Inside this Issue: OPS/EXERCISE JHSS STN EVENTS Families Day FD/SPORT RAF Benson Wakeboarding

The official quarterly publication of Royal Air Force Benson RAF100 FLYPAST RAF BENSON DIVING

Autumn 2018 Issue 78 www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson

CONTENTS AUTUMN 2018 25 From the gladly be proved wrong again! Editor… The fantastic weather has had Publishing Team so many people out and about all around the country PUBLISHER What a summer supporting RAF100 events, Lion’s Roar is published by Lance it has been for some of which can be Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath found in this edition, and Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL #TeamBenson! hopefully more to come Tel: 01536 512624 throughout the remainder Email: [email protected] of the year. With just the Visit: www.lancepublishing.co.uk Winter edition to come Company Registration No.3253372 So much going on in so many before we say goodbye to 2018, places, and so many people writing please remember that anything you ADVERTISING MANAGER it down for all to see! This is fantastic, do, we want to know about it! If you Jayne Bailey and just what we want here at the are interested in contributing to the Tel: 01536 526677 12 Lions Roar. I must however, eat Lions Roar, please drop me an email Email: [email protected] some humble pie after the last to [email protected] and edition – England did prove me we can discuss the best way forward. DESIGNER wrong and perform brilliantly in Amanda Robinson the Football World Cup, so roll on Andy Lyes Tel: 01536 526672 the 2019 Rugby World Cup and I’ll Lion’s Roar Editor/OIC Email: [email protected]

PRINTER Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6TD Tel: 01733 390564 Email: [email protected] Contents… Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk ALL CORRESPONDENCE AND FEATURES TO… MAcr Andy Lyes, The Editor ‘Lions Roar’ RWOETU, RAF Benson, Autumn 2018 Wallingford, Oxon OX10 6AA Tel: 01491 827062 Email: [email protected] PAGE RAF100 FLYPAST PAGE STATION FAMILIES DAY 08 22

PAGE JHSS -RAF BENSON PAGE BHF SOUTH DOWNS MTB RIDE Don’t Forget! 19 20 10 25 Look out for the next PAGE PUMA FORCE GOLD STARS PAGE RAF100 WINDSOR 100 edition of Lion’s Roar which is due out in SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES: 12 26 Articles for the Lion’s Roar should December 2018 14 be submitted by email, written BENSON SUB in Microsoft Word (preferably not PAGE FLEXIBLE WORKING PAGE AQUA CLUB the latest version format) and pictures should be sent as high 14 32 quality original jpegs and attached as separate files, not embedded PAGE MPGS PUMA PULL PAGE SHOOTING THE BREEZE DISCLAIMER: in the text or reduced in size. This publication is copyright Lance Publishing 16 34 Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior PAGE WALLINGFORD PAGE WAKE BOARDING written permission of Lance Publishing Limited. SOAPBOX RACES While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Publishing 19 36 Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication PAGE PARASHURAMA PAGE PERCY & WILLY are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force OVER BENSON or the Ministry of Defence. All images © UK MoD 20 43 Crown Copyright 2016 unless otherwise stated.

4 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 5 ADMIN STN CDR’S FOREWORD

Foreword from the Station Commander... Editorial Team The 10th of July, as the main RAF100 OIC/EDITOR event, was simply amazing. Andy Lyes Ext: 7062 33 SQN REP The sense of pride in the RAF was work and therefore Flt Lt Dave Rawson palpable and support from the public unable to enjoy the 28 Sqn, Ext: 8039 extraordinary. Benson personnel day with their families! 230 SQN REP were in the thick of it throughout; However, I hope you will Flt Lt Paul Hutton reading in the Abbey, marching in agree it is worth it. I am convinced it is, 230 Sqn, Ext: 7159 the parade, leading the flypast (and and I know how much it is appreciated 28 SQN REP not forgetting providing 1/3rd of the by those who are able to relax and enjoy Flt Lt Steve Wilder Chinook element as well as the Puma something that is quite special and which 28 Sqn, Ext: 8072 element), conducting media interviews, we should not take for granted. LS REP collecting money for the RAF100 As a Station, we continue to assist George Cox OC SHF appeal, presenting the RAF100 Baton many diverse charities, relying on Ext 7427 to CAS (4 out of the 5 of the team were individuals commitment and energy; the EXPEDITION & SPORTS REP from Benson!), and the Benson team MPGS platoon’s efforts to pull a Puma the Flt Lt Sam Bacon at Horse Guards helping me to host full length of the runway raised over 2 STO, Ext: 5219 Their Royal Highnesses Prince and and a half times their original target. An BSW REP Princess Micheal of Kent. It was enough amazing effort on a hot day and setting Ms Nikki Hamilton to move even the most stoic and a a blistering time that others should SEO, Ext: 7245 fitting celebration of the Centenary. now see as a challenge! MAcrs Hunt OPS WG REP The effort was significant in what is an and Lyes rode the 100 mile Winchester Flt Lt Tom Barber extremely busy year for Benson but, I to Eastbourne South Downs Mountain 606 SQN REP hope you agree, vindicated by the good Bike Trail, raising money for the British Fg Off Will Nolan will it generated. A huge thank you to Heart Foundation. Our charity support is 606 Sqn Media, Ext: 7238 all involved! second to none, and something we can PHOTO & IMAGERY REP The quiet professionalism, I have be hugely proud of. I also thoroughly Sgt Malthouse so often spoken about, has been enjoyed watching the PDSH team receive Photo Section, Ext: 7265 AWARDED to the Military Division of the Most Honourable Order Today the School continues the ceremonial aspect and to have the recently recognised by the award of the a very well deserved ‘best design’ award CARTOONIST of the Bath in the Queen’s New Year Honour’s List, one of our parents reigning sovereign as its patron. However, while the individual is celebrated, Firmin Sword of Peace for RAF Benson’s for their mighty Puma soapbox at the FS Dave McCrindle commented ‘…it is tremendously helpful to have the support of a school the whole school unites for parades. Since its inception, students have outstanding contribution to Op RUMAN internationally acclaimed Wallingford MLO ADJ Ext 7085 that understands and is sympathetic to the demands of Service Life’. marched and there has always been a Pipes and Drums band. in the hurricane ravished Caribbean last Soapbox Race! DISTRIBUTION year. Our submission recognised all who Finally, on adventurous training Mr Tizzard, Mr Cole Certainly Gordon’s proximity to a number of military bases as Dressed in their Blues uniform the students parade eight times contributed to the success of Op RUMAN (AT) and the Sub Aqua exped article: well as Heathrow Airport and major routes across the country a year and the School is the only one permitted to march along from RAF Benson; those who helped I appreciate with the pressures and have contributed to the current roll where over 50 per cent of Whitehall – an annual tradition in remembrance of General Gordon. ensure the remarkably swift response, manpower gaps that finding time to our students are from military families. But an understanding of those who deployed and those remaining go on AT is challenging. I have suffered life in the Services is something that has been running through the All Year 10 students join the CCF (Navy, Army and Air fabric of the School since its inception over a century ago. Force) which is often continued into the Sixth Form. at Benson who provided vital reach-back from this throughout my Service career, support. It also highlighted the intimate always deciding that I was too busy to Military families have priority over others applying for a For many of the children from families in the services, Gordon’s support provided to the local community even apply. I realised that this does not place at Gordon’s. The School also employs counsellors for has been their first ‘constant’ after a life of moving schools and in the US Virgin Islands after the airport, set a good example! Having only ever them and tutors to plug any gaps in their education. homes in line with their parents’ postings around the world. It is where the Detachment was based, was been on 1½ expeds in my entire Service also a haven from the worry of a parent involved in action. directly hit by Hurricane MARIA. This career (and, being very old, that is a The success of these measures is illustrated by the statistics - Gordon’s is award recognises not just what we depressingly long time!), while always in the top one per cent nationally for achievement at GCSE and A2 Levels For Tracey Phillips, a military wife, who had moved house with her children offer Defence from Benson, but also the encouraging other to try to find the time over the last three years (90 per cent achieve A*-C Grades at A2 and 92 nine times before they returned to England, the decision on where her manner and style in which we deliver; a for AT/FD, I set myself the challenge of per cent more than five GCSEs between A*-C including English and Maths). children should be educated came down to where they felt at home. vital part of the Benson ethos. practicing what I preached…and success, However it’s not just in the classrooms where students excel, Her daughters had notched up five different schools – three in one With the Station running at such a I made it to Egypt with the Benson Sub successes are achieved in drama and the arts; debating and public academic year – across the globe, priory to boarding at Gordon’s. high tempo, it is immensely important Aqua Club! This exped reminded me of speaking; dance and sport. The school has an enviable record in “The homely feel really stood out for us” recalled Tracey. “We that we continue to look after all our the reasons we continue to push AT. I the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme - this year 21 students will felt a strong sense of family and the fact that the pastoral and personnel, both home and away. Families’ saw a strong team build from a group be going to Buckingham Palace to receive their Gold Award. teaching staff were used to working with military families so Day, as one way of giving something of disparate individuals, and individuals understood the special nature of where the kids are coming back, was yet again a resounding success push their personal boundaries and Set in over 50 acres of beautiful Surrey countryside, the School from and that they have had to move frequently.” and the centre pages show the wide grow enormously in confidence. I also is home to some 800 students and offers Residential (weekly variety of activities on offer. My sincere recognised how important it can be and termly) Boarding from only £5,378 per term. “House parents are also aware that they [children from thanks to all those involved in making it to recharge your batteries. So there’s a service family] are under extra pressure because their Originally built in 1885 by public subscription as a national memorial parents may have been posted to a war zone”. such a fantastic day. There is always the the challenge; if I can, you can (at least COVER CREDIT: SAC Amy Lupton to General Charles Gordon on the insistence of Queen Victoria, irony in delivering a day for families to try, I acknowledge that it’s not always the School was opened as a home for ‘necessitous’ boys. The idea behind Marching has added benefits for her children too: say thank you for all their support, that that easy!). it being that the boys would be trained for civil and military life. “We can see how it instils discipline and pride, and is requires large numbers of the Station to Good luck! part of what makes the school so unique.” 6 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability OPS RAF100 FLYPAST RAF100 Flypast Photographs By: Benson photo section and R&S Wg and Article By: Sqn Ldr Ian Hall As most readers will probably be aware, the RAF celebrated its 100th birthday in style on 10 July, 100 years and 100 days after its formation, with 103 aircraft performing a flypast over Buckingham Palace in front of the Royal Family, VIPs, thousands of members of the public and the world’s media.

