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Wor
ld
Win
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2015 Wycombe
World
The Magazine of RAF High Wycombe Autumn 2015
Photographers Command Judges’
Attention
S t A t i o n r e m A i n S b i k e S A f e | p A d r e S p A u S e | r A f L o n e p i p e r
ENJOY the finest Downland golf at Harleyford Golf Club
Harleyford Golf Club is located in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, nestled beside the River Thames. Set within the beautiful and tranquil surroundings
of the historic Harleyford Estate. Designed by leading golf course architect
Donald Steel, the Par 72, 6714 yard course offers a good challenge to golfers of all abilities.
The course is free draining and playable all year, with USGA specification greens.
We Offer Heavily Discounted Membership Rates for the Armed Forces
Plus a Fantastic Range of Winter Society Packagesare from £37.50pp and Summer Packages from £40pp
Harleyford Estate, Henley Road, Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 2SPTelephone: 01628 816178 Email: [email protected]
Website: www.harleyfordgolf.co.uk
Harleyford Golf Club is set in truly magnificent surroundings, nestled by the River Thames at Marlow. Discovering Harleyford for the first time is like uncovering a hidden treasure.
Beautifully crafted in a natural parkland setting, the 6,714 yard par 72 course is both challenging and rewarding to players of all levels. Designed by leading golf course architect Donald Steele, the course is free draining and playable all year, with USGA specification greens delivering the very best putting surface.
Players are able to warm up on the driving range and chipping area which are located close to the clubhouse, together with our two practice greens.
Our signature hole is the par 3, 12th, named “The Chalkpit” which has the picturesque Folly as the backdrop and is a true visual treat.
The history of the estate dates back to the 12th century and is designated as “an area
of outstanding beauty”. The clubhouse has been developed on a theme from the Victorian farm buildings and provides stunning facilities for many social occasions.
Now a Proprietary owned club Harleyford, maintains a feeling of exclusivity, but with a friendly and sociable atmosphere with plenty of events and competitions to participate in throughout the year.
Harleyford is also the perfect venue to hold your next business event. Set in magnificent quiet surroundings just 10 minutes from the M40, our conference facilities offer self-contained private rooms with free accessible parking.
• Conferences• Training Courses• Seminars• Team Building Events• Off-site Meetings• Breakfast Meetings
Flight Lieutenant Andy Keeley
editor: Flt Lt A Keeley Ext 4454Deputy Editor: FS Kerry Murphy-Brown Ext 7194Head of Contribution: Sqn Ldr Holly Steel Ext 6085distribution: WO Stu Redpath Ext 4270mailbox: HWY-Editor WycombeWorld
All articles are to be in ‘Word’ format with separate JPEG images.
designer: Lance Publishing Ltdtel: (01536) 521126 Email: [email protected]
Advertising: Tammie RidlerTel: (01536) 526667 Email: [email protected]
published by: Lance Publishing Ltd1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL tel: (01536) 512624 fax: (01536) 515481email: [email protected]
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Editorial Team
SubmissionDeadline...All articles for the Winter iSSue 2015 edition to be sent to the editor no later than 27 Nov 2015 to HWY-Editor WycombeWorld. Please send files as word documents with separate photos in the Jpeg format with highest possible quality to HWY-Editor [email protected].
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The views expressed by the contributors to the Wycombe World 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.
WW: WW:54 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015
Contents Autumn 2015Foreword
Welcome
Station Commander’s
Group Captain Philip Lester MA MPhil (Cantab) FCMI RAF
Wor
ld
Win
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2015 Wycombe
World
The Magazine of RAF High Wycombe Autumn 2015
Photographers Command Judges’
Attention
S t A t i o n r e m A i n S b i k e S A f e | p A d r e S p A u S e | r A f L o n e p i p e r
Editor’s
6 Station remains Bikesafe
8 In Pictures – RAF Photo Competition 2015
10 Station Commander’s Cup 2015
12 Supporting USVF
16 Padres Pause
16 A trip down memory lane...
17 Op SEE THE SUN
19 AFV 2015
19 Specialist in Personal Learning
20 Freedom, Honours and Awards
24 100 years of policewomen
25 Napfest 2015
26 Chiltern Music Therapy
26 Visit to Kids in Sport Charity
27 RAF Lone Piper
28 Changing of the SWO
29 Ceremony of the Keys
30 JET Cycle
30 Victorious Vikings
31 Great British Sunday Lunch
F rom the charity work for the John Egging Trust, in response to the Nepalese
Earthquake and with the Station’s nominated charities, to community engagement with youth sports and Napfest; personnel from all corners of the Station continue to go above and beyond their duty. BikeSafe, FD events and CO’s Cup provided a rich variety of activities for the
As you will see when perusing this edition of the Wycombe World it has been a summer packed with events, but what stood out for me was the outstanding contribution given by teams and individuals outside of their workplace.whole force, and I am confident that the onset of Autumn will not slow down our efforts outside of the office. Finally personnel have been representing the Station admirably at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and RAF Photographic Competition, in fact so much good work has taken place that three large Honours and Awards Ceremonies were proudly staged in this quarter.
So if you’re doing something interesting, rewarding or little bit different; send an article with good quality photos to the Editor’s email (see left). As MCO I can also help with organising your event, no matter how big or small, ensuring it doesn’t conflict with other goings on and helping you tick all the boxes by following the Station’s Events Policy. Until then I hope you find time to enjoy the remaining sun!
Summer has gone (was it ever here) and what have we got to look forward to?
F irst and foremost is the opportunity for us all to engage with the MoD
senior leadership through the Your Say Survey. While I can hear the groans about another survey and allegations of ‘no one is listening so what’s the point’, I genuinely believe that this survey is important and indeed listened to. Evidence from the last survey would
show that many of your concerns have prompted behavioural and attitudinal change, especially with regard to leadership, communication, health & wellbeing as well as learning & development. That said, we are still far from perfect and your input to this year’s survey will assist me in helping you. I also welcome the free and frank discussions about how the Stn supports all at High Wycombe, the USVF and the RAF Diaspora…so keep poking me in the chest!
From this edition forward, Wycombe World will include an article from one of the USVF bases…this edition’s is from RAF Lakenheath. The aim of this is twofold. First to highlight to our Community at High Wycombe the significant role the Stn and my UK LO team perform for our American guests and, secondly, and arguably more importantly, for you all to understand the significant contribution that c1700 Air Command employees are doing in support of the US mission.
Finally, security and safety! We are progressing with a number
of enhancements for the estate and these will be notified to you through other means but they will include changes to our some of our security SOPs / TTPs. My intent, following a period of briefing / training is to start exercising them over next 3 months. Security is only effective if it is layered, coordinated and appropriate and we all need to play our part. Outside of formal plans and procedures I also wish to emphasise the importance of personal security and safety. When you are ‘out and about’, especially between sites and on the SFA patches, can I remind you of the need to be vigilant and security / safety conscious…: be alert, be attuned to the environment and aware of suspicious activity….then report any concerns to the RAFP on Ext 6721, the MPGS Guard Commander on Ext 6481 or direct to Thames Valley Police via 999.
