the

The Voice of the Innsworth imjinStation Community Spring 2018 Covering HQ ARRC, HQ 1 (UK) Sig Bde, DBS, Ashchurch, ARRC Sp Bn, 252 Sig Sqn COMARRC’s Introduction Welcome to the spring edition of the Imjin Magazine. As ever with life at the ARRC, the start of 2018 saw us bid a fond farewell to a number of families but I am delighted to welcome their replacements. To the new arrivals, thank you for volunteering to serve at HQ ARRC. I’m confident you will enjoy your time here, not least due to the broad array of activities and events on offer in . It’s a cause for pride amongst the HQ that these are so often organised, assisted and enabled by members of the Imjin Community, as you will see in the pages that follow. The winter season saw the ARRC continue on its journey of recalibration and learning – something which I know means a lot of hard work from all of you. As always I extend my sincere thanks to you and your families; it’s due to your commitment and professionalism, as well as the huge support of your families, that the ARRC is so well regarded across NATO. It’s also down to you all that our environment is a happy one in which to work. I hope you enjoy this edition of The Imjin. The production team have done a fine job once again in making it informative and useful, full of ideas to exploit this interesting part of the world.

Lt Gen Tim Radford CB DSO OBE Commander, Headquarters Allied Rapid Reaction Corps

CONNECT WITH HQ ARRC Words from ON SOCIAL MEDIA the Editor

Find HQ ARRC on Facebook for the latest news updates. As the weather is improving and the days are Browse HQ ARRC’s online photo albums using getting longer, the opportunities for experiencing Flickr’s HQ ARRC’s photostream. everything the local area has to offer are ever more Follow HQ ARRC on Twitter and stay informed on current present. events using tweets, video links The team and contributors to this edition of the Imjin and other information. Magazine have once again provided superb reviews Find more in depth information about the and information on a wide range of events and activities ARRC on our website. to help you get the best possible enjoyment from the For staff and families of the ARRC there is a private area. I am hugely grateful to our contributors for their Facebook group. Search for ARRC Community and ask to join the group. submissions, and it’s because of their efforts that this edition of the community magazine provides a wealth of information on local activities, sports clubs, local attractions, up-coming local and community events and welfare information to help you find the right person to speak to, should you need to. The ‘What’s On’ section on pages 18-19 will provide you with local events taking www.flickr.com place all the way into July. The Welfare centre have www.facebook.com/al- www.arrc.nato.int provided information about Easter events at the local liedrapidreactioncorps Search for HQ ARRC’s Photostream attractions to which they offer discounted tickets on page 17, and on page 15 you can find details of local clubs for your children to get involved with.

Should you need to refer to any of the information within the magazine whilst you’re out and about, it’s available at www.arrc.nato.int and is mobile friendly. www.twitter.com/#!/HQ www.youtube.com/ www.facebook.com/ ARRC user/HQARRC groups/arrccommunity Enjoy the magazine,

Maj Ben Ford Email: [email protected] Editor Telephone: +44 (0)1452 718500

2 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Contents 4-5

Around Imjin 4-5

Family View Point 6

Local Charity Work 7

The ARRC International Club 8

Pass the Pen 8 9

Postcard from Wimberley 9

Hamper Scamper 10

Local Activity 10

Lost in Translation 10

Cultural Club 11

AIC Walks 11 14

Military Wives Choir 12

Coffee Mornings 13

Welfare Activities 14

Local Club Notice Board 15

Discount Tickets 16-17

What’s On 18-19

1 Signal Brigade 20 16

Support Battalion 21

Defence Business Services 23

Station Padre 24

News from Station Headquarters 25

Welfare Office Update 26-30

Recipes 32-34

Useful Telephone Numbers 35 20

Editor’s Notes The publication of an advert, article or photo in the Imjin does not necessarily reflect the views of the ARRC, Partner nations or UK (MoD). The editor reserves the right to omit, amend or edit any advert, article or photo at the discretion of the HQ without liability. Should you wish to include an article or photo in future editions, please contact the Public Affairs Office on 01452 718007 or email [email protected]. Cover image: HRH The Prince of Wales visiting Imjin Barracks in February 2018. Taken by WO2 Tom Robinson RLC. The next edition of the Imjin will be issued in July 2018. The Imjin is designed and printed by Manor Printing Services www.manorprinting.co.uk 33

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 3 Around Imjin

Officers and senior ranks of Imjin Barracks serve the soldiers a Christmas Lunch ahead of Christmas leave as a show of appreciation for their hard work throughout the year.

ARRC Health Fair. Service personnel and invited guests held stands with a view to promoting health, fitness and general well-being.

Officers from Imjin Barracks enjoying the festive tradition of singing Officers and soldiers competed in the first event of the 2018 Imjin Cup; carols to members of the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess. a gruelling 5km Gun Run event.

Service personnel and members of the Imjin Community gathered together at Cathedral for the annual Christmas Carol Local WW2 veteran Les Middlecote was presented with the Order National de la Legion Service. d’Honneur by French Army Officers from HQ ARRC, for his participation in the D-Day landings.

4 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 HQ ARRC hosted the NATO Command Senior Enlisted Leader conference. It brought together senior enlisted leaders from across the NATO force structure. Its aim was to strengthen the leadership network and development efforts across NATO.

In February, HQ ARRC was honoured by a Royal visit from HRH The Prince of Wales. He was welcomed upon his arrival by a Flag Ceremony and Honour Guard outside the HQ.

The Non-Commissioned Officers of HQ ARRC held their second NCO leadership seminar at the Imjin Briefing Centre. The seminar focused on personal and professional development and education. As part of his visit to HQ ARRC, HRH The Prince of Wales discusses the ARRC’s experiences as lead Land Headquarters for the NATO Response Force in 2017 and the security challenges facing the UK and NATO.

Major General Chris Tickell, Director Capability at Army Headquarters, HRH The Prince of Wales met military and civilian staff and their visited the headquarters, receiving a briefing from the Command families at an informal reception during his visit to HQ ARRC today. Group about the HQ and our capabilities as a NATO High Readiness Chatting for well over an hour, the Prince clearly enjoyed his visit, and Force (Land). those he met were equally enthusiastic.

Exercise ARRCADE LIONHEART welcomed senior officers from across the UK Armed Forces and NATO to discuss defence-related matters. As part of his visit, HRH The Prince of Wales met local school children. This year’s conference focused on ‘21st Century Warfighting at Scale in They joined military and civilian personnel and their families, who were the Land Environment’. keen to show their appreciation and offer their best wishes.

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 5 Family View Point This issue we asked members of the ARRC International Club (AIC) what local sports and activities you and your family are looking forward to as the days get longer and the weather starts to improve?

Camilla Lina We have a puppy so we’re We would like to visit some looking forward to doing new places in the UK, we some hiking. We like to do like to do lots of walking longer walks, above 10km, but we are also looking so we can’t wait to visit forward to exploring some the and the new towns and cities. Malvern hills.

Michelle Juta We really enjoy getting on We love to go hiking too; the trails and discovering especially around the new places, we love the Cotswolds and Wales. light horses you can find That’s what we love to do. in the New Forest.

Monica Aiva

We are looking forward to We don’t have any plans travelling around the UK. yet, but when the days We have a motorhome get longer we will be and have already visited planning a trip. We want Scotland and Wales. When to see everything we can it gets warmer we plan on while we are here, and we visiting Ireland. love exploring in the UK.

6 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 HQ ARRC Supports Gloucester Rugby Gloucester Food Bank Remembrance Day There is no better charity at the Gloucester Food Bank Christmas time to support by the ARRC Charitable than the local food bank Committee Representatives given the terrible thought where they were distributed (and reality) of people in our across the local area over the community going hungry holiday period. Ms. Anneliese during the holiday season. Sterry, the manageress of the Gloucester Food Bank, Great news from As in the past, all ARRC Saturday 11th November provided the following Headquarters Allied members were invited to 17, was the Anglo-Welsh Rapid Reaction Corps provide non-perishable Cup between Gloucester and London Irish. As (HQ ARRC)! Following last food, toiletry items, and the match took place on year’s achievements, the cash donations to improve Remembrance Day, it was ARRC has now formally the holiday season for designated as Gloucester stood-up a Charitable those far less fortunate Rugby’s ‘Forces Day’ in Committee designed than themselves. The 2017 support of the Royal British to cohere all charitable Christmas campaign was Legion. There were various feedback following the ARRC activities. The numerous launched in the run-up to initiatives on the day contribution: “Thank-you for independent charitable the holiday season and including reduced ticket your continued support and efforts across our HQ over ran over the period 4-15 prices for members of the your donations at Christmas the last few years has December 2017. Collection forces as well as a choral 2017. This generosity is shown the importance of performance from the appreciated by the foodbank standardising our strategy Innsworth Military Wives, team and those we are able in terms of focussing and music from the Nailsworth to help”. Silver Band and the synchronising efforts for traditional minute’s silence all charitable initiatives. I look forward to working with ahead of kick off. Although in its infancy, everyone on future charitable In the run up to the day, the charitable committee’s initiatives to highlight Gloucester Rugby club sold stand-up will go a long the importance of giving the specially designed ‘Poppy way to strengthen the boxes were placed in the back to our communities. Shirts’ and during the match, focus towards charitable Officers’ Mess foyer, the Coming together to support soldiers from Imjin Barracks work on in support of the ARRC Headquarters’ foyer charitable causes is such were in attendance to collect broader Imjin Barracks as well as the WOs’ and Sgts’ an enriching activity, so well donations from the crowds for community. Mess. The primary goal this done to all and thank you to the Royal British Legion. year was to surpass the very everyone for their immense On Saturday 18th February generous donations from the generosity! On behalf of our 18, representatives from the 2016 campaign when 120kg Headquarters, and acting ARRC and Imjin Barracks, of non-perishable items and in my role as interim Chair along with Gloucester £620 in cash donations was of the ARRC’s Charitable Rugby Club, presented the collected. Committee, I was very Royal British Legion with a honoured to represent our cheque for £7263.18. Nicole So how did we do? I am Mayall, Royal British Legion’s HQ and present our collective So, what did the charitable extremely proud to Community Fundraiser committee do so far? announce that over Gloucestershire, said; “I’m Despite the extremely high 143.0kg of non-perishable delighted that the collection operational tempo during food and toiletry items, smashed our previous record; the Autumn of 2017 - with all as well as £800 in cash all because of the help of the fantastic volunteers ARRC members supporting donations were collected. and the generosity of the numerous large scale The generosity of cash Gloucester Rugby and London back-to-back exercises (and donations is always critical donations to the Food Bank. Irish supporters. This is an planning conferences) - the as it allows the Food Bank We have now set an upward amazing increase on last ARRC continued with its to target items in very low trend and I look forward to year’s collection, thank you annual tradition of running supply and is always one of so much again. The Royal continuing and increasing a charitable campaign in the easiest, and yet most British Legion has been able our annual support. support of the Gloucester important, ways for everyone to answer more than 1,077,019 Food Bank; a charitable to contribute in helping Major Gary Stone – requests for help from the organisation serving their local communities. All Canadian Exchange Armed Forces community.” the broader community food bank donations were Officer, Proudly Serving at Comd SM Allan Ridler surrounding HQ ARRC. collected and presented to HQ ARRC

