MainThe Official Magazine of RAF HaltonpointWinter 2020

Mainpoint SpringSTATION 2017 SNIPPETS | COMMUNITY AND CHARITY | SPORTS self-refer to counsellors and experts benefit from a bespoke mixed students have marched and there in mental health fields are regularly boarding house. has always been Pipes and Drums. invited in to speak to students Dressed in their Blues the students in assembly. While the School boasts a 100 per parade around eight times a year cent success rate at A Level, putting and the school is the only one in the Robust policies and practice it in the top one per cent of schools country permitted to march along underpin the school’s values in areas nationally for progress for the past Whitehall, an annual event in the such as behaviour, anti-bullying and four years, the ethos is that high school’s calendar in remembrance of A ‘home from home’ to nearly 300 diversity. As part of the curriculum, performance without good character General Gordon. boarders – over half of whom are PSHE combines a positive focus on is not true success. from Service families – Gordon’s a well-being, strengths and healthy co-ed senior school in West End, choices with specific information To this end, it’s not just the Surrey is particularly conscious of on problems and issues that may classrooms where students excel. the need to promote the social and present at some point in life. Successes are achieved in drama; emotional well-being of its students. the arts; debating; public speaking; Each student is assigned to one of dance and sport as well as The Duke While some level of mental health ten Boarding Houses with House of Edinburgh awards. Each residential boarding house challenge at school is inevitable Parents providing a ‘home from provides a ‘home from home’ with House Parents providing a due to the emotional and physical home’ and lending special And while the individual is unique atmosphere to transitions involved in growing up, atmosphere to each House. Those celebrated, the whole School unites each House. students from military families may coming into the school aged 11 for parades. Since its inception, GORDON’S SCHOOL also have to contend with being uprooted from different countries For the past four years Gordon’s has been in the While the individual is celebrated, the whole school and schools and leaving friends and top one per cent of the country for progress at unites for parades and Gordon’s is the only school in BOARDING IN SURREY family behind with each new posting. A Levels. But it’s not just the classrooms where the country permitted to march along Whitehall – an There may also be the worry if a students excel. Successes are achieved in drama; annual event in remembrance of General Gordon. the arts; debating; public speaking; dance and parent is involved in a conflict. sport as well as The Duke of Edinburgh awards.

All Gordon’s teaching staff are trained to understand the risk factors Ranked in the top 1% of all schools in England and Wales to well-being, raise awareness about mental health problems and their role in early intervention. In addition, for progress over the past 4 years at A Level. a school mentor provides a listening ear and support. Students can Years 7, 9 and 12 boarding places available.

Indian Cuisine Indian Cuisine Indian Cuisine

Banquet every Sunday & Wednesday Indian Cuisine Banquet Banquet every every SundaySunday & &Only Wednesday Wednesday £14.95 per person Indian Banquet Cuisine every SundayChoose: & Wednesday 1 Poppadom, 1 Starter, 1 Main Dish, Only Only£14.95 £14.95 per1 Side person person Dish, 1 Rice or Naan followed by Coffee Only £14.95 per person(Dining in only) Banquet every SundayChoose: & Wednesday1 Poppadom, 1 Starter, 1 Main Dish, OnlyChoose: £14.95 1per1 Side Poppadom, person Dish, 1 Rice or Naan 1 Starter, followed by 1 Coffee Main Dish, Choose: 1 Poppadom,(Dining in1 only) ForStarter, reservations 1 Main and takeawaysDish, call Choose: 11 Poppadom, Side Dish, 1 Starter, 1 Rice 1 Main or Dish, Naan followed by Coffee For reservations and takeaways01296 call 620500 / 620050 1 Side1 Dish,Side 1 Rice Dish, or Naan 1 followed Rice(Dining byor Coffee Naan in only) followed [email protected] by Coffee (Dining in only)01296 620500 / 620050www.thespicegarden.net [email protected](Dining in only) For reservations and takeawayswww.thespicegarden.net call Open 7 Days a week (including Bank Holidays) Mon-Thurs: 5.30pm - 11.00pm 01296For 620500 reservationsOpen / 620050 7 Days a week and(including takeawaysBank Holidays)Fri-Sat 5.30pm call - 11.30pm [email protected]: 5.30pm - 11.00pmSunday 2.00pm - 10.00pm www.gordons.school Forwww.thespicegarden.net reservationsFri-Sat 5.30pmand - 11.30pm takeaways call 01296 Sunday620500 2.00pm10% - 10.00pmDISCOUNT / 620050 on collected orders over £15.00 Open 7 Days a week (including Bank Holidays) FREE Home Delivery on orders over £20.00 10% DISCOUNT on collected orders over £15.00 Mon-Thurs: 5.30pm - 11.00pm (within 3 mile radius) 01296 [email protected] Home620500 Delivery on orders / over620050 £20.00 BESPOKE RESIDENTIAL BOARDING CONTINUITY OF EDUCATION CLOSE TO LONDON AND ITS Fri-Sat 5.30pmFREE - 11.30pm (within 3 mileFREE radius) PRIVATE PARKING AT REAR OF BUILDING HOUSE FOR YEAR 7 STUDENTS ALLOWANCE (CEA) ACCEPTED AIRPORTS BY ROAD AND RAIL Sunday 2.00pmwww.thespicegarden.net - 10.00pm [email protected] PRIVATE PARKING AT REAR OF BUILDING 10% DISCOUNT on collected orders over £15.00 57 Tring Road Wendover HP22 6NU FREE Home OpenDeliverywww.thespicegarden.net 7 on Days orders57 Tring a overweek Road £20.00 (includingWendover HP22 Bank 6NU Holidays) (within 3 mile radius) 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 Contents Winter 2020 From The Editor Editorial Team Station Commander’s Foreword STATION SNIPPETS

Editor 06 Stand By Yer Beds Flt Lt Sarah Hindley Group Captain D Startup RAF 08 Station Commander's Coin Tel: 01296 656666 08 All Aboard! 08 Esports Arena Opens For Battle On Mental Health EDITOR'S 09 Halton Veteran Receives French Award Deputy Editor One Team, Training People for Defence 09 JIAG Support To Lebanese Armed Forces Eleanor Tomlin 09 Catalina Comes Home 10 RAF Police Joint Policing Picture Editor 10 Rewind, Pause And Forward FOREWORD Kate Parrott WELCOME TO THE WINTER EDITION 11 Padres' Piece - The Roadmap For Life 11 Successful Solution Celebrated s you read this, Solution Celebrated’, while Distribution OF MAINPOINT. 12 Uninvited Guests 2020 will be ending the curtailment of sports Courtesy of the Central Registry 13 You Have A Voice Use It! and many will be training and events resulted 14 Graduation Round Up and Fire Section y thanks, as 17 Media Magic quite happy about in innovative ways to train that!A I had wondered what and compete, as shown in the ever, to Eleanor COMMUNITY & CHARITY Photography Support content would be available ‘Horses for Courses’ and ‘No Kate Parrott, Luka Waycott Tomlin and 18 Spring-er In My Step to put in this issue but as Ordinary Team’ articles. & Greg Mandy Sarah Hindley 18 Running 2020 usual there was no shortage Tel: 01296 656117 forM pulling together the 19 Pumpkin Potter & Porches of events and activity despite Of course, some sections articles and of course to 19 Soaring Through Blue Contact Us: all the contributors. 20 National Inclusion Week the COVID restrictions. at Halton have continued [email protected] 21 Tower Top Thrills We have still been able to their output throughout the The incredible achievement 21 Poppy Power celebrate Remembrance Day pandemic, changing their Submission Deadline 22 Our Community's Lockdown Spirit of the whole Station to pull and Halloween and held a ways of operating in order 12-Feb-21 23 Red or Brown Sauce? together, adapt and return Road Safety Week, although to reduce the COVID-19 risk. SPORTS to full operational capability all original plans had to be In ‘Graduation Roundup’ during successive periods 24 Powering Up! scaled back; our well-being, there are a few noticeable of challenges cannot be 24 No Ordinary Team already important, has taken differences between these Publishing Team 25 Horses For Courses overstated. The reputation of on new significance and is parades and those of two Published RAF Halton as a Station that INTRODUCTORY enabled through channels years ago – social-distancing, as varied as the TCC Butty few or no families and friends Lance Print Limited, 1st Floor, gets on with business and 26 Meet the New... Mornings and the opening in attendance…and beards! Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, delivers has been recognised MISC Northants, NN16 8NL within Defence and I thank of the e-Sports Arena; and So life at Halton continues, Tel: 01536 334222 you all for your efforts. It is 27 Winter Driving Halton personnel have and we start to look ahead to Email: [email protected] still mid-November as I write continued unabated to fund- a New Year and the usual new Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk this and I am breaking my raise for charity with, frankly, beginnings: join the gym, lose own rule for mentioning it, insane challenges such as the Christmas pounds and Dry Advertising but I hope that you are all Stephen Hearn running 100 km non-stop, January…but I imagine many Ken able to enjoy the run up to abseiling the Portsmouth of us are also looking forward Tel: 01536 334225 Christmas and are able to get Spinnaker or Skydiving! to 2021 in the hope that it Email: [email protected] some well-deserved leave We generally think of COVID will be much more normal! when we get there. Some as causing restrictions, Design of us will still be in work, but humans are inherently Ed Lance Print Ltd but those numbers will be Fine Art and Antique Auctioneers and Valuers. Est. 1982 inventive. Read about the Amanda Robinson absolutely minimised. Feel Workshops Team receiving a Babcock Award in ‘Successful Tel: 01536 334226 free to get the decorations Our salesrooms continue to attract a wide range of customers from Email: [email protected] up…in December. throughout the UK and across the world and we deal with almost everything