Enjoy the Indian Summer while it lasts…and I look forward to seeing you at the forthcoming Remembrance Parades and Poppy Day events.
Non Sibi
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Station Remains BikeSafeRAF High Wycombe recently
hosted the Metropolitan Police BikeSafe Team,
who delivered an interactive workshop to help improve the skills of 20 RAF motorcyclists.
The 10 advanced police riders who facilitated the day are trained to be amongst the safest drivers on the road, and the RAF High Wycombe BikeSafe Day on 25th August allowed them to provide detailed briefings on hazard awareness and how to make motorcycling safer.
Road accidents remain the biggest single cause of fatalities within the Service, and in the past 5 years 7 RAF
personnel have been killed whilst riding motorcycles.
Air Vice-Marshal Gavin Parker, Air Officer Commanding 2 Group, took part in the event, and said “motorcycles are great fun but the statistics are very worrying. We must do all that we can to increase everyone’s awareness of bike safety.”
He continued “The BikeSafe course is an excellent way to raise awareness. The Police specialists provide the best guidance available, pitching at exactly the right level for each rider’s experience. Above all it offers the opportunity for a great day out, is classed as duty, and is paid for by 38 Group - what a great initiative! I
would recommend it to all riders within the whole force.”
A morning of roadcraft theory in the European Air Group Conference Room was followed by an on-road assessed ride where an experienced BikeSafe assessor provided participants with detailed one-to-one feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of their riding. ESS once again supported the event by providing free catering for the riders and police instructors.
The organiser of High Wycombe’s BikeSafe, Sqn Ldr Stephen Sharpe, said “personally, as a keen motorcyclist for a considerable number of years, I am all too aware of instances where riders, irrespective of their level of experience find themselves involved in serious crashes.”
He continued “the fact is that the majority of these crashes are avoidable and all too often involve basic errors of judgement with things as simple as road positioning, defensive riding, hazard awareness and excess speed. The aim of BikeSafe is simply
to reduce the unacceptably high rate of powered two-wheeler casualties on the roads of the UK.”
This initiative is just one element of the RAF’s overall road safety strategy. Presently the RAF is engaged with ‘The Honest Truth’ road safety partnership, a new initiative aimed at addressing the main dangers affecting the whole force. This, together with the monthly road safety programme undertaken by stations, as well as the Rose Bowl road safety award which was recently won by RAF Benson, demonstrates the huge importance the RAF places on the safety of its personnel.
The Met Police BikeSafe Team are tasked with providing information rather than a qualification, which is why this was an awareness event and not a training scheme. The goal is to provide an enjoyable and informative day for the riders who will hopefully go on to participate in further advanced training with either the Institute of Advanced Motoring or The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
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in pictures rAf photographic Competition 2015
‘Synchro’ ‘Heat’
‘Ascension Turnaround’
’Unveiling’ ‘Future Force’
‘Horsing around’
‘Stablemates’
’Low Rider’
‘Generations’
Synchro Winner Judges’ Choice RAF Image of the YearPeople’s Choice 2nd Place Heat Judges’ Choice Highly CommendedPeople’s Choice 3rd Place Generations Winning Portfolio
Ascension turnaroundWinning Portfolio
Low riderWinning Portfolio
photo Section Winning portfolio
Stablematesfuture forceLow riderGenerationsSynchroAscension turnaround
future force Winner Current RAF Equipment2nd Place Judges’ Choice unveilingHighly Commended Current RAF Equipment Horsing AroundRunner Up People’s Choice
This year’s RAF Photographic Competition once again brought success to the
photographers based at High Wycombe. Sergeant Ralph Merry and SAC Tim Laurence from Command Video shared the plaudits of the judges, and their combined efforts also brought them victory in the Photographic Section Portfolio category.
All the photos from the competition can be seen at www.raf.mod.uk/photo-of-the-year-2015.
Sgt Ralph MerrySnCo Command Video
SAC Tim LawrencerAf photographer of the Year
WW: 11
Station Commander’s Cup 2015BasketballThe 12 February 2015 saw the first of 10 CO’s Cup events that take place throughout the year. The event was Basketball and it proved to be a popular choice. A total of eight teams of more than five people attended. Each team played six fixtures and at the end of these games the final league table was concluded. A 3rd and 4th place playoff was played between the MPGS A and MPGS
CO’s Cup Events So FarB teams. In what was an exciting game of high standards, MPGS B managed to come out on top. To decide 1st and 2nd place, ISW battled it out with A6. In another entertaining fixture A6 managed to fend off a brave ISW effort to win the first CO’s Cup event of the year.
Racket SportsThe second CO’s Cup event of the year was Racket Sports and
was held on 26 March in the newly named Southdown Sports Hall. The Racket sports that teams would be participating in were Doubles Badminton, Doubles Padder Tennis, Singles Padder Tennis and Ping Pong. Another well attended event saw a total of eight teams participating to become top dogs at Racket Sports. The PEd Flight accumulated all the points each team scored across the disciplines
and created an overall Racket Sports Table. Coming out on top were A6 with 66 points closely followed by Admin on 62. As agreed before the event there would be a 1st and 2nd place playoff in the final match of the event. In a closely fought match, A6 won Doubles Badminton and Doubles Padder Tennis while Admin took the spoils in Singles Padder Tennis and Ping Pong. This meant the overall winner would be decided on point’s difference. A6 managed to justify their position at the top of the table with a 5 points difference, And thus winning a 2nd CO’s Cup event in a row.
TriathlonThe third CO’s Cup event of 2015 was Triathlon and took place on 30 April in the Southdown Sports Hall and sport pitches. The triathlon consisted of a 1.5km row, a 7km cycle and then a 2.4km run. Each team consisted of five people and members set off in 15 minute intervals to complete the Triathlon. Each team member had their time recorded and this contributed to the overall time of their team. This gruelling event was undertaken by no less than seven teams which was pleasing given the arduous nature of the CO’s Cup Triathlon.
With consistent performances from each member of A6 they managed to win a third event in a row by a clear nine mins from the RAF Police. Awards were also given to Best Individual Female and Best Individual Male, which were won by Flt Lt Jo Owen with a time of 30:39 and Callum Thomas who came in at 26.50.
Tag RugbyBad weather forced the PEd Flight to postpone the original date for CO’s Cup Tag Rugby however participants were met with glorious sunshine on Thursday 21 May. Two pitches were marked out on the sports fields and teams were made up of five people. Each team played each other twice in six-minute games. Standard Tag Rugby rules applied and despite a few infringements on the ‘No Contact’ rule, everyone managed to come through the event unscathed.
The event proved to be extremely competitive with four of the six teams achieving 20 points or more with the winners coming out on top with 27 points. For the first time this year A6 didn’t run out as winners, coming a disappointing 4th. Only one point separated 1st and 2nd and despite a brave effort by 1Gp they were pipped to 1st place by the Regiment who form part of Admin Wing.
VolleyballThursday 11 June saw the PEd Flight bring CO’s Cup Volleyball
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to 1 Site Helipad for the second year in a row. The glorious weather that accompanied us throughout the day perhaps contributed to the great turn out. The competition consisted of nine teams of at least five people and the MPGS could have potentially had four teams turn out there was that many of them!