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 7 ARRC International Club

The AIC is an all-inclusive club set up for the partners Over the next few pages you will see of everybody posted to, or attached to the ARRC at some of the AIC activities and events Imjin Barracks (HQ ARRC, HQ 1 Signal Brigade and that have recently taken place, with dates to save for ARRC Support Battalion). the future, and all the dates for the upcoming Coffee Mornings. Towards the back of the magazine you will The AIC arranges events to bring together all nationalities find all the dates for the upcoming International Lunches involved at the ARRC. These include monthly lunches and along with all the recipes from previous events, which you coffee mornings, which are hosted by different nations can cut-out and keep and try for yourself. and give a real taste of each other’s customs, traditions and culinary specialities. They are a wonderful opportunity If you would like to get regular updates about future to meet new people and learn more about the different AIC events then please email the AIC Secretary at – cultures represented in the Imjin Community. The AIC also [email protected] – and also join our Facebook organises trips to craft fairs, places and events, such as group by searching for The AIC (ARRC International Club). Hampton Court Palace and Ascot Races, as well as various We look forward to seeing you soon. other activities throughout the year ranging from tennis coaching to Family Bingo.

trails in the area but if you only take Pass the Pen one walk in the Cotswolds make it one of the five stunning walks in An Enchanting Tour of the Painswick (Painswick Beacon, Slad Valley, Edge, Whiteshill, Holcombe). Cotswolds I recommend that you stop at We are so fortunate to live in what I see as the The Royal Oak for a well-earned most enchanting part of . Nestled between refreshment after your walk and Gloucester and , Imjin is located in the heart warm up by their oversized fire place. of the Cotswolds. We are only minutes away from some Day Three. we spent in Cheltenham shopping and of the most unspoiled, historic and famous towns and stopping for tea at the Well Walk Tea Room, very quaint! villages in England. Each village has its own flavor whilst Day Four. we packed our Wellies and an overnight bag sharing a similar aesthetic, all thanks to the gorgeous and started our next adventure with eggs benedict Cotswold stone they are cut from. at The Colesbourne Inn right outside of Rendcomb A few weeks ago one of my dearest friends came to College. A lovely atmosphere, roaring fire place and visit me for a week. We have both lived in Europe for delicious breakfast. Then to Blenhiem Palace for a tour many years and have toured the larger more touristy of Sir Winston Churchill’s birthplace and 2nd breakfast cities many times. This time our goal was to explore in Burford followed by a bit of antique shopping. We had quintessentially English villages of honey-coloured a late lunch at The Porch House in Stow on the Wold stone, take in splendid, lively market towns, visit some and booked a suite at the Stow Lodge Hotel next to the of the country’s greatest palaces, castles and country church grounds. All I can say is WOW! houses and walk through breath-taking landscapes We were up early for a brisk walk (wellies along historic trails. Of course no visit is complete until Day Five. needed of course) and a bit of morning shopping before you sample the local pubs for a pint of beer and taste heading to Bourton on the Water, only a fifteen minute the local cuisine of fish and chips, steak and ale pies, drive, and then on to Tetbury for lunch at the Blue sausage rolls and the list goes on. Zucchini, a warm and eclectic little restaurant with great From our home in Gloucester Ten villages in five days! Bloody Mary and awesome tuna melts. If you are an we drove 35 minutes to the town of Bibury. We had antique lover like myself, you hit the jackpot in Tetbury. lunch at the Swan Hotel, visited the trout farm and took Over twenty-five antique shops to peruse at everyone’s photos of their famous cottages, which are some of the price point. Tetbury is also home to the Highgrove Estate most photographed in all of England. We continued on (home of Prince Charles and Camilla) and Chavenage the B4425 and 15 minutes later we were having tea and House where the TV series Poldark was filmed. carrot cake in , followed by another stroll to The Cotswolds covers a huge area, almost 800 square admire the local shops and architecture. miles. From fabulous gardens to amazing shops, we We drove 25 minutes to Painswick, “Queen Day Two. could go on and on. I am already excited for my next of the Cotswold”. There are many wonderful hiking visitor, as there is still so much more to see and explore. Next on the list Stanton, Dursley, Stroud, Moreton in Marsh, Broadway, Winchcombe, Stratford upon Avon … I feel so fortunate to be living among such beautiful and historic places. These memories will stay with me for the rest of my life! Aly Rohling

8 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Postcard from... Wimberley, Texas, USA

I’m not lying when I say Wimberley, Texas is a little bit of heaven! My beloved town is tucked smartly between Austin and San Antonio in the vast Texas Hill Country. It has a growing population of just under 3000 and is a popular retreat for artists, musicians, writers and anyone yearning to escape city life. Why is Wimberley so great? It offers something for everyone … theater, nature, shopping and even a rodeo.

The Emily Ann Theater and Gardens is my favorite place in Wimberley. It is 12 acres of beautiful gardens, nature trails, interactive activities including a life size chess board, a musical garden, and nature and theater camps. At the summit of the grounds is the Veterans Memorial Plaza designed by my grandfather to honor, educate and inspire all who visit. Throughout the year many amazing theatrical performances are put on at the indoor and outdoor theaters. Most notably is Shakespeare Under the Stars where students from ages 12 to graduating seniors, study and perform one of Shakespeare’s plays. In April they proudly hold the Butterfly Festival where over 4000 butterflies are released throughout the day with games, crafts, bounce houses and food; all there to be enjoyed. During the winter there is a Trail of Lights where many people enjoy walking through the gardens lit by thousands of twinkling lights, then warm by a yule log and roast marshmallows while sipping hot cocoa and listening to live music. www.emilyann.org

Wimberley offers many outdoor recreational activities like camping, horseback riding, hiking and swimming. The Blue Hole is a 126-acre park hosting walking trails, sports fields, picnic sites and swimming in the magical Cypress Creek. In April The Blue Hole hosts live concerts and the Wimberley Arts Fest. Jacob’s Well Natural Area is an 81-acre beauty offering artesian springs and one of the longest underwater caves in Texas which surges thousands of gallons of water per day.

www.friendsofbluehole.org

Community events bring the locals together and attract visitors from all over the world. Wimberley Market Days are the oldest outdoor market in the surrounding hill country and the second largest in Texas. The 475 booths provide food, live music and everything you can’t live without. Every year on the 4th of July the town comes together for a parade through main street and for Wimberley’s Annual VFW Pro Open Rodeo, the best small-town rodeo in Texas. Some of the thrilling events include bull riding, calf roping, bareback & saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing. www.wimberleyvfwrodeo.com

I love Wimberley, and hopefully after reading this you do too. It is a diverse, cozy, friendly small Texas town with huge, beautiful nights sky. The words from the song, “The stars at night are big and bright…deep in the heart of Texas!” are never truer than when I gaze fondly out from the top of one of the many hills in the Wimberley valley, and see a dazzling spectacle of color and light above me.

Liliana Salazar (age 12)

www.wimberley.org www.visitwimberley.com

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 9 Hamper Scamper Watch eagles fly... AIC CHARITY WORK closer than you think! Christmas is a special time of year, but this is not the case for everyone. The expense and expectation can place a real strain on any family, but particularly those living in poverty, facing homelessness or a family breakdown. There are also many lonely and vulnerable people who simply have nobody to be with over the festive period. Last December, the AIC took part in the HAMPER SCAMPER Charity to help transform someone’s Christmas. Hamper Scamper is ‘Caring Looking for a family day out with a difference that’s on for Communities your doorstep? What about getting up close to a majestic and People’ (CCP) golden eagle or a beautiful snowy owl? The International Centre for Birds of Prey near Newent has over 250 species on show in peaceful, open surroundings. The highlight of any trip here has got to be the three, daily flying Christmas Giving displays, when you can watch birds like falcons and owls soar, Scheme, designed to swoop and hover overhead, while learning more about them spread a little cheer from a knowledgeable and dedicated team of handlers. to some of the most disadvantaged Conservation is at the heart of everything the Centre does, with children, young a focus on protecting and nurturing vulnerable species around people, adults the world. Breeding is an important and families at part of this, and in the springtime you Christmas. could get to see a variety of chicks being reared - another great reason Through the to visit during the Easter holidays! generosity of all, the AIC was able to provided a hamper to The Centre also has a cafe, gift shop, two families, one with 2 girls (15 and 13 years old) and picnic areas and plenty of space to one with 2 boys (5 and 2 years old). let off steam. It’s open every day from February to November. More We are very proud to have been able to send these gifts at information about prices, opening Christmas to a local family and thank you all so much for your times and Easter activities on the generosity. website at: www.icbp.org Delphine Barrau Don’t forget to take your camera! www.ccp.org.uk/Appeal/hamper-scamper Tracey Radford

Lost In Translation mother in law welcomed all of Blink.’ Then he said, “Okay! January when I was finally able us into the fellowship hall to We look forward to seeing you to explain everything to him. enjoy a seasonal lunch. We guys when you get back!” Americans use the term “crap- exchanged niceties and he shoot” and it is synonymous I began to ruminate, scanning asked me, “What are your with “gamble.” There is a into space, thinking and family’s plans for the Christmas gambling dice-rolling game in wondering. What had I holiday?” the USA named Craps. To play said? How did this adorable the game, you roll the dice — I began to explain to him the Christmas conversation just you shoot the dice — you’re concept of Space-Available get weird? shooting craps. It has nothing When I meet locals here in (Space-A) travel, and how I stewed for a while. As I to do with any other meaning the UK, a pressing question we were going to attempt to walked home the lightbulb the word Craps might bring to burns in the back of my catch a flight back to the USA. head; “Am I fulfilling the went off. Crap-shoot! Crap- mind. “You see,” I said, “We compete shoot is not a saying here and stereotype you have in your He was gracious. head about Americans?” I for seats on the flight on a probably not a phrase to drop have an obvious accent, my stand-by status only. We into a light-hearted holiday Later, he even had an voice is naturally loud, I ask really don’t know if we are conversation with a Vicar; and opportunity to apologise to us a lot of questions and I have going to get on the flight until his elderly mother-in-law. too, after commenting about minutes before it takes off. So President Trump from the five kids in tow. I always It was done, there was no time it’s really kind of a crap-shoot pulpit and then pointing to feel rather conspicuous to go back and apologise. I whether or not we will get the American family (us) in the wherever we go and this had to make things right, home.” audience. See? I always feel feeling had not improved by but when? It turned out I rather conspicuous. our first Christmas here! The kind vicar and his mother- didn’t get an opportunity to The vicar of our church and in-law allowed a beat or two to officially retract my locally- his amazing 88-year-old pass. They just stared. ‘Blink. inappropriate idiom until mid- Leigh Gust

10 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 AIC Cultural club WESTON CIDER MILLS VISIT GLOUCESTER WALKING TOUR On the first of October, the On January the 17th, the AIC AIC Cultural Club visited the Cultural Club organised the Westons Cider Mill where we first walking tour of the city of enjoyed a private tour. Gloucester with Mick, a local guide from the National Trust. The visit started with a look at the cider making process from On a very traditional tools all the way cold day, but through to the modern-day one which bottling process. After watching offered us a short informative movie, the indoor tour began. We were really a wonderfully clear sky, we discovered impressed by the huge the many interesting aspects of the city barrels and amused by the which was founded by the Romans at the fact that each one had its time of Emperor Nervae. It’s for this reason own individual name. All of that the City’s Roman name is Glevum (or, the apples come from the more formally, Colonia Nervia Glevensium). many local orchards; the We all had an extremely pleasant morning discovering the many hidden treasures and listening to glorious stories of days gone by. We will certainly repeat big apple suppliers bring their the experience in future apples by the truck-load whilst to give all the ladies in the the smaller growers bring their community the opportunity bags by car. We learnt some very to fully appreciate this interesting facts, such as in the historical city. past the workers were allowed to drink 4 pints each over the course of the working day! Following the extremely informative tour, we had the opportunity to sample and savour some of Weston’s finest ciders and perries, before heading to the Tea Room where a lovely cream tea awaited us. Elisabetta Verardi Caroline Pipier www.gloucestercivictrust.org/ www.westons-cider.co.uk/experience discover-gloucester