What you may not be aware of is that the Sqn Ldr John Turner from 18(B) Squadron not have been possible without the hard flypast was led by aircraft from RAF Benson. at RAF Odiham who was deputy lead. work and dedication of the engineers, air Three Pumas from 28, 33 and 230 Several practice runs were flown in the traffic controllers, fire crews and countless Squadrons were at the front of the stream Puma simulator, which allowed Flt Lt Nick others who gave their all to get the aircraft of aircraft, closely followed by 6 Chinooks, Humble, who was the ‘Non Handling Pilot’ serviceable and airborne on the day and including one from 28 Squadron and in the lead Puma to fine-tune his plan to for the practices. All told the day was a another crewed by aircrew from R&S Wing. achieve the precise timing required. This resounding success which will no doubt Planning for the event started over was followed by an SH rehearsal flown have helped to inspire the next generation a year beforehand, coordinated by the out of Benson on 25 June, and then a full of RAF personnel while commemorating Tornado Force from RAF Marham. As the flypast rehearsal overhead College Hall all those who have gone before. plan involved multiple different types of Officers’ Mess at the RAF College Cranwell aircraft, from WW2 Spitfires and Hurricanes on 3 July where AVM Gerry Mayhew, to the brand-new F-35 Lightning II, all who was AOC 1 Gp, gave his approval for operating at different speeds, very careful the flypast to go ahead on the 10th. co-ordination was required to ensure that Tuesday 10 July dawned bright with all elements arrived over the Palace exactly a strong northerly wind being the main on time and with the required separation to issue to contend with. In the event, all of ensure that the flypast was conducted safely. the hard work and planning paid off with This involved each element (for example the formation arriving over the Palace Support helicopters(SH) and the Typhoon exactly on time straight down the Mall. It ‘100’) having to achieve a ’contract’ to be was incredible to see the sheer number of at the correct speed, height and shape people who had turned out to watch the and on time plus or minus 5 seconds for spectacle, not just on the Mall, but also in them to be able to push past their Initial school playing fields (including a group Point, a pre-designated ground feature of children forming a ‘100’!), public spaces some 15 miles to the north-east of central and rooftops throughout the route. London and take part in the flypast. Overall it was a privilege to be involved For the SH element, this meant several in such a unique event, and testament to trips to Marham in the run up to the event the skill and professionalism of all those for Sqn Ldr Ian Hall from 28 Sqn, who who took part. While the aircraft were was the overall SH formation lead, and the focus on the day, the flypast would

8 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission:Mission: To To deliver deliver Support Support Helicopter Helicopter operational operational capability capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 9 OPS/EX JHSS JHSS - RAF Benson Article By: Lt Luke Johnson The Joint Helicopter Support Squadron continues to operate across the UK and the world supporting both Exercises and Operations for a variety of units.

Heli Handling Teams are currently the Land Force and Amphibious Task and is aimed at fostering good relations deployed in the United States of America Group. A MAOT-L and HHT from JHSS between civilians and the military, and and the Falklands Islands. A team also deployed to Brittany supporting the JHSS were happy to support this effort. deployed to France supporting 27 Chinooks from 27 Sqn in Odiham on the Squadron and 3 Commando Brigade on CJFEx where 3 Commando Brigade was European Reconnaissance a Combined Joint Expeditionary Force working alongside French forces. It was MAOT Ls have a duty to re-validate all (CJEF). Highlights of the last few months a great opportunity for the Sqn to work AIDU landing sites in the UK and abroad, was the RAF Scottish Cadet Muster alongside both different arms of the UK and thus deployed with soldiers from the where JHSS facilitated over 1400 people Armed Forces and foreign militaries. HHTs to Germany, Austria and Norway. flying in RAF aircraft and supported One team covered the Scandinavian sites the crews in a manner of taskings. Exercise KIWI CLEAN whilst the other covered Germany and The MAOT Leaders have also been Years ago, the government of New Zealand Austria. After a week of driving across busy revalidating UK and European landing sponsored a giant chalk kiwi on the side multiple countries, aircrew can rest easy sites in order to maintain JHC operational of a hill near Bulford on Salisbury Plain. knowing that Europe is safe to land in. capability, including driving the length The site has degraded over the years of Norway and across Germany and and required some new chalk so that it Change in Command Austria to check sites across Europe. may stand might and around over the Major Tom Shaw left the Sqn after two Perhaps most importantly, there local environs. Enter the Chinook force years serving as the OC. His work in has been a change in command of the and JHSS. Under relentless sun, JHSS command of the Sqn has seen it grow Squadron with Major Shaw leaving conducted underslung loading operations in both reach and ability and he will be and Major Andrews arriving. of 50 tonnes of chalk which was flown missed by all. Replacing him is Major onto the kiwi site in just 1.5 short hours. Emmit Andrews (RLC) who comes to Ex CATAMARAN 18 us from DE&S and is keen to start his Ex CATAMARAN 18 was a French led RAF Scottish Cadet Muster tenure as Officer Commanding JHSS. Combined Joint Expeditionary Force A small team travelled to Scotland to (CJEF) Amphibious Exercise between 1-15 provide flying briefs and passenger Jun 18 near La Rochelle and Quiberon handling duties to over 1400 cadets and Bay in Western France. It was the first cadet staff in order to facilitate smooth opportunity since the inception of operations and reduce pressure on the the CJEF to incorporate a UK/FR 1* aircrew. This outreach is a standard Amphibious staff with the aim of validating programme for all branches of the military

JHSS on Ex CATAMARAN 18.

10 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability OPS 33 SQN

This was only released to the crews on the morning of the second day from the Station Intelligence Officer. More of the same skills as the previous day but this time with some Puma Force GOLD STARS interesting training staff inputs using the Article By: Flt Lt Niall Davidson. JHSS members on the ground to simulate threats. A busy and challenging day for the crews but one that all involved got a great deal of training benefit from and all Moving troops around a training area or operational theatre has, and the crews truly enjoying the experience. There will many more Gold Star always will be an essential part of the tasking that the Puma Force carries events to follow, testing a wide range of out, and over two days at the end of July aircrew from 33 Squadron and skills for the crews and supporting units from across RAF Benson and beyond. 230 Squadron paired up with 2 Parachute Regiment (2 Para) to carry out training on Salisbury Plain Training Area as part of a Gold Star event.

The idea of creating Gold Star events different handling characteristics and the up to height and give support to the troops every two to three months was introduced crewman have a full cabin to work with. The or go and insert a second checkpoint. by the Puma Force to see the aircrew ground troops gain a great deal also from After a successful day the crews test themselves in a variety of skills and the air experience and the drills needed returned to Benson to reset for the next day challenging environments set within to quickly disembark from the Puma. involving a full scenario. a complex scenario like one the crews Once complete with the Air Assault may experience while on exercises, practice it was onto carrying out Eagle deployments and operations. Vehicle Checkpoint. This involves the Puma A busy couple of days that had aircrew working with the troops to set up started well before with the training checkpoints around the area to carry out team liaising with the ground troops and vehicle checks. Once the location of the other squadrons who would aid with checkpoint is agreed by both the crew the training events. Benson’s own Joint and the troops in the cabin, the Puma Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) was will descend from height and drop the also involved providing vehicles and troops next to the set-up point for the drivers to add realism to the event. checkpoint. The Puma will then climb back The morning of the first day was spent with the crews planning, preparing the aircraft and briefing the sorties for the afternoon. The advantage of carrying out the training over two days meant that there were lots of opportunities to go out, practice, debrief and then repeat and training requirements before taking what had been learnt into the next serial. The first sorties were focused around low level flying in formation and included carrying out simulated air assaults on building pre-determined as targets. Once onto Salisbury Plain the crews met up with the troops from 2 Para and practiced similar air assault skills on the training area. Having troops in the aircraft always helps with the training as it increases the all up weight of the Puma and helps the crews become familiar with the

