MainThe Official Magazine of RAF HaltonpointSpring 2019

1 Mainpoint SpringSTATION 2017 SNIPPETS | COMMUNITY AND CHARITY | SPORTS MALT THE BREWERY MARKS RAF100 with 10% OFF

If you haven’t yet visited Malt The Brewery in Prestwood Great Missenden, there’s never been a better reason to go. As well as award winning real ales, newly launched craft beers, and a friendly welcome, Malt The Brewery are now offering all RAF Personnel 3, 4 and 5 bedroom 10% off any purchase of beer in their brewery shop and tasting bar. homes available GET ON THE The 10% offer is being launched to mark the centenary celebrations. Simply show your MoD PROPERTY Form 90 when making your purchase to receive Stylish design and high SHOP LADDER WITH your 10% discount. specification Malt The Brewery is a great place to spend a few ONLY A 5% hours. There’s an onsite shop and tasting bar. Visitors can join one of their monthly tours or Perfect location simply drop in and enjoy a pint whilst overlooking DEPOSIT TOUR the brewing hall. They are open Tuesday to Saturday. Oh and it’s not just beer, they serve locally made gin and cider too. Commutable to London For more details visit www.maltthebrewery.co.uk in 25 mins TASTE or see what people are saying on TripAdvisor.

Superb schooling nearby ENJOY LOCALLY MADE ALES IN PRESTWOOD, HP16 0HW Fantastic value for money maltthebrewery.co.uk Prices from £319,950

MTB-Ad-ShopTourTasteMartin 92x132.indd 1 Grant Homes 23/11/2018launches 14:32 new phase at major HELP TO BUY AND STAMP DUTY PAID* development area in Aylesbury, SALES CENTRE OPEN DAILY, 10AM TO 5PM Martin Grant Homes have now launched they have continued to grow and are now room offers outside access and is situated a brand new phase at its Kingsfield Park recognised as a major regional housebuilder. off the main hall, along with a cloakroom and development in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. Each property is carefully planned and built storage cupboard. The first floor offers the The next 24 units will be released for sale to the highest standards, maximising space master bedroom, with large en suite shower over the coming months and comprise of and light. Designed to suit the way we live room, with his and hers basins, and built in seven different house types coming to the today, the homes incorporate a wealth of wardrobe, as well as the second and third market. Help to Buy will be available on modern conveniences to appeal to everyone bedrooms, and family bathroom. The second selected plots as well as incentives such as from first-time buyers to established families. floor hosts the fourth and fifth bedrooms, Stamp Duty paid, carpets and turf. both of which are flooded with natural light The Peregrine housetype, the largest of the through the clever use of Velux windows, Kingsfield Park is part of the wider three bedroom house types, is a detached sharing the second family shower room. Berryfields community, a major development 1193 square foot property. A large hall area which will see the construction of 3,000 opens onto a double aspect living / dining Nearby Aylesbury train station runs services new homes and new community facilities room and kitchen / breakfast room, as well direct into London Marylebone in just including shops, a district centre and local as cloakroom. To the first floor, the double one hour and two minutes, making for an schools. As a town recently given garden aspect master bedroom offers a fitted easy commute into the capital. A free bus town status, the wider town of Aylesbury wardrobe and an en suite shower room, offers residents of Kingsfield Park transport is also to be the recipient of significant whilst the large landing opens to the second to the train station. Road links from the government funding for infrastructure and and third bedrooms, and family bathroom. To development are also excellent, with the For further information please housing development. Construction of The the exterior, a car port provides an additional M40, M1, and M25 all close by, allowing for contact our sales centre on: Exchange, a new restaurant quarter, to be luxury. swift access to the major regional towns and built around a newly developed public square to London airports. 01296 321053 in the town centre, is already underway. The Gallinule house type is a large, five bedroom detached family home arranged Prices start from £319,950 with Help to Buy Founded in 1978, Martin Grant Homes have over three floors and 1744 square feet. The available on selected plots. WWW.KINGSFIELDPARK.CO.UK earned a reputation for building high quality ground floor offers two large double aspect For further information, please contact the The computer generated illustrations are for general guidance only. Price correct at time of going to press. homes and apartments in desirable locations. rooms – the living room and the kitchen / sales centre on 01276 321053, or visit *Help to Buy is available in on new homes up to £600,000. Available to selected plots. Terms and conditions apply. As a privately-owned family company, dining room, both with bay windows. A utility www.kingsfieldpark.co.uk From The Editor Editorial Team Station Commander’s Foreword

Editor Sqn Ldr Matthew Hopton Group Captain K P Wilson OBE MA RAF Tel: 01296 656123 EDITOR'S FOREWORD One Team, Training People for Defence Deputy Editors Welcome to our Spring submission, please do get Eleanor Tomlin edition of Mainpoint. in touch. Chris Connolly I FIND IT HARD TO that started off the day, but I for one thoroughly enjoyed ince our last issue, As always, I am indebted Picture Editor BELIEVE THAT I myself, as did the AOC! Halton has been to the Mainpoint team for Kate Rutherford HAVE BEEN IN POST bathed in winter their hard work in creating The unexpected stop off at S FOR 6 MONTHS sunshine, drenched by this issue; their enthusiasm Distribution the Trinity Community Centre downpours and covered and commitment is greatly Courtesy of the Central Registry ALREADY. and Nursery was of particular and Fire Section in snow, but that has appreciated, and without interest to the AOC, who I still feel like I’m at the start not stopped an array of them there would be stated that he had not seen Photography Support of my tour and still learning activities being undertaken no magazine. a Soft Play facility of that Kate Rutherford, Chris Yarrow so much about what we do across a wide variety standard anywhere else in & Luka Waycott and getting to know the RAF of areas. Finally, as the clocks go Tel: 01296 656117 Halton estate. And yet, by the RAF. I encourage you forward and the weather all to take full advantage of the same token, I feel like As the Station Commander (hopefully) improves, the Contact Us: the community facilities we I have been here for ages. writes, this magazine is Station looks forward to [email protected] have here. The most enjoyable part of your opportunity to spread celebrating 100 years of being a Station Commander the word about what you RAF Halton. Therefore, if Thank you all for your efforts is getting out to meet all have been up to, and this you organise or take part on the day and leading up of you, and I thank you for edition features a mix of in any events recognising to it, and for those areas that Publishing Team making me feel so welcome. Station, community and this milestone, please let we did not get to see, the I am sure by now you have sporting events. However, the Mainpoint team know AOC was briefed on your Published realised that I ask a lot of we are always looking for so we can capture these achievements as well. Lance Print Limited, 1st Floor, questions (sorry, that’s just ideas for articles, therefore notable commemorations Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, my nature!), but what has if you have a suggestion or in future editions. Northants, NN16 8NL impressed me is how much Communication is important Ed place on the last Thursday Tel: 01536 334222 knowledge and experience and I was reassured with the of every month at 0900 in Email: [email protected] there is here at Halton. positive feedback I received Kermode Hall. Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk following the inaugural The Annual Formal Visit was Station Commander’s I hope you enjoy this edition Advertising a great opportunity for us Monthly Brief. This is an of Mainpoint. If you have Leah to showcase RAF Halton to excellent opportunity to taken part in any Exercise, Tel: 01536 334225 our Air Officer Commanding provide information to all Force Development, sporting Email: [email protected] (AOC), and I know that he personnel at RAF Halton was, impressed with what and if you have something event or anything else of interest, please do write Design we are doing and the people that you would like to see an article for our Station Lance Print Ltd that he met. I am not sure included, please contact magazine; this will only Amanda Robinson that some of the Station Warrant Officer Ian Giles be as good as the articles Tel: 01536 334226 Executives will forgive me with your suggestions. you submit. Email: [email protected] for the step aerobics class As a reminder, these take