that comes out of your home whether 17th century or 21st century. Printed Alongside its core business, Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon the Station’s personnel have social media outlets that that many have suffered from Visit our website and view the sales catalogues with accompanying Road, Orton Southgate, been truly awesome in their are becoming more popular this disease and it is right that illustrations, you will find us at www.tringmarketauctions.co.uk Peterborough, PE2 6TD contribution to the wider each day. we do our utmost to combat Tel: 01733 390564 community, be that through it. I hope that we are able to • Valuations for Sale, Probate & Insurance • Total and Part House Clearance Specialists charity sporting events, By the time you read this, return to a better normality Shoe Repairs, Email: [email protected] parades, competitions or I hope that the first of the early in the New Year; there • Fine Art and 20th Century Decorative Arts Sales ROZELLE Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk breakfasts. Some of those RAF’s COVID-19 station testing are certainly many social • Fortnightly Sales of Antique & Modern Furniture and collectables Key Cutting, SCHOOL of DANCE events are covered in this units is up and running at events that are stored up. We provide a full service to meet all your requirements Sports Trophies Magazine, but many more are Halton. This capability has & Engraving ~ Ballet ~ Tap ~ not. I would like to recognise been developed by our In the meantime, please keep ~ Theatre Craft ~ Disclaimer: everyone for their efforts and Executive Team to provide well, stay safe, look after This publication is copyright Lance Print Limited and Classes for children may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in maximise the support the one of many layers of defence each other and continue to Also dry cleaning whole or in part without prior written permission of Station is able to give those against disease transmission get involved in all that the from 3 years Lance Print Limited. While every care has been taken & watch batteries during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Print events, especially those that on the Station and will be a Station has to offer. Feel free Tap Classes for adults Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy to include me in your mince of the information herein or for any consequence are charity focused, so please showcase for the whole of Wendover Memorial Hall arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication tell me of your plans! Defence. I also expect that pie and mulled-wine tasting are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Wharf Road I would like to express my many of our personnel will competitions; I am happy to 27 High Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE Ministry of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright www.tringmarketauctions.co.uk For information unless otherwise stated. special thanks to OC PMS be contributing heavily to award a Coin (the current list The Market Premises, Brook Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5ED Tel: 01844 274651 Tel: 01296 622001 and the media team for whole-town testing across is included in this edition) for Email: [email protected] [email protected] t: 01442 826446 e: [email protected] bringing those events to our the rest of the country. I know the best!

4 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 5 Station Snippets other miscreants, some of which date back to the 20’s and 30’s. Among the names are also many mentions of an Apprentice Entry number STAND BY YER BEDS reminding us how long the Apprentices were at Halton. Sergeant Russ Barber, MPGS SNCO All Images: UK MOD CROWN COPYRIGHT RESERVED 2020 Station Photography Section Now the building itself could benefit from a refurbishment but four Sections of MPGS happily call it home; in addition to the duty shift and Passes and Permits, the Sodexo Accommodation Cell is also within the building. We are the In fact, there are known first point of call for all visitors instances of Duty Officers and the font of all wisdom refusing to go ahead as they for the day to day operations knew of the impending roar! of an extremely busy Station. The RAF Police still have a We never know from one day booking-in facility in the to the next what we will deal Guardroom, but the two with but still have issues that remaining cells are now are new and amusing, ranging unlicensed due to changes from a 4-tonner of personnel in the law – although still arriving at the ‘wrong Halton’ awaiting a decision on to Senior Officers unsure of the he Main Guardroom Originally, the building their decommissioning. course they are arriving for…! staffed by the Military had a Belvedere (tower) The exercise yard has lost Provost Guard housing a fire bell; although its barbed wire halo but The MPGS is currently Service (MPGS) and the Belvedere is no more, still etched into the bricks recruiting, so if you are TPasses and Permits since the bell is on display in the are the names and dates coming to the end of your August 2012 is the front of Guardroom foyer having of imprisoned ‘Erks’ and RAF career give us a shout! house for RAF Halton, but ‘done some time’ in SHQ. the history of the building goes back much further. “Stand by yer Beds!” How On 1 April 1918, Halton Park many ‘guests’ have heard became the home of No1 that immortal cry in the Military Provost Guard Service School of Technical Training corridors near the cells? In for the newly formed Royal every Guardroom on every Recruitment Air Force. The old wooden Station since 1 Apr 1918, barracks built initially were that phrase has been MPGS Needs slowly replaced by permanent bellowed by the buildings and in 1921 the Duty SNCO, aimed YOU! Opportunities exist for serving Main Guardroom was built. It at the back of the and ex-serving personnel has been in operation for its Duty Officer in To be eligible you must have served a minimum of 3 years military service in HM Forces original purpose ever since front of them, (RN, Army, RAF, RNR, TA or RAFR), with a discharge assessment and how many buildings on their way to of Very Good or above. You at Halton can claim that! inspect the cells. must have less than a 6 Year Gap between previous service and re-enlistment. All previous ranks and up to a 10 year gap, for those who previously held the rank of substantive Cpl or above. Those serving with at least 3 months left on their contract can apply for transfer via their Career Manager.

MPGS soldiers enjoy certain service benefits including: • Competitive rates of pay • Deployment restricted to a 30 mile radius of assigned Unit • Soldiers are entitled to SSA and SFA accommodation where available • 38 days paid annual leave per year

Designed and Produced by RAF Honington Media Services Ext 7966

To Apply Serving personnel who meet the criteria, consult your RCMO or Service equivalent and refer to AGAI Chapter 43, Part 9 Organisation and Management of the AGC (MPGS) SPSO on 01264 382049 for more information. All other applicants who meet the criteria register and apply on-line at www.army.mod.uk/agc/provost/31907.aspx or call 0345 600 8080

6 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 7 Station Snippets Station Snippets STATION COMMANDER’S COIN ESPORTS ARENA OPENS FOR he Station loyalty and dedication across HALTON VETERAN JIAG SUPPORT TO Commander, Gp various areas, including RAF BATTLE ON MENTAL HEALTH Capt Dan Startup, 100 ceremonial coordination, RECEIVES FRENCH AWARD LEBANESE ARMED FORCES has presented National Inclusion Week, staff Flight Lieutenant James Palfrey etired Squadron qualifying as an airframe Lieutenant Commander Adam Warland, Royal Navy Tseveral military personnel shortages and improvements Leader, Alexander fitter and later assisting the and civilian staff at RAF to work. Below is a list of Gilbert DFC liberation of France during ebanon has Halton with limited edition the deserving winners, and (Distinguished Flying World War II. On retirement, experienced several Station Commander’s Coins. we would like to pass on RCross), has been appointed he was offered a post at crises in recent The awards were made for our own congratulations. to the rank of Chevalier in RAF Halton and completed months; in addition to Lthe recent protests against 18 Sep Georgina Pretty Sodexo Halton House the Order National de la ten years of service as Wing Legion d’Honneur, after Admin Officer on the Herts government corruption Officer Mess receiving notification by and Bucks ATC, before and tax increases, and the 30 Sep WO Barry Johnson Ex WO Recruit Training the French Ambassador to hanging up his uniform in economic crisis compounded Squadron by COVID-19, images were the United Kingdom, Ms 1986 after 45 years of service. Col Elias Aad (L) presenting a gift broadcast around the world 30 Oct Dr Paul Gardener Dental Centre Catherine Colonna. The to Lt Cdr Adam Warland for the award was established by Squadron Leader Gilbert of the warehouse explosion assistance provided following the 3 Nov Flt Lt Megan Rowlands Recruit Training Napolean Bonaparte and was invited to RAF Halton at Beirut’s Port in August port explosion. Squadron is the highest French order to have tea with the Station 2020 resulting in more than 3 Nov Kate Parrott Babcock Photo of merit, in recognition of Commander, Group Captain 200 deaths and displacing in developing a proactive Luka Waycott both military and civilian’s Dan Startup, and Station tens of thousands of people. media campaign plan of I was one of the advisors sent social media messages Greg Mandy steadfast involvement in Executives in Halton House. the Liberation of France He brought along his medal by the UK to assist. The Joint communicating key 4 Nov Tammy Stoker Accounts during WW2. and insignia to show, whist Information Activities Group themes to specific targeted Sharlene LaBorde Wing Commander Ian Hough (JIAG) have developed strong audiences, rather than just a 17 Nov Elisse Salter Stats & Plans Squadron Leader Gilbert gave a short talk about the links with the Lebanese reactive response to events. began his varied RAF flying changes to the RAF and RAF Armed Forces (LAF) since A key area of co-operation Images taken by Station Photography Section. career in late 1940 with Halton over the years since 2017. I was deployed to the was the official visit of six months at Kirkham, Gilbert had served. Lebanese Ministry of Defence General Aoun, Commander- he RAF Video by the software on each for two months as a Strategic in-Chief LAF, to the UK in Games and Esports PC, and in turn to the Images taken by Station Photography Section. Communication Advisor, October 2020, focussing ALL ABOARD! Association network of gamers known as focusing on the LAF's on the United Kingdom’s (RAFVGEA) has the RAFVGEA. strategic communication, support to Lebanon, its raditionally Halton who were socially distanced Trecently opened its arena information and media land and maritime border House Officers’ across the ‘ship’. above the Chilterns Club Funded by both the Nuffield operations in response to security and the LAF’s role in Mess (HHOM) Although the event did not at RAF Halton. Video Trust and RAF Central Fund, these crises. The LAF are seen protecting human rights. The commemorates quite match the raucous gaming provides a plethora the room has received by its people as one of the visit was a success featuring Tthe Battle of Trafalgar with rolling broadsides and ripples of benefits, combatting over £14,000 of funding few apolitical institutions in widely across Lebanon’s a Dinner Night; however, of smoke from the battle 215 isolation and boredom and for both technical and soft Lebanon, but following the media platforms, and as the COVID-19 restrictions meant years ago, it did show how connecting different groups, furnishings. This fantastic explosion, public perceptions only foreign officer routinely the Mess Committee had Admiral Nelson’s leadership, cultures and beliefs, while facility is available to Whole- of the LAF were low – working in the LAF HQ, to get creative! HHOM tactics and understanding increasing mental resilience Force personnel and their particularly by those living in the deployment provided transformed into HMS of maritime warfare helped and strategic decision- families for events ranging the immediate blast radius. an important opportunity Halton, with the floor of him lead his crew to one of making times. from one night “game fests” To change this perception, for further collaboration the Salon becoming the the greatest naval victories to Local Area Network (LAN) the LAF were supported between our two nations. quarter deck of a ship, while in history – despite being Previously used for the parties, where the committee the balcony turned into significantly outnumbered. Boxing Club, the room members will manage an the rigging. Squadron Leader (Retired) took approximately nine Esports style tournament on a months to convert under game of your choice. Military Historian Frank Gwyn Williams attended the the self-help scheme. After CATALINA COMES HOME Ledwidge and Royal Navy event stating, “It was good to depositing four kilograms As a member of the RAFVGEA Lieutenant Scott Lewis gave be back in the Mess after a six- of poly filler into the walls, you have access to the arena a colourful and interactive month absence, to hear about the committee members at RAF Halton, full of high demonstration of the Battle the impressive battle and enjoy could build something truly spec gaming PC’s with the of Trafalgar to personnel a traditional tot of rum!’. fantastic and fit for both the latest games and peripherals. current and next generation You can also utilise all twenty- of service personnel. The three Esports arenas planned arena is currently limited across the entire RAF and to six personnel, under the a gaming base of over a Covid-19 rules, however at thousand members, instantly max capacity the arena can connecting you to semi- sit eighteen people across professional Esports teams multiple platforms, including from games like Call Of Duty, A Catalina Seaplane visited recently, parking outside Halton’s two console and PC. Although Rainbow 6 Siege, Starcraft Seaplane hangars (to the left), image taken by Mark Devlin, Airfield The Seaplane hangars at Halton are almost as far from the coast as separately seated they are 2, Valorant, Overwatch and Manager. possible! Image taken by Mark Devlin, Airfield Manager. Images taken by Station Photography Section. inherently interconnected many more.

