On patrol in the Divis Flats 1st Battalion (Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire) Contents

Colonel of The Regiment’s message...... 4 Mainly about people...... 5-8 Letters to the Editor...... 8 News from the Vikings...... 9-14 News from the Poachers...... 15-18 News from the Pompadours...... 19-24 Feature Focus...... 25-30 Vikings sail to Gibraltar 2nd Battalion India in the 1930s (Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and High Sheriff visits Ulster Northamptonshire) News from the 5th Battalion...... 31-34 News from the 6th Battalion...... 35-37 News from the 7th Battalion...... 38-42 Depot, JIB, Affiliated Regiments and RIT...... 43-48 Regimental Association...... 49,50 News from the Branches...... 51-54 Sport...... 55-59 Obituaries...... 60-63 Births and marriages...... 63 Associations’ addresses...... 64 Regimental Shop...... 65 Subscription Form...... 66 3rd Battalion (Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Essex)

Our cover Reproduced from the original painting by Charles C. Stadden of a Regimental Drummer against a back­ ground of the Abbey Gate, Bury St. Edmunds.

1 Colonel-in-Chief: HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH THE QUEEN MOTHER

Deputy Colonels-in-Chief: Her Royal Highness The Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon Her Royal Highness Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester

Colonel of The Regiment: General Sir John Akehurst KCB CBE

Deputy Colonels of The Regiment: Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire: Major General A J G Pollard CBE Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire: Brigadier P P D Stone CBE Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Essex: Brigadier W T Dodd OBE

Deputy Honorary Colonels TA Norfolk: Colonel P W Raywood TD DL Suffolk: Brigadier W C Deller OBE Cambridgeshire: Major R A Shervington TD Lincolnshire: Colonel W J Gleadell TD ADC Leicestershire: Colonel R G Wilkes OBE TD DL Northamptonshire: Captain J L Lowther CBE Bedfordshire: Major J P Wetherall Hertfordshire: Major D W F Willard TD JP Essex: Lieutenant Colonel P D L Hopper

Alliances Canadian Armed Forces...... Sherbrooke Hussars The Lincoln and Welland Regiment The Essex and Kent Scottish The Lake Superior Scottish Regiment Australian Military Forces...... The Royal Tasmania Regiment New Zealand...... 3rd Battalion (Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly’s Own) and Northland) Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment Pakistan Arm y...... 5th Battalion The Frontier Force Regiment Malaysian Armed Forces...... 1st Battalion The Royal Malay Regiment Barbados...... The Barbados Regiment Bermuda...... The Bermuda Regiment G ibraltar...... The Gibraltar Regiment

Civic Honours The Regiment has been granted the honour of the Freedom of Bedford, Boston, Bury St. Edmunds, Cambridge, Chelmsford, Cleethorpes, Colchester, Dunstable, Ely, Grantham, Grimsby, Hertford, Hinckley, Ilford, Ipswich, King’s Lynn, Lincoln, Lowestoft, Northampton, Norwich, Peterborough, Romford, Southend, Watford, Wellingborough, Wisbech and Yarmouth.

2 REGIMENTAL LOCATIONS Regimental Headquarters: The Keep, Gibraltar Barracks, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3RN (0284-2394/Colchester Military 5138) Regimental Secretary: Colonel P. D. Blyth CBE Assistant Regimental Secretary: Major A. G. B. Cobbold Regimental Careers Officer: Major G. W. M. Hipkin

Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Britannia Barracks, Norwich, Norfolk NR1 4HJ (0603-628455) Area Secretary: Lieutenant Colonel A. W. J. Turnbull MC

Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire Gibraltar Barracks, Northampton NN1 3RE (0603-35412) Area Secretary: Lieutenant Colonel J. L. Wilson DL Captain A. R. Smith (Lincoln)

Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Essex Blenheim House, Eagle Way, Warley, Essex CM 13 3BN (0277-213051) Area Secretary: Major D. J. Thorogood

Regimental Information Team Depot, The Queen’s Division, Bassingboum (0763-42271)

BATTALION LOCATIONS 1st Battalion (Norfolk, Suffolk & Lieutenant Colonel M. J. D. Walker OBE Cambridgeshire) Gibraltar, BFPO 52 (Lieutenant Colonel J. C. B. Sutherell MBE Jul 87)

2nd Battalion (Lincolnshire, Leicestershire & Lieutenant Colonel P. P. Rawlins MBE Northamptonshire) Celle, BFPO 23 (Major T. Longland MBE in Oct 87)

3rd Battalion (Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire & Lieutenant Colonel A. Behagg MBE Essex), Minden BFPO 29

5th Battalion Lieutenant Colonel R. G. Greenham TA Centre, London Road, Peterborough (M ajor N. H. Kelsey TD in Sep 87)

6th Battalion Lieutenant Colonel A. C. Taylor TA Centre, Blenheim Camp, Bury St. Edmunds

7th Battalion Lieutenant Colonel G. I. G. Brett TA Centre, Ulverscroft Road, Leicester

Senior Regimental Representatives

Depot the Queen’s Division Lieutenant Colonel M. K. Goldschmidt

RMA Sandhurst Captain R. C. J. Goodin (Captain C. R. Webster in Oct 87)