Printed Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon Contents Spring 2019 Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough, PE2 6TD Tel: 01733 390564 STATION SNIPPETS 16 Hendon Museum SPORTS Visit Email: [email protected] 06 Grace Is VIP For The Day 18 Annual Formal 27 Back On The Ice: P. KERNAN Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk 07 WOs' & Sgts' Mess 2019 Visit Success Sliding At Speed 07 Happy Birthday TCC 20 Honours And Awards 28 Sir Sefton Brancker 08 Graduation Round Up 22 Educate - Motivate Cross Country TREE SURGERY 10 Duxford Day Out - Activate 29 Spinning With Rachel All aspects of tree Disclaimer: For SATTs 29 RAF Badminton This publication is copyright Lance Print Limited and COMMUNITY & CHARITY Championships work undertaken may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in 11 Tornados Over Halton whole or in part without prior written permission of 11 Euro Atlantic 23 Hughenden School 30 Station & Sports Clubs Hedges maintained Lance Print Limited. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Print Security Course Visit RAF Halton Fully qualified, fully insured Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy 13 Joint Information 24 'Trees A Crowd' of the information herein or for any consequence Local authority approved: arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication Activities Group At The 25 Santa Comes Free estimates, Firewood for sale are not necessarily those of the or the Centre Of UK Support To RAF Halton Ministry of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright INTRODUCTORY Tel: 01296 330501 unless otherwise stated. 14 Cool Aeronautics 26 Donation To RAF Direct 07763 073663 At RAF Halton Halton Proves Fruitful 94 Tring Road, , HP22 6NX 31 Meet The Execs www.pkernantreesurgeons.com

4 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 5 Station Snippets Station Snippets WOs' & Sgts' Mess HAPPY BIRTHDAY Functions for 2019 TCC ebruary marked 50 personnel and families at Joint Families Happy Hour Christmas Draw/Ball years of serving the Halton for approximately 35 22 Mar 19 7 Dec 19 community through years before it became the Free event Dress: TBC F the people and the work home for the Community Dress: Green of the TCC – the Trinity Support Team, the HIVE and Exchange Drinks Community Centre. the Station’s youth work. Partners' Night 11 Dec 19 10 May 19 Dress: TBC On 6th February 1969, the Whilst sorting out a few of race Gaskell, a young Dress: Red building Halton currently the remaining items from the ATC Cadet from 606 New Year’s Eve Party knows as the TCC was Church, the Chaplaincy team Beaconsfield Squadron, Summer Ball 31 Dec 19 opened as the Trinity Church, discovered a plaque which G 29 Jun 19 Dress: TBC spent the day at RAF Halton Church of Scotland Free had been placed in memory as a VIP treat. Dress: Red FREE EVENT Church (CSFC). The creation of Padre Schofield’s wife, Open to all Station Personnel of a building dedicated to Dorothy, who died shortly Grace has a rare form of brain Jazz on the Lawn worship in the Free Church after the Church was opened. cancer and was invited to visit 1 Aug 19 Other events will be advertised tradition was the vision of The plaque has been given RAF Halton, along with her GRACE IS VIP FOR THE DAY FREE EVENT on the Mess Noticeboard, Rev Philip Schofield, RAF to the Schofield family parents, by Station Warrant Dress: TBC Sharepoint and RAF Halton Halton’s CSFC Chaplain at the to remind them of their Officer Ian Giles. Hosted by HHOM website. time. He oversaw the design, connection to the on-going construction and fitting out valuable work of serving Coincidentally, the Station Battle of Britain Dinner Unless otherwise advertised, of the building. the community of Service Commander’s Cup event was 6 Sept 19 Wednesday night is Members' families at Halton. held on the same day and Dress: Red Night, including the Envelope The Church had a thriving personnel from across the Draw. ministry among the Service Padre Mike Hall Station were running a circuit Oktoberfest around the Nuffield Pavilion 12 Oct 19 Unless otherwise advertised, in fancy dress, and Grace Dress: TBC Friday evening is ‘Happy Hour’ went along to help with the with the bar open from 1700. warm up. Comedy Night 16 Oct 19 Whilst every effort is maintained Grace also visited other areas Dress: TBC to ensure the accuracy of the across the Station, having a FREE EVENT above information, details may closer look at life in the Royal Hosted by HHOM change at short notice due to Air Force. She met with the unforeseen circumstances. Station Commander, Group Remembrance Dinner Captain Katherine Wilson, to 8 Nov 19 FS Hammond gain an insight into her role Dress: Red Head of Ents 6021 leading RAF Halton.

Next, Grace was treated to a flight from the Airfield in a Halton Aero Club Tecnam Sierra. Mark Devlin, the Some members of the current Community Support Team Airfield Manager, piloted them around the local area to the north and over Silverstone race track.

Grace has a Just Giving page to raise funds for Cancer Research. Carol Vorderman, Honorary Group Captain of the RAF Air Cadets, said:

“Please send your good wishes and support to our brave Cadet, Grace Gaskell.

Grace is so young to be going Padre Mike Hall (the current CSFC Chaplain) with the through this, and she is loved memorial plaque to Dorothy Schofield by the Air Cadets family.”

6 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 7 Station Snippets

Graduation Round Up

8 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 9 Station Snippets TORNADOS Station Snippets OVER HALTON EURO ATLANTIC DUXFORD DAY OUT FOR SATTS farewell three-ship flypast of RAF Tornado Amaan Raheem A GR4s passed over RAF SECURITY COURSE Halton on 20th February as ast year the RAF reflected reminder of the need for air polished floor, creating an part of its farewell tour of Flying Officer Conor Maguire on its first 100 years, power and provides an insight excellent backdrop to peer the UK. L and now in 2019, into the role the RAF plays in inside the weathered cockpits. the Servicemen Awaiting the world. Station personnel and people Trade Training, known as Other areas of the Museum from the neighbouring SATTs, continue to explore As part of their own personal display aircraft currently in area looked to the skies the history of the RAF and development, the SATTs had service with the RAF. The as the impressive aircraft aviation at the Imperial War to research aircraft exhibited Typhoon and F-35B Lighting roared past. Museum Duxford. at the Museum and deliver II exhibitions had a wealth of a short presentation about information about the aircraft, The iconic Tornado has been The Museum charts the them, including the aircraft’s their conception, as well as in service for almost 40 history of aviation and origin, design, use in conflict the long journey taken to years and is now going into speculates on how air (if any) and its legacy. The get the aircraft operational. retirement, although the jets power will change in the opportunity to deliver a This gave the SATTs food for will continue to facilitate future. Therefore, it is very brief on the Vulcan Bomber thought as they look towards engineering training at appropriate that some of the was relished; the novelty of a future enabling these RAF Cosford. RAF’s newest members visit presenting by the aircraft’s aircraft to take to the skies. the Museum, as they will bomb bay was inimitable and undoubtedly fashion part of enthusiastically welcomed. the RAF’s next 100 years. One hangar within the The Museum displays fine Museum is home to privately examples of aeronautical owned historic military aircraft innovation, from the mighty which continue to fly. The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird aircraft are also maintained ecember 2018 marked from Macedonia, the Czech to the renowned Concorde. in the hangar and several the end of one week of Republic and Serbia. Flying However, for the beginning of SATTs had the opportunity to D training and education Officer Maguire delivered a for two Junior Officers on the presentation on American the SATTs’ careers in aviation, participate in a more detailed Aylesbury Vale Tutors Shoe Repairs, Euro Atlantic Security Course, geopolitics, with both UK the starker exhibits such as tour of a disassembled World Making Learning Enjoyable Key Cutting, the section of the Berlin Wall War II fighter aircraft. The at Camp Butmir in Bosnia Flying Officers scoring highly or the mangled steel retrieved thick, musky aroma of Avgas Jim Lucas Sports Trophies and Herzegovina. Flying in the end of course exams from the World Trade Centre and engine oil were in stark & Engraving Officer Maguire and Flying and syndicate activities. terrorist attack, serve as a contrast to the immaculately BSC (hons) Science, PGCE+ QTS Officer McMullan, Holding Tutoring GCSE Science + Maths Officers from RAF Halton The course provided an Tel: 01296 612009 Also dry cleaning and RAF Odiham, attended opportunity to meet members Mob: 07508 036366 & watch batteries the course along with 26 of the UK contingent based Email: [email protected] international participants. at Camp Butmir, including Junior Army Officers and RAF The course was delivered Wing Commanders. The UK 27 High Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE by prominent national and has played a key role in the Tel: 01844 274651 international professors and Western Balkans since the Email: [email protected] senior military officers. early 1990s and personnel are currently deployed on This allowed participants to Operation ALTHEA, as part expand their understanding of the European Union Force ROZELLE of global and European (EUFOR) mission. SEATONS security issues, as well as SCHOOL of DANCE deepening their knowledge Flying Officer Maguire has ~ Ballet ~ Tap ~ CATERING of key international subsequently shared the ~ Theatre Craft ~ Catering for organisations engaged in knowledge he gained from resolving contemporary the course with fellow RAF Classes for children all occasions security challenges. Halton personnel and hopes from 3 years Sandwich delivery to continue his exposure It also provided a to International Defence Tap Classes for adults available rewarding opportunity Engagement, geopolitical Wendover Memorial Hall seatonscatering.co.uk for outreach with Bosnia education and current Wharf Road [email protected] and Herzegovina Armed operations, as he continues For information Forces personnel, along into his pre-Elementary Flying Tel: 01296 622001 01296 630279 with other representatives Training hold. [email protected] or 07812 818375