12 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 13 WELFARE FLEXIBLE WORKING

the Service - a mistake that the Service’s examples can often be easily granted 1700 on most stations); for example you recruitment and selection process will without a need to record the short absence might start at 0630 and finish 1530, or start Flexible Working; it’s a Team Sport struggle to offset. Striving to change the from the workplace, where as Flexible at 1000 on Mondays and finish at 1900, way in which we all think about where the Working arrangements are long-standing then on Friday start at 0600 to finish 1500 Article By: Flight Lieutenant Merlin Andrew working environment exists is one method agreements between you and your CoC to help you have a less stressful commute of tackling these antiquated approaches that are registered and reviewed on JPA2. to and from home at the weekend. A Senior In April 2019, Flexible Service (FS) will introduce a pioneering method of for positive affect, and by that; I mean Though it is not a right to be permitted Aircraftman based at RAF Wittering who recognising that work can include home, to adopt a Flexible Working arrangement, enjoys Variable Start/Finish Times, informed allowing Armed Forces personnel to adjust their daily commitment to or a café, or a park, or occupy a different every CoC is obliged to assist where us that ‘as a result of the MOD providing the Services or operational deployability with an accompanying and fair space in time to that which we usually possible. In particular circumstances, it myself with flexible working arrangements, associate with ‘normal working hours’. might be that your full request cannot be I have been able to help support my family reduction to their remuneration package (pay & pension). In comparison, the more tangible met, but a partial solution can be sought. with collecting my kids from school/ barriers to Flexible Working, such as a lack of The key to making any arrangement nursery’s and taking them to Gymnastics’, laptop’s or the need to be co-located with work is good communication and a bit all in support for my wife enabling her to Whilst for some this policy change will conflict through offering family-friendly of the team despite working remotely, from equipment (aircraft), whilst can be equally of flexibility between both the Chain of attend staff meetings at work. Having the represent a long-awaited opportunity to policies such as flexible working practices. home, or at a different time of day. These as preventative as negative attitudes, Command and the Service person. chance to support my family with flexible make significant changes to their working Wielding such a strong case, it is clear that managerial behaviours if repeated to the are perhaps more tolerable. Due to the In terms of what’s on offer, working patterns has helped free up our life, for others there remains a strong the RAF must ingrain Flexible Working point of becoming the norm can helpfully structural nature of the Service; in that the there are three main types of Flexible busy lives. I highly recommended to anyone demand for other ways in which to strike into the fabric of the organisation and subside the comfort blanket of having majority of us are posted every few years, Working, which are defined as; working who has kids and or a busy working life style that fine balance between work and support personnel wishing to undertake people constantly present whilst also it’s possible that where Flexible Working Compressed Hours, Variable Start/ to look into flexible working.” In addition, life. Thankfully, through a very different a different working pattern wherever building the flexibility of people’s lives into cannot work in one posting there are Finish Times, and Working From a Squadron Leader who works Variable variety of RAF policies, Flexible Working feasible. With this in mind, it is easy to see the success of the Team. To aid our progress opportunities to be posted into a position Home (or anywhere else for that matter). Start/Finish Times at RAF High Wycombe is available for all RAF personnel to assist how beneficial flexible working can be in this regard we can learn a great deal where the physical constraints to Flexible Here’s a quick introduction to each: and other add-hoc arrangements said that in adjusting the working week without for both the individual and the Service. from observing the results of businesses Working are not as equally prevalent. Compressed Hours essentially means ‘starting work earlier than the Headquarters taking a hit on the annual salary. In other However, to monopolise such opportunities, squeezing the hours that you normally normal working hours is fantastic, it means words, you can think of Flexible Service The Commanding Officer’s and changes in circumstances (including work into fewer days, in order to reduce I can finish work early to beat the busy (FS) as working less for less, and think Challenge and Cultural Change increasing IT availability) the default the number of hours worked on another Buckinghamshire commute to my SFA of Flexible Working (FW) as working the With ever present fast paced and position of the leadership must be geared day(s), often to have a longer weekend. A quarter some distance away and get to same but differently, and that ‘differently’ dynamic operational demands the RAF, towards facilitating Flexible Working Full-Time Reserve Service Squadron Leader my evening class on time. I am also lucky is on your terms. The RAF’s formula for above all, must be prepared to meet its applications rather than saying ‘no’, at RAF Wittering who works Compressed enough to have a work phone and use of Flexible Working has been enabled by operational commitments. Historically because after all, culture trumps policy. Hours said: ‘Prior to FW, because of the the Team’s laptop for the odd occasion that holding people at the very core of what the Services modus operandi in reactively Often this involves taking some risk, trying relentless nature and variety of tasks coming I need to work from home. Having such we do, and resulting in policies that dealing with tasks as they arise has some new methods of working, and into my office, coupled with persistent flexibility means that Serving in the RAF is are competitive, or often better than necessitated having an abundance of making tough decisions; but of course manpower shortages, I was working over part of my life, rather than it being my life civilian equivalents – proven by having personnel on-hand for immediate use, we can do that, right? That’s why we have 50+ hours per week with the expectation in total.’ recently scooped three titles at Working thereby limiting the amount of flexibility such as Patagonia, who’s founder, Yvon been employed as military leaders…? from an external organisation that I would Families’ Best Practice Awards 2018. that our people can incorporate into their Chouinard, ingrained Flexible Working always be available to resolve issues. I was Working From Home, working from home into the fabric of his company: “Our policy “Why on earth would anyone run a working days. Whilst in many situations Who Is It For and What’s on Offer? getting home on a Friday evening in a really means working anywhere remotely; a has always allowed employees to work company that was hard to work for?” this approach to work is unavoidable, the So, who is it for and what’s on offer? zombie-like state; often requiring the whole wifi hotspot, your home, or another military flexible hours, as long as the work gets Yvon Chouinard - founder of section/flight/squadron/wing commanders’ Whilst it is recognised that the uptake of weekend to recover to merely start again on establishment that is perhaps a bit closer done with no negative impacts on others. Patagonia and Black Diamond, challenge in enabling flexible working is Flexible Working is often centred around Monday; which gave me no proper family or to your house, it really doesn’t matter so Employees take advantage of this policy business philosopher and author to disassociate the physical presence of child care arrangements and travelling to leisure time. FW allows me to concentrate long as the venue is safe and applicable to catch a good swell, or go bouldering of Let My People Go Surfing. people with their traditional place of work and from home, really anyone can use it. and package my work into 4 days (Mon- your work’s security requirements. In this by becoming masters of the technology at for an afternoon, pursue an education, or Whether you look after an elderly relative, Thurs) allowing tasks to be completed but instance, more often than not, you may Why Flexible Working? our disposal to maintain the type of contact get home in time to greet the kids when or simply want to tailor your working day provides additional time to recuperate require access to MODNet or the IT system 70% of the Armed Forces Continuous that they would expect if when they they climb down from the school bus.” around a hobby or sport, Flexible Working and enjoy weekends with my family. My that you are familiar with at work. Where Attitude Survey 2018 respondents indicated shared a hangar or an office. Skype, VTC, The subsequent affect of such is here to help. To be clear, Flexible Working overall health has benefitted noticeably it’s not always easy to acquire a MODNet that as a result of serving they experienced and mobile phones are all useful tools for managerial practice undoubtedly provides in the strictest sense differs from ad- in the short period I have been on FW.’ laptop from your unit, you can use your an adverse impact on their family and contacting flexible working subordinates, the foundations for organisational change hoc arrangements that I would defined Variable Start/Finish Times is a own IT to access the MOD Dropbox via the personal life, which was subsequently towards working culture, which at present, as nipping to the garage to drop your great method of taking your working day Defence Gateway, which will allow you to increasing their intention to leave. This in the RAF, is often reliant upon ‘presentee car off for a service, or finishing early on when you like it. So instead of working work on documents remotely. Alternatively, situation is exacerbated by a strong financial ism’ that can lead to people in positions of the odd occasion to hit the road. Such normal working hours (normally 0800 – if the classification of your work allows, climate with a high prospect of civilian responsibility to frown upon those daring you could take printed material with you employment in private sector companies, to want anything but the Monday to Friday to read, which of course depends largely which have remoulded their business 0800 – 1700 Station-based working pattern. on the type of work you undertake. A models to embrace flexible working and For this reason, it is perhaps unsurprisingly Corporal working in Personnel Services are subsequently reporting increases in that when confronting a particular cohort Flight at RAF Honington said that ‘working workforce productivity. Moreover, research of mid-level commanders about their two days from home has been enabled has proven that high work-life conflict approach to Flexible Working applications, me to achieve a new work-life balance, is associated with work stress, turnover that their responses included ‘If I allow one I am back to my best self. I feel a new intentions, actual turnover, and poor health; person to have Flexible Working everyone lease of life; the long mid-week travel whereas lower conflict is associated with will want it...’ and ‘it’s not the Services fault home and back to support my young greater job satisfaction, organisational and ideally as a matter of routine rather that they own a house in the South of and growing family has been reduced. commitment, job performance and than in necessity. Frequent contact via England, why should they have compressed My output has seen a resourceful organisational citizenship behaviours. these means can suffice to be assured that hours to travel home early on a Friday…’ increase both at home, at work and with my Simply put, it is in our interests to the task in question is in hand, whilst also Both of which are evidently saddening MSc studies. I feel valued, empowered and minimise work-life conflict where possible. ensuring that the subordinate feels that attitudes to come across, that will in some reinvigorated to progress with my career Organisations can mitigate against work-life they are still responsible, valued, and part cases result in personnel choosing to leave without the worry of family instability.’