JIB Shorncliffe Major F. J. Perry MBE From the Colonel of the R egim ent Outstanding performance in Northern Ireland IN October Iast year that great infan­ tryman, General Sir Timothy Creasey, died while Colonel of The Regiment, and it fell to me to succeed him. Sadly a few weeks later another form er Colonel of The Regiment, l lieutenant General Sir Richard Goodwin, also died and his obituary appears elsewhere in this journal. I am glad lo report, however, that our other two past Colonels, Lieu­ tenant General Sir Reginald Denning and Major General Dye, are both in excellent form: long may we benefit from their ex­ perience and advice. It is a daunting prospect to follow such predecessors, all o f whom made outstand­ ing contributions to building the Regi­ ment into what it is today: six battalions that can hold their own with any in the Army. The last year has seen our three regular battalions in Northern Ireland. From reports by those who should know, and from my personal knowledge, all three performed outstandingly well. My thanks and congratulations go to all who made this so — whether they were on the streets, involved in intelligence or plan­ ning, responsible for the all important ad- ministration, or with Rear Parties. In particular, I would like to thank the wives, families and girlfriends who perhaps had the hardest task of all — waiting for the return of those dear to them while themselves lonely and respon­ sible for all at home. They did well by their menfolk. Well done. This year sees the turn of the TA to be in the limelight with the 5th and 7th Bat­ talions taking part in Exercise Keystone. I wish them every success in this climax to ties” , to several shorter notes on matters terest and the only criterion is the style their training cycle. of interest or about individuals. I plan to and dignity of the magazine, which stands As you can see, Castle has reverted to use Castle periodically to keep you in­ or falls by the contributions to it. The its original style. After four years of ex­ formed on matters of common interest: I editor would also welcome corres­ periment with tabloid journalism, the hope that you will help by sending the pondence on matters of regimental in­ Regimental Council decided that Regi­ editor your articles, news and views so terest, starting, perhaps, with comments mental interests would be best served by that between us we produce an interesting on this journal. biannual production in the more formal and informative journal worth keeping to Finally, I come to the important matter magazine format, while retaining the con­ remind us of our soldiering days. of our comrades' association. Elsewhere tent we have become used to in recent So many members and former members in Castle you will find a letter and article years. The aim of Castle is to record the of the Regiment do interesting things and on the evolution of our associations, and life of the Regiment and to keep both past go to exciting places and make no record. these will be expanded on in future issues. and present members in touch. To achieve Loan service, former battlefields, expedi­ I suspect that many of you are unaware of this we need interesting items from in­ tions, holidays with regimental friends, how associations are organised, what they dividuals as well as those from regular visits to war cemeteries, unusual reunions; achieve and, above all, the importance of contributors. these are all potential journal material. I getting Royal Anglians to join so as to This issue contains several good ex­ urge everyone lo contribute. perpetuate their good work. I hope to see amples ranging from the “ Vikings sailing Everything that everyone in the Regi­ some lively correspondence in future lo Gibraltar" and “ Soldiering in the Thir­ ment does is of historical or general in­ issues of Castle.

4 Mainly about people . .. Farewell and welcome

WE wish a happy retirement and success in new ventures to: Col R H Robinson OBE, Maj P H Willdridge, Capt S H Branch, Capt P J Morling. And there is a warm welcome to Maj David Seed RRF on joining the 5th Bat­ talion as Training Major. Congratulations to Capt Frank Froud on his marriage and on successfully ensur­ ing that Eleanor was posted to Gibraltar. Congratulations also to Capt Mike Beard on his marriage to Miss Jillian Goudie in Texas with Capt Nigel Burrell as best man. Our best wishes to Capt Alasdair The Sudan Club members have sub­ The Regiment has been well Wild on his engagement to Miss Anne scribed towards a silver trophy to be represented In Zimbabwe during the Willdridge whose father and brothers all known as the Paddy Ford Memorial past year, with five members of the served in the Regiment, and to Capt Trophy, for the annual men’s squash Regiment on Loan Service. Pictured Julian Pollard on his forthcoming mar­ tournament. Paddy Ford’s son, Richard, are three of them, who served riage to Miss Rachail Pollock. recently presented the trophy to the first together on the l l -strong team at We were sad to receive a farewell visit winner. Richard was visiting his sister the Battalion Battle School at from Brig Charles Barnes in his capacity Miranda who is based in Khartoum work­ Nyanga In the country's Eastern as Divisional Brigadier and thank him for ing for a relief agency. Highlands. They are (from left): Maj all he has done for the Regiment and in­ Ex RSM and Mrs Knight called at RHQ Tony James (3 rd Bn). the QM; CSgt dividuals while in that post. We wish him in February and were presented with their N ig e l Briars (2nd Bn), the RSI and Maj well in his new appointment as Com ­ son David’s medal following his tragic David Clements (3rd Bn) a rifle com­ mander 43 Inf Bde TA. It was a pleasure death in Northern Ireland in a traffic acci­ pany DS on his second tour In the to see his successor at Bassingbourn, Col dent. They tell us that they recently coun try. John Holman, Queens, who we look for­ organised a Royal Anglian reunion in Not shown are Lt Col Alan Thomp­ ward to seeing a great deal of over the Felixstowe at which 114 were present. The son, who has recently returned from next two years. Vikings and Poachers clearly forged many three years In Zimbabwe where he Congratulations to Lt Col John lasting contacts in the area when stationed established the Battle School before Wilson, Maj Bill Brogan and M aj Geof­ there years ago! We look forward to hear­ becom ing a Staff College DS, and frey Simpson, on their appointments as ing how many attended in 1987 now that Capt Richard Clements (3rd Bn) who, Deputy Lieutenants for Leicestershire. the word has spread. last year, was a member of the John Wilson is now back at work after WOs1 Hazelwood and Ryan called on newly-formed Mozambique Training convalescing at Osborne House on the Isle RHQ prior to commissioning. Team, which Is also based at Nyanga. of Wight. Col Dick Robinson has retired to Lt Col Alastair Veitch arrived safely in become domestic bursar of St John’s, Khartoum to find a house with no chairs Cambridge and will once again be able to revisited his old school, Haileybury, and or kitchen — with luck the rest will have devote time to his interest in the Hert­ gave a presentation on N. Ireland. 2Lt arrived from the UK by now. He has seen fordshire ACF. Lance Gerrard-Wright and the RCO also Neil Crumbie who is financial director of Col David James took a BBC camera attended. the EEC Aid Programme. crew to Belfast to film the Pompadours as Both officers are Old Haileyburians Mr and Mrs French visited RHQ on 5 part of a film being produced shortly and and spoke to the CCF in the Council Dec. They have donated a fine carved Maj Nick Kelsey has produced a video of Room. This was quite a change for Lance eagle for competition within the Pom­ their tour in Belfast. Gerrard-Wright; for the last time he padours in memory of their son, Maj Maj Peter Barnes was in France this visited his old school he was the lead Andrew French, who was killed with the winter with Ray Hazan and his two sons, singer in the school pop group! Poachers in South Armagh. Jonathan and Giles, and a party from St Congratulations to Capt Roger Hare on Dunstans. Ray sends his regards to his In 1966 the Regiment presented Lt Gen passing PQS2 for Staff. many old friends in the Regiment. Sir Reginald Denning with a silver Before his tragic death, Maj Paddy Padre Hollowell, who is affiliated to statuette o f a 1688 Ensign of the 16th Ford was a leading light in the British the Poachers, writes that he is now at the Foot on his relinquishing the appointment community in Khartoum and was involv­ Army Engineer School and sends his of Colonel of The Regiment. In Feb 86 ed in such activities as teaching children to regards to his friends in the Poachers. the General was burgled and a great deal sail and water ski on the Blue Nile. On 11 Feb 87 Col M artin Romily Continued Page 6

