Wittering

The official magazine for RAF Wittering // Summer 2012

Features : In Brief | End of an era | Get toned for the summer! Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 1 Stamford Queen Eleanor School

Aiming to be the area’s leading secondary school, recognised for outstanding student achievement and for its positive role in the local community Invitation to Open Mornings & Open Evening 2012

Mornings: Monday 24 September - Wednesday 26 September 9.30-12.00 Evening: Wednesday 26 September 6.00pm-8.30pm

We are delighted to invite parents of primary aged students in Years 4, 5 and 6 to our open mornings and open evening. We want to share with you the exciting developments we have planned for the school and encourage you to choose Stamford Queen Eleanor School for your child’s secondary education.

We welcome students of all backgrounds and abilities and have high expectations of them all. We offer an accelerated curriculum for high achieving students. The last three years have seen record examination results for the school and we have also benefited from extensive rebuilding work to provide new facilities.

We are very proud of the school and visitors always remark on the calm, orderly and friendly learning environment. Pastoral care is excellent and, as a small school, the staff and students have a clear sense of identity and of belonging to a real community.

At our open mornings you will be able to tour the school and see us in action. At our open evening you will be able to meet our Headteacher and the school’s staff. You will also meet our students, governors, parents, community and education partners. You will have open access to all areas of the school and we will be pleased to answer any questions you have. For more information, please call us on 01780 751011 or email us at [email protected]

2 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 Exton & Greetham CE Primary School RATED GOOD BY OFSTED 2011

• Excellent Academic progress • Caring and respectful • Hands on experiences individuals and fantastic outdoor • Christian ethos with a learning environment strong family feel • Excellent pupil /staff ratio • National Singing Award • New up to date facilities • Rainbow Childcare Centre and IT equipment on site providing nursery • Before and After school care care from 6 months

“High standard of education with a safe and caring feel about it.” OFSTED 2011 01572 812380 Come and see what you are missing! www.extonschool.co.uk Striving for Excellence

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 3 VieWitteringw Foreword Group Captain Richard Hill I hope by the time you read this that you will have dried out following the wettest drought since records began; who knows, we might even be in a position to start using our hosepipes again...!

s I write this on a gloriously sunny But back to the future… We are now in day in mid May, I am struggling the thick of our role in supporting the events A to remember just how wet it has to mark Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond actually been for the last six weeks or Jubilee. I hope that those of you directly so, and hoping that the forecast of less involved in such events will thoroughly enjoy than clement weather for the rest of the your chance to be a part of a once-in-a- month proves to be wrong – I’ve spent lifetime event, and that your families will be Editors too many wet evenings on Summer Ball able to share in the enjoyment. Similarly, as fairground rides, and we could do without we enter the last stage of our preparations to \\ Editor Liz Corry SO2 FGW Ops the eagerly‑awaited Families’ Day being deploy significant numbers in support of the Summer is here but a wash out. Joking aside, even if it does London Olympics, I will be eternally grateful where is the sun? prove to be wet on 8 Jun, I am sure that the that the fuel tanker drivers decided not to go day will have been a great success with on strike; and, whilst noting the considerable fter a glorious few weeks late plenty to see and do, and there might even disruption and uncertainty that the Games March and early April, the sun has have been some cover under which to sit will introduce into a lot of people’s lives this Adisappeared and been replaced down and enjoy a slice of cake and/or a Summer, I sincerely hope that there will be by the rain. But fear not as this edition pint of beer. sufficient down time for you to savour your of Witt View will offer you some excellent It’s all very well looking forward, but involvement in an event that is likely not to reading material for the rainy days and of it would be remiss of me not to mention come around again within your lifetime. For course another competition. Well done the potentially most significant event that those of us who are hoping to be able to take to Ms Dennice Holmes of the MGR for has occurred since the last Wittering some leave with our families, I trust that we hunting down the Easter bunny and his View was published – the closure of RAF will recognise how lucky we are, and spare eggs in the last edition, winning a large Cottesmore, its transfer to the Army, and more than a thought for those who are living Easter Egg, and good luck to all of you its subsequent re‑naming as Kendrew in temporary accommodation at Hainault in this edition’s competition where you Barracks. I was immensely privileged Park or elsewhere and being fed by 3 Mobile can win some exercise training goodies. to attend the dignified and simple Catering Squadron Congratulations have to be offered to all ceremony that marked the demise of – although that of the Station Personnel who completed the Station on 31 Mar 12, and hugely last bit obviously the London Marathon, especially Flt Lt proud to be able to mark 74 years of won’t be too bad. Mary Temple for her amazing time of distinguished service in the company of Whatever you end 3 hours 40 mins 11 secs; the event has many of the personnel who, over the last up doing, I hope you certainly put us all into the mind-set for the 18 months or so, have worked tirelessly and your families Olympics which I am sure we will all be to secure the legacy of both the Station enjoy the Summer. watching and following with interest. and Joint Force Harrier; the scope, scale See you all in the Here’s hoping the sun is out soon and complexity of this task should not Autumn, perhaps and the summer proves to be be underestimated, and I salute publicly looking forward to glorious with many Team GB once again the sterling efforts of Wg Cdr a record-breaking medals won. John Turner and his team. dry Winter…!

Wittering Submissions The official magazine for RAF Wittering // Summer 202 Please direct all submissions for Wittering View Magazine to: The Editor Sqn Ldr Liz Corry [email protected]

Please try to ensure that images are in .jpeg format and as large as possible. Text should be supplied in Microsoft Word .doc format or plain text if possible. Features : In Brief | End of an era | Get toned for the summer! Wittering View \\ Summer 2012  Summer 2012 The official magazine for RAF Wittering and RAF Cottesmore

6 In Brief 8 End of an Era 22 Get Toned for the Summer Contents

04 Foreword

06 In Brief

08 End of an Era

08 Runway Dash

10 Ex Magic Carpet 2012

12 Ex Free Spirit

16 Normandy

18 War Gaming

18 SSAFA Volunteers

19 The New Arrival

19 Padres’ Corner

20 Hive

22 Get Toned for the summer

26 Sport Relief

27 The Hot Seat

30 Tea Time Break 26 Sport Relief

DESIGNED BY EDITOR DISTRIBUTION Danyella James Sqn Ldr Liz Corry Tesco Extra Serpentine Green, Morrisons SO2 FGW Ops Stamford, Waitrose Stamford, Families Spar Shop ADVERTISING Wittering, Wittering Post Office & Local Doctors Ext. 7189 Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, and Dental Surgeries DEPUTY EDITOR Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL Tel: Tammie on 01536 526667 Emma Stacey PUBLISHED BY [email protected] TEAM Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, SAC Sarah Hanson Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL PRINTING Tel: 01536 512624, Lance Print Ltd, Tel: 01480 492183 EDITORIAL DEADLINES Fax: 01536 515481 Deadlines for editorial entries, www.lancepublishing.co.uk Feb 3rd, May 7th, July 20th, Oct 19th. E.mail: [email protected] In Brief SPRINTATHON SUCCESS