Basic Volleyball rules applied and each team would play each other once in a four minute fixture. Red hot favourites prior to the event, MPGS were always going to be in contention but it was a question of which one of their two teams could take the title. MPGS A managed to secure top spot from MPGS B by four points with 1 Gp putting in another excellent show and securing 3rd spot.
Unfortunately for A6 they couldn’t participate in Volleyball and thus have seen their once commanding lead at the top of the table whittled down to just six points ahead of Admin Wg/Regt.
Eton DorneyFor July’s CO’s Cup the PEd Flight decided to do something a little bit different and organised a trip to Eton Dorney Lake. This was the home for all the Rowing events that took place during the London 2012 Olympics and is a truly awesome venue. The events that would take place would be Raft building and then subsequent racing along with Bell Boat Racing.
After being given the briefest of briefs each team were given 45 minutes to build a raft. The rafts were constructed with planks of wood, drums and various lengths of rope. After the rafts had been built the teams competed in Bell Boat Racing. This involved six people rowing and a helmsman to steer the boat.
After three heats of Bell Boat racing it was time to race the Rafts that each team had built earlier. The race involved running to a jetty with your raft, boarding it, rowing out to a marker, turning it around, rowing
Section Basketball Racket sports
Triathlon Tag rugby
Volleyball Eton dorney
Biathlon Football Dodgeball Xmas quiz
Joker played
Overall score
1 Gp 0 14 18 18 20 0 70
22 Trg 14 0 0 0 16 0 30
A6 22 22 40 16 0 20 yes 120
Admin/Regt
6 38 14 20 16 0 yes 94
Health 12 0 12 14 8 0 46
ISW 18 12 14 16 12 20 92
Manning 10 8 0 0 16 0 34
RAFP/MPGS
16 16 20 12 20 18 yes 102
Carillion Amey
0 0 8 0 0 0 8
back, getting the raft (or what’s left of it) out of the water and dismantling it entirely. The first team to do all of this would win. The RAFP managed to exit the water first, followed by A6, ISW, the ATC teams and bringing up the rear in their Raft of sorts were the PEd Flight. However, the race wasn’t over as each team had to now dismantle their rafts. ISW managed to get this done quickest followed by the RAFP, the PEd Flight and then A6.
The final standings after both water activities had ISW coming out on top closely followed by A6 and then the RAFP. Following the water activities everyone enjoyed a BBQ on the balcony overlooking Eton Dorney Lake. A truly fantastic end to a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.
Remaining CO’s Cup Events10 Sep - Biathlon 08 Oct – Indoor Football 12 Nov - Dodgeball 10 Dec - Xmas Quiz
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Supporting the United States Visiting ForcesThe first in a regular series of articles that will hopefully give a flavour of what may be happening at those locations where we host our American Colleagues.
By Sqn Ldr Jerry Neild
F riday 18th September saw the United States Air Force celebrating its
68th birthday with an Air Force Ball hosted at RAF Lakenheath for the 48th Fighter Wing, the 100th Air Refueling (sic) Wing and associated units in East Anglia. Open to all ranks with ticket prices in bands reflecting ability to pay, the format had the potential to be a little confusing for those more used to ‘Balls’ held in the Officers’ or the Wos’ and Sgts’ Mess.
A formal event, possibly more akin to a Cocktail Party
with some dancing, it attracted nearly 1000 personnel including senior RAF Officers such as Gp Capt Phil Lester (Group Captain United States Visiting Forces), Gp Capt Richard Davies (Stn Cdr RAF Marham) and Gp Capt Jez Attridge (Stn Cdr RAF Coningsby), who arrived in transport befitting an occasion also recognizing the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain – a Spitfire from the BBMF. RAF Honington was also ably represented by Wg Cdr Greg Burchill.
The Event was held in Hangar 7 which had been spruced up for the occasion and there, juxtapositioned between a pair of F-15Es, an F-15C and an HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter was the undoubted Queen of the Ball, TE311 a Supermarine Spitfire LFXVI. The queue to have your photograph taken with her, as a backdrop, would be in place for over 4 hours.
Airman Elijah Baker with Gp Capt Lester
Burning the Piano
After just a few formalities, to include National Anthems and recognition of distinguished guests, those attending set to with gusto to have a good time. Clear evidence of this was the flash mob that formed to encourage the reluctant onto the dance floor.
Otherwise, keen to be seen to embrace tradition, the evening included the burning of a piano (sans pianist!) and the cutting of an ornately decorated birthday cake by the most senior and most junior ranked individual present. With his RAF Regiment background, Gp Capt Lester demonstrated that his sword drill was still fresh - though any barked orders were lost in the background hubbub of conversation. At his side was Airman Elijah Baker of the 48th Force Support Sqn.
A different Ball to those that many of us are accustomed to, it nevertheless provided an unparalleled social opportunity for Air Force and other Services to gather together and cement relationships at all levels. Vive la difference!
from a Corner of a foreign fieldthat is forever england…
Oscar Wilde’s much loved and brilliantly witty masterpiece The Importance of Being Earnest is coming to Wycombe Swan this October.
Rosalind Ayres, Nigel Havers, Martin Jarvis, Christine Kavanagh and Siân Phillips will be reprising their West End performances, and are joined by Nigel Anthony, Carmen du Sautoy and David Shaw-Parker, performing as The Bunbury Company of Players.
Nigel Havers has said: “This production is very close to my heart and we had a ball doing it in the West End last summer. I’m thrilled we get to do it all again and hope audiences in High Wycombe will laugh and enjoy watching our twist on Oscar’s brilliant play as much as we enjoy performing it.”
This new production is directed by Lucy Bailey,
designed by William Dudley with added material written by Simon Brett, lighting design by Oliver Fenwick, and composition and sound design by Tom Mills. The Importance of Being Earnest is known to elegantly lampoon the hypocrisies of a Victorian society and opens as two bachelors, the dependable John Worthing, J.P. and upper class playboy Algernon Moncrieff, feel compelled to create different identities in order to pursue two eligible ladies Cecily Cardew and Gwendolen Fairfax. The hilarious misadventures which result from their subterfuge; their brushes with the redoubtable Lady Bracknell and the uptight Miss Prism result in a plot that twists and fizzles with some of the finest dialogue to be found in theatre.
Book your tickets to see this classic tale of farce today!
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A trip down memory lane…
emma reed (rAfA)
When Royal Air Forces Association volunteer Ena Day attended the
charity’s annual conference she couldn’t have known it would result in an invitation from the Chief of the Air Staff to visit today’s equivalent of her old WAAF job.
Attending the Eastbourne conference to collect her certificate for being highly commended as a volunteer of the year, Ena met Sir Andrew Pulford, Chief of the Air Staff. On being asked about her RAF service, she talked of her time as a Direction Finder at RAF Hawkinge during
WWII. Sir Andrew invited Ena to see how her job compares to modern day direction finding, and invited her to visit HQ Air Command at RAF High Wycombe.