10 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 11 Station Snippets Open Morning Pack Horse Tuesday 30 April 2019 An old fashioned cosy village pub and has been Gower 0930 - 1130 hours family run for the last 55 years. It has Sky Sports, darts Book online at pipers.sc/visitpipers and a great welcoming atmosphere. Come and try a sample as we’ve been in the Good Beer Guide since 2002. JOINT INFORMATION ACTIVITIES GROUP

‘Good Beer Guide’ AT THE CENTRE OF UK SUPPORT Pub since 2002 TO UKRAINE

The White Swan ensions between the This time, as the Christmas Fresh from saving 6,000 previously; the message of Another Gower cosy village pub in Russian Federation break neared and RAF Halton migrants in the Mediterranean support to an embattled Wendover’s high street also with Sky T and Ukraine reached a readied itself for an extra five over the autumn months, Ukraine was inherently clear. Sports and darts. It’s run by Paul and crescendo in late November days’ deserved leave, one HMS Echo came alongside 2018, when three Ukrainian of JIAG’s officers in late December in Odessa, The arrival of the Secretary his staff who will always give you a Navy vessels were seized and steadied themself for a two days before the VIP visit. of State for Defence, Rt Hon warm welcome. K COLLINS ROOFING LTD 24 Ukrainian sailors captured turbulent week at the centre Boasting a proud white ensign Gavin Williamson MP, only and imprisoned in Moscow. of International Defence astern, the vessel was NATO’s served to reinforce that The UK responded with a clear Engagement as an event and first in the Black Sea since the message. Standing on the Pack Horse FELTLearn ROOFING | Play SPECIALIST | Grow message: Ukraine does not media coordinator. disturbing events three weeks flight deck of a Ukrainian 29 Tring Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6NR ROOFMASTER APPROVED CONTRACTOR stand alone. frigate, the Defence Secretary Tel: 01296 622075 Means-tested bursaries available for Reception (pictured left) re-iterated Est. 1969 and Sixth Form entry 2019. With a Royal Navy warship the UK’s position, “shoulder alongside and a surprise VIP to shoulder” with its Eastern Independent day school for girls aged 4 - 18 The White Swan visit in the offing, the Defence European partner. Pipers Lane, Great Kingshill, High Wycombe, Bucks HP15 6LP 18 High Street, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6EA Section in Ukraine’s capital, www.piperscorner.co.uk • 01494 718255 • @PipersCornerSch Tel: 01296 622271 Kyiv, naturally turned to RAF JIAG’s work behind the scenes Kenny Collins Halton’s Joint Information during this visit, and many K COLLINS ROOFING LTD Activities Group (JIAG) for others, ensures the UK's 22 North End Road, Quainton, support. As the MoD’s lead strategic messages reach Nr KAylesbury. FELTCOLLINS ROOFING Bucks. ROOFING HP22 SPECIALIST 4BD LTD for all media and information audiences globally. ROOFMASTER APPROVED CONTRACTOR K COLLINS ROOFING LTD operations training, FELTKEst. COLLINS1969ROOFING SPECIALIST ROOFING LTDK COLLINSK COLLINSROOFING ROOFING LTD LTD Stephen Hearn Tel ROOFMASTER01296 APPROVED 655526 CONTRACTOR K COLLINSFELT ROOFING ROOFING SPECIALIST LTD JIAG boasts a number of As JIAG continues to train Est. 1969FELT ROOFING SPECIALIST KFELT COLLINS ROOFINGFELTROOFMASTER ROOFING SPECIALIST ROOFING APPROVED SPECIALISTLTDCONTRACTOR deployable experts, including and advise at RAF Halton and MobileROOFMASTER 07831 465501APPROVED CONTRACTOR ROOFMASTERFELT APPROVEDROOFINGROOFMASTEREst. 1969 CONTRACTOR SPECIALIST APPROVED CONTRACTOR combat camera teams and abroad throughout 2019, Email Est.Kenny [email protected] Collins FELTEst. 1969ROOFMASTER ROOFINGEst. APPROVED 1969 SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR media coordinators ready to stay tuned for more updates ROOFMASTEREst. 1969 APPROVED CONTRACTOR Kenny Collins Est. 1969 meet a variety of demands at from Canada, USA and the Web 22 Northwww.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk End Road, Quainton, Kenny Collins 22 NorthNr Aylesbury. End Road, Bucks. Quainton, HP22 4BD a moment’s notice. Middle East. Antique and Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers. Est. 1982 Kenny Collins Kenny Collins Kenny Collins Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD Kenny Collins22 North End Road, Quainton, Tel 01296 655526 Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD Tel 01296 655526 Kenny22 North Collins End Road, Quainton,22 North End Road, Quainton, 22Mobile North 07831End Road, 465501 Quainton, Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD Our salesrooms continue to attract a wide range of customers from Mobile 07831 465501 22 North End Road,NrTel Aylesbury. Quainton,01296 Bucks. 655526 HP22 4BD NrEmail Aylesbury. [email protected] Bucks. HP22 4BD 22 NorthNr End Aylesbury. 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WebTel www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk01296 655526 MobileTel 07831 01296465501MobileEmail 655526 [email protected] 465501 Mobile 07831 465501 TelEmail [email protected] 65552607831EmailWeb 465501 [email protected] Mineral Chippings Asphalt repairs Polycarbonate Corrugated PVC Visit our website and view the sales catalogues with accompanying • Email [email protected]• • MobileWeb Email07831www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk• [email protected] www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk Removal of Asbestos Repointed Chimney Stacks Web • www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk• Email [email protected] www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk illustrations, you will find us atwww.tringmarketauctions.co.uk Roof Boarding Skylights Guttering and fascias Slate and tile repairs • • • Web• www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk • Valuations for Sale, Probate & Insurance • Total and Part House Clearance Specialists • Fine Art and 20th Century Decorative Arts Sales • Fortnightly Sales of Antique & Modern Furniture and collectables KS G LF COACHING We provide a full service to meet all your requirements All aspects of golf tuition available on the range and on course. 25% off first lesson. 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Mainpoint Spring 2019 13 Station Snippets WouldWould youyou like toto playplay COOL AERONAUTICS AT RAF HALTON cricketcricket atat thethe weekend?weekend? Bill McGrath s part of the RAF100 Air Force Centenary Flight of pilot. They also experienced celebrations during the Navigator’ project. The a map reading activity KimbleKimble CricketCricket ClubClub is a friendly,friendly, A 2018, RAF Halton set project is planned for later using grid references and locallocal club club withwith aa historyhistory ofof RAF personnel an ambitious target of having this year when Group Captain communicating using hand- 1000 Year 5 and 6 primary Manwaring will attempt to held radios, with an overview playingplaying veryvery successfullysuccessfully for us. school children attend a series break the world record for of Morse Code under the of ‘Cool Aeronautics’ Science, the fastest circumnavigation guidance of the London and We are always Welooking are for always new players looking to play for innew one players of our Technology, Engineering and of the earth in a light aircraft, South East Region Air Cadets We are always looking for new players to play in one of our Mathematics (STEM) events. a Vans RV-7, which he is Communications Officer, two league teams on Saturdays or friendlies on Sunday. two league teams on Saturdaysto play or in friendlies one of onour Sunday. The final event was held at currently building. Squadron Leader Malcolm two league teams on Saturdays RAF Halton in December, Wood, and his colleagues. Our outdoor nets are on Wednesday evenings from 6pm when 65 children attended Following the brief, the Our outdoor nets are on orWednesday friendliesWould eveningsonyou Sunday. like from to 6pmplay from St Edward’s Catholic children were split into six The British Model Flying Our outdoor nets are on Wednesday Junior School in Aylesbury. groups and took part in six Association, led by Mr Jim including a briefing on cricket at the weekend?

