waste food caddyies which must be lined with a specially designed degradable bag. Although a supply of bags was provided when the caddies were first issued, householders are responsible for purchasing their own bags in the future these being available from the supermarket or Local council, who sell them at a discounted cost. To assist with this community Support have also arranged to bulk buy the bags for sale through the RAF Marham Thrift Shop at the discounted price, thereby avoiding the need to travel to the local council office to buy them.

community Support to Assist RecyclingAll of the RAF community living in SFA will be aware that from the beginning of April a new recycling system was introduced with households now being responsible for recycling all food waste.

INTeRNeT WORKSHOP FOR PAReNTSDoes your child use the Internet? If the answer is yes, then you’re invited to our ‘Savvy Parents’ Guide to the Internet on Thursday 2nd May 7:30pm to 8:30pm. It’s free, there’ll be refreshments and it will be a great way to find out about some of the things your child is doing online, the risks, and ways to keep them safe online. All resources will be from

ThinkuKnow, part of ceoP. We will also be covering this with the young people ahead of the Youth centre getting internet access in the near future.

For more info on any of the events, contact Angela caley, Station Youth Worker, at [email protected].

Image: © EDHAR, shutterstock.com

Taxis Up to 8 seatsMinibuses 8-16 & 21 seats

Get around safely andbook early to avoid disappointment

BISHOPS TRAVELCall Gary or Denise 01366 324307

Mobile 07767 304684 07789 724366

wish all at RAF Marham a merry Christmasand a happy New Year


NO MeMBeRSHIP IS ReqUIRed A small donation of £1 per person would be gratefully received upon entry, to help maintain this service.

OPeNINg TIMeS Sunday Doors open at 2pm and the film starts at 2:30pmMonday Doors open at 7pm and the film starts at 7:30pm

Film listings for…

May

HOW TO FINd US… Located in the refurbished Louis Bar Function Room (Grafton club) shown on the large screen in a relaxed, comfortably seated atmosphere.

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CLOSed, BANK HOLIdAyThe cinema will be

closed and the next film will be on Sunday 12th May.


closed and the next film will be on Sunday 2nd June.


closed and the next film will be on Sunday 12th May.


closed and the next film will be on Sunday 2nd June.

SCOOBy dOO & THe LOCH NeSS MONSTeR

Pg, 72 mins Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, and the Mystery Inc. crew travel to Scotland on vacation and find themselves unexpectedly tackling their biggest monstrosity ever: the Loch ness Monster!

THe HOBBIT12, 169 mins A younger and

more reluctant Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins, sets out on an “unexpected journey” to the Lonely Mountain with a spirited group of Dwarves to reclaim their stolen mountain home from a dragon named Smaug.

LeS MISeRABLeS12, 158 mins In 19th-century France,

Jean Valjean, who for decades has been hunted by the ruthless policeman Javert after he breaks parole, agrees to care for factory worker Fantine’s daughter, cosette. The fateful decision changes their lives forever.

HOPPg, 95 mins e.B., the easter

Bunny’s teenage son, heads to Hollywood, determined to become a drummer in a rock ‘n’ roll band. In LA, he’s taken in by Fred after the out-of-work slacker hits e.B. with his car.

Sun

5

Sun

26

Mon

6

Mon

27

Sun

19

Mon

13

Mon

20Sun

12


OC TDF Flt Lt Ann-Marie Noble, who has been receiving treatment for cervical cancer offered to have her head shaved for charity. ‘I wanted something good to come out of my illness and what better way than to make sure one of our Station charities got the benefit of this,’ commented Ann-Marie.

originally diagnosed last year, she has recently learned that the cancer is now more advanced than originally thought and sadly, her current treatment would have resulted in her losing her long blonde hair.

over £1,200 was raised on the day at the charity Haircut from donations and a coffee and cake stall. Ann-Marie said, ‘I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who came along and supported me on the day, and to those who donated cakes and who have

The work of the Deployed Families Welfare Fund has been given a massive boost thanks to a charity Haircut at Marham.

Charity Haircut

given so generously for this important work among the deployed families on Station’.

Ann-Marie, who is currently undergoing treatment at Addenbrookes Hospital, is hoping that her situation will raise awareness of the importance of regular health checks especially among female Service Personnel.

Money is still being collected for this Fund and can be passed directly to Accounts Flt or TDF or the chaplaincy centre.