The day started with a visit to Sir Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris’s office. Ena was very interested in the maps showing RAF locations, targets and routes, noting similarities to the maps she used while helping Allied pilots navigate their way home when lost over France or the Channel. She was particularly pleased to see RAF Hawkinge, near Folkestone, clearly shown. She also took the opportunity to see how modern day Direction Finders (Aerospace Battle Managers or ABMs) work at High Wycombe.
After lunch with the Station Commander and a group of ABMs, Gp Capt Lester was delighted to present Ena with a framed photo before thanking her for all her efforts.
The tour then moved to the bunker at RAF Uxbridge, where Ena relived her old job with a headset on listening for the often faint calls of returning pilots. After taking a bearing from their signals and some quick calculations, she was able to pinpoint their locations and guide them to the nearest airfield.
The day brought back many memories for Ena, some good, some not so good. Although she undoubtedly helped many find their way back to safety, it was tough for her to reimagine the conversations she had with pilots who sadly never made it home.
Ena started helping the RAF family in WWII and has done so ever since. From her many years as a Welfare Officer for her local Branch to her fundraising efforts today, she is one of thousands of volunteers dedicated to helping the charity that supports the RAF family.
On 18th June the Headquarters of Joint GBAD embarked on their FD day to Oxford to take in the delights of ‘punting’. Having utilised google on behalf of the non-commissioned ranks to discover what punting actually was, we set off to the Cherwell boathouse with spirits high.
Upon arrival, we divided into 3 separate punts, 2 of which immediately
disappeared into the distance. The one that Maj McDermott, Master Gunner WO1 Coleman and I were in proceeded to pirouette in a series of 360 degree turns, expertly piloted by Flt Lt Poulton. A swift change saw Maj McDermott take over steering duties and we quickly caught up with the other punts.
The first real dilemma facing the 3 punts was a fork in the river. Capt Bulmer and his team containing resident American for the day Maj Draper, chose to go right whilst the remainder of the flotilla turned left. Little were we to know at the time, but this didn’t turn out to be the wisest move.
A lack of a map of the rivers twists and turns proved extremely troublesome and our punt, alongside the punt spearheaded by Commander Jt GBAD Col Pond, were quickly faced with a dead-end. The Commander scaled the wall alongside the river to embark on a recce and attempt to find a potential route out. It later transpired his recce consisted of a walk back to the boathouse via the nearest pub for liquid refreshment. Both
punts were faced with no option but to perform a u-turn and double back.
Our punt then became beached in the ever shallower waters. However as soon as Master Gunner WO1 Coleman attempted to climb the grass verge and removed himself from the punt, we immediately became mobile again. Unfortunately the same couldn’t be said for him as he lost his footing and his freshly polished brogues became submerged in the muddy bank. Amid uncontrollable laughter from everyone else, he freed himself and was able to join us again further along the river.
I must admit there was something mildly satisfying about kicking back, relaxing and watching my 2nd RO Maj McDermott becoming increasingly frustrated and tired as he steered our punt, with minimal effort from everyone else. On our sister punt, WO2s Stevenson-Ball and Blood also took delight in seeing Maj Brett toil during his turn at the helm. On closer inspection he appeared to have more wet patches on his clothing than dry ones due to the unholy amount of sweat he was generating.
The return leg to the boathouse proved rather less eventful and both punts arrived back in unison, an hour late for our lunch appointment and to howls of derision from the more successful punt of Majors Draper, Phillips, Tyler and Capt Bulmer who were already on pint 3. If only we had turned right!! Col Pond also displayed a degree of smugness after ‘abandoning ship’. He too was savouring a ‘well earned’ drink.
Lunch was served, and after 3 fantastic courses we took a long walk into Oxford. As the day progressed and the people-watching intensified
WO2 Blood set about putting the world to rights with Maj Tyler. As comments flowed back and forth, perhaps he may have been better served attending Question Time which was being filmed in High Wycombe at the same time.
Maj McDermott and Master Gunner WO1 Coleman set off on the mammoth walk back to collect the minibus as there was no danger of the rest of the party moving an inch from the table until it arrived from the pub to collect us. As the sole representative of the RAF remaining in the evening, I was left in no doubt as to my standing within the HQ as I returned from the toilet to discover the minibus pulling away into the distance. A quick sprint and jump on to the bus satisfied my PT for the day and we departed back to High Wycombe.
A fantastic day out. Thanks must go to Maj McDermott for not only steering our punt for nigh on 3 hours but primarily for organising the days activities and providing us with a worthwhile team building exercise. Master Gunner WO1 Coleman should also be commended for volunteering to remain sober to drive a coach load of ‘cheerful’ passengers back and forth around Buckinghamshire.
Roll on Go Karting next month for the next instalment of FD for HQ Jt GBAD.
underground!
Sgt A HindsHQ Jt GbAd
Padre’s PauseI guess that the summer months
have brought much change for us all in some form or
another. It might be work based or relating to home location, family circumstances, health or just being in a different routine with time out for holidays and relaxation.
Change, especially sudden unexpected change, often brings with it a range of emotions and feelings that can cause unhelpful stress, and when not addressed have implications for our relationships, health and general wellbeing. Part of the solution must be to become more self-aware of the things that are causing us to feel the way we do. So in good military style, we have a pneumonic to help us – AWARE:
A Accept the situation and try not to bury your head in the sand
W Watch and measure the effects of stress, asking yourself some basic questions: How well am I sleeping? Has my appetite changed for the worse? Am I exercising enough?
A Act with it and use it to motivate you into action, tackling one issue at a time
R Repeat the first 3 stagesE Try to expect the best and not
the worst
Simple though this might be, it is the start of a process of managing unhelpful stress rather than it controlling you. If this area of stress awareness interests you or might be useful for someone you know, the Chaplaincy is leading a series of workshops during the autumn on Managing Stress. To put your name down for one of them, please contact WO Twyning in PSF on 6736.
Finally but no less significant, this autumn marks the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain, as well as the annual Remembrance events associated with the losses from armed conflict down the years. Commemorate them well and value these long held traditions which keep us ever thankful for the sacrifice made by so many others.
This autumn be AWARE and stay well.
Padre Mike
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Op See The Sun
I must admit there was something mildly satisfying about kicking back, relaxing
and watching my 2nd RO Maj McDermott becoming
increasingly frustrated and tired as he steered our punt, with minimal
effort from everyone else
”
“
WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015 WW: 19
Annual Formal Visit 2015 by flt Lt Andy keeley
AOC 38 Group, AVM Tim Bishop, enjoyed a day of variety at his Annual Formal
Visit 2015 on the 5th of August.The Station Commander
welcomed AOC 38 and briefed him not only on the Station and current issues but also its role alongside United States Visiting Forces and RAF Diaspora.
The visit then moved to Supply and MT where Serco Site Manager John McIntyre and Serco staff discussed their processes and challenges, before transferring to the Oakeshott Centre to meet with Community Support staff. AVM Bishop was then impressed to see the finished Station Gymnasium which had featured in last year’s AFV as an empty shell.
Lunch was an opportunity to engage with a variety of Station personnel of all ranks and grades, with ESS providing a finger buffet to allow the AOC some refreshment whilst continuing to discuss an assortment of pressing matters.