different activities in the all- Wright, had the children build aerodynamics and a Link If you are interested, please visitevenings our website: kimblecricketclub.co.uk,from 6pm If you are interested, please visit our website: kimblecricketclub.co.uk, The Trenchard Museum day event at various locations their own Aerojet model and Trainer simulator, made in email [email protected] or Kimblephone Bob Cricket Whitehead Club on is07786 a friendly, 854531. is working with the Royal across the Station. then fly them, supported Aylesbury by Air Trainers email [email protected] orlocal phone club Bob with Whitehead a history ofon RAF07786Would personnel 854531. you like to play Aeronautical Society to by Squadron Leader Limited in the 1950s. playing very successfully for us. promote aerospace and In one activity the children Dempster Hamilton from HQ cricket at the weekend? aviation to a new generation were introduced to the Air Command. Trenchard Museum volunteer We are always looking for new players to play in one of our principles of flight by Halton two league teams on Saturdays or friendlies on Sunday. under the STEM umbrella. Mr Brian Rogers, supported ‘Cool Aeronautics’ events Aero and Microlight Club and The volunteers of the by Flying Officer Jamie Shaw Our outdoor nets are on Wednesday evenings Kimblefrom 6pm Cricket Club is a friendly, are free to attend and offer were given the opportunity Trenchard Museum also (a future RAF pilot), were kept a fantastic opportunity to sit in a light aircraft as the led several other activities particularly busy ensuring local club with a history of RAF personnel for young people, the that all 65 children had If you are interested, please visit our website: kimblecricketclub.co.uk,playing very successfully for us. new generation, to meet the opportunity to ‘fly’ the email [email protected] or phone Bob Whitehead on 07786 854531. inspirational people from Chipmunk flight simulator. across the industry and We are always looking for new players to play in one of our engage with aerospoace The children also designed two league teams on Saturdays or friendlies on Sunday. themed activities relevant to and built rocket models the current Key Stage 2 Skills and then were given the of the National Curriculum. opportunity to test them Our outdoor nets are on Wednesday evenings from 6pm on the ‘firing range’, with The children were initially enthusiastic support from briefed by Group Captain several RAF Halton STEM Mark Manwaring, a fast jet Ambassadors, in particular If you are interested, please visit our website: kimblecricketclub.co.uk, navigator and Chairman of Len Brettell email [email protected] or phone Bob Whitehead on 07786 854531. Halton Aero Club, on his ‘Royal and Darren Culley.

In another activity, known as the STIXX, the children rolled six sheets of old newspaper before compressing the paper using the STIXX machine to produce a solid rod. With the rods the children were able to make a range of items of their own choice. A significant contribution was made to this activity by Senior Aircraftman Kieran Skews, supported by Trenchard Museum volunteers Mr John Gill and Mrs Sandy Lowe. Invaluable help was also provided throughout the day by 12 SATTs.

A very hectic day for all concerned but the smile on the children’s faces throughout the day made it all worthwhile!

14 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Station Snippets

HENDON MUSEUM VISIT Eleanor Tomlin n February, a group of Whole The Museum exhibits several Force personnel from the 4D interactive theatres and I Station enjoyed a Force rides, combining computer Development day out to the animation with special RAF Museum in north London. environmental effects. Simulations include the Red The Museum explores Arrows experience, where the fascinating story of users can fly in formation with the first 100 years of the Red 1, as well as a World War II RAF, celebrating and bombing mission into enemy commemorating its history territory alongside the crew in detail. Visitors are also of ‘Kalamazoo Girls’, who were encouraged to imagine what members of the USA’s Women the RAF’s future contribution Airforce Service Pilots. and involvement in technology will be in the years to come. A huge thank you must go to Flight Sergeant Sharon Several different stories from Hornby for arranging such the very beginning of the informative and enjoyable RAF’s long history are explored days out like this. Those in in Hangar 1. From the land, attendance were asked to air and sea, all of the exhibits complete a fun quiz to show reveal how everyone’s role learning from the trip. With a has contributed, allowing the prize up for grabs, everyone formation of the world’s first put great enthusiasm into independent Air Force. answering the questions to compete for the reward, Hangar 2 delves into a detailed helping us to learn more history of the First World War about the RAF and Air Power. in the air, with many personal artefacts on display, including medals, letters and uniforms - all relics from the ‘eyes in the sky’ era.

A spectacular display of bombers, fighters (including Spitfires and Hurricanes), seaplanes, helicopters and many more are featured in Hangars 3, 4 and 5. These displays are all based on aircraft and stories originating from the Battle of Britain.

Finally, Hangar 6 shows the RAF in an ‘age of uncertainty’. It acknowledges the political, economic and technological changes that have occurred over the last forty years. This Hangar also focuses on conflicts, including the Falklands War, and a look at other activities, such as providing humanitarian aid, and at the RAF’s partnerships with our allies across the globe.

Those willing to be more adventurous were able to experience the thrill of powered flight.

16 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 17 Station Snippets ANNUAL FORMAL VISIT SUCCESS Next up, the AOC officially opened the new Welfare Facility for the Servicemen Awaiting Trade Training, commonly known as SATTs. Once the Basic Recruit Training Course is completed, a number of Airmen and women will remain at Halton until they are able to start their Phase 2 training.

SATTs are highly valued on Station and alongside reinforcing and developing their skills through training, they support a number of different events on base. Therefore, the creation of a Air Vice-Marshal Warren space specifically to unwind James, Air Officer with colleagues is very A Commanding (AOC) important, and the ‘SATT Cave’ Number 22 Group, carried out (as it is affectionately known) his Annual Formal Visit at RAF will do this perfectly. Halton on 5th February. The AOC made brief stops at the underpass mural, adding After arriving at RAF Halton, his handprints for posterity, Air Vice-Marshal James and the Nursery to see the headed straight to the Burnett progress made following the Gym to join the Station recent refurbishment. Executives for a step aerobics session with Claire Pearce. At Airmen’s Command Whilst some Execs took more Squadron, the AOC witnessed naturally to the work out than newly promoted Flight Artemis is an interactive the AOC on their roles at others (and Mainpoint can’t Sergeants on the Advanced teaching system which helps RAF Halton, which vary from reveal any further details Management and Leadership personnel develop their supporting airfield activities on this subject), everyone Course (AMLC) honing their command, management with Operations Squadron enjoyed the dynamic start to skills using the Artemis and leadership abilities to working with the Joint the visit. Spaceship Bridge Simulator. by assuming the roles of Information Activities Group. Captain, Helm, Science, Communication, Engineering, Following this, Flight Sergeant and Weapon Control. Len Brettell gave an update on the Station’s activities Air Vice-Marshal James joined championing Science, the AMLC students during Technology, Engineering and an exercise and spoke to Maths (STEM). them about their experience using the Artemis system to The day culminated with Air advance their skills and how Vice-Marshal James meeting they could transfer them back with instructors from the to their own roles. Recruit Training Squadron, before departing after a busy After lunch, the AOC and fruitful day. The Annual presented medals and Formal Visit would not have certificates to Station been possible without the personnel at the Honours and hard work of many people, Awards Ceremony (see page therefore a big thank you on 20 for further details). behalf of the Project Officer, Squadron Leader Matthew Holding Officers who are Hopton, to everyone who awaiting the start of their played a part in making the flying training presented to visit such a success.