5 Mainly about people . Korea memorial dedicated

By Lt Col Eric Cooper-Key MBE MC

HER Majesty The Queen, accompanied by Prince Philip, was present at the ser­ vice of dedication of the memorial to members of the Armed Forces who died in the service of the United Nations in the Korean War 1950-53. We assembled outside St Paul’s Cathedral on 11 Mar for the ceremony which was scheduled to start at 1130 hrs. There were many greetings among the veterans of the campaign and the west en­ trance was crammed with representatives o f all three Services. The cathedral was full and Regimental representatives were seated well forward in the Dome. Royal Norfolk represen­ The first lesson was read by Gen Sir There followed prayers, hymns, one tatives were alongside those of the Royal Anthony Farrar-Hockley, chairman of blessing and finally the national anthem. Leicesters. Our other officer represen­ the War Memorial Organising Committee The ceremony lasted 75 minutes which tatives were Lt Col John Orlebar, Majs and Adjutant of the Gloucesters in Korea. many of us thought was longer than plan­ Adam Gordon, Ben Chapman, Peter Far- The second was read by the Rev Kenneth ned, but sermons have a habit of over­ relly, and Tim Chatting. Woollcombe, the Canon in residence. shooting! Four representatives of the Other After two hymns the sermon was It was a well organised and popular ser­ Ranks were unfortunately seated away delivered by the Rev S. J. Davies, the vice and it was obvious that the veterans from us and the crush was so great that I Honorary Regimental Chaplain of the were delighted to see the Royal party, the never found them after the ceremony. Gloucestershire Regiment. Lord Mayor of London, and all top ser­ Luckily some of the others managed it. The wreaths were then laid at the vice representatives, and to feel that the They were: Mr S. Lyon, Mr J. Rintoul, memorial by the Queen, Secretary of country fully appreciated the sacrifice of Mr R. S. Pownall and Mr B. Brown. State for Defence, the Korean am­ their comrades during the Korean War. The service started on schedule and the bassador, Chief of the Defence Staff, Many parties gathered after the Queen and Prince Philip were conducted Chief of the Armed Forces Republic of ceremony and I am sure the local to their seats under the Dome, followed Korea, UN representative, and finally by hostelries were bemused by the by the Veterans Association National the president of the British Korean reminiscences and stories of the reunited Standard. Veterans Association. warriors.

From Page 5 Pompadour's party of silver was taken, including the THE 3rd Battalion Dinner Club cocktail than about 10 paces to move to a re­ statuette. party is held at the Army and Navy Club, fuelling station (in the latter stages there Last November RHQ were approached Pall Mall, on the third Friday in April could be an additional involuntary step or by a TA officer who had bought the each year. This year the party on 24 April two so this might increase, if you want to statuette in Scotland and, following a saw 90 people assembled. It always is a be pedantic about it, to 15 paces, and of CID investigation, the trail was followed marvellous party and one of the highlights course one may need to take another extra back through seven people who had of our social year. step to avoid a mid-air collision on the bought and sold it. Rule number one is not to drive way there or back, providing you can We are glad to hear that the statuette is anything for about three days afterwards, remember where you are going back to (or now back with the General, having suf­ lawnmowers included. behind which curtain you left her). fered minor damage en route which has The manager and staff at the club are But that is not all. Some time ago now been repaired and created problems very kind and welcoming — and generous (about the third paragraph) I mentioned with the seven purchasers and insurance with the drinks for which we are paying! that there were staff. These charming peo­ companies. The success of the party is due to the ple are continually on patrol and, if you The Independent’s List of Army Ap­ environment — which statement I had do not feel up to moving the 10 paces, pointments showed Lt Col G. I. G. Brett better explain. The party is held in a room they will do the job for you; just be there to be CO 007 R Anglian 16/4/87: we will large enough to park four or five APCs in when they get back — or tell them behind be interested to hear how training (though I am not sure if the ceiling would whichever curtain you will be. develops under the new management. take it, so don’t try it!) So there you are. An hour and a half of On 9 Jun 62, Lt John Tilley married Along almost the full length of one of being force-fed whisky (there are some Miss Zoe Parker, a teacher at Windsor the long sides they set up a row of six-foot who drink gin and tonic but there is not Girls School, Hamm. As they celebrate tables (or the Army and Navy Club actually any rule about that — yet) is their silver wedding anniversary they live equivalent, and nicely covered, of course, bound to have some beneficial effect. in Caine, Wiltshire and have two sons ser­ with some appropriate cloth) from which ving with the Royal Artillery. to serve the drinks. So one never has more HQ WARLEY

