RAF News 18 Nov 2022 Edition 1548

Vets fly out for Falklands 40th

VETERANS AND relatives of 255 military personnel killed in the Falklands War returned to the islands on an RAF Voyager to mark the 40th anniversary of the conflict.

More than 130 people selected in a nationwide ballot boarded the Brize Norton-based aircraft for the MOD-funded flight to attend commemorations in the South Atlantic.

Pilot Flt Lt Joe Turner of 101 Squadron said: “It is a real privilege to play a part in transporting veterans and families to the Falkland Islands. We will always remember the courage and sacrifice they, and those who sadly did not return, showed in 1982.”

The visitors toured former battlefield sites and military cemeteries and attended Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday events in Stanley.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “I am delighted we have been able to facilitate the return of veterans and bereaved families for the first time in 40 years.

l See pp16-17

“This Remembrance we honour the efforts of all those involved in the conflict and remind ourselves of the sacrifices made by those who did not return but will never be forgotten.”

BRITAIN IS to send extra winter kit to Ukrainian Forces fighting Russian invaders.

A further 12,000 sleeping bags, 150 heated tents and more than 25,000 sets of extreme cold weather clothing are to be distributed by mid-December so troops can operate in and survive plunging temperatures in the region.

The announcement came as Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg became the first international leader to be hosted in Downing Street since Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took office last month.

The meeting was an opportunity to discuss the UK’s ongoing update to the Integrated Defence Review published last year, which highlighted the Alliance’s central role in Britain’s defence, to which it has committed a Royal Navy aircraft carrier and nuclear capability.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “Nato is the cornerstone of our security, and the security of our allies. As the war in Ukraine

continues to rage, we must not take peace at home for

their resistance to Putin’s brutality.

“I’m pleased that UK-donated kit will be keeping the Ukrainian Armed Forces warm and safe as

“We must also continue backing the Ukrainian people in

they face a perilous winter fighting for their country.”

Falklands veterans mark anniversary

Cold war reboot

A COLD WAR era missile that once defended RAF bases across the world has been restored by volunteers.

The rare Bloodhound MKII, complete with launch control post and Type 86 radar, was abandoned for more than 20 years, vandalised and left derelict before being acquired by ex-Air Force technicians and Ferranti engineers.

And hundreds of man hours later, after scouring eBay for spares and working with a Swiss museum, the Bloodhound Missile Preservation Group has restored the surface-to-air system to working order.

l Continued from front Today around 1,700 Armed Forces personnel and civil servants are based in the British overseas territory – mainly at RAF Mount Pleasant.

Falklands Islands Legislative Assembly chairman the Honourable John Birmingham said: “There has been a lot of work put in to make this pilgrimage a success and I must pass on my sincerest thanks to the community, which has come together to host, drive or help in so many other ways to make our guests feel at home.

Odiham salutes Forces women

A SILHOUETTE of a Servicewoman has been erected near RAF Odiham to remember the contribution of women to the Armed Forces.

The figure, dubbed a ‘female Tommy,’ was put up to mark the Hampshire station’s past as HMS Dauntless – a training base for the Women’s Royal Navy Service.

Burghfield resident Sally Reid, pictured, who bought the figure, said: “It felt more than appropriate to purchase a female Women in War figure as a representation of women in the Armed Forces now and in the past, remembering also that our late Queen also served.”

Veterans make the statues that are sold to the public to support a Royal British Legion campaign launched in 2021.

The figure has been named Rosalind after a former Wren whose daughter later became an RAF Wing Commander at Odiham.

“The sacrifices made by veterans and those who were never able to return home have enabled us to be the country we are today.

“We remain eternally grateful to every one of them. I hope they will always remember that they have a home in the Falkland Islands.”

Special 40th anniversary year commemorative events also took place at the National Memorial Arboretum and St Paul’s Cathedral in June and at a reception on board Royal Navy flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth in July.

In its heyday, the air defence weapon was deployed in the UK, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Borneo and Libya and was bought by Sweden, Singapore and Switzerland.

The main challenge was to get the simulator functioning again to demonstrate how the MKII was used defensively and to engage hostile targets.

The team are now restoring their Type 86 Bloodhound and are looking for a permanent home for its public display.

AI and robotics lift UK air power

EXO-SKELETON AND robot technology is being used to support frontline aircraft in trials at Coningsby.

BAE Systems and the Air Force are testing new equipment that works smarter and faster to reduce costs and improve the availability of Typhoon fighter jets and its successor Tempest.

The kit could be used to reduce fatigue and chances of injuries among support crews and to improve the speed of maintenance.

Gp Capt Daniel Penter said: “The pace by which technology advances is increasing all the time and it’s imperative that we explore with industry how best to harness this to enhance how we support the frontline.”

Some of the projects being trialled include exoskeletons –allowing personnel to handle greater loads safely – free-moving robots to assist with training and

maintenance and augmented reality headsets and a digital twin of the aircraft with its maintenance history.

Nick Sharples, BAE head of technology delivery, support and training, said: “New technologies and solutions for future fast jet support help us deliver leading-edge capabilities and value for money to the RAF on the frontline, whilst also reducing the environmental impact of operations.”

Para-dise lost

Heat beats crew’s UK record bid

RAF PARAMOTOR pilots have vowed to try again despite falling just short in their record-breaking bid to navigate the coastline of Britain.

Launching from Winglands Airfield, South Lincolnshire, the 22 Sqn trio flew over most of England and Wales before being beaten under 500 miles short by the weather.

Flt Lt Mike O’Hara said: “Not achieving the end goal has not deterred me from revisiting this challenge. I worked with great people for a deserving cause.”

Despite completing an average of 70 miles per flight – that often left their ground support team of Gunners, regulars and reserves unable to keep up – the summer heatwave scuppered their bid.

Flt Lt O’Hara said: “The thermic effect of this ranges from mild

discomfort, like driving over a rutted field, to lethality when wings are deformed or folded over.”

However, there were highlights with Flt Lt Andrew Whisker flying the whole coastline of Cornwall.

He said: “Cruising along at 5000ft with a 270-degree view of land and sea, the journey was idyllic. However, navigating round a very active Newquay Airport and taking off from Land’s End Airport was a tad scary.”

While Flt Lt O’Hara set the challenge record of completing a 105-mile flight on one tank of fuel on the Jurassic Coast, Sqn Ldr Tim Taylor flew across the Lake District into North Wales.

He said: “Hugging the coast meant I was looking along the valleys and following them up to the peaks of Scafell Pike and Snowdon that were looming over me, a breathtaking view and experience.”

Using phone apps to navigate and air band radios to communicate, the team pushed the supremely reliable Bulldog Motor on their craft, based on a Vittorazi 185cc Moster engine, to the limit experiencing only two mechanical issues, both easily and quickly repaired on the road.

But while increasing the profile of their sport and the RAF Benevolent Fund, their primary aim finally slipped from their grasp.

“Although not achieving the original goal, I have certainly enjoyed the experience and took away many things,” said Flt Lt Whisker.

“The whole challenge placed me well out of my comfort zone and into the area where I was able to test my navigational flying and push my confidence. I will certainly look to develop upon what we accomplished.”

Forces debt warning

Tracey Allen

A NEW report reveals unsecured debt among the Armed Forces is well above the national average.

Analysis of more than 155,000 people struggling with their personal finances shows those serving in the RAF, Army, Royal Marines and Royal Navy are collectively facing debt levels seven per cent higher than the national average of £15,998.

The report from charity SSAFA suggests 87 per cent of the veterans they work with have experienced financial problems since leaving the Armed Forces, with 67 per cent reporting issues with managing finances or debt.

New data from debt advice

specialist Creditfix shows that the average level of unsecured debt among military personnel struggling with their finances is £17,128.

Layla Johnson, head of advice at Creditfix, said: “The Defence community can experience a great number of challenges, many of which only become apparent when returning to civilian life. Because of this it’s increasingly worrying to see serving military personnel facing financial difficulty and debts before they retire from the Forces.”

According to the Money and Pension Service, 29 million UK adults feel uncomfortable talking about their financial situation despite 48 per cent saying they regularly worry about money.

Grad dad’s Royal first

PROUD AIR Force

Fg

Andrew joined the Royal Auxiliary Air Force in 2012 and has served with 4624 Sqn for 10 years.

Rocket men

AS THE countdown continues to the first space launch from UK soil expected this month, RAF News got a behind-the-scenes account from the Air Force unit which transported the rocket from the USA to Spaceport Cornwall ready for lift-off.

Not many people get asked to move a 70-foot-long space rocket by aircraft from America to Britain. But that’s the mission Space Command set RAF specialists from the Brize Norton-based Joint Air Delivery Test and Evaluation Unit (JADTEU), who are no strangers to shifting unusual loads.

Since being established in its current form in 1974, the team’s aerial delivery and airportability experts have moved Spitfires, combat-damaged aircraft and helicopters, a Leopard battle tank and even Nato Submarine Rescue System.

So, when Virgin Orbit needed to relocate their delivery Rocket Launcher One – which at 705 inches long is twice the length of a London bus – there was only one Air Force outfit to call. And only one aircraft to do the job – a 99 Sqn C-17 transporter.

“Being tasked with moving a space rocket doesn’t happen every day in the RAF,” said Trials Management Officer Flt Lt Charlie Warden.

“The physical move of Launcher One was the culmination of over 12 months of planning and research alongside teams from Virgin Orbit and Space Command.”

To safely transport the rocket, which took up the giant Globemaster’s entire cargo bay, JADTEU engineers designed a bespoke sled and flew to Detroit to see their creation in production.

Then came the move itself.

“Departing Brize Norton for MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, we were closely monitoring a hurricane that had just passed through,” said Flt Lt Warden.

“We then flew onto March Air Reserve Base to conduct the live trial and collect the rocket. On arrival, the team began to prepare the load and worked into the evening to make good use of the remaining Californian daylight.

“Departing for a final night stop on the east coast of the USA, a few people were holding their

In Brief

breath as the space rocket had never been moved by air before. A first for the RAF too.”

After a wet and windy night in Maine the team took off for Newquay Spaceport, where the offload went without a hitch and the JADTEU detachment returned to Brize.

Load Team member AS1 Jack Harrild said: “I was posted to the Airportability section shortly before the Virgin Orbit task, so it was amazing for my first task to be such a unique, high-profile job.

“Employed as part of a small team, it was a huge honour and a proud moment to contribute to the UK’s first Space Mission”.

The rocket, named Start Me Up after the Rolling Stones hit, is on track to launch this month strapped to a modified Boeing 747-400 dubbed Cosmic Girl, flown by RAF test pilot Sqn Ldr Mathew Stannard. But for the team that got it there it’s back to business as usual.

“Every day on JADTEU is different and you never know what’s around the next corner, work for Airportability doesn’t stop with currently over 100 trials ongoing,” said Flt Lt Warden.

Sting in the tail

Simon Mander

THE FIRST of the RAF’s new fleet of airborne early warning and control aircraft has received its distinctive fin-like sensor.

Stair master

INJURED VET Ben Wilson has completed his fundraising bid to ‘scale the world’s top peaks’ – by climbing his own staircase.

The 45-year-old, who suffered spinal injuries during a training accident, has spent three years on the challenge and will donate the cash he raises to Forces charity SSAFA.

Three Wedgetail AEW1s to be operated by 8 Sqn at Lossiemouth are having their Multirole Electronically Scanned Array kit installed in Birmingham.

Air Cdre Alex Hicks, Assistant Chief of Staff Capability Delivery for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance aircraft, said: “This highly complex technology is undeniably exposed

to the challenges facing global supply chains.

“This installation of the MESA sensor demonstrates the progress toward the capability of Wedgetail entering RAF frontline service.”

The Northrop Grumman equipment is housed in a distinctive fin on the spine of the aircraft fitted to a fuselage section.

It provides the Wedgetails with 360-degree coverage giving mission crews the tools that are needed to track airborne and maritime targets while maintaining continuous surveillance of an operational area.