In January we headed north into Worcestershire and started our walk at the Eastnor Estate at the AIC Walks southern end of the Malvern Hills. Eastnor also has a castle that you can visit should you venture to this area: www.eastnorcastle. com. Our walk took us up to the obelisk which was built in 1812 and commemorates the lives of four of the Somers family, whose ancestors still own the castle and estate. From there we headed down some very muddy tracks and

The walking group has completed 2 more walks since the last article. back into the estate along a ridgeline. After the walk, The first walk, on a misty November morning, started from lunch was eaten in The Duke Haresfield Beacon near Stonehouse. We began at the National of York pub at Berrow a short Trust car park at the top of the beacon. We completed a varied distance away. route taking us across the beacon, through farmland and along www.dukeofyorkberrow. a section of the Cotswold Way that runs through some beautiful co.uk beech woods. This is a particularly beautiful walk when the bluebells are in flower beneath This will be my last walks article as I will be moving on in a few the trees in April. Having weeks’ time. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those completed the walk (and survived who have supported the walks over the past 2 ½ years. It has been an encounter with some curious a great pleasure to get to know so many interesting ladies whilst cows) we retired to the Edgemoor also getting plenty of fresh air and exercise. Delphine Barrau has Inn, a pub with beautiful views kindly agreed to take over the organisation of the walks until she which is a 5 minute drive from leaves, so please look out for posts from her on the AIC Facebook Haresfield Beacon. page.

www.edgemoorinn.uk Helen Clements

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 11 Wow, here we are again! It doesn’t seem like 5 minutes ago we were writing an article ready for the Spring 2017 issue. It’s been an absolutely incredible end to 2017, having the but to join in the fun of the entire evening. honour of performing at celebratory, Thank you again for asking us to celebrate Remembrance and Christmas events all with you all. over Gloucestershire. We were absolutely thrilled to be invited Remembrance Day was busy for us, to sing, not once but twice, at Gloucester performing at not one, but two venues! Cathedral. The first event being the ARRC We were invited to observe the 2 minute Christmas celebration and the second, silence followed by a performance at performing as part of the BBC Radio Gloucester Quays. Then it was a quick Gloucestershire Christmas Celebration turnaround and short bus journey to arrive which was a sell-out event. We absolutely at Kingsholme Stadium ready to sing a love singing in the cathedral and hope to be rather chilly half time set at the Gloucester performing there again soon. Davan-Wetton. What an absolute pleasure vs London Irish match, where an incredible But it wasn’t all business with no pleasure. it was to be working with Hilary again. The £5763.18 was raised for the Royal British We had a fantastic Christmas social event recording session was an incredible and Legion Poppy Appeal. at the Toby Carvery in who emotional experience for many and one didn’t know what had hit them when a semi- that won’t be forgotten I’m sure. Our new spontaneous rendition of The Twelve Days album is due to be released later this year of Christmas broke out! and will be commemorative of the First After a much needed break over Christmas World War. Those that attended had a great and New Year, we headed off to Birmingham time, many unforgettable memories were for a one day workshop, led by the made as well as a few new friends along the wonderfully talented Dominic Ellis-Peckham. way. Details on our album can be found by searching www.pledgemusic.com/mwc January also saw us hold our AGM and the election of a new committee. On behalf of the entire choir, we’d like to thank our retiring committee members for their consistent hard work and support in Over the Christmas period we entertained bringing our fantastic choir together. During at several venues, starting off with the the course of the evening a small collection Military Wives Choirs Home For Christmas was held on behalf of the Little Troopers Cathedral Tour at Worcester Cathedral. This charity and a very generous £69.40 was not only marked the start of our festive donated. Little Troopers is a charity that repertoire but we had the privilege of being the first choir to kick start the tour. The Choir had so much fun performing at This was followed by a day of recording Thirlestaine Park Care Home in Cheltenham at the beautiful Elgar Concert Hall for our where they welcomed us with open arms, new album; led by the comedy genius, allowing us to not only perform for them conductor and all round superstar Hilary

Family Bingo supports military children through times Bring the kids along for a fun of separation and deployment. For more evening of family Bingo on information on Little Troopers please visit Wednesday the 28th March! their Facebook page or alternatively their website; www.littletroopers.net 6-8pm at the Innsworth Station Community Centre - So what does spring and summer hold for eyes down at 6.30pm. us as a choir? Why not like our Facebook Prizes galore (plenty of chocolate..) page and keep up to date! and refreshments and cake too. For further information on the Innsworth £1 only for 3 tickets per game, and kids Military Wives Choir please do search for us on Facebook or contact us via under 10 can have a go for free! innsworth@ militarywiveschoirs.org, we’d love to hear All money raised will be donated to the James Hopkins Trust from you! that cares for severely disabled children. Becky Chappell-King

12 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Italian Coffee Morning Coffee Mornings 16th January 18 What a great joy and honour it was Coffee mornings are usually held once a month from to host the first coffee morning of 10am to midday in the Officers’ Mess. They are open to all 2018. We were happy to put out on offer our traditional ranks, children are welcome and booking is not required. sweets and we were proud to see everyone excitedly Each month, a different nation hosts the coffee morning queuing for our Italian Coffee. The Coffee was prepared so you can have a taste of cookies and cakes that you to order with our ‘Moka’ which may have not seen or tasted before. It is very informal such is an essential part and always delicious. Please come along and you will of our culture. Offering a always be welcome! coffee means “I really want to share a moment with you, to demonstrate to you my friendship”, it is seen as a treat and a gesture of affection. The coffee morning turned out to be a beautiful morning of joy and cultural sharing. Thank you to all who took part in the ‘false friends’ treasure hunt, and hopefully you can all remember that Italian confetti and our sugary sweet almonds can be of various colours depending on the occasion. As a reminder, White is for weddings, Red for graduation ceremonies, and not just paper shreds thrown in celebrations. I will always smile now knowing that COFFEE MORNING the English word ‘Barracks’ in Italian is translated to the UPCOMING EVENTS word ‘Baracca’ which means hut... Imjin Hut?? 17th Apr – Romania The morning was a lovely moment of involvement and 15th May – Turkey friendship; a perfect to start the New Year. 13th Jun – Croatia Ciao e grazie! Elisabetta Verardi

British Coffee Morning Greece Coffee Morning 6th February 18 6th March 18

Following such a super Italian Coffee We had the great pleasure of hosting Morning in January, I think it’s fair to the Greek Coffee Morning in the Officers’ say that we did feel a little pressure to ‘not let the side Mess at Imjin Barracks. Everyone who attended had a down’ and I can safely say wonderful time and we felt very lucky to be able to offer we didn’t! a little taste of Greek culture.

We served traditional Greek specialities which included Tsoureki (Easter Sweet Bread), Kourabiedes (Butter Cookies), Tiropita (Cheese Pies) and Spanakopita (Spinach Pie). We also served our famous strong Greek coffee which really got people’s morning off to a kick-start.

It was great to see everybody enjoy the coffee morning and after a few really cold days, it was nice to have everybody together in the warmth of the Mess.

My thanks to everyone who baked Thank you all for your support. such delicious cakes, scones, tiffins and shortcakes to Evangelia Tsimpli name but a few. The spread was worthy of an episode of British Bake Off! I even found out that one husband was Theodora Kakogianni the family baker and his wife arrived with not just a Victoria Sponge but an immaculate Battenburg cake as well.

The Morning was really well supported by all Nationalities and it was a particular delight to see so many wives with their gorgeous little babies and/or toddlers in tow. I think all age groups enjoyed the happy, inclusive atmosphere as it was definitely nearer 1pm than 12 noon by the time the Mess emptied. Thank you to everyone who came along and also to the Mess Staff who made it all happen so smoothly.

Lucy Michael

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 13 INNSWORTH STATION COMMUNITY – PAST EVENTS

Innsworth Station Children’s Christmas Party

On the 14th of December, the Welfare Elves & Santa Team (Jo, Sue, Dawn, Paul, Nick and Elisabetta), were led by WO2 Paul ‘The Grinch’ Wilkinson in hosting the Children’s Christmas Party, at the Officers Mess.

Earlier in the day, they had been joined by other Elf helpers (Mums/wives), to set up and decorate the rooms in the Mess. In the Dining Room was Father Christmas’ Grotto which looked amazing.

First, the children (and parents) were entertained by a magician who mesmerised and amazed them with his range magic tricks.

This was followed by a wonderful buffet supper and soft drinks; all served by the elves. The parents were treated to gluhwein and mince pies.

After the magic show Father Christmas arrived and took his seat in his Grotto. Assisted by the elves, each child met with Father Christmas, told him what they wished for Christmas and left with a lovely gift.

Despite being excited and tired from all the activities, the children still had the energy to end the party with a disco. Our many thanks to the Mums/wives, especially Hannah, Becky H, Melanie, Amy, Becky B, who helped set up and assist at the party.

Helping children learn ‘To Be The Best’ at Finlay Primary School Sgt Walker and Cpl Locking from the Welfare Centre have been getting involved with the community by working with the Finlay Primary School Year 3 children, as part of their ‘Be the Best’ learning programme put together by their class teacher Mr Delaney.

The children learned everything they needed to know with the help of Sgt Walker and Cpl Locking, from the first Roman Soldiers in Britain through to what is required of a Soldier of today, from diet and exercise and to the importance of Remembrance Day.

Over the period of the programme, the children were set tasks on what they had learned, which were rewarded with a badge being presented and put onto sashes.

The children were finally awarded their individual sashes at a passing out parade where family members were able to come and watch them receive their sashes from Captain Mike Thomas MBE, Sgt Walker and Cpl Locking.

14 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 PANTHERS FOOTBALL CLUB Churchdown Panthers FC Secretary U7’s to U18’s KINGSWAY PARK RUN

It is a 5km run - it’sIt’s you free! against the clock Website: www.churchdownpanthers.co.uk Email: [email protected] Website: www.parkrun.org.uk/kingsway/ Phone: 07985803152 Email: [email protected] Age Group 7-18 years Age Group Various

7 Locations across the Imjin Community PUDDLE DUCKS Email: [email protected] SWIMMING Telephone: 0345 313 0014 07476 663505 LESSONS Mobile: Website: www.puddleducks.com/ local-teams/gloucestershire Email: [email protected]

Phone: 01452 473073 Age Group 2-7 years Age Group 0-4 and 4-10 years Web: www.rugbytots.co.uk

GIRLGUIDING IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

www.girlguidinggloucestershire.org.uk

@GirlguidingGlos GLOUCESTER SAXONS Girlguiding Gloucestershire BASKETBALL CLUB on Twitter Website: For question please email: http://gcblazers.co.uk/ [email protected] on Facebook Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07505 456588/07913 326190 Age Group Under 11 – 16 years GLOUCESTERSHIRE SCOUTS The contact for the group based at Imjin is Rachel Corish, Group Scout Leader. Website: http://gloucestershire-scouts.org.uk/ Email: [email protected] Sessions at The Hive on the following days and times: Beavers - Monday - 17.30 to 19.00 Cubs - Tuesday - 18.30 to 20.00 Scouts - Monday - 19.15 to 20.45

MONKEYAND MUSIC GLOUCESTER CHELTENHAM Website:

www.monkeymusic.co.uk

CHECKERSAND ACROBATIC TUMBLING GYMNASTICSCLUB 01242 525750 or 07768 457403 Email: [email protected] Website: www.checkersacro.com Phone: Age Group 0-4 years Email: [email protected] Phone: 01452 501 536 (Wednesday mornings at St Andrews Church, Churchdown) Age Group 3 upwards Forces personneland a £1.00 can have joining 20% fee. off classes

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 15 Discounted tickets Discounted Tickets available from Welfare For Local Attractions (£10.00 family ticket / £2.50 individual) Available From Your Welfare Office

Innsworth Station Welfare Office has discounted tickets Booked tickets are collected on the morning of your visit, from for the above local Attractions, (£10.00 family ticket / £2.50 the Welfare Office (Monday – Friday), or Station Guardroom individual. The tickets are available to Service personnel, during weekends and Stand Down periods, and returned to the civil servants, and their families who live or work at Guardroom that evening. (The tickets may be required for the Innsworth Station. following day).