6 Mainly about people ... Rangiriri revisited Nautical By Maj John Child DURING Oct 86 I was fortunate to visit Poachers New Zealand as the Operations Officer of the 10th Princess Mary’s Own Gurkha BETWEEN 11-22 Jan three Poachers, Lt Rifles contingent to Exercise Kiwi Con­ Barnes, Pte Peacock and Pte Tomlinson nection. This is an annual five power were invited by the battalion's affiliated CPX involving Australians, Malaysians, ship, HMS Hermione, to spend two weeks Singaporeans, New Zealanders and at sea. The ship, a Leander class frigate, British. was about to begin an operational tour in During the preparation for the CPX we the Gulf protecting British tankers in the spent three days on TEWTS in the area. beautiful country to the south of The Poachers joined her in Portsmouth Auckland and we visited the site of the at the start of her final week’s training Battle of Rangiriri, in which the 12th of and first leg lo Gibraltar. The captain Foot (later to become the Suffolk Regi­ gave a warm welcome to the three and im­ ment) took part. mediately tasks were given to all. Lt Briefly, this battle was fought in 1863 Barnes was instructed in navigation at sea as part of the Second Maori War or Land and took the ship through the crowded Wars which arose because the Maoris Gibraltar strait at night without incident. thought they were being swindled by the Pte’s Peacock and Tomlinson became early colonists. competent drivers as well as fire fighters. Maori hostility to the early settlers and The first week ended with the “ Thurs­ the land deals grew to such an extent that day war" off Portland in particularly icy the population of Auckland lived in daily weather with 15 other vessels of (he Royal fear of Maori attack. The British Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. Her­ therefore decided to attack the Maoris at mione was protecting tankers against air, Rangiriri which strategically controlled all sea and subsurface attack, a task she car­ possible movement to the south. ried out to great effect. A force of 1,200 British soldiers (from The second week was the move south the 12th, 14th, 40th and 65th Regiments) through the Bay of Biscay to Gibraltar, and sailors under Gen Sir Duncan the highlight of which was Ihe live firing Cameron CB faced 700 men of the of 20mm cannon and Seawolf anti-missile Waikato tribe under Chief TeWherepu. missiles, all of which were on target. The battle began at 1500 hrs on 20 Nov During the voyage Ihe Poachers showed and by the early morning of 21 Nov the their skills in other activities such as clay Maoris surrendered and the way was pigeon shooting off the flight deck, where opened for further colonisation south. Pte Tomlinson showed the Navy the way. The British casualties were 40 killed and Pte Peacock and his team won the deck 83 wounded while the Maoris lost about hockey and five a side football. Lt Barnes 50 killed and 183 taken prisoner. became good at recognising the inside of In the Maori War an early Settlers other ship's funnels aided by Hermione's Cemetery near the battlefield is a monu­ Also in the graveyard there is stone Sea Lynx helicopter. And finally all three ment (erected by subscriptions from the bearing the following inscription: This Poachers took part in the Royal Navy’s Regiments in 1896) to the fallen British stone is erected by Lt Gen Cameron CB, race to the top of the Rock in Gibraltar. soldiers (see photo) which lists the follow­ Commanding the Forces in New Zealand They acquitted themselves well and have ing members of the 1st Bn 12th Regiment: to the memory of his orderly Edward certificates to prove it. Lt W. L. Murphy, Cpl T. Payne, Pte R. Lauchlan Private HM 10th Regiment With ties between HMS Hermione and Needham, Pte T. Osbourne, Pte J. Who was killed in the attack on the Maori the Poachers now stronger than ever, we Sayers, Pte D. Shea, Pte G. Smith, Pte J. Position at Rangiriri on 20 November look forward to further encounters over Wood. 1863. the coming years. ______Life-saving action by Pte Gilbert PTE Adam Gilbert, ex of the 1st Bat­ driver of one car was trapped in the is no doubt bis cool actions saved the talion, has been awarded a GOC’s Com­ wreckage and suffering from head and man's life. Pte Gilbert was presented with mendation for his quick and tool action chest wounds. a Certificate of Commendation by GOC at the scene of a road accident. Pte Gilbert dressed the wounds as best EDIST on 5 Mar. In (he photo on Page 45 Pte Gilbert, who is at the Depot he could and supported the injured per­ Pte Gilbert is seen with Mr Kirk. recovering from gunshot wounds received son's head and chin so he could breathe. AN addition to Depot numbers came on in the head while serving with the 1st Bat­ He maintained the first aid for 20 minutes New Year's Day with the birth of a talion in Londonderry in Feb 86. came until help arrived. He then continued daughter, Leanne. to LCpI Nigel Giles across the road accident on the A14 on 5 assisting in the long process of extricating and his wife Sarah. LCpI Giles has since Nov 86. Two cars were involved and the the injured man from the wreckage. There been posted lo the Poachers.