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Sessional childcare : Monday to FridayPre-School Manager: Debbie Sammons, 47 Wretton Road, Stoke Ferry,

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School Term Time: children aged 2 to 5

Holiday clubs for 2 - 8 year olds

15 hrs a week funded places for children ages 3 & 4

Places available forSpecial Educational Needs

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Four trained staff: NVQ2, NVQ3, NVQ4,BA(Hons), EYPS awarded

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Parent quote: “…it has a great reputation and being able to take our son to a local,

well respected pre-school is fantastic.”

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mirrors’01553 763164

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for all your financial needs

Contact: Peter Oddey APFSTel: 01366 348037

Chartered Financial Plannerwww.spectrumfinancialplanning.co.uk

Address: Fodderston Mill, Mill Road,

Shouldham Thorpe, Kings Lynn, PE33 0EA

Spectrum Financial Planning is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

A FRESH TASTE OF THE SEA

DONALDSONS

AUSTIN FIELDS, KING’S LYNNTEL: 01553 772241

S. & D. WilliamsonProprietors

Licensed Game Dealer

For all your fresh, smoked & shellfish, visit your local friendly fishmonger!

OPEN: Tues: 7-4 Wed 7-4 Thurs 7-5 Fri 7-5 Sat 7-3

Visit our deli counter for a selection of British cheeses, Italian olives,ham on the bone and patés.

BY APPOINTMENT TO HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II

WASTE DISPOSAL CONTRACTORS

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LIGHTnInG II To Be BASeD AT RAF MARHAM FeATUReS


the lightning ii is the most advanced jet our armed Forces have ever operated and the decision to base it from RaF Marham has secured the future of the base. the decision will also mean new investment and infrastructure to make RaF Marham the Main operating Base for the aircraft.

Lightning II will be jointly operated by the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy and will operate from the Navy’s new Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers as well as Marham.

The Defence Secretary visited RAF Marham to view the facilities and talk to personnel ahead of the announcement.

Speaking from RAF Marham, Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said: “This is the next step in the restructuring of the Armed Forces, providing them with the world’s most capable combat aircraft. Basing the new Lightning II at RAF Marham makes strategic sense and best use of the resources available. It also secures the future of one of the UK’s most operationally-experienced bases. The Lightning II is the most advanced jet our Armed Forces have ever operated, and carries on the tradition of the Harrier, while having far greater range, payload and defensive capability. Now this decision has been taken, we can start the planning and infrastructure investment required for RAF Marham’s future.”

RAF Marham Station Commander Group Captain David Cooper said: “I am delighted that the Secretary of State today announced that Royal Air Force Marham is selected as the Lightning II Base. This is excellent news for my personnel, for the local community and region, and for the Royal Air Force and UK Defence.”

Lightning II to be Based at RAF MarhamThe new cutting edge Lightning II stealth fighter aircraft will be based at RAF Marham, the Defence Secretary Philip Hammond has announced last month.

PushchairsBeddingFurnitureCar Seats

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fish and accessories,

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clothing, Gifts, Books,

DVDs, Garden furniture

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Coffee shop open daily until 4pm, 3:30pm on Sundays.Serving lunches between 12-2pm, Sunday lunches also.

Opening Times

Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm

Sun 10am - 4pm

Poppyfields Drive, Snettisham PE31 7UD 01485 544638

Just off the A149

The event was supported by people from the local community, Royal Air Force Marham personnel and industry partners who have donated time and funds to the project. The Centre will initially be open to visit by appointment only, and on the last Saturday of every month between 9am and 4pm. However, it is hoped that opening hours will increase over the coming months. Appointments to visit the Centre can be made by calling 07717 426961 during office hours.

The aim of the curator, Wo Roberts, is to provide a fitting tribute to all ex and serving members of Royal Air Force Marham. In addition, to create a lasting historical legacy as Royal Air Force Marham is the last remaining operational airbase in norfolk. Wo Roberts said, “I hope that the Aviation Heritage centre at RAF Marham will be a place which personnel who have served or have connections with RAF Marham and the community, can visit, to learn, experience and relive the Unit’s achievements from its origins, through the present day and into the future.”

Senior Heritage officer, AVM ewen, added: “This heritage centre brings to life the great history of Royal Air Force Marham. Today, Royal Air Force Marham is a front line operational Tornado GR 4 base, delivering operational success in Afghanistan, Libya and ready to do so again wherever needed. And, as the Secretary of State for Defence has recently announced, Royal Air Force Marham is the future home of the UK’s stealth Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter – today we celebrate the excellent past, present and future of this great station – Royal Air Force Marham.