Kabul Hercules hero lands AFC

A HERCULES pilot whose crew helped save some of the 15,000 people airlifted to safety in the RAF’s largest evacuation mission in more than 70 years has been awarded the Air Force Cross.

Ldr Bindloss-Gibb said: “I am humbled and honoured to accept this award on behalf of my crew for our actions on Operation Pitting.

“It was a test of the skills we practised in exercises and training routinely, but Pitting was far from ordinary.

GUNNERS DEPLOYED to Belgium to test their force protection skills alongside allies from six other nations.

A team from RAF Coningsby’s 7 Force Protection Wing and Intelligence Centre took part in the training, codenamed Volcanex.

Sqn Ldr James Hemingfield said: “We were able to test responses to threats to Nato and the UK interests working alongside our Swedish and Dutch colleagues to develop

an understanding of nuanced capabilities.”

The programme was run by the European Air Group of seven air forces established in 1991 through a partnership between Britain and France.

C-130J veteran Sqn Ldr Edward Bindloss-Gibb was presented with the medal at Windsor Castle for his actions during Operation Pitting, evacuating Afghan and UK personnel from Kabul Airport as the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan.

The latest exercise took place at Camp Roi Albert in Marche-enFamenne, Wallonia, Belgium to test junior force protection specialists in a multilateral headquarters.

At the height of the 16-day exodus in August 2021, Brize Norton-based Hercules, C-17s and A400Ms were involved in 165 sorties backed up by Voyager tankers.

After receiving his award from the Prince of Wales, Sqn

“This award is recognition of the crew, 47 Sqn and the RAF Air Mobility Force’s ability to deliver when it counts.”

The citation praised his ‘highly professional actions which undoubtedly saved many lives and protected his crew from the hazards of the operation.’

NATO test for Gunners Chinook and Apache boost Baltic mission

CHINOOK AND Apache combat helicopters are to be sent to strengthen Estonia’s defences in the New Year.

RAF Typhoon jets are already committed to Air Policing duties in the Baltic state from March to July 2023 and will continue to conduct Nato maritime patrols.

And from January, Chinooks will conduct the first of regular surges to back up the UK Battlegroup in Estonia that will also be armed with short-range air defence and multiple rocket launch systems.

Other high readiness forces are expected to deploy there from May for Exercise Spring Storm.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “The UK’s commitment to Estonia and European defence and security is unwavering.

“The deployment of assets such as Apache and Chinook helicopters to exercise in Estonia is a clear example of the strength of our relationship, and the importance we place on our ability to effectively operate side by side.”

He and his Estonian counterpart Hanno Pevkur signed a roadmap to implement commitments made at the Nato Summit in Madrid for a ‘more capable’ UK presence in Estonia to deter aggression and defend the Alliance.

Mr Pevkur said: “Estonia has committed to start the development of an Estonian warfighting division which will ensure coordinated use of national and allied forces in the

defence of Estonia. This work will be supported by the UK, which is providing training and mentoring through an advisory team and close links with the UK’s 3rd Division.”

Britain has also pledged to hold a Brigade-sized force at high readiness in the UK to reinforce Estonia and the Baltics at a time of need.

Estonia is supporting the

plans by building four additional accommodation halls at Tapa Camp for Nato personnel. Both countries are part of the 10-member European Joint Expeditionary Force.

Vets count

Staff Reporter

THE FIRST-EVER survey of the UK’s veterans population has revealed that nearly four per cent of Brits have served in the Armed Forces.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show that there are currently 1,853,112 vets living in the country.

The poll was organised by the Royal British Legion as part of its Count Them In Campaign to improve the quality of life for exService personnel.

RBL director Charles Byrne said: “Count Them In can be counted as one of the most significant successes in the Legion’s 10-year history.

“This data will transform our understanding of the veteran population and enable public and voluntary service providers to deliver the best care and support for our Armed Forces community, where it is needed most.”

Gunners boost Cyprus security

Simon Mander

GUNNERS TEAMED up with Griffin aircrew to beef up security at Akrotiri.

Specialists from 15 Sqn RAF Regiment improved defences across the Cypriot base, helped by 84 Sqn helicopters ferrying under-slung loads to remote areas.

It followed a physical check of fence lines to identify possible unauthorised access points or short cuts used by lost family dependents who risked wandering by mistake on to the runaway or dispersal areas.

trespassers accessing the station from nearby cliffs.

He said: “When the Quick Reaction Force respond to incursions at the base of the cliffs, they have to navigate a steep rocky treacherous track so preventing access will make it safer for our personnel.”

But to get the 420kg of razor concertina wire, barbed wire and metal pickets needed over difficult terrain required help from Griffin helicopters.

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15 Sqn Assault Pioneer Sgt Gareth Buckley said: “Defensive works have involved restricting access to the Air Operating Surface and 903 EAW to reduce the risk of accidental and potential life-threatening incursions onto a very active airfield.”

His engineering plan also identified a need to stop spear fishermen or other

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“Without the support of 84 Sqn the engineering works would have been unachievable,” said Sgt Joshua Preest.

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“Working with the helicopter crews allowed my team to employ skills in support of ongoing security operations.

“It’s the first time Gunners from the Resident Force Protection Squadron have been able to conduct a live underslung load hook up to enable the movement of vital defensive stores.”

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ATC duo cleared for take-off

Rum deal tots up

THREE FLAGONS from the last ever batch of Royal Navy rum to be offered to sailors are expected to sell for more than £7,000 when they come up for auction next month.

Defence chiefs called time on the centuries-old tradition of offering a daily tot in 1970.The 50-year-old spirit packs a punch at over 50 per cent ABV, auctioneers Dreweatts warned.

A spokesman said: “When the practice ended in 1970 many sailors regarded it as losing a favourite comrade on the ship and wore black armbands.”

Amanda Curson

AIR TRAFFIC controllers got a pilot’s eye view on air operations during recent flights in a Prefect trainer.

RAF Benson-based duo Fg Off Karina Filipiak and Sgt Jack Nixon are both currently awaiting phase-two training at Shawbury.

Fg Off Filipiak said: “Sitting in the cockpit having everything explained whilst listening to pilot and ATC interactions was eyeopening.

“Pilot and controller communication

is vital so it’s important to understand each other’s role.”

She was flown by 57 Sqn’s Wg Cdr Jamie Norris while Sgt Nixon flew with instructor Sqn Ldr Anthony Sumner.

Wg Cdr Norris added: “It was a pleasure to host Fg Off Filipiak and Sgt Nixon, who left with a deeper knowledge of the challenges we face. They both demonstrated a natural flair for aerobatics.”

Arrows’ Qatar call-up

Staff Reporter

Victims of gay ban speak out

VICTIMS OF the Forces ban on homosexuality are being asked to submit evidence to a new inquiry.

The review wants to hear from personnel who faced intrusive investigations and were criminalised, dismissed or forced to leave the military under the policy between 1967 and 2000.

The probe was first announced in January this year following growing calls for compensation for those who fell foul of the hardline ruling and is to be chaired by Britain’s first openly gay judge, Lord Etherton KC.

Investigators will also assess the impact on heterosexual personnel who were perceived to be gay and who were also subjected to investigation and feel they have been discriminated against.

Evidence can be provided through an online response form or by downloading a questionnaire and emailing or posting it to the inquiry or by submitting audio testimony, a spokesman said.

BRITISH AND Qatari aerobatics aces performed for crowds along Doha’s harbour with seafront displays to mark the air defence partnership between both nations.

They were joined by Typhoons from the joint RAF and QEAF 12 Sqn and 7 Sqn responsible for air security operations during the World Cup.

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, said: “The obvious bond and camaraderie between the RAF and QEAF pilots and engineers on 12 Sqn reflects the close relationship between our air forces.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the QEAF in tackling our shared security challenges.”

RAF Coningsby-based 12 Sqn deployed to Dukhan Air Base in September with 200 personnel and eight aircraft to support the formation of 7 Sqn –the QEAF’s first Typhoon unit.

The new QEAF 1 Wing will be home to 24 Eurofighters Qatar has purchased from BAE, four of which have so far been delivered.

UK support to the tournament includes air and maritime patrols

Reds fly the flag ahead of UK World Cup role

backed up by a Voyager tanker, Counter-IED, advanced venue search training, operational planning support, command and

control support and specialist advice.

The Arrows’ display over Doha is the team’s first since 2017 and is part of

a five-week tour to the Gulf and Egypt.

The

Emiri Air Force aerobatic display team flies the PC21 from the Al Zaeem Air Academy.

Crew View Op Eastern Hawk

ROYAL AIR Force personnel are operating in searing 40 degree heat in the Gulf on Operation Eastern Hawk as the Red Arrows fly the flag for the UK ahead of the World Cup in Qatar and the F1 showdown in Bahrain. RAF News reporter Chris Warr spoke to a few of the team supporting the world's most famous aerobatic display aces.

“Bahrain has been an enjoyable visit due to the hospitality, the food and the hot weather. The challenges for me are to make sure that people get from A to B safely and on time”

“Bahrain has been brilliant so far and it has been a highlight to experience another culture. The customs procedures have been particularly challenging in maintaining a fluid resupply from our UK support organisations”

Nat Sockell Circus 4, Engineer

“Circus lead is always a challenging role but with the great team here at RAFAT we have overcome all the challenges we have faced”

“My personal highlight of the tour so far has been displaying over the beautiful city of Doha, Qatar”

“As my first tour with the Red Arrows it has been a privilege to document everything that goes on behind the scenes of making RAFAT the premier aerobatic display team”

“Having not been to Bahrain before, I’m extremely happy to be here and to experience the culture and be able to document our tour”

“I’ve never been to Bahrain before, so I have enjoyed exploring in my downtime. I only started my role on RAFAT two weeks before deploying on Operation Eastern Hawk. I have enjoyed taking on the new challenge”

Honour for US bomber hero

A NEW memorial to a hero American bomber pilot whose bravery saved an Essex town has been unveiled.

World War II B-17 pilot Captain Robert Cogswell ordered his crew to bail out of his failing Flying Fortress before flying it –unexploded bombs still on board –away from local homes to crash land on the north-eastern side of Alresford Pond.

His aircraft earned the nickname ‘Lady Luck,’ that day though Capt Cogswell was later killed in action in Korea.

Alresford Society, the town council and the Historical & Literary Society banded together to create a new memorial after American visitors and residents were dismayed by the decayed state of the original wooden structure.

Benson-based USAF exchange officer Maj Dave Shealy and Sqn Ldr Sam Bennett from Odiham joined in the unveiling ceremony.

Alresford Society chairman Jan Field said: “Erected by the selfsame sponsors in 2003, it was no longer a fitting tribute to brave men and the important presence of American troops in and around the town in WWII.

“Precisely on cue, heavy rain cleared away and so we had sunshine, medals, a Stars and Stripes, an RAFA banner and even a bugler to play The Last Post. Rather splendid.”

Battle to save Pongo’s VC

Simon Mander

A RARE Victoria Cross awarded to the RAF following Far East battles in World War II is at risk of leaving the UK.

The medal, won by Sqn Ldr Arthur ‘Pongo’ Scarf, who died after returning from a raid gravely injured along with four others, is valued at more than £660,000.

It was placed under embargo last year by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and is prevented from being taken overseas on condition that a British-based buyer or institution matches the sale price.

Arts Minister Stuart Andrew is leading calls for UK buyers to step forward. He said: “Stories like these remind us of the sacrifices those who served in the Second World War made for the freedoms we enjoy today.

“I hope that a UK buyer can be found so these incredibly important objects can be displayed for future generations to see.”

His decision follows advice from the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest that the medals represent a unique and significant element of a particular moment in British military history.

His 1939-1945 Star, Pacific Star, Defence Medal and British War Medal were awarded posthumously in 1946, while the VC was presented to his widow Elizabeth by King George VI at Buckingham Palace.

Only 1,358 VCs have been presented since its introduction in 1856, with just 181 during WWII. Of the 22 awarded during the conflict to the RAF, it is the only one recognising service in the Far East.

Sqn Ldr Scarf earned the accolade for

bravery on a daylight raid in a Blenheim on Singora, Malaya, in December 1941.