8 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 9 Station Snippets Station Snippets RAF POLICE JOINT POLICING REWIND, PAUSE AND FORWARD PADRES' PIECE - SUCCESSFUL SOLUTION Eleanor Tomlin CONTACT DETAILS Call Local Civil Police, THE ROADMAP FOR LIFE Thames Valley Police he Royal Air Force achieve a teaching degree CELEBRATED Call RAF Halton Police (TVP) on: celebrates Black at University of London. Padre Ashley Mitchell on: Emergency 999 or 112 History Month every Errol Walton Barrow 01296 656111 or Non-Emergency 101 year, with Recruits completed bombing Ton McTeague and Jackson operations against targets 07773959440 (24 hrs) If you're deaf or hard Flights marking the occasion across occupied Europe, Call RAF High of hearing text TVP this year under the theme before being chosen as of: ‘Rewind the Past, Pause the personal navigator of Wycombe on: the Present and Forward Marshal of the RAF, Sir William Police on: Emergency 18000 999 to the Future.’ This saw Sholto Douglas. As the War 01494 496721 or Non-Emergency the Recruits separate into ended, Errol studied at the 07786 676623 (24 hrs) 18001 101 different groups to research London School of Economics. inspirational Servicemen He went on to form the or Women of colour and Democratic Labour Party Since June 2020 RAF Police Incidents across an increased deliver presentations to (DLP) in 1955 and become The Workshops Team, taken by Station Photography Section. at RAF Halton and RAF area of responsibility, colleagues. Feeling inspired the first Prime Minister High Wycombe have been conducted surge and by their research, they of Barbados; introducing operating as a joint Policing Security Operations and gained an understanding of measures to reduce poverty, he Workshops team Neal Misell, Chief Executive, unit. This has enabled us to worked jointly with Thames what people of colour went improve quality of life, and at RAF Halton have Aviation Babcock surge Police Officers to either Valley Police Force. We have through to be accepted. Their develop the industry and been selected as International Group, said, unit to enhance our Policing also supported both local final thoughts were that, tourism to the island. the winner of the “Congratulations again and Security Ops. During communities at several TBabcock 2020 Aviation to RAF Halton Workshop’s ‘whatever your religion, race this time, we have taken incidents, when our police or colour you can succeed if Sergeant William Clarke was Recognition Health & Safety success as a 2020 Aviation control of a wide variety of officers have been first on you are determined. Below not only the first to drive in Customer Engagement Recognition Award winner. Crimes and Incidents. We scene providing the initial are some of the notable Kingston, Jamaica, but was Award. The team designed During the past six months have attended Road Traffic response actions. figures they learned about. also Britain’s first Black pilot. and manufactured desktop we have all risen to the He worked as a chauffeur Perspex shields, allowing challenge of working in A studious and popular Lilian before joining the British Royal The Roadmap for Life (taken by Padre Mitchell). personnel and contractors different ways during the Bader remained at a Convent Flying Corps to fly engage to safely continue their pandemic, and as such, until aged twenty, when the in artillery observation and his time last year You had a ‘Road Map’ for work during the pandemic. their achievement is outbreak of WWII allowed reconnaissance operations I was deployed in 2020 that never really came These shields have also especially remarkable. Their her to escape as a Canteen with No. 4 Squadron, at the Middle East to fruition, along with a been in high demand dedication, commitment Assistant at Catterick Camp Abeele in Belgium. However, and found myself variety of emotions like the from other sites and and service during this NAAFI. Lilian was soon sacked a bullet through the spine Ttravelling around Arabia from frustration of unfulfilled organisations, showing the time is appreciated by me, however, after the discovery from an enemy fighter October to February. Like all plans, to the tragic loss of success of their solution. the Aviation Board and all her father had been an landed William in hospital deployments you have a ‘Chuff loved ones to COVID-19 and their colleagues across the immigrant. She later qualified at Lichfield, Staffordshire. Chart’ counting down the other circumstances - often The judges were Sector. The judges were as an Instrument Repairer After he recovered and was day until to the end of your with limited opportunities impressed with the extremely impressed by in the Women’s Auxiliary Air officially discharged, William tour, while making plans for to grieve and say farewell. team’s quick reaction their nomination and the Force, repairing all kinds of returned to Jamaica and was everything you will do once Such experiences throw us to the requirement for contribution they have important equipment for soon appointed Life President you are back home. Even if I back to the basics of life COVID-19 safety measures made to the business.” two years until she left to of the Jamaican branch of the say so myself, I like to think I and questioning what really and clear demonstration mother two children and RAF Association. had an excellent ‘Road Map’ in matters: our safety, our of many ‘Being Babcock’ Steve Coleman, RAF Halton’s mind for 2020 and my return security, our relationships, principles, serving as a Babcock Team Manager, The partnership has enabled both units to share resources UK MOD CROWN COPYRIGHT RESERVED to the United Kingdom... having food in the cupboard, credit to the Aviation said, “I am extremely proud 2020 Station Photography Section. and invaluable knowledge, during what has been a a roof over our head, Sector. Unfortunately, of the team’s success. They challenging year for all. Throughout this time, we have A family skiing trip to France someone to listen to us with the team were unable to have shown dedication ensured the highest standards of Policing and Security are in March, my daughter off to compassion and comfort attend a dinner whilst and commitment by provided to both units and the wider community. Lourdes in April, ourselves us when we are in need. receiving the award; their hard work and long to Belgium; London in May; however, there will be a hours to keep not just RAF France in August; and finally, We do not know quite how virtual Annual Conference Halton safe, but other sites Norfolk in October. I am long life will continue this to celebrate instead. and organisations.” sure you would agree that way. However, we are all sounded like a great plan, encouraged to keep faith but you will not be surprised with each other, stay hopeful to learn none of it ever for the future, and remain happened – except for a day loving with those around us. trip to the French Alps, just in As Saint Paul wrote: time for the resort to close! ‘Meanwhile, these three remain: faith, hope, and I am quite sure it was the love; and the greatest same for you, reader. of these is love.’