18 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 19 Station Snippets

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Tel: 01296 393932 Fax: 01296 399338 Wednesday 7.30pm Wendover Memorial Hall Dance Mixx [email protected] Flight Lieutenant Heather Wednesday 7.30pm William Harding School Lo 17 Albert Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 1LY Constantine was also Thursday 7.30pm Weston Turville School Strength45 www.forceoneaircon.co.uk presented with an AOC’s Saturday 9.30am Stoke Mandeville CC Sch Dance Mixx Commendation for her Sunday 10.00am Jubilee Hall, Bierton Dance Mixx exceptional work serving as the Staff Officer in the Air www.jazzercise.net/uk-aylesbury Mobility Force Headquarters. Contact Keri on 07900 987230 or To Advertise in the next issue email [email protected] of Mainpoint please contact A Chief of Defence Intelligence Commendation was awarded to Flight Lieutenant Claire Hobbs Ken on: for her initiative, boundless energy and enthusiasm in her 01536 334 225 role as OC Service Discipline at both RAF Stations Wyton and Digby. Email: ir Vice-Marshal Warren The Meritorious Service He was recognised for his James, Air Officer Medal was awarded to Flight sterling personal contribution Sporting Colours were [email protected] Commanding (AOC) Sergeant Sharon Hornby, to the rapid improvement of presented to Flight Lieutenant A Number 22 Group presented who was described as an catering delivery services at Laurence Humphreys for his Honours and Awards in a “utterly selfless individual RAF Halton." participation in the 2018 ceremony at Halton House with a genuine desire to make Interservice Championships Officers’ Mess on the improvements for her team, It was also awarded to Flight for Athletics, and Senior afternoon of his Annual the Station and wider Service.” Sergeant Alex Bedborough, Aircraftman Jiute Tupu for his Formal Visit. for dedicating 11 years to the 2017 Rugby League Inter- Warrant Officer Andrew RAF Halton Co-Responder Services Championships. In front of family, friends and Cashmore was awarded The scheme, and Sergeant Gareth Sports colours are awarded to colleagues, he presented Royal Warrant. A Warrant French, for his role as Air congratulate and recognise a variety of Honours and Officer is a senior manager Cadet Liaison Officer. the achievement and Awards, many of which were who is required to possess commitment in a person’s announced in the most recent outstanding ability and Other recipients of a sporting endeavours after Indian Cuisine Indian Cuisine Indian Cuisine New Year Honours List. personal qualities. Commendation from AOC they have represented 22 Group included Mrs Rosie their Service at an Inter- Banquet every Sunday & Wednesday The Long Service And Good A Deputy Commander’s Fitch, for her innovation Services Competition. Indian Cuisine Conduct Medal, awarded to Commendation, awarded in and drive to provide Banquet Banquet every every SundaySunday & &Only Wednesday Wednesday £14.95 per person the New Year Honours List, comprehensive HR support, personnel who complete 15 Once the presentations Indian Banquet Cuisine every SundayChoose: & Wednesday 1 Poppadom, 1 Starter, 1 Main Dish, years reckonable service with was presented to Sergeant Mrs Emilia Mallam, for her were complete, Air Vice- Only Only£14.95 £14.95 per1 Side person person Dish, 1 Rice or Naan followed by Coffee an unblemished disciplinary Danson Trimmingham, who outstanding performance, Marshal James addressed the Only £14.95 per person(Dining in only) Banquet every SundayChoose: & Wednesday1 Poppadom, 1 Starter, 1 Main Dish, record, was presented to “selflessly contributed to innovation and commitment recipients and their families OnlyChoose: £14.95 1per1 Side Poppadom, person Dish, 1 Rice or Naan 1 Starter, followed by 1 Coffee Main Dish, Sergeant Owen Clarke, the RAF100 Parade and as the RTS Training and and congratulated them Choose: 1 Poppadom,(Dining in1 only) ForStarter, reservations 1 Main and takeawaysDish, call Sergeant Kenny Howard, rehearsals. He went the extra Development Flight all. He thanked the families Choose: 11 Poppadom, Side Dish, 1 Starter, 1 Rice 1 Main or Dish, Naan followed by Coffee For reservations and takeaways01296 call 620500 / 620050 Corporal Neil Horton and mile to deliver additional Administrative Assistant, of Service personnel for 1 Side1 Dish,Side 1 Rice Dish, or Naan 1 followed Rice(Dining byor Coffee Naan in only) followed [email protected] by Coffee Corporal David Fryer. training with Halton’s Drill and Mrs Amanda Turner, for the support they give their (Dining in only)01296 620500 / 620050www.thespicegarden.net Instructors to ensure clarity her outstanding support to loved ones and their role in [email protected](Dining in only) The Long Service And Good of understanding.” RAF100. supporting other dependants For reservations and takeawayswww.thespicegarden.net call Open 7 Days a week (including Bank Holidays) Mon-Thurs: 5.30pm - 11.00pm Conduct Medal Clasp is in the close community. With 01296For 620500 reservationsOpen / 620050 7 Days a week and(including takeawaysBank Holidays)Fri-Sat 5.30pm call - 11.30pm awarded to personnel who A Deputy Commander’s The RAF Halton’s Trenches such a wide range of awards, [email protected]: 5.30pm - 11.00pmSunday 2.00pm - 10.00pm have been awarded the Long Commendation was presented Committee were recognised the AOC spoke of his joy at Forwww.thespicegarden.net reservationsFri-Sat 5.30pmand - 11.30pm takeaways call Service and Good Conduct to Flight Lieutenant Elizabeth for their continued effort presenting awards to the 01296 Sunday620500 2.00pm10% - 10.00pmDISCOUNT / 620050 on collected orders over £15.00 Open 7 Days a week (including Bank Holidays) Home Delivery on orders over £20.00 Medal and completed a Stanley for her commitment to maintain and constantly Whole Force at RAF Halton on collectedFREE orders over £15.00 Mon-Thurs: 5.30pm10% DISCOUNT - 11.00pm further 10 years reckonable to the Co-Responders service. improve the World War I and, as head of RAF Sport, 01296 [email protected] 620500 / 620050(within 3 mile radius) Fri-Sat 5.30pmFREE - 11.30pm Home Delivery on orders over £20.00 service with an unblemished training trenches on Station. it was a pleasure to award Sunday 2.00pm - 10.00pm(within 3 mileFREE radius) PARKING AT REAR OF BUILDING disciplinary record. This was Warrant Officer Simon Jacobs [email protected] Sporting Colours, something FREE PRIVATE PARKING AT REAR57 Tring OF BUILDING Road Wendover HP22 6NU presented to was awarded an AOC 22 Mrs Debra Gower and Ms Jane he wishes he was called on to 10% DISCOUNT on collected orders over £15.00 57 Tring Road Wendover HP22 6NU Steve Mitchell. Group Commendation. Watson from the Commercial do more often. FREE Home OpenDeliverywww.thespicegarden.net 7 on Days orders a overweek £20.00 (including Bank Holidays) (within 3 mile radius) 20 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mon-Thurs: 5.30pm - 11.00pm FREE PRIVATEOpen PARKING 7 Days AT REAR a week OF BUILDING (including Bank Holidays) 57 Tring Road WendoverFri-Sat HP22 6NU 5.30pm - 11.30pm Mon-Thurs:Sunday 5.30pm 2.00pm - -10.00pm 11.00pm Fri-Sat 5.30pm - 11.30pm 10% DISCOUNTSunday on collected 2.00pm - orders 10.00pm over £15.00 FREE Home Delivery on orders over £20.00 10% DISCOUNT(within on collected 3 mile radius) orders over £15.00 Home Delivery on orders over £20.00 FREEFREE PRIVATE PARKING AT REAR OF BUILDING (within 3 mile radius) 57 Tring Road Wendover HP22 6NU FREE PRIVATE PARKING AT REAR OF BUILDING 57 Tring Road Wendover HP22 6NU Community Station Snippets and Charity EDUCATE – MOTIVATE – ACTIVATE HUGHENDEN SCHOOL VISIT Eleanor Tomlin