7 Mainly about people ... Honours and appointments WE congratulate the following on their RAPC. Clasp to TEM: 5th Bn — CSgt Browne MBE — COS NE D ist/2 Inf Div honours and awards: New Year Honours Edge, Sgt Harrod, CSgt Burnett, Cpl (Dec 86). Col R. J. M. Drummond OBE 1987: BEM: CSgt M. J. Dowland 2nd Bn Hunt (1st & 2nd Clasp). 6th Bn — Cpl — DA Prague (Feb 87). Lt Col M. J. D. and CSgt P. D. R. Brown 6th Bn. Overall. 7th Bn — Sgt Clarke, W02 (now Walker OBE — Comd 20 Armd Bde (late Northern Ireland Apr 87: MBE: W02 Lt) Freeman, Cpl Guyett — RAMC, 87). Lt Col D. K. Harris MBE TD — Dep T. D. Smith — 1st Bn and Lt P L Lud­ W02 Phillips — REME (1st and 2nd Comd 49 Bde TA (Col) (Aug 87). Lt Col brook — now NITAT BAOR. MID: Lt Clasp). P. D. L. Hopper — Dep Hon Col TA Col M. K. D. Walker and Sgt P. L. (Essex) (Mar 87). Boucher both 1st Bn. Lt Col P. P. ★ ★ ★ Rawlins, Maj P. M. Holme, W02 D. G. Senior Appointments: Gen Sir John ★ ★ ★ Goude, CSgt S. M. Nunn — all from the Akehurst KCB CBE — DSCACEUR (Jun Commissions: We congratulate and 2nd Bn, Maj D. H. Greenfield — now 7th 87) and Colonel of The Regiment (Nov welcome the following on being commis­ Bn. GOCs Commendations: Capt J. F. 86). Maj Gen Sir David Thorne KBE — sioned into the Regiment. Regular — 2Lt Dean, Cpl H. D. King, LCpI T. R. Lenton Col Comdt Queen’s Div (Oct 86). Maj N. C. Crawshaw — 1st Bn and 2Lt D. P. — 1st Bn. Sgt G. J. Godfrey RAMC att Gen A. J. G. Pollard CBE — DGTD (Ar­ O'Driscoll — 3rd Bn. 2nd Bn. Lt T. J. Smith, Cpl A. D. Ralph, my) (Jun 87) and Deputy Colonel (Nor­ SSC — Lt P. H. Byrne — 2nd Bn, Lt C. LCpI N. Skelton — 2nd Bn. folk, Suffolk & Cambridgeshire) (Nov Davies — 3rd Bn, Lt M. K. Flynn — 3 TA Awards: TD: 6th Bn — Maj J. L. 86). Brig P. P. D. Stone CBE — DMS(B) QUEENS, Lt G. P. Halewood — Raybould. 7th Bn — Maj E. W. Marshall, (Jan 87) and Deputy Colonel (Lin­ BATUS, Lt D. M. Harding — 3rd Bn, Lt Maj M. R. Mee. TEM: 5th Bn — Sgt colnshire, Leicestershire & Northampton­ R. C. McDonald — 2nd Bn, 2Lt M. C. Nightingale, Sgt McKenzie. 6th Bn — Sgt shire) (Oct 86). Brig W. T. Dodd OBE — Dixon — 3rd Bn, 2Lt D. A. England — Williams, Cpl Mills, Sgt Goddard, W 02 DAR (Jul 87) and Deputy Colonel (Bed­ 1st Bn, 2Lt R. N. Goodwin — 1st Bn, 2Lt Forde, Pte Albore. 7th Bn — Sgt Harris, fordshire, Hertfordshire & Essex) (Feb R. J. Latham — 3rd Bn, 2Lt M. E. Sgt Metcalf, Cpl Allaway, LCpI Parker, 87). Brig C. M. J. Barnes OBE — Comd Robinson — 2nd Bn. Sgt Felstead — REME, Sgt Lake — 43 Inf Bde TA (Mar 87). Col D. J. W. SSLC — 2Lt J. A. York — 1st Bn. Letters to the Editor SIR, years, 19 of which I served. We may just I trust that I have provided the answers be typical and I find that possibility to your queries. Subsequent issues of Cas­ Would you please be kind enough to somewhat disturbing. tle will expand on various aspects of the publish in Castle something about our By now perhaps we ought to be think­ article, but the full constitution and rules Regimental Association for the benefit of ing about bringing all our former-member of the association may be seen in section 8 those who, like me, have left for pastures organisations closer together for the of Royal Anglian Regiment Standing In­ new, but who would like to be able to benefit of all concerned. If we fail to do structions. meet former comrades now and again. this, I believe that the generation gap bet­ When I was serving I was aware of the ween the founder regiments' associations association and the Day’s Pay Scheme and that of the Royal Anglian Regiment ★ ★ ★ and so on, as it applied to me then, but may become progressively more difficult SIR what happens in the “ after life” ? It was to bridge. I am trying to compile a list o f names of only by accident that I discovered that Col Perhaps your readers may have views those who were in 4 Commando and who Peter Badger is the chairman of the on that. took part in the raid on the Hess Battery association. I presume he has a commit­ Stabilis Geriatricus Tic at Varengerville, near Dieppe, in August tee, but who are the members? I have a Life member, Royal Anglian Regiment 1942. few more questions, please: Association 1965. Perhaps some readers of your regimen­ When and where does the association or Editor’s note: tal journal could provide me some rele­ its committee meet? Dear Old Ticker (if you will excuse the vant information. I would be grateful if Has the association any local branches in use of your nickname). Thank you for they would get in touch with me either by the manner of some of the OCA’s of our your letter of 21 Jan 87 which has promp­ post or telephone. founding regiments and, if so, where? ted me to produce the article on the I trust you will be able to find space in Has the association any funds other than association on page 49, you will also find your journal for my request. those accumulated from the Day’s Pay the balance sheet on page 50. Mr E. W. Jones Scheme? One point not covered is your query J Pentre Dwr, Rhos, Wrexham, How can former members of the regiment about the funds of demised TA bat­ Clwyd, North Wales LL 14 1DD. contribute? talions. These were mainly militia funds Tel: 0978 840827. What happened to the funds of the which did not devolve upon the Regiment, founder regiments, including their demis­ but are still managed by former trusts. IF you wish to contribute to the ed TA battalions? This explains why our TA battalions app­ letters column than please write I am an active member of my old regi­ ly for financial help from these funds to: The Editor, Castle, RHQ, The ment’s OCA and it seems to know little of from time to time: they have no other Royal Anglian Regiment, The Keep, the present Regiment and its past monies and deserve your support as the Gibraltar Barracks, Bury St, members' association even though that successors to the old militia and TA bat­ Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3RN. has been in existence now for the past 22 talions. 8 Vikings Incidents in tour of Ulster THE period since the last Castle has been ing the first carol, we enjoyed it. the capture of a number of well known quiet, punctuated by short bursts of On 23 Sep 86, A Coy on the last day of “ hoods” caught red-handed in possession hyper-activity and a few significant in­ their penultimate City tour assisted the of an Armalite, an FNC rifle and a hand­ cidents. RUC in the uncovering of a significant gun, all loaded and ready to fire. We are now firm on the Rock, and get­ find of bomb-making equipment and The incident occurred in the Waterside ting into the swing of a different role. Our other subversive material. area of Londonderry and may have been last people having left Londonderry on 22 B Coy’s final City tour in October was part of a larger enemy operation. During Jan, having handed over to 1 Green most successful, albeit there were a few a search operation the next day, LCpl Howards. tense moments, particularly on 9 Oct at Pearson (A Coy) found a quantity of The battalions third Christmas in Lon­ about 1915 hrs when the Rosemount Base “ sweet jar” petrol bombs (sweet jars hold donderry followed traditional lines with came under an Improvised Projectile amost a gallon), some bombs were companies and departments holding dual Grenade attack. Two projectiles were doubles (two jars taped together), for farewell/Christmas parties ranging from fired, one striking the outside wall, the dropping from a high point. small lunchtime events to mega disco second landing inside the base and ex­ At 1907 hrs on 13 Nov C Coy patrol dances. ploding in the car park. Fortunately all was caught by a CWIED blast bomb. Pte We must pay tribute to our ACC boys troops were under cover and no-one was Jasper was lifted off his feet but thankful­ who produced so many excellent buffets hurt. ly was not seriously injured, however he throughout the period. A choir of On 13 Oct, B Coy completed a near was sent home to recover from the ex­ “ angels” , well Officers, SNCO’s, ladies perfect NITAT contact follow up in the perience and we look forward to seeing and children went round the married Gobnascale area o f Londonderry when at him fit and well in Gibraltar. quarter areas’, singing carols and wishing 1715 hrs a patrol came under fire. The fir­ Lundy Day (13 Dec — another Appren­ wishing all a merry Christmas. Even if a ing point and bullet splat mark were tice Boys celebration) was a potential number of lights were turned off on hear­ quickly located and at the same time two problem day with an expected influx of people were seen running into a nearby supporters from outside Londonderry house, a hot pursuit ensued and during from as far away as Belfast. The RUC re­ the follow up a man and woman were ar­ inforced themselves, and the battalion rested. was at a high state of readiness to assist if A Remington bolt-action rifle with an necessary. However, the event passed off empty case still in the breech and a without incident, numbers taking part substantial quantity of ammunition was being lower than anticipated. found. Well done Sgt West and 5 PI. Continued Page 10 4 Nov was a very rewarding day with

Pte Ryan (A Coy) meets CLF The Deputy Colonel talks to Pte Horton — the other members of B Coy are from left Cpl Martin, WO2 (CSM) Jones and Pte Marsh.

9 News from the Vikings

Left: The Deputy Colonel with a couple of well-known "old faces" — Cpls Woodruff and Smith.

