Stormtrooper My

Winter 2015 stery Solved | Southdo World W wn DevelopmentProgramme | Football Charitable Appeal ycombe The Magazine of RAF High ofRAFHigh The Magazine Wycombe World Spring 2017 ‘Luxury Coach Hire in Buckinghamshire’

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Winter 2015 Winter Wycombe Station Commander’s Foreword World World Contents Spring 2017 Group Captain Rob Woods OBE MA BEng (Hons) RAF

Since my arrival, I have already to be able to write my first been hugely impressed by the Foreword as the Commanding “can do” and very helpful attitude Officer, and encourage you all of all the staff here. This attitude is to both read the magazine, and exactly what a new Commanding importantly, to write articles Officer could wish for, and will for inclusion in it! The Editorial serve us well in the challenges we Team is always looking for new

SOUTHDOWN DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME | FOOTBALL TO AFRICA | BEYOND CHARITABLE APPEAL face in the coming months and material, so please think about years. Whilst buildings, systems what you could offer. Also, I offer and processes are important tools my thanks to all the organisations Editorial Team in what we do, ultimately it is that help fund the magazine OIC: Fg Off James Palfrey Ext 4454 people and the way in which we through their advertisements. Editor: Sophie Sheldon Ext 5414 On Wednesday 1st March, I took cooperate that dictates success. Deputy Editor: WO Claire Old Ext 5251 over from Group Captain Phil Based upon what I have seen thus As an engineer, I like to Distribution: Sgt Steve Monks Ext 4172 Lester as Commanding Officer far, we are very well placed indeed. understand how things work. Mailbox: HWY-EditorWycombeWorld@ of RAF High Wycombe. I have Over the coming weeks, I will mod.gov.uk known Phil for many years and, on We are also blessed with great build on my initial round of visits behalf of everyone at the Station support from the local community to better understand what each of Distribution Team and in the local communities, I – from my previous experience you do, how you do it and what Sgt Steve Monks Ext 4172 SAC Sebastian Marziano Ext 6311 would like to extend my personal as a Commanding Officer in ideas you have for the future. Cpl Julian Frost Ext 3337 appreciation for a thorough hand- South Wales, I recognise how Our success depends on using Cpl Adrian Catnach Ext 4071 over brief and for his outstanding vital strong relationships with our your full talents and allowing contribution. I am sure you will closest neighbours are, both to you to challenge requirements All articles are to be in ‘Word’ format join me in wishing him well for our effectiveness and our quality and constraints. I look forward to with separate JPEG images. the next chapter of his journey. of life. In our short time here, meeting you and listening to you. my wife Margaret and I have Designer: Lance Publishing Ltd As a serving member of the already been made to feel most What is certain is that RAF High Tel: (01536) 521126 RAF, I first came to work at High welcome, and look forward to Wycombe will continue to Email: danielle@ Wycombe almost 20 years ago continuing to build upon the play a vital role in enabling the lancepublishing.co.uk and have been a regular visitor excellent relationships that have operational outputs of the RAF ever since; moreover, as the son of flourished here over many years. and Defence. It is clearly the Advertising: Tammie Ridler retired member of the RAF, I have Station’s personnel – Regular, Tel: (01536) 526667 an association with Medmenham Having read some of the recent Reservist, Civilian or Contractor - Email: [email protected] that stretches back over 40 years! issues of Wycombe World, I have that will make this possible, but As such, I understand well the already seen the wide range I recognise too the invaluable 6 Change of Command 18 Chief of Defence People Published by: Lance Publishing Ltd Station’s rich and illustrious history, of interesting, informative and support that their families and Visit 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL and the mutually supporting well-written articles that appear the local community provide 7 Commanding Officer’s Tel: (01536) 512624 relationship between the Armed in each edition, and commend behind the scenes. As I begin Heritage Walk 19 Ladies Choir Fax: (01536) 515481 Forces and the local communities. all those who continue to make my tour of duty, I pledge my Email: [email protected] With that knowledge, I recognise invaluable contributions to this personal support to all of you 12 Padre’s Pause 19 The Command Performers www.lancepublishing.co.uk the honour and privilege it is to important source of knowledge to ensure that you can deliver assume this influential role. and experience. I am delighted against our shared goals. 12 Bridging the Gap 20 RAF Cricket Association Printed By: Lance Print Ltd Tel: (01733) 390 564 13 Stormtrooper Mystery 22 Live Music Club Editor’s Welcome Solved 23 Valentine’s Day Charity 13 Carers’ Network Bake Sale Submission Sophie Sheldon 14 Families Day 24 Football Charitable Deadline... Appeal All articles for the SUMMER I would like to take this often difficult to come by. I hope 14 Southdown Development ISSUE 2017 Edition to be sent opportunity to welcome the new that as the Network develops, Programme 26 Community Impact Bucks to the Editor no later than members of the Wycombe World it will feature more prominently 25th April 2017 to HWY-Editor Team: WO Claire Old, who is new in subsequent editions. 16 Visit to RAF Lakenheath 27 Armed Forces Covenant in WycombeWorld. Please send files to RAF High Wycombe and has Numbers as word documents with separate taken on the role of Deputy Editor, A special mention goes to the 16 Honours and Awards photos in the Jpeg format with and SAC Sebastian Marziano who former Editor of Wycombe World, 28 Ice Camp highest possible quality to HWY- joins the Distribution Team. FS Kerry Murphy-Brown. I am EditorWycombeWorld@mod. very grateful, both to Kerry and gov.uk. I hope that you will find something to the OIC, Fg Off James Palfrey, to inspire you within the pages of for entrusting me with taking this edition. I would like to draw this exceptional publication Welcome to the Spring Edition of particular attention to the piece forward. I wish Kerry all the Wycombe World. I am delighted on the Carers’ Network. Many very best in her new role. to be writing my first Editor’s of us have, or will have, caring Foreword as we witness a change responsibilities in our lives and Looking forward to receiving your of command at the Station. support, while much needed, is news for the Summer Edition soon!

The views expressed by the contributors to the Wycombe World are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander.