After lunch the visit moved to 1 Site, where ISW hosted, followed by the final visit of the day to the Main Guardroom and Armoury. AVM Bishop finished off a full and varied visit by acting as Presenting Officer at an Honours and Awards Ceremony in the Officers’ Mess, including the presentation of a medal 33 years after its award (full details on next page).
Visiting the Main Guardroom
OC PMS talks Community Support
AOC 38 Gp discusses contracts with Serco Site Mgr
Specialist in Personal Learning
C ongratulations to Mrs Alison Low who is one of only two Personal
Learning Advisors to graduate from Staffordshire University with a Diploma (with merit) in Supporting Personal Learning.
Staffordshire University has a long standing partnership with the Royal Air Force, and this is an example of a bespoke course specially designed for RAF Personal Learning Advisors.
Alison worked intensively using distance learning for a year to achieve her Diploma, but there are a variety of courses available that are flexible to fit around the working commitments of Servicepeople and Civil Servants. For more information speak with Alison in the Training Centre on 3 Site or on ext 7891.
WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015 WW: 21WW: 20
Freedom, Honours and AwardsBy Flt Lt Andy Keeley
O ver 3 ceremonies in June, July and August service and civilian personnel
from RAF High Wycombe celebrated the Freedom of High Wycombe, and received a variety of honours and awards in recognition of their endeavours with tours, deployments and significant career achievements.
5 Aug 15Following the Annual Formal Visit, AVM Bishop acted as Presenting Officer for an Honours and Awards Ceremony recognising 5 Commendations, 2 Royal Warrants, a Long Service Good Conduct Medal and a long overdue South Atlantic Medal.
33 years later, but better late than neverThe South Atlantic Medal was originally awarded to personnel who completed 30 days service in the region of the Falkland Islands during the conflict period in 1982 but only for those who served there before the 12th of July. Recently a review concluded that the qualifying end date should extend to the 21st of October as “those who served beyond that date experienced both risk and rigour”. AVM Bishop took great pleasure in awarding the South Atlantic Medal to Mr Dave Lunnon.
Mr Dave Lunnon joined the Royal Air Force in 1962.
After completing initial training at Bridgenorth, he was posted to the Air Sea Rescue School at Mountbatten, followed by postings to RAF Tobruk in Libya, Bridlington, RAF Khormaksar in Yemen, and Holyhead.
In 1972 he transferred from the Air Sea Rescue Branch to the Admin Branch. Postings followed to Stanmore Park, Cranwell, Halton, 111 Squadron Leuchars, Bracknell, Wildenrath, Wyton, High Wycombe, Laarbruch and Henlow. In 1999 after almost 38 years Mr Lunnon left the service and now works as a Civil Servant in the 3 Site Guardroom at RAF High Wycombe.
In 1982 Mr Lunnon was selected to be part of an Advance Party to establish a permanent base in the Falklands – RAF Stanley. Travelling in the Rangatira troop ship from Ascension Islands, he arrived on the Falkland Islands in mid-July.
The deployment proved to be a unique and demanding experience, and the then Sergeant Lunnon had a multitude of taskings and responsibilities. One memorable day was the arrival of a tropical shower machine, designed for deployments such as Malaya,
and given to Sergeant Lunnon to install and maintain in the bitter South Atlantic winter.
After receiving the unit from an underslung Chinook, Sergeant
Church Service 25 Jun 15
Dave Lunnon with wife Christine
Freedom Parade 25 Jun 15
Freedom of High WycombeOn the 25th of June the Mayor of High Wycombe, Cllr Mohammed Hanif, and local dignitaries visited 3 Site to take part in the ceremony of Parading the Scroll, signifying the Freedom of High Wycombe to the Station. The
parade, with Fg Off Kyle Evans holding the Scroll, made the short march from the WOs’ and SNCOs’ Mess to the Station Church, where a formal ceremony took place. The visiting party then relocated to the Officers’ Mess for an Honours and Awards Ceremony.
Mayor of MarlowOn the afternoon of the 16th of July the Mayor of Marlow, Cllr Bob Johnson, visited the
Lunnon got his team to building it, and found four ‘volunteers’ to stand in the cold and test their finished work.
Although at first freezing cold, luckily for the volunteers it soon warmed up, and became a vital part of the camp not just for cleanliness but also morale.
Mr Lunnon’s effect on the Operation can be summised by an excerpt from a letter dated the 4th of October 1982, written by Wing Commander Ray Hart:
“During the last 3 months, it has been my privilege to have Sergeant Lunnon serving on my Wing at RAF Stanley. When we arrived the conditions were atrocious. The airfield was covered in mud, no hard accommodation was available, and all in the height of the South Atlantic winter.
Sergeant Lunnon built bridges, cleared drains, painted buildings, shifted the mess of a defeated army, built and ran a bath unit, and never once lost his sense of humour. He led from the front and set an example to the whole station, and his contribution to the building of RAF Stanley has been greater than I could have expected from any one man.”
Station to learn more about the historical and current operations of RAF High Wycombe. This was followed by a ceremony
to present 7 commendations, 3 Royal Warrants and an Operational Service Medal
Awards recipients 25 Jun 15
Awards recipients 5 Aug 15
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RAF Policewomen helped to make history by joining colleagues from around
the world at the International Association of Women Police Conference which was held in Cardiff at the end of August.
The International Association of Women Police (IAWP) is celebrating a very special year as 2015 marks its centenary and this training conference was designed to bring hundreds of members from 77 countries together. A milestone year for women in policing, 2015 also marks the 100th anniversary of the first women joining the British Police.
Six RAF Policewomen were in attendance at the Conference which is the biggest event in the IAWP’s calendar. It not only recognises the contribution that women make towards policing, it affords an opportunity to hear from global police leaders on a wide variety of topics, promotes the sharing of best practice and discussion of cross-cutting, local and international issues amongst delegates. It is all geared towards professional development.
The Conference opened with a VIP ceremony which saw The Provost Marshal (RAF), Group Captain Kevin Bailey in attendance,
he said: “It was an inspiring occasion and one that provided a good opportunity to engage with the civilian Police, particularly at Chief Constable level.”
The highlight of the opening ceremony saw the centre of Cardiff graced by the presence of over 600 female police officers adorned in their uniforms from around the world as they paraded through the Welsh capital. The ‘Parade of Nations’ commenced under grey skies, yet the inclement weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of the participants as they wound their way through the City Centre to the delight of the crowds that lined their route. An awards lunch followed recognising outstanding efforts.
Flight Lieutenant Chrissy Siczowa, Operations Officer, No 4 Protection Wing, at RAF Brize Norton attended the Conference for the first time. She was heading up the exhibition stand for the
RAF Police that promotes life in the RAF and used to aid the recruitment of reservists, she said: “It was an absolute honour to represent the RAF Police at this year’s IAWP Conference. Having never attended the Conference previously, it was my first experience of the Association and I was eager to showcase the RAF Police and learn from other organisations”.
Accompanying Flight Lieutenant Siczowa for this Cardiff deployment were Corporal Rhi James from RAF High Wycombe, Flight Sergeant Angie Young from RAF Henlow, Corporal Adele Logan from RAF Halton and Acting Corporals Jess Feeley and Alycia Wood, both stationed at RAF Honington.