14 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 15 STN CHARITY MPGS PUMA PULL MPGS (RAF Benson) Puma Pull 2018 Article By: LCpl Michael Russell and Photographs By: RAF Benson Photo Section. Has a helicopter been pulled down the runway before?

This is the question which sparked a fact raised £1300! We were all blown Gisby, Cpl Jeff Paine, LCpl Dean Millward, chain of events which led us to the away by everyone’s generosity. LCpl Peni Waqalevu, LCpl Dil Subba, LCpl MPGS Puma Pull held on the morning I would like to take the opportunity Bikram Gurung, Pte Lokendra Gurung, Pte of 15th June 18 at RAF Benson. to thank everyone in the Platoon and the Ram Bura and Pte Hem Rai. Without your Back in October 2017, Myself and a Station who helped to make this event hard work and dedication this amazing few colleagues in the Platoon were sat such a success. Special thanks to Sgt Chris achievement would never have happened. in the Guard room discussing ideas for the Platoons next charity venture, and how it would be bigger than anything done previously. From this discussion we began to set the wheels in motion. We decided on the Footsteps Foundation as our chosen charity which provides intensive rehabilitation for children and young adults with cerebral palsy, genetic disorders, epilepsy, other neurological and neuromotor disorders. The weather was perfect for the event as we made our way down the airfield. Spirits were high, with banter amongst the guys, as we continued to make good progress. On the ascent of the runway, banter then turned into words of encouragement and determination. Finally, the finish line was in sight. Spurred on by this everyone gave one last monumental burst of effort crossing the line strongly. Completing 1.8km in 22 minutes. We had initially set out to raise £500, a very respectable target we thought…only to find out we had in

16 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability P2MF SOAPBOX RACING STN ENGAGEMENT

THE FRAMING STUDIO We frame your photographs, Wallingford Soapbox Race prints, watercolours, oils, certificates, medals Article By: SAC(T) Tristian Stay and MAcr Lyes and Photographs By: Stn Cdr and needlework. Imagine the recipe – Take one glorious evening in July, add an RAF100 What do you want framing? Ask us, you may be surprised! engagement brief from the Station Commander, mix in 48 hours of building, We stock a large selection of frame mouldings a sprinkling of wheels and copious amounts of cardboard, paper mache and and mountboard. chicken wire. We also sell mirrors, ready made frames and Glaze liberally with glue and paint, then the chicane, round the hair pin bend (just, framing accessories. decorate proudly with RAF 100 transfers in some cases!) and down the final slope, and present to the massed crowds of finishing by crashing through a wall of onlookers for the Wallingford Soapbox cardboard boxes, the P2MF soapbox was Race. This is exactly what Cpls Rhys a magnificent sight. Driven superbly by Opening Times 126b Broadway Murray, Tom Coles and SAC(T) Tristian Tristian and chased by Rhys and Tom (in Monday: closed Didcot Stay, all of P2MF fame actually did! case of emergency or crash!) the team Tuesday: 9.00 - 17:00 OX11 8AB After extensive testing and did an amazing job throughout the day. Wednesday: 9.00 - 17:00 01235 815934 development, and with the final decorative They were presented with their medals, Thursday: 9.00 - 17:00 touches and large RAF100 transfers and met by the Station Commander Friday: 9.00 - 17:00 www.framingstudiodidcot.co.uk applied, it was time to travel to the race! for some photographs. Judging by Saturday: 9.00 - 13:00 [email protected] Arriving at 12 o’clock, all 3 engineers the teams smiles I suspect this will not Sunday: closed Facebook: The Framing Studio Didcot showed the crowd around their creation, be the only time that an RAF Benson much akin to a Pit Lane walkabout at team enters this incredibly fun event! the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Visited by the Huge thanks to the Station 10% forces discount offered on Station Commander, offering last minute Engagement team for their support pep talks and advice, the race was soon throughout this event! production of valid ID card or in uniform. to be on. Run on a very hot July evening, and with huge crowds massed on the main bridge leading into Wallingford, all were awaiting a hotly contested event due to start at 6pm. Dustbins, a carrot and even the Back to the Future Delorian all raced with style and speed, however • Family run business the main event was yet to occur. Before the soapbox sets off a small performance • Prices to suit by the crew is completed to engage the all budgets crowd and judging by the noise at the start, the race was to be a fantastic event. • Free estimates Launched from the back of a truck on and quotations Wallingford bridge, then smartly through • Wood, Laminate, Vinyl and Karndean • Free Fitting on most carpets

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 19 STN EVENT INDIAN AIRFORCE DAKOTA Parashurama over Benson Article By: Flt Lt Si Frost In March this year, the Benson circuit reverberated to the magnificent roar of two Pratt & Whitney radial piston engines as a Douglas DC3 Dakota arrived at RAF Benson.

The aircraft, belonging to the Indian control aircraft fitted with detergent Air Force Vintage Aircraft Flight (IAF spray booms to contain oil spillage at sea. VAF), had undergone a restoration by Withdrawn from use in 2003, she languished Reflight Airworks to its full former glory for a few years before being bought by Mr and sported a new paint scheme in Chandrasekhar for donation to the IAF VAF. the guise of an Indian Air Force aircraft Now she is fully restored and painted as from 1947. The project was funded by VP905, the tail number of the first Indian Air a member of Indian parliament, Mr Force Dakota that transported the Indian Rajeev Chandrasekhar, whose father, Air Army’s 1st Sikh regiment into battle on Commodore M K Chandrasekhar, flew 27 Oct 47 during the Indo - Pakistan War, Dakotas for the Indian Air Force in the 40s, just months after India’s independence. 50s and 60s. With the formidable plan to fly the restored aircraft all the way to Sunset in Muscat – photo Alex Woodeson. India, RAF Benson was chosen to host the Dakota during a short period of running- and Hawker Tempest before moving into before transitioning onto the trickier Tiger Finals to Benson. in and maintenance flights before the the jet-age with a de Havilland Venom. Moth and much more powerful Harvard. engineers cleared her for the epic voyage. Some of you will know that this is The first two student pilots were trained On 12 Apr 18 RAF Benson also provided not the first time the Indian Air Force has over a four-week period in 2015; a second a media facility and hosted members been to RAF Benson. So, what is it that batch following in 2017. Another batch keeps them coming back? Owing to a lack of students is expected to pass through of the Indian High Commission, Indian Parashurama in a previous life – photo Mick West. Air Commodore Anil Sabharwal VSM Air Force and journalists from local and – photo SAC Amy Lupton. of suitable training aircraft and qualified Benson’s gates in the not too distant future. international aviation media for the formal She also bears the name Parashurama, instructors in India, the UK MoD offered on 26 April 18. RAF Benson helped further handover ceremony between Reflight the name of the eternal warrior known in support with training and so the RAF were Here’s to the links between us and India with the loan military safety equipment Airworks Ltd and the Indian Air Force. Hinduism as the sixth avatar of Vishnu who, approached to get the Vintage Aircraft becoming stronger and stronger. such as a life-raft and jackets. The loan This actual aircraft has had a long according to legend, appears at a time Flight off the ground. Originally the BBMF of these items offered an increased level history; initially serving with the US Army Air when overwhelming evil prevails on earth. were to support this request but with of insurance given the number of over Corps as a C-47B, 44-76488, before joining On 14 Apr 18 Parashurama departed insufficient resources to take on the task, With a hangar friend – photo Alex Woodeson. sea transits the aircraft flew on route. the RAF as Dakota MkIV, KN397 in Mar 45. the UK bound for India. The mammoth a contract was put in place with Reflight- The Indian Air Force decided to create Post-war she went onto the civilian register journey included 13 stopovers in France, Airworks Ltd who are also contracted a Vintage Aircraft Flight along the lines of as G-AMSV and through a succession of Italy, Greece, Egypt, Jordan, Dubai and to restore all the Indian aircraft to flight. our own BBMF to recognise the immense owners before ending it’s working life Oman before arriving to rapturous applause By a quirk of fate, the pool of suitable aviation history of the nation. The Dakota is with Air Atlantique as a maritime pollution at her new home at IAF Hindan, New Dehli taildragger training aircraft is in South the latest aircraft to join the Flight and now England. This fact allied to the desire to Benson to India. shares hangar-space with a de Havilland engender a military ethos and environment Tiger Moth and a North American Harvard to the training meant that Benson was the all under Indian Air Force registrations prime choice for the base of ops. Training En route to India – photo Alex Woodeson. and regulations. The Flight is designed to starts off in a relatively simple Piper Cub mirror the BBMF model which has been successfully engineering and flying WWII Arrival at Benson – photo SAC Amy Lupton. aircraft for over 60 years. In the next three to five years, plans are in place to restore a Supermarine Spitfire, Hawker Hurricane

Over the Alps - photo by Alex Woodeson.

Home at last – photo Alex Woodeson.

20 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 21 STN EVENT STATION FAMILIES DAY Station Families Day Photographs By: SAC Amy Lupton and & Cpl Tony Hawke.