WW: 4 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WW: 5 Commanding Officer’s Heritage Walk

The Commanding Officer’s photos of Germany so that RAF event, with a total of 45 people Heritage Walk from Medmenham Medmenham, the home of the joining in the arduous 11-mile to Hughenden Manor on 1st Photographic Intelligence and walk. Teams were made up of March 2017 was part of the Interpretation Unit, could make sections from across the whole Station Commander’s handover. 3D models of potential German Station, including many civilians, Group Captain Lester was the targets. From these models, RAF and two very well behaved dogs main driving force behind the Bomber Command, code-named from the Joint Ground Based Air Heritage Walk scheme, setting Southdown, would send vital Defence (Jt GBAD) team. The up a Heritage Museum in the information to Hughenden walk started at the Medmenham Oakeshott Centre on 3 Site which Manor, a Top Secret intelligence Quarters, with the teams setting details all the history and displays unit code-named Hillside, where off at two-minute intervals. There a range of memorabilia. the information and maps were were challenges along the way The walk actually spans over 45 finalised and passed to RAF and that each group had to complete, Change of Command miles between RAF Benson, what USAAF Bomber Commands from answering questions about used to be RAF Medmenham, to carry out their raids. Targets the route, to completing tasks at RAF High Wycombe Hughenden Manor and RAF included the Ruhr Valley Dams within a certain time frame. Bomber Command. (attacked in the Dambusters raid), RAF Benson was the home of the supports for the D-Day landings n 1st March 2017, after During his tenure, Group “It is an honour and a privilege abilities and ideas continue Photographic Reconnaissance and the German battleship Tirpitz. almost two years to Captain Lester has overseen to take post as the Station to be harnessed across every Squadrons, who took the It was a terrific Whole Force Othe day in post, Group a number of significant Commander at RAF High aspect of what we do. RAF High Captain Phil Lester stepped improvements to RAF High Wycombe, particularly as we Wycombe’s mission to support down as Station Commander Wycombe, such as increasing approach the 100th anniversary operations both at home and RAF High Wycombe and handed community relations through of the formation of the Royal away remains vital, and I will over command to Group cultural engagement; Air Force next year. Group endeavour to maintain the Captain Rob Woods. During the improving childcare Captain Lester has done a tempo and focus of that support handover, the Group Captains facilities and support; and fantastic job in bringing the throughout my tour of duty”. undertook visits across the improving security for those Station to where it is today; he RAF High Wycombe estate, at RAF High Wycombe. and his team have achieved a We wish Group Captain Lester including outings to local great deal during his tenure”. a safe and rewarding tour in his community facilities and Service With the last two Station new appointment, and look Families Accommodation. Commanders coming from He added: forward to seeing the Station They also visited the Mayor the RAF Regiment, the Station continue to be at the centre of High Wycombe, Councillor will now be commanded “The Station has an of our local community, Zia Ahmed, to affirm the by an engineer, and Group abundance of talented providing unstinting support Station’s commitment to Captain Woods was keen people - Service, Civilian to those we parent under local engagement after the to recognise the successes and Contractors - and I the command of Group Change of Command. of his predecessor: want to ensure that their Captain Woods. The first Checkpoint was at Munday Dean Farm, where groups were tasked with spelling out the name of the new Station Commander using body parts only. Wiktoria Pawlak/shutterstock © Wiktoria

The route took the teams through some of the beautiful surrounding countryside. On the day, we were lucky enough to have the weather hold out, as it was mainly dry and sunny, although some of the paths were still extremely muddy from the rain fall from the previous day. We all finished with some cake and hot beverages at the Hughenden Manor Café, seeing the last of the tasks being completed: a cracker challenge with both Station Commanders taking part. The day was a great success, seeing team Tag Alongs (Manning and Police) take the title. WW: 8 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 TACK SHOP Britania Motor Company 3 Dodds Corner, New Road, Stokenchurch, Bucks HP14 3RZ MOT tyres car repairs t: 01494 484106 e: [email protected] and servicing w: dobbinsclobber.co.uk We have over 18 years of experience • Quality Tack, clothing and accessories in the MOT and Tyre sales business • Riding hat and body protectors with fitting service and have traded in the High Wycombe • Rug cleaning and repairs area throughout that time • Clippers serviced and blades sharpened Unit 11 Britania Industrial Park, OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 10am - 6.30pm, Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. HP12 3ES Closed for lunch 1.30 - 2pm, Sun closed. Ample FREE parking 5 mins from junction 5 of M40 Tel: 01494 523385 Web: britaniamotors.co.uk