Flight Lieutenant Siczowa concluded: “It was a fantastic opportunity for myself and the team to demonstrate the high calibre of female police personnel that currently exist within the RAF.”
Napfest 2015by flt Lt Andy keeley
On the 6th of June the Station joined the local community with the
annual Napfest, a fete with a variety of fun, food and fancy dress! The theme this year was American Western and had some serious competitors in the various age groups. The Station Commander was joined by Mr Ron Carter in judging the best dressed, with a standout effort (and moustache) being worn by local Chloe Page, resulting in her receiving the award for Best in Show. RAF High Wycombe provided a variety of entertainment for the public; the Station Gym gave instruction and tips to the public on free weights, multigym and spinning bikes, as well as running regular circuits for anyone to join in with. The RAF Regiment brought in the big guns (literally!) as well as protective equipment for members of the public to experience. Always a
popular stall, they had to strictly limit the number of visitors at a time to ensure the area didn’t become too busy. Informative entertainment was also provided by the Station’s Fire and Police Sections with local kids enjoying the sirens of the police car and fire truck. Volunteers from the Southern Counties Ambulance Service ran an interactive display of various life saving techniques with community members invited to join in. All in all a fantastic effort from Station personnel to engage with and be part of the local community. The Station Commander was very impressed with the endeavours of those who took part, and is confident that RAF High Wycombe can take another step up at Napfest 2016. If you have an idea for a stall or event for next year’s fete, please contact the Media Comms Officer, Flt Lt Andy Keeley, at [email protected].
Stn emergency services give some colour and noise to the day Stn Cdr awards Best Dressed 0-11 yrs old
SCAS volunteers from Station
PEd Flt test some strength
Future Gunners
Circuits on the Crick
Chloe Page - Best in Show
of policewomen100 years
WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015WW: 26
rAf Lone PiperO ne of the highest
accolades in the bagpiping world is to be
appointed the Lone Piper at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This year that honour was given to Cpl Stuart Hunter, RAF Police, RAF High Wycombe. Cpl Hunter is the first ever serving RAF Lone Piper to be broadcast on worldwide television.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with the spectacular backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, is attended by 250,000 people each year and attracts a worldwide television audience of up to a staggering 1.2 billion people.
WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015 WW: 27
The event starts with the Lone Piper reciting a Gaelic Toast to the 8,800 strong crowd, followed by consuming a ceremonial Quaich of whiskey with the Saluting Officer.
Cpl Hunter also played within the Massed Pipes and Drums. The RAF Pipes and Drums, led by Pipe Major Ian Hughes, consists of serving personnel and civilian volunteers from regional RAF Pipes and Drums at RAF Lossiemouth, RAF Central Scotland, RAF Waddington and RAF Halton. The RAF Pipes and Drums perform at various Tattoos and High Profile Events in the UK and worldwide throughout the year.
Visit to ‘kids in sport’ charity
On Mon 22 Jun 15, three members of the Station Charities Committee visited
one of RAF High Wycombe’s four nominated charities for this year, Kids In Sport, at the Clare Charity Building, Princes Risborough.
The Charity was set up in 2008 by Mr Roger Budd after his ‘sports-mad’ son, Julian, died suddenly at the early age of 33 as a result of a rare condition called epiglottitis.
During his short life he was a wholehearted sports enthusiast who took great joy in playing and supporting a wide range of team and personal sports. In these endours he was well known for spreading his enthusiasm and enjoyment of sport to all he encountered. As well as his parents he leaves behind a wife and daughter.
Julian also loved to help children get involved and enjoy sports, so this is the cause the Charity has now undertaken in setting up the Julian Budd Kids in Sport Trust Ltd.
Sadly many children today simply do not get the chance to participate in a sporting activity due to financial hardship and lack of facilities. The Trust will look to
support both able and disabled youngsters between the ages of five to sixteen years in this objective. The areas of funding will be in the provision of sports equipment, sport kit, coaching, upgrading or the provision of facilities, transportation for disabled children to a sporting activity and supervision where required.
The Charity currently focuses its efforts within the local region but hopefully as the fund grows it wants to spread this aid throughout the UK.
Since its inauguration in 2008, the Kids In Sport Trust has raised and donated over £250,000 in grants to benefit 79 local deserving charities.
This was a fantastic visit and a superb insight into this very worthwhile Charity. If anybody would like more information regarding the Kids In Sport Charity or would like to become a member of the Station Charities Committee please contact Flt Lt Franki Hill on x7397
Kids In Sport Forthcoming EventsThe 8th Annual ‘Kids In Sport’ Golf Day – 15 Sept 15
On Saturday 24 Oct 15, the Station Charities Committee will be hosting an event in
aid of Chiltern Music Therapy, one of the four designated charities supported by RAF High Wycombe.
Chiltern Music Therapy is an award-winning not-for-profit organisation that provides a music therapy service to people of all ages. They offer expertise in the fields of learning disabilities, mental health, brain injury, dementia and Alzheimer’s, palliative care, neonatal and paediatrics.
Their Music Therapists are registered with the Health & Care Professions Council and the British Association for Music Therapy, and are dedicated to providing measurable
and tangible outcomes for all client groups. At the heart of their work is their aim to provide an inclusive service that is accessible to all.
The event will include an historical tour of 1 site (including the Bomber Harris Room) followed by musical entertainment and dinner in the WO & SNCOs Mess. In the evening, there will be a music quiz in the Mess bar, which will also be open to all Mess members and their families (minimum age 16yrs).
This is a great opportunity to support a worthwhile cause, so please come along to the Mess and get involved. The quiz starts at 2030hrs, but the bar will be open beforehand.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Charity Event in aid of Chiltern Music Therapy
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On the 12th of August 50 whole force personnel from Station and Air Command
had the privilege of visiting the Tower of London to witness the Ceremony of the Keys, the traditional locking up of the Tower of London that has taken place on each and every night, without fail, for at least 700 years.
After observing some expert driving from the Serco bus driver (most would have struggled to get their car through the traffic), the tour began with Yeoman Warder Shaun Huggins providing an informative and entertaining tour, including the mock-beheading of Plt Off Cameron Vear!
Walking along Water Lane, named for formerly being the natural course of the River Thames before being pushed back, the tour stopped at Traitors’ Gate. Put in place to provide a water entrance to the Tower, prisoners would have floated past pikes displaying the heads of executed prisoners before entering through the Gate. Famously Queen Anne Boleyn and Sir Thomas More entered the Tower this way.
As daylight dwindled the tour moved to the Inner Ward, with Yeoman Warder Huggins telling stories of the White Tower and Waterloo Block, followed by a visit to the simple but beautiful Chapel Royal. When the group came back outside it was dark, and time to observe the Ceremony of the Keys.
To finish the evening the group were very privileged to be invited into the Yeoman Warders Club which provided facility for lubrication as well as an excellent buffet.
There was no shortage of appreciation from the group: Ms Maria Stone said “Thank you very much for organising the visit to the Tower of London and the Ceremony of the Keys event. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening; it was a privilege to observe this historic ceremony, in such an atmospheric location.” The event was organised by the Professional Development Flight and if you would like to receive information on organising events like this contact FS Shaun Turner on ext 6723.