ersonnel from 3 MC Sqn and the Station Catering Flight raised P more than £500 for charity with a 12-hour spinathon. The stationary cycle event, which took place at the back gate, was organised by SAC Danielle Spicer and her husband, SAC Chris Spicer, in aid of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Danielle organised the event as her mum and her twin sister both have MS. Do you fancy trying She staged a similar event last year your hand at playing while she was stationed in Oman. basketball? The couple were joined by 24 volunteers from 3 MC Sqn and the Station Catering Flight, who took it in club has just been launched turns on the bikes during the 12 hours. on the Station and is looking for All smiles during the 12-hour spinathon players of all levels to come and in aid of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. A have a go. Sessions are being held at the gym every Thursday from 1800-1900hrs. For more information please contact Tough Challenge SAC Stuart Allsop or SAC Macdonald at 5001SQN-ECF on ext 7140. Great Cause Simply Do you have what it takes to endure an event that Different is both physically and mentally challenging? Group re you a parent or carer for a The route starts and finishes at RAF child with disabilities or a medical Wyton and links the four historical RAF Aproblem? If so this group meets to Pathfinder Forces stations of Wyton, offer support and provide information in Graveley, Oakington and Warboys. a relaxed and friendly setting. The group The walk itself is not designed to make is held during term time in the Wittering a profit for charity or otherwise, as its and West Rural Children’s Centre, on sole purpose is to commemorate the Wednesdays at 1315-1445hrs. Pathfinder Force and their efforts during Go along have a chat and a coffee. the Second World War, but people can For more details contact Gina on tel. use the walk as a challenge to raise 07500349067 or Angie at the Children’s money for charities of their choice such Centre on tel. 01780 782336 ext 21. as Emma Kenyon and Karen Clarke, who Babcock relay team a few miles from the finish line. raised over £800 for MacMillan Cancer Support by taking part in the march he Pathfinder March is an annual last year. New long-distance endurance event in The entrance fee is just £12 per person Ebooklet Twhich walkers and runners have to and application forms are available complete 46-miles inside 20 hours, and from: www.pathfindermarch.co.uk or he Wittering Community News Booklet organisers are calling on people to sign contact Flight Lieutenant Nick Tucker, has undergone a transformation. The up to take part. Treasurer, RAF Wyton, Huntingdon, Tbooklet is no longer available as a The march, being held on Saturday, Cambridgeshire PE28 2EA, tel. 01480 paper version and has been changed to June 23, is open to both military and 52451, ext 7320 or Squadron Leader an email only version. civilian personnel, and the route can be Paul Tuite, Project Officer, RAF Wyton, If you would like to receive this walked or run either individually or as Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE28 2EA, version please email Sophie West at part of a relay team. tel. 01480 52451, ext 7610. [email protected]

6 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 her son and another child in Wittering •If you would like to volunteer at the Thrift Shop village, despite being a one in 3000 Wittering Thrift Shop, if you have something occurrence. you would like to sell, or you know of a local Annual The Wittering Thrift Shop is run charity or organisation that you would like by volunteers who staff the shop on to recommend for future donations, then Charity Monday and Thursday mornings and please pop in and see us at 10 St George’s Donations Tuesday evenings. People bringing in Road, Wittering. items to sell are given back 80 per cent The Wittering Thrift Shop has raised of the sale price; the 20 per cent goes hundreds of pounds for local charities total of £550 has been donated into the charity pot. and causes. by the Thrift Shop to various A local charities and voluntary organisations who all have a link with the Station or Wittering community. Every year the Thrift Shop makes donations to worthwhile local charities and causes raised through the sale of items that are donated to the shop. This year the organisations to benefit were 115 (Peterborough) Air Cadet Squadron, the Hive, Airplay and RAF Wittering Families Day. A donation was also made to local resident, Annette LeSech, to help fund research into Neurofibromatosis disease, a debilitative From left: Flt Lt Sam Vincent, Mel Guinness, Annette LeSech, Claire Arden, Sandy and currently fatal condition that affects Balls, Mel McKenzie, Sam Cooper (Thrift Shop manager) and Beth Pugh.

STATION FREE Bowling COMMANDER’S at Wittering Café M O N T H LY Bowl for families of AWARD FOR deployed personnel. OUTSTANDING Come in the HIVE and ACHIEVEMENT pick up a voucher; contact the bowl to arrange a time and Recognition for high achievers enjoy some time Ten Pin Bowling. he Station Commander’s Monthly Award for Outstanding Achievement T is for Station personnel who have given outstanding service to their Flight, Squadron, the Station or in the local Deployed Families community, in the previous month. Line Coffee Morning takes Managers nominate personnel each place on the first month for presentation to the CO’s Board Tuesday of every month which determine the individual who has achieved the most. in the Real Bean Coffee Shop on camp between Since the last edition of the Witt View, the 1000-1100hrs. Come winners have been: along and meet other

Feb 12 – SAC John, detached from 3 Sqn deployed families and to FP Trg. some of the community Mar 12 – SAC Learmonth, 1ELS. support team at RAF Apr 12 – Cpl Brigden, 5131 (BD) Sqn. Wittering.

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 7 and RAF families attend the final lowering Sir Douglas Kendrew served in the Royal of the RAF Ensign at RAF Cottesmore. RAF Leicester Regiment and was educated in Cottesmore provided 74 years of aviation Uppingham. He served in WWII in North history dating back to 11 March, 1938 Africa and Italy, then in Korea and Cyprus when the Station officially opened as a and is one of a few officers to be awarded bomber base with Vickers Wellesleys and the Distinguished Service Order four times. Fairey Battles. Few RAF personnel remain at MOD As ‘Sunset’ was played by Trumpeter Cottesmore; Air Traffic Control equipment Cpl Lee Colley from the RAF Waddington needs to be removed from the Airfield Voluntary Band, Wg Cdr John Turner took and 10 buildings still remain to be handed the salute on behalf of Gp Capt Hill as over to the Army, furthermore the RAF two SNCOs, CT Geoff Cook and Sgt Rob Logisticians are still active carrying out Bancroft, lowered, folded and finally Elimination of Accounts. However, the presented the Ensign for the last time, majority of service and civilian personnel all under the watchful eye of the Station were due to depart the Base and those Warrant Officer, WO Dennis Hawkins. It few remaining will move back to RAF has taken over two years to reach this Wittering in due course. The Army are milestone. The first decision to close beginning to slowly move in with the RAF Cottesmore was made in 2009 first big influx due in June when the however the decision to totally dispose Advance party of the 2 Battalion Royal the Harrier Force brought forward the Anglians start to arrive; by early August, END closure from 2013 to 2012. The Army has 650 Battalion personnel should be subsequently officially taken over the ensconced within MOD Cottesmore. A base when Lt Col Ed Marvin, the interim second unit, 7 Regt RLC, with another 600 Army Station Commandant, hoisted personnel are anticipated to start arriving OF AN the Union and Army Flags up the Base in February 2013 to finally all be in by flag-pole. July 2013. After 74 years of glorious history, It is the Army’s aspiration to rename the RAF Cottesmore is no more but its future as ERA Base ‘Kendrew Barracks’ and hopefully a military base is ensured. Paradoxically, by the time this article is published the the Army will never be able to get rid of aw a small, distinguished group of Minister for the Armed Forces will have those indestructible RAF hangars which people, comprising of His Grace The agreed the name change and the Council are visible from the A1 and will always S Duke of Rutland, The High Sheriff of Highways Department will have started to remind all who pass of its past. Rutland, The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland, replace the 30+ red ‘RAF Cottesmore’ signs The Mayor of Oakham, various councillors with ‘Kendrew Barracks’. Major General Wg Cdr John Turner

quick get-away. Most airfield speed limits ‘RUNWAY DASH’ were broken as cyclists whizzed along the tarmac at top speed on various types of bikes. The first back to the pad ready for the last run leg was the eventual winner SAC Peter Hunt from Cottesmore, closely followed by WO Marshall, our legendary RAF Wittering runner. The race was on! Others were not far behind, including SAC Clint Lashley, a chef in the Sgts’ Mess. SAC Gaz Keen was on fire as he closed the gap between himself and the runner in front, and the race was exceedingly Station personnel donned their running shoes close for all who took part. SAC Ben Lloyd had and cycling helmets for a ‘Runway Dash’. an amazing run and represented the Fire and Rescue Section with pride. he event, organised by the station’s also participants from 1 EL, 2 MT, the Fire Flt Lt Angela Howard said: “A very well Triathlon Club, was a Duathlon Section and some Harrier engineers from done to all who took part and a big thank T consisting of a one-mile run, then a RAF Cottesmore. you to WO Marshall for all his help prior to the four-mile cycle ride on the airfield, and finally The route was a square around the event - and for providing chocolate bars at another one-mile dash to the finish line. There outskirts of Vigo Woods, starting and ending the end! This was a great event and hopefully was great attendance from personnel from at the harrier pad. Runners ran as fast as one of many more to come.” both RAF Wittering and RAF Cottesmore. WO they could around the route which was then For info about the RAF Wittering Triathlon Steve Marshall had encouraged a good followed by a speedy transition as athletes Club please call Flt Lt Angela Howard turnout from Low Flying Ops and there were grabbed their bikes, pre-positioned for a Ex 7388.