RAF Marham Aviation Heritage Centre OpeningLast month saw Air Vice-Marshal (AVM) Peter ewen, the chief of Staff Support and Senior Heritage officer, officially open the Royal Air Force Marham Aviation Heritage centre, which has developed from a Station History Room to the Aviation Heritage centre it is today, under the care and direction of Warrant officer (Wo) Steve Roberts.

of course, we can do none of this on our own and I pay tribute to the local community and to our industrial partners that have supported this station throughout and will continue to do so in the future.”

In the longer term the centre aims to create an interactive learning facility by capturing, archiving and referencing

every one of the 15,000 plus photographs and historic documents within the current collection, many of them are closely associated with life at Royal Air Force Marham and the surrounding area. outside a Garden of Remembrance will provide a place to visit and sit in quiet contemplation remembering those who have served.

“ This heritage centre brings to life the great history of RAF Marham. Today, RAF Marham is a front line operational Tornado GR 4 base, delivering operational success in Afghanistan, Libya and ready to do so again wherever needed.” Senior Heritage Officer, AVM ewen


FeATUReS AVIATIon HeRITAGe cenTRe oPenInG


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for as little £15* per month call:

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West Lynn Primary School pupils decided to make Storybook Wings charity of the year after taking part in a Remembrance Day project last year.

Teacher Julie Lister said: “They realised parents in the Armed Forces would worry about the children they were leaving behind.”

Money was raised at the school’s harvest festival and nativity performances and presented to the King’s Lynn and District Branch of the Royal Air Forces

Once Upon a Time… There Were Some Very Kind-Hearted Children in West Lynncaring Pupils from West Lynn Primary School raise £349 for RAFA Storyboard Wings.

Association. RAFA nationally helps parents record their stories on cD’s and sends them to the children in a personalised cover.

Mrs Lister said “The pupils put their hearts and souls into this, it was quite moving and lovely.”

Pictured are West Lynn Primary School pupils, centre from left, Lily Coe,Jessica Raffam and Hayley Dunne, presenting £349 to RAFA representatives Wg Cdr Tommy Tucker and RAFA Branch Secretary Michael Forster.

The Royal Air Forces Association has secured places in the following events through 2013 and is looking for volunteers to take part and raise money.

Do Your Bit for RAFA! RAFA Fundraising opportunities 2013.

edINBURgH MARATHON FeSTIVAL 26th to 27th May Full or Half Marathon

NIgHTRIdeR 2013 8th to 9th June cycle the capital (London) in one night.

gReAT NORTH RUN15th September

gReAT SOUTH RUN 27th October

VARIOUS OTHeR RUNS*

For more details or to sign up, please contact Sqn Ldr Higgins, Senior RAFALo, ext: 6741

*If there is a run not listed that you are particularly interested in, RAFA can usually secure places if specifically requested. A minimum sponsorship amount applies for most events.

CHARITy LonDon MARATHon 2013 once UPon A TIMe… CHARITy

Well, after 21 years in the RAF almost exclusively on the Tornado Force, first as a navigator and then as a pilot, my contract was due to end and I would soon be a civilian. It was either this (or a hopefully early mid-life crisis) that prompted me to attempt a marathon while I was still in my thirties. Although it is possible to participate in the Marathon as a ballot entry, I was determined to get a place officially supporting a charity. Both my wife and I are animal lovers but particularly cats and for us it had to be the RSPCA.

once selected it became clear that two challenges lay before me, preparing myself physically for the race and raising the minimum £2,000 required to secure the Golden Bond place. In my typical military mind I agreed with a certain TV presenter asking “How hard can it be?” A

LondonMarathon2013Have you ever watched an event like a marathon on the television and thought that it was something that you wanted to do but never got round to it? or maybe you believed that it was too hard to get a place or was only for serious runners. That’s where I was till I received the phone call last year informing me that I had been awarded a golden bond entry for the 2013 Marathon in support of the RSPcA. How did I go from watching the event last year on television and now only a few days away from participating myself?

bit of running, a bit of publicity, book a hotel in London and that was it. How wrong I was!

The furthest I had run before was ten miles so I assumed that it was just 2.5 times that and all that would be required was to beast myself in the gym increasing by a mile every few weeks until I could run 26 miles. Fitness was the key. once again totally wrong. When you start to cover such distances, you can’t just get through on willpower, your body will stop. It requires many months of training and commitment to be ready, often alone in poor weather or darkness hours depending on your shift pattern. Finally after my last big run of just over 20 miles, the last few weeks have been about letting your body repair and be in peak order for the day. You must not do such damage training that you are unable to participate. Merely turning up on the day uninjured is 90% of the battle.

now to fundraising. once again this was an area that I was woefully unprepared for. It was only when I started researching did I realise how many requests there are for sponsorship at anytime. I also to my shame realised how many times I had read a request for sponsorship and either forgotten about it or never got round to it. now I was asking for people to support me in a charity that I deeply believed in when they may have an equally deserving charity that means far more to them. What I learnt was that the charity side of the attempt became almost bigger than the fitness training. Do not underestimate the preparation and work required to raise the funds you need. But the overall lesson I will take away is the unbelievable kindness of people out there who have sponsored me. From now on, having been through this I have pledged to contribute whatever small amount I can when I receive a request. even something as small as £1, because I know what it means to see these pledges come in, regardless of the amount. It really does motivate you to get up and go for that run when the weather is terrible.