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Shoe Repairs, Think Print To advertise in Key Cutting, the next issue of Lance Print is an established printers based Sports Trophies in Peterborough. At Lance we combine this publication, & Engraving skill, experience & knowledge to provide a complete professional service. please contact We aim to fill our clients with confidence Also dry cleaning in the knowledge that any work Tammie undertaken by us, will be completed & watch batteries to the highest possible standard. Tel: Call Today: 01536 526667 (01733) 390564 27 High Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE Email: Tel: 01844 274651 tammie@ Email: [email protected] www.lanceprint.co.uk lancepublishing.co.uk Carers’ Padre’s Pause You are invited to... Stormtrooper arch definitely heralds temperate months of the year. Network the beginning of spring. After all is said and done, we are Mystery Solved MAfter the long nights, and part of that cycle of birth and the cold and often wet weather of rebirth that we see in creation. So the winter months, it is a welcome perhaps we should go with the ou may be forgiven for thinking that difficult, he can’t bend his legs normally, change. When the weather is flow and make the most of this you were ‘in a galaxy far far away’ put on his trainers himself or see very unpleasant, it is all too easy to stay fresh perspective on the world. Yrecently, if you had seen a rather well. The suits cuts and chafes and he indoors in the warmth, especially unusual sight running along the streets also struggles with eating and drinking. if outdoors is more of a challenge So when days are brighter, and of High Wycombe and Naphill. Reports However, the discomfort is entirely worth than a pleasure. evenings are increasingly lighter, have been coming in from all over the area it if it means that more money is getting take the opportunity to get out about a mystery Stormtrooper running raised for the extremely worthwhile With this kind of winter and enjoy all that is springing into for anyone and everyone wanting to get away and waving at everyone he sees. Fear not, children’s charity, Make A Wish UK. ‘hibernation’ comes all sorts of new life. We are very blessed in this he isn’t a ‘Rogue One’; Wycombe World illnesses and bugs that seem to part of the country to have such for a break on a Friday morning have discovered that the runner, who He has set himself a target of £10,000. linger and are sometimes difficult beautiful countryside surrounding simply likes to be known as ‘The Running However, Stormtroopers aren’t known for to shake off. Often the physical us, for walking, cycling, running, Stormtrooper’, is in fact in training for hitting their targets, therefore he is hoping malaise is mirrored in the mental or getting out on, or in, the water. for coffee or tea and cake some long distance runs whilst raising that the kind readers of Wycombe World state and people can all too The world is inviting you to enjoy money for the wonderful children’s charity will help him hit his! quickly feel like things are getting the new life emerging in the on Make A Wish UK. out of control and on top of them. countryside around us. Why not take the chance to shake off all Friday mornings We have discovered that he is the same It has been said that the first few that winter has meant to us and trooper who was seen running around For more details about the Running months of the year are the most get out there and see your life from between 9.15am until 11.30am Odiham and Benson last year and even Stormtrooper, visit his Facebook difficult from a mental health a new, and hopefully different and featured in a video that went viral on the Page ‘Make A Star Wars Wish’. A network of people who have the perspective. The change to positive, perspective? Internet. responsibility of looking after family British Summer Time seems to To donate on his justgiving page, or friends has been established at RAF fast forward the process of the Happy spring! In 2016, he managed to raise a staggering visit www.justgiving.com/rogueone High Wycombe. coming of spring and before we in the Station Church Lounge area, £6,000 for Make A Wish UK. However, To send a text message donation know it – it is well and truly here. not satisfied with last year’s efforts, he now whilst you are reading this, It is an opportunity for Serving Having said this, the unseasonably 3 Site, RAF High Wycombe has ‘A New Hope’ and has decided to simply text JAWA77£1-10 to 70070. Personnel, Civil Servants and their mild winter has made it feel like up his game this year: He will once You can send anything from £1 to friends to share, in a mutually spring sprung a long time ago. again be attempting to run the London £10 per text, but aren’t limited to supportive place, their experiences of For whatever reason, the signs of For more information, please contact Marathon (23rd April), where he intends the number of texts you can send! caring for loved ones at home or in spring around us seem to evoke a to set a World Record (Fastest Marathon other places. The first gathering of the more positive view on life. Maybe it Community Support on in Stormtrooper Armour). If that’s not To follow him on social media, check Network showed how much a meeting has something to do with the way enough, to celebrate the 40th anniversary out @StormtrooperRun on Twitter of people who are carers is needed. that nature finds a new energy 01494 – 494481/497831 of Star Wars (1977-2017), he will be or Stormtrooper_Run on Instagram. The group discussed what is important and vibrancy in the warmer, more Padre Mike Hall strapping on his armour one more time For more details about Make A Wish, in a network and how they can help and will attempt to run 40 miles around visit www.make-a-wish.org.uk each other through it. With such a the world famous Pinewood Studios! He wide variety of circumstances and explains that running in the armour is experiences of those who made up the first meeting, the Network has much Bridging the Gap to offer individuals in need of support, as well as a greater awareness of how important this is to the community of RAF High Wycombe. If you find yourself in a place where you are caring for a family member or a friend, whether they are ill, elderly or Dental unable to look after themselves, then maybe the Network could give you that support, information and signposting, listening ear and the all-important cup of tea or coffee and cake to help keep you going. Centre © Sashkin/shutterstock Check on ‘Announcements’ for details of ith many people Whether you are using patches, risk of oral cancer can be reduced the next Network gathering. struggling to keep their gum or any other form – you by one third after stopping WNew Year’s resolution should use them for 12 weeks. smoking, and gum disease can be Padre Mike Hall. to stop smoking, the Dental This is how long it takes for your stopped from progressing further, Centre is the perfect place to body to stop craving the nicotine, although once the bone has been offer help and support. That’s and coming off any sooner may lost it cannot be replaced – so the why Cpl Michelle Robinson result in you having a relapse. earlier you can quit, the better! has recently completed a But don’t be too disheartened two-day Smoking Cessation if you didn’t succeed this time. Cpl Robinson’s door is Advisors course to ensure we It takes the average smoker always open for advice and are giving you, as our patients, 4-5 failed quit attempts support for anyone thinking the best treatment possible. before they stop for good! about quitting. Please don’t struggle on your own. Did you know that you are Wednesday 8th March was twice as likely to succeed using National No Smoking Day, and we Continuing from last issue, here Nicotine Replacement Therapy made ourselves visible around 3 is No. 3 Top Tip for Nervous (NRT)? And four times more likely Site in @3 Café to talk to people Patients! Your first appointment if you attend weekly support and educate them about the will usually be a simple check- sessions too? One of the biggest different ways to quit, as well up – so don’t worry about mistakes people can make when as what services we can offer. any ‘painful’ treatment– see attempting to crack the habit is Dentally, our main concerns are this visit as your chance to to come off the NRT too early. oral cancer and gum disease. The get to know the dentist! © Africa Studio/shutterstock

WW: 12 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WW: 13 Families Day Southdown