Responsible for spearheading the mission, he had just taken off when enemy aircraft arrived –destroying or disabling the rest of the machines.

He flew alone to Singora defying enemy fighters, completed his bombing run, and on his way back was attacked and severely wounded. He crashed at Alor Star without causing any injury to his crew and died two hours later in hospital.

Sqn Ldr Scarf’s pregnant wife was a nurse based at Alor Star hospital but had been evacuated south.

Two other crewmen Sgt (later Sqn Ldr) Paddy Calder won a Distinguished Flying Medal and Sgt Cyril Rich, who was killed in action in 1943, were posthumously mentioned in Dispatches for their parts in the sortie.

Export committee member Tim Pestell said: “Famous as the ultimate symbol of bravery in combat, the Victoria Cross remains our most nationally significant military award following its establishment over 160 years ago. In a tale that could have come straight from a Boy’s Own story, the acquisition by a UK institution of Sqn Ldr Scarf’s award would provide a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by British and Commonwealth Servicemen fighting in the ‘forgotten war’ of the Far East.”

£45m kit deal to combat frontline IED threat

MILITARY PERSONNEL are to get extra protection from enemy improvised explosive devices under a £45 million deal.

Servicemen and women, vehicles and bases will receive life-saving innovative digital protection against remote and radio-controlled bombs.

Under the contract awarded to Team Protect Project CRENIC, UK military experts will collaborate with small and medium-sized businesses during the next five years.

Defence Procurement Minister Alex Chalk said: “As the technology used by our adversaries to threaten our people and operations evolves, we are innovating to stay ahead of the challenge.”

The project will develop equipment designed to be carried by troops, fitted to vehicles and protect bases by detecting and disrupting explosive devices using advanced techniques across the electromagnetic spectrum.

The new system will be supported by hardware and software standards, equivalent to that used in desktop computers and cell phones, to allow the Armed Forces to modify the solutions in the future and allow for greater collaboration with allies.

Director Capability Strategic Command Major General Robin Anderton-Brown said: “CRENIC will deliver a world-leading capability to protect our forces

deployed on global operations.”

The project is expected to support future electronic warfare including

countering remotely piloted air systems.

First deliveries of the new equipment are due to take place in 2026.

RAF Photographic Competition

THE WINNERS of this year’s RAF Photographic Competition have been announced.

With more than 1,000 images and 35 videos submitted the 11 judges spent seven days narrowing down their final choices before selecting a top three and highly commended across 12 categories.

The best nine pictures now go headto-head in the Peoples’ Choice category, where the public can vote on the RAF’s Facebook page for their favourite with the result announced at an awards ceremony at Bentley Prior on November 24.

Among the winners, Odiham’s Cpl Tim Laurence walked away with the coveted RAF Photographer of the Year title for his six images while Cranwell scooped the 2022 Photographic Section award.

Judge Times Picture Editor Ben Jones said: “The ability to spot and execute an image under huge pressure is a rare talent. I have nothing but respect for their skill as photographers and bravery as people to get in the right place at the right time. There were a lot of superb images in this contest.”

The panel said the technical quality of images submitted were of a high standard and the huge variety of subject matter served to intensify the competition.

Judge Modern Military Assistant Editor Josef Campion said: “Congratulations not just to the winners but to every entrant. The imagery was of excellent standard and the level of thought and dedication to every image was easily noticeable.

“I cannot express how difficult it was to reduce 154 images down to six.”

RESULTS

PERSONNEL

1st: Recruits getting younger these days –Andrew Wheeler, RAFC Cranwell

2nd: The X Factor – Andrew Wheeler, RAFC Cranwell

3rd: XV – Cpl Amy Lupton, RAF Marham

Highly Commended: Counting Sheep –

AS1 Jason Russell, RAF Odiham, The Low Fly – Cpl Lee Matthews, JADTEU, RAF Brize Norton

THE MALLETT

STUDENT

TROPHY

1st: AS2 Alexandra Naughalty, RAF Valley

2nd: AS1 Benjamin Drake, RAF Leeming

3rd: AS1 Hamilton Palmer, RAF Odiham

Highly Commended: AS1 Jaden Hewitt, JHC FS Aldergrove

AS2 Harris Williams, RAF Honington

PHOTOGRAPHIC

SECTION PORTFOLIO

1st: RAFC Cranwell

2nd: RAF Marham

3rd: RAF Valley

Highly Commended: JADTEU, RAF Brize Norton

RAF Coningsby

PEOPLE’S CHOICE

Winner announced on November 21.

1. Recruits getting younger these days –Andrew Wheeler, RAFC Cranwell

2. 90 not out – Cpl Tim Laurence, RAF Odiham

3. Blackjack – Cpl Lee Matthews, JADTEU, RAF Brize Norton

1st

RAF FEATURE

1st: AS1 Emily Muir, RAF Valley

2nd: AS1 Eoin Kirwan-Taylor, RAF Coningsby 3rd: AS1 Maryanne Williams, RAF Coningsby

Highly Commended: AS1 Abby Drewett, RAFAT, RAF Waddington

AS1 Tom Cann, Photo ACSSU, RAF Halton

SPORTS

1st: Tug ‘o’ War – AS1 Ben Mayfield, RAF Marham

2nd: Triumph and Pain – AS1 Iain Curlett, RAF Benson 3rd: In the Surf – AS1 Emily Muir, RAF Valley

Highly Commended: Clearing the Mind – AS1 Jake Hobbs, RAF Cosford Play in the Mud – Richard Beattie, RAF Wyton

AMATEUR CATEGORY.

1st: James Penberthy 2nd: Ben Murphy 3rd: Martyn Foss Highly Commended: Flt Lt Andy Donovan, Jared Barnes

RAF

PHOTOGRAPHER

OF THE YEAR.

1st: Cpl Tim Laurence, RAF Odiham

2nd: AS1 Hamilton Palmer, RAF Odiham

3rd: Cpl Lee Matthews, JADTEU, RAF Brize Norton

Highly Commended: AS1 Samantha Holden, Photo ACSSU, RAF Halton; AS1 Tom Cann, Photo ACSSU, RAF Halton

Flyboy Falklands 40 is a tribute to Forces

FOLLOWING THE success of watchmakers AVI-8’s partnership with the Royal British Legion in 2021, the charity’s centenary year, the company has announced the release of a new timepiece –the AVI-8 Flyboy Royal British Legion Falklands 40 MecaQuartz Limited Edition.

The watch has been designed as a tribute to the courageous men and women who served during the Falklands Conflict 40 years ago and raises money for the RBL to continue its vital work supporting those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces and their families.

Louise Ajdukiewicz, from the charity, said: “Since our partnership first launched in May 2021, AVI-8 has raised more than £33,000 for the Royal British Legion through the sales of bespoke watches. We are delighted that AVI-8 has launched this next timepiece,

which has been created with the highest attention to detail and has features inspired by military and aviation design.

“Our Armed Forces have always been – and always will be – committed to protect us, our freedoms and our society’s way of life. By purchasing this watch you’re helping the Royal British Legion provide ongoing vital support to the Armed Forces community and ensuring their unique contribution is never forgotten.”

With 1,500 individually numbered watches produced, £10 from the sale of each AVI-8 Flyboy Falklands 40 will go to the RBL.

Impeccably balanced and legible, the dial features thick applied Arabic indexes with Swiss lume, framed by a concave metallic chapter ring. Stamped at the 6 o’clock position are the coordinates of the Falkland Islands, to remember those who served 40 years ago. Completing the dial is the iconic RBL two-petal poppy on the seconds hand.

Measuring 40mm, a contemporary case with a serrated unidirectional bezel and aluminium ring insert offers a modern alternative to the traditional pilot’s watch. A sophisticated double domed hardened mineral glass with anti-reflective coating gives a clear view into the dial. Topping the crown is a vibrant red two-petal poppy enclosed in epoxy. The Falklands 40 edition is powered by a high-precision Japanese meca-quartz movement

featuring an elegant, sweeping seconds hand commonly found in high-end automatic timepieces.

Attaching the watch to the wrist is a vintage inspired premium handstitched genuine leather strap. The straps come in a choice of eight

Each of the 1,500 limited edition timepieces is uniquely numbered and comes packaged in a striking blue and red canvas gift box, reflecting the RBL’s colours.

The watch retails for £190 and we have one to win. For your chance to own this superb timepiece, tell us: In which year did the Royal British Legion celebrate its

Email your answer, marked RBL watch competition: to: competitions@rafnews.co.uk or post it to: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air

Command, High Wycombe, HP14 4EL, to arrive by December 2. Please include your full postal address with your entry. l Go to: avi-8.co.uk/ royalbritishlegion for more information.

RAF Brüggen was above par

IN 1955-57 I did my two years National Service in the RAF. After training I was posted to RAF Brüggen (2TAF) in Germany to complete my service. During that time, I made friends with some great lads and we have remained in touch ever since.

I was fortunate to be able to make return visits to the camp and attended the closing ceremony in June 2001.

I am sure I am not alone when I wonder what happened to the old camp after its closure. There were marvellous facilities at Brüggen, including an 18-hole golf course.

Could RAF News include a regular article on past RAF stations? I am sure many of your readers, like me, enjoyed their service in the RAF and have wondered what happened to their old ‘home’. I would hate to think there was dust and cobwebs in Accommodation Block No 56.

2778645 SAC)

EDITOR’S NOTE: RAF Brüggen was a major RAF station until June 15, 2001. A formal ceremony on that date officially ended a continuous Royal Air

Force presence in Germany since World War II. The base was handed over to the British Army on February 28, 2002 to become a garrison and is now known as Elmpt Station, Javelin Barracks. The 18hole RAF Brüggen Golf Club became West Rhine Golf Club.

Nuke test vets honoured

I WAS very interested to read the article on page 15 of RAF News 1546, (cover date October 21). It does not, however, cover the ‘events’ connected with nuclear veterans during the last six months.

On April 21 the Daily Telegraph had the headline: ‘Nuclear test veterans win battle for medals’. Since then I have written to my MP requesting clarification from the Minister for the Armed Forces and Veterans –reply awaited.

In addition, I have written to the Defence Services Secretary, who says that medals are still under consideration (as per your article).

We are the only atomic nation that has no recognition for those

veterans who served. All very disappointing as, sadly, the number of veterans is steadily decreasing.

But, on October 24, I received an invitation from the Cabinet Office to an event to mark the contributions and service of nuclear test veterans, to be held at the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire, on November 21.

I am sure there are RAF News readers who would appreciate updates in the newspaper when they occur.

May I also suggest an article on the RAF operations on Christmas Island during the nuclear tests?

THERE IS an error in Tim Morris’s otherwise excellent article about holidaying in Shropshire (RAF News No 1545, cover date September 23).

The famous Iron Bridge was not built by Thomas Telford. It was

constructed by Abraham Darby III. Telford was a big engineering name in Shropshire, hence the name of the New Town, and he did build roads and bridges in the county, but not the most famous one.

Iron Bridge wasn’t one of Telford’s

The

Government should do right thing on pensions ‘mistake’

RIGHT now there are two big issues affecting Armed Forces Pensions.

The first you will be aware of, and that’s the 2015 Remedy (McCloud). The Society pressed government not only to correct their mistake but to choose the remedy that will work best for Forces personnel.

Our efforts were successful, resulting in Deferred Choice Underpin being selected, putting you in the best possible position to make an informed choice at the point of your departure. But the implementation of the remedy is highly complex and meeting the October 2023 deadline is proving challenging for the Government to achieve. We will monitor this closely, continue holding the Government to account and reporting on progress.

The second issue is about who pays for the Government’s initial mistake.

When AFPS15 was introduced, a costcontrol mechanism (CCM) was established to ensure Public Services Pensions were maintained within a fixed range (+/- 2%) to protect taxpayers and scheme members alike.

The latest calculation found that the cost of member benefits has fallen by 4.1% of pay, and an improvement to the 2015 Scheme for the Armed Forces was agreed.

But this was suspended whilst Government considered the consequences of the costs associated with the 2015 Remedy.