Tickets must be booked and paid for in advance. To book tickets Tickets are on a first come first served basis, as there is a limited for an Attraction, go to the Welfare Office, confirm availability number. So, do book early to avoid disappointment, especially at of the Attraction and the date required, complete a booking Stand Down periods and Public Holidays, as the tickets are very form and pay for the tickets. Tickets cannot be reserved or popular. booked over the telephone. For further information, contact Welfare Office - 01452 362550 / extn 4550 or [email protected]

Tickets for Attractions over the Easter Weekend must be booked by 28 March 18, before the Welfare Office closes.

Cattle Country Adventure Farm Park

At Cattle Country you Cattle Country in Berkeley, will find a whole range of Gloucestershire is a great activities to keep you and day out come rain or shine the whole family happy. for children and adults too. We have both indoor and Best known for its indoor and outdoor attractions to cope outdoor play equipment, Cattle with the unpredictable Country has a whole range of British weather. things to do and many animals to see.

Two huge barns house giant slides and loads of soft play equipment. Outdoor activities include two jumping pillows, the climbing net, a huge adventure castle, trampolines, ride on mini

The Adventure Park has been operating since the early Their Farm Trail walk takes you During certain times of the year 1990’s, and has grown from a past the, rare breed cattle, red we also have falconry displays, field with a few trampolines deer, sheep and pigs. archery, punch & judy, magic to one of the best visitor shows, animal feeding and attractions in the area. We handling sessions and tractor have a number of attractions rides. that will keep you busy all day For more information visit: and encourage you to get www.cattlecountry.co.uk involved with your children as tractors, a willow maze, mini much as possible. golf, tractor rides a boating lake to name just a few.

The Animal Experience Centre houses various farmyard animals, this is where you will be able to get up close to the The retreat café provides full animals though their seasonal on site catering along with shows and events plus various catering outlets and a handling of favourites like the gift shop offers a wide range guinea pigs or bottle feeding of souvenirs for all ages and lambs. pockets.

16 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Local Attractions – Events for Easter

Noah’s Ark Egg Fest Sat 23 March 2018 – Sat 14 April 2018 Head to the Ark to enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt like no other. Children can get involved and paint an Zoo Farm egg in the morning. In the afternoon the eggs will get hidden around the zoo for children to find in Check the website for opening our Easter Egg Hunt. hours: Over Easter weekend we’re letting the Meerkats partake in the Egg Hunt tradition. Join the Easter www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk Egg workshops to paint and decorate eggs for the Meerkats. During the afternoon the decorated Post Code BS48 1PG eggs will be placed in the Meerkat enclosure for the Meerkats to find! Egg painting is charged at £1.00 per wooden egg or £3.00 to decorate an egg for the Meerkats. What’s more visitors can take part in Giant Egg Rolling down Rhino Hill for free.

Slimbridge – Dusty’s Giant Easter Duck Hunt 30 March – 15 April 2018 Wetland Help Dusty find our cheeky GIANT yellow ducks hiding around our stunning grounds this Easter! Bring the family along throughout the Easter holidays and have a quacking time exploring WWT Wildfowl Trust Slimbridge. You’ll need to use all your special detective skills to track down these cheeky ducks Check the website for opening and claim your prize! hours: www.wwt.org.uk/Slimbridge Annual Plastic Duck Race Mon 7 May Post Code GL2 7BT Paint a plastic duck during the Easter holidays (24 Mar - 8 Apr) or over the weekends in April - bring it back to race in our annual plastic duck races on Monday 7 May. The duck race is free to enter with your painted duck and they will take place at 12 noon and 3pm. Win prizes from the shop for the first ducks to pass the winning line.

Bristol Aquarium Easter Holidays Sat 24 March to Sun 15 April Check the website for opening Come and get involved with our celebration of all things SHARKS right in the city centre of Bristol! hours: From hands on workshops touching REAL sharks teeth to taking on a shark egg trail around the www.bristolaquarium.co.uk Aquarium there are lots of ‘jawsome’ activities everyday throughout Easter holidays! Post Code BS1 5TT

Bristol Zoo Creating the next generation of conservation heroes! Check the website for opening Our interactive two-day academy is for children who love animals and would like to find out more hours: about working with and protecting wildlife. www.bristolzoo.org.uk During the fun-packed academy, children will find out how we manage the health of our animals, Post Code BS8 3HA how to design an enclosure, what it takes to be an animal keeper and keep the animals busy, why we study animals in the wild and how they can get involved and help endangered species. Book onto the Academy by calling Nicky or Louise on 0117 9747369 or for more information email [email protected] . Age: 8-12 yrs Dates: 3 & 4 April 2018 Time: 10am – 4.30pm Cost: £100.00 for 2 days

Cattle Country Ben Long Falconry will be joining us at Easter He will be doing two shows a day, at 13.00 and 15.00 on the field next to the undercover picnic area. Adventure Park His birds of prey will also be on show in between these times. Check the website for opening hours: Chase & Marshall from Paw Patrol will be visiting Cattle Country on www.catlecountry.co.uk Sat 7 & Sun 8 April Post Code GL13 9EW The Park is open as usual with the characters appearing at set times, throughout the weekend at - 11.30, 12.30, 13.30, 14.30 and 15.30. The pen will be set up on the Golf Field next to the Marquee, and the characters will only be allowed out for 40 minutes each time.

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 17 What’s On 18 July June May April theIMJIN theIMJIN www.cotswoldshow.co.uk Tickets: £15-3-15years £7 Time: 9am-6pm Cirencester, GL72BU Where: CirencesterPark, And lotsmore.. Food Village. food anddrinkheaven inourfabulous the very bestinhandmadecrafts,plus and fascinating countrypursuits,to packed activitiesfor thewholefamily the mainarena,awholehostofaction From showstoppingperformances in Expect anotherjam-packed weekend! & FoodFestival The CotswoldShow www.olimpickgames.co.uk Tickets: Smallentrycharge Time: 7.30pm Date: Friday1June2018 Where: Dover Hill,Chipping Campden, Glos. and dancinginthesquare. fireworks, torchlightprocessionandlive music Evening entertainment includesabonfire, other events. wrestling, racesover distance, equineand include shin-kicking,tug-of-war, standingjump, The gamestake placeonDovers Hilland the peopleofChippingCampden. when RobertDover initiatedthe daytoamuse Traditional andrusticgamesdatingfrom1612. Games Cotswold Olimpick www.badminton-horse.co.uk 218375 Contact phone:01454 Tickets: Ticket pricesvary 7.30am Sunday to Friday;7amSaturday; Times: 8amWednesday Where: Badminton,GL91DF enthusiasts. front ofcrowdsequine country competitionsin show jumpingandcross- riders competeindressage, equestrian events thatsees another year ofexhilarating Horse Trials returnsfor The prestigiousBadminton Horse Trials Badminton www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk Contact phone:01452768928 Tickets/Admission: Free 4pm, Sunday12-2pm Time: Monday–Saturday10.30am- Green, Gloucester, GL12LX Where: GloucesterCathedral,College absolutely FREEtoenjoy. or downloadedfromthewebsiteandis be collectedfromaCathedralWelcomer The new‘Eggsperience’EasterTrail can too! for yourself. Bringyour friendsandfamily amazing buildingandfindouttheanswer and you can follow atrailaroundthis Come toyour CathedralthisEastertime Cathedral Easter atGloucester ‘Eggsperience’ SPRING 2018 30 2 nd th -6 Mar-14 7 th th -8 th www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz Contact phone:01242 850270 organisers for details Tickets: Ticket pricesvary perindividualevent, contact organisers for details Times: Timesvary perindividualevent, contact Where: Various venues acrossCheltenham Imelda May. Astley, Van Morrison,Courtney Pinefeaturing Omarand artists, thestar-studded line-upincludesthelikes ofRick trademark blendofinternationaliconsandup-and-coming town fromWednesday 2toMonday7May2018.Boastingits Cheltenham JazzFestival willbringthesoundofmusicto Gloucestershire andbeyond. start tothesummerfor live musicconnoisseursfrom venues over theMaybankholiday, signallingasensational Festival returns tosomeofthefinestindoorandoutdoor class entertainmentacrosstown,CheltenhamJazz Rae andmany, manymore.Promisingsixdaysofworld- the likes ofRandyCrawford, Van Morrison,CorinneBailey bold andbrilliantmusiccometoCheltenham,featuring Cheltenham JazzFestival 2018willseesixdaysofbeautiful, Cheltenham JazzFestival th 1 st www.airtattoo.com Contact phone:01285713456 Tickets: Pleaseseewebsite Where: RAFFairford, Gloucestershire occasion in2018,thecentenaryof Royal AirForce. This year theTattoo willbemarkingavery special experience isbreathtaking. eyed firsttimeroraseasonedairshowveteran, the entertainment ontheground-sowhetherawide- flying action,visitorswillbetreatedtonon-stop entertainment for allthefamily. Alongsidethethrilling events, returnsthissummerwithanextravaganza of The AirTattoo, oneof theUK’s premieroutdoor spectacle onoffer attheworld’s greatestairshow. Few events canrival theintensity, dramaand Air Tattoo The Royal International Contact phone:Boxoffice:01242 572573 Ticket £78 Tickets: Adults£23.50;Under16s £18.50;Family Time: 2pm&7pm Gloucestershire GL501HQ Where: Everyman Theatre,Cheltenham, author for children. amazing storybyDavid Walliams, theUK’s best-selling comes theaward-winningWest Endproductionofthis From theacclaimedproducersofHorribleHistories lifetime withhisvery ownGangstaGranny! could ever imagine,asheembarksontheadventure ofa and Fridaynightsareabouttogetmoreexcitingthanhe what Bendoesn’tknowisthatGrannyhasasecret– thing for sure–it’s goingtobesoooooooooboring!But cabbage pieandcake and Ben knowsone thing –stayingwithGranny!Therewillbecabbagesoup, It’s FridaynightandBenknowsthatmeansonlyone Everyman Theatre Gangsta Grannyatthe www.rosestheatre.org Contact phone:01684295074 Tickets: £12-£15 Time: 7pm GL20 5NX Where: RosesTheatre,SunStreet,, after theshow! giveaways andeven ameet&greetwiththegirls added extrasincludingdancecompetitions,free experience toyour localtheatre.Therearelotsof The LittleMixShowbringsthefullpopconcert Suitable for kids,tweens, teensandadultsalike, full ofcommercialpop-videochoreography. This iconic5-starratedshowhaslive vocals andis footsteps oftheaward winninggirlband,LittleMix. A highlyenergetictributeshowthatfollows inthe Show atTheRosesTheatre Black Magic:TheLittleMix 2 13 nd th -7