Below: Minister for the Armed Forces Mr John Stanley (centre) on a brief visit to Ulster with, from left (standing): Lt De Planta, Pte Houghton, Cpl King, LCpI Jeffries, LCpI Kelly, Pte Cole, Pte Reeve, Pte Steward, Sgt Hamilton, (kneeling) Ptes Simms, McKenna and Ellis.

10 News from The Vikings

About to receive their GOC's Commendations are, from left: Pte Bold, LCpI Harman, Cpl Saunders, Pte Kellett, W02 (CSM) Jones and Lt W iles.

The Deputy Colonel with WO1 (RSM) Cookson and The CLF meets LCpI Bliss of A Coy with (from left) Ptes Wright, Cpl Langley-Stevens (day watchkeeper).______Bates and McNelly. ______

From Page 9 A strong team of Vikings first aiders Forces Minister, Mr John Stanley, early lead by SSgt Charles (APTC) did well at in the New Year. He visited the City and On 16 Dec at 1536 hrs. Support Coy Ballykinler to win the Regular Army Sec­ met several Vikings. were involved with the RUC in uncover­ tion of the Northern Ireland First Aid On 6 Jan Commander Land Forces ing a bomb factory at an address on the Competition in 1986. The triumphant Northern Ireland, Maj Gen A. S. Jeapes, north western outskirts of the city where team members were: Cpl Weedon (HQ made his farewell visit to the battalion 151 kg of HME and other bomb-making Coy) Ptes Hale, Howe, Knight and Marsh before our departure. He visited all loca­ components were found. Two men were (B Coy), Ptes Sanderson and Whatley (C tions and had lunch with the Officers and arrested. This was very good news indeed, Coy), Ptes Docherty and Short (Sp Coy). Senior NCO’s in the Officers’ Mess. He especially as there had been a threat of a A magnificent achievement. praised the battalion for their perfor­ Christmas bomb blitz around the Pro­ We were very pleased to see our Deputy mance in Northern Ireland and wished us vince. Colonel, Brig A. J. G. Pollard, and Mrs well for G ibraltar. The enemy produced a fairly daring Pollard on their visit just before On 12 Jan the GOC, Lt Gen Sir Robert daylight attack at Masonic on 30 Dec. Christmas. Many of the battalion are well Pascoe, paid his final visit to us in L on­ Engineers were working on the roof when known to the Deputy Colonel from his donderry during which he presented a burst of about four rounds was fired service with the Vikings first as OC B GOC’s Commendations to Vikings Lt from a vehicle in Westland St. Thankfully Coy, then as Commanding Officer and Wiles, W02 CSM Jones, Cpl Saunders, there were no casualties but the enemy, again under his command in Belize. LCpl Harman and Pte Bold. who were mobile, escaped. We had a very short visit by the Armed

l l News from The Vikings

Above: Pte Brown — gate sentry at the Masonic — talks to Mr John Stanley. Right: Sparing a thought for the children of Londonderry.

Mr John Stanley with Ptes Cole, Steward, Simms, Houghton and McKenna.

12 News from the Vikings

Members of C Coy entertaining children from St Christopher's School, Gibraltar

A nice worm day for the Viking ‘fun run' on the Rock

13 News from The Vikings

2Lt David England and members of 5PI the Vikings on parade during the battalion's first Ceremony of the Keys in Gibraltar.

Drum Maj Bokenham and the Viking Band and Drums.

14 P o a ch e rs Starting a new way of life in Celle ON 30 Mar 87, after just over four years in Colchester, the battalion handed over to the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Green Jackets. At the same time, in Trenchard Barracks, Celle, the Poachers flag was raised and all ranks prepared to start a new way of life in BAOR. The build-up to the move, including farewell visits and inspections, as well as the mechanised conversion package, began as long ago as October last year. With many away during this period on career courses, Hyderabad Barracks was comparatively quiet but for those who re­ mained the working week took on a fresh aspect with Friday’s work finishing at lunchtime with a run for all. The CO’s run, as it has become known, has survived the move to Celle and been lengthened to suit the size of Trenchard Barracks. Remembrance Day saw a battalion sponsored service, attended by the Brigade Commander, in the Colchester Garrison Church. This served as a poig­ nant reminder not only of two world wars, but also of the more recent and sad losses of Maj Andrew French and Pte’s Karl Davis and ‘Geordie’ Bertram during the South Armagh tour earlier in the year. The families of all three, as well as that of Pte ‘Cuppa’ Tee, killed during post Nl leave, were present. In addition small con­ tingents represented the Regiment in both Clacton and Boston. This period, leading up to Christmas was filled with external courses and all the internal cadres necessary to ensure the battalion moved to BAOR with enough soldiers trained in the required skills. These included the specialist platoon numbers cadres and a potential JNCO cadre run by Lt Sean Sweeney. There were, however, other events dur­ ing this time. On 5 Nov the battalion was visited by the Commander 1st British Corps, Lt Gen Sir Brian Kenny. In early December we strengthened our ties with HMS Hermione when the CO and a small group of officers and men were admirably

Continued P a g e 16 Bde Comd 22 Armd Bde talks to Cpl Fox.

15 News from The Poachers From Page 15 entertained on board — a return visit tak­ ing place two days later. This exchange paved the way for Lt Justin Barnes and two soldiers to spend two weeks at sea in January. Also in December Maj Chris Groom took a contingent of company plus strength to STANTA to act as civilian population for the 1st Battalion The Royal Hampshire Regiment during their Northern Ireland training. The remainder of the battalion participated in the Brigade Commander’s fun run which con­ sisted of a circuit in Friday Woods. Christmas saw the usual round of festivities and a Christmas dinner was served in the cookhouse by the officers and SNCO’s. The Poachers’ carol service was well attended by families as was the Wives Club party, which was as always a success. After Christmas leave, which ended on 5 Jan, preparations for the move and the mechanised conversion package got into full swing. The pre-advance party under Capt Taff Pryce moved to Celle to organise the quartering, while back in England, many of the battalion filtered through Bordon on driving and fleet Above: LCpI Piper (A Coy) instructs one managers’ courses. of the ratings from HMS Hermione On 16 Jan, after a week in which snow during an exchange visit. had made it difficult for many to get to work, the battalion said farewell to Lt Gen Sir John Akehurst as our Deputy Below: GOC 1 Armd Div speaks to the Colonel. During the day the General M ilan PI. Continued on Page 17

LCpl G ibbons (ACC) runner up EDIST best young chef.