AF Halton held a Health cleaning in between the RAF HALTON and Wellbeing Day at teeth after eating or brushing, hildren and staff from the war as they attempted R Burnett Gym on 26th removing the build-up of Year 5 at Hughenden to make a bed with old February. The event covered a plaque and preventing further C Primary School visited fashioned sheets and rough wide range of areas essential problems developing. RAF Halton to take part in blankets. Museum Curator to maintaining a healthy and a history lesson revolving Mr Francis Hanford and his balanced lifestyle, including Other stalls tackled the around World War II. volunteers also helped the dental hygiene, physical impact drugs and alcohol children plan meals during fitness, safe driving, plus food have on the body and A range of activities were rationing and understand the and alcohol consumption. cognition, damaging health greatly enjoyed by the danger of explosions, as well and impairing mental children, including sitting in as the vital role played by The aim of the day was to processing. This, paired with a bomb shelter, singing war- war-time aircraft plotters. raise awareness about key the road safety advice and time songs and preparing to health topics and motivate information stalls, highlighted be evacuated, complete with The visit was greatly enjoyed people to change their the risks drugs and alcohol a personally-labelled box by the Hughenden students, behaviours for the benefit carry when driving, affecting which would have contained with everyone learning of their health. Hence the reaction times, confidence their gas mask. about an important period event’s slogan was ‘Educate – and judgement, which could in this country’s history, in Motivate – Activate’. ultimately have an impact on The youngsters also gained a thought-provoking and your life. an insight into life during enthusing way. After tasting the nutritious samples and refreshments on Overall, the day was a offer, people could test their huge success and people physical fitness with various went away having gained sessions, including yoga, something, whether it was Zumba, spinning, and using knowledge, motivation to the Tanita scales. Exercise be healthier, a useful freebie, helps to maintain a healthy or a few snacks! A huge body, it improves mobility thank you must go to all that and reduces the risk of injury volunteered and contributed, and stress levels, whilst also allowing the event to being fun. run smoothly.

People were also informed It is important to arrange about the importance days like this to remind those of oral hygiene by the on Station their health and Dental Centre, particularly wellbeing is vital and should concerning the surprising not be neglected. It enables amount of sugars in soft them to perform as best they drinks. Interdental brushes can in their roles and live a were offered to encourage long and healthy life.

22 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 23 Community Community and Charity and Charity ‘TREES A CROWD’: HALTON TRAINEES SANTA WORKING IN THE COMMUNITY COMES TO RAF HALTON s part of RAF safe pedestrian and cycle Jan Holdsworth (SCSC) Halton’s Community path which is open to A Engagement everyone, encouraging a he annual Station brought the children an contribution, basic trainees ‘car-free’ day out to the Children’s Christmas early Christmas gift and a from Pearson Intake, Buckinghamshire countryside. T Party was held on selection box. Recruit Training Squadron Sunday 9th December 2018 volunteered to help Recruits worked with in Halton House Officers’ I am not sure that any of the maintain the newly built members of the public to Mess. As the children arrived selection box chocolate bars Waddesdon Greenway. plant hedgerows and trees with their Mums and Dads, actually managed to make alongside the path, with they were greeted by three their way home, but the The Waddesdon Greenway Pearson Intake working naughty elves who had been children were over the moon connects Aylesbury Vale hard all day to complete the put on the stairs for being to see Santa and we are so Parkway station with the task. All recruits found the mischievous. What didn’t help grateful to him for coming to village of Waddesdon and experience very satisfying was that we caught the Senior Halton for a special, early visit. the Rothschild residence and were proud to represent Elf laying down on the job as . The four- RAF Halton in supporting the well - he was so naughty! To see the children’s smiles kilometre route provides a local community. and excitement is amazing Once we got all of the elves and it gives us such pleasure back to work they showed seeing them so happy. As you the guests down to the know, these events are not party room, which was laid easy to organise and take an around the whole time and My final thank you has to out with balloons and table awful lot of time. suffered for it over the next go to Russell Riste, the decorations. The disco had few days as I don’t think his Officers’ Mess Manager, who already started and the music This year, Airplay Staff became legs had done that much was amazing from start to was going strong. involved with this event exercise in a long time. finish, even giving up his and I think the staff really time to stay during the party The children all sat down enjoyed themselves. The three Thanks must also go to Owen to ensure that everything for food and had chicken naughty elves were Airplay Clarke – your role was pivotal went smoothly. We really do nuggets, chips and lots and workers Kary Lamb, Katie and you know what it was but appreciate everything you lots of puddings. There was Wilton and Sarah McKinnon – I cannot possibly say what as did. Well that is it from me for fruit juice flowing, which was thank you so much for all your it’s all about the magic – and now…’til the next issue. much needed because of all help and enthusiasm. to Lorraine Ferns and Julie In the meantime, have the dancing going on, and Smith – thank you for giving fun and if you cannot be they all loved doing ‘Baby Naughty Senior Elf, Padre Mike up your time on a Sunday anything else in life, be kind Shark’. They also had a little Hall, was literally dancing to help. to each other. bit of a karaoke where they sang along to popular songs like ‘Bob the Builder’.

Alongside all of the dancing and the food and drink, the children really enjoyed having their faces painted with festive motifs. Lots of the children really loved our big snowman balloons and were dancing with them and taking them for walks. All of a sudden, Senior Elf (better known as Padre Mike Hall) came running onto the dance floor shouting, "Santa is here! Santa is here!"

Once the excitement had died down, every single child had the chance to visit Santa, who had not only come on a sneaky early visit but had

24 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 25 Community and Charity Sport DONATION TO RAF HALTON PROVES FRUITFUL