8 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 THE LAND ROVER BURGHLEY HORSE TRIALS 30 AUGUST – 2 SEPTEMBER 2012 Stamford, Lincolnshire

he Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials may be some facepainting or join in the treasure hunt. For a more the premiere equestrian and social event in the leisurely visit, meet up with friends, relax with a Pimms and international sporting calendar but you don’t do a little celebrity-spotting! Trequire a love of horses to enjoy a day at the Event – there is so much to do and see. ‘Foodies’ will love the legendary ‘Food Walk’ – a dedicated avenue of shops showcasing mouth watering The beautiful parkland of Burghley House, Stamford delicacies from around the world. More than 50 of the best provides a perfect setting for the 3-Day Event competition British and European producers ranging from fine game - one of the very few sports in which men and women pies, supreme sausages, Loch Fyne Oysters and potted compete on equal terms. The competition begins with shrimps, to scrummy cupcakes, girdle-busting Brownies, the elegance and poise of Dressage on Thursday and old-fashioned fudge, single malt whiskies and award Friday. Saturday offers the thrill of the endurance phase as winning cider. horses thunder around the four-mile cross-country course, designed by Captain Mark Phillips. Sunday’s showjumping Whether you come to Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials for brings the competition to its nail-biting finale. the horses, the food, the shopping or the view of Burghley And then there’s the shopping! Around the Main Arena House, you won’t be disappointed. the usually tranquil parkland is transformed into a bustling village of shopping avenues with over 600 hand-picked For ticket details and more information visit tradestands to tempt all ages. Luxury goods, rural crafts, www.burghley-horse.co.uk or telephone the Box Office on bespoke kitchens, furniture, fashion and fabulous jewellery 01933 304744. are just some of the wonderful delights on offer – perfect for treating yourself or even starting your Christmas shop! Children aged 12 years and under are admitted free of charge and there are great savings to be made when The energetic and adventurous can walk the cross country purchasing tickets in advance. There are also significant course, test their nerve on the Land Rover Terrapod, try discounts for coach and group bookings. Need to know: The Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials (30 August – 2 September 2012) Stamford, Lincolnshire. The event is clearly signed, and is a few minutes from the A1. Dogs are welcome on leads. Advanced Bookings: Thursday, Friday & Sunday – Admission £12 per person, £8 per car Saturday – Admission £21 per person, £8 per car Children (12 years and under) when accompanied by an adult, are admitted free of charge. Discounts for Coach/Group bookings Tel: 01933 304744 or visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk for more information

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 9 Ex Magic Carpet 2012 Mobile Caterers Head Off To Oman.

o. 3 Mobile Catering Sqn (3MCS) facility with full In Flt Catering support. deployed on Ex. Magic Carpet Jan Using a mix of fresh and Operational N 12, in support of the Typhoons, 11 Ration Pack rations the team produced Sqn, and the E3D, 8 Sqn, who were flying all the home cooked dishes expected ‘live’ bombing missions and practicing by serving airmen, including two Theme re-fuelling capabilities with the Royal Air Nights of Chinese & Mexican origin. Again, Force of Oman (RAFO). the Operational Field Catering System A team of six 3MCS personnel, led by equipment stood up to the challenge of Flt Lt ‘Badger’ Drayton, deployed on the deploying worldwide, handling the rigours initial activation party, arriving at Thumrait of packing, unpacking and re-building. Air Base following a two-day journey This outstanding equipment ensures an via Cyprus on a C17. On arrival a quick array of fayre production making the RAF personnel, which some how evolved into look at the Camp Green site revealed a the envy of all other forces. Thankfully on a fancy address affair with a traditional ‘3- weather ravaged accommodation plot future deployments to Oman, there may can rule knees up’ and a big ‘Thank you’ with roads still swamp-like from the late be not be a need to operate from a tent as from OC 11 Sqn. For the de-activation December monsoons. The buildings and a proposal for a ‘purpose-built’ kitchen to party the same six stayed to clean, cabins were covered in an inch or more of house the Field Catering systems is being dismantle and pack up the equipment mud and what should have been a bare considered. into ISO’s for its UK bound journey. Rarely site and a relatively simple build phase The main phase of the flying exercise there is a reason to be jovial about being began with a day’s back breaking sweep, went exceedingly well from the catering kept behind on a rear party, however a clean and tidy. Once clean the team perspective and all were very impressed couple nights in the very impressive Hilton began to build the bilateral 60ft canvas with the end exercise show of strength hotel cheered everyone up as we enjoyed kitchen facility in preparation of the Main from the RAF’s Typhoons, USAF F16’s and a little down time, a proper bed, a swim Party arrival of over 300 personnel. Once the RAFO Jaguars and Hawks. To conclude and a little sunshine. built, the kitchen, managed by FS Maxine an excellent exercise the 3MCS team Booth, went on to produce a 24hr feeding produced a final ‘bash’ BBQ for the 400 Sgt Darren Rose, 3MCS Ops

10 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 Get ready for plenty of summer fun with Uppingham Summer School! here all kinds of fun trying all sorts of different courses on offer for experiments in our new T both children and Summer Science Factory. adults at Uppingham Summer School, so lots to keep There are lots of sports everyone occupied, whatever courses on offer too, with their age. the chance to enjoy expert coaching and a fun few days All types of music are catered playing Cricket, Netball, for, from the orchestral Young Rugby or Hockey. And more Musicians’ Week, eponymous creative children will enjoy Jazz Big Band Week to Total our Arts & Crafts courses or Music Powerhouse for those Baking for Kids. with a passion for modern music and Glee Week for There are also plenty of anyone who enjoys singing, courses for adults to try, dancing or musical theatre. whether you are a complete beginner and want to try From Page to Stage, our learning something new, or drama course, is perfect for simply because it is a subject budding actors, directors you enjoy. Whatever your and theatre technicians, interest or whatever your age, whilst Creative Technologies Uppingham Summer School Powerhouse offers an is bound to have something opportunity to learn about for you! iPhone app design, computer game design, Further details on all courses can be found on film-making and robot www.uppinghamsummerschool.co.uk design. Children can or by calling 01572 820800. also come and have

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Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 11 of Group 1 meant they progressed from the nursery slopes and up the mountain. The conditions were perfect, the sun had come out and the fresh dump of snow created a nice covering of powder on the slopes. The snow started again before last lift and continued through the night. WO Franklin-Brown retired early today due to one of the screws in his foot giving him problems, supporting the theory that he isn’t actually human! Lots of snow, a celebrity chef and a rockslide Tuesday saw gleaming sunshine once were just a few of the joys enjoyed by 3 again on the mountain peaks. There was Sqn RAF Regiment on their skiing trip also a noticeable drop in temperature which seemed to deter many skiers from to the French Alps. By SAC P Rowe. getting out of bed and the slopes were pretty much our own. The untouched runs covered in a thick layer of fresh t was a cold early morning when 3 Sqn was straight up on the green, blue and powder. Mr Plough had hired a new RAF Regiment embarked on a week’s red runs. The quote of the day was aimed set of skis and was ready to get on the I expedition to Val D’Isere in the French at Fg Off Al Mackenzie; “He’s bombing slopes again. WO Franklin-Brown and Alps. Two minibuses and a half-and-half down the slope like a gorilla on skis! He Sgt Cawser rejoined us today in Group were filled with, skis, food, beer, personal needs to be more like a ballerina”. In 1. Whilst having lunch at the top of the kit and finally the passengers before Group 2, Sgt Adam Cawser had a bad gondola, Group 1 spotted celebrity chef setting off on a 800-mile journey. There first day, snapping off the brake on one Heston Blumenthal. It was suggested were a few stops along the way including of his skis in a crash which meant that he that we convince him to cook for us a hotel in Dijon for the first night, before had to chase his ski halfway down the as a Help for Heroes effort but nobody finally reaching the snow covered resort mountain. We were skiing until the last lift had the courage to approach him (at of Val D’Isere. and all had a very productive first day. least not until the après ski phase of the That night Val D’Isere experienced its Our second day started by opening day). Cpl Daz Speight had an impressive first snowfall in weeks and the next day the curtains to some low cloud and tumble on a green run which resulted in we saw our first day on the slopes; but light snow flurries. Plt Off Shane Sobral him actually bending one of his skis to depending on the individual’s ability (already nicknamed Mr Plough for his a 90 degree angle. We caught up with and experience there was a variation skiing technique) had a panicky morning Heston later in the day and the most of whether it was skis or bums on slopes. after another resident at the apartment memorable moment of his encounter We were split between the instructors had used his skis. Fortunately for him Sgt with us being when SAC Larner asked into four groups of eight, varying from Cawser had gone ill so he borrowed his him how to cook carrots! never skied to seasoned pro. Group 1 skis until his could be found. The previous Day four was another nice day, but the were those that had never been on skis day had seen some people excel beyond slopes were littered with ice patches, a before, so started with the very basics of their group and some struggle to find combination of over skied areas and sub how to put skis on. At the other their feet so the groups were tweaked zero temperatures. At the end of the scale, Group 5 accordingly. The progress