22 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 23 CHARITY EVENT FD/ EVENT CHARITY

Saturday 14th July saw the two Andy’s, MAcr Hunt and Lyes take on the British Heart Foundation’s hardest

• Excellent Hacking Lower Farm is challenge The 100 Mile, South Downs way mountain • 24 hour supervision Contact: about 9 miles south Sue Clayton • 25 acres of Oxford, in the bike ride. Lower Farm, Berrick Salome Thames Valley • All year round turnout available Wallingford, Oxfordshire and its within easy BHF • Floodlit all-weather arena OX10 6JL reach of a large • Small or large paddocks [email protected] 07768 721241 network of bridle • DIY or part livery Starting at 04:30 from Winchester energy we had wasted during the first South East that day we battled against 01865 891073 paths, including • Friendly atmosphere Andy 1&2 set off on what was to 40+ miles pushing bikes up hills and the elements and the gruelling terrain! easy access to the • Plenty of parking for Horseboxes Ridgeway become a gruelling days riding! From plodding along due to the gearing issues. Post ride we assessed the water intake the start to CP1 was a mere 27 miles, Arriving at CP7 they told us they to be approximately 15 litres each! Hacks, Hunters, Ponies, Competition Horses and Hobby Horses, Ridden, driven or retired – we can accommodate them all. at approximately mile 20, Andy Lyes were closing! A quick fill-up with water We would like to thank the BHF snapped the rear derailleur from his and ram as much food in the mouths as for a great event, friends and family mountain bike potentially ending his possible we pushed hard on to CP8. The who have donated to the fantastic day before breakfast had even been hills were actually becoming even steeper cause of the British Heart Foundation digested! Whisked off to the repair man, and harder at every turn but along with and to Mrs Hunt for putting up with us ALLAWAY Andy H pressed on the trail trying to that came some dramatic downhill runs, grumping on the way around, feeding regain some lost time. Arriving at CP1 great fun when not tired, but now an issue us and for putting up with our smelly AUTO ENGINEERS the news that the repair man had simply as the tiredness reduced our reaction bodies in the car on the way home! M.O.T. TESTING SERVICING & fixed the bike in one gear was not music times! A few close shaves, but all was If this article prompts anyone to to the ears! A long slog was ahead. good; we were still hanging on in there! donate, the Just giving page is still open MECHANICAL REPAIRS & TYRES CP2 came and went, too high a gear CP8 was the last chance to fill up under Andrew Hunt, or you could donate CLASS 1 & 2 MOTORCYCLE MOTs for the steep hills, and too low a gear to and get some salts on board to fight off straight to the BHF themselves. Finally, NOW AVAILABLE regain time on the flat and downhill, we the ever present cramp, for what seemed our exploits should not deter anyone £10 DISCOUNT ON MOTs TO RAF PERSONNEL only managed to average about 5mph, to be the longest 10 miles ever! Starting thinking of taking on the challenge, I will a slow chug compared to the 8-10mph with the mother of all climbs, it seemed say it is not an easy one but the sense of (excluding motorcycle MOTs) average we had been achieving in training. never ending and reduced us to pushing achievement is worth every ounce of sweat! UNIT D, THE CROFT, By CP3, with both riders quite as we did our best to get over it. Every turn WHITELY ROAD TEL: 01491 833116 HITHERCROFT IND. EST., demoralised, drastic action was needed. seemed to be the last so we thought, only WALLINGFORD, OX10 9DD To the rescue came Mrs Hunt, all the to find a hidden ridge in the distance, and way from RAF Benson with another bike, another gruelling climb to complete! meeting us at the 43 mile point near Finally, and after 17 hours of riding Bury, just north west of Worthing. Picking we crossed the finish line on Eastbourne’s ourselves up, we headed off on the trail, lovely King Edwards Parade at 21:30hrs, some 3hrs+ behind schedule, but still 100 miles off road mountain biking with determined to complete the challenge. 4000m of ascent complete, 1 broken With 50, 60, 70 miles passed, bike, £170 donated to charity and 2 fighting back the cramp at every climb, very tired, but massively proud MAcr all and pushing on as best we could, it was in one very hot and sweaty day! With 4 Wheel becoming apparent exactly how much temperatures hitting a cool 32°C in the alignment available. Are your tyres winter ready?

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 25 FD/CHARITY EVENT RUNNYMEDE CYCLE RAF 100 – Windsor 100 “Why don’t we ride down to the Runnymede Memorial for the RAF 100 celebrations? I’m sure it would be around Think Print 100 mile round trip and it’s not that hilly!” Lance Print is an established printers based in Back in January 2018 this sounded like we had borrowed was trying to take us up an excellent way to commemorate the to and around Solihull! Luckily two of us Peterborough. At Lance we upcoming Centenary of the RAF. Plenty had previously ridden the Chiltern Way so of time for training, the weather would knew if we followed the brown signs for combine skill, experience be decent by late May (fingers crossed!) the route we would get to Wendover. and the route could provide the perfect Thirty three miles later the Chiltern & knowledge to provide challenge for seven of ELW’s keenest Hills had taken their toll on a couple cyclists to attempt in a single day. of the riders whom hadn’t previously a complete professional ridden over sixty miles in a day before! After a well-deserved coffee and cake service. break at Wendover, the second part of the route took us south, on unfamiliar roads to Windsor. Now more reliant on GPS, we managed to set up a phone with Everyone persevered, determined to We aim to fill our audio directions which worked a treat. make it to the 100 mile point. This meant Two punctures and sixty five miles a detour beyond Watlington was required clients with confidence in, we finally made it to our much needed to make up the distance. We finished the lunch stop. After an arduous, sweaty ride together after nine hours and fifty in the knowledge that mornings’ riding, we were all keen to get as three minutes, celebrating with a well- Fast forward four months, by early May much fuel on board as possible, hoovering deserved pint at the Shepard’s Hut, Ewelme. any work undertaken by us, the realisation that 100 miles in the saddle is up the Harvester’s complimentary salad Disclaimer: Drinking and riding not advised. always a fairly tough day out, it was blatantly bar ready for the final stint. Back in the will be completed to the apparent that not all participants had saddle for a short but steep climb from managed to complete as much training as the Thames up to the RAF Runnymede highest possible standard. they might have wanted to! Family and work memorial, we each took time to pay tribute commitments had meant two of the original to those listed who had served before ‘Magnificent Seven’ would have to drop out us and given the ultimate sacrifice. of proceedings, leaving just five of PDSH’s The final part of our ride saw us keenest cyclists willing to attempt the ride. heading North West through Windsor Park, With the exact route finalised past the ‘Long Walk’ with the Castle estate incorporating as many hills as possible it would be split into three significant Call Today: sections. The first part of the ride would follow the Chiltern Cycle Way to RAF Halton, the second part would lead us down through Windsor to the Runnymede Memorial with the final leg (01733) seeing us ride back up through Henley before returning to RAF Benson.

looking resplendent following the recent Royal wedding. A small diversion off route found us passing the stables of the Royal 390 564 Household Cavalry before ending up by the entrance to Lego Land. After copious amounts of energy gel’s, protein bars, a The morning of the ride was finally few more cheeky hills and another two upon us and according to BBC weather more punctures, we made it to Henley it was going to be a scorcher. Departing After crossing the bridge back into almost an hour late due to heavy traffic on Oxfordshire, we were all beginning to feel a the M40 and a small technical issue with a bit tired (some more than others!). The last front spindle, we were finally on our way. few miles saw even more cheeky hills up It didn’t take long to realise (bottom of through Russell’s Water, providing a real test Swyncombe Hill) that the cycle computer of endurance. www.lanceprint.co.uk 26 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability

THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT LINDEN HOMES’ 2 LUXURY STATIC MEADOW VIEW IN CHOLSEY HOLIDAY CARAVANS FOR HIRE here’s something special about Linden Homes’ The homes available here are perfect for those serving in our new Meadow View development in the South forces, especially for those who are based close by. Cholsey is GOLDENSANDS HOLIDAY PARK MABLETHORPE Oxfordshire village of Cholsey. Yes, it has a an excellent location blessed with good transport links and is unique history dating back to the Roman times. a wonderful place for anyone to live, especially for couples and With miles and miles of golden sandy beaches opposite the park, you It also sits in an idyllic village nestled by the those bringing up a family. can also benefit from the facilities of the Haven Holidays Park which River Thames with great access to RAF Benson, Wallingford, include: an outdoor pool with flume and a heated indoor pool. TOxford, Reading, London and beyond. What’s more, the A Funfair with plenty of rides, a large fun area with a playground, climbing wall and crazy golf. “At Linden Homes, we are very proud of our forces and all they homes offer contemporary living space, good sized gardens do for our country - and we introduced The Forces Offer to There are also two coarse fishing lakes. Entertainment, and benefit from a 10-year Premier Guarantee warranty. But, highlight our commitment to helping service members realise both daytime and evening and a bar and restaurant. there’s something else; the award-winning housebuilder is the dream of owning a home they will love forever.” committed to making the dream of buying the perfect home a reality for members of HM Forces and has an exclusive Meadow View welcomes you through a beautiful entrance Based at the Forces Package† to help make the steps towards owning a and spacious green which boasts its own unique history. new home a lot easier. The ever-popular Help To Buy scheme, Preserved underneath the green is a large Roman Villa is also available at the development with the opportunity for which was discovered during the initial building works with those in HM Forces to utilise a unique Forces Help to Buy* a variety of other interesting historical artefacts. Scheme to help secure their dream home. With the Chiltern Hills on one side and the North Wessex Linden Homes understands the housing needs of members of HM Forces and offers a unique package. Linden’s specialist Downs on the other there is plentiful ancient woodland teams have a wealth of experience in helping members of the and green space for the whole family to discover and forces with financial assistance or professional advice. As a enjoy. For those who enjoy river walks, The River Thames valued member of our armed forces, you can take advantage runs by the village allowing opportunities to explore this of a package which offers a £500 discount for every £25,000 historic waterway. of a property’s value. What’s more, Linden can suggest the best Financial Advisors, Solicitors and Rental Agencies Not only are the surrounding areas beautiful, but so are the experienced in dealing with the needs of those serving in our homes. The homes themselves are spacious and modern. forces. With a selection of two, three and four bedroom homes available there is something to suit both couples and growing Alternatively, the Forces Help to Buy* scheme offers regular families. Each property features carefully considered layouts, armed forces personnel a loan of up to 50% salary, capped sleek designer kitchens, spacious gardens and parking. at £25,000, interest free and repayable over a 10-year period. This is to aid those needing to find a deposit to buy their The quaint village of Cholsey is a hive of activity with Bermuda 8 Berth own home. a strong sense of community and within a short walk of Meadow View there are great amenities, including village The interest free loan can also be used in conjunction with convenience stores, cosy pubs and a number of social groups the Help to Buy: Equity Loan‡, so a 5% deposit from personal for both adults and children. For families looking for the savings may not be necessary to secure a 20% government perfect place to set down roots and who dream to see their equity loan and a conventional 75% mortgage. children flourish, Cholsey benefits from its own Primary School and nearby Wallingford has a ‘good’ OFSTED rated Meadow View offers a range of two, three and four bedroom Secondary School. The Caravans are comfortable, clean and spacious. Central and electric heating throughout, with a fully homes from £325,000. equipped kitchen area. Both have extra wide showers, with separate toilets. The large lounges have comfortable Life at Meadow View really does offer the best of all worlds. seating a TV, DVD and CD player, with a second TV in the double bedroom. Nicky Chapman, Sales and Marketing Director for Linden For those based at nearby RAF Benson, Meadow View Both are situated together with a large grass area at the front with outdoor tables and chairs. Homes Chiltern commented: is only a short commute away. So, for those serving at the The caravans are available for hire from 10th March to 20th November “Meadow View is a special place surrounded by the unique base and living further away, the development is the perfect 3 Nights Fri - Mon 4 Nights Mon - Fri 7 Nights Fri - Fri glow of the area’s beauty and history. opportunity to gain back some invaluable free time. Booking MUST be made through eastuk-holidays.com YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Credit is secured against your home. Photographs show typical Linden homes, which may include optional upgrades or extras available at additional cost. *Subject to Forces Help to Buy terms and conditions. Available on new build homes only up to £600,000, subject to the government’s Help to Buy terms and conditions and only available to customers where a primary mortgage Look for - Bermuda 8 Berth or Richmond 8 Berth is secured. ‡Subject to status, Help to Buy Terms & Conditions and available on selected properties in England only. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value). Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings/deposit where required. The equity loan is provided by the HCA and held as a second charge. This offer is not available in conjunction with any other promotion. Full details will be provided on request. †Terms and conditions apply. Available on selected homes only. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer including Help to Buy. Discount available up to a maximum of £5,000. This offer is available to selected HM Forces Members only. Prices and details correct at time of going to press. FD/SPORT RAF BENSON DIVING Benson Sub-Aqua Club Completes Egypt Photographs and Article By: Sam McSevich RAF Benson Sub-Aqua Club kicked off the summer with Ex Almiah Almisria; a one-week underwater adventure for 12 of the clubs’ members.

The group were based at the Red Sea Eco Villages Dive Resort in the small village of Wadi Lahami, southern Egypt for the week of the 4-11 Jun 18. Beach-side Bedouin style tents with gorgeous ocean views became the huge archways, coral canyons, caves with home for the divers which added to narrow passes and a variety of wrecks to their authentic Egyptian experience. be explored. Parrot fish, Clown fish and But sun-soaked settings aside, Blue-spotted rays were just some of the what were the divers out to achieve? marine life on show, but, with a bit more Developing leadership, teamwork skills, luck we would spot Moray eels, Hawksbill inter-dependency, physical and moral turtles and even the occasional pod of courage and mental robustness are Bottlenose dolphins. After initially spotting just some of the challenges presented the pod riding in the surf of the boat, we through the means of sub-aqua diving! were very quick to kit-up and get into the The dive sites at Wadi Lahami are water. They were extremely playful and split into 3 zones and were accessed by inquisitive getting within touching distance 12-person RHIB’s (Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boat). 3 dives were conducted daily over a period of 6 days which provided hours of training opportunity and experience across the board. Personnel on the expedition ranged from the Expedition Sub-Aqua the opportunity to see all the wildlife, Diving Supervisors through to BSAC (British landscape and shipwrecks that are on Scuba-Aqua Club) Ocean Diver trainees. offer in The Red Sea. The remaining divers’ Ocean Diver is the first qualification that experience ranged from other Ocean Divers is completed when you learn to dive and and Sports Divers to PADI (Professional provides all the necessary skills such as Association of Diving Instructors) divers how to use all the basic dive gear, control completing a cross-over to the BSAC system. your buoyancy and how to move about BSAC is the official system that has been of us and following throughout the entire underwater. It also teaches you the basic adopted for all the diving that takes place dive. A once in a lifetime experience for safety skills as well as how to plan and in the military due to the courses that sure! Oceanic sharks, whales and Dugongs manage your dive. 2 members of the they provide and the skills they offer. (Sea Cows) were all on the agenda, expedition completed their final open But why was Wadi Lahami in Marsa however due to strong wind and a choppy water dive assessments which qualified Alam chosen as the place to dive for sea, it made it very difficult to make the them to dive down to 20m giving them the team? The Red Sea is one of the world’s premier diving destinations due long boat journey to the correct sites. to its renowned underwater landscapes The entire Expedition was deemed and marine life. It is only a flight from a huge success, not just from the sub- Europe and the climate is tropical, aqua elements but in personal and inter- with it often being described as “The personal developments with 5 members Bahamas of Europe”. Unfortunately, the returning to their parent units with one most popular resorts, such as Sharm el new Internationally recognised Dive Sheikh, have been overrun with tourists, Qualification under the BSAC Scheme. somewhat spoiling the serenity and South Egypt is a beautiful place to natural beauty of the scenery. Marsa visit and to dive and we hope it stays Alam, however, is farther south with that way for the foreseeable future. Wadi Lahami being the southernmost dive resort in Egypt. It is a sweet spot as it still offers the solitude sought after, but still with enough infrastructure to make it a great place to dive. Initially, the divers completed a re-familiarisation dive on the resort house reefs which consisted of a series of small atolls, ridges and pinnacles located nearby in zone 1. As the days went by, different sites offered even more to see including

32 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 33 FD/SPORT RAF BENSON SHOOTING EVENT

an astonishing 23/25 out the bag on the Shooting the Breeze (and a few clays…) second layout, an excellent effort by both.