arlier in the year, Master skills. Participation in regular Fruiterer John Warner of activities will also enhance E the Worshipful Company the child’s emotional of Fruiterers went in search wellbeing, boost their self- of a charitable cause within esteem and improve their the Royal Air Force to social skills. support. As a result, RAF Halton were awarded £700 to Furthermore, the group is go towards an initiative for inclusive to families of those Service Children with Special SEN children, therefore Educational Needs (SEN). enabling parents and carers to create a support network Following the closure of amongst each other in the Children’s Centre in addition to accessing existing Wendover village, the Station Station welfare support. BACK ON THE ICE: launched a new club called ‘The Jigsaw Club’ in April The generous donation will Jewellery designed and produced 2018. A SEN based activity be used moving forward By Senior Aircraftwoman Chelsea Medlock club will enable children to to continue to build to your specifications, or choose SLIDING AT SPEED improve their fine motor on a successful project from our extensive range of new, atural Luge is a sport the track bit by bit, creating the week, a day of snow cut few mishaps occurring in the skills, overall motor function, ensuring longevity and which I discovered a mental image of the course training short. We decided practice runs. self-control, as well as their new opportunities for secondhand and antique pieces. whilst on SATTs at RAF for when we eventually to take a much-needed auditory, visual and tactile Service families. N Halton over three years ago – piece it all together. The break and visited the local The results of the races were I was instantly hooked. importance of control was town of Brixen, exploring the revealed once everyone had drilled into us all as without local amenities and, most completed their runs. The A year on from my last Ice this we couldn’t safely gain importantly, trying traditional novice category was won by Camp, it was once again speed on the track and things Italian pizza. Flying Officer Josh Main, with time to travel to Lüsen in can quickly go wrong if you Senior Aircraftman Dulan Northern Italy to experience lose concentration. Our week at the Ice Camp Patabendi and Corporal Matt more time on the ice. came to an end with a final Painter taking 2nd and 3rd This was my second year All of the customary feelings training day, followed by the respectively. The second competing at intermediate quickly resurfaced when all-important and anticipated and final race category was level; progressing from a the time came to slide, race day. There were two race to crown the overall RAF novice means longer tracks, with excitement and nerves categories and a total of six Champion. Senior Aircraftman more speed and much taking over. I’d like to say medals to be won. Before the Technician Sam Budd took more adrenaline. that getting back on the sled actual race we all got one 1st place with the fastest Servicing of Rolex, Tag, Omega, Raymond Weil, was like riding a bike, but practice run on the full track. time, followed by Corporal Gucci etc. Batteries fitted and waterproof At the start of Ice Camp there were definitely a few It was important that we all Lizzie Driver in 2nd place, our instructors familiarised bumps along the way. It was treated the practice run as with Flying Officer Josh Main, testing carried out on the premises. everyone with the basic drills important that our mishaps or our actual run in order to get receiving his second medal Top prices paid in cash for antique and to ensure we were content crashes didn’t dishearten us ourselves in the right frame of the competition, in 3rd. I with all of the safety aspects from giving it another go. of mind. The nerves were think it’s safe to say we are modern jewellery, watches (especially of the sport, as the majority of a challenge and emotions all looking forward to getting Rolex), coins, gold, silver, platinum and us hadn’t revisited these skills Even though the runs took were running high, with a back on the ice next year. for over a year. minutes or seconds to scrap precious metals. complete, the walk back up Part exchange available. Nothing can prepare you for with the sled certainly did the speed you build up as the not. The days saw us reaching length of the runs increase, high step counts on our but it’s one of the reasons we fitness trackers, with highs all take part in the sport – the of around 16,000 steps as thrill of completing the track, we climbed to the start of beating your own times as the track. This year we had well as the times of others. several novices join the team Before it was time for us to who initially received one- even think about the times to-one training but quickly we wanted on race day, the joined the intermediates due moment finally came to hit to their progression over the the track for training. The first first couple of days. With low few days were spent learning temperatures throughout

26 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 27 Sport Sport SIR SEFTON BRANCKER CROSS COUNTRY SPINNING WITH RACHEL FREE CLASSES AT THE RAF BADMINTON t was a bright but very Having already raced up Flight Lieutenant Tamsyn the last mile to secure a close cold day for the annual the grass slope to circle the Rutter had a battle on her victory. RAF Halton’s Corporal BURNETT GYM CHAMPIONSHIPS I Sir Sefton Brancker Cross famous tree, the runners only hands at the front of the field Kieran White finished a very Country match between the had the equivalent downhill with the fastest of the Police creditable 12th. Civil Service, Fire, Police and slope to regain their breath runners. Tamsyn held her Southern League stations. before heading back up. nerve and continued to put Overall the RAF had another This race, held at RAF Halton, Fortunately, this spot was the pressure on, eventually excellent year competing is traditionally cold and fast, popular with spectators and running away from her rival at this prestigious event, and this year’s route missed their enthusiastic cheers for the win. The RAF Halton winning the Ladies, Senior out the woodland section, helped keep the pace across course was quite a shock Men and the Veterans instead sending the runners the road and on through for Tamsyn, who had been team categories. up the grass slope in front of the trees. limited to only running on a the woods. treadmill during her four- After skirting the large sports month deployment on HMS field, which involved another Queen Elizabeth. of RAF Halton’s energy- sapping ‘slopes’, and passing In the Men’s Race, a large field in front of Halton House assembled and despite the Officers’ Mess, the course conditions produced some turned for home with a long excellent performances. Wing downhill run towards the start Commander Ben Livesey AF Badminton held Singles title to her haul and of the next lap. The Ladies’ and Senior Aircraftman Mike MONDAY 17:15 its annual Open Witting completed a hat-trick Race was approximately 4.4 Kallenberg led a small group R Championships from winning the Mixed Doubles miles long, with the men through the first two laps of 11th-13th February at with Flight Lieutenant Barry completing around 6.6 miles. the course, with the former ALL LEVELS WELCOME, JUST RAF Halton. With over 50 Garnham, who, while losing In the Ladies’ Race, eventually getting away in entrants, including numerous out on the Singles final, took BRING A TOWEL, WATER AND new players, competing home the doubles trophy in 15 events it proved a with Flight Sergeant Simon LOTS OF ENERGY challenging event for all Gaines. Gaines added to with a high standard of play his considerable collection across all events. Both the of trophies by winning WEDNESDAY 17:15 Ladies and Mens Singles the Masters Singles and were hard fought events Doubles; the latter with Chief THURSDAY 07:00 with the eventual winners Technician Dave Colman. being Corporal Alex Dodds Corporal Andy Atkins also and RAF Ladies Captain showed his potential by Senior Aircraftwoman Katie winning a long, 3-game SEE FACEBOOK PAGE - Witting respectively. final to take home the Mens Novice Singles title. SPINNING WITH RACHEL The Ladies Doubles Anyone interested in playing round robin was won badminton in the RAF at @SPINRACHEL by Witting and her RAF any level is encouraged to Reservist partner, Leading contact RAF Badminton via Aircraftwoman Jemima www.rafsportsfederation. Cheetham. Cheetham also uk/sports/raf-badminton- added the Ladies Novice association/.

28 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 29 Sport Introductory MEET THE EXEC STATION CLUBS We find out more about the Station Executives at RAF Halton – asking the questions which probably won’t come up in their Monday morning meetings.