16 News from The Poachers From Page 16 visited all departments and addressed all ranks before presenting the Cooper Cup, for the best private soldier, to Pte Steve Higgins. The General and Lady Akehurst were dined out by the Officers Mess that even­ ing. On 23 Jan GOC EDIST paid his farewell visit prior to his handover. In the first week of February a study period on BAOR and the Threat was held in Hyderabad Barracks and on the final day Maj Gen Sir David Thorne, Director of Infantry, answered many questions. The next week saw the battalion’s com­ mand structure disappear to Catterick to practice mechanised procedures at the Battle Group Trainer. The exercise ended in lime for them lo return to Colchester to watch the grade 2 novices UKLF boxing final against 2nd Battalion The Royal Green Jackets, It was a good contest which was convincingly won after some excellent bouts by the Poachers. The climax of the mechanised conver­ sion package for A and C Coys, with their necessary supporting elements, began with deployment to SPTA on 15 Feb for Exercise Phantom Bugle. The exercise en­ sured that junior levels of command became aware of the many problems like­ ly to be faced later in the year in BAOR and gave the opportunity for minor tac­ tics to be practiced. By the end of the month, most of the military training was complete and the long job of packing and cleaning began. Ptes Toon, Wake and Richardson working on one of the Ferrets The advance party under the 2IC mov­ ed between 9-11 Mar and the main body, with boxes packed, departed for em­ barkation leave on 20 Mar. Maj Peter Willdridge, sadly carrying out his last task within the battalion, remained in Col­ chester to ensure the move went without hitches which, to his credit and everybody’s surprise, it did. After a few days in which individuals were able to find their feet the CO out­ lined to the battalion the coming training season. Since then all ranks have been working hard to ensure that Trenchard Barracks is brought up to Poacher stan­ dards, vehicles are maintained and the call out system works. Both the Divisional and Brigade Com­ manders made their initial visits during April and the battalion is now settling down and looking forward to a hard but rewarding tour in the mechanised role over the coming years in what is a very nice part of West Germany.

Right: The CO serves Christmas lunch to members of B Coy.

17 News from The Poachers

A GRO UP of ten Poachers, led by Lt Tim Weightman took part in Exercise Winter Warrior between 26 Feb and 15 Mar 87. The exercise consisted of two weeks Alpine and Nordic skiing near Wertach in Bavaria. After an overnight ferry crossing, and a 14-hour coach ride, the party, totalling 70 in all, arrived in appalling weather. Lucki­ ly, after two days, things improved and remained that way to enable ten days of the most glorious skiing to be had. At the weekends, when the slopes received most use, effort was put into learning, or in some cases relearning, the skills of langlauf. The climax to this side of the training was a cross country course o f five miles, after which the rather spar­ tan exercise accommodation felt like a first class chalet. During the week use was made o f the downhill slopes and all participants learned a lot and enjoyed this part of the training. At the end of the fortnight the ten Poachers all passed their Bronze Alpine Certificate, very much to their credit. As with many exercises that involve learning to ski, it was not all hard work. The apres ski was enjoyed almost as much as the actual skiing, but this was never to the detriment of the day’s work, which was always looked forward to. With the move to Celle bringing the battalion closer to the good Alpine ski resorts it is intended to build on the ex­ perience gained over the last season and produce a Poacher’s ski team to be reckoned with over the coming years.

Above right: Maj Gen Ramsey talks to Cpl Pinnagar and members of the Milan PI during his farewell visit.

Right; Lt Gen Sir John Akehurst being briefed by Maj Groom on his visit to the battalion at battle group training, Catterick.

18 P o m p a d o u rs Testing time in Belfast HAVING just completed a Medicine Man On 3 Nov the advance party waved a with A Coy deployed to Girdwood in the exercise as a battle group, the Pom­ fond farewell to wives and families and North, B Coy to North Howard Street padours had to do a rapid change of flew out to a cold and damp Belfast. The Mill and C Coy to Fort Whiterock in the direction for their Op Banner tour in West party consisted of all the battalion’s south. Belfast from Nov 86 to Mar 87. Multiple and Brick Commanders along While A and C Coys got on with the The training package went smoothly, with the Q element. 45 Commando Royal business of the handover from the Royal culminating in a week long exercise in Marines gave us a hero’s welcome, ob­ Marines, B Coy found their TAOR com­ Killymurphy, the BAOR equivalent of viously being extremely glad to see us pletely out of bounds to patrols and con­ Rype Village. Throughout the exercise arriving. sequently hardly set a foot on the ground people were heard to say “ It will never Shortly before our tour began the West until the first week of the tour. happen like this in Belfast, probably Belfast TAOR was increased in size to The main body flew out between 10-12 won’t get a single incident” . How wrong take in the huge area of North Belfast. Nov ready to go out on the streets within they were! This meant the battalion’s patch doubled hours of arriving. Within a matter of days the battalion had settled down to their new task of supporting the RUC in Belfast. A Coy had the first major operation of the tour on 15 Nov when they had to deal with a large march attended by more than 100,000 people and celebrating the an­ niversary of the Anglo-Irish agreement. Also within a few days of arriving, ail three companies found themselves out on cordons dealing with hoax and real devices. These first few incidents, which were dealt with quickly, were seen very much as PIRA "testing us out” and it was only later that we found that we had some very close shaves with secondary bombs being planted in cordon areas. After the initial flurry of activity the en­ tire TAOR settled down to a steady level of incidents leading up to Christmas. However, on 16 Dec the start o f a new PIRA campaign was marked by the proxy bombing of RUC Lisburn Road with an 800lb bomb. The police station was com­ pletely demolished, as was a local church, luckily with no casualties. Christmas itself was very quiet with only a visit from the Prime Minister on 23 Dec and an issue of rum on Christmas Day from the CLF. Maj Gen A. S. Jeapes, to liven things up. By mid-January the Belfast brigade of PIRA had completed their reorganisation and more attacks were being planned. On 12 Jan a VCP mounted by C Coy foiled a second proxy bomb incident with a Mercedes Van being found later with 4501bs of high quality explosives inside it. A few days later C Coy made another find of 140lb of home-made explosive hidden in a hedge. On 30 Jan a minor bombing campaign started with a large car-bomb detonated in the city centre. The Mayor of Hertford Sunset in the Clonords. Continued Page 20