Government now wants to include these costs (estimated at £17Bn) within the CCM calculations, denying members’ previously agreed improvements to their benefits. In effect, this could mean that those serving our country will have smaller pensions in order to pay for the Government’s error. A judicial review is being undertaken to resolve the dispute.

The Society’s view is that both the letter and the spirit of the previous agreements means this Government should do the right thing now and absorb the costs of the 2015 Remedy.

* If you want to find out more about the Forces Pension Society’s work and how you can become a Member, visit www.forcespensionsociety.org. We give you a voice where it counts, on the representative bodies for Armed Forces and Public Sector Pensions. And the larger our membership (currently approaching 65,000), the greater our influence.

Liz is a Wokk star

Chinook vet faced down Taliban and signed off on board Bravo November

SHE’S SURVIVED a near fatal wire strike on board a Chinook, dodged bullets and rocket-propelled grenades, defended her crew with return fire from the M134 and M60 she operated, and even found herself hanging headfirst out of the heavy-lift helicopter 40 feet up during a night exercise.

At 21 Liz McConaghy was the youngest aircrew member to deploy to Iraq and the only female crew member on the Chinook wing for four years.

In her almost 18-year RAF career, she served two deployments to Iraq, then 10 to Helmand Province in Afghanistan in support of Op Herrick. She was on the last 1310 Flight deployment from Camp Bastion as British forces withdrew in 2014.

Liz was medically discharged from the Service in 2019, aged 37, with a neck injury.

She said: “I’d have stayed for life if they’d let me. I was offered a desk job and tried it for three months but I joined to fly.”

She has an enduring fondness for the Chinook, calling it ‘the love of my life’ and said her biggest honour was serving on the Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT), recovering wounded Service personnel from the battlefield – often under fire –and witnessing them both die and come back to life at her feet in the cabin of the helicopter.

Despite pursuing a career she loved, Liz candidly admits that her experience of war came at a personal cost and, after suffering from PTSD and making a suicide attempt, she now wants to tell her story to help others battling mental health issues.

Her new book Chinook Crew ‘Chick’ (pen-and-sword.co.uk) sold out on the publisher’s website and became an Amazon bestseller.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Liz now lives near RAF Odiham in Hampshire and works for a drone company. When her brother was joining the Army, she became interested in an RAF career She joined the Service in 1997, aged 18.

The first time Liz saw the Chinook, she said she was ‘completely in awe of it.’

“It’s the biggest helicopter, the beefiest one, it’s an amazing aircraft all round – I loved it so much, the smell and the sound of it. It looked after me over 17 years. I’ve taken bullets, avoided rocket-propelled grenades and all sorts of stuff. It’s been my safe chariot,” she added.

Her first RAF flight was on the legendary Chinook Bravo

November in the Falkland Islands in 2003, and so was her last, in 2017, also in the Falklands. After seeing the famous war horse again at the RAF Museum Midlands this spring, the former Flight Sergeant said: “I got very emotional, it brought back so many memories for me. It was almost like that aircraft had been my entire career. I’m very proud of her.”

Although the only female in a male-dominated environment for years, Liz says she never encountered sexism while she was in the RAF.

She revealed: “I was always called a ‘crewman’ – it’s one of the things I’m proudest of. Crewman was my job and ‘crew chick’ was my nickname. You get far more respect for not trying to highlight yourself as being ‘special’ in any way: as a chick doing such a manly job, and in shouting about it, you single yourself out in a sexist way. If you think you are owed some sort of prize for being capable of doing things as a woman, you’re almost saying you are incapable in the first place. Keep your head down, get stuck in the same as the rest and be the best ‘person’ at your job.”

She credits MACr

Geraint ‘Roly’ Roberts as helping her become the best crewman she could be.

Liz said: “He was harsh on me but he would never accept anything less than what he knew I was capable of. Roly believed in me. The last time I saw him was at a mate’s wedding in 2015 –he said he was so proud of the crewman I had become.”

Tragically, he was killed in a Puma crash in Kabul later that year. It was Roly who came to Liz’s rescue when she accidentally fell out of a Chinook during a night sortie after the aircraft door gave way when she leant on it.

Liz said: “Crewing the MERT aircraft was an honour. It was a privilege to be part of our soldiers’ final journey and it will remain with me forever as

the greatest purpose of my career.”

Her role involved recovering wounded personnel of any nationality, not just British. She found that particularly testing when one of the casualties was a Taliban member.

She said: “That was quite hard, it was difficult to suppress that emotion and anger. But they are still human beings at the end of the day.”

Liz had a breakdown in 2020. She had PTSD counselling for two years and during that time started to write poetry, which led to her penning Chinook Crew ‘Chick’

She said: “I wrote the book in three weeks with no intention of it ever being seen by anyone. A friend asked to read it and then said I should send it to a publisher.

“Now my story’s out there, it seems to be helping people with their mental health. You don’t have to be labelled as a ‘PTSD person’. Those days are behind me. It doesn’t have to define you for the rest of your life, there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

We have copies of Chinook Crew ‘Chick’ to win – for your chance to own one, tell us: What was Liz McConaghy’s rank in the RAF?

Email your answer, marked Chinook book competition, to: competitions@rafnews. co.uk or post it to: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, HP14 4EL, to arrive by December 2.

RAF Oman chief reviews new officers at Cranwell

OFFICER CADETS from the RAF Officer Training Academy are flying high after graduating from RAF College Cranwell.

Air Vice-Marshal Khamis Hammad Al-Ghafri, Commander Royal Air Force Oman, was the Reviewing Officer at the graduation of The King’s Squadron consisting of Officers of Modular Initial Officer Training Course No 15 and Commissioned Warrant Officers Course No 25.

He said: “It is my great honour to be the Reviewing Officer at this graduation. I share the pride of your family, friends, and colleagues as you graduate and become the latest cohort of Officers. It is clear for me to see that air forces around the globe continue to attract and recruit the most talented of people, ensuring that our leaders of tomorrow are the finest.

“This day is an important career milestone and one that is rightly celebrated, so enjoy the occasion, the hard work starts again tomorrow as your journey towards frontline operations continues. I wish you all the very best for the future, and well done.”

GRADUATING OFFICERS OF OTC NO 15

AVM was pioneer Harrier test pilot

AIR VICE-MARSHAL Mike

Adams, who has died aged 88, spent much of his RAF service in a series of test flying appointments and identifying and assessing future operational requirements. He played a pivotal role in the development of the Harrier jump jet.

Prior to attending No 22 Course at the Empire Test Pilots’ Course in December 1963, Adams flew the Canberra in England followed by a tour in Cyprus with 32 Squadron. He became a flying instructor at Syerston and served as the ADC to the Commandant at the RAF College Cranwell.

After completing the test pilots’ course at Farnborough, he was posted to ‘A’ Squadron at the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment (A&AEE) at Boscombe Down, where he flew test and evaluation flights on the current RAF fighters. These included numerous weapon trials on the Hunter and flights on the later versions of the supersonic Lightning.

At an early stage, Adams became involved in testing the Hawker P 1127 experimental aircraft; the world’s first VSTOL (Vertical and Short Take Off and Landing) aircraft. Analysis of the flights identified the need for considerable modifications and re-design of the wing before the aircraft could enter RAF service as the Harrier. He was awarded a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air following his time at Boscombe Down.

After three years, he was loaned to Hawker Siddeley to join the small group of company pilots flying the Kestrel (the name given to the P 1127) from Dunsfold airfield. By the end of 1967, the first production Harrier for the RAF had flown and Adams and his colleagues spent the next months flying the aircraft on trials with fuel drop tanks, bombs and rocket pods fitted, all of which underwent carriage and jettison clearance throughout the aircraft’s flight envelope.

work in developing the Harrier he was awarded the AFC.

After his time testing the Harrier, he went to the MOD for the first of three appointments in the operational requirements division before returning to Boscombe Down in November 1972 to command ‘A’ Squadron. He flew the Phantom, which had recently entered service in the RAF, and he continued to fly test profiles in the Lightning.

the aircraft to be given its ‘Release to Service’ prior to entering RAF squadron duties.

I

n 1969, the Daily Mail organised a Trans-Atlantic Air Race to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first Atlantic crossing by John Alcock and Arthur Brown. Adams was selected to fly a Harrier, refuelling in flight en route, from London to New York. Shortly before the race in May, Adams was taxiing a Harrier when the nose wheel collapsed, he injured his back and was forced to withdraw and a replacement took his place. For his

However, his priority was the testing of the new Anglo-French Jaguar strike/attack aircraft. The aircraft’s handling characteristics and performance profiles were investigated and assessed, and these were later explored when the aircraft carried weapons and external wing-mounted fuel tanks.

These wide-ranging and extensive test flights, and their analysis, were flown in order for

In September 1974, Adams completed a course to fly helicopters before returning to Boscombe Down, this time as Superintendent of Test Flying and Training (chief test pilot) responsible for supervising test flying of all RAF and RN aircraft and helicopters at A&AEE. This included the preliminary work on the Tornado and the Sea Harrier, continuing work on the Jaguar, the Hawk trainer and the Puma helicopter. In addition, he flew trial flights in multi-engine aircraft, including the Hercules and Comet 4, used as flying test beds for various equipments and avionic installations.

In January 1984 he became Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Operational Requirements) in the MOD. After a year, and following

a major reorganisation of the operational staffs in MOD (the Heseltine Review), he moved to the Central Staff as Assistant Chief of Defence Staff (Air Systems).

He was heavily involved in the European Fighter Aircraft (EFA), the collaborative programme that became the Typhoon fighter. There was considerable work on the JP 233 airfield denial weapon, and preparing the requirements for a new generation of precision guided weapons, which led to the acquisition of Brimstone, the airlaunched ground attack missile, and Storm Shadow, the AngloFrench air launched, long-range cruise missile.

Adams also became involved in the selection of a new training aircraft for the RAF and he visited Switzerland to test fly the Pilatus PC-9. Despite favourable reports on the aircraft, the Brazilian Tucano aircraft was acquired.

is

During his flying career he flew 66 different types of aircraft amassing almost 7,000 hours.

In 1989 he joined the French aerospace company Thompson CSF as their UK director before retiring in 1994.

Adams had been a strong supporter of the RAF Mountaineering Association. He met, and married, his wife Sue, a WRAF officer, when both were serving on the association’s committee. He continued climbing the Scottish munros well into his 70s, and walked the North and South Downs several times a week. Despite having been diagnosed with inoperable cancer in May, he continued his five-mile walks until a month before his death.

I ALWAYS find ‘12 hours in’ features a challenge because there’s usually so much to do, in so little time, and you can never cover everything.

When it comes to London however, things get much, much harder. As an Englishman, I am perhaps a little biased but few would argue that London is one of the world’s greatest cities. It has so much to offer visitors, from ancient history to the biggest modern events.

Marvel at the incredible museums, take in the best live shows, savour the culinary delights of this outstandingly vibrant city, or just spend some time seeing the world-famous sights – the options are endless. London certainly provides a photo opportunity like no other.

Running through the middle of the bustle is the River Thames, the vein that has fed the heart of the city since the very first settlements. At the peak of the Roman Empire mariners carefully navigated the tides of Tamesis to bring supplies to Londinium and it remains one of the busiest waterways in the UK. It’s a tourist attraction in its own right, flanked with immense culture and jaw-dropping architecture. Some of the most photographed sites in the world stand on its banks.

In many ways the river feels like a living thing, breathing with the tide and changing its character as it winds its way through London’s distinctly varied neighbourhoods. It is, in my book, the best way to experience the city when you’re on a tight timeline. If you can find the right skipper, someone who knows its waters, its history and its legends, you’re onto a winner.

Use a well-known search engine and you’ll find many options, but there’s a difference between a water taxi and a cruise. Services such as UberBoat will get you between piers fast but, if you want to enjoy your day on the water, City Cruises takes some beating.

The company is, these days, part of the Hornblower group, a massive US operator that has interests globally. At first glance you’d expect it to be another ‘get ’em on, get’ em off’ transport company, but you’d be wrong because City Cruises has managed to maintain that familyrun feel.