10 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 11 GOLD GOLD GOLD To pPrices Paid In Cash ForYour ScrapPrecious Metals Including Unwanted Jewellery, Coins &Watches. PartExchange Available

Station Snippets Station Snippets A B C UNINVITED GUESTS Francis Hanford YOU HAVE A VOICE – USE IT! AYLESBURYBULLION COMPANY The FamilyofJewellers n 2015, RAF Halton’s discovered that Peter Flt Lt Sarah Hindley, Station Flight Safety Officer (SFSO) Airfield controller, Hillwood, the pilot, had met 11a, High St AylesburyBuckinghamshire HP201SH Squadron Leader Gary low cloud on his approach e all love a safety or efficiency’ and Tel: Coleman was stunned to Booker and had to divert good moan, do can be raised by anyone. 01296423198 Ito receive a request to to Halton. The Triplane was YOU HAVE A VOICE – LET IT BE HEARD! we not? But if There are a few caveats for land from the pilot of a a replica aircraft being used you just moan reporting via InForm: it is replica World War I Fokker by 20th Century Fox Films Wand don’t act, nothing will no substitute for a F7454 if Cpl Obi Okere Triplane running short for Sir Percy Ware-Armitage change! There are various Health & Safety need to be (Terry-Thomas) to ‘fly’ in on fuel – and who should formats available for making aware of an occurrence, and voice for all! Good spot, allowing members of ‘Those Magnificent Men in land but no other than your voice heard at Halton. if the issue concerns Infra, communication and the council to take solutions their Flying Machines’, a Bruce Dickinson, the lead In addition to the Jnr Ranks’ certain procedures should be transparency are back to the workplace film that was to become singer of Iron Maiden. Council, there are forums for followed, usually involving key for the people immediately. Other times, a great box-office success Civil Servants, Contractors and the Building Custodian or Aof RAF Halton. information will be collated Bruce Dickinson was and whose theme tune is Military personnel. The Wel your Line Manager. As SFSO, by the Chair or Deputy still played regularly during permitted to land without Alert Form for highlighting I am responsible for staffing The Junior Ranks’ Council was Chair and passed onto RTS graduation parades. incurring any landing fees, welfare events, errors, hazards all InForms received at formed in August 2020, while the Station Executives to under the ‘Strasser Scheme.’ or concerns has just been RAF Halton, so if you have COVID-19 had its tight grip provide feedback. Nevertheless, the teaching This is an initiative which advertised in SROs and a concern please contact across the country and the staff and apprentices were allows general aviation most of us are aware of the me and I will advise what personnel of RAF Halton were Although in its infancy, the delighted to care for the aircraft to have landing fees Accident and Near-Miss Form, actions should be followed. working hard to maintain a Junior Ranks’ Council has Avro Triplane and fascinated waived in the event of an F7454. Many personnel also The InForm is available positive output. This year has already fixed some of the to see its incredibly complex emergency landing. The know of InForms, but most on the Station Sharepoint caused most areas of defence issues that personnel face rigging but reliable engine initiative was introduced see this as a Flight Safety homepage but if you cannot to adopt new ways of during their time at RAF – even to the extent of in 1997 with the increasing reporting system; however, access that just email me working and to ask questions Halton, improving working Jewellery designed and produced to your “borrowing” a jerry-can of popularity of flying and as the posters which are outlining the issue; use HAL- about what more can be environments and ultimately specifications, or choose from our petrol from MT to top it almost all Airports in hopefully now circulating [email protected]. done to streamline processes. making life on Station better. up prior to departure (it extensive range of new, secondhand the United Kingdom around the Station show, uk for InForms or concerns. Anything from welfare was felt that 100 octane and antique pieces. accept the scheme. InForms are for ‘reporting any Remember - if you report In order to promote good facilities for Phase 1 recruits aviation fuel would not event, error, hazard, near- an issue, action may or may communication and a to problems with Single l suit its 1928 engine). Diamond merchants However, aviation guidelines miss or concern which you not follow… but if you don’t constructive working Living Accommodation, (certified stones always available) were more relaxed in the believe did or could affect report it, nothing will change. environment, the council and of course, the bar, are Now the aircraft is used l Antique restorations 1960’s, with personnel is made up of Junior Ranks all open for discussion and during the Shuttleworth l Hand engraving arriving for work at Halton from Sections around approached with a positive Collection’s flying events l Valuations: insurance and probate Airfield one Monday the whole site including attitude by all. morning to find a 1910 Avro at Old Warden; hopefully it (carried out on the premises) instructors from Recruit Triplane parked outside will never have to make use l Training Squadron, Initial This is a platform that allows Insurance claims advisors the hangars! It was soon of the ‘Strasser Scheme’! l Complete repair service Force Protection Training, a direct communications link Force Protection Training between the Junior Ranks Servicing of Rolex, Tag, Omega, Raymond Weil, Flight, the Gymnasiums, and the Station Execs and Gucci etc. Batteries fitted and waterproof testing Photo Air Combat Service will continue to provide Support Unit and Human viable solutions. The Station carried out on the premises. Resources personnel. works hard to encourage Top prices paid in cash for antique and a simple and constructive The Junior Ranks’ Council reporting culture; however, modern jewellery, watches (especially Rolex), allows direct communication that is only possible with the coins, gold, silver, platinum and with the Station Commander support of the personnel scrap precious metals. (Stn Cdr) and the Station around camp. Part exchange available. The replica 1910 Avro Triplane in flight. Warrant Officer (SWO), encouraging people across If you wish to be a part of the Junior Rank cadre to this proactive and forward- voice their concerns in a thinking team responsible constructive way, allowing for positive change at RAF the smooth application of Halton then please contact timely solutions to any issues the Chair, Corporal Matt personnel around station Perry, Welfare and Support may encounter. The meetings Personnel (WaSP) or the 11a High Street, Aylesbury, are held monthly, with the Deputy Chair, Corporal Carl Stn Cdr and SWO attending Simpson, Force Protection. Buckinghamshire, HP20 1SH every other month. Often, You have a voice, let it be Tel: 01296 423198 problems are solved on the heard.

www.aylesburybullion.co.uk Bruce Dickinson’s Fokker Triplane in Hangar 1.

12 Vale Life : Nov/Dec 2019 23 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 13 Station Snippets

Graduation RoundAll Images: UK MOD CROWN COPYRIGHT RESERVED Up 2020 Station Photography Section.

14 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 15 Pearce Family Turkeys Station Snippets Make Christmas/Thanksgiving really special!

A spectacular delicious addition to your MEDIA MAGIC special day. Pearce Family Turkeys at Stoke Mandeville will supply a succulent, tasty Squadron Leader Tony Newton, 7644 Squadron bird for either occasion. Our Bronze 7644 Sqn Bags ‘Best This award demonstrates the Turkeys are free-range and reared in Reservist’ Award huge value that reservists Best Reservist Award for Corporal Sarabadu. accordance with the strict welfare standard Corporal Jon Sarabadu bring to the RAF and the of the Traditional Farm Fresh Turkey has been presented with wider military. Well done Jon!” Association. the ‘Best Reservist’ award www.farmgatetoplate.co.uk by the Lord-Lieutenant of Media Reservists Awarded Buckinghamshire in a virtual Commendation Tel 01296 612448 ceremony. He commented, Two RAF Media Reservists “I'm extremely honoured have been awarded a DCOM to receive this award, Ops Commendation in Appointments & Out Of Hours Care which doesn’t belong to the RAF Queen’s Birthday me alone but to all of the Honours List 2020. Flight teams and personnel that Lieutenants Ronan Carey K COLLINS ROOFING LTD supported me - the senior and Mark McKinstry were leaders, production teams, deployed as part of the Public FELT ROOFING SPECIALIST our squadron, mentors, Relations (PR) team for the ROOFMASTER APPROVED CONTRACTOR family and friends. It was Red Arrows tour of North those fantastic people who America in 2019, with 120 Est. 1969 encouraged me to continue personnel covering in excess to do my best throughout 22,000 miles and 74 days 55-season history, spanning Bridge and New York’s Hudson the most difficult times - a away. The team comprised over 25 cities, promoting UK River, with Manhattan’s huge thank you to everyone”. five PR personnel and four interests and showcasing skyscrapers lining the route.