-15

4 th th th -7 2 nd th cheltenham-3141097 www.eventsinuk.net/event-pet-life-2018- Tickets: £60,children’s tickets £30 Times: Gatesopenat11am Where: CheltenhamRacecourse charity, tickets areexpectedtoselloutinnotime. with profitsoftickets salesgoingtotheworthyPDSA displays, shoppingareasandplayareas.What’s more, host offamily activitiesaswellfoodie treats,dog Sure tohave tailswagging,PetLife willalsofeature a charity PDSA’s 100thanniversary celebrations. Kaiser Chiefs,aspartofthecelebrationsanimal feature popsensations, JessieJ,TheVamps andThe Racecourse thisyear. Thedog-friendlyfestival will first ever PetLife Festival willpitchupatCheltenham including JessieJ,TheVamps, andKaiser Chiefs,the Racecourse. Stormingthestagewithhugeacts friendly PetLife drawsinthecrowdsatCheltenham forward tothefestival ofthesummerwhendog- Music lovers andfour-legged friendsalike canlook Cheltenham Racecourse PetLife Festival at www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.org Tickets/Admission: Free Time: Saturday11am-6pm;Sunday 11am-5pm Where: LowerLodeLane,Tewkesbury descend upontheFestival eachyear. the re-enactors,tradersandentertainerswho musical extravaganzas andmuchmorefrom swordsmen, servingwenches,witchdunking, ideal for agreatfamily dayout,whereyou’ll see place for theyoung andold,it’s especially The Tewkesbury Medieval Festival isagreat created withthehelpofhundredsre-enactors. world famous 1471‘BattleofTewkesbury’ isre- Join inthemedieval mayhemthisJulywhenthe Festival Tewkesbury Medieval www.countrytastic.co.uk Contact phone:01684584924 Tickets: £8;£53-15,underthreefree. Times: From10amto5pm Malvern Where: ThreeCountiesShowground, there’s plentytodo,whatever theweather. animals. Withindoorandoutdooractivities close andpersonalwithahostoffriendly outdoor activities,andthechancetogetup programme ofentertainment,indoorand the family-friendly event offers apacked to beahighlightoftheEasterholidays, Adam Henson,andmuch,muchmore.Sure theme, animalencounters,tractorrides, Three CountiesShowgroundwithasheep whole family, CountrytasticreturnstoThe Promising anaction-packed dayfor the Counties Showground Countrytastic atThree www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/science Contact phone:01242 850270 Tickets: Varies Where: Cheltenham,various location brains make uswhoweare. music, anduncovered themystery ofhowour society, delved intothescienceofsoundand gaze intothefuture ofourplanetandhuman birthday andthethreeheadlinethemes This Junethefestival celebrates its15th galore for allages. Cheltenham ScienceFestival offers science dissection live onthe Festival site; Conversation Corner toalargeanimal days andheateddiscussionsinthe From stargazing,funactivitytrails,family Festival Cheltenham Science 14 5 th th -10 -15 6 5 th th th th What’s On

Peppa Pig at Dean Prescott Bike (plus EV) Forest Activities Festival The Forest Activities Festival will take place in the Forest Railway Festival grounds of The Speech House Hotel in the Forest It’s going to be an exciting day out with lots A popular, family-friendly event at the of Dean, Gloucestershire on Sunday 29th April 2018, happening at Norchard station including Gloucestershire hill climb on 14-15 April 2018. offering locals and tourists alike a wealth of indoor and bouncy castles, face painting and magic On Saturday there’s ‘Gin & Jazz Fest’ in the outdoor pursuits to try. shows. Clubhouse – 50 regional gins plus legendary Whether you’re hoping to lead a healthier and more Starting your journey at Norchard, with jazz vocalist Tina May, considered as one of active lifestyle or simply looking to take up a new our large free car park, catch the trains to the finest jazz vocalist’s in the UK, performing hobby, there will be everything from archery, mountain Parkend, with departures at 10:00, 11:00, throughout the day with supporting acts. The biking and bush craft to cookery, photography, golf 12:00, 13:00 and 14:00. Take in the beautiful Orchard will be rockin’ with ‘Brews and Blues’. and throwing pots on offer from a whole host of local panoramic forest views from the comfort of A huge marquee will feature over 20 regional businesses. Little ones can learn all about the flora the heritage diesel railcar. and craft beers, plus a stunning line up of live and fauna of the forest while the more adventurous April Pre-booking is essential for this event. blues and rockabilly bands. kids can unleash their inner Bear Grylls and build dens out of natural materials. Plus, there’s also live music, Where: Dean Forest Railway, Lydney, Where: Prescott Speed Hill Climb, Gotherington, Cheltenham, GL52 9RD a vintage vehicle display, local food market, arts and Glos. GL15 4ET crafts, and much more to see & do. Time: First train departs at 10am Time: Saturday from 11:00 to 23:00 Sunday Tickets: Adult £14, child £7 (2-16yrs), from 08:30 to 17:00 Where: The Speech House Hotel Grounds, GL16 7EL family £40 (2 + 2). Tickets: Saturday: £10. Sunday: £13. Time: 10am - 5pm Contact phone: 01594 845840 Weekend: £20. Under 16’s free Tickets: £5, U18’s £2, U5’s free Family ticket £12 www.deanforestrailway.co.uk www.prescottbikefestival.co.uk www.forestactivitiesfestival.co.uk 14th 14th-15th 29th

Steam and Real Ale Cheese Rolling at Coopers Hill Tetbury Woolsack Races This mad annual event sees various sane and insane Tetbury holds a rather unusual event on the Weekend at GWSR May Bank Holiday. A GWR favourite! people chase a giant cheese down a steep hill!! If you Steam and Real Ale Weekend at want to find out more about this now world famous event Locals arrange themselves into teams of 4 Winchcombe and Toddington. Raise a there is an informative book charting the history of Cheese and them into pairs to relay a 60lb woolsack glass to real ale brewers from all over Rolling in Gloucestershire through the generations, written (35lb for the ladies) up and down Gumstool Hill the country. Normal ticket prices for and illustrated by Jean Jefferies. You will be able to unravel between The Crown and The Royal Oak pubs. those wishing to travel, but for those the strange incentives behind this very odd pastime while The course is 280 yards long up and down a planning just to sample the ales, there enjoying the definitive guide that celebrates eccentricity, 1 in 4 hill, so if you want to challenge the men’s will be a small admission charge. bravery, stupidity and good old adult fun!! record of 3.5 minutes off you go! The link below will enable you to order a copy of Where: Gloucester Warwickshire Cheese The races are the main attraction of a fun (with postage and packaging Railway, The Railway, Toddington, Rolling in Gloucestershire filled fund raising day including: All day street May included). Glos. GL54 5DT market, Charity auction, Village fete, Street Time: From 10am (see red timetable) Where: Coopers Hill, Nr Brockworth (just off the A46 entertainers and Family entertainment. Tickets: Normal entry prices apply Cheltenham-Stroud Road 1.1 miles south of Brockworth) Where: Tetbury, Gloucestershire Contact phone: 01242 621405 GL3 4SB Time: Festivities begin at 10am. www.gwsr.com Date: Monday 28 May 2018 Races start 2pm Time: First race 12.00 Tickets: Free Tickets: Free www.tetburywoolsack.co.uk www.cheese-rolling.co.uk 19th-20th 28th 29th

Spamalot at the Berkeley Show Chocolate Making in Berkeley Show is an annual celebration of all that is Everyman Theatre great in the Berkeley Vale, Gloucestershire Lovingly ripped off from the classic 1975 Love chocolate? film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, our local area between the Cotswold Escarpment and the . Come and indulge in the world of chocolate Spamalot is the fun-filled irreverent parody making in a 2 to 2.5hr workshop. Feed of the Arthurian legend that has had This show focuses on the historical, traditional and your passion by not only by working with audiences roaring in the aisles around the agricultural values with a modern twist, Belgian chocolate and learning some basic world. A smash hit on Broadway and the such as the new “Beer and Cider Celebration Tent” techniques, but having the opportunity to West End. The show was nominated for a and Village Green area. sample too. Working in pairs, you will learn staggering 14 Tony Awards on its debut, how to flavour truffle fillings and develop skills Why not enter something you have made in the winning Best Musical and was seen by in mixing, piping and coating. Altogether kitchen, grown in the garden or created from the an astonishing 2 million people during its you will make 31 truffles. And finally, you can craft box? June original run. indulge in gift wrapping before taking your Where: Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, There’s a range of new and old competitions so why delicious creations home. Gloucestershire GL50 1HQ not have a look on the competitions page and give it a go? Even a fun dog show you can enter on the day! Where: Chocolate Genie, Unit 21, Bond Ind Time: Eves 7.30pm; Sat Matinee 2pm Est, Wickhamford, Evesham WR11 7RL Tickets: £18 - £25 Where: Castle Meadow, Berkeley, Gloucestershire Time: 2 - 4pm approx. Contact phone: Box office: 01242 572573 Tickets: TBC Tickets: £45 Places to be booked on-line www.everymantheatre.org.uk Contact phone: 07496 061780 www.chocolategenie.co.uk www.berkeleyshow.co.uk 12th-16th 24th 30th

Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Gloucester Gloucester Rhythm Cricket Festival Carnival & Blues Festival This year the 2018 Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival, which Gloucester Carnival is a fabulous, The long-running Gloucester Rhythm is arguably the best cricket festival in the UK, returns with a great line free and vibrant procession and Blues Festival returns in 2017 up of top county cricket clubs to entertain us at Cheltenham College. which is lead through the from Saturday 21 July - Sunday 29 Even if it’s your first time supporting Gloucestershire’s cricketers, we city centre each year. The July at various venues across the can’t think of any other festival which comes close to the atmosphere procession encompasses floats city. A mainstay of Gloucester’s created at the Cheltenham Cricket Festival. Crossing fingers, legs and entertainers, and ends up festival season, local, national and and toes for the weather to stay dry, bright and sunny this year at in Gloucester Park. From here, international Blues artists converge on Cheltenham College, you’ll be in for a treat indeed. revellers can enjoy live music, a the city for a nine-day celebration of 16 - 19 July Sussex 4 days CC* fun fair and plenty to keep them the genre. entertained! Last year, there were 70 live July 20 July Essex 1 day T20** 22 – 25 July Durham 4 days CC* Where: Gloucester city centre, performances across the city’s pubs Gloucester, Gloucestershire, and live music venues. Check out 26 July Western Storm v Surrey Stars 1 day GL1 1PA the website for the latest news and 27 July Glamorgan 1 day T20** Contact phone: 01452 396572 line-ups. Where: Cheltenham College, Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7LD www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk/ Where: Various City Centre Venues Time: Cricket commences from 10.30am whats-on Contact phone: 01452 207020 Tickets: Ticket prices vary. www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk/ Contact phone: 0117 9108000 whats-on www.gloscricket.co.uk 16th-27th 21st 21st-29th

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 19 Words from the Station 1st () Signal Brigade Who we are and what we do

1st (United Kingdom) Signal Brigade is based in Gloucester and commands, prepares and generates forces which are held at high states of readiness, to support current and future operations all over the world. Professional, motivated and innovative, brigade units deliver robust and resilient Command Support (capabilities which assist commanders in the exercise of command), Communications Information Systems and Real Life Support (accommodation, power, medical support, feeding) to formations including:

• The NATO Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) • The Joint Rapid Reaction Force • The Vanguard Aviation Force • The Air Assault Task Force • The Vanguard Field Hospital • The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Exercise Tiger Snow Spear 3

Within the military, Adventurous Training coach and wait to be escorted up to the is strongly encouraged as it provides the resort. opportunity for individuals to operate in For the beginner groups, the learning different environments and to challenge curve was incredibly steep. The first day themselves in activities that are outside alone saw the group receive lessons on their usual comfort zone. This type of the equipment and then straight onto the training enables individuals to take part slopes to practice how to turn and stop in a wide variety of sporting activities safely. For many beginners, this can be a whilst developing leadership, teamwork very daunting experience and requires a and physical fitness skills. lot of courage. Difficult weather conditions and particularly busy slopes during the taken following such an event to recover first day of skiing proved to be equally missing personnel. This helped individuals daunting, and added significant additional to understand the threats that exist whilst challenges. Both novice groups were lucky skiing and how to remain safe throughout to have experienced Instruction from Colonel the adventurous training. Huw Jenkins and Major Jonathan Turner who inspired, enthused and trained the After an exhilarating but exhausting week beginners to ski to an impressive standard. of Adventure Training, everyone enjoyed a memorable and enjoyable exercise. Most importantly, it met the three key objectives; personal challenge, skills improvement and enjoyment. A special thank you goes to all the instructors for showing patience and for In January this year, members of 1st (United creating a great atmosphere to learn, and Kingdom) Signal Brigade Headquarters, to Captain Symon Smith for organising the along with personnel from 30th Signal training. Regiment, conducted a one-week skiing LCpl Thakuri expedition in Tignes, France, as part of their Adventurous Training. With a range experience (half having no previous skiing The aim for the intermediate and advanced experience at all) the individuals were placed groups was to develop the technical skills into four ability groups and provided with and to experience other types of skiing, the relevant instruction to help improve their such as off-piste and ski touring. These new abilities. methods are introduced to broaden their Before the skiing even started, the challenge abilities and to provide new challenges; of getting up the mountain was impacted testing them individually and as a group. The by the main route being closed due to groups all underwent training which focused avalanche. An eventful journey occurred, on safety (both on and off the slopes), with the group having to overnight on the avalanche drills and the immediate actions

20 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Words from the Station ARRC Support Battalion Who we are and what we do

ARRC Support Battalion is a multi-trade organisation whose mission is to provide support to the HQ ARRC and HQ 1 (UK) Signal Brigade on deployed operations, exercises and in barracks. This mission sees the battalion providing food, power, accommodation, working spaces, security, medical support and training for the deployed Force. When not deployed the Battalion also supports Station functions such as the Medical and Welfare Centres, as well as any event for the Station and the community.

The Battalion’s soldiers come from 17 different cap badges of the British Army, but predominantly from the Royal Logistic Corps, the Royal Engineers and the Brigade of Ghurkhas. Lt Col Nick Thomas QDG is both the Battalion Commanding Officer and the Imjin Station Commander.

behalf of Age UK. Age UK is a charity that Age Concern primarily helps to alleviate loneliness but also provides advice and support to the Christmas Dinner elderly across the country. The meal was In December 2017, the Support Battalion’s served to 90 Churchdown residents, all efforts to reach out and connect with between the ages of 65 and 95, whilst they the local community saw members were entertained by children from the local of Headquarters Squadron head to primary school choir. Churchdown Community Centre to help HQ Squadron first supported the Age UK serve Christmas dinner for the elderly Christmas dinner in 2016 when the organiser, residents of the local area. Sue Loveridge approached the previous OC, Major Tai Saukuru for assistance. This year she got in touch with Major Gordy Watts, the meal we assisted in conducting the raffle the new OC of HQ Squadron, who again and then helped Santa to give out presents, was eager to help. This time there were before helping everybody back to the buses 8 personnel from the squadron including and then finally tidying up. the OC’s wife, all willing to help the Age UK Any spare time was taken up by chatting volunteers, who do a fantastic job all year with the diners, telling and listening to round. stories. The Squadron’s volunteers were very The jobs on the day consisted of helping to well received and will now assist with the set up the tables in the main hall, meeting fortnightly dinners held in the Churchdown and greeting the guests off the buses and Community Centre. The day proved to be a helping them to their seats, making sure very rewarding activity for those involved Churchdown Community Centre, close everybody had plenty of tea and coffee and and HQ Squadron are keen to continue its to Imjin Barracks, hosted the dinner on then serving the three course meal. After support.

Support Battalion Charity Movie Night – Blind Rocks On the 1st of December 2017 the Support Battalion held a Charity movie night in the International Briefing Centre (IBC). Corporal Arjun and Acting Sergeant Abhiman organised the event that raised £671 for the The film, Blind Rocks, tells the story of Gurkha Welfare Trust and the Battalions a young girl who lost her sight due to fund. medical negligence whilst having minor eye treatment. It is directed by an ex member of 2 RGR Milan Chams and produced by RLC Corporal Nikesh Limbu who were both in attendance.

The screening in the IBC was attended by the Battalion’s Gurkha personnel and their families and proved to be a huge success.

Capt Charles Stephenson

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 21 22 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Words from the Station Defence Business Services (DBS)

DBS provide corporate support services to businesses and individuals across Defence. At Imjin, the DBS Military Personnel pillar provides services through the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) and the MOD Medal Office supporting military personnel and their families, veterans and entitled civilian personnel.

Further information on DBS services can be found on the GOV.UK website or intranet for Service Personnel.

Ministry of Defence Medal Office; 10 things you didn’t know

Imjin Barracks is home to the Ministry of Defence Medal Office, the single focal point in Defence for the assessment, engraving and despatch of military awards, medals and associated emblems. Today, we open our doors and share with you 10 facts about the Ministry of Defence Medal Office.

1. Approximately 48,000 medals are issued from the Ministry of Defence Medal Office each year to Service personnel, veterans, Cadet Force Instructors, entitled civilians and their families. 2. It can take up to 12 months to fully train a medal assessor due to the complex nature of medal assessments. All of our assessors are experts in their fields which consist of historical awards dating back to World War Two, conduct awards such as the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, campaign awards and gallantry team engrave awards, polish, add ribbons 8. The Queen has granted permission for the awards. and clasps, and quality check each award Ministry of Defence Medal Office to display before it leaves the office. a replica set of her personal medal set. 3. The tri-Service Ministry of Defence Medal This a great honour for the office. Office has not always been situated in 6. The Ministry of Defence Medal Office Gloucester. Prior to 2005, medals were issues approximately 300 different types 9. Medals issued by the office are generally assessed at single Service Medal Offices of medals and awards. made from sterling silver, bronze, cupro- in Droitwich (Army), Gosport (RN/RM) and 7. The Ministry of Defence Medal Office is nickel or nickel silver. Innsworth (RAF). home to the MOD Medal Collection which 10. The Ministry of Defence Medal Office forms 4. Since 2005, the Ministry of Defence Medal comprises of over 400 clasps and medals part of the Medal Ribbon Design Authority Office has issued in excess of 600,000 dating back to The Battle of Waterloo. and advises on medal ribbon colours for medals to individuals worldwide. This collection is displayed across five any new awards. Generally, ribbon colours mounted cases in the Joint Casualty have symbolic meanings related to the 5. There is a dedicated Stores, Engraving and Compassionate Centre Operational operation or campaign they represent. and Despatch team within the Ministry of Briefing Room which was officially opened Defence Medal Office. This highly skilled by Her Majesty The Queen in 2015.

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 23 Words from the Station Padre’s Pen Are you emotionally intelligent?

Why do smart people fail? Why do technically brilliant individuals have trouble managing others and collaborating in teams? It is not because they lack intelligence or technical skills. Far from it.

What they lack is a critical level of emotional Intelligence. Let me illustrate this with a story:

A husband and wife are getting ready for bed. The wife is standing in front of a full-length mirror taking a hard look at herself. “You know, love” she says, “I look in the mirror and I see an old woman. My face is all wrinkled, my chest sags to my waist, my rear is hanging out a mile. I’ve got fat legs and my arms are all flabby.” She turns to her husband and says, “Tell me something positive to make me feel better about myself.” He thinks about it and then says in a soft voice, “Well... there’s nothing wrong with your eyesight.”

The answer is clever, but it is not emotionally intelligent! The bible says if I speak truth but have no love, then I am empty!1 Studies show emotional intelligence is far more important in motivation and productivity than cognitive intelligence. I am sure we have all known someone who has a brain the size of a planet but the social skills of a gorilla with a headache. The smartest people might not be the most effective in an organisation and in fact can be the most destructive!

Emotional intelligence is defined as ‘the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.’ It is generally said to include three key skills: • Emotional awareness • The ability to harness emotions and apply them to problem solving intelligent people are also much more resilient to change and • The ability to manage your own emotions and those of stress. Emotional intelligence is the key to both personal and other people professional success. This seems plain common sense. However it is not as It is a big subject so find out more, but start by recognising common as we might hope. The thing about emotional you have emotions and so do others. intelligence is that it can be learned and developed. Daniel Goleman is a psychologist who has conducted extensive Stop judging and start supporting and guiding others research in the area and states: three abilities that people instead. Practice at work and home, and the next time high in emotional intelligence consistently demonstrate, someone looks to you for encouragement, give it to them! especially under stress are: Truth, with love, builds strength!

• They are able to admit mistakes and take personal Padre Mark accountability • They are able to listen without jumping to conclusions • They do not avoid difficult conversations, and are able to Lunchtime Church Service hold people accountable On the first Thursday of each month there will be a Research shows that people who work for emotionally short service held in the Chaplain’s Centre across intelligent leaders choose to give more than what is asked from the Guardroom. The service will commence at of them. In a recent worldwide survey, 43% of employees 1300, and last no more than a half hour and will be agreed or strongly agreed that ‘if my manager had more emotional intelligence, I would give extra effort.’ And before non-denominational. anyone says this is just pink and fluffy rubbish; emotionally

1 1 Corinthians 13 24 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 News From Station Headquarters As I write this there are only three hundred and eight days until Christmas. More importantly, there are only thirty nine days until Easter. Although Easter is a religious holiday, it is traditionally a secular holiday when schools have a long break and many families have a holiday. In the Military, having the nomadic existence that we do, it is also a time when many service families go to visit parents and other relatives.

Easter Day. Many people wonder why Christmas is always on the same day but Easter varies from year to year. The answer has to do with the moon. Most dates are determined by the sun which gives us a year of 365 days. All dates which derive from the earth’s orbit around the sun occur on the same date each year. However, Easter Sunday is fixed as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox in the Northern Hemisphere (Did I hear someone ask “What is an equinox?”). The equinox is determined by the sun, so it occurs on the same day each year, 21st March. This year, the first full moon after the equinox will be on Saturday 31st March. The day after that is Sunday, so this year, Easter Sunday will be on 1st April. Simple!

Going Away? Although we live locally and spend Easter at home, when I was active duty military, many an Easter was spent with family, parents or in-laws. If any of you are going away for Easter, don’t forget the usual safety precautions that can help keep the ne’er do wells away. The advice is the same as always.

If a neighbour has a spare car, ask them to park one on your driveway. A car coming and going from a house can give the impression that it is occupied.

Get a timer plug for your lamps. You can buy a timer plug for less than £10. They can be programmed to switch on and off at different times of the day. You could also connect your radio to a timer plug. This will give the casual observer the impression that the house is occupied.