Relax

The vessels that it operates on the Thames are slower and older than some of the competition but that is more than made up for by the friendly service from the crew and the immense experience of the skippers/guides. For many of them the Thames is a way of life, a birthright passed down through generations of mariners.

My skipper, Lee, was a fount of knowledge, pointing out everything from ancient landmarks to celebrities’ houses as we skimmed impressively beneath bridges that would have been impassable on the tide minutes earlier. We wound our way from Westminster Pier all the way to Greenwich, the afternoon sun reflecting off the water. I initially stood on the top deck, taking in the sights from the Houses of Parliament to Tower Bridge and on to the famous observatory,

12 hours in… London

all covered by Lee’s brilliant commentary. I then took the return trip, stopping at Tower Pier, before returning to Westminster in the comfort of the cabin.

The ‘Millennium of Peace’ chugged effortlessly against the current, allowing me to enjoy the passing scenery with a welcome cup of tea and a light meal. I found that the crew could not do enough to help, which was a welcome change to the usual rush of city transport. It was a truly pleasant trip and, with an unlimited day pass costing around £16, it wasn’t even expensive.

If you’re even slightly claustrophobic, or generally don’t like being jostled around, this is my tip for enjoying the sights of London. On a decent day you can stand on the top deck to enjoy the breeze as you hit the ‘windy strait’ and when it’s cold you can watch the city float by from the warmth of the cabin with a hot cocoa. The skippers know all the best spots to stop for photo opportunities and you’ll get great views of everything.

You can book your cruise with lunch for £45, or dinner with entertainment for £85. If you’re more

of a thrill seeker, then there is also a speedboat tour available for £42.

Adventure

There are so many attractions to choose from in London that it’s almost impossible to know where to start. Fortunately, most things that you’ll desperately want to see are within easy walking distance of the river.

The Houses of Parliament and the famous clock at Elizabeth Tower, known as ‘Big Ben’ after the massive bell within, are just the start. The London Eye and London Aquarium are on the opposite site of Westminster Bridge. St Paul’s Cathedral is a couple of miles down the Embankment if you fancy a walk, or you could head the other way, up Great George Street and through St James’ Park to get to Buckingham Palace. A short walk from there, through Green Park, will bring you out at the luxurious RAF Club.

My choice for the top attraction to visit however would be one of the oldest in the city, the Tower of London. At various times you can see the RAF Regiment at the Tower, on duty alongside the famous

Yeoman Warders, more commonly known as Beefeaters. It’s a magical place to visit, dating back to the days of William the Conqueror. Building work started around 1078 and the 15-foot thick great stone walls have stood fast ever since.

The Beefeater guides and the Tower’s many displays bring history to life in really entertaining ways. It’s a living museum within the walls of a castle, full of tales of torture, death and punishment, but it’s also a working building that still guards the British Crown Jewels. If you don’t mind a queue, you can see them for yourself as part of the tour.

As you look down into the courtyard from one of the many windows, you realise that you’re looking at a self-contained village, protected from the outside world by those massive walls. It has a pub, a church, small medical practice and a picturesque village green, all circled by those world-famous ravens of course.

Adult tickets cost just under £30 but you can make a full day of it if you want to and if you get there a bit early at the start of the day you might get the place pretty much to yourself for a while.

Eat & Drink

As you leave the Tower of London through Traitor’s Gate you’re presented with a great view of Tower Bridge and a very short walk leads you down to the riverside. There you’ll find a very trendy venue called the Coppa Club, or ‘Coppa by the Tower’. We arrived without a reservation and were seated by very welcoming staff. In warm weather you can sit outside and take in the river view of the Southbank skyline. In the winter you can relax in a private, clear igloo that gives you the same

outdoor dining experience without the wet, chilly bit.

We ordered the bucatini carbonara, with guanciale, pecorino, black pepper and egg yolk, which arrived promptly and was very well presented. The portions were small for the £15 price tag but it was one of the best carbonaras that I have ever tasted.

Alternatively, you could grab food on the go at either Borough Market or Maltby Street Market. If you’d prefer the Afternoon Tea experience, (and you’re a member) head back up to the RAF Club where you can enjoy your tea with a massive selection of sandwiches, patisseries & scones with a lovely view of Green Park from the Cowdray Lounge, £25 or £35 with champagne.

Verdict

London is arguably the best city in the world, with architecture to rival Rome and a history that is almost unrivalled. There is action and adventure at every turn, but you can also stop to relax in the many wonderful parks that are dotted, peacefully, around. It’s a shopper’s paradise and a worldleading centre for music, fashion and art. There is literally something for everyone.

My advice is to take your time, plan your visit and enjoy the experience. Stay overnight if you can because the city takes on a different vibe after dark. Twelve hours in London is not nearly enough but centre your visit around a river cruise and you won’t go far wrong.

Visit

l visitlondon.com l cityexperiences.com/london/ city-cruises

l hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london l coppaclub.co.uk/by-the-tower l rafclub.org.uk/cowdray-lounge

‘THE WORLD’S Strongest Man’ –that’s what springs to mind whenever I see a Honda HR-V. It’s not because the car is particularly ‘hench’, far from it, it’s because I’m getting old.

You see, 1998 was a lot of fun. It was the first year that I read the news for ITV and the same year that Honda launched its revolutionary soft-roader. I’d been covering a live broadcast in Minehead with a World’s Strongest Man contestant and was on my way home when I ended up behind the first HR-V I’d ever seen. It was carrying two surf boards on the roof and pulled into the layby ahead of me in one hell of a hurry. As I passed, I saw a guy with a mad mop of blond hair exit the car and head into the woods, presumably to use the ‘little dude’s bush’.

At that moment it occurred to me that the HR-V was a very coollooking bit of kit that was perfectly suited to people who used the word ‘sweet’ every time things went well and described every near-death experience as ‘gnarly’. I liked it and, in my next review, I most emphatically said so.

Fast forward to the second generation and that ‘out there’ styling had been replaced with a far more conventional cross-over. It wasn’t the same concept or the same target market, as far as I could see. Now we have the new HR-V and, once again, it bears little resemblance to either of its predecessors.

Unlike many models that undergo a bit of a facelift every so often, but are basically the same car, Honda seems to have gone down the Doctor Who route of regeneration. Every version has the same backstory but is, otherwise, deliberately different. This isn’t a crossover anymore, those are so 2010s, this is a Coupé Cross-Over. Get with the programme.

Exterior

The latest HR-V is only available as a hybrid, so the e-HEV, or Hybrid Electric Vehicle, badge comes as standard. Crisp, angular styling cues add definition all round, while the side profile is sleek enough to mimic that coupe flair. The attention to detail is good, incorporating rear door handles that cunningly blend with the window line, sporty alloys and a front grille with angular proportions not seen since the

Coupe cross-over’s a strong contender

Verdict

The Honda HR-V is fighting to be noticed in a very competitive segment. Many rivals do certain things better but none beat it outright. It may not have the wow factor that the original HR-V had back in the day but

it’s a well-designed, wellequipped family SUV that’s been redesigned to target a new generation of buyers. With its nicely finished interior and coupé profile, it’s certainly worth a look… even if it’s only to find out what the hell ‘magic seats’ are.

for a crossover. A bit more reach adjustment on the wheel would be nice for taller drivers sitting low, but it’s a minor point.

In the back, the coupé styling naturally means slightly restricted headroom for adults and the roofmounted middle seatbelt isn’t ideal.

There’s masses of leg room and it has ‘magic’ seats. They don’t make rabbits appear, but they do transform in an ingenious way to allow you to load all manner of objects into the back of the car, while keeping the boot space completely separate.

On The Road

The HR-V is a purposeful beast to drive. The steering is accurate and evenly weighted, which feels bangon for a smallish crossover. It feels assured, with supple suspension that allows it to glide along serenely for most of the time. It’s a very comfortable way to travel, with loads of space for your passengers.

1980s. I mean that in a good way.

It’s a car that stands out, and it needs to because there are a lot of competing alternatives in this segment. The Nissan Qashqai, the Ford Puma, the VW T-Roc, the Seat Ateca and the Skoda Karoq are all vying for your attention here. Has Honda managed a bold enough look to take them on? We think so.

Interior

The cabin features plenty of plush materials that are soft to the touch. Everything feels jolly well bolted together and a lot of thought has gone into the design of the dashboard. The chrome effect air vents, for example, are designed

to circulate air smoothly without creating an unpleasant wind and they work, well.

The instrument cluster consists

of a 7in digital driver display, with a 9in touchscreen supplying the interface with the infotainment system. It’s not quite as quick-witted as some rivals, but the graphics are sharp and you get loads of other features for your money.

The driving position is good, with plenty of adjustment on the seat. You can choose to sit up high, like an SUV, or jack the seat down for a sportier coupe feel. The pedals are placed directly in line with the driver and it’s easy to find a comfortable driving position. Once you have, the steering wheel is chunky enough to make you want to grip it hard as you throw the car into corners so it’s engaging,

Being a ‘regular’ hybrid, there’s no need to charge the HRV’s battery because the petrol engine does this for you. The car automatically switches between the engine and electric power in everyday use, although you can choose to manually select EV mode for a few miles around town if you wish. The system works well overall, delivering a combined fuel consumption of 52.3mpg, 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds and a top end of 106mph.

It’s not a perfect system though. The engine note is particularly coarse when you give it some welly, the CVT gearbox gives you that familiar hybrid ‘slipping clutch’ impression until the car’s speed catches up and you experience a fair bit of vibration through the pedals/ steering wheel while it’s getting there.

The safety systems are also a bit over the top, attempting to take control away from the driver far too much for my liking. There doesn’t appear to be any way of turning off the lane-keep assist function, so it will guide you alarmingly towards parked vehicles, and it will unexpectedly slam the brakes on if you’re navigating tight spaces in traffic. Not my favourite feature.

Brad bid to Axe killer TB

CORPORAL BRAD Axe faced 29 opponents over a tortuous 100 three-minute rounds of boxing to raise £1,800 for tuberculosis charity TBAlert at RAF Akrotiri gymnasium.

With his wife Katelan and members of the station’s boxing team acting as his corner staff, the 75kg UKAF champion faced fighters from the RAF, Viking and Anglian boxing clubs.

The six-and-a-half-hour sparring session, which saw Axe burn more than 6,000 calories, closed with five rounds against RAF boxer Flt Lt Sal Hill, whose mother recently passed away after contracting tuberculosis.

Axe said: “All I can say is ‘wow, what a challenge.’ My overall

pace was so much higher than I thought. I was absolutely buzzing with how sharp I stayed for the whole 100 rounds.

“So many people came down to show their support and I appreciated every single one of them, they made it that bit easier.

“It was such a relief to hear the final bell, even my coach on the day, Ross Woolgrove got a bit choked up.”

Axe, who is vice-captain of the RAF Boxing team, added: “The rounds against Sal were high pace, hard and fast. With him being so tall, I had to work hard.

“My corner team were fantastic on the day. I honestly wouldn’t have been able to do it if it wasn’t for them.”

Boxers Channel their aggression

Guernsey tour of duty for RAF fighters

Daniel Abrahams

THE SERVICE’S boxers came away with a five to three bout win from a tough night of action at the Beau Sejour Leisure Centre in Guernsey.

A partisan Channel Islands crowd and a card of tough local fighters awaited the RAF touring select, who got off to back-to-back wins.

First up was middleweight AS1 Ben Waugh, who demonstrated brutal power and accuracy to stop his opponent inside two rounds.

Then bantamweight Steph Adlington, representing the Service as a civil servant, in her first contest demonstrated sharp footwork and superior timing to come away with a well-deserved points win.

The next three contests dented the RAF’s success rate as light welterweight AS1 Corey Rivers, welterweight AS1 Alex White and heavyweight AS1 Alex Sanderson all lost on closely-scored points decisions.

The Service boxers now looked to the last three RAF combatants to turn the tide, despite all being matched against reigning Channel Island champions.

First up middleweight AS1 Stevie Porter, a recent addition to the association’s development squad, faced Jersey boxer Ciaron Croke and, controlling the centre of the ring and landing cleaner shots, duly won on a split decision.