12 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 battered morale but we battled on, even not strictly a lie – he just forgot to mention mustering the enthusiasm to challenge that ‘up the road’ was 800 miles away! ourselves on a timed slalom run. The This allowed us to get into position near winning time was Fg Off Al Mackenzie who the front of the roadblock and once the was for some unknown reason dressed as road was cleared allowed us to get away a cow (although the cow bell had its uses quickly. Those who had booked flights in the whiteout conditions). With a not so missed them and there was no chance glamorous time approaching the half hour of reaching our stop-over in Reims so we mark was Mr Plough. From the slalom the were forced to drive through the night. groups dispersed and most were finished There were adequate number of drivers top of the Grand Prix slope was a huge sign a little earlier than usual. and they had been well rested during the warning of the dangers that lay beyond, Waking nice and early, we cleaned our day, however it was still an epic, non-stop off-piste. The sign was adorned with apartments and loaded our wagons, we journey across France. various stickers from numerous groups and were ahead of schedule, until we received Overall the expedition was a huge organisations, and now a black scorpion news that a rockslide had blocked the only success. Progress was made with peoples’ and bayonet. Beyond the sign was a road out of the resort. Operation flap was skiing and also their personal development. barren, white, mountain range, providing immediately in force. The half & half (which By day three everybody was a competent the perfect backdrop for an expedition was outbound to get passengers to the skier, from then it was just a case of gaining photo. From there the groups once again airport) was sent forward on a recce and experience. The expedition was physically went our separate ways. Wednesday night returned with the news that the road would and mentally tiring but teamwork and saw the whole expedition out to sample not be cleared until later that evening. personal moral fibre brought everyone the local nightlife. Some members had With our kit returned and our ski passes through it with big smiles on their faces. been working hard to recce the bars all invalid there was nothing to do but watch After five days of skiing from first lift to last lift week and find the better places to go. films, mill around town and make good use the group were feeling the strain. Despite This was beneficial to the rest of the group of the daily subsistence allowance. When the fatigue everyone had persevered and although not so much the morning after. we finally got the go ahead to move we put in 100 per cent effort everyday. Special The weather for our final day of skiing were confronted with miles of static traffic. mention has to go to Cpl Daz Speight who was an appropriate metaphor for the Fortunately OC 3 Sqn who was driving the would be the first to admit he struggled, but groups’ state of health. It was an absolute front minibus managed to convince the he still tried harder than any on the slopes white-out, cold blowing winds brought in gendarmes that we were going back to our and made a vast improvement throughout endless amounts of snow. The conditions accommodation ‘up the road’. This was the week.

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 13 Candlesticks Restaurant with Rooms 1 Church Lane, Stamford - 01780 764033 Open Tuesday through to Sunday Evenings / Open Wednesday-Friday & Sunday Lunch Family owned & run since 1975 For the finest Indian restaurant in Stamford, look no further 10% Intimate Silver Service restaurant with than Raj of India. We serve the finest Indian cuisine, all freshly discount comprehensive fixed price menu prepared with the best quality ingredients. Our welcoming to RAF Wittering atmosphere provides the best place to relax and unwind with 8 en-suite bedrooms family or friends personnel Raj of India (on production of ID card) SKDC 5* Food Hygiene Award 2 All Saints Street, Stamford, PE9 2PA WINES OF PORTUGAL AWARDS WINNER 01780 753 556 TASTE MAGAZINE AWARDS WINNER Open: 12noon - 2.30pm and 6.00pm - 12midnight 7 days a week & bank holidays Evening Telegraph Eating Out 5*

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OPEN WEDNESDAY - THURSDAY - FRIDAY - SATURDAY JOIN OUR GROUPS CENTRAL NIGHTCLUB 9 Silver Lane, Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 2BT, 01780 482662 & BROWNES STAMFORD THE PLOUGH FARCET FEN Wednesday - Sunday EAT FOR £6.00 IN BAR - IN RESTAURANT - IN BEER GARDEN KIDS PLAY AREA WHAT’S ON Once a month on Wednesday - Clairvoyant Night Stamford Shop 15th - 17th June - Soul Weekend Our ‘signature’ loaves are made without baker’s 1 Ironmonger Street, 22nd - 23rd June - Country Weekend with Line Dancing Lincolnshire PE9 1PL 1st July - Parkinson’s Charity Day for all the family yeast using flour from a Monday to Saturday: 6th - 8th July - Curious Yellow Music Festival Weekend local windmill and are 8.30am - 5.00pm 3rd - 5th August - Beat The Recession Drum ‘n’ Bass Weekend baked in a wood fired 14th - 16th September - Boom Bap Hip Hop Festival oven for a perfect crust. Oakham Shop Gaol Street, Oakham, Please go to our website for further details on all our various events There traditional Rutland LE15 6AL www.theploughonline.com techniques and Monday to Saturday: TEL: 01733 844307 ingredients develop the 8.30am - 5.00pm EMAIL: [email protected] real taste of bread as it MOB: 07763978616 Exton Bakery & Shop used to be. Cottesmore Road, We now cater for Asian We also bake a selection Exton, Oakham, and gypsy weddings Rutland LE15 8AN of delicious cakes & tarts, Monday to Saturday: these include lemon, 8.00am - 5.00pm almond & fruit tarts, Sunday: Eccles cakes and cookies, 8.00am - 2.00pm all are made from scratch using only the best Enquiries 01572 812995 THE PLOUGH, MILK AND WATER DROVE [email protected] FARCET FEN, PETERBOROUGH 01733 844307 ingredients. www.hambletonbakery.co.uk

14 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 £1 A DRINK EVERY NIGHT! (WED/THURS ALL NIGHT - FRI SAT TIL 10.30)

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 15 FORCE GENERATION WING (FGW) STAFF RIDE TO NORMANDY FGW confirms ‘expeditionary’ is not a new term to the RAF.

arch 2012 saw members of training camps to War in France. Whilst in approached the small port they could FGW embark on a trip to the Portsmouth, the team took the opportunity not help but try to appreciate what those M historic French town of Caen in to visit the Historic Dockyard and, in young men had been through. Cpl Newton Normandy as a base for a five-day Force particular, HMS Victory. Some of the RN’s briefed the group on the logistic planning Development staff-ride of the Normandy new type 45 destroyers were docked close involved; the scale was breathtaking and beaches used for Allied landings on by thus providing a dramatic contrast in difficult to comprehend. The land past D-Day. The aim was to compare and equipment and demonstrating how much the hotel in Caen was the most bitterly contrast the Air and logistic elements naval warfare has advanced in such a contested area in WW2. In 1944 the allies during OP OVERLORD, 1944, with operations relatively short time. The D-Day Museum took months to break German resistance carried out today. The Subject Matter was next on the itinerary offering an and finally capture Caen, at huge cost. Expert (SME) was Dr Howard Tuck (Known opportunity to see some equipment used as “H”) who provided an unparalleled on the D-Day landings. WO Patel briefed Day Three: The team set off to the depth of historic knowledge, and also the group on the planning process involved beach at Port en Bessin where Wg Cdr acted as an impromptu team interpreter in the operation sparking debate as to the Sutton gave a brief on the area which and cultural liaison officer. UK’s military capabilities now. After a meal was the site for “Port Petroleum” and the in Portsmouth the group headed back to fuel pipelines used to supply the Allied Day One: Setting off from RAF Wittering accommodation at HMS Collingwood. beaches and the fuel thirsty armies. the team left early for Portsmouth to meet Inventive British solutions to rapidly up with H. This was an appropriate starting Day Two: The ferry to Ouistreham took the deploy underwater pipelines had been point, following the footsteps of thousands same route as the allied landing craft had put into action for the first time with great of troops in 1944 embarking from their nearly 70 years previously and as the team success. Looking along the coast many