photographers and were the best of British. The Red Kenny Collins Officer Commanding 7644 kept busy organising visits Arrows engaged with tens of The commendation K COLLINS ROOFING LTD Sqn, Wing Commander for VIPs, local children and millions of people through recognises the hard work 22 North End Road, Quainton, Howard Leader said, “This veterans, crewing information 21 displays, daily media and professionalism of the Nr KAylesbury. FELTCOLLINS ROOFING Bucks. ROOFING HP22 SPECIALIST 4BD LTD award was well earned and stands and getting the activity and by completing team in delivering what was FELTROOFMASTER ROOFING APPROVED SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR K COLLINS ROOFING LTD well deserved. Corporal pilots on radio and TV. 30 stunning flypasts over a hugely successful tour. KEst. COLLINS1969 ROOFING LTDK COLLINSK COLLINSROOFING ROOFING LTD LTD Sarabadu’s work rate has major landmarks or locations. Tel ROOFMASTER01296 APPROVED 655526 CONTRACTOR FELT ROOFING SPECIALIST K COLLINS ROOFING LTD been prodigious, and The 11-week tour of Canada This included performances It’s Video Jim, But Not MobileEst. 1969FELT 07831 ROOFING 465501 SPECIALIST KFELT COLLINS ROOFINGFELTROOFMASTER ROOFING SPECIALIST ROOFING APPROVED SPECIALISTLTDCONTRACTOR ROOFMASTER APPROVED CONTRACTOR ROOFMASTERFELT APPROVEDROOFINGROOFMASTEREst. 1969 CONTRACTOR SPECIALIST APPROVED CONTRACTOR We wish the readers of Mainpoint a the quality of his output and the USA was the biggest over Niagara Falls, San As We Know It… Email Est.Kenny [email protected] Collins FELTEst. 1969ROOFMASTER ROOFINGEst. APPROVED 1969 SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR has been tremendous. ever in the Red Arrows’ Francisco’s Golden Gate Squadron Leader Tony ROOFMASTEREst. 1969 APPROVED CONTRACTOR fantastic festive season and a Happy Kenny Collins Newton, Flight Lieutenant Web 22 Northwww.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk End Road, Quainton, Est. 1969 Kenny Collins New Year! Paul Gale, Flying Officer Tim 22 NorthNr Aylesbury. End Road, Bucks. Quainton, HP22 4BD Kenny Collins Kenny Collins Kenny Collins Morris, and Corporal Cathy Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD Kenny Collins22 North End Road, Quainton, Tel 01296 655526 Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD The team at TaxAntics help service personnel Tel 01296 655526 Kenny22 North Collins End Road, Quainton,22 North End Road, Quainton, Sharples have put RAF Media 22Mobile North 07831End Road, 465501 Quainton, Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD Mobile 07831 465501 22 North End Road,NrTel Aylesbury. Quainton,01296 Bucks. 655526 HP22 4BD with their expense claims, property businesses Reserves at the cutting edge NrEmail Aylesbury. [email protected] Bucks. HP22 4BD 22 NorthNr End Aylesbury. Road, Quainton, Bucks. HP22 4BD Email [email protected] Tel 01296 655526TelMobile 0129607831 655526465501 Web www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD and other assets or tax issues. We operate of video technology with WebTel www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk01296 655526 MobileTel 07831 01296465501MobileEmail 655526 [email protected] 465501 Mobile 07831 465501 TelEmail [email protected] 65552607831EmailWeb 465501 [email protected] on a fixed fee basis and not a percentage what it believes is the first use Mineral Chippings Asphalt repairs Polycarbonate Corrugated PVC • Email [email protected]• • MobileWeb Email07831www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk• [email protected] www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk of immersive virtual reality in Removal of Asbestos Repointed Chimney Stacks of any tax reclaimed on your behalf. Web • www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk• Email [email protected] www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk Roof Boarding Skylights Guttering and fascias Slate and tile repairs the RAF. Filming at RAF Brize • • • Web• www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk The 31 January is when individuals should aim to file their personal tax returns online Norton in a project for the by. TaxAntics can ensure your tax return RAF Police, the team has had is professionally prepared making the most to master new filming and editing techniques and learn beneficial use of allowances and reliefs. to use innovative camera and Avoid a winter of discontent and contact Force One Air Conditioning is a Buckinghamshire based audio technology to deliver company with over 30 years experience in providing a complete us to find out how we can help you. a true immersive experience solution for commercial & domestic air conditioning applications that can be viewed in VR using the latest technology and Experienced Qualified Engineers. Personal & Business Tax * Property Tax * Estate Planning headsets. Flight Lieutenant OUR SERVICES INCLUDE Gale says, “It’s difficult enough • 5% VAT on Domestic Installations shooting action when it’s • Competitive Pricing happening in front of you, • Energy Saving Systems www.TaxAntics.co.uk but with 360-degree video, • Qualified Experienced Engineers [email protected] there’s nowhere to hide - Tel: 01296 393932 Fax: 01296 399338 what’s happening above, [email protected] below and behind you is 17 Albert Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 1LY 01276 600 990 just as important, and that’s www.forceoneaircon.co.uk really challenging to deliver.”

16 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 17 Community and Charity

Then hits COVID-19. Race RUNNING and fundraising events were PUMPKIN POTTER AND PORCHES SPRING-ER IN MY STEP being cancelled, having a huge impact on our amilies at RAF Halton front window display, with from the RAF Halton families. motivation as we resorted celebrated Halloween witches, spiders, broomsticks It was a really difficult task Flight Sergeant Gaz Elliott to difficult 5am starts to with a virtual and ghosts decorating the to choose just one winner 2020 run around Wendover in competition this year, steps. Finally, there was the of each category, and I unning the 100km Forganised by the Community inspired winning carving would like to congratulate Still smiling on the route. Corporal Katie Bennett the rain. However, thanks Ultra-marathon to the Warrant Officers and Support Team. of a pumpkin Harry Potter, everyone for their amazing across Oxfordshire Sergeants’ Mess who gave us Hedwig the barn owl, and efforts. It was really good to seemed like a good a base to use, we managed to Competitors were ghoulishly the Hogwarts crest. be able to deliver the prizes Ridea, having completed complete a 4-mile run every creative with many entries to the children in person marathons before I wanted 4 hours for 48 hours. Those being submitted for best The Station Commander said, today and see many of the a new challenge. Seeing as I supporting and feeding us front of house display, best “It was a pleasure to review Halloween entries across was going to punish myself, kept our driven, however, pumpkin, best mask for over all the Halloween creations the estate.” I might as well try to raise Andy was the first to suffer an 8’s, and best spooky picture money for Lowland Rescue injury leaving Tom to pick up for the under 7’s. Jasmine and her sisters winning Oxfordshire, a charity very his miles. The rest of us were over 8’s best mask competition. close to my heart and of doing well though, with only The Station Commander, which I am a member. a few visits to the physio and Group Captain Startup, chose maybe an MRI scan or two. the lucky winners, and then here are some things Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire visited each to deliver their I question, like why is a team of volunteers In October, four of us well-earned prize. would anyone push who search and rescue managed to run loops of themselves to run high risk and vulnerable Wendover Woods for six Winners for best spooky T1010 miles in pairs to total missing people who have a the challenge was over before Bridge over the Thames, amid hours. Never have I seen so picture for under 7’s went 2020 like the year? And high chance of hurting or it had even begun. After 20 cheers, celebrations, and many hills, but banter and to Rose Flanagan and her how can anyone manage to injuring themselves. Those miles I was assessed and even last-minute donations determination pushed the family, while Jasmine and convince five others to do suffering from dementia strapped up, powering on from passing cars. I was boys for 15 miles and the girls her sisters won the over 8’s the same? Well…I managed or mental health issues are with a mixture of adrenalin, saddened the experience had (to prove we were hard as best mask competition. The to sell the idea to Sergeant often categorised, and often paracetamol, stubbornness ended but being exhausted nails) managed another 6. Stevens family earned best Kristian Harrison and Corporal do not want to be found or, and a torn ligament. and emotional I was glad it Luke ‘Taff’ Williams, and more worryingly, do not even was over. With the end of the year in quickly persuaded Sergeant realise they are missing. I was not prepared for the sight our bodies are aching, Sarah Perkes before appealing I am part of the Lowland rollercoaster of emotion; at Not only had I helped raise but virtual and socially to the competitive natures SOARING THROUGH BLUE Rescue Oxfordshire Dog Unit, times I felt like I could go on over £2700 for the team, I also distanced races are becoming of Flight Lieutenant Tom working with two English forever, but at other times my learned a few things. Firstly, a thing and we remain Lynne Whinnerah Beddow and Flight Lieutenant Springer Spaniels: Beau is fatigued body battled with 100 kilometres is a lot further determined. Follow our Andy Furlong. have been a Civil Servant a beautiful blue sky during Yet, thanks to my persuasive my eight-year-old, qualified my feelings of doubt. It took than it appears on a map! progress on Facebook and for the past 4 years, a very hot day. Due to instructor I managed to since 2015, and together we a huge amount of resilience Secondly, the human body is Instagram @rafhalton2020 The Saturday park run currently working as the COVID-19 regulations we reach out over the edge have over 150 operational to continue putting one foot capable of incredible things. and we would be extremely was about my standard of Admin Officer for Station each had to wear a face of the plane and glimpse searches under our belts; in front of the other, but But most significantly, the grateful if you can donate IManagement Squadron at covering, which was not the what lay ahead, the air was running before I undertook my other is 3-year-old Finn, knowing my support team support of those around you to our just giving page this challenge. However, RAF Halton – although, I most comfortable, but it kept blue and not the colour! who qualified at the start of were ready with food, water, is invaluable; knowing that https://www.justgiving.com/ we calculated the 2020 have been in and around the my instructor and I safe. December. My wife, Squadron and a welcome change of when you ask for help there fundraising/rafhalton2020. miles would mean running Military for 18 years now. Before I knew what was Leader Ali Sandeman is also a trainers and socks made a will be people willing to have approximately 19.4 miles After waiting for three hours happening, I was soaring member of the team, training huge difference. your back is nothing short Caution: Taff, Kristian, Katie, each week for the whole In August 2020 I took part I was lucky enough to get through the air experiencing to become an operational of amazing. and Sarah running. year. With work and family in a sponsored Tandem Sky on the first plane. My nerves a feeling I will never feel handler with Beau. Many of The last 8 miles were the commitments, and no time Dive, having always wanted kicked in when I reached an again; pure amazement, fear the skills we have learnt in most difficult, with a painful Thank-you to all the for injury or holidays, this to do a sky dive but never altitude of 15,000 feet, and and a sense of achievement. our RAF careers translate ankle and few ‘cheeky’ hills donations, team members, truly was a challenge; so, actually thinking I would. I began to wonder whether In the end I raised £680 for into the search and rescue to tackle. But I kept going, supporters, Halton staff and I knew the spirit of others My husband had other ideas I could go ahead with it. the RAF Benevolent Fund. world; teamwork, resilience, despite questioning, “why well-wishers who made and acting in the name of when he bought me one leadership and planning to am I doing this?”. It is not this so memorable and Charity fundraising for the for Christmas. If I was going name but a few. about the physical size of the help the Lowland Rescue RAF Benevolent Fund would to overcome my fears of challenge, but the magnitude Oxfordshire to continue motivate me on! heights, I would do it for a After months of training of what it means to you in their important work. worthy cause and one close I arrived in Bledington, a personally. I wanted to prove The First of January arrived to my heart; therefore, I small village on the North- to myself I could do it, as well much sooner than expected, decided to raise money for West border of Oxfordshire. as raise money for a charity but we started the year off the RAF Benevolent Fund. Conditions were less than helping loved ones return strong. Sarah and I completed ideal, amid total darkness, to their families and safety; two ‘ParkRun’ events on New It was a very early start flooding and thick mud after my battle to keep going Year’s Day, and the guys not to the day, when my son recent heavy rain. insignificant compared to the and husband left with me pain of missing loved one. wanting to be outdone by the girls, clocked 250 miles for Devon, to register and I managed to twist my ankle I finally crossed the finish over the first two weeks. get ready for my dive. The 5 miles in, making me think line at 1800hrs on the Henley Thumbs-up from Lynne Whinnerah. weather was to be perfect,