Next up, a rematch two years in the waiting saw super heavyweight Cpl George Westpfel face home favourite Dan Maree.

That time Westpfel came away with a close points win.

Guernsey’s hardest-hitting fighter targeted Westpfel’s body with early success; however, the long-range counter punching and a willingness to take the fight to his opponent turned the tide for the RAF PTI.

Several well-placed crunching blows resulted in a facial injury for Maree, forcing the referee to halt the proceedings early in the second round.

The final bout of the night saw Wyton’s bantamweight AS1 Frankie

Lyall targeting her third straight win of the season, against experienced Jersey fighter Calli Bushall.

Having taken the bout last year, Bushall was facing a different opponent this time in Lyall, who, having taken an early lead, controlled the pace of the fight.

A similar second round saw the Jersey boxer forced to use every ounce of her experience to pressure Lyall. With a near punch perfect performance Lyall ensured she avenged her loss and secured overall victory for the constantly improving RAF team.

Fancy going off grid?

Service search for American Football stars of the future

THE GRIDIRON gauntlet has been thrown down and the Service is ‘more than happy to take it up’.

So says RAF Mustang assistant head coach Sgt Paul Wakeford, talking to RAF News following the recent Tri-Service American Football training day at Tidworth ahead of next year’s inaugural Inter-Service championship.

“The rivalry was very much apparent," he said. “The camp started collectively, but split into its own packs quite quickly. The Army began training on their own and it was quickly an ‘us and them’ thing. We won’t be backing away from this, we are more than happy with where we are going.”

He added: “Since the camp, we have spoken about having another Tri event, but it’s obvious everyone wants things to be more single service.

“The Inters is set for next year, over three separate weeks in August, September and November, with one game played in each month. As

such, we are now working towards that with plans for some friendly matches during the BAFA [British American Football Association] pre-season next year.”

Wakeford – also head coach for BAFA division one club Rushmore Knights in Hampshire – has played a major part in the sport’s development in the Service, which has seen it gain more than 250 registered players and Category 3 Recognised status with the Sports Directorate, all in the last year.

Wakeford (inset left) said: “We are very fortunate to have Warren Smart as our head coach [head coach of Wembley Stallions] and to have a foundation of other coaches with a good amount of experience.

“We have held camps across the country, at Halton and Cranwell for example, but we want to hold single day events now focused on the fundamentals of the sport, with a plan for a longer camp following

“For us now, it’s about getting the word out there for personnel who are maybe not going to reach the highest level in their current sport, but have a chance to do so with us.”

l Visit the RAF Mustangs’ Instagram page @rafamericanfootball.

500km ride raises funds for British Legion

“JUST GO for it,” was Sgt Lewis Cooper’s advice when he completed the final pedal pushes after a 500km London to Ypres ride for the RBL.

He added: “This was my second cycling trip with the RBL, to be able to give back to such a worthwhile charity was an incredible experience.”

Starting in Dover, before rolling out of Dunkirk into Belgium, Cooper and a field of 70 riders, along with RAF Cycle Triathlon Association members in ride leader capacity for the event organisers, made stops at war graves including the Menin Gate towards the end of the ride –aided by an RBL historian.

Averaging 75 miles a day in temperatures reaching the mid 30s, the ride was completed in three days and raised £50,000 for the RBL.

Community champ Nick

WING COMMANDER Nick Bradshaw has been named as one of the Premier League’s 100 Community Captains as part of the football governing body’s 30th anniversary.

The accolade was for his work with his team, Maidenhead United Football Club.

Wg Cdr Bradshaw said: “The selections were made on the basis of work carried out by people in support of their local communities, and the overall impact that they had made.

“I was selected in part for the work I did in the community during the Covid pandemic, as well as when working in my local vaccination centre.”

The selections came as the Premier League announced it was making £9m available to help the 72 National League clubs with ‘running costs and sustainability’.

A Premier League spokesman said a further £3.6m would be available via the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association’s partnership to support the National League Trust and the network of club community organisations like the Maidenhead United FC Community Trust.

Bradshaw, who was presented with a Premier League pennant and special captain’s armband by Maidenhead United captain Alan Massey, was commended for his support of late Maidenhead fan Levi Niemann.

Bradshaw formed a friendship with Niemann, who was registered blind in 2012, helping him to live more independently and even to achieve a lifetime ambition to skydive to raise more than £3,000 for Guide Dogs UK.

show season ready for take-off

History girls

Welsh wonder retires

CORPORAL SIAN Williams became the first player to lift the IDRC Plate trophy for UKAF in New Zealand recently, closing out a Service rugby union career filled with firsts.

Announcing her retirement from the game following the final whistle, RAF News looks back on a career which helped shape the present-day face of Service and international women’s rugby union.

Gp Capt Mark Jackson, director of women’s rugby union, said: “In 2015 I started a five-year plan for RAF women’s rugby union, alongside Sqn Ldr Katie Sharman. We had a really good bunch of individuals involved in RAF rugby union, but we were the also-rans. Now we have three players at the World Cup. A lot of the reason for that was based around three talented players, one being Sian.

“She went on to be our first Elite Status athlete in 2016, at that time she was

captaining Wales Sevens, within a year she was at the Commonwealth Games.

“She was the springboard for the players of today, and her success meant that I could go out to Premiership sides to talk about our players. She was the leading light.

“Sian has done a huge amount for women’s rugby and women’s sport.”

Williams’ list of achievements both on and off the field is hugely impressive, in 2016 she became the first military international player for Wales and was named by the BBC as one of the top 100 most influential females in the world in their 100 Women list. She was also the RAF Sports Awards Sportswoman of the Year.

She has worn the captain’s armband for the Welsh Sevens, 15s and U20s, representing her country at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

She was vice-captain for the RAF Women’s first Inter-Services championship win in 2019 and played for

Williams raised profile of Service women's rugby

and took it to new level

“The way she conducts herself on and off the pitch is phenomenal. The respect and esteem she is held in by other players is clear and understandable.”

90lb catch wins it for Whittaker

Matt's the carp chief

WITH 72 hours on the clock and 42 Service anglers at the ready, the RAF Carp Championship battle lines were drawn at Linear Fisheries, Oxford.

The prestigious event went the way of Chf Tech Matt Whittaker, with Sgt Dave Jones runner-up and WO Richard Cooke third, after an action-packed event held at two of the site’s lakes – St Johns and Manor Farm – with the three biggest fish total deciding the winner.

St Johns lake registered the first catches with FS Lee Wharlton taking two carp for 42lb 8oz, while Cpl Liam Rawcliffe weighed in with 29lb 2oz for a great start.

Sgt Andy Goddard was next on the scoreboard, with a 24lb 8oz carp and new Personal Best.

Things were slower over on Manor Farm, with Sgt Jones opening his account a few hours later with a 36lb catch, followed by a 20lb carp, putting him on 56lb 6oz to take an early overall lead. Also on Manor, WO Cooke landed a 23lb

RAF Carp Champs

1st:

2nd:

3rd:

6oz carp, while Chf Tech Whittaker added a 22lb carp to open his account.

Strong winds then hampered the anglers, as the event entered its first morning, making catches rare.

The next 24 hours saw the lead alternate as the weather calmed, with Jones and Cooke exchanging the lead before Whittaker, across the way, hooked a carp weighing 33lb 12oz. After repositioning his rod, he then caught another large carp weighing 33lb 4oz.

A brace of 33lb carp for 67lb

Hat-trick Wycombe on a High at Halton

IT WAS game, set and match for the RAF High Wycombe badminton team at the Inter-Stations event at Halton for the third year in a row.

The annual two-day competition is always wellattended and features players of all abilities from air bases across the country.

The High Wycombe team –comprised of male and female military and civil service players –was one of the outfits that progressed swiftly through the rounds.

A spokesperson said: “The team was faced with some stiff opposition, including RAF Badminton representative players from other units, but through skill and determination we were able to win our league.

“In the final we came up against a very strong Benson team and the ensuing matches were keenly fought, with the result all square following the men’s and mixed doubles games.”

Despite strong competition, High Wycombe went on to secure victory and the championship.

LUKA WAYCOTT

Amy takes it to the line

HAT-TRICK HERO: Fg Off Amy Cokayne triumphantly emerges from another maul, ball in hand

Daniel Abrahams

A hat-trick of tries and an impressive 74 minutes of powerful play from Fg Off Amy Cokayne was sadly not enough to get the Red Roses over the line.

A 13th-minute try saw Cokayne perform her now well-honed collect and drive through a maul before touching down for 14-0. But a red card for England’s Lydia Thompson in the 17th minute followed by a try a minute later for Black Fern Georgia Ponsonby proved the eventual nail in the coffin for the Red Roses.

A Marlie Packer try and a huge pick and drive in the 32nd minute from the RAF star made it 2414 but the Kiwis

took advantage of the extra woman to level and then lead, 26-29.

Cokayne charged up her teammates once again for England’s final score in the 54th minute but 20 minutes later Ayesha Leti-l’iga ran in for 34-31 to the Ferns, ending the World Cup dream for the Red Roses.

Speaking to RAF News on the long plane journey home, a bitterly disappointed Fg Off Cokayne thanked the Service and all the fans for their support. “It made a huge difference,” she said. “Sport can be cruel and playing the Black Ferns in a full Eden Park was always going to be tough; however,

going down to 14 players early in the game made it much more difficult.

“We stuck in there and gave ourselves the chance to win it at

the death but unfortunately it wasn’t to be. Credit to New Zealand for closing out the game.”

Amy said she was delighted the tournament had raised the profile of the women’s game so much.

“Lots of girls can now see a future as a rugby player and there is genuine excitement for where this momentum can take women’s sport,” she added.

“We go again at a home World Cup in three years, fingers crossed it’s third time lucky for me then.”

There was praise from Service director of women’s rugby union

Gp Capt Mark Jackson. He said: “England and Fg Off Amy Cokayne have been truly outstanding. Thirty games unbeaten, capped with a hattrick delivering performance at the Rugby World Cup final; all of us from RAF Rugby Union could not be prouder of what Amy and the Red Roses have achieved.

“I hope England’s performance inspires more woman and girls to pick up a ball and give rugby union a go. I also hope that this further inspires the British people to get behind women’s sport.

“We look forward to welcoming Amy and the other RAF international World Cup players [Fg Off Carys Williams, Wales and Fg Off Sarah Bonar, Scotland] back to the UK over the coming days, as we invite all within the Service community to come and watch our international stars as they compete for the Inter-Services Championship in 2023.”

pages of the best of RAF Sport action

"Here's one I made earlier"

Ex-Blue Peter legend turned panto stalwart Duncan back with his new online show

IT’S NEARLY panto time – oh yes, it is – and fans of the genre have a treat in store, thanks to former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan.

Peter, who had two stints as a presenter of the legendary children’s TV show in the 1980s, has written, directed and starred in online versions of Cinderella and Jack and the Beanstalk. They can be viewed now and his latest, Pantoland, in which he plays Dame Dolly Doughnut, will be available from December 2.

He said: “Pantoland is a bit different from the other two. Certain panto stories, Aladdin, Peter Pan and Red Riding Hood, are weaved in through Dame Dolly, in the company of puppets, scary monsters and with songs to sing along to.

“And there’s a story involving a burglar trying to steal a cherry pie from Dame Dolly’s bakery that King Charles III wants for his coronation. That’s the joy of panto – you can add contemporary references so grown-ups can enjoy it as well as youngsters.”

The idea for online pantos came about as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, so audiences, Peter explained, including schools, community groups and care homes, wouldn’t miss out on

Film Review

The Bridgerton effect

ADAPTED BY Suzanne Allain from her bestselling novel of the same name, Mr. Malcolm’s List is a lavish romantic period comedy that’s close to a parody of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice Zawe Ashton (Fresh Meat) stars as the delightful but scheming Julia Thistlethwaite in this lively Regency-era story with colourblind casting that co-stars Freida Pinto (Slumdog Millionaire) as her beautiful but naive best friend Selina Dalton, a poor clergyman’s daughter.