So what have I learnt from this so far? I have learnt that although it has pushed me physically almost to breaking point, there is something healthy about having projects in your life. There is a pride that you are attempting something that’s says something about your character. Why not after reading this think again about that event you have always wanted to do? It really does feel good to know that by your efforts a charity will receive money that will make a difference. But it really isn’t that hard to make a big difference. We don’t all have to run the marathon! It can be something as simple as putting a few coppers in the charity pots. It’s not the quantity that counts, it’s the desire to help support a cause because you think it’s right and in any way you can. on Sunday the focus will be on all of us trying to complete the 26 miles but to all of you out there who have supported us, we know that it is you who have got us there.

Written By: Jonathan Meadows

THE OLD GRANARY ANTIQUES

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07732 867904Upper Marham

King’s LynnPE33 9LL

Busy B’s CleaningAdding a little

sparkle to make march

outs stress free

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NeWS 42F (KInG’S LYnn) SQn eXPeDITIon To IceLAnD

‘deliver Battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’

A group of air cadets and staff from 42F (Kings Lynn) Squadron ATC has just returned from a fantastic expedition in Iceland. The team consisted of Flt Lt Pauline Petch OC of 42F Kings Lynn Squadron who organised the weeklong trip to Iceland, Fg Off Chris Barrett and eight cadets. The visit comprised of cultural visits to museums, together with activities such as horse riding and swimming. However, the main purpose of the visit was a four day Nordic ski expedition crossing the bleak snow covered Langjokull glacier, pulling pulkas loaded with all the equipment needed to survive in such desolate and icy conditions.

Langjökull glacier is Iceland s second largest and the one closest to Reykjavík. on the first day of the expedition the team met at the Trek base to check equipment and to fit skis and boots in addition to also checking tents and briefing on the trek plan. once everything was ready and prepared, a two hour scenic truck ride to the glacier followed, stopping along the way to see the Hraunfossar waterfalls. At about 700m above sea level skis were put on and the pulkas attached for the first ski day up the west side of the glacier, about 1,100 m above sea level.

With the skiing and the sheer weight of the pulkas this was very slow going. However after four hours skiing the first camp area was reached and the camp prepared for the first night on the glacier. Day two saw an early start with temperatures far below what we were used to by UK standards. Skiing began towards the top of the glacier

TIW affiliated Air cadets and Staff of 42F (King’s Lynn) Squadron have just returned from a fantastic expedition to Iceland.

and at midday Þursaborg, a rocky summit protruding through the glacier at 1,300 metres above sea level, was passed. The team continued on until the light began to fade before setting up the second camp, with views towards Þingvellir and southern Iceland. The third day began with icy snow falling and a complete white-out. All that could be seen was the tents - no horizon, sun or sky. This was to be a very challenging day.

However by Day four the weather improved with bright sunlight glimmering on the snow and the crossing of Langjökull completed by descending all the way to the glacier edge on the eastern side, where we were met by the transport that was to take us back to civilisation.

The final three days of the trip were spent visiting Blue Lagoon, trying out Icelandic Horse Riding and visiting the national Museum of Iceland, before it became necessary to say cheerio to what had been the experience of a lifetime and heading on back to the positively balmy temperatures of the UK.

There are no words that can summarise the sense of adventure that the team experienced. It was definitely the trip of a lifetime and all team members returned with a renewed sense of enthusiasm.

This visit more than lived up to the corps motto… ‘Venture. Adventure’ and that of 42F King’s Lynn Squadron ‘Determined to Achieve.’

42F (King’s Lynn) Squadron

expedition to IcelandAll those who wish to will be given the opportunity to meet the team and to voice their views on the subjects under discussion which are used to inform MOD and other bodies at the highest levels.

now in its 6th year of operation, the RAF Families Federation (RAF FF) has been asked to provide independent evidence again this year on a range of subjects to the Armed Forces Pay Review Body (AFPRB); the House of commons Defence committee; the new employment Model project teams; and the Armed Forces covenant Reference Group.