Article By: FS Frank O’Reilly AES Day 3 (Sat 12th May) English Skeet (ESK) With many nursing headaches from the annual tradition that is the ‘Friday night Chinese and karaoke’ Saturday is always an RAF Benson at the RAF CPSA champs “interesting” day with many wishing they had taken their ear defenders along to the restaurant. Unusually for Notts it wasn’t too For those not in the know, of which I’m windy; last year’s gales on the Saturday had sure there’s many, every year around the clays doing moves that would put some early May the RAF Clay Pigeon Shooting feathered birds to shame! Again, the format Association (RAF CPSA) host their annual consists of 25 targets shot from 7 different Championships at Nottingham District positions within a semi-circle ranging Shooting Ground in…well, I probably from going away/incoming to all out don’t need to explain. Shot over 4 days crossers, if you’ve shot 24 by the time you and technically covering 5 different finish number 7 then you have the option disciplines the event is undoubtedly one to chose one more and take a coveted of the highlights of the shooting year ‘25 straight’. With a winning score of 96 for many. This year saw a contingent of 8 Benson’s closest contender was Al, finishing Benson personnel make the pilgrimage to on a superb 94 which earned him joint position after every shot until you have The Champs has a natural gift of creating an Notts; Flt Lt Nige Scarffe, Flt Lt Charlotte 6th overall *cough A Class shooter cough*. all shot 25. The twist in the tale is that atmosphere that is relaxed and welcoming Brierley, FS Al Sharp, FS Billy Bowdler, FS This discipline turned out to be another now the trap is sunk into the ground and to all no matter what your ability. Frank O’Reilly, Sgt Arran Woodward, Cpl favouring the Benson shooters. With all Hosted at a ground where all the staff oscillates in a figure of eight providing a Steve Watling and SAC(T) Jack Burnett. competitors having shot, Nige Scarffe had engage with you like old friends, I would variety of different targets all going away With several attending a training session shot a PB of 85 and both Steve Watling encourage anyone to come along and from you. Reactions are key and after 4 near Northolt on the Tuesday and the and Frank O’Reilly found themselves in a have a go. Many surprised themselves, days (6 for some) of shooting many start die hards electing to shoot the English shoot off (conjures up visions of a dual at many improved upon previous scores and feeling a little fatigued (although I’d argue Open on the Wednesday it was clear that dawn but trust me, it’s not that glamorous) most went away tired, slightly sunburnt that Fri night poss contributed to that). some intended to make a full week of it! for 2nd & 3rd in B and C Class respectively. but extremely happy. Thanks go to all Bensons top shot was once again Al Sharp, Shooting another round of 25 saw both that organised the event, the ground putting in a 73/100, loving a good pressure Day 1 (Thurs 10th May) Sporting. tied in their respective classes for 3rd and it staff and lastly Al Sharp, whose efforts to situation, Steve once again found himself As always, the 4 days kicked off with to mimic the behaviour of game birds With another 25 Sportrap to decide was down to sudden death pairs from the train and develop Benson shooters was in the shoot off for 3rd place in C Class. 100 sporting targets. This took the format (although the die-hard game shooters may the victor he successfully beat the centre stand. Steve being the consummate rewarded with some great results and a Unfortunately, this time it was not to be of 25 Sportrap followed by 75 Sporting shot disagree!) and each person shoots the same other 2 shooters to secure 2nd professional dispatched his prey after 2 smattering of silver/glassware. To the clays and he was just robbed of a 3rd place over 10 stands. The former is shot from 5 combination on each stand until all have in C class, great shooting. pairs securing him 3rd in B Class. Frank that got away, we’ll be back for you next finish with some fantastic shooting by different positions and each shooter gets 5 shot 75 clays. With the overall winning score wanting to do things the hard way was all year! Final overall positions overall were: targets per position. Notts Gun Club has a being an 88/100 both Steve Watling and Day 2 (Fri 11th May) Down square after 2 pairs each, with the pressure all. The Benson dark horse of this event reputation for being a little ‘breezy’, situated Jack Burnett put in a very credible 74/100 The Line (DTL) mounting his opponent propped the door was without doubt Billy Bowdler, having • Steve Watling 11th on a hilltop it can certainly make the targets to take top honours and bragging rights Day 2 brings the first of the Trap wide open and missed 3 of the next 4. never seen or shot ABT before (he aptly (3rd B Class ESK, 1st B Class DTL) a little challenging! With a number of amongst the Benson clan. Nige Scarffe disciplines, the devout Sporting shooters With only 2 needed a faultless 4/4 sealed renamed it ‘bang bang bu#$er!’ after the • Al Sharp 17th seasoned shooters dropping shots I think was not far behind with a very respectable begin cussing and many refer to it as ‘down the deal and with it 3rd place in C Class. first 25) he went on to shoot an overall • Jack Burnett 20th most entered the stand with an open mind. 70/100 that put him into a 3-way shoot off the drain’. DTL is shot from five different score of 72/100 on his first attempt! • Nige Scarffe 25th The 75 Sporting are targets designed for 2nd & 3rd place in C class. positions within an arc, each shooter has Day 4 (Sun 13th May) (2nd C Class Sporting) five targets from each position of a fixed Automatic Ball Trap (ABT) And Done! • Frank O’Reilly 31st height trajectory going away from you from ABT, for many this consists of firing So that was it, another year, another (3rd C Class ESK) a central trap, but the trap oscillates left to anything up to 200 cartridges into thin Champs gone. Benson had an eclectic • Billy Bowdler 32nd right constantly and you can’t see it until air whilst discovering a steadily escalating mix of seasoned veterans to absolute first (1st time at Champs) you call it and ‘surprise!!’. With experience vocabulary of swear words. Much like DTL, timers. I think all can agree on one thing, • Arran Woodward 46th varying from ‘done a few’ to ‘which way it is shot over 5 positions but you move an absolute fantastic time was had by all. (1st time at Champs) do I point?’ it didn’t take long for all to get • Charlotte Brierley 55th into the zen like state of concentration and (1st time at Champs) robotic movement required. With a number of solid scores going in over the 4 layouts The RAF CPSA is always looking for new one Benson shooter stood out; shooting a up and coming shooters; a future RAF phenomenal 97/100, Steve Watling ended Champion could be reading this right up taking top honours in B Class and the now, is it you? For anyone interested in silverware, his score placing him 4th overall taking up Clay Pigeon Shooting please only missing the overall top 3 by one clay! contact FS Al Sharp P2MF on Ext 7763 A special mention goes to two or e-mail: [email protected] complete DTL newbie’s; Charlotte Brierley, having done very little shooting (and I mean very little!) went on to put in a 19/25 and 14/25 on the last 2 layouts having never shot DTL before! And Arran Woodward was consistently in the high teens and pulled

34 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 35 FD/SPORT RAF BENSON WAKEBOARDERS

the guys, some since the very early stages of Wakeboarding, its been a pleasure helping them progress. Having now made it into Team GB myself, it really does show that all the effort that I have put in over the years has been worth it.” Sgt Ross Phillips of the Station Armoury, making selection for the third year said: “Making it onto the team GB again I couldn’t have been happier, the opportunities this has given me over the years has already seen me compete in two World Championships, Canada and Argentina, with the thirst for more, I am setting my sites on a podium finish on the European/World stage in the near future.” SAC Matthew McCreadie of PDSH said: “I wasn’t expecting selection this year if I’m honest, so when the team got announced I was in a bit of a shock, it took a while for it Award winning & Michelin recommended all to sink in. I have always loved the sport from a young age, and with the facilities Christmas party and festive menus and training the RAF has offered me over Article By: Sgt James Cook the last two years, I have managed to take now available on our website full advantage and progress my riding as Three RAF much as possible. I now hope to make an impact in my rookie year on Team GB.” RAF Benson Discount 15% off food in January Wakeboarders from The time and efforts that Sgt Valid Monday to Friday maximum of 4 covers, cannot be used with any other offer. Closed Tuesdays James Cook, Ross Phillips and SAC Benson are celebrating Matthew McCreadie have put in selection to represent over the years has been noticed, they now have the opportunity to Great Britain. represent their country amongst the best Wakeboarders in the World.

The personnel of Benson now look forward in flying the flag later this The Nelson month when competing at the Brightwell Baldwin European Championships in Roma. Watlington, Sgt James Cook of Joint Helicopter Oxfordshire OX49 5NP Support Squadron, the current RAF Team 01491 612497 Captain, who has been selected for the first time said: “I feel an immense amount The Nelson is a traditional 300 year old Inn set in Brightwell Baldwin. of pride following the announcement of Full of fresh flowers, lit candles and a splendid inglenook fireplace, this year’s GB team, having worked with the Nelson provides the perfect atmosphere for relaxing after a country walk or hard day at the office. Also during the summer, visitors can enjoy the pretty terraced garden, complete with weeping willow. The perfect place to celebrate the festive season Festive menu available during December along side our full house menu, from a table for 2 up to our private dining room for larger parties Steak night Wednesday evenings with 25% off all steaks Feel good Fridays! Enjoy a glass or bottle of champagne or prosecco 25% off Visit Wallingford 20% off food for all working and serving personnel on production of this advert A market town steeped in history on the bank of the River Thames. Enjoy a unique shopping experience with a blend of individual independent retailers, high street stores and regular markets.

With inviting pubs, restaurants and cafés there’s plenty of choice when it’s time to take a break.

At the heart of the town is a Grade 1 listed building At the Lord Nelson we are happy to cater for private parties and celebrations available for general event hire of almost any variety. So to make your special event truly unforgettable including weddings, partnerships why not contact us for a quotation and advice. The Nelson also offers and naming ceremonies. beautiful en suite accommodation with views to the village church, Sky TV Follow us: @WallingfordMTC and continental breakfast. Double room £100.00 Single room £75.00 ’Wallingford Market Town Coordinator’ [email protected] www.wallingford.co.uk www.thenelsonbrightwell.co.uk 36 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability LAST CHANCE TO MOVE IN 2018 AT CALA’S HOPEFIELD GRANGE