RAF High Wycombe Development Families Day 9th–10th June 2017 Programme AF High Wycombe Families Day is being held in conjunction with the local Village RFete (NAPFEST 2017) on 9th and 10th June 2017. Get the dates booked into your diaries. This year, the theme is ‘At the Seaside’, so roll up your trouser legs, knot those hankies, dust off the bucket and spade and head down to the Naphill Crick for a weekend of family fun more importantly, provide a safe, ‘Thinking to Win’ strategy.” and entertainment. constructive learning environment. Group Captain Philip Lester said: “There are currently four traditional barriers associated Starting Friday evening 9th June 2017 at 6pm, RAF High Wycombe pushes cohorts, each comprising 15 with normal military activity we have the Live Music on the Crick. The developmental boundaries! “The Royal Air Force’s presence personnel and each running and allows all members to is incredibly important that music is suitable for all ages, from toddler to at Naphill and Walter’s Ash is for a year. The programme is be intellectually stimulated. we invest in our people to grandmother, so come along and strut your AF High Wycombe has approaching its 80th Anniversary. made up of academic lectures; Personnel are actively ensure that we retain the right funky stuff. Don’t forget that there will be a launched a new programme This was a result of the Top Secret discussion forums; book encouraged to challenge each people in the right place so Mentoring in Defence Course bar and food stalls. Tickets for the evening can Rto allow personnel the project, code-named SOUTHDOWN, reviews; fireside chats by senior other’s views and opinions. that, ultimately, we can support and Defence Academy Master be purchased through the HIVE (3 site) or the opportunity to develop awareness in 1938 to relocate Bomber leadership; an historical staff operations around the world”. Classes, giving personnel a Wheel Public House (Naphill). of air power, as well as skills in Command to High Wycombe. The ride; participation in the RAF’s The Station Training unique external view on some leadership and personal resilience. reason this location was chosen for Air Combat Power Visit to RAF Officer, Flight Lieutenant Flight Lieutenant Lancaster, in of the issues that confront Saturday 10th June 2017 is the Families Day/ what is now RAF High Wycombe can Coningsby; and a visit to RAFs Lorraine Lancaster, said: conjunction with the Station Defence. Combined with the Annual Village Fete starting with the procession The programme’s name, with be attributed to innovative thinking Mildenhall and Lakenheath to Commander, is responsible for Resilience Awareness course from the Scout hut at 12:00hrs, where our Fete its close ties to the original Top and novel design, maximising get an insight into the United “From a training perspective, the design of the programme, run by the Station Padre, it Prince and Princess will officially open the Secret programme to locate HQ the use of the local geography, States 21st century air power there has been a lot of work along with its implementation. allows personnel to cover a proceedings. All afternoon, the Arena will host Bomber Command at RAF High demography and environment. I’ve delivery. The purpose of the put into the programme to The programme utilises broad spectrum of topics, various entertainment, including a Dog Show Wycombe, symbolises the “out introduced a programme at RAF development programme is ensure that we provide the lectures provided by including the contemporary and don’t forget the amazing stalls and rides. of the box” thinking that the High Wycombe using the same to provide an opportunity best developmental Dr. Dave Sloggett, security landscape; leadership; programme is trying to promote. name, Southdown, open to RAF for inquisitive, like-minded, forum for people to an internationally- air power; mentoring and In 2016, the Royal Air Force input from High Personnel, Civil Servants and Civilian whole force personnel to build new skills recognised authority personal resilience awareness. Wycombe was invaluable; it helped make the Southdown was brought about Contractors alike, so that they can exchange ideas, analyse, assess and improve on subjects of SAC Ashleigh Clarke said: event a roaring success. If you can help to not only to commemorate the key enjoy a series of developmental and challenge contemporary existing counter-terrorism, show case the Royal Air Force in any way please historical event, but also because the and thought-provoking forums defence and security themes, ones. It counter-insurgency “The Southdown Air Power contact Linda Clark ([email protected]. Station Commander, Group Captain that explore geopolitical, defence so that individuals can and counter- piracy. The Programme offers me a chance uk), whether it is in the form of an airpower Philip Lester, recognised that it is and air power themes. The maximise their contribution Southdown Programme to broaden my horizons on demonstration, the history of the Royal Air key for commanders of all levels Southdown Development to our Air Force as we go has allowed personnel to a variety of subjects that Force or demonstrating the capabilities of your to develop their personnel and, Programme dovetails into the RAF’s forward in the 21st century.’’ learn from the 36 years of you don’t necessarily get Branch/Trade Group. experience that Dr. Sloggett to study in your job role.” Over 90 personnel are currently brings, in turn enabling a If you would like to hold a stall at the Fete, no involved in the development ‘Thinking to Win’ mentality. “The main benefit of matter how big or small, or if you have any programme, with each of the Southdown for me is that form of entertainment that you would like to four cohorts comprising The programme also takes it helps me develop my showcase in the Arena, please email the Fete personnel of varying advantage of some of the leadership skills and also gives Committee on [email protected] for ranks from SAC to lessons already provided by the me more knowledge of the further information. Wing Commander. Defence Academy, such as the RAF by going to the fireside The programme chats in the Officers’ Mess”. breaks down The programme will run for a year. It provides continued development for its personnel, of all ranks, enabling air- centric thinking throughout RAF High Wycombe. Yuganov Konstantin/shutterstock © Yuganov

WW: 14 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WW: 15 Visit to RAF High Wycombe KEEP MOTORING RAF Lakenheath HIGH STREET GARAGE PRINCES RISBOROUGH Protected Aircraft Shelter (PAS) with Servicing and Repairs • MOT Testing • ALL ABOARD! an F-15C. At this point, the group Honours received a short brief from Lt Col Engine Management Systems • ell, not really – the Brian Knaus on the jet and got the Air Conditioning • Fault Diagnosis 33 members of the opportunity to speak to a number WSouthdown Visit to RAF of the ‘maintainers’, without whom Awards • Valeting + plus more... Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall on jets don’t fly. Although the F-15s Thursday 16th February certainly have been at Lakenheath since FREE MOT with any major service or spent a lot of time aboard their 1992, the chance to get up close The Station& has seen a through and a testament to the coach but this was due, in no small does not come very often. This number of awards given to ethos that the RAF holds dear”. part, to traffic problems on some soon revealed that the aircraft its personnel, including the FREE AIRCON REGAS SERVICE of the Nation’s busiest stretches of is bigger than is first thought Imperial Service Medal on behalf With RAF High Wycombe having with any major service motorways delaying their arrival and this may explain in part why of Her Majesty The Queen. Air Command located within it, • Fully qualified technicians and compressing their visit. people may misjudge the height there are many Service Personnel at which it flies over them. During On 21st February 2017, RAF High who go above and beyond what • More than 30 years combined experience The group, led by Group Captain the briefing, the group were also Wycombe held its Honours and is required of them and deserve • Very competitive rates Opening Lester and amply demonstrating exposed to the ‘Lakenheath Pause’ Awards Ceremony at the Officers’ recognition. The Station runs • 24/7 recovery service available Hours the range of skills and experience – a local phenomenon where a Mess. With family, friends and as many Honours and Awards • Keep Motoring are members of Mon to Fri to be found in an organisation in conversation is interrupted, often Service Personnel in attendance, ceremonies as is necessary, 8am to 6pm tune with the ‘Whole Force’ concept, multiple times, by the sound the ceremony recognises the with the next one only a month thegoodgaragescheme.co.uk were eventually shown on arrival of aircraft passing overhead – dedication and commitment away. This ceremony saw some into the Large Wing Conference rendering communication difficult, that these individuals show on of the increasingly rarer awards Room in the 48 Fighter Wing if not downright impossible. a daily basis. There were over being presented. For instance, Headquarters at RAF Lakenheath. 11 awards in total, with one the Long Service and Good Call Here, they met up with Colonel Following the visit to the PAS (and Team Commendation, four AOC Conduct Medal needs a 15 years’ Dave Eaglin, the Vice Commander ahead of lunch) Squadron Leader Commendations, four Long unblemished disciplinary record; and were introduced to the role and Jerry Neild, the RAF Commander at Service and Good Conduct the Royal Warrant requires years of 01844 organisation of the Wing. Lakenheath, hosted a windshield Medals, two Royal Warrants and experience and positive promotion tour of the largest RAF airfield in the Imperial Service Medal. recommendations; and the The Wing Mission Brief video, lasting the UK. He pointed out some of Imperial Service Medal is awarded 275566 a few short minutes, highlighted the limitations and restrictions that The Presenting Officer was Mrs. to an individual who has dedicated the mission and how it is met. It will affect the multi-million dollar Soames, the High Sheriff of over 40 years to the Civil Service. [email protected] surprised some of the visitors development already identified Buckinghamshire. She said: www.keep-motoring.com when they realised the size of the as the Station prepares for the The Station now looks operation at RAF Lakenheath, which arrival of USAF F-35 aircraft, and “It is fantastic to hear the exploits forward to its next ceremony 23-25 High St, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE currently supports 76 fixed wing a significant increase in the total that these people have gone and all that it brings. and five rotary wing combat aircraft. complement of both combat RAF Lakenheath also hosts the aircraft and personnel based there. United States Air Force in Europe (USAFE)’s largest hospital, charged with looking after the USAF’s most After driving by hospital, dormitory precious asset, its personnel. This and recreational facilities, the it does in conjunction with the group experienced the dining THE WHEEL National Health Service, finding facilities available on base, seeing synergies and opportunities for first hand that our American cooperation to the benefit of both military colleagues do know parties. how to queue, and eventually partaking of sustenance ahead of However, a Conference Room is their afternoon visit to nearby RAF Naphill just a Conference Room and the Mildenhall. The visit was expertly group left shortly after to go and coordinated by Lt Elias Small and a A Traditional English Pub Purveyors of Fine Ale see some of the real ‘hardware’ small cadre of military personnel of based on RAF Lakenheath, visiting a the 48 FW Public Affairs office. Good Beer Guide 2007-2016 - Camra Winners 2011 and 2016