Ceremony of the KeysThe importance of securing this fortress for the night is still very
relevant because, although the Monarch no longer resides at this royal palace, the Crown Jewels and many other valuables still do! In this ceremony the gates of the Tower of London are secured each night by the Chief Yeoman Warder escorted by an armed guard of four men.
Considering the ceremony takes place in the centre of London the lead up to the ceremony was very peaceful, only broken by marching steps and formal orders. After locking the gates, the Chief Yeoman Warder is challenged by a sentry bringing his rifle into the on-guard position. He allows him to pass after recognising the Chief Warder as the bearer of Queen Elizabeth’s keys by saying ‘Pass, Queen Elizabeth’s keys, and all’s well’.
The Chief Yeoman Warder and his escort are then met by a ceremonial guard on the Broad
Steps near the White Tower, who presents arms. The Chief Warder concludes the ceremony by raising his Tudor bonnet and proclaiming ‘God preserve Queen Elizabeth’, to which all present replied ‘Amen’.
Yeoman WardersThe Tower of London is one of the most visited destinations in the entire world, and no visit to the Tower would be complete without seeing a Yeoman Warder of Her Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress the Tower of London, Member of the Sovereign’s Body Guard of the Yeoman Guard Extraordinary… or as they are more commonly known; Beefeaters!
The Beefeaters are often confused with ‘Yeomen of the Guard’, a distinctly different corps of Royal Bodyguards. Beefeaters at the Tower of London are the ceremonial guardians, and historically they would have been responsible for the safeguarding of the Crown Jewels as well as looking after prisoners kept at the Tower.
Becoming a Yeoman Warder is not easy; at present there are 37 Yeomen Warders at the Tower of London. A candidate must have at least 22 years of service in the Armed Forces. In addition to length of service, all Yeomen Warders must also have been awarded the ‘Long Service and Good Conduct’ medal during their time in the armed forces.
By Flt Lt Andy Keeley
Ceremony of the keys
Changing of the SWOBy Flt Lt Andy Keeley
The role of Station Warrant Officer has been passed on by WO Phill Smith, who
departs sunny High Wycombe to work as WO C4I in the temperate climes of Akrotiri.
WO Steve Marshall steps in as the new SWO, making the long journey from RAF Lossiemouth. He brings with him a wealth of experience and a shared annoyance (with WO Smith) of non-Service bags worn with Service uniform. Not long after taking the reins the SWO educated a Serviceman on the reasons why a shoulder slung man-bag was not an appropriate general service accessory!
WO Smith requested a modest, quiet departure, which his team duly ignored and provided a surprise farewell party in the WOs’ and SNCOs’ Mess. They day was made even more colourful when the SWO agreed to wear one of his leaving gifts – a service rucksack emblazened with every badge and add-on available. With a little persuasion WO Smith gritted his teeth, put on the bag, and waved goodbye to RAF High Wycombe.
WO Marshall
WO Smith departs
Cadets get taller every year!
WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015 WYCOMBE WORLD AUTUMN 2015 WW:WW: 3130
Vikings VictoriousfS tim peggs, manager danesfield Vikings fC
The Danesfield Vikings FC recently held an end of term awards ceremony to mark
the end of a successful training schedule. Taking place on a beautiful and sunny spring day on the Danesfield School playing fields, located on the SFA patch at Medmenham, the presentation was the climax of an enjoyable and challenging 10-week course aimed at introducing young children to football.
The 10-week modular training programme focused on a different set of skills each week with training sessions starting with a kit inspection and warm-up, followed by a game called “Robots”; essentially a game where the children took great joy in trying to kick a football as hard as they could at the coaches. This was followed by a set of structured training exercises - passing, heading, shooting, dribbling etc and concluded with a 20 minute match. The first half of the match was limited to 2-touch football, designed
at encouraging the more able footballers to play as a team and teaching the children that they would not have much time to dwell on the ball in a competitive match for fear of losing the ball in a tackle. At the end of the session the coaches reflected on the training objectives with the children and presented a player of the week trophy, which the winner was allowed to take home with them for a week and show off to friends and family.
Thanks to a generous donation from the RAF High Wycombe Local Initiative Grant and a glut of willing and enthusiastic volunteers, the
venture has been a huge success. In addition, the support of the Medmenham residents has been nothing short of fantastic. So much so that as word of mouth spread, we had to double our initial coaching staff of WO Lee Twyning and FS Tim Peggs by recruiting FS Gary Longley and Sgt Stu Lamont in order to support the uptake in numbers. We now have 23 children registered between the ages of 4 and 8 (both boys and girls) and are able to split the training session into two areas to cater for the younger and older children separately, tailoring the exercises accordingly.
Watching the children’s confidence and abilities grow week by week has been remarkable and extremely satisfying, with some of them now incorporating step-overs, rainbow-flicks and Cruyff turns into their game. There were always lots of smiles gracing the pitch and indeed from the swelling crowd of proud parents on the touchline, even when the children were faced with the dreaded “shed-run” for not passing the kit inspection. At the end of the 10 week session we presented two major awards, Most Improved Player (chosen by the coaches) awarded to Will Higgins (aged 6) and the Most Valuable Player
(chosen by both the coaching staff and players) awarded to Harley Peggs (aged 7). Training sessions are held on Sundays between 1100-1200 hrs on the sports pitches at the Danesfield School with the next set of 10 week training sessions starting on 20 Sep 15, running through to 29 Nov 15 – why not come along and join in?
JET Cycle
F light Lieutenant Martin Smith, based at RAF High Wycombe, cycled solidly
for 12 hours, covering a distance of 128 miles on an exercise bike. The cycle challenge was carried out to help raise funds for the Jon Egging Trust, the charity inspired by former Red Arrow Jon Egging.
As daylight broke RAF High Wycombe’s Station Commander, Group Captain Phil Lester, blew the whistle at 5am to start the challenge, and Martin pushed on until 5pm, only stopping for short but urgent breaks.
Air Cadets from Jon Egging’s former Cadet Squadron were on hand to help with the event. Cadet Flight Sergeant Katie Patterson said “It is a great cause and a fantastic effort. We’re really
Flt Lt Martin Smith with Air Commodore Al Gillespie and Group Captain Phil Lester
proud to be able to lend a hand whilst on our summer camp”.
Martin commented “It was a gruelling challenge, particularly toward the end but the support from Station personnel and well-wishers has been fantastic. So many people stopped by to give me encouragement and it made the time fly by. The cadets did a great job as did the shift personnel from the Fire Section, who kept me topped up with water and helped re-inflate the legs of the faulty tent!! All in all, it was a challenging event that raised the profile of this great charity and helped to raise funds in the process”.
The money raised (currently just over £300) will be used to fund the Blue Skies Project – a
flagship youth engagement programme which helps young people overcome adversity and reach their full potential.
Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging tragically lost his life on the 20th August 2011 whilst completing
an air display at the Bournemouth Air Festival, and the Trust is run by Jon’s widow Dr Emma Egging. To support Martin’s efforts, please go to www.justgiving.com/mgs100 or to donate £5, text JETM88 to 70070.