When she fails to meet an item on his list of 10 requirements for his ideal bride, Julia is jilted by London’s most eligible bachelor, the handsome but arrogant Honorable Jeremy Malcolm (Sopé Dìrísù, Gangs of London).

Humiliated, furious and determined to get revenge, she convinces the initially reluctant Selina to play the role of his ideal match. Soon, Mr Malcolm wonders whether he’s found the perfect woman… or the perfect hoax.

Although not exactly frivolous – despite the dialogue clanging in places, as when Julia declares to Selina in very 21st century style ‘you’ve made it’ – it’s an enjoyable but somewhat slight and predictable drama with the ‘Bridgerton effect’ to the fore.

Ashton is stand-out excellent as the spiky Julia, with more than a passing similarity to Austen’s Lizzie Bennett, and Oliver Jackson-Cohen (Emily) is highly watchable as Julia’s cousin Lord Cassidy, coerced by her into taking part in the scheme.

the traditional seasonal fun when theatres were closed.

He played Ugly Sister Billie Eyelash in Cinderella in 2020 and Jack in 2021’s Jack and The Beanstalk, described as ‘a planet-saving pantomime with a really big giant.’

He added: “All three pantos have a huge environmental aspect to them, all the references reflect into that territory because young people are passionate about it.”

With more than 50 years’ experience as an actor – he joined the National Theatre aged 17 – his films include Stardust and Quilt, and he’s appeared in many TV series. His most famous role came just before he joined Blue Peter – in the 1980 film Flash Gordon

he played ‘Young Treeman’, a character who met a grisly death after having his hand bitten off by an alien. When he left Blue Peter in 1984 he was given the alien that attacked him.

Peter then starred in musicals including Barnum and Me and My Girl, and more recently he’s appeared in tours of an adaptation of the World War I novel Birdsong and in the ghost story When Darkness Falls

The former Chief Scout is well known for relishing a challenge and his memorable Blue Peter experiences include fighting a sumo wrestler in Japan, cleaning the clock face of Big Ben, running the London Marathon in just over

three hours and flying a Wellington bomber over Blackpool (his fatherin-law Fg Off Ronald France was a Spitfire test pilot in World War II).

He even made a series, Duncan Dares, which involved stunts such as driving across the Irish Sea in a VW Beetle and acting as James Bond’s stuntman. But his most recent challenge involved getting dressed up as Dame Dolly.

He said: “The costumes are great fun but sticking eyelashes on is a pain – it’s not something I’d like to do every day.”

Pinto and Dìrísù have good chemistry as the will-they won’tthey couple and Theo James (The Time Traveler’s Wife) is perfectly cast as Selina’s potential suitor, the dashing Captain Henry Ossory. The film’s fabulous locations (set

in London and Kent, it was filmed mainly in Ireland) and costumes by Pam Downe, are sumptuous –if you’re a Bridgerton fan, you’ll probably love Mr. Malcolm’s List 4 out of 5 roundels

Review by Tracey Allen

l

A family ticket for all three pantos is £15 with groups and schools packages also available. Go to: pantoonline.co.uk for details.

Win!

WE HAVE a copy of Mr. Malcolm’s List on DVD to win – for your chance to own it, tell us: Who wrote the bestselling book on which the film is based? Email your answer, marked Mr. Malcolm’s List DVD competition, to: competitions@ rafnews.co.uk or post it to: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, HP14 4EL, to arrive by December 2. Please include your full postal address with all competition entries.

Award-winning 'Dylan' musical

THE AWARD-winning production of Girl From the North Country, written and directed by celebrated playwright Conor McPherson, with music and lyrics by Bob Dylan, is on its first UK tour.

The show is described as ‘an uplifting and universal story about family and love which boldly reimagines Dylan’s legendary songs, like you’ve never heard them before.’

It’s 1934 in the heartland of America and we meet a group of wayward souls who cross paths in a time-weathered guesthouse. Standing at a turning point in their lives, they realise nothing is what it seems. As they search for a future, and hide from the past, they find themselves facing unspoken truths about the present.

The musical’s Broadway production has received seven Tony Award nominations. At its opening, Dylan said: “To be associated with Conor is one of the highlights of my professional life. It goes without saying the man is a genius for putting this thing together and I’m thrilled to be a part of the experience. My songs couldn’t be in better hands.”

In McPherson’s opinion, the show’s appeal is simple. He said: “It is the universality of Dylan’s music,

RAYMOND GUBBAY presents Varna International Ballet and Orchestra, visiting the UK for the first time in their 75-year history next month with classical performances of The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Coppélia and Giselle

The season opens at St David’s Hall, Cardiff from December 17 to 31 and the company will visit 23 other venues including Blackpool, Edinburgh, High Wycombe and Oxford, from January to March 2023.

Artistic director Daniela Dimova and music director and chief conductor Peter Tuleshkov said: “We are thrilled to be bringing our highly talented company of dancers and musicians to the UK for the very first time. We can’t wait to perform for British audiences and to bring these magical ballets to life on stage.’”

Varna State Opera was founded in 1947 by the renowned Bulgarian tenor Peter Raycheff. Galina and Stefan Yordanov were the ballet troupe’s artistic directors and choreographers for more than 25 years (1960-1985). They brought Varna Ballet to the international stage and founded the Varna International Ballet Competition in 1964. In 2010 Varna State

which is loved all over the world. He manages to distil his subjective experience into something people relate to.”

Known for haunting dramas such as The Weir and Port Authority, McPherson had never directed a musical before and found himself revelling in the novel experience.

“With a straight play, you have to make it work all the way through with just the people speaking. With a musical, someone says, ‘Would you like a blast of oxygen to give us all a break?’ and you go, ‘Yes, I would actually like that very much!”

Girl From the North Country opened at The Old Vic in July 2017 to huge critical acclaim, playing to sold out audiences, and went on to have a sold out run at the Public Theater, New York in 2018. It had a second run in the West End and the

Broadway production is currently playing at the Belasco Theatre.

How many times has Dylan seen it? McPherson said: “He’s such a mysterious person. He claims he’s seen it a few times. I know that he saw it in New York in 2018 and spoke to our cast afterwards. That first time he snuck in and sat up the back with a hoodie on. I think he

nips in and out and doesn’t make too much of a fuss.”

The show is at Milton Keynes Theatre from November 15-19 and tours around the UK until March 18, 2023.

Interview by Fiona Mountford l See: girlfromthenorth countryshow.com for more details.

Win!

Blunt's gunning

Hollywood is a fish out an English

Win!

Opera and Varna Drama Theatre were united into one cultural institute called Theatre and Music Production Centre Varna.

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to see the company perform The Nutcracker at the Swan Theatre, High Wycombe at 5.30pm on February 26, 2023, tell us: the name of Tchaikovsky’s famous fantasy ballet set on Christmas Eve which features the magical fairytale world of the Mouse-king

A: The Night Before Christmas

B: The Grinch

C: The Nutcracker

Email your answer, marked Nutcracker tickets competition, to: competitions@rafnews.co.uk or post it to: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, HP14 4EL, to arrive by December 16. l Go to: raymondgubbay.co.uk for full tour and booking details.

FALL HAS been described as ‘a heart-pounding tale of survival from the producers of 47 Meters Down where sacrifice may just be the only way out.’

For best friends Becky (Grace Caroline Currey, Shazam) and Hunter (Virginia Gardner, Halloween), life is all about conquering fears and pushing limits. But after they climb 2,000 feet to the top of a remote, abandoned radio tower in the desert, they find themselves stranded with no way down.

Now the highly trained and resourceful duo’s expert climbing skills will be put to the ultimate test as they desperately fight to survive the elements, a lack of supplies and vertigo-inducing heights – as temperatures rise and vultures begin to circle – in this adrenaline-fuelled thriller, written by Scott Mann and Jonathan Frank, directed by Mann and co-starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan.

We have copies of the film on

Blu-ray to win. For your chance to add a copy to your collection, tell us: Who co-wrote and directed Fall?

Email your answer, marked Fall Blu-ray competition, to: competitions@rafnews.co.uk or post it to: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, HP14 4EL, to arrive by December 2.

in the wild

STAR Emily Blunt heads the cast of BBC Two’s new five-part series, the epic chase Western The English.

She plays aristocratic Englishwoman Lady Cornelia Locke, who is brought together in mid-America in 1890 with a Pawnee ex-cavalry scout, Eli Whipp (Chaske Spencer).

A BBC spokesperson said: “Both of them have a clear sense of their destiny but neither is aware it is rooted in a shared past. They must face increasingly terrifying obstacles that will test them to their cores, physically and psychologically.

“But as each obstacle is overcome it draws them closer to their ultimate destination, the new town of Hoxem, Wyoming. It is here, after an investigation by the local sheriff Robert Marshall (Stephen Rea) and young widow Martha Myers (Valerie Pachner) into a series of bizarre and macabre unsolved murders, that the full extent of their intertwined history will be truly understood, and they will come face to face with the future they must live.”

Blunt's Lady Cornelia is gunning for vengeance

star Emily of water as aristocrat mid-West

explained: “The English is set in the American West of 1890, on the cusp of the frontier’s closure. It tells the story of an Englishwoman and a Native American man. In very different ways, but to equally devastating effect, both have been stripped of their identities. United, each reveals strengths the other lacks but together they have a chance to avenge themselves against their loss. So much as it’s a quest for reclamation, it’s a love story.”

On working with Blunt (A Quiet Place, Mary Poppins Returns) he said: “She read the first script and has been with me every step of the way since. What she offered to the consequent scripts and following production has been incalculable.

Beyond all that, and above it, is a performance of exquisite delicacy and strength.”

And on working with Spencer (pictured left) he added: “That Chaske managed to inhabit the elevated Western persona of a cinematic hero, historically the preserve of a

Wayne or Lancaster, Eastwood or Newman, with all the nuance and dexterity of that inheritance and for him to do so as a Native American playing a Native American felt pretty groundbreaking to all involved.”

Although set in the mid-West of the USA, the series was filmed in Spain and most of it was shot on location.

“Because I knew first-hand the locations we needed to replicate, I was already aware that Almeria (which has the famous Leone/ Eastwood sets) would not work for this Kansas/Wyoming set story. Luckily our location scout took us to a huge beef farm in Avila, outside Madrid. With the grasses, rock formations and horizontal light, it provided a perfect mythic space for this Western,” Blick explained.

Blunt described the drama as ‘Alice in a wild west Wonderland’.

She added: “Cornelia Locke arrives to seek revenge for her son’s death. She seeks the help of a Pawnee warrior played by Chaske Spencer, and together they go on this epic adventure."

She revealed: “I was sent the pilot and I knew it was a Western,

which I’d never done before, so I was compelled to read it. I read the first page and I knew I was doing it from her first monologue. I felt completely kidnapped by this world. I called my agent after page two, and said, ‘I think I’m going to be doing this show’. I was so struck by it.”

She added: “I think it’s an important story to tell because most of us go through life trying to figure out what our identity is. This is a story about identity, about reclaiming that for yourself. It’s about self-discovery, and I think everybody can identify with that. A lot of people have been through something traumatic, and valiantly stepped forward, and I think people will see themselves in these characters.”

H

er role in The English is a very physical one, involving plenty of stunts and a lot of riding.

Blunt said: “I always love the physical preparation because it puts you in the body of this person. I’d always ridden as a kid, but not to this extent, and not with this ability. I trained for four months before we did it, and I would ride two or three times a week.

“When we got to Spain, we were on horses all the time and we had the most beautiful horse master, who was like a gentle conductor and horse whisperer. The horses are so extraordinary. They’re like artists, they’re incredible. My horse, Ethos, became my little soul buddy. I was very sad to leave him. It was a beautiful relationship at the end.”

Blunt was full of praise for Spencer’s performance as Eli Whipp.

She said: “Chaske plays Eli like it’s a Paul Newman role, it’s very striking to watch him. The

character is so beautiful because he’s weighed down by sadness, he’s closed off, and she comes along and moves it all around and wakes him up. I love seeing him unfurl in that way.