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WW: 16 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 The Command Chief of Defence People RAF High Wycombe Performers t’s possible that the role of and Air Member for Personnel); Chief of Defence People Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot (Chief Visit to Air Command Ladies Imay be one of the toughest of Staff Personnel) and myself jobs there is, and not just in (Fiona White, Head of Secretariat connection to those people who in both the Secretary of State’s Defence. The post of CDP was and Civilian Workforce). As served Defence in the past and office and the Permanent created to bring Civilian and you might expect, we talked that, regardless of how senior Secretary’s, being quizzed Service Personnel Policy in about Civil Service and RAF in an organisation we might about progress on a number Defence together to deliver, as recruitment; retention; diversity; become, we can still be excited of fronts. That too, though, he the vision says: “Defence outputs and addressing manning pinch by the prospect of seeing a little saw as a positive, as a sign that delivered by the right mix of points. We also talked numbers: piece of history! By this point we in amongst a busy agenda for capable and motivated people for the Civil Service, addressing were, of course, now running Defence and the Government, he Drama Club at RAF High Wycombe is called ‘The that represent the breadth of the challenge set out in the completely behind time as we the people issues remain at Calling all Ladies! Command Performers’. We rehearse and perform in the society we exist to defend, Strategic Defence and Security tried to move the party on to the forefront of their minds. Tthe Oakeshott Centre. We are a long-established and now and in the future.” Review to reduce the civilian the next part of a more detailed well- equipped club. Like most RAF Theatre Clubs, we are workforce by 30%; and for the discussion on RAF people issues I think, overall, that CDP was The RAF High Wycombe Ladies Choir are affiliated to the RAF Theatrical Association, and we take Getting exactly the right people RAF, getting the right numbers with the COS Personnel team. impressed by what he saw, looking for new members and are holding a part in their competitions and have won many awards in you need, with the right skills, of people with the right skills. and the efforts being made by the past, including the ‘Premier Drama Club in RAFTA’ in in the right place, both today The final stop was an open Air Command to tackle some New Members’ Night 2015. Last year, we produced a very funny and successful and tomorrow, making sure we It was also an opportunity to talk forum Town hall in the Spitfire difficult and important people on Wednesday 19th April 2017 full-length play, ‘Forget-Me-Knot’, about a man who said reflect society, and all to deliver about Air Command’s approach Auditorium. CDP talked about issues. Whilst we wouldn’t claim from 19:00-20:30hrs in the he had lost his memory, but maybe hadn’t. We also did an the outputs, is a far from easy task to people issues and how we’re his priorities and, whilst there to always get it right, we’re intriguing one-act play entitled ‘Sure Thing’ about a man in any organisation – and, let’s trying to draw our thinking are many issues vying for his asking the right questions. Station Church on 3 Site. trying various lines to attract a girl. We took ‘Sure Thing’ to face it, Defence is complicated together on a cross-workforce attention, it’s the things that the annual RAFTA One Festival at Shrivenham, where we and our business a serious one. basis. This is something that’s are going to affect people The final note of recognition performed alongside other RAF Clubs. And finally, we did Added to that is the fact that, like early days, but really important as on a day-to-day basis that should go to all those involved It will be a fun night where you can come along and see a one-act play called ‘Three Tables’, where three couples in most organisations, we’re having we think about the future shape are at the top of his list. in organising the visit (weather different stages of their relationship are all having a meal to change and evolve, all of and size of the organisation. aside). All the work that goes in what you sound like outside of the shower!! There will in a restaurant. which affects people. As if all that How do we continue to build Firstly, the Future Defence to arranging the programme; be no pressure, no auditions, no singing on your own; wasn’t complicated enough, our a ‘one team’ environment in Civilian Programme, which is and then re-arranging the just a chance to have a great evening singing alongside We are now planning and auditioning for this year. Like organisation is made up of a Civil which Civil Service, Service and how we’re approaching the programme; running around a lovely group of ladies. There will also be a chance all Service clubs, we are affected by postings, so we are Service and three Single Services, Contractor personnel remain SDSR commitment to reduce on the day revising the timings to socialise afterwards with cakes and refreshments always looking for new members and not just actors. all of which own different pieces ‘different’ but all pull in the the workforce, but also about when we all go off track; getting We also welcome people who have computer skills; of the puzzle and who, within same direction for Defence, what the offer is for our Civil passes; making sure there’s tea provided, so you can get to know each other and we would like to operate sound or lights; build sets; find or a single Defence team, quite particularly as the organisation Servants in the future. How and coffee; and much more in can answer any questions you may have. make costumes or props; or be front of house. We have rightly have their own identities, changes? Most importantly, how do we make sure that we act generally making the whole experienced directors so you do not need experience, just histories and perspectives. do we communicate effectively as one team, and reward and thing look straightforward. The choir is open to all ladies with a connection to enthusiasm. It is a friendly club and we have lots of fun. with our people, across such recognise our people more As ever, it’s our people that You might have thought that a diverse workforce, across a effectively? This is something determine how an organisation RAF High Wycombe; Serving Personnel, Civil Servants, this all might be enough to huge geographic spread and that resonated with our work at ticks and whether a visit goes permanent contractors, wives, partners, daughters, put someone off the job, but in such changing times? Air in trying to maximise every smoothly or not, so thank you. mothers, sisters or any of the above. CDP is clear that, for all its available tool at our disposal, . difficulties, it’s something that Already running late on the from Commendations to Special The choir meet between 19:00 - 20:30hrs every he’s passionate about. So when programme and the next stop Bonuses. He also talked at length he visited Air Command on a wet was the HR Business Partners. For about programmes such as Wednesday in the Station Church on 3 Site. and windy January day (sadly those who haven’t met them, the Future Accommodation whilst the visit was planned these are Air’s Civil Service HR Model, what they were designed with precision, the weather experts who work alongside the to achieve, and how he saw For more information, contact: was less accommodating) it Command to help us deliver them being implemented. Flt Lt Sam Broderick ([email protected]); was an opportunity for him against our people priorities. As to talk to the Air Command a team they report in to CDP’s Finally, diversity in the workplace ([email protected]); Ext 6584 team about tackling some of organisation, but very much form and the very real need to make Flt Lt Katie Adcock ([email protected]); Defence’s people challenges. part of the team here at Air. After sure that we meet our moral ([email protected]); Ext 6826 It was also an opportunity for this, as all good visits should, obligation to represent the or Flt Lt Anne Nicholson (Air-COSPers-PolSCTCaseMgr8SO3@ us to talk to him about Air’s there was the moment of ‘detour’ society Defence defends, but approach to people issues. when the visiting party took the also to make sure that we have mod.uk); ([email protected]); Ext 3882 opportunity afforded by being access to talent from wherever First stop was an office call in Lancaster building to visit the it comes. He was open about Find us on Facebook: RAF High Wycombe Ladies Choir with Air Marshal Sean Reynolds Bomber Harris Room. Even that, the fact that he currently (Deputy Commander Capability though, was a reminder of our spends a great deal of his time