16 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 of the German coastal bunkers were still Day Four: The day started at Gold Beach accidentally been left intact by the British visible; H pointed out Omaha beach and following in the footsteps of Sgt Stan not realising its role. Three days after the within seconds the group had decided to Hollis VC who single-handedly destroyed landings however an engineer inspecting stretch the itinerary to allow time to visit two German bunkers saving many of the German defences, smashed its back the American Cemetery and memorial. his comrades. Some of the bunkers doors in to discover 51 Germans hiding The Cemetery director, a friend of H’s still remain and inspection showed the inside, ready to surrender. The day was and a Vietnam veteran, spared some formidable defences the Allies faced. The completed with a brief on Field Marshall time to give the group a quick brief of the team then moved towards Bayeux where Montgomery at his monument by SAC events of 6th Jun 1944. After lunch the the 104 Beach Storage Area was located Sutherst. His leadership style was debated team arrived at Arromanches where SAC and FS Fido briefed on the Red Ball Express at length, fuelled by in-depth historical Gilhespy delivered a brief on the Mulberry which was the Allies 24/7 truck convoys input from H. Harbour. Much of the huge concrete that kept the army supplied. Comparisons structures are still in place where they were drawn with how the RAF provides Day Five: The final day started with a were positioned in Jun 1944 representing supplies today. After lunch the team visit to Bazenville where the RAF Servicing British ingenuity and its huge industrial visited the Grand Bunker – Atlantic Wall Commando set up deployed operating capability. Finally, before heading back Museum at Ouistreham. This observation airfields; Flt Lt Earl briefed on the role of RAF to the hotel, the team stopped at Bayeux and ranging bunker was used to direct personnel. The RAF Servicing Commandos the seat of Norman power for a chance to gun batteries fire onto the beaches were truly the A4 Force’s forefathers in view the Bayeux tapestry. and Allied shipping. The bunker had deployed operating base enablement and everybody within the group was keen to investigate their history further. The final brief was at Pegasus Bridge by Sgt Oswald; the capture of the strategically vital bridge using massive wooden Horsa gliders demonstrated the importance of airborne operations. The staff ride was enjoyed by everyone and successfully met all its aims. The group learnt that the RAF has always been expeditionary in nature and in many ways the process of change seen today is simply relearning some of these skills. The cultural side of the visit was excellent and helped the diverse team bond. By the end of the trip H had everybody ordering food in French and usually ending up with what they thought they ordered.

Sgt ‘Oz’ Oswald

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 17 The RAF Wargaming Association “(RAFWA) The Int Cell Wargame their way through Coventry.

attended my first RAFWA event in March; game with only a few casualties on my side. deployment zone. My final game was a kill these events are held twice a year in The second game I played was against Dark point game against Grey Knights. I lost this I Coventry and include various wargames Eldar. We had a dawn of war annihilation game entirely but still had fun doing so. He such as modern, historical, sci-fi, fantasy, mission. I decided to go second and keep my didn’t use any vehicles, it was all troops. His RPGs and cardgames. The event I took part entire army off table. The Dark Eldar came right army was the best painted army I played in was the Warhammer 40,000 tournament, up close to my board edge on turn one, big against too which made it better. Overall this a game I have played for about eight years mistake. I brought on my forces and overran was a great event with plenty of socialising while painting the models and reading the most of the enemy without them getting a and even a bizarre chinese restaurant where fiction for the last 16 years. “There were approx chance to shoot at me. The rest of the game the waiter didn’t know what soy sauce 80 people attending the event presenting an pretty much carried on like this except for his was. In the tournament I came third and extremely friendly atmosphere - not at all full flyer which refused to die even with my whole claimed second place in two of the painting of the spotty, beardy and socially inept type Necron army trying to kill it for two turns. My categories. “If anyone on the station plays of people that some believe the stereotype third game was against Dark Angels. I didn’t Warhammer 40,000, or any other wargame, I wargamers are. In the Warhammer 40,000 know anyone still played Dark Angels but I got have a wealth of information for local clubs so tournament there were five games to be to play against two at this event! please contact me at the Stn Int Cell. I have played over three days; the first game was “My fourth game was a particularly a blog to record my exploits in wargaming at on Friday evening and was a small game laboured and painful exercise. It was a game http://wingsofsanguinius.blogspot.com” (400 points) combat patrol mission. I played against an Imperial Guard mechanised against a Dark Angel army and won the army - a game of two objectives, one in each SAC Michael Towers

this article goes out we have managed to to help, just give the Coordinater a call on have some sun! tel. 07717 858008 during working hours. SSAFA Volunteers helped at some Terry McNalty is our SSAFA Social Worker of the events that took place during located at Wittering in the Amenities National Families Week 4-8 June, and centre and can be contacted on tel. the ever popular SSAFA Volunteers Stall 01780 783838 Ext 7793. appeared once again at the Families Day on 8 June. Wittering SSAFA Forces Help were presented with a cheque by Mr Kelham Cooke from the Marketing Team of SSAFA Summer update Waitrose. A total of £475 was collected via the Waitrose Charity Green Disc Project in ater Shortage! You wouldn’t think the Stamford branch so a massive thank so if you saw the rain pouring you to all the Waitrose customers who W down outside my window as chose to put their discs in our receptacle. I write this. As soon as they made the All funds from our fund-raising will be used SSAFA Volunteers were presented with a cheque hosepipe ban announcement, it didn’t to help personnel and families here at for £475 by Waitrose. From left: Caroline Batterbee, Kelham Cooke from Waitrose, Diane Jones, Sgt Trev stop raining, I’m hoping that by the time RAF Wittering. SSAFA Volunteers are here Baker, Nancy Coulson-Drain and SAC Amy Barwell.

18 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 RAF Wittering Welcome Padre’s The Arrival of A New 1 - Star Led Joint HQ Corner Headquarters Joint Force Support (Afghanistan) 16 is forming-up at RAF Wittering before deploying to Camp Bastion next year.