BEST PIECE ADVICE YOU’VE WHO WOULD YOU INVITE TO & EVER BEEN GIVEN? Keep your YOUR IDEAL DINNER PARTY? eye on the ball. David Walliams, Richard Branson, Alexander Graham Bell, George DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN Clooney, Kelly Holmes. SPORTS CLUBS 3 WORDS: Hard-working, Conscientious, Fair. FAVOURITE QUOTE “My Mission in life is not merely HOBBIES AND PASTIMES: to survive, but to thrive; and to All sports, all adventurous training do so with some passion, some STATION CLUBS [email protected] SPORTS CLUBS Climbing - Fg Off Osborn activities, and family. compassion, some humour, and Astra Cinema - FS Hartley - - 952617267 Sub-Aqua - Sqn Ldr Maskell some style.” – Maya Angelou 22Gp - Dave.Hartley726@mod. - RAF High Wycombe - Peter. Football - WO TALENT/SKILL WHICH PEOPLE (American writer and civil gov.uk - 6055 Mainpoint Magazine - [email protected] - Gibson - PMS - Andrew. MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT rights activist). Sqn Ldr Hopton - Dental Centre 952215627 [email protected] WING COMMANDER TRAVIS YOU? I can cover my nostrils with WING COMMANDER JENNY Heritage (Inc Trenches/ - [email protected]. TONKIN – OC TRAINING WING my top lip (good for swimming HONE – OC SUPPORT WING QUICK FIRE FAVOURITES Museum/HHOM Tours - Wg uk - 6123 & Chris Connolly - Saddle Club - Harriet Golf Society - Sqn Ldr Styles Wing Commander Tonkin is upside down). Wing Commander Hone leads Film: The Greatest Showman Cdr Hough - Ops & Plans - Ian. SHQ - Chris.Connolly102@mod. Ditchburn - OC Accounts - - CTS - Gordan.Styles132@mod. responsible for the training and Support Wing, overseeing a Book: Endurance by Alfred [email protected] - 6641 gov.uk - 6736 [email protected]. gov.uk - 6715 delivery of 2500 new recruits WHO WOULD YOU INVITE wide variety of outputs which Lansing uk - 6192 through Recruit Training Squadron TO YOUR IDEAL DINNER provide a full range of services Musical artist/band: Usually indie Commissioning Club - Flt Lt Co Responders - FS Martial Arts - Cpl Rimmer - every year. In addition, he is PARTY? Alex Ferguson, Barrack underpinning RAF Halton’s Song: Coldplay – Fix You Claire Hobbs - ACS - Claire. Bedborough - CTS - Alex. Rugby - WO Hannah - Medical RTS - Helen.Rimmer324@mod. responsible for Airmen’s Command Obama, Kelly Brook, Justin Rose, Whole Force. Support Wing’s Food/Meal: Sunday Roast [email protected] - 6295 [email protected] - Centre - Rick.Hannah410@mod. gov.uk - 6548 Squadron (which enhances the Prince Harry. Mission is “to support the Holiday destination: Croatia 6944 gov.uk - 6810 Command, Management and personnel of RAF Halton in order Car: Mini Convertible RAF Halton Memorabilia Netball - Flt Lt Hobbs - ACS Leadership skills of 3000 newly FAVOURITE QUOTE to enable delivery of output” TV Show/Boxset: The last one I Shop - Cpl G Wigglesworth - STEM - FS Brettell - CMT - Cricket - Sgt Clarke - ADF - - [email protected]. promoted JNCOs and SNCOs), “The way you see people is the and Wg Cdr Hone is responsible watched was Friends, circa 2000! SMS - Gary.Wigglesworth305@ [email protected]. [email protected] uk - 6295 Specialist Training Squadron way you treat them and the for areas including personnel Sport: Rugby/Downhill Skiing mod.gov.uk - 6471 uk - 6240 - 6029 (which delivers pan-Defence way you treat them is what they management, infrastructure, Subject at school: PE Orienteering - SAC Cloak - specialist training course to over become” - von Goethe (an 18th community development and Theatre Club & Music Club RAFA - Mr Mockford Angling (Carp) - Sgt Crook IFPT - Timothy.Cloake100@mod. 5000 personnel each year), and century writer and statesman) welfare support. EITHER/OR - CT Mitchell - CTS - Steve. - Medical Centre - Dean. gov.uk the delivery of Force Development “The more I practise, the luckier I Tea or coffee? Coffee [email protected] - 6717 ACLO - FS French - CTS - Gareth. [email protected] - 6764 to all Halton personnel (including get” – Gary Player (South African ABOUT YOU X-Factor or Strictly? X-Factor [email protected] - Squash - FS Brettell - CMT - Lodger Units). professional golfer). HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN Night-in or Night-out? In Conservation Committee 6102 & FS Williams - Wendy. Boxing - Cpl Stensland - PSF [email protected]. IN THE MILITARY? Since Early bird or night owl? Early - SSHEA - SHQ - HAL- [email protected] - 6457 - [email protected]. uk - 6240 ABOUT YOU QUICK FIRE FAVOURITES August 1996. Star Wars or Star Trek? Star Wars [email protected] uk - 6321 HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN Film: The Hangover Cat or dog? Dog - 6495 YALO - Fg Off Rose Phillips - Water-Skiing/ THE MILITARY? 26 years: 10 as a Book: The Girl with the Dragon BEST JOB YOU’VE DONE? Theatre or cinema? Theatre TDF - Rose-Marie.Phillips129@ Cross Country, Halton Wakeboarding - Physical Training Instructor and 16 Tattoo by Stieg Larsson Deployed Ops. Batman or Spiderman? Halton Aeroplane Club - mod.gov.uk - 6330 Hills & Road Racing - Flt Cpl Brown - IFPT as an Officer. Musical artist/band: Maroon 5 Batwoman! Gp Capt Manwaring - JALO- Lt Humphreys - RTS DSC - - Samuel.Brown151@ Song: Most Rugby National IF YOU WEREN’T IN THE COS - Mark.Manwaring536@ If you would like your Station Laurence.Humphreys541@mod. mod.gov.uk - 6838 BEST JOB YOU’VE DONE? Anthems MILITARY, YOU’D BE: An Air mod.gov.uk - 020 721 82038 Club adding to the list, please gov.uk As an Airman: PTI running Pre- Food/Meal: Nachos Hostess (not tall enough!) contact Eleanor Tomlin; Eleanor. If you would like your Sports Parachute Selection Training for Holiday destination: Skiing in Chiltern Gliding - Sqn Ldr [email protected] Cycling Club - CT Mallen - Club adding to the list, please RAF Regiment for 2 years. As an Three Valleys in France BEST PIECE ADVICE YOU’VE Twaite - BEN-ELW-LOGS Sqn - Ext: 6408 CTS - [email protected]. contact Eleanor Tomlin; Officer: I should probably say my Car: Aston Martin DB9 EVER BEEN GIVEN? What’s OC uk - 6734 [email protected] current job, closely followed by TV Show/Boxset: Spooks meant for you will not go by you. my role in Manning running career Sport: Aberdeen FC DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 3 management for all Personnel Subject at school: PE WORDS: Short, fun, passionate. Junior Officers (when the desk was one branch). EITHER/OR HOBBIES AND Tea or coffee? Tea PASTIMES: IF YOU WEREN’T IN THE X-Factor or Strictly? Strictly Travel, skiing, MILITARY, YOU’D BE: Something Night-in or Night-out? In fitness, wine to do with sport: a professional Early bird or night owl? Early and gin! shinty player (but there is no such Star Wars or Star Trek? Star Wars thing), so maybe a footballer to Cat or dog? Dog TALENT/SKILL WHICH earn the money – but more likely Theatre or cinema? Cinema PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW a golfer (if I turned all my efforts Batman or Spiderman? ABOUT YOU? That’s the way I to it). Spiderman like it!

30 Mainpoint Spring 2019 Mainpoint Spring 2019 31 GORDON’S SCHOOL BOARDING IN SURREY

Years 7, 9 and 12 boarding places available from £5,378 per term. Ranked in the top 1% of all schools in England and Wales over the past 3 years at A Level. www.gordons.school

Gordon’s – The Most Unique School in England

Built by public subscription over a century ago at the insistence of Queen Victoria, Gordon’s School is the national monument to General Charles Gordon of Khartoum and is listed as one of Britain’s outstanding schools by Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector.

A non-selective, co-educational residential and day boarding school, the School is in the top 1% of all schools in England and Wales for progress at A Level.

While embracing modern ideas, General Gordon’s legacy of traditional values remains. The School’s ethos is that high performance without good character is not true success.

To this end, it’s not just the classrooms where students excel. Successes are achieved in drama; the arts; debating; public speaking; dance and sport. The School also boasts an enviable record in attaining Duke of Edinburgh awards.

Set in some 50 acres of Surrey countryside within easy access of major airports and roads, the School is home to around 800 students and offers Day and Residential (weekly and termly) Boarding from only £5,378 per term.

There are three main admission points – at 11 years old; 13 years old and for Sixth Form. Scholarships in sport and the creative arts are offered for those coming into the Sixth Form. Scholarships include a monetary award and provide beneficiaries with a programme to enhance their development and give them wider opportunities to progress in their field. Bursaries are also available.

The real judgement of Gordon’s is the students. All who visit are struck by the friendliness, discipline and vibrancy throughout the school and by the family atmosphere, exemplified by the special rapport between staff and students. This is borne from a community that strives to live with integrity, to be courteous, enthusiastic and diligent, even in adversity.

Gordon’s School is unique. Please book a visit and find out why.

Gordon’s School, West End, Woking, Surrey GU24 9PT Telephone: 01276 858084 Website: www.gordons.school