Forget-Me-Knot in rehearsal – not all plays are this painful!

If you would like to find out more, please contact Ellis Artus on 07990 546339 or [email protected]

WW: 18 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WW: 19 Royal Air Force

Cricket Association © Milos Kontic/shutterstock ith RAF Cricket preparing Army. Having accumulated 150 ourselves to take on the Army in 40-Over: for the 2017 Season, against the Army we were unable to two days’ time. The game against In the build-up to the Inter- Where’s a look back at prevent them from chasing down the Army was a completely different Services we played two matches. what we achieved last year. what was a good score. Given story. Having lost the toss, and The match against MCC was, the short boundary at Lord’s, it is being put into bat on what was a as always, a learning curve. We Men’s always very difficult to defend, as has completely underprepared pitch, struggled with wickets, and again been proven over the last couple we capitulated and were bowled battled on for the full 40 overs, but The RAF Season is broken down of years. Our performance against out for less than 100, with the Army struggled to meet their target. into two parts, the T-20 format and the Navy was exceptional, which claiming victory by eight wickets. the 50- Over format. The Season was a credit to all the players given The overall synopsis for the 2016 What it allowed us to do was to is structured around the Inter the defeat against the Army. We Season is one of disappointment, get all our batsmen a chance to Services (IS) at Lord’s, and we as accumulated a huge score of over given the fact that we failed to spend time at the wicket, which an association are tied to the date 200, which the Navy never got near, win either of the IS competitions. four players had never done. We that the Marylebone Cricket Club and we won the game with ease. We played some good Cricket at then played Kempston, who are (MCC) offer us in order to host the times, and there have been some also a developing side. We bowled competition. The T-20 at Lord’s in 50-Over: promising performances from them all out and then subsequently 2016 was exceptionally early (May) The 50-Over format proved very some individuals who are new beat their target. The team took a and, as such, all our T-20 Cricket was similar to the T-20 performances. to the scene. We expect good tremendous amount of confidence played during that month. This gave We played some good Cricket at things from them in the future. from this result. On such a fantastic us a break from Cricket throughout times against some good sides. ground as Larkhill, the RN showed us June until the start of our 50- Over We won four fixtures of six and Women’s how to bat and put on an amazing Cricket at the beginning of July, probably should have won the 329 for 3, which was difficult for culminating in the IS at Portsmouth two fixtures we lost. Given the T-20: us to attain. Positives to take from during the first week of August. limited fixtures and availability of In the build-up to T-20, we were it were that we had a group of players, it’s very difficult to maintain struggling to find teams to play the players who had taken a journey T-20: a consistent side and gel together T-20 format, as their T-20 Season was to better themselves and showed The T-20 Season on the whole was as much as one would like. not until the end of July/August. We a positive approach to the game. relatively successful, producing some were therefore limited to a couple This was commented on by both good solid performances. Given Inter-Services: of matches against High Wycombe the Army and Navy who praised our the limited fixtures that we had and Historically, our performances at Ladies, where we mixed the teams improved approach to the game. the preparation time afforded to Portsmouth have been quite good. up to ensure a full 11 on the pitch. us (T-20 IS May) we were in a good We began our quest to become Whilst the results on paper from Overall, we have viewed this Season, place entering the IS at Lord’s. The IS champions against the Navy. the Inter-Services Tournament and 2017, as a development run of play at Lord’s consisted of us Having won the toss and electing looked like a whitewash, we took season, in order to build a squad playing the Army in the first instance to bowl, we immediately got stuck a number of positives from it. We skilled enough to compete at and the losers from that game then into the Navy batting line-up, to need to be more positive in our Inter-Services level. We have playing the Navy. Unfortunately, it such an extent that the Navy only approach ,and more aggressive looked at a number of areas that was us who played the Navy! Our managed to accumulate 114 runs. in both bowling and batting. Our we can improve on and will look performances at Lord’s were solid, We very quickly secured victory new players performed well and to develop them next season. but not good enough to beat the against the Navy and prepared as ever the fielding was good. The Women’s game will be benchmarked against the RAF Women’s Rugby Team, and we look to follow their path to success. Playing Cricket is great fun and, from a social perspective, it is sometimes more fun to watch. To play representative sport for your Service is an utter privilege, and there are some fantastic opportunities out there for both the established Men’s team and the developing Women’s team. In fact, we have just had six RAF players represent the United Kingdom Armed Forces Cricket Association on a tour of Malaysia and Singapore. There is also the opportunity to walk out and play on the hallowed ground at Lord’s. If you are interested in playing Cricket at any level, please contact the gym. If you wish to support the RAF in their quest for T-20 glory at Lord’s this year, it is being held on Thursday 8th June, supporting all Forces Cricket and many charities along the way. It would be a great venue for a leaving do! Look out for posters or surf tickets.lords.org.