his summer will see the world’s eyes firmly focused on London. The 30th T Olympiad will showcase sporting excellence as the world gathers to compete in the games. People have trained all their lives for that one moment. They seek just one thing, the elusive Gold medal of the ince Jan this year a small group of 2013. Whilst this may seem a long way off, Olympic and Paralympic games. staff, assisted by personnel from forming a Joint HQ from scratch, moulding In 1924, Paris hosted the Olympic Games. S various Wgs and Sqns at RAF Wittering, it into a cohesive unit, and conducting A young Scot called Eric Liddell competed has been planning for the arrival of a new all the required HFT and MST to reach a in the 200 and 400 metres, winning unit, Headquarters Joint Force Support demanding mission readiness standard, Bronze and Gold respectively. Following (Afghanistan) 16 (HQ JFSp(A)16), which will prove challenging. However, through his success in Paris, Liddell became a has been generated by HQ AIR for Op the hard work and help of personnel at RAF missionary and moved to China to teach. HERRICK. HQ JFSp(A) is a permanent fixture Wittering, the HQ has been given a very He continued in this work until 1941 when at Camp Bastion, a 1-star HQ comprised of firm footing from which to start. It has been Japanese aggressiveness caused the British about 140 personnel, with responsibility for provisioned with office accommodation government to advise their citizens to leave supporting the UK deployed footprint and in Building 431 (the former ‘Holding Wing’ the country. Liddell’s wife and children left to all its personnel in Afghanistan. JFSp(A) is adjacent to 4 Hangar), with all the requisite go to Canada but he remained and went to more than just a Logistics HQ comprising of IT and communications infrastructure, as a different missionary post where his brother five functional areas – personnel (including well as basic (but nonetheless important) worked as a doctor. He was captured and welfare), medical, logistics, equipment things such as MT, furniture, signs and placed in Weihsien Internment Camp, where and infrastructure. It provides support personal clothing. The Command Team in 1945 he died. In 2008 Chinese authorities to all UK Force Elements deployed in (Comd, DepComd and COS) – Air Cdre revealed that Liddell was offered the Afghanistan as well as civilians, contractors John Bessell (RAF Logistician), Col Richard opportunity to leave but refused and gave and coalition personnel with whom Bennett (late REME) and Wg Cdr Greg it to a pregnant woman instead. A memorial appropriate agreements or Memoranda of Burchill (RAF Regiment) – arrived on 8 to Liddell can be found today in the former Understanding are in place. May, to join the two Wittering personnel Weihsien Internment Camp. His life was The majority of the HQ JFSp(A) personnel attached to the HQ to provide Real Life turned into a film called “Chariots of Fire”, a are individual augmentees (IAs) on 6- Support. Over the coming months the HQ quote from the famous hymn ‘Jerusalem’. month tours, with the core nucleus being will incrementally grow to its full size as more Liddell realised that while the Gold medal drawn from the Army’s Logistics Brigades staff are posted in. In total, there will be 23 was a great achievement, what really (101, 102, 104) in rotation. However, as 5 officers, 2 Warrant Officers and attached mattered was the legacy that he left behind core HQs are required for Harmony, the Wittering personnel. following his death. The bible tells us that we Navy and RAF each lead on the provision The HQ JFSpt(A)16 is looking forward to should not build up treasures here on earth of one core HQ in the operational cycle. being part of the RAF Wittering community where they will eventually be destroyed, HQ JFSp(A)16 will therefore be the RAF’s HQ over the coming year, and despite a busy instead concentrate on those things that will core nucleus led by an Air Cdre, deputised programme will make every effort to get not pass away. Working for the last year at by a Col and staffed by 25 other personnel involved in the life of the Station. For those RAF Wittering I know that there are many who drawn from the three Services. It is forming Wittering personnel who have already give sacrificially of themselves for the benefit at RAF Wittering to conduct both Hybrid assisted in the establishment of the HQ, of others. I commend to you in this Olympic Foundation Training (HFT) and Mission an extended huge THANK YOU for all the year to think about what legacy you leave Specific Training (MST), working-up to hard work. behind as you journey through life. full operational capability for a Mission Readiness exercise and declaration in May Sgt Hywel Greening Padre

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 19 Cineworld Cinema Free Spa Day Voucher tickets are available to for a Bannatyne Spa pick up from the HIVE Midweek only, for for families who have deployed family partners/family members member. The voucher away on detachment entitles you to a specified Deployed Families and please call in and treatment and free use Community Activities at collect. of the facilities. RAF Wittering Cottesmore

Mums and Tots The Mums and Tots sessions are held every Monday, Wednesday Children’s Centre and Friday in the Community The Wittering Children’s Centre is Centre on Welland Road, on based at Wittering Primary School. camp from 0945 – 1130hrs and It is open Monday to Friday during on Tuesday from 1300-1500hrs term time only, with different Clinics Times for a trial period. Pop in, have activities taking place daily. The Legal Clinic - A Solicitor from a natter and meet some new baby clinic is held twice a month. Buckles comes to the HIVE people. For more information For more information contact tel. on the second and fourth contact Sophie West 01780 782236 Ext 21. Wednesday of each month. at the Hive on tel. 01780 783838 ext 7541. Wittering Youth Club Child Support Agency - Visits The Wittering Youth Club is open on a monthly basis on Wednesdays between as required. 1800-2000hrs for eight to 13 year olds in the Community Centre Citizens Advice Debt and on camp. The cost is £1 per Benefits Advisers - Debt session. For more details contact Adviser on the last Tuesday the Airplay Youth Worker Carol of every month from Chapman on tel. 07767 329460 or 1000-1600hrs; Benefits Adviser at Youth Club. Adult Volunteers first/second Monday of are always required. the month 1000-1600hrs. Independent Financial To be eligible to attend trips or Youth Drop-in Advisers appointments take advantage of the offers Wittering Youth Drop-In is open available if required with featured here, the service Tuesday and Thursday evenings local firm. person needs to be deployed 1900-2100hrs in the Youth House for 28 consecutive on St Georges Road. Why not A Job Centre Adviser will be days. come along and meet the visiting Wittering in the last Airplay Youth Workers. Activities week of June and the first If you are interested in any of change throughout the year week of July. the activities please call me in and there is plenty to get the HIVE on involved with plus the chance to For all over the above 01780 783838 ext 7541 meet some new friends. For more clinics please make an or email me at details contact the Airplay Youth appointment call Wit-SptHiveInfoOfficer Worker Carol Chapman on 01780 783838 ext 7541 @mod.uk tel. 07767 329460. [email protected]

20 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 live Grove A large undercover display Nurseries area is now a family favourite, is now the designed to give customers a region’s most larger choice of exotic plants. inspirational Oenvironment for the home There is also a jungle area gardener, garden designers and with a large range of animals landscaping contractors wanting set among exotic plants, palm to make a real statement trees, ferns, grasses and olive by recreating a stunning trees. Walking through the Mediterranean garden. Italian style plaza provides an Many Mediterranean plants additional relaxed environment, are well suited to our changing where projects, plants and plans climate - they are heat-loving can be discussed. and drought-tolerant and above all need very little maintenance. We have a vast range of Visitors to Olive Grove Mediterranean plants, including Nurseries can also enjoy a taste large specimen palms and trees of the Mediterranean in our - some up to 400 years old – newly built coffee shop and contemporary pots, statues and sample our handmade Italian a myriad of plants to provide a fusion of colour and perfume in Gelato or simply browse around your garden this season. our fine food delicatessen.

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 21 Get Toned For Summer Is your mundane routine starting to bug you, making any activity a chore? Here are four simple steps to liven up your Squat and Press spring and prepare your body and mind for BBQ season. Using a set of dumbbells, perform a basic squat with weights held level with SMILE! It has been long thought plate; select and prepare meals to have the shoulders in front of the chest. Upon that the key to looking great is a every colour imaginable. This way you will standing, perform a rotating shoulder 1 positive attitude; so no matter what also probably have the correct amount press. To progress this, perform single your shape a smile can give the illusion of of fruit and veg, protein, carbohydrates leg squats followed by a press on confidence and also release endorphins and fat. alternating legs, or use a power bag. that help you feel better. A smile will instantly make you look more appealing and this A quick 10-minute workout guide to Lunge and Lateral Raise will be reflective in how other people see do every day or to add in with any of Performing lunges whilst simultaneously you. This is not suggesting that you stick a 4 your training will help hone you for performing a lateral raise. This can be wire hanger in your mouth as that would the summer. This will work best next to a done by lunging onto a raised step or be extreme and weird but grin your way good Cardio Vascular (CV) programme or box. To engage the core and work on through life. any team sports training. Within four weeks stability use a stability pad, cushion or you could also see a difference! any uneven sloping surface. Mentally stimulate your mind. If Whole body exercises are increasing you’re a TV lover, pick up a book for in popularity, and have great number of Oblique Twists 2 half an hour. Do you remember the advantages. One includes the increased Adopt the sit up start position. Ensure DIY you promised yourself you would do number of motor units required to perform your fingers are on your temples raise last May… Other ways to get the impulses the often simple exercises leading to a flowing around could be to join a local more efficient workout, and can take up team, sports or quiz - remember, full lists less time. By starting your workout with can be found on the RAF Wittering website these exercises and then by moving onto and can be obtained from the ‘lovely’ PEd isolation exercises will give you a quick Flt. By working your mind you increase programme and speedy session brain activity which in turn can help to relax that could take up to an hour of your body. resistance machine and free weight work to achieve the When selecting meals, don’t change same effects. what you like to fit in with the new 3 “fad diet”; just alter how you eat. The best advice ever heard, which is simple and easy to stick with, is to have a colourful