18 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 19 Community Community and Charity and Charity NATIONAL INCLUSION WEEK TOWER TOP THRILLS POPPY POWER orporal Aaron Penfold who assist the ambulance Eleanor Tomlin Eleanor Tomlin is no stranger to service by responding to All Images: UK MOD CROWN COPYRIGHT RESERVED abseiling, recently calls where there will be 2020 Station Photography Section ife is about finding the Padre Neil Galloway discussed hobby. Despite assumptions Sergeant Downey has faced completing his tallest a delay on the ambulance he Royal Air Force the smaller ones bearing the Cand, due to the high winds, arriving and delivering true you, regardless his view of inclusion being people may make from her some challenging times over Association Branches names of RAFA Aylesbury of colour, race, more than laws or statistics, appearance, occupation, and the past two years, but the most challenging abseil of potentially lifesaving care. donate Remembrance & Halton Branch members religion, sexuality, but rather a personal pastimes, Thomas does not inclusive culture and support the 170-meter-tall Spinnaker This is all done in team Crosses to the who have sadly passed. Lor abilities; the list goes awareness of ourselves and feel the need to clarify her of RAF Halton has greatly Tower in Portsmouth. Aaron members’ own time on top TRAFA Headquarters every This later became part of on. RAF Halton celebrated the world around us; how sexual orientation. She states helped him and his family. had previously abseiled Table of their own full-time jobs. year, in commemoration a beautiful display that lit Mountain in Cape Town, South National Inclusion Week by we treat others as we wish it has, “Been a breath of fresh Downey’s daughter, Skye Aaron experiencing high of all those who fought up the night, with a poppy Africa, which by comparison hosting several events and to be treated. True inclusion air to be accepted into the Downey, is about to start winds mid-abseil. and died to keep us safe projection amid the shadows holding discussions on race, can then be achieved with RAF Community for who I am secondary school. She is also is only 112 meters high! during the First World War. cast by the statue soldiers. intergenerational workplaces, Faith, allowing us to see without question.” transgender and benefitted gender, agile working, the ourselves connected and from a scheme offering one- Aaron is a medic at RAF Mr Kevin O'Neill, RAFA RAF Halton personnel were LGBT+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual interdependent of all things, to-one support for service Halton, where he works Engagement Officer, and Mr also able to commemorate and Transgender, and more) and accept ourselves for children at school. Facing alongside the NHS to keep Derf Mockford, the Aylesbury Remembrance Day in the and BAME (Black, Asian And who we are. Padre Galloway his own difficulties, Downey his clinical skills current & Halton RAFA Club Chairman, usual fashion, with a Poppy Minority Ethnic) networks. continues that, “Faith is about struggled with caring for two and broad for different intended to plant these Appeal at Paddington Train A photographic display at openness and acceptance, not teenagers while preparing situations he utilises as Crosses in the Garden of Station in London – although Halton House Officers’ Mess about barriers or exclusivity. for another child on the way. a Military Co-responder Remembrance at Westminster socially distanced. It was showcased RAF Halton Faith is about throwing off However, RAF Halton Station with the South Central Abbey. However, current important to support The personnel with perceived our dualistic mindset and Welfare gave further support Ambulance Service (SCAS). You can sponsor, share and affairs had other plans with Royal British Legion and raise differences and how they feel seeing ourselves and others to the family when Carillion support a vital service via the the trip having to be cancelled money like every other year, included by our community; for who we truly are.” If we Amey provided alternative Aaron said, ‘On the day itself following link: https://www. to keep everyone safe under as the charity has supported I was to meet up with Sue justgiving.com/fundraising/ here are some of their stories. accept unconditional love SAC Emma Thomas. housing that better suited Lockdown restrictions. the Armed Forces and ex- and then offer that same their situation. Berrecloth, another Member aaron-penfold-tower. Or serving personnel since 1921. Corporal Perry’s knowledge unconditionality to others, Flight Lieutenant Megan of RAF Halton's Military Co- if you are interested in All disappointment from the of the Autistic Spectrum then through Faith we Rowlands discusses the Sergeant Downey. responders, so I could see abseiling for charity, you can cancellation were quickly Flight Sergeant Kelly Loder Disorder (ASD) was extremely achieve self-awareness and importance of embracing her abseil; but due to high approach Aaron via email softened when the Crosses said: “I volunteer for the limited until his son, Luke, was understanding of humanity as the LGBT+ community, winds on the tower only one at Aaron.Penfold100@mod. were gifted to RAF Halton Poppy Appeal every year diagnosed in 2013. With his an inclusive whole. as many identify with person could abseil at a time gov.uk. He is also willing to instead, as the perfect and am really glad that the son about to start mainstream heteronormativity or gender instead of the planned two, complete smaller abseils with alternative place to show poppy collection was able to college, Perry needed a binary but may feel the pushing back our descents. individuals who have a fear them. They were planted go ahead this year despite better understanding of the need to hide this for fear of Due to the wind it was one of heights, before tackling around the Hawker Hunter the COVID-19 restrictions. disorder to fully facilitate being treated differently. This of the most testing abseils the Spinnaker Tower! gate guard in front of Station The Royal British Legion Luke’s education and future feeling of isolation and lack I have done, as we were Headquarters; with the larger do so much to support The Spinnaker Tower. development. The RAF of inclusion is not helped buffeted around whenever Crosses signifying the six our community and it was Halton Chaplaincy team by the lack of visible LGBT+ we broke contact with the Recruit Training Squadron wonderful to see so many RAF side of the tower – but it directed him towards the Padre Neil Galloway. role models around us either. Corporal Heard has a passion Intakes at RAF Halton and Halton personnel volunteering Hosanna House and Children’s Rowlands realised, “Being for art, beekeeping, and was worth it for the amazing to ensure the charity raises as Pilgrimage Trust (HCPT), who Aircraftman Wilson discusses different is a great thing, gardening; a surprising skillset views across Portsmouth…’ much money as possible to help personnel to volunteer how an older age is and that I could contribute not common among the enable the charity to continue taking Service children advantageous, as it unlocks valuable alternative opinions RAF Regiment. Sometimes The SCAS Charity helps supporting those in need”. with additional needs on a sense of having more and experiences because individuals with similarly fund both Community First annual breaks to Lourdes. experience and therefore of it.” She is also proud impressive and varied skills Responders (CFRs) and Military Perry warmly says his family, allows individuals to offer to be a visible role model are unwilling to share their Co-Responders based out “Are extremely grateful to help to those who are for the next generation of pastimes with colleagues, of RAF Halton. These teams the RAF, to HCPT, and to younger. He explains how Servicepeople, who will feel for fear it may damage their consist of unpaid volunteers all the hardworking he feels, “Proud to be here able to identify however they reputation. However, Heard departments here at RAF and wear the uniform,” amid choose to. Rowlands goes feels included in the close View from the Spinnaker Tower. Halton for their ongoing a friendly, open and honest on to say, “They are joining a RAF Regiment family saying support, time and knowledge.” team that welcomed him into community that values them he arrived, “When everyone the RAF and pulling together. for who they are and the enjoyed a social on station diversity they bring, not in and reputation stays with you. Senior Aircraftman Emma spite of it.” A good reputation takes a Thomas feels comfortable in long time to build up but is so her own skin and finds the Flight Lieutenant easily lost.” Meg Rowlands. tattoos she has decorated her body with have become an excellent conversation starter. She is also trained in martial arts and decided to Corporal Perry. join the military to further her