To ensure that the evidence they represent on behalf of families is up-to-date, accurate and balanced, the RAF FF need our support in promoting their evidence-gathering activities both at unit level and on-line via their website. The focus of their interactive evidence-gathering activities in March, April and May will be around the subject of:

Pay, Allowances and Quality of Life. This survey will feed their independent report to the Armed Forces Pay Review Body (AFPRB) later this year. Questions will build on previous years’ exploration of attitudes toward pay, allowances and pensions. They will also gather quality-of-life evidence on issues such as: separations due to operational commitments, debt management and our work-life balance. The AFPRB have confirmed the value of previous reports submitted by the RAF Families Federation and they have been asked to continue to provide such evidence to inform the work of the AFPRB in 2013.

The visit will be a great opportunity for personnel and their families to provide direct feedback to those of influence who are also empowered to make changes.

8th to 10th May 2013

The Families Federation will be visiting RAF MarhamThe purpose of the visit will be to meet both serving personnel and families in order to seek their views, the subject for this years visit being Pay and Allowances and Quality of Life.

SSAFA FoRceS HeLP NeWS

ISSUe 4, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 25www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

They have been supporting the Forces and their families for over 125 years, making them one of Britain’s most trusted charities.

Whether you are currently serving in the Forces or have served in the past, SSAFA can provide direct financial, practical and emotional support to you and your family. SSAFA’s network of volunteers and staff give experienced, non-judgemental and friendly advice, and provide practical services that cover a range of social, family and financial issues.

So after 125 years of service to families, past and present, SSAFA have had a re-think about themselves. Probably everyone within the armed forces, know who SSAFA are, some of you may actually be able to

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen & Families Association (SSAFA) Forces HelpThe Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help is one of the UK’s leading Armed Forces charities.

say what SSAFA stands for without getting it mixed up and without looking at the heading above. But SSAFA felt that not enough people knew who they were, especially those external to the armed forces. SSAFA needed to communicate its role in a more focused and succinct manner so that they could reach more clients and supporters. So, SSAFA is taking itself forward with new branding, and to help make their purpose clear have added a descriptive strap line explaining exactly what they do!

As of the 10th April 2013, the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association - Forces Help, will simply refer to themselves as “SSAFA”. no need to explain what SSAFA stands for, they are now “SSAFA”, which is what you all know them as. The new SSAFA brand identity is much more than just a name change and a new logo. SSAFA have put “family” at the heart of the new identity and articulated a clear purpose, to provide “lifelong support for our Forces and their families.”

dId yOU KNOW SSAFA MARHAM HAVe…• Its own Personal Support & Social

Work Service: Tom Smith and Liz Smith are based in the SSAFA office, near the main SPAR outside camp. They can be contacted on 01760 446051 or 446900

• Its own team of SSAFA Community volunteers who regularly support RAF Marham families and individuals with practical help and support

• Its own fundraising committee who last year help raise and donated just under £4,000 to help families all within the RAF Marham community

All funds raised by SSAFA Marham stay within the RAF Marham community!

Are you interested in helping out and joining the SSAFA Marham team? We need volunteers to act as committee members and fundraisers. Please contact: [email protected].

INgRedIeNTS• 500g chicken fillets, cut

into thin strips• 1 tablespoon oil• 1 lettuce chopped• 1 spring onion• ½ red pepper, cut into thin strips• 6 mint leaves, torn• 20g coriander leaves• 20g toasted cashew nuts

dReSSINg• 1 tablespoon fish sauce• 2 tablespoons lime juice• 1 teaspoon castor sugar• 1-2 small red chillies, finely chopped

MeTHOd1. Dressing: combine all ingredients

in a bowl and mix well.2. Heat oil in a wok or frying pan.3. Stir fry chicken in batches for

3-4 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from pan.

4. combine the chicken with the dressing while still warm and toss with the lettuce, spring onion, mint, red pepper, coriander and cashew nuts.

5. Serve immediately.

Recipe By: SAC Rooney, Junior Ranks Mess

Thai Chicken & Cashew Nut Salad

• Sweet & Savoury Treats• ‘Guess the Quantity’ on a £30 worth Jar full of Retro Favourites

• Home-made pooch biscuits on sale too

Hounds for HeroesGreat British Bake off Sale on 2nd May 2013 from 08:00 till 12:00 located at oasis Lounge within the church by the main gate.

Documents

Once Upon a Time… IX(B) Sqn in West Lynn … · Once Upon a Time… There Were Some Very Kind-Hearted Children in West Lynn The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Issue