Get a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your property for you. Also give them a contact number for you so that they can get in touch in an emergency.

Ask a neighbour to put your rubbish bins out – and to put them back when they have been emptied. A rubbish bin left out at the collection point indicates that there is no one in the house to put it back.

Most of all whether you are staying at home or going away for Easter, have a good and peaceful holiday; that’s the object of a holiday. And don’t forget to look out for the Easter Bunny.

Family Traditions. Although each country has its own traditions, we have to thank the United States for the Easter Bunny, many families have their own special ones. Chez nous (where we live), we tend to have our sons home for Easter and we have turkey with all the trimmings.

Happy Easter to everyone,

Bernard Barton-Ancliff

[email protected] Telephone: 01452 718200

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 25 News From Station Welfare Insurance for Moving from the Service Family area – what you Accommodation – need to do

When you move from the area on assignment/ are you insured? posting, leave the Service, or any other reason, there We all know that we should have insurance to cover are certain things you must do. our home contents and personal possessions, but did you know that you should also have Book a Pre-Move Out insurance to cover you whilst living in Service Family and Move-Out from Accommodation (SFA). The requirement for insurance whilst living in a SFA, is your SFA stated in JSP 464 (Tri-Service Accommodation Regulations) As soon as you know you will be leaving, Vol1 Part 1 Chap 6 - Licence to Occupy Para 0605, and in contact the Carillion Amey Occupancy the Carillion Amey Handbook. Team (0800 707 6000, Option 3) to tell them and to book a Pre-Move Out and Move-Out appointments. It is It notes in the Licence to Occupy Para 0605, that Service mandatory to book a Pre-Move Out for 28 days before personnel should arrange insurance to include and cover – your planned Move-Out date. • their potential liability up to a maximum of £20,000, to cover any damages to their SFA caused by themselves or Information about move out can be found at their website their family www.housing.carillionamey.co.uk - move out. By telling the Occupancy Team that you are moving, it allows them • their and their families’ personal possessions and home to forecast future SFA availability for new arrivals. contents • their liability to third parties in respect to injury to them De-Register from and damage to their property. Doctors / Dentists / All Service personnel living in a SFA are strongly advised to have insurance for themselves and their families, to cover Hospitals their home contents and personal possessions, and also Do ensure that you and your family for SFA/Licence to Occupy liability. tell their doctors’ surgery, dental practice and (if receiving hospital treatment), the hospital department, that they A standard home insurance policy may not cover the are moving and when. potential liabilities for living in a SFA, a specialist policy will be required. They can then de-register your family from the surgery, The Services Insurance & Investment Advisory Panel practice and department. This will ensure that there are (SIIAP) can help and assist with finding companies that will places there for new families when they arrive. provide insurance for Service personnel that includes SFA / Licence to Occupy cover. Information and details can be Your Child / Children’s found at their website – www.siiap.org School You must inform your child/children’s school that they will be leaving the school, as you are moving from the area. It is important to do this, so that the school doesn’t report your child as truant when they don’t attend, and so they know the availability of future places.

Redirect your Mail You can arrange a redirection of your mail through the Royal Mail. By redirecting your mail to your new address, you will ensure that you won’t miss important letters or documents, and also to help prevent your details being stolen and used by someone fraudulently.

Full information at - www.royalmail.com – receiving mail – moving home – redirection.

26 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Don’t be an open invitation to a burglar

Its Spring time, with lighter and longer evenings coming upon us. We’d like to remind residents to be extra vigilant and to ensure the security of their home and items.

• Shut and lock doors and windows when you leave the house, but also when you go upstairs, or into the garden.

• Don’t leave the key in the lock of your front & back door. If it’s a glazed door, then the keys can be seen from the outside.

• Take the keys out of the doors at night and when you leave home. Put them, and your car keys, away from windows and doors, where they cannot be reached, in a secure place.

• Leave lights on in the house, or use a timer switch, both front & back, when you leave home.

• Close your curtains when you put lights on inside, so that items inside cannot be seen.

• Shut and lock gates into your back garden, and secure sheds and garages.

• Don’t leave items (ie bicycles, scooters) outside the front of your house, put them away into your house, shed or garage.

• Keep your vehicles locked, and don’t leave valuables inside, put them into the boot.

There is further information and advice on security & safety for house/property, on holiday, at festivals/events, when online, advice for children, vehicles, pets, on the Gloucestershire Police website – www.gloucestershire.police.uk – Staying Safe.

GLOUCESTER POLICE - CONTACT NUMBERS Should you see or hear anything suspicious in your street, please report it immediately to the Police: Non-emergency: 101 Emergency: 999

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 27 What’s on at Innsworth Station Community Centre during the week

Monday 09.30 – 11.00 Parents & Tots Other activities are organised by Monday 17.50 – 20.45 Beavers & Scouts the Welfare Office during the week, Tuesday 09.30 – 11.00 Coffee Morning these will be advertised at Imjin (2nd and 4th Tuesday’s of the month) Station Community on Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/ Tuesday 19.00 – 20.00 Mat Pilates Classes (£8.00 per session Call: Nuria 07528 471091) Imjinstationcommunity Wednesday 09.30 – 10.30 Yoga The Community Centre can also (Call: Ellie Stafford 07801 653862) be hired by Imjin personnel, please Wednesday 13.00 – 14.30 Knit & Stitch contact the Welfare Office for more Thursday 09.30 – 11.00 Parents & Tots information, tel: 01452 362550 Thursday 18.00 – 20.00 Cubs

Innsworth Station Community – Upcoming Events

Tues 17 April Coffee Morning Innsworth Stn Community Centre 0930-1100

Tues 1 May Coffee Morning Innsworth Stn Community Centre 0930-1100

Tues 15 May Coffee Morning Innsworth Stn Community Centre 0930-1100

Tues 5 June Coffee Morning Innsworth Stn Community Centre 0930-1100

Tues 19 June Coffee Morning Innsworth Stn Community Centre 0930-1100

Tues 3 July Coffee Morning Innsworth Stn Community Centre 0930-1130

Tues 17 July Coffee Morning Innsworth Stn Community Centre 0930-1130

Tues 24 April Coffee Morning Kingsway – Venue to be confirmed 1000-1100

Fri 11 May Coffee Morning Kingsway – Venue to be confirmed 1000-1100

Mon 4 June Coffee Morning Kingsway – Venue to be confirmed 1000-1100

Tues 10 July pm Coffee Morning Kingsway – Venue to be confirmed 1330-1430

Date tbc – April Ladies Bingo Innsworth Stn Community Centre tbc

Date tbc – June Ladies Bingo or Film Night Innsworth Stn Community Centre tbc

Date tbc – April Kids Movie Tea Time Innsworth Stn Community Centre 1600-1800

Date tbc – May Kids Movie Tea Time Innsworth Stn Community Centre 1600-1800

Date tbc – June Kids Movie Tea Time Innsworth Stn Community Centre 1600-1800

Date tbc – July Kids Movie Tea Time Innsworth Stn Community Centre 1600-1800

Half Term week – May Kids Disco Innsworth Stn Community Centre 1600-1800

Date tbc – July Kids Disco Innsworth Stn Community Centre 1600-1800

Tickets are required for certain events and must be booked and paid for in advance, at the Welfare Office. All events/functions are subject to change depending on participation and/or unforeseen circumstances. Contact Joanne or Dawn for more info, and look out on Facebook

Closed Groups: Contact Joanne or Dawn to get access to all the latest community information relevant to your needs.

Imjin Community (for all Innsworth Station personnel and dependants) www.facebook.com/groups/Imjincommunity

ARRC Support Battalion Community Group (for all Sp BN personnel and their dependants) www.facebook.com/groups/arrcspbncommunity

Kingsway Patch Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/177246079003096

28 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Chepstow & Innsworth HIVE Tel: 01291 645354 Email: [email protected] Web: www.army.mod.uk/hives Chepstow HIVE Blog: www.chepstowhive.blogspot.com Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs 0830-1630, Fri 0830-1600 FLOG the BLOG The HIVE BLOG is an internet-based electronic notice board, Sarah Stokes, HIVE Information Support Officer which is updated with news, events and important official As you may know, HIVE is a part of the Army Welfare Service, Service community information on an almost daily basis. and as such we are the MOD’s primary information provider HIVE BLOGS have become an increasingly popular means to and a resource available to Unit Commands, Service disseminate useful information, as evidenced by an average Personnel, their Family Members and the wider Service of 200-300 page loads per week for the Chepstow and Community. Innsworth HIVE BLOG alone.

Calling all International Personnel… The International Liaison Officer based at HQ ARRC, is For advice on any of the above, please contact: available to help with any issues you may have during Fiona Traina your time in the UK. International Liaison Officer These include (but are not limited to): HQ ARRC • Housing issues (including SFA rules and regulations / Tel: 01452 718000 insurance) Email: [email protected] • Utilities and local services • Tax Entitlements Alternatively, further information and guidance on a wide range of issues (everything from driving in the • Education (including information on local schools & nurseries and access to school places) UK, to bringing your pet, installing a home internet • Access to the National Health Service and details of connection or getting a UK TV licence) can be found local surgeries on the HQ ARRC website: www.arrc.nato.int then • Opening UK bank accounts follow ‘About Us’ then ‘Participating Nations’

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 29 Health Services in Gloucestershire

When your doctor’s surgery is closed, there NHS 111 Service Gloucestershire Out of Hours are other ways of getting medical advice The NHS 111 Service is available 24 Service and treatment. There are the Advice ASAP, hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s the Doctors’ Surgeries are closed. The NHS 111 and Gloucestershire Out of Hours NHS non-emergency number, calls to Service is contacted by calling 111. services. 111 are free from landlines and mobile The Service operates: Mon-Fri phones. If you are unsure of the health service 1830hrs-0800hrs, Sat, Sun & Bank you need for advice and/or treatment, the You should call 111 if : Holidays – 24hours. information & details of the services can be NB: The Out of Hours Service You need medical help fast, but found at the Advice ASAP website and the • is only for urgent out of hours it’s not a 999 life-threatening NHS 111 Service. medical matters. emergency Advice ASAP (App, Search, Ask, It is important to remember You don’t know who to call for Pharmacy) • that Hospital Emergency medical help Advice ASAP is available at www.asapglos. departments are nhs.uk and also as an app. On the website, • You don’t think it can wait for an there for serious you can search and find details for local appointment with your doctor, or injuries and health services – ie a pharmacy, and to you don’t have a doctor. emergencies. search by medical condition.

Registering with a Absence from School Only a school can authorise an absence from school. Doctors’ Surgery If your child is ill or cannot go to school for some When you move into the area, you must register reason, you need to contact the school immediately your spouse and family members with the nearest to tell them. The school will then decide if it can Doctors’ Surgery to your SFA. A list of Surgeries authorise the absence. nearest to the SFA area is noted in the SFA Area Information Booklet, included in the Welcome Pack. Holidays in Term Time To register with a Surgery, telephone or visit Time off for family holidays is not a right. Schools have the Surgery, and the Reception staff will explain discretion in ‘exceptional circumstances’ to authorise and assist with the registering process. Further a holiday, if they believe it is for a genuine reason. information is available on the Surgery’s website. You can be given a Penalty Notice or prosecuted If you are having problems for periods of unauthorised absence. with registering with a Surgery, Please contact your child’s school head contact/visit the HWLO at teacher for further information about Innsworth Station Welfare absences from school and the Office, (tel No 01452 362553), school’s policies. for assistance.