WW: 20 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WW: 21 Valentine’s Day Live Charity Music Bake Sale Love was in the air on Valentine’s the RAF Personnel, Civil Servants Day at Café One, as Elise Larkin and Contractors who bought RAF and Tamsin Long held a charity cakes for themselves, their bake sale where they sold cakes, colleagues and their children. HIGH WYCOMBE cards and sweets in aid of Save the Children and MAC-UK. Club Both Tamsin and Elise are Civil LIVE MUSIC Budding rock living in nearby quarters). Elise chose MAC-UK, a small Service Fast Streamers in their first stars read on... The Club is home to two active charity based in Tottenham, year of the programme, and are Station bands and boasts a CLUB for their vital work delivering fundraising as part of wider teams number of members who are mental health support to some of Fast Streamers. ...the RAF High Wycombe Live gigged in and very happy to of the UK’s most excluded and If you want to further support Music Club can help you fulfil offer guidance and advice to deprived young people. their fundraising efforts, or would your dream! A vibrant Station those who wish, one of whom like more information on the Fast facility, it is situated in the also offers guitar lessons. It is Tamsin chose to raise for Save Stream programme and how to Portakabin adjacent to PCRF on an excellent venue for you to the Children because they are apply, please contact Elise on 3 Site. For the gym bunnies, you rehearse, work up new material a fantastic charity that help elise.larkin-scragg@faststream. may know it as the old Spinning or just play away those Air millions of disadvantaged civilservice.gov.uk or Tamsin on Studio and, for those who’ve Command blues. We have our children in over 120 countries. [email protected]; been here since the year dot, own drum kit, always set up and Their work is incredibly ([email protected]); it was the DCCT prior to that. ready to go, an assortment of important and wide-reaching, Ext 6869. amplifiers and instruments and a ranging from improving early Some extremely hard work over PA system. If you have a paying years education in the the past year or so has seen gig, the fully portable PA may UK, to fighting child the Club move from a pokey be signed out by members for a marriage in Jordan. storeroom next to Carrie’s, to a £50 contribution to Club funds. dedicated, self-contained and The bake sale went sound-proofed Club with full The Club was a key supporter down a treat, and rehearsal facilities, accessible of the recent Live Music Festival raised £165 thanks for the paltry membership fee on the Sports Pitches, three of to the generosity of of £10 per year, and which may the bands playing comprising be used at any time during the current members, and we hope day (we operate a noise curfew to sponsor open mic events of 21:30 out of respect for those on the Station later this year.

R_lion_O R_lion_O/shutterstock © Miloje/shutterstock © R_lion_O/shutterstock

The Volts ACHTUNG! Spitfire Wiktoria Pawlak/shutterstock © tassel78/shutterstock Pawlak/shutterstock © Wiktoria © Goran Bogicevic/shutterstock

If you have any questions, or would like to join, just give us a call.

OIC DOiC Treasurer Cpl Ben Green Sqn Ldr Graham Langfield Cpl Tony Haworth Ext 7895 Ext 6873 Ext 3037 [email protected] AIR 38Gp-A4 OpsMovs [email protected] [email protected]

WW: 22 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 WW: 23 Football Charitable Appeal Are you looking for A successful Charitable Associations, especially those exceptional childcare? Appeal which delivers ‘Aid at Sheffield and Hallamshire FA, through Football’ has had its Hampshire FA and many others. most successful year yet. The House that Jack Built (Day Nursery) Limited has During 2016, the Appeal been awarded “Outstanding” at three of our nurseries The Taking Football to Africa made a total of 26 deliveries and is amongst one of the few childcare providers and Beyond Charitable Appeal across the world, with the to have an Early Years Teacher within its dedicated is run by Wing Commander vast majority going to Kenya team of staff. With nurseries based in Naphill, Neil Hope MBE who works for in preparation for the team Hazlemere, Flackwell Heath and Marlow Bottom. the Battlespace Management delivery visit. This took place Headquarters at Air Command in October and delivered over WE STRIVE TO OFFER: High Wycombe, Flight Sergeant 15,000 items to 53 different Louise Simpson and Mr (Flight clubs and schools. In total • A loving and homely environment where Lieutenant Retired) Tony 22,794 items were delivered young babies feel safe and secure Kinchley (Both School of Air worldwide in 2016 including • High quality childcare providing an environment Operations Control Instructors 6,293 football shirts. Items were of rich learning experiences at RAF Shawbury). The Appeal, delivered to Kenya, Nepal, Cuba, • Care, committed and enthusiastic staff which began in 2006, collects Cameroon, Zambia, South Korea, • A strong partnership with parents unwanted and donated Uganda, Belarus, Romania, • Registered to care for children aged from 0 to 5 years football kits and other items, Nigeria, Brazil and Mexico. such as school uniform, from • Open 51 weeks of the year Monday to Friday all over the United Kingdom Neil said: “I am amazed at the • Breakfast, lunch and tea all provided and and redistributes them to generous donations of kit that freshly prepared by our dedicated chefs countries across the world. we receive. When the kit is distributed you can see the Since the Appeal began, it has incredible joy of those receiving RED KITES OVER THE MOON delivered over 154,000 items the items. In late 2017, we will Naphill - RAF High Wycombe Flackwell Heath - High Wycombe including over 48,000 football complete our first full delivery Tel: 01494 564439 Tel: 01628 532169 shirts to children and adults in visit to Nepal, with a team of 53 countries worldwide. Kits are 14 people delivering through THE HOUSE THAT THE HOUSE THAT donated by clubs and people the Gurkha Welfare Scheme JACK BUILT JACK BUILT across the country including in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Marlow Bottom - Marlow Hazlemere - High Wycombe England and The FA, Manchester the foothills of the Himalayas. Tel: 01628 481601 Tel:01494 713425 United, Leicester City, Everton We will continue to deliver FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE and QPR, amongst others. to other countries worldwide www.thtjb-daynursery.co.uk Many clubs at grassroots level and boxes with 2017 deliveries also contribute to the Appeal, already sent to Kenya, South including huge assistance Africa, Nepal, Syria/Turkey from various County Football (Refugee Camps) and Uganda.”