ousehunters looking to make a move in Forces Discount. The Armed Forces Discount 2018 will need to act quickly, as there are is available for serving, retired members of the now just a small selection of homes at CALA Regular or Reserve UK Armed Forces, or those HHomes’ popular Hopefield Grange development in that have passed Phase 1 of training and includes Benson available to move into before the end of a discount of 1.5% on the purchase of a new the year. CALA home, along with £1,000 towards legal fees if using one of CALA’s recommended solicitors. Hopefield Grange is a stylish collection of two, three, The discount can be used in conjunction with the four and five-bedroom homes located on Littleworth Government’s Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme, or Road in Benson. The popular development is perfect the Forces Help to Buy scheme. for house hunters looking to enjoy a relaxed village lifestyle, whilst still having good access to local Helen Colman, sales and marketing director for facilities, schooling and transport links. CALA Homes (Chiltern), said: “With our reputation for excellence and the stunning design of the homes, Proving popular since its launch, house buyers have combined with green surroundings, excellent been keen to call this blossoming new development schooling and strong transport links, it’s easy to see home, and with a range of incentives such as Help why visitors have been so impressed. We’ve had a lot to Buy, CALA’s up to 100% Part Exchange service or of interest in the homes here and as a result, have Stamp Duty paid available, it couldn’t be easier to just 4 two-bedroom properties available to move purchase a brand new home this year. into for the rest of the year. We’re expecting these properties to sell quickly as they appeal to a range Ideal for first time buyers, small families and of buyers, so if you’re thinking about a move, make investors, CALA currently has two fantastic two- sure you visit us soon to avoid missing out!” bedroom The Wallingford housetypes available to reserve today. Priced from £325,950, The Hopefield Grange is located in the characterful Wallingford features a large sitting room with village of Benson and is well-served for amenities, French doors to the rear garden, as well as an open- with a number of local shops on its High Street just plan kitchen/breakfast room, perfect for relaxed a short walk from the development. On the edge of meals together. All complemented by a guest W.C. the village along the River Thames is Benson Lock and storage cupboards for clutter-free living space. for enjoying weekend walks, as well as a boating While upstairs, the generous master bedroom with marina and popular riverside cafe. en suite and fitted wardrobe is joined by a second bedroom and luxury bathroom. For commuters, travelling into London is easily achievable with Didcot Parkway Station offering Almost 50 per cent of buyers at Hopefield Grange services to London Paddington in less than 45 have used the Government-backed Help to Buy minutes. Oxford city centre and Reading are also scheme to help them either buy their first home or both only a 30 minute drive away. move up the ladder to a larger property. With Help to Buy, the Government lends up to 20% of the cost For families, there is a number of well-regarded of a new build home, so that you only need to pay a schools on the doorstep, including Benson CofE 5% cash deposit and 75% mortgage to make up the Primary School, RAF Benson Community Primary rest. You are not charged loan fees on the 20% loan School and Wallingford Secondary School for for the first five years of owning the home. older children.

Hopefield Grange is also home to a number of To find out more about the homes available at service personnel that are located at RAF Benson, Hopefield Grange, visit the marketing suite and including the first owners on the site who used three fantastic showhomes, open daily from 11am the Help to Buy scheme, together with the Armed to 5pm, call 01491 525 620 or visit www.cala.co.uk. COMMUNITY HIVE

Coffee & Craft - An informal group for adult Little Frogs - Wednesday 0900-1100 A coffee 1100-1400 1830-2000 1900-2100 1900-2100 dependants of deployed personnel. Bring your own morning and activity time for parents and young MON NatWest Community Banker Cubs (8-10.5 yrs) Youth Club Ceramics Club craft or do ours, or just come for some support and children. Stories, songs, craft, friendship and fun. As of May 2018 HIVE (fortnightly) (secondary school age) friendship. Held in the HIVE from 1800-2000. Contact Held at the station church. Clare Hilton, HIVE Information Officer on - 01491 827213 for details. RAF Benson Ceramics Club - (Bldg 183) Opposite 0930 -1100 0930-1130 1215-1315 1830-2030 1830-2030 the Thrift Shop. The club has over 400 moulds and 3 Additional Needs Community Support Mobile Post Office Scouts Crafting Group Little Monkeys - For parents and parents to be, and kilns. Annual membership is only £10 a year! Open to TUES & Carers Group Coffee Morning last their pre-school aged children who want to come all RAF personnel and their families. For details contact HIVE Tuesday of the month 1330-1500 1730-1930 1900-2000 and meet other families and have fun! This new group Cpl Sasha White on 01491 837766 ext 7219. Community Centre Home-Start Benson Youth Club (8-11) Benson Lionesses Ladies are running in the new Community Centre in their Babies (bumps-15mnths) Football Training brightly revamped facilities. £1 per session per family Youth Club - Monday 1900-2100 (secondary school Sports pitch and tea, coffee, juice, and snacks for the children are age) Tuesday 1730-1930 (age 7-11). The station youth provided. Each session is free play and this group club runs in the rooms above Costa and the facilities offers support and friendship to other military families. include a big screen TV with WI and a X-Box 360, air 0900-1200 0900-1100 0900-1100 1800-1900 1800-1930 See Facebook RAF Benson Little Monkeys. hockey, football table, pool table, tuck shop and a Thrift Shop Little Frogs Tots Group Health Visitor Thrift Shop Beavers (10.5-14 yrs) large disco area. For details ring CDO Meg Wickett WED (in Term Time only) Station Church Community Centre (in Term Time only) Beavers - Wednesday 1800-1930 (age 6-8) in the on 7983. 1930-2130 Scout Hut above the Community Centre. Military Wives Choir Clare Hilton, HIVE Information Officer is situated Station Church Cubs - Monday 1830-2000 (age 8-10.5) in the Scout behind Proud to Serve (Costa Coffee) and a warm Hut above the Community Centre. welcome awaits. The HIVE offers free WiFi, Stand- Alone computers, magazines and resources, HIVE 0930-1500 1000-1200 1100-1200 1700-1815 Rainbows Football (on Stn pitches) Scouts - Tuesday 1830-2030 (ages 10.5-14) as above. Information on the surrounding area and is able to THUR Mortgage Advice Clinic Solicitor Clinic OXPIP Baby Massage 1800-1930 Brownies 1800.1830 Yr1 help with welfare referrals and signposting to support (Alternate Thursdays) HIVE (every other week) Youth Club 1830-2000 Guides 1830.1915 Yr 2-3 Explorers - Friday 1830-2030 (age 14-18) as above. & help. The HIVE now also offers the following : 1915.2000 Yr 4, 5,and 6

For details contact: raf-benson@ Mortgage Advice Clinic – Fortnightly on Thursdays thameschilternscouts.org.uk with representatives of Lexion Financial Services 1000-1200 1900-2100 0930-1530. COMMUNITY SUPPORT FRI Citizens Advice Clinic HIVE Explorers (14-18 yrs) Rainbows - Thursday 1700-1815 (age 5-7) in the Scout (booking required) Hut above the Community Centre. NatWest Community Banker – Christine McElhill of WEEKLY EVENTS OVERVIEW NatWest offers help for NatWest customers fortnightly Brownies - Thursday 1800-1930 (age 8-10) in the from the 18th June between 1100-1400. Scout Hut above the Community Centre. Solicitor Clinic – Alternate Thursdays, Richard Chapel Lane Hair and Beauty Guides - Thursday 1900-2030 (age 10-14) as above. Rodway from the Head Partnership in Henley offers free 30 minute appointments. Military Wives Choir - Rehearsals take place in the 5 Chapel Lane, station church. No auditions required, just turn up Citizens Advice – Every Friday by prior booking via and pay £1 subs per week, first week free for details the HIVE Officer. Benson, [email protected] Additional Needs & Oxfordshire, Carers Group – Tuesday OX10 6LU from 0930-1100, for any Benson Families with a Telephone: disability or additional need. Friendly, welcoming group 01491 838931

www.chapellanehairandbeauty.co.uk R.G. Park • TYRES, EXHAUSTS & BATTERIES Family Butchers Digital Design ‘The online store that you can visit, just 5 minutes from • LASER WHEEL ALIGNMENT Quality local RAF Benson’ • WHEEL BALANCING Sales and Marketing

Use Discount • PUNCTURE REPAIRS produce: Beef, Pork, Lamb, Bacon, Code ‘Benson10’ • AIR-CON SERVICING to save £10 Game, Cheese. Contract Publishing when you Totally Traditional Turkeys. spend over £50 01491 824145 Free Range Geese. 20 St Martin’s Street,Wallingford FORCES DISCOUNT GIVEN 5 The Pound, Cholsey, Wallingford, Branding Solutions Oxon OX10 0AL The Slate Barn, Mongewell Park Farm, www.wallingfordtyres.com Oxfordshire, OX10 9NS Tel: 01491 833701 Wallingford Road, Wallingford, OX10 8DY Tel: 01491651300 Tel: 01536 521126 Ayres Yard, Station Road, Free estimates E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] masterfloorswallingford.co.uk Wallingford OX10 0JZ web: www.rgparkbutchers.co.uk lancepublishing www.lancepublishing.co.uk

40 LION’S ROAR AUTUMN 2018 Mission: To deliver Support Helicopter operational capability www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 41 DRAYCOTT ENGINEERING Percy & Willy Illustration By: FS Dave Mccrindle GARAGE, TYRE & EXHAUST CENTRE

Take a look at our service Options at Draycott Engineering and book your service today! Interim & Full Service or Interin Service (six monthly)

ROYAL AIR FORCE GERMANY PET HOTEL Rich’s Sidings, Lower Broadway, Didcot, Oxon OX11 8AG I SAY RUPERT, DO HURRY. Call us on 01491 836103 I WANT A GO. Book online at www.avalonkennels.co.uk • Luxury Dog and Cat Hotel 01235 819966 • Award winning Grooming Parlour • Own brand dog/cat food Mon to Fri: 8am - 6pm Sat: 8am - 2pm • Open all year • Fully licensed and insured Avalon Pet Hotel, Icknield Way, Oakley Wood, Benson, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 6PP www.draycottengineering.com Tel: 01491 836103 | Email: [email protected]

www.raf.mod.uk/rafbenson AUTUMN 2018 LION’S ROAR 43