20 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 21 Community We loved the model of the and, one week, a resident and Charity solar system which Harry dinosaur even came out to Doherty worked so hard on. join us. This bought a smile to RED OR BROWN SAUCE? We are not sure if it was a everyone’s face. OUR COMMUNITY’S LOCKDOWN SPIRIT homework project or if it was he Trinity will now hold regular just done for fun but, well There was also a lot of fitness Community Centre bacon butty events, with RAF Halton Community Support and HIVE Team done Harry, we hope that it is training going on, whether (TCC) welcomed the Station Commander, on display in your bedroom. it be riding bikes, going for the whole force Gp Capt Dan Startup, walks or perhaps completing Tto a socially distanced even completing a food his has been a very As a thank you to the As the Community were tricky time for us all RAF Benevolent Fund we unable to mix, we asked the 0-5k. One dad took this bacon butty morning handling course to ensure and being stuck at decided to hold a 'Bake Off' them to keep us up to date one step further and got in October. The event he can participate next home for weeks on Competition with a red, white with what they were up to by the children doing the RAF was a huge success, time! So, please come along Tend could have been a lot and blue theme. Obviously, sharing photos via the RAF bleep test. We are not sure encouraging communication to the next event which harder had it not have been we were very disappointed Halton Community Support whose benefit that was for, and familiarity with will be circulated through for our amazing community not to be able to taste some Facebook Page. This proved or if he is a Physical Training key personnel at RAF Station Announcements. spirit. During Lockdown the of your amazing creations, but extremely popular and we Instructor, but we are sure Halton and providing an Community Support and HIVE they all looked very yummy have included a few of our that there was an awful lot of opportunity to meet with Now, for a controversial Team worked hard, despite and we hope you enjoyed 'Lockdown' favourites: fun and laughter. friends during a difficult topic; brown or red sauce on being stuck at home, to keep them; congratulations to time. Representatives your butty? our lines of communication Siobhan Smith and Poppy The Allanson family led the from RAF Police were also open via the telephone and Hinkley who were our way with the front window in attendance to answer social media. We organised winners. We enjoyed social display, which they changed any concerns or questions distance delivery of your almost every week and we Solar System by Harry Doherty. regarding RAF Halton and virtual competitions, guess Easter Window Competition the wider community. the picture game as well Winner Thomas Whinnerah. prizes and it was one of our looked forward to receiving as sharing activities, ideas highlights of lockdown. their updated photos. Chrissie Many have turned their and links to help support We also were extremely lucky Allanson said she had a blast hands to gardening and are The Centre has previously home-schooling. to be given a grant from the doing this. appreciating nature a lot been forced to close due RAF Benevolent Fund which more. Some have made nature to changing Lockdown enabled us to purchase craft areas in the gardens which is The Dinosaur who guidelines; however, the jars which were delivered to wonderful to see, especially as came to dance. TCC has now established an over 100 families, both local we are losing so many of our appointment basis allowing and dispersed whilst social animals in the wild. One of our families has a 3D the team to operate safely distancing of course. These Poppy Hinkley receiving her prize printer and they decided and ensure everyone can proved very popular with by abseiling teddy. to help the NHS and other receive the support and The Station Commander with both the parents and children keyworkers by making face guidance they need. The his butty, taken by the Station and we enjoyed receiving We tried something very shields. Awesome job from Community Support Team Photography Section. the Wigglesworth family. Some of the Team not having to photos of your creations. different and commissioned Various Window Displays on Preparing the food, taken by the get dressed up for the office during Dan Holdsworth, a very Tedder Road. Station Photography Section. their many virtual meetings. talented up and coming voice actor, who recorded some bedtime stories and poems for people to listen to. This was a massive hit, not Creating a Nature area. only for the children but also the adults. We were so pleased to see that some of our younger We have had some new community have learnt to members added to our ride their bikes and their older The Wigglesworth Family making community with “our COVID brothers and sisters have been face shields for key workers. Puppies”. They are adorable using their skills to show them and, no doubt, they have kept "how it's done.” We want to pass on a huge Our community children getting With our usual Easter Party their owners very busy and on THANK YOU to all our front- creative. cancelled we decided to their toes. line NHS staff and key workers who are part of our have a virtual Easter Window A socially distanced morning, taken by community. We are sure that Competition where our Dan recording one of his many the Station Photography Section. you have found it hard and families had to decorate bedtime stories. their house and email in had some tremendously their photos. This was a It was difficult to celebrate tough days. huge success, and with so the 75th Anniversary of VE many entries it was very Day as we could not hold any The Community Support Team difficult to judge. After organised events. However, Learning to ride bikes. and HIVE are incredibly proud careful consideration and many families decorated the of how the community pulled much debate, the Station front of their houses and had Our streets took part in the together during what has Commander chose Thomas their own parties in their back 'Clap for Keyworkers' and been an extremely difficult Whinnerah, who had gardens, and we are proud some took it a bit further time, and we look forward The Halls welcomed a decorated his front door all on that our community made with dancing once a week to continuing with this over new member to their as part of an exercise regime the coming months in these his own, as the winner. Well the best effort possible to family. done Thomas. recognise this day. (social distancing of course!) strange times.

22 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 23 Sport RAF Offshore Sailing's Winter Red Arrow and crew run out Training Day on the breezy solent. of Cowes in the Solent for the NO ORDINARY TEAM J-Cup 2020. HORSES FOR COURSES Miss Olivia Lade wo riders from POWERING UP! 020 has certainly The RAF Cricket Senior XI RAF Halton, FS been a challenge in were even lucky enough Keeley Martin, Corporal Lucy Spy so many ways and to play in one of the oldest Requirements TAnalysis Wing at the of course RAF Sport and finest grounds English ounded in the discipline, well-being and 2has taken a hit. However, cricket can offer, The Central Training School, Summer of 2018 by robustness both mentally there has been some Artillery Ground, Finsbury and Flt Lt Tamsin Jessup, Commanding Officer, and physically. Many military sport after the Directorate Barracks. This was closely OC Accounts Flight, were Flight Lieutenant Jim personnel already weightlift for RAF Sport, and RAF followed by the Cycling lucky enough to participate FRoden, the RAF Weightlifting casually and can now either Sport associations and Association’s getting back in the RAF Equitation Association has expanded compete for their service representative teams were on the track, managing Association Regional South exponentially, with help from or receive specialised able to gradually return to to participate in various Training weekend. The Sergeant Leighton James as professional instruction by play. It has taken a huge events, such as the brand- two-day event at Manor Head Coach and an array of our British Weightlifting Level effort and collaboration new Inter-Service Road Farm in Buckinghamshire highly motivated athletes and 2 Coaches. to plan and implement Racing e-Championships. was organised by Wg Cdr committee members. new measures to ensure The Association is currently Laurie Tostevin, Sqn Ldr Horses and riders on the We also have a network of all sporting events are safe planning its first ever Virtual Haley Norris, and Flt Lt Nat course, taken by the Station Among the rising stars of RAF Training Groups organised in the ‘new normal.’ But Training Camp, allowing Morrell, who managed to Photography Section. Weightlifting is Corporal Lucy by RAF Weightlifting Training the various association people to come back to (and overcome the challenges Spy. During 2019, she was Leaders, offering social and committees have all shown others hopefully get into) COVID-19 restrictions have and riders’ straightness, presented for equitation balance and focus. FS Martin winner of the inaugural RAF supportive group sessions for true dedication, allowing RAF Cycling. RAF Mountaineering Climbing the famous Gargoyle Flake training recently. brought her horse Zephyr Championships and competed like-minded athletes to share many of their members to Association - Gargoyle at Bamford Edge, Peak District. 25 along to the training event, as part of the RAF Team in their beloved sport together. return to participate in some After a disrupted sporting Flake, Bamford Edge. Oct 20. the Services Competition, very successful events and season, it has been great The two sessions covered saying, “We both found achieving second place. Lucy Please contact our admin salvage some of what was to see our people return to plenty of discipline and the exercises challenging turned her focus to qualifying powerhouse, Chief Technician left of their seasons! training and competition as gymnastic jumping and they really helped to for the British Weightlifting Ian Campbell, RAF Association teams and individuals. Sport exercises, as well as lessons highlight what elements we English Championships 2020, Sec, (Ian.Campbell827@ Although we are well below is a fundamental feature of in flatwork, pole-work and need to work on over the in Hampshire, earning a mod.gov.uk ) if you want our normal activity levels, RAF life and ethos, while course-walking to develop winter ready for the 2021 competition season.” national ranking. She excelled to be involved, whether RAF Angling, Tennis, Sailing, also contributing greatly RAF Cycling, Shropshire 25 Mile RAF Cycling, Inter-Service the skills of both horse with two personal best novice, expert or just tired of Football, Orienteering, to personal development, Time Trial Championships. Time Trial e-Championships. Flight Lieutenant Tamsin Jessup and lifts and a personal best of training alone! Equitation, Fencing, Polo, wellbeing, teamwork and her horse going for a jump, taken by the 147-kilogram total. pride. Directorate for RAF Mountaineering, Canoeing, Station Photography Section. Power-kiting and the Water- Sport and RAF Sports Lucy works as an Investigator ski & Wakeboard Association Federation and Central with Special Investigation have all seen somewhat of a Fund work together with Branch at RAF Halton and return. Brilliantly, all of them the Sports Associations to trains five days a week for and more have managed build on the lateral thinking, her goals. Lucy said, “I am their events with specific initiative and immense RAF Tennis (PMRAFNS, Nurses), Tennis thrilled that I’ve qualified for COVID-19 measures in place efforts to move forward Champs, TAF Halton Lawn Tennis Club. the English Champs and a and demonstrated that safe against the backdrop of big thank-you to the support sport is possible within the challenge presented by RAF Cricket Association 2020 v Honourable from RAF Weightlifting and my current climate, adding real COVID-19 – they are No Artillery Company Cricket Club. coach Sergeant ‘Besty’ Best.” value for our people. Ordinary Team! Weightlifting is an excellent vehicle to re-enforce self- Cricket was one of the first to return, back to their pitches after an influx of several fixtures.

Inter Service Carp Champs 2020 – RAF team with trophy - 1st place. WO Cooke's catch, RAF Carp Angling Inter-Services 2020.

RAF FA Plate Final, RAF Digby vs RAF Cosford at Horses and riders on the course, taken Oxford City FC. Final score 5-1 to RAF Cosford. by the Station Photography Section.