22 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 Aromatherapy Massage up and allow your elbow to touch the opposite knee. Slowly lower back so LimeGreen Experience Holistic Get Toned shoulder blades come in contact with Treatments at Home the floor surface. Repeat with the other Therapy side. • Aromatherapy Massage Angela Cardew For Summer Tricep Dips A.P.D.H.A • Seated Therapeutic Massage These can be performed on the floor, on Mobile Therapist • Seated Acupressure Massage a step or even in a stable chair. Placing the heal hands on surface with fingers www.limegreentherapy.co.uk • Holistic Facial and more …… facing the direction of sight, extend legs away from body keeping back close to Call: 07906127940 or email: [email protected] object/hands. Lower body so elbows bend to 90 degrees then extend to full height. To regress exercise, bring in legs closer to body. By moving the hand Country Main Street position (fingers backwards) changes Market Overton the part of the tricep being worked. Café Rutland LE15 7PL • Cooked breakfast • Delicious homemade cakes • Hot & Cold snacks • Cream Teas (summer only) • New Crazy golf now open • ‘Thaymar’ Ice Cream • Homemade Lunch-time ‘special’ • Children’s menu

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Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 23 The Garden house hotel 01780 763359 * Walled Gardens & Car Park * Excellent Food * Sensible Prices * Functions, Dinners, Weddings * Fixed Price Lunch & Early Bird from £12.50 for 2 courses * New Autumn / Winter A la Carte menu Christmas menus now available 42 High St., St Martins, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 2LP [email protected] www.gardenhousehotel.com

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24 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 Teriyaki steak with fennel coleslaw This flavoursome Asian-style dish is low in fat and easy to make.

Serves 4 Method the thickness and how well done you like Prep 15 mins them. Set the meat aside to rest on a plate Cook 5 mins plus marinating 1. Mix the soy, vinegar and honey, add the then add the remaining marinade to the Low-fat, super healthy steaks then marinate for 10-15 minutes. pan. Bubble the marinade until it reduces 188 calories, protein 29g, Toss together the carrot, fennel, onion and a little to make a sticky sauce. carbohydrate 7g, fat 5 g, saturated coriander, then chill until ready to serve. fat 2g, fibre 2g, sugar 6g, salt 1.05g. 3. Dress the salad with the lime juice, then 2. Cook the steaks in a griddle pan for a pile onto plates and serve with the steaks. Ingredients few minutes on each side, depending on Spoon the sauce over the meat. For the Teriyaki Steak 2 tbsp reduced-salt soy sauce. 1 tbsp red wine vinegar. 1 tsp clear honey. 4 sirloin or rump steaks, trimmed of all visible fat, each about 125g

For the Fennel Coleslaw 1 large carrot, coarsely grated. 1 fennel bulb, halved and thinly sliced. 1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced. Handful coriander leaves. Juice 1 lime.

Prawn spring roll wraps These tasty bites make a great light lunch or snack with a little bowl of sweet chilli sauce

Serves 4 Method Prep 10 mins 1. Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7. 4. Brush with the remaining oil, sprinkle Cook 20 mins with sesame seeds if using, then bake on Low-fat 2. Cook the noodles according to pack a baking sheet, seam-side down, for 15 241 calories each, protein 14g, instructions. Heat one teaspoon of oil in a minutes until golden and crisp. Serve with carbohydrate 39g, fat 5g, saturated large wok or non-stick frying pan. Stir-fry a green salad, and a good dollop of extra fat 1g, fibre 0g, sugar 8g, salt 1.29g. the vegetables, ginger and coriander chilli sauce on the side. stalks for three to four minutes until almost Ingredients cooked, but still with a little crunch. Throw in the prawns for one minute until 1 bundle dried thread rice noodles pink, then stir in the sweet chilli sauce, (about 60g) coriander leaves and noodles, then 1 tbsp sunflower oil remove from the heat. 300g pack fresh stir-fry vegetables - go for a leafy mix. 3. Brush four sheets of filo with a little of Half finger-length fresh root ginger, grated. the oil, then cover with the remaining Small bunch coriander, stalks finely sliced, sheets. Pile a quarter of the prawn mixture leaves roughly chopped. along the narrow edge of each sheet, 200g raw peeled prawns, halved. fold over the edges, then roll up to give 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce, plus extra to serve. you four large spring rolls. These can now 8 small sheets filo pastry. be frozen for up to one month; defrost 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional). thoroughly before cooking.

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 25 What a Cracking Relief!

ersonnel from across RAF Wittering Sport Relief, some enjoyed a leisurely jog donned their running shoes in aid while others showed a competitive streak. P of Sport Relief One-Mile Dash 2012. Fancy dress was optional, and despite the The race was organised by PEd Flt and extremely hot weather, personnel from participants, who all gave a donation 5001 made the mild effort of running in their to enter the race, had to run a distance coveralls and work boots! of one mile. All monies raised by Sport Sqn Ldr Adrian Dyer (Padre) started the Relief is spent by Comic Relief to help ‘DASH’ and awarded the first place to Cpl people both at home in the UK and across Adam Johnson from 2MT who shared his the world within some of the poorest prize of a box of chocolates amongst the countries. Sport Relief can transform fellow runners. the lives of people in the UK’s most Cpl Darren Wright, who helped organise disadvantaged communities, those living the event, said: “On behalf of PEd flight, a with poor mental or physical health and massive thank you and well done goes to has given protection to street children and all who took part and to all those who gave provided life-saving healthcare abroad. their generous donations. You can still show RAF Wittering’s one-mile double lap route your support to Sport Relief by logging on to started and finished at 3 hangar. The www.sportrelief.com and donating.” The Station Commander joins in the fun on the Sports Relief one-mile run. start line was full of personnel from across the station including the Station Commander, all showing their support for

Sqn Ldr Adrian Dyer (Padre) presents the winner Cpl Adam Johnson with his prize.

The Sports Relief One-mile Dash was well- And they’re off! supported by personnel from across the Station.

26 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 Seat

Hot

RAF Wittering’s latest Sqn Ldr arrival, and colleague of the Editor, has been placed into the ‘Hot Seat’. In the

Name: Chris Jones on a motorbike?’, criticism from Mr Swain independent/underground music. Maria Role: SO2 A5 Plans, FGW A’Level history, 1989. Walliser (former Swiss World Champion Age: 38 ski racer) as she was a schoolboy Marital Status: Current 7. How would you change the MOD? I crush of mine – note to Editor, please would increase ‘Jointery’ and dispense arrange for Annabel Croft to be on 1. What part of your job gives you the with No 2 Dress. standby in case Maria drops out. Chris most satisfaction? Supporting operations Turner (former player, manager and and the opportunities to travel. 8. What would be your first act as the owner of Peterborough United), for a world leader? Introduce a four-day chat about the 1992-93 season when 2. And the least? Admin; a personal weak working week. The Posh achieved their highest ever point and pretty dull to boot. league position (10th in Division One). 9. Name your desert island essentials? And finally, Siegfried Sassoon as his life 3. What is best advice you have ever My music collection (and stereo), my story from University ‘drop out’, through received? Advice I was offered, but signed and framed Peterborough United a period as a gentleman of leisure, elected to ignore; don’t try plastering shirt, my guitar, Natalie Imbruglia and the to being an MC winner, and on to his your own walls, they’ll look rubbish. makings of a few years’ worth of G&Ts. famous letter accusing the Government They did…. of prolonging the First World War, 10. What food would you choose for would all form the basis of a good 4. Describe yourself in six words? Loyal, your last supper? If it was my last night, conversation. dry, realist, not, clever, enough. I’d skip the food and head straight to the pub. If they happened to be serving food 13. What one piece of music would you 5. What career would you have followed when I got there, I’d squeeze in bangers like played at your funeral? ‘Just Like if you had not pursued your current ‘n’ mash. Honey’, by Jesus and Mary Chain (from profession? I didn’t consider much else, their jaw-droppingly good debut album but something to do with skiing or music 11. Who do you most admire in the world? Psychocandy). would have been great. Ahem, my wife. 14. How would you like to be 6. Is there one piece of criticism that 12. Name four people you would remembered? A decent sort of chap sticks in your mind? ‘This is the worst like as a dinner guest – and why? who made a reasonable fist of things, essay I have ever seen. Was it written Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth guitarist) hampered only by a lack of talent, oh and on the way to school whilst riding pillion for his encyclopaedic knowledge of a wheelbarrow and an axe...