RAF High WycombeWO & SNCO’s MessReception: 95221 ext 7879
proGrAmme of entertAinment Autumn / Winter 2015
Oktoberfest 08 oct 15
Families Happy Hour
06 nov 15
Christmas draw
04 dec 15
Mess staff Christmas Party
05 dec 15
Livers-in Christmas dinner
08 dec 15
Exchange drinks
16 dec 15
don’t forGet tHe enVeLope drAW
eVerY WedneSdAY eVeninG!
CHeCk our moSS Site or meSS
notiCeboArdS for furtHer
informAtion And AnnounCementS!
RAF Benevolent Fund Great British Sunday lunchby flt Lt Andy reeve
RAF High Wycombe gave host to its inaugural Great British Sunday Lunch
on the 13th of September, raising nearly £600 for the RAF Benevolent Fund and Nepalese Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
Such was the success of the Nepalese curries served up earlier in the year that the Gurkha community were invited to join forces with the Ben Fund to host the event.
Private Khem Limbu produced 2 delicious curries to choose from with a few extra chillies to sprinkle on if you like wanted a bit more spice! The dishes were served to perfection
and enjoyed by everyone in the September sunshine outside Smithy’s All Ranks Bar.
Corporal Laldhoj Gurung said ‘we are really pleased to be able to share the event with the Benevolent Fund, and to raise money and awareness of the continued earthquake relief efforts in Nepal’.
The children also enjoyed a lucky dip, and even had the chance to meet Ben the Elephant who made a special guest appearance. Hester Hamilton, aged 2½ said ‘the food was really yummy!’
Flight Lieutenant Andy Reeve, who runs the Ben Fund
effort on Stn, said ‘we are delighted to be able to share the event with the Gurkhas and to raise money for both worthy causes. I am really grateful for all the hard work that everyone has put in to make the event so enjoyable.’
You can find out more about the fantastic work being done by the Ben Fund by visiting www.rafbf.org. Information on the ongoing Nepalese disaster relief effort can be found at www.dec.org.uk. If you would like to get involved and help to organise the next event, contact OC PSF, Flt Lt Andy Reeve, at [email protected].
A gruelling 12-hour cycle challenge for the Jon Egging Trust
With over 60 high-achieving A Level and vocational diploma courses, Apprenticeships and traineeships to choose from, there are many opportunities for students to find their place at The Henley College. We welcome students from more than 100 schools across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire into our diverse and exciting College community. We guide students into choosing the route that is right for them and empower each individual to achieve the highest success possible.
We are proud to offer a broad and diverse choice of courses at Henley and there are many courses available that do not require the student to have previously studied the subject. These include Forensic Science, Business Studies, Psychology, Law and Economics. From September 2015 we are delighted to offer A Level Music Technology and BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Creative Media (Games Development). We also have many exciting extra-curricular activities available that enhance and enrich student life at Henley, as well as encourage and develop new skills and interests. These range from general interest courses like debating or public speaking, to elite sports teams in rugby union, basketball and rowing.
Supporting students to strive for excellence is something all the specialist staff are firmly committed to and incredibly passionate about. This summer, the College once again celebrated a rise
in A Level pass rate results to 99%, with high grades also rising a further 1% against a reported national drop. The College has also maintained its excellent record of BTEC results with three quarters of students achieving the highest grades.As well as a strong academic provision, our students benefit from supportive Personal Tutors and a caring, professional Student Services team who offer guidance and help with most aspects of College life. Our Upgrade team provide a wide range of specialist support for students with identified learning support needs or a disability, as well as those who just need a helping hand with revision, essay writing or organisation.
The Henley College is situated close to the centre of Henley-on-Thames, a beautiful riverside town with good transport links. Facilities are spread over two closely linked campuses and include a dedicated Library, Student Learning Centres and a new state-of-the-art Sports Hall. This September, the College is unveiling a new student refectory area at its Rotherfield campus. This exciting development will also provide additional study space and a new and improved canteen. Come and visit us to find out more.
Visit www.henleycol.ac.uk for further information about our wide range of courses and for details about upcoming Information Events and College Tours.
The Henley College The transition from school to employment or university is a vital time for young people as they start to specialise and realise their full potential. A sixth-form college like Henley provides a challenging, motivating and supportive bridge where students can reach their academic goals, try new experiences and meet lots of like-minded people.
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Main Road, Naphill, HP14 4QA Tel: 01494 562210 www.thewheelnaphill.com [email protected]
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In 1886 Miss Ann Lindo read Black Beauty and was inspired to provide a place where the sick and exhausted working horses of London could rest and recover from the long days spent hauling goods and passengers across the capital. In those early days the charity looked after the health of the horses and provided the working poor with a replacement horse while their exhausted animal took respite at the Home of Rest.
For nearly 130 years our Home of Rest for Horses has specialised in providing retirement and respite for working horses - from those delivery horses of the 1880’s to today’s hard working equine public servants in the Police and the Army. As the role of the working horse has changed in British society, so too has the type of resident receiving respite care or retirement at the Home of Rest.
We have always provided sanctuary to horses, ponies and donkeys who have suffered from cruelty or neglect and who are in desperate need of specialist treatment and care. Just under a third of today’s residents have come to us after being rescued. Most of the residents who retire to us from the Police and Army have long term health issues and cannot
be ridden, and they see out their twilight years with us after their dedicated public service.
Visitors are welcome at our Home of Rest for Horses in Speen, near Princes Risborough, from February 1st to November 30th every Thursday to Sunday (and Bank Holiday Mondays) from 2pm – 4pm. Entrance is £5 per vehicle, £3 for OAP’s/concessions - great value for a family day out.
As well as a chance to meet some of Britain’s most amazing horses, there is a museum which explains the changing role of Britain’s working horses from the 1880’s to the present day. There is also a special exhibition created from the research of renowned military historian Dr. David Kenyon that presents a unique insight into the varied roles of horses throughout WW1. We have made sure the information will appeal to all age groups, without any need for specialist horse knowledge.
Of course, with the Home of Rest being set on a 200 acre farm within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, many of our visitors simply visit to take the opportunity to relax in what is one of the most tranquil and
beautiful locations in the South Bucks area.
Whatever the weather brings, visitors can enjoy the beautiful Black Beauty Tea Room which offers a lovely selection of homemade cakes and refreshments. Sefton’s Barn is a stunning Grade II listed tithe barn which has been lovingly restored, but with modern facilities - and it is available for hire for your own special event.
There are lots of family friendly activities throughout the year and there is always something going on, from Easter Egg Hunts in early Spring through to the first visit of Father Christmas. There could even be the chance to help groom one of the horses. It’s easy to find out what’s happening by visiting our website or by signing up for our free monthly Enews.
Our horses, ponies and donkeys love meeting new friends, and the staff and volunteers will help you enjoy your visit. If you visit once we think you’ll come back to see us again. The Horse Trust is the world’s oldest horse charity, so come along and enjoy a great day out at a great British institution that is right on your doorstep.
The Horse Trust – the world’s oldest horse charity