WW: 24 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 Community The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the COVENANT IN nation ensuring that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, Impact NUMBERS 2016 are treated fairly. Bucks Over AF High Wycombe Officer James Palfrey, Media £22m personnel volunteer their Communications Officer, said: Service Pupil Premium Rexpert skills. “Today provided a real opportunity for the station to give back to the 1300 payments supporting On 14th February, ten locally local community. By being able UK organisations are based graduates from the National to volunteer our time with NCS, 73,000 pupils. Citizen Service scheme were we’ve been able to help develop now signed up to the extremely fortunate to benefit and inspire local young people in covenant. from a full day’s training delivered photography and leadership”. by volunteers from RAF High Wycombe. This day was part of the project funded by the Armed Forces All photography enthusiasts, Covenant, which has seen RAF these bright young people took High Wycombe and Community part in an interactive workshop Impact Bucks (CIB), the nationally 100% about the theory behind this art accredited Volunteer Centre for Of Local Authorities 9,000 form, covering different aspects Buckinghamshire, partner on a Service Personnel have in Great Britain have of photography from the use of variety of different volunteering- become homeowners aperture through to the use of related activities. signed the covenant. Photoshop. This was then followed through Forces Help to by a practical studio session in Hazel Finney, Lead for Volunteering portraiture and an opportunity at CIB, said: “NCS contacted me Buy. to put everything into practice last year as they had heard about outdoors. the project and were really keen to get involved. It was great to The afternoon was rounded off see everything come to fruition Over by leadership training conducted after all the planning by various by the RAF Regiment. Flying different people.” 86% 150 Of UK motor insurers Covenant Champions are supporting overseas in the Services are Please contact Hazel Finney on: postings by committing [email protected] raising awareness of the to waive cancellation or 0300 111 1250 for further information covenant within their units. fees. about the project. Over 4 Mobile phone providers £270m are supporting overseas Has been allocated postings by committing to to deliver covenant suspend contracts. commitments since its launch in 2011. Covenant Website launched to help 172 the Armed Forces Projects funded to community find the support the Armed help it needs: www. WW: 26 WYCOMBE WORLD SPRING 2017 Forces community in armedforcescovenant. 2016. gov.uk Ice

‘Control comes first, speed comes later’ Camp as the phrase I heard at RAF Halton, followed by the methodically being taught short hours. We were taken up how the athletes performed Claire Adamson put in a quick after just a few short days. In place by his GBR team mate, SAC the most during my Selection Event, which was each corner and the best line to the top part of the track to and I can really appreciate time, giving us something to aim the evening presentation, it Dex Unwin, and in third place, Wfirst Natural Luge Ice also held at RAF Halton. These to take. We learnt the track practise; even though this part the skills they have, as when for. All the novices had a smooth was announced that in the Flt Lt Eddy Dunlop GBR Coach. Camp in Lusen, Northern Italy. events provided me with an step by step, which enabled us of the track was not going to doing it myself, I was faced safe run and we all ended up Novices category, SAC Ball was When travelling down the ice insight into the sport and the to create a mental image of it. be in our timed run, it helped with many challenges. with good times. SAC Gwilliam in third place, followed by yours The instructors gave excellent track and the speed picks up techniques that are important This also helped us to anticipate us to learn to control our speed said: “My race run was the best truly in second place, and SAC advice and continually really fast, you understand what to succeed. The Ice Camp what was coming next at and would make the corners On Monday, Race Day was of the day, so I’m happy with it.’ I Ferguson achieving the fastest provided feedback, which the instructors are talking about, commenced by going over the speed and ensure we were on we would be taking seem less upon us. We had two practice put in a lot of brakes during my time. For the intermediate helped us all improve as especially when you crash! I had basic drills, such as stopping the right line. We progressed technical. At the end of each runs and then the final timed race run as it can get quite fast, championships, in third place much as we could. The week never heard of the sport until a and steering and getting used further and further up the track day there was a brief, and a run; I was trying to get into the and I found it hard to remain was Cpl Lizzie Driver, followed was physically hard work, as year ago and didn’t know what to luging on ice instead of on until we reached the starting special mention goes to Paul mindset of treating the timed focused and keep good form as by Cpl Mat Jackson in second well as mentally demanding, to expect, having only seen the the road. We got a feel for how point of our timed runs. SAC Saxby, the photographer for the run as another training run, so as speed increased”. The official and the winner of Ice Camp but the thrill of Natural Luge Olympic Luge as a comparison. responsive the sled is on ice, Ball said: “For a hill that takes week, who took great photos. not to get too nervous and go times were not announced was Cpl Jack Little. The RAF would make me do it again compared to on the road. you ten minutes to walk up, it’s In the brief, the images were too crazy. The doubles were our until the evening, which gave Champion was SAC Sam Budd, without a second thought. I had a taster of the sport less than a minute down.” SAC used to critique our technique forerunners to check that the us time to speculate who had knocking Flt Lt Eddy Dunlop off on Servicemen and women All the novices started off Ball’s fitness tracker showed her and analyse our performance, timing was working correctly. won and demonstrate how of the top spot for the first time SAC Amy Brookes Awaiting Trade Training (SATTs) at the bottom of the track, hitting 18,000 steps in just a few as well as entertain us. Flt Lt Eddy Dunlop and Sqn Ldr competitive we had become in 22 years, followed in second 4624 Sqn As with any sport that involves speed, there were times when confidence was dented by the prospect of failing to successfully manoeuvre a corner. SAC Saunders had a close call with a board on the far side of a corner (which unluckily was caught on video). All the novices had encounters with the boards at some point; these mishaps reinforced our understanding of the need for control and how it could easily go wrong if we lost concentration. I also did not let crashes dishearten me and I would always do my best on the next attempt. On Sunday, we all had a rest from lugeing and travelled to see the International Luge Federation World Cup to see how the top athletes of Natural Luge compete. We saw three members of the GBR Team complete the track, as well as other athletes from over the world. It was good to see

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