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 27 Oakham Tyre Co. Ltd MILL VIEW MOTORS EUROCARD Servicing & repairs to all makes & models TYRE AND EXHAUST FITTING CENTRE Open Monday - Friday 8am - 5.30pm 24 HOUR EMERGENCY Open Saturday 8am - 1pm AUTO GAS NOW AVAILABLE BREAKDOWN RECOVERY MOT Arranged, Calor Gas Station Road, Oakham, Rutland. Servicing now available Tel: (01572) 722599 New or Remould Tyres supplied CALL FREE 0800 056 0612 All types and makes of tyres supplied 23 Stamford Rd., Easton-On-The-Hill, Stamford PE9 3NS www.oakhamtyres.co.uk [email protected]

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28 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 ased in the rural town of Stamford in Lincolnshire, Stamford Photo Also available for on location family portraits, events, parties from £75. Express is now in its 14th year and has recently moved to bigger Come and chat to us instore or call 01780 763659. Also school portrait and brighter premises! Now located at 45 Broad St, we are just up headshots, product photography and corporate headshots for businesses and the street from our old site. business websites. BAs the only independent outlet in Stamford, we pride ourselves on the range Personalised vouchers are available - treat yourself or someone you know. and quality of the photo work we produce and the high level of customer Maybe you know someone who’s just had a baby or try to get the whole family service we offer. together etc etc!

We offer all aspects of digital and film processing and printing. We offer A portrait is £20. Flat fee - for one baby or a family of 6. When a the personal touch to our customer service and because every single image customer books a portrait sitting we will set aside a one hour slot with Jo, our is independently checked, the quality of work produced is extremely high; photographer who has more than 10 years experience. you will be amazed at just how good your photographs are when printed correctly. We do not simply push a button and apply the same setting to The portraits we do are generally ‘fun’ - not formal, we go for a more relaxed every photograph. We treat your pictures exactly as if they were our own. approach so that includes kids jumping in the air or piling on top of the parents Every aspect of work is carried out instore by our team of skilled printers. Your or wearing dressing up clothes. A selection of images will be taken - everyone precious photos stay onsite. together, kids individually, any shots the client requires.

Do you have old, ripped photos that need restoring? Or a box of slides that The customer will generally end up with around 50 photos on a disc in a you would like bringing up to date and digitally archived? We offer a full presentation box that will be ready for their collection approx 1 week later. The image restoration, manipulation and digital archiving service at very competitive images are watermarked (faintly) for copyright reasons. The customer has their prices. Or maybe you’ve come across old cine films, VHS tapes and need them own ‘slideshow’ in the comfort of their own home on your PC or DVD player transferring to DVD, we can do that too. - there is no ‘hard sell viewing’ in our studio. It is then up to the customer to make their reprint orders. Print sizes range from locket size to A1. If you are looking for a portrait in the Stamford area then look no further than Stamford Portrait Studio as your first choice. We now have a bigger and better photo studio within Stamford Photo Express. We take professional quality Not sure what to do with your photos after? photographs of you, your family and friends or children. Need something a little special? We offer an ‘aftercare’ service whereby you can book a time to discuss a We always strive to offer competitive rates and we carry out all printing on- site offering fast and controlled completion of work. We provide a relaxed montage, layout and framing options with Jo. child-friendly environment and create a fun atmosphere to ensure that your Visit our websites: www.stamfordportraitstudio.co.uk children (and yourselves!) look relaxed and happy in your photos. All printing and www.stamfordphotoexpress.com and processing is done and controlled by us on site. This means we have a 45 Broad St, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 1PX considerably quicker turnaround time than most studios and we can maintain our own high standards of printing. 01780 763659

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 29 TEA BREAK TIME For the answers see page 31 Spot the Difference Can you spot the 10 differences in these two photographs?

Summer Wordsearch To Win Training Accessories Complete the wordsearch to find the word not included, fill in the entry slip on page 31 and submit to Sqn Ldr Liz Corry, SO2 FGW Ops, to be in with a chance of winning some training accessories.

L O B B G N I M M I W S

O I I A I B R M X E L M

T T K U L X R A C B A M

I N I R C O F R F E G F

O I N O R B C C R W T A

Ball Relax N A I T Y N K C U G F X Beach Sand Bikini Sea R E T S A W E I S L E B Holiday Sun R S A N D C X L E R A I Ice Cream Surf

Lotion Swimming I N U P I M M R T L Y K

E U D N L K W M L X G N Deadline for competition 20 July, 2012. Entries C Y F G O T M S W I I M to Sqn Ldr Liz Corry, SO2 FGW Ops. Y D L O H C A E B L L A

30 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 TEA BREAK TIME

Dingbats Quiz Olympics Quiz Can you identify the word or Just how good is your Olympic knowledge? phrase from the clues? We Don’t worry if you get stuck, you’ll find the have done the first one for you. answers at the bottom of the page.

1. Eye e = Answer - I before E, See except except after C

2. Sick Bird

3. 1,000,000 air

4. Doubles, doulbes, duboles

5. +EEEE Mountains

6. Calm storm

7. Lo n g due

8. chaWHOrge Q1. Which of these is not a Q5. How many times has the 9. Sailing sport that will feature at the UK hosted the Olympic games CCCCCCC 2012 Olympics? prior to 2012? A. Football A. 0 10. XEnglandrun B. Gymnastics B. 1 C. Rollerskating C. 2 D. Handball D. 3 Summer E. Cycling E. 4

Word Search Q2. In what year was the first Q6. Where do the Olympics Missing Word: ...... modern Olympics held? come from originally? A. 1912 A. UK B. 1856 B. Germany Name and Rank: ...... C. 1950 C. France D. 1896 D. Greece ...... E. 1916 E. Spain

Section: ...... Q3. The 2012 Olympics are Q7. How many countries took taking place in which UK city? part in the 2008 Olympics? ...... A. Birmingham A. 197 B. London B. 200 Ext: ...... C. Manchester C. 233 D. Cardiff D. 204 Deadline for competition 20 July,2012. Entries E. Edinburgh E. 268 to Sqn Ldr Liz Corry, SO2 FGW Ops

Q4. How many gold medals Q8. The Olympic motto is

1. C, 2. D, 3. B, 4. B, 5. C, 6. D, 7. D, 8. D. 8. D, 7. D, 6. C, 5. B, 4. B, 3. D, 2. C, 1. did team GB win at the 2008 Citus Altius Fortius. What

Olympic Answers: Olympic Beijing Olympics? does this mean in English? country run. country A. 24 A. Bigger, better, best

9.Sailing on the Seven Cs, 10.Cross 10.Cross Cs, Seven the on 9.Sailing B. 19 B. One world united

7.Long overdue, 8.Who’s in charge, charge, in 8.Who’s overdue, 7.Long

Mountains, 6.Calm before the storm, storm, the before 6.Calm Mountains, C. 7 C. Fair Play

3.Millionaire, 4.Mixed doubles, 5.Andes 5.Andes doubles, 4.Mixed 3.Millionaire, 1.I before E, except after C, 2.Illegal, 2.Illegal, C, after except E, before 1.I D. 15 D. Faster, Higher, Stronger

Dingbat Answers Dingbat E. 18 E. Winning is everything.

Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 31 HOME IMPROVEMENTS GARDENS | KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | INTERIORS | FIXTURES | FITTINGS

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Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 33 www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Armed Forces Day

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Thank You For Your Support

34 Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 www.armedforcesday.org.uk The Cycle Surgery Peterborough The best LOCAL cycle repair and parts centre. Run by a highly skilled and qualified cycle engineer.

Our Services Extensive parts and accessories in We repair and service all types of bike stock at very competitive prices!

• Bike service from £25.00 Regular Customer Discounts - • Puncture repairs, tyres and lights commuters, clubs and others fitted while you wait. Collection and delivery service • Buckled bike and motorbike wheels trued and rebuilt Secondhand bikes in tip top roadworthy condition! • Bought a bike in a box? Expert help is at hand! Our Commitment We are comitted to providing a professional, high quality and friendly service to all our customters - ensuring that your bike is both reliable and safe to ride

We will usually repair bikes no other shop will touch.

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Wittering View \\ Summer 2012 35