24 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 25 Introductory MEET THE NEW... CHIEF OF STAFF, ABOUT YOU TALENT/SKILL WHICH Robin Williams, Walt Disney, OC RECRUIT TRAINING FAVOURITE QUOTE: WARRANT EARLIEST MEMORY… TRAINING WING, IF YOU WEREN’T IN THE PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW Prince Harry, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, “Smile and the whole world Being rushed to hospital SQUADRON, OFFICER RTS, SQUADRON LEADER MILITARY, YOU’D BE: ABOUT YOU? I can juggle. Keira Knightley, Tina Turner, and will smile with you.” following a karate incident with A Physical Education teacher, I I never used to get handovers. Barack Obama. SQUADRON LEADER WARRANT OFFICER MELISSA STEED. my older (and stronger) sister. was one before I joined, and I KATY STEED. PULLAR. QUICK FIRE FAVOURITES would still be there if I had not EARLIEST MEMORY… QUICK FIRE FAVOURITES FILM: Love Actually WHO WOULD YOU wanted the adventure of the RAF. Learning to tie my shoelaces. FILM: Any modern Bond movies BOOK/AUTHOR... Matthew INVITE TO YOUR IDEAL AUTHOR: Lee Child Syed: Rebel Ideals DINNER PARTY? (REAL BEST PIECE OF ADVICE FAVOURITE QUOTE: Baz MUSICAL ARTIST/BAND: Pink MUSICAL ARTIST/BAND: OR FICTIONAL PEOPLE) YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? Luhrmann - Everybody's Free SONG: Glitter in the Air – Elton John, Pink, Kodaline, Stranger Things cast. It is important to have balance in To Wear Sunscreen: “Enjoy your it was the first song at our Snow Patrol, Michael Jackson life and this applies to everything. body and use it in every way you wedding SONG: Elton John: Goodbye DO YOU HAVE A ONESIE? can…don’t be afraid of it or what FOOD/MEAL Tapas Yellow Brick Road WHAT IS IT? DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 3 others think of it, it’s the greatest FAVOURITE CAKE... FOOD/MEAL: Chinese Food Yes, a Santa Claus suit. WORDS… instrument you’ll ever own.” Coffee Walnut Cake FAVOURITE CAKE... Social, active, and caring. MOST HATED CAKE... Love a Victoria Sponge QUICK FIRE FAVOURITES WHO WOULD YOU INVITE Battenberg FILM: Saving Private Ryan ROLE SUMMARY ASK YOUR PARTNER TO YOUR IDEAL DINNER FAN OF MOST HATED CAKE... MUSICAL ARTIST/ Deputising for OC Training Wing TO DESCRIBE YOU IN 3 PARTY? (REAL OR FICTIONAL CHRISTMAS Hate anything with BAND: Biffy Clyro ROLE SUMMARY Officer ROLE SUMMARY To lead, and supporting RAF Halton WORDS… PEOPLE) My wife, Pink, Judy OR BAH- alcohol or coffee in it SONG: Other side – Red Commanding of all Other manage, promote and Training Activities, including I love you...(only joking): sociable, Dench, Graham Norton, Dawn HUMBUG? CAR: Mini Cooper Hot Chilli Peppers Ranks’ Phase 1 Training maintain standards, discipline, Force Development. caring, and sporty. French, Jennifer Saunders, Fan TV SHOW/BOXSET: Friends, FOOD/MEAL: into the Royal Air Force. attitudes and behaviours Grey’s Anatomy, House, Lie to Me Ploughman’s Lunch through Phase 1 Training. FAN OF CHRISTMAS OR FAVOURITE CAKE... ABOUT YOU BAH-HUMBUG? Christmas Carrot Cake IF YOU WEREN’T IN ABOUT YOU starts early in my house!! Love it MOST HATED CAKE... THE MILITARY, YOU’D IF YOU WEREN’T IN THE Eccles Cake BE: Police Officer. MILITARY, YOU’D BE: Aspiring CAR: Bugatti Veyron to be a professional Golfer. TV SHOW/BOXSET: Misc BEST PIECE OF ADVICE Line of Duty YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? DESCRIBE YOURSELF SPORT: Scotland Rugby Team Be nice to the people on your IN 3 WORDS: Passionate, SUBJECT AT SCHOOL: way up, as you may need trustworthy, committed. Physical Education them on your way down. FAN OF CHRISTMAS OR ASK YOUR PARTNER TO BAH-HUMBUG? Huge Fan! DESCRIBE YOURSELF DESCRIBE YOU IN 3 WORDS: IN 3 WORDS: Grumpy, caring, lovely. Loyal, caring, professional. TALENT/SKILL/AMAZING ASK YOUR PARTNER TO FACT ABOUT YOU WHICH DESCRIBE YOU IN 3 WORDS PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW? Caring, thoughtful, intelligent. Guilty pleasure = Top Strictly fan. The Station Commander, Group Captain Startup, checking his car is safe for the winter.

C2/HEO ANDREW ROLE SUMMARY ASK YOUR PARTNER TO PARTY? (REAL OR FICTIONAL (ANDY) TIPPING, Running Health & Safety and DESCRIBE YOU IN 3 WORDS: PEOPLE) Peter Kay, Michael Palin, SAFETY HEALTH Environmental Management Caring, honest, diplomatic. Rick Stein, and Murray Walker. ENVIRONMENT Systems and providing the Station ADVISOR (SSHEA). Commander with assurance we TALENT/SKILL WHICH QUICK FIRE FAVOURITES are compliant with legislation. PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW FILM Star Trek ABOUT YOU? I have visited 23% BOOK/AUTHOR... ABOUT YOU of the countries in the world. Any book – I love reading, but not IF YOU WEREN’T IN THE the slushy ones MILITARY, YOU’D BE: HOBBIES AND PASTIMES MUSICAL ARTIST/BAND MT staff conducting winter safety car checks for Teacher. Track Marshal at Silverstone, Phil Collins, Genesis Whole Force personnel. volunteering fundraiser for Rennie SONG The Four Seasons, Vivaldi. BEST PIECE OF ADVICE Grove charity and keeping my MG FOOD/MEAL YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? car on the road. Greek Cypriot, pork chop with Never ask someone to do halloumi and brandy sours something you would not FAVOURITE QUOTE: CAR: My MG TF 160 do yourself. Theodore Roosevelt: “Believe you TV SHOW/BOXSET MASH can and you’re halfway there.” FAN OF CHRISTMAS DESCRIBE YOURSELF OR BAH-HUMBUG? FOR ADVERTISING IN 3 WORDS: Helpful, fair, WHO WOULD YOU INVITE Fan of Christmas (Mrs T approachable. TO YOUR IDEAL DINNER said so)

26 Mainpoint Winter 2020 Mainpoint Winter 2020 27 FREE ½ hour Consultations After my first career in the Army, I have been a solicitor in Home Counties law firms for over 20 years. I have now set up my own specialist Wills and Estate Planning Consultancy, based from Wendover, where I provide both personalised and specialist legal advice to both military (serving and retired) and non-military clients, on:

• Wills • Later Life Advice • Estate Planning • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Succession Planning • Estate Administration and other related areas I am offering Free Wills and Estate Planning Clinics. Subject to Covid19 restrictions, these will be held at the TCC one day every other week for a free ½ hour consultation of wills, powers of attorney and related matters. The Clinics are currently available via videocall at any time.

Covid19 Update All meetings are face to face, but, due to Covid19, most are currently via videocall rather than in person. The plan is to offer meetings both by videocall and in person shortly, again subject to Covid restrictions. Videocall meetings offer: • The same level of advice and service as normal, but with more flexibility, whenever suits you. • Peace of mind – you still receive specialist, personal and bespoke advice, but without any social distancing concerns.

I am pleased to hold a registered Armed Forces Covenant and offer a 10% discount for any legal advice I provide to all military personnel and their families, whether serving or retired, and to all staff working at RAF Halton.

If you would like to discuss matters with me at any time, or have any questions, please contact me on [email protected] or 01296 415700 or visit my website www.wanstallconsulting.co.uk

Following my first career in the army (The Gordon Highlanders, now 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland), I spent over 20 years as a specialist private client solicitor in law firms across the Home Counties. Having lived in Wendover with my family since the late ‘90’s, I have recently realised a long-time goal of setting up my own Wills & Estate Planning Consultancy, based here and covering the surrounding areas. I offer clients friendly and bespoke specialist legal advice, including Wills, estate, later life and succession planning and powers of attorney. My aim is to make the whole legal process of planning for the future as straight forward and convenient as possible. I normally see clients at their own homes or workplace, at a time that suits them. However, with the Covid19 restrictions I am currently seeing clients face to face, but mainly via videocall rather than in person. I look forward to offering both in person and videocall meetings again soon. I am also offering free Wills and Estate Planning Clinics. These will be either held at the TCC or via videocall, again subject to any Covid19 restrictions.

Wills I strongly recommend that serving and retired military personnel consider having a professionally drawn up Will prepared and carry out planning for their, and their family`s, future. Due to my background, I understand many of the issues that you, and your family, may well be going through with the various factors and demands of military life. If you need to prepare your Will quickly, such as due to operational or exercise requirements, this will be arranged. Lasting Powers of Attorney I also strongly recommend Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs). There are two types of LPAs which enable you to authorise chosen people (attorneys) to look after your financial and / or your health and welfare affairs should you either wish them to (such as if you are away on operations or training), or should they need to do so

If you would like to meet (in person or via videocall) to discuss any of the above or related matters, or have any questions, please contact me for a free initial ½ hour consultation at any time. I am pleased to hold a registered Armed Forces Covenant and offer a 10% discount for any legal advice I provide to all military personnel and their families, whether serving or retired, and to all staff working at RAF Halton.

My contact details are: 01296 415700 [email protected] www.wanstallconsulting.co.uk