“He is the kind of actor who can do nothing and you lean in, you’re riveted by him. He’s completely captivating. He’s got this stillness that was so regal and beautiful to watch.”

l The English continues on BBC Two on Thursdays at 9pm. The whole series is available to view on BBC iPlayer now.

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Deaths

AUSTIN Andrew, ex Sergeant Medical Administration. Sadly, Andrew passed away in Canada in July this year following a severe stroke from which he never fully recovered despite his courageous efforts at rehabilitation.

He will be fondly remembered by colleagues at RAF Brüggen and Aviation Medicine, Farnborough, in particular.

On his retirement, Andrew made a living in haulage satisfying a desire to drive large articulated trucks in North America.

Typically, through organ donation, he gave life to two others.

I have brought my brother’s ashes home for burial with our eldest brother in the family grave at Stubbington Cemetery in Hampshire.

Steven Austin-Vautier, Wg Cdr (Ret’d).

KIRBY David John. We are sad to announce the passing of our Dad. Born June 18, 1936, passing October 9, 2022. Served in the RAF and RAAF from 1954 until 1959. Forever in our hearts. Passed suddenly due to unforeseen circumstances. Loved father of Lorraine, Janice (deceased), Alison, Tanya and Robert. A small private family and close friends memorial service will be held. Will be greatly missed by all.

LARTER Paul (ex WOFFSupplier). Joined as a Boy Apprentice at RAF Hereford in 1957 and served for 36 years. Loved all his postings, but especially RAF Brüggen (1974-76), RAF Gutersloh (1979-82) and RAAF Laarbruch (1987-91). Passed away on October 20 with his family at his side. Husband of the late Sheila Larter, and father to Sharon (deceased), David, Mark, Carl, Kevin and Brian. He will be sadly missed. Paul’s funeral service took place at Manby Village Church at 12.30 on November 15, followed by a crematorium service at Alford.

He is survived by his two sons Simon and Sean. The best Dad anyone could ever wish for. We will miss him so much.

at Thoresby Hall, Ollerton, Notts. If interested in attending please contact Dave Beaumont on: 07538651712 or email beaumont.d@sky. com or Bob Cuss, email: rbc324@john-lewis.com.

RAF Bawdsey Reunion Association. Did you ever serve at RAF Bawdsey? If so, why not join us at our next annual reunion which will take place at Bawdsey Manor on June 3, 2023. For details please contact Doreen at doreen.bawdseyreunion@ btinternet.com or phone: 07513 301723.

Seeking

MIDDLEWEEK Colin, Sqn Ldr. It is with great sadness that I wish to inform you of the passing of our father Colin, aged 90. He joined the RAF in 1951. He then pursued a career in Air Traffic. Amongst his postings he was OC Highland Radar 1975, SATCO Shawbury 1978, then onto the ATC Examining Board 1979 to 82, RAF Liaison Officer Frankfurt 1982 to 84 He retired from the Royal Air Force as SATCO at RAF Coningsby in 1987. He continued to work for the RAF as regional manager for SERCO Sky Safe for a number of years. He lived life to the full, an avid caravaner and gardener and had a rather useful hobby of beer and wine-making. He is now at peace with his beloved wife Maureen. They were married for 67 years.

How to use our service

I am trying to trace my brother Flight Sergeant RE Lee, born in Sleights, North Yorkshire, March 1943 or 44, last known to be living in the Oxford area. He was in the signals section of the RAF. I would be grateful if he would contact me by the email address or phone number below which is in Australia, because I have an important family message for him. Please email: argemtis71@gmail.com or phone: +61266452512.

SEEKING S.J.E Adams. Number 680159, 78th Entry Halton. Call Reg Butchers: 07702 238509 or email: reg. butchers@btinternet.com

LOOKING for any members of the 47th entry TG19 Hereford 62-64. Any still about? Please contact Jim Cummins via email on: Carol_cummins@aol.com or call: 01302 532865, 07517 416702.

Reunions

THE 60th anniversary reunion of the 49th Entry 2 Sqn Clerks Boy Entrants at RAF Hereford is to be held from May 15-17, 2023

There is no charge for conventionally-worded birth, engagement, marriage, anniversary, death,in memoriam seeking and reunion notices. For commercial small ads contact Edwin Rodrigues on: 07482 571535. We cannot, under any circumstances, take announcements over the telephone. They can be sent by email to: tracey.allen@rafnews.co.uk. Please note that due to the coronavirus pandemic we are currently unable to accept notices submitted by post.

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Reasonable precautions are taken before advertisements are accepted but such acceptance does not imply any form of approval or recommendation. Advertisements (or other inserted material) are accepted subject to the approval of the publishers and their current terms and conditions. The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act. All copy is subject to the approval of the publishers, who reserve the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to them at their absolute discretion and without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice. Mail order advertisers are required to state in advertisements their true surname or full company name, together with an address from which the business is managed.

RAF CHANGI – did you serve there between 1946 -72? The RAF Changi Association (inc. HQFEAF) would like to hear from you and a warm welcome awaits you. Membership is open to all ranks, ex RAF / WRAF/ WAAF also including civilian personnel who served there. Why not join us for our 25th Annual Reunion and AGM which has been booked for the weekend of May 12 - 14, 2023 at the Delta by Marriott Hotel, Warwick, CV34 6RE? Please contact our Membership Secretary, Malcolm Flack, on: 01494 728562 or email: memsecchangi@outlook. com or visit: www.rafchangi. com for more details.

Associations

THE RAF & Defence Fire Services Association was formed in 1995 and would like to attract new members of all ranks, serving and retired. For more information and how to join please visit the website: rafanddfsa. co.uk. The RAF & DFS Association also has close links with the Museum of RAF Firefighting, visit: fire museum.uk.

IF you trained as an RAF Administrative Apprentice (or are related to one) we’d be delighted to welcome you to the RAFAA Association. Please see the website: rafadappassn.org; or contact the Membership Secretary on: 07866 085834 or the Chairman on: 01933 443673

RAF Catering WOs’ and Seniors’ Association (RAF CWO & SA): all serving or retired TG19 Warrant Officers or Flight Sergeants and all former Catering Branch Officers are invited to join the RAF CWO & SA. We meet twice yearly. For more information please get in touch with Dave Scott via email: davescott10@hotmail. co.uk.

LORD HUGH Trenchard has been appointed Branch Honorary President of the Letchworth, Hitchin and District branch of the Royal Air Forces Association.

The grandson of the ‘Father of the RAF’ Marshal of the Royal Air Force Hugh Montague Trenchard, Lord Trenchard (pictured above) served in the British Army from 1972–1980 as a Captain in the 4th Battalion, The Royal Green Jackets.

WO Shaun Griffin, the chairman of RAFA’s Letchworth, Hitchin and District branch, said: “In 2006, Lord Trenchard

became Honorary Air Commodore of 600 (City of London) Squadron RAuxAF. He also served as a member of council and trustee for our sister charity the RAF Benevolent Fund from 19912003 and again from 20062013.”

WO Griffin added: “Lord Trenchard has been a loyal supporter of the branch for many years, most recently joining the branch in our Service’s 100th anniversary celebrations back in 2018. We are delighted and hugely honoured to announce his appointment as our Branch Honorary President.”

Lord Trenchard's new role at RAFA branch Team run for Fund

A TEAM of RAF personnel have raised more than £1,500 for the RAF Benevolent Fund by running a kilometre around all the 92 stadia in the Football League.

Brize Norton-based Cpl Sam Davin was joined by colleagues Sgt Carl Evans, Cpl Aaron Lewis and Cpl Shaun Brian for the event, dubbed ‘Dash of 92’, which took place earlier this year. It involved the team travelling 3,000 miles around England and Wales and running 10km a day for eight days.

The Benevolent Fund covered costs for relocating Sam’s family to Brize Norton after his youngest son was diagnosed with autism.

Sam said: “It was a great

success. We contacted all the clubs beforehand and asked for access for our 1km run around the pitch and some memorabilia to auction off.

“We got inside more than 50 stadia and were able to run around the pitches. Others, we just ran around the outside of the ground.

“We got full stadium tours of Old Trafford, St James’s Park, Hillsborough, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and many more,” he explained.

“People were brilliant and made us feel welcome. We also had support from local RAF units.”

The event raised over £3000 for the Fund and the National Autistic Society.

Janet marks special day

A NURSE who helped provide pioneering burns treatment for injured RAF aircrew and civilians during World War II has celebrated her 100th birthday.

Janet Hunter was part of the team led by surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe which provided ground-breaking reconstructive surgery for thousands of men, women and children who suffered burns and similar injuries.

She celebrated her centenary at Royal Star & Garter in Surbiton recently, with her sons and fellow residents. Janet also became

the charity’s first resident to receive a 100th birthday card from King Charles III.

She was born in 1922 in Shanghai, China, where her father worked at a bank, and returned to England aged eight.

but instead moved to New York, where her father was based. Desperate to fulfil her ambitions, she applied for nurses training in Montreal, Canada, in 1941.

In 1938, she met her future husband Pat, who served throughout WWII and took part in the D-Day landings. The couple stayed in touch during the conflict and married in 1945.

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When war broke out in 1939, Janet wanted to train as a nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital,

Fully qualified, she returned to England in 1944, where she worked with Sir Archibald. He had been appointed as consultant in plastic surgery to the RAF in 1938 and went on to found the Centre for Plastic and Jaw Surgery at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead.

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Play tells wartime RAF story

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A spokesperson for the charity said: “On her special day, Janet enjoyed a small party with residents. She also tucked into food that she had especially requested from the Home’s chef.

“Later, her sons Philip and Andrew visited, and at the weekend Janet went out to a family party, with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.”

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WATERLOO EAST Theatre, London will be hosting a three-week run of Their Finest Hour from March 8-26, 2023 – the story of the men and women who served with the RAF during World War II.

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Conceived and written by author Steve Darlow, the play is presented through the words and eyes of those who were there, with the cast playing more than 100 characters. The show features 1940s music, songs and poetry.

Mr Darlow said: “In 2019 and 2020 we staged short development runs of Their Finest Hour at South Hill Park in Bracknell, with fantastic feedback, and were all set to take the show further afield. Alas the pandemic put paid to that.

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“I have sat with some incredible, but humble, veterans listening to their stories of the dark days in which they fought Nazism. Yet they held on to the prospect of brighter days and hope, through love and solidarity.”

The show will again be directed by Joe Malyan. He said: “The fact that it is a piece of new writing, coupled with the real-life stories of men and women, makes this production something special.”

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Go to: www.waterlooeast.co.uk for ticket details or call the box office on: 020 7928 0060.

Sport getting bigger despite losing its head (6)

Malice consumes initially righteous brownie (6)

Second letter Hedwig puts in vessel (4)

Originally Harry identifies Nagini taking suggestion (4)

Puzzle prizes are back – the winners of our Prize Crossword and Prize Su Doku puzzles will receive a recent top aviation title, so please send in your entries, to arrive by December 2. Send entries to the address printed in the adjacent Su Doku panel.

A Very British Scandal

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Solutions should be sent in a sealed envelope marked 'Su Doku' with the number in the top left-hand corner to RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP14 4UE, to arrive by December 2, 2022.

Duke and Duchess of Argyll in Very British Scandal that portrayed the riveting story of the aristocratic couple’s notorious divorce –one of the most extraordinary and brutal legal cases of the 20th century.

Famed for her charisma, beauty and style, Margaret, Duchess of Argyll, dominated the front pages as a divorcee with accusations of forgery, theft, violence, drugtaking, secret recording, bribery and an explicit polaroid picture – all played out in the white-hot glare of the 1960s media.

A Very British Scandal turns the story inside out in order to explore the social and political climate of post-war Britain, attitudes towards women, and asks

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DVD to win. For your chance to own one, simply send us the correct answer to the following question: What is the name of the aristocrat portrayed by Claire Foy in A Very British Scandal?

Email your answer, marked Scandal DVD competition, to: competitions@rafnews. co.uk or post it to: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, HP14 4EL, to arrive by December 2.