New Doctors’ Surgery in Churchdown

In March 2017, Churchdown Doctors finally got the go ahead for the building of new premises, and building works began at the end that month. Over the past year, the Surgery has taken shape and is due to be finished in March.

The new Surgery is next to Churchdown Community Centre, just off Parton Road.

It will open the week of 26 March 2018.

Tel No: 01452 899762

New Address: Churchdown Surgery, Parton Road, Churchdown, GL3 2JH

30 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Visit: www.army.mod.uk/documents/ general/Healthy_cookbook.pdf International Canadian Lunches Recipes Join us at our monthly International lunches – an Hello/Bonjour! opportunity to experience the food, drink and hospitality of each Partner Nation. The ladies of the Canadian contingent were very happy to host the International ladies for lunch on the 24th of Every month, a different nation takes a turn at hosting February. We were honoured to highlight a bit of our culture and history. We enjoyed maple glazed salmon, potatoes an International Lunch. The lunch usually consists of a (formed into the shape of hockey pucks) and a heart- welcome drink followed by a two or three course meal healthy serving of kale! For dessert we enjoyed a Nanaimo or buffet, with coffee, all for £15. The menus and recipes bar, an invention from one of our western cities! for each recent lunch are given here so you can try and Thank you again for joining us on such an enjoyable recreate the delicious dishes at home. At lunch, there occasion! is a raffle with prizes from the host nation and you will Sincerely, Angela, Iris, Miki, Felecia and Laura! also learn a little bit about that nation and have the opportunity to meet new people and catch up with some familiar faces. Lunches are organized by the AIC and are open to every spouse and partner of every rank. They run from 12:15 to 2pm promptly.

Keep an eye on the AIC Facebook page for details. You can sign up in person in the Officers’ Mess, or by phone 01452 712 x 6225 or via email [email protected] Remember to sign in using your spouse’s Mess number or pay cash a week before the event at the latest.

Ladies’ lunches coming up: 24th Apr Sweden 22nd May Poland 26th Jun Italy

Maple-Glazed Salmon Canadian Nanaimo Bars

Ingredients: Ingredients: 1/4 cup maple syrup For the base: 4 tsp grainy mustard 110g butter, softened 4 tsp soy sauce 4 tbsp caster sugar 2 lbs salmon fillets skinned 5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 1 egg, beaten In small bowl, mix the maple syrup, mustard and soy sauce 150g crushed together. Arrange the salmon on a foil or parchment paper digestive biscuits lined, rimmed baking sheet. Spoon the glaze over fish. 80g desiccated Bake in the centre of coconut a convection oven 50g finely chopped at 400°F (200°C) or almonds (optional) conventional oven For the cream layer: at 425°F (220°C), 110g butter, softened until the fish flakes easily when tested; 3 tbsp double cream around 8 to 10 2 tbsp custard powder minutes. Using 2 250g icing sugar spatulas, transfer to a warmed serving platter. Serve with The base: Over indirect heat (a bowl over the top of a pan vegetables or salad of boiling water), mix the butter, caster sugar and cocoa as required. powder. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Beat in the egg and stir until thick; around 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the digestive biscuit crumbs, coconut and almonds (to preference). Press into the bottom of an ungreased 20cm square tin. The cream layer: Cream together the butter, double cream and custard powder until light and fluffy. Mix in the icing sugar until smooth. Spread over the bottom layer in the tin. Chill till set. The topping: Melt the chocolate and butter together in the microwave or over low heat. Spread over the chilled cream layer. Return to the fridge to let the chocolate set, then cut into squares.

32 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 German Fried potatoes (Bratkartoffeln) Recipes Ingredients: (Side dish serves 3-4) Meatballs 600g-700g small potatoes (Frikadellen) 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2-3 tbsp olive oil & butter Ingredients: Salt and black pepper to season (Serves 4) 4 thin slices of bacon or speck, cut into small cubes 250g minced beef 1 fried egg 250g minced pork 1 roll or white bread Boil potatoes in their skins until cooked. Peel and place the (one day old) potatoes in the fridge overnight. 1 onion (finely Finely chop one medium onion and fry with the bacon in chopped) olive oil and butter. Cut the potatoes into slices and fry 1 egg with the onions and bacon until they turn brown and crispy. salt and ground Serve with fried egg. black pepper 1 tsp Hungarian Paprika powder 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley

Soak the dry white bread in water for 10 minutes then press it in your hands to get as much of the water out of the bread as you can. Chop the onion into fine cubes, chop the parsley finely and mix in the mince and the rest of the ingredients together. You can either form little meatballs out of the mixture and deep-fry them or make hamburger-style patties which you can either pan-fry or barbecue.

German Lunch Fancy Dress Creamy cucumber salad Fasching and Karneval themed (German Carnival) (Gurkensalat)

Ingredients (Serves 4) 2 thin sliced cucumbers 1 tsp salt Salt and pepper (to taste) 2 tbsp creme fraiche 2 tbsp white vinegar 1 tbsp sugar 2 tsp finely chopped dill

Slice the cucumbers and season with some salt and rest for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, lightly squeeze out any excess moisture from cucumbers. Stir in the crème fraiche, sugar, pepper, vinegar, and dill together and mix with the cucumbers in a large bowl and serve.

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 33 French Recipes Chicken with green olive sauce

Ingredients: (Serves 4) 4 chicken legs or 4 chicken breasts bones on 1 can chopped tomatoes ½ tsp corn starch 3 tbsp olive oil 12 green olives 2 bay leaves Thyme 2 onions 2 cloves of garlic 1 glass of white wine Whole basmati rice or a mixture of white and black rice

Peel the onions and dice them finely. Peel the garlic and chop it coarsely, then sprinkle with salt and let it rest for a few minutes. Using a flat heavy knife blade, crush the garlic. Brown the chicken in the oil. Add the onion and the garlic and sauté, stirring constantly. Season with salt and pepper then add the herbs thyme and bay leaves, chopped tomatoes and the green olives. Cook over very low heat for about 50 minutes. Add the corn starch and mix in with a tablespoon spoon of water and the white wine. Return to a boil to thicken the mixture. Serve with whole basmati rice or a mixture of white and black rice.

Piperade (Vegetarian) Rustico Apple Pie

Ingredients: Ingredients: (Serves 6) (Serves 10) 6 tbsp olive oil For the crust: 2 large onions, finely sliced 350g (8oz) all-purpose flour 10 green peppers, 125g of salted butter sliced length-ways 1 egg 6 large ripe 2 tbsp of water tomatoes, skinned For the filling: 2 cloves garlic, 5 apples crushed 30g butter 1 bay leaf 50g sugar 3-4 sprig thyme Vanilla ice cream or cream Pinch of sugar Pinch of cayenne pepper Preheat the oven to 200°C. Prepare the crust by mixing Black pepper together all the ingredients 4 eggs, beaten until thick and then form into on large dough into a ball. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-based, non-stick saucepan. Allow the mixture chill in the Add the onions and cook gently, stirring regularly for about fridge overnight. 10 minutes. Prepare the filling by peeling 5 apples and removing the Add the chopped green peppers to the onion and mix well. cores using an apple corer. Put the fruit into an oven dish Cover the pan and cook gently, stirring occasionally for about and sprinkle 30g of butter and 50g of sugar. Bake for 15 10 minutes. minutes. Remove and set aside. Add the tomatoes, garlic, bay and thyme. Season with the Flatten the dough and shape into a long rectangle, folding sugar, Cayenne pepper and the salt and freshly ground slightly the edges. Take 2 of the cooked apples and press pepper. Cover the pan and cook gently, stirring occasionally them into the dough base using a folk. Slice the remaining for 25 minutes. whole apples and place them on top. Cover with aluminium foil and bake 20 minutes at 200° Mix the beaten eggs into the pepper mixture. Cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring often. The pie should be served warm with a tablespoon of vanilla ice cream or crème fraiche, as preferred.

34 theIMJIN SPRING 2018 Useful telephone numbers

INNSWORTH STSTATIONATION WelfareWelfare Office Office 01452 362 362 550 550 Imjin Barracks Barracks Guardroom Guardroom (24hrs) (2 4hrs) 01452 712612 712612 ext ext 7089 7089 Imjin Barracks Barracks Medical Medical Centre Centre 01452 712612 712 612 ext ext5999 5999 Imjin Barracks Barracks Dental Denta l 01452 712612 712 612 ext ext5920 5920 HQ ARRC ARRC Public Public Affairs Aff Officeairs Office 01452 718007 718 007 Station Staff Officer 01452 712612 ext 7848 Station Staff Officer 01452 712 612 ext 7848 Joint Casualty & Compassionate Centre 01452 519951 Joint Casualty & Compassionate Centre 01452 519 951 Out of of hours hours Emergencies: Emergencies: ARRC Staff Staff Duty Duty Officer Officer 07788 418577 418577 ARRC Sp Bn Duty Officer 07733 014295 ARRC Sp Bn Duty Officer 07733 014295 Padre 07798 577394 Padre 07798 577394

EMERGENCY SERVICES CUT OUT AND STICK TO THE FRIDG EMERGENCY SERVICES Emergency Services Emergency Services - Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade 999 Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade 999 Police Non Emergency 101 Police Non-Emergency 101

HOUSING HOUSING

CarillionTouchstone Amey – Occupancy Service 0800 707 9882 6000 43 Opt3 3, Opt 1 (AllCarillion SFA areas) Am ey – Occupancy Service 0800(Mon-Fri 707 0800-1500) 6000 Opt 3, Opt 1 (All SFA areas) (Mon-Fri 0800-1500) Carillion Amey – Maintenance Services 0800 707 6000 Opt 1 (24 hrs) Ashchurch, Churchdown, Churchdown, Innsworth Innswort h and Quedgele SFAy SF areasA areas Carillion Amey – Maintenance Services 0800 707 6000 Opt 1 (24 hrs) Touchstone Maintenance 0800 9882433 (24 hrs)

E Hucclecote,Brockworth, Kingsway Hucclecote, and Tewkesbury Kingsway SFA, areas. Market Place Gloucester SFA areas MEARSTouchstone Group Maintenance 0800 0324547 9882 433 (24 hrs)

RobinHCR Maintenance Horton Carillion T eamAmey Housing (Innsworth) 0125601452 739223 313764 (24 hrs)

AccommodationRobin Horton Carillion Stores (ASU) Ame y Housing (Innsworth) 01452 712612 739 223ext 7387 (FurnitureAccommodation for Quarters) Stores (ASU) 01452 712 612 ext 7387 (Furniture For Quarters)

LOCAL AREA InnsworthLOCAL AREA Barber Shop 01452 712612 ext 6033

GloucesterInnsworth Tourist Barber Information Shop Centre 01452 396572 712 612 ext 6033

CheltenhamGloucester Tourist Tourist Information Information Centre Centre 0145201242 522878 396 572

GloucesterCheltenham City ToCouncilurist Information Centre 0120145242 396396 522 878 GloucestershireGloucester City County Council Council 01452 425000 396 396 TewkesburyGloucestershire Borough County Council Council 0145201684 295010 425000 TewkesburyTewkesbury Community Borough Centre Council 01684 294713 295 010 KingswayWheatpieces Community Tewk Centreesbury 0168401452 721552 294 713 ChurchdownThe Beacon Community Children Centre’s Centre - Kingsway 01452 712553 728 995

theIMJIN SPRING 2018 35 the imjin online

Never miss an issue with the imjin magazine now online. Visit the ARRC website and find the imjin located on the home page.

www.arrc.nato.int