19 News from The Pompadours

Getting to know the younger generation. From Page 19 pened “unrealistically fast” . For every was visiting the battalion at the time and serious incident there were many hoaxes, was about 800 metres away from the false alarms and close shaves. device as it exploded. On 5 Feb an alert foot patrol from C Moments later the Ambassador Hotel Coy were instrumental in the capture and in North Belfast was set on fire by one of arrest of two INLA terrorists and the five devices planted by an armed gang and retrieval of a pistol thrown into some a holdall full of explosives detonated on a bushes. Pte Gascoine was promoted to windowsill outside Mackies factory on the LCpI by the CO for his part in this action. Springfield Road. The following day, On 6 Feb about 12 incendiary devices during a cordon operation by B Coy, a were cleared from the Park Centre on the very sophisticated car bomb was Donegal Road and on 7 Feb, after some discovered on the Springfield Road ob­ nasty crowd trouble on the Falls Road, viously designed to kill cordon troops Pte Cook engaged an INLA gunman in from the previous day’s holdall bomb. the Divis Flats with two rounds. During February incidents began to Thanks to Cook’s quick reactions the happen thick and fast with PIRA becom­ gunmen was prevented from firing, The Band held a concert in the city ing more active than they had been for although unfortunately he escaped into centre before Christmas the years. As February drew on people were the flats complex. Bandmaster is seen here with a reminded, at times, of Killymurphy, the On 12 Feb a routine foot patrol in the younger member of the audience. NITAT training village were events hap­ New Barnsley area discovered some MK 10 mortar components in a coal bunker and later the same evening a PIRA gun team fired several shots at the top sanger of RUC Woodbourne while an IPG was fired at the front gate from a passing car. On 13 Feb a PIRA bombing team were prevented from firing a claymore device planted in a derelict house on the Falls Road and over the next two days B Coy mounted an operation to clear the device. By 15 Feb the claymore had been defused and a particularly nasty attack prevented. Had the device been detonated it would have shot ball bearings into the childrens’ ward of the Royal Victoria Hospital op­ posite.

The Mayor of Chelmsford with the CO and the RSM Continued Page 22

20 News from The Pompadours

Left: Training for Ulster tour.

Middle left: The Prime Minister chats to men of A Coy at Girdwood.

Below: Brig Wheeler. Director of Army Plans with CSgt Hillier.

Bottom left: Keeping alert. * Bottom right: The CO and Chief Inspector Jillery during the Mackies car bomb incident.

21 News from The Pompadours

From Page 20 On 16 Feb a cordon, again from B Coy, was deployed to clear a hoax device from the doorway of a shopping centre on the Springfield Road. While the cordon was collapsing, after the clearance of the device, three shots were fired at two bricks of the Milan platoon. Having got a taste for shootings PIRA again took on a cordon on 21 Feb with 16 rounds from an Armalite. Cpl Simmons and Pte Wing had a very lucky escape. On 23 Feb a mobile patrol was fired at by a gunman in the Divis Flats using a shotgun. On 27 Feb the Protestant Militants began a hoax bomb campaign in A Coy’s area that was to keep the company in cor­ don positions for many hours. This went on sporadically, reaching a peak on 6 and 7 Mar when A Coy dealt with some 30 hoax devices. On 6 Mar a multiple from 4 PI, B Coy was moving through the Clonards when another claymore type device was detonated in a derelict house on Clonard Street. Luckily the company commander’s rover group had arrived moments before the blast and the APV took most of the explosion. Pte Brady All quiet on the streets. was thrown across the street receiving ing which he went home to London where discovered and defused by ATO. damage to an eye, an ear and a few flesh he was treated to a day out by Arsenal On 10 Mar, A Coy’s hoax problems wounds. Football Club and a ticket to the League having receded somewhat, an RUC The remainder of the brick, including Cup final. Hotspur mobile reacted to a 999 call the multiple commander, 2Lt Baker, had On 7 Mar A Coy’s fight against the about an armed robbery taking place in a a lucky escape and were left with only Protestant hoax bombers continued while shop in the Ardoyne. At 2054 hrs Reserve ringing in their ears. Brady spent a few B Coy mounted an operation in the Constable Nesbitt dismounted from the days recoving in Musgrave Park Hospital Ballymurphy during which a nasty pipe RUC Hotspur outside a bakers shop on when he was visited by his parents follow­ bomb on the side of a telegraph pole was the Ardoyne shop fronts and a 40lb com­ mand wire bomb was detonated, killing him instantly. The bomb had been planted inside the bakers with people living in flats above the shops and had been detonated with locals on the street nearby. A Coy mounted a massive follow up operation searching over 16 houses and maintaining a cordon in the area for 24 hrs. It is hoped that some of the forensic evidence gathered during the follow up will even­ tually lead to the arrest of Constable Nesbitt’s murderers. This has been an intensely busy period for the whole battalion and a combination of pure good luck and our own skill on the ground has meant that the only casualty was Pte Brady. The fact that the tour was extremely busy meant that time flew and it was not long before the battalion was climbing on board the VC10s bound for Minden. It has been an excellent tour for the Pompadours and a very good experience for commanders at all levels with young lance corporals growing up quickly. Most of the Pompadours would agree that Maj Nick Kelsey of the 5th Bn made a video of the tour at Christmas. Continued Page 23

22 News from The Pompadours From P age 1 1 while being one of the hardest jobs many have done, it h as also been one of the most enjoyable. Having said that we were all glad to st:e the back of Belfast and be returning to wives and families in Minden The tour in West Belfast was notable not only for being one of the busiest for terrorist activity for years, but also for the amount of senior visitors that the- bat talion hosted. Soon after the start of the tour Comd ! (BR) Corps, Lt Gen Sir Brian Kenny, visited, shortly followed by our Divisional Commander, Maj Gen Hobbs. The highlight of the Christmas visitors was the visit of the Prime Minister on 23 Dec. She flew into Girdwood and spent quite some time chatting to the soldiers of A Coy. Maj Nick Kelsey of 5 R Anglian stayed with us for a week shortly after Christmas Sir Anthony Buck, MP for Colchester North with CSM Twell and Sgt Conopo on top during which time he made an excellent of the Divis T o w e r. ______video of the “Pompadours in Belfast” . On 8 Jan the CGS, Gen sir Nigel Bagnall visited. On 6 Feb Maj Gen Ward Booth (deputy Colonel of the Regiment) stayed with the battalion on his last day in uniform, and on 25 Feb the Colonel of the Regiment, Lt Gen Sir John Akehurst visited. In between the senior military visitors the Pompadours also hosted five mayors from our home boroughs. They were the Mayors of Hertford, Chelmsford, Col- chester, Bedford and Watford. Each of them brought a local reporter and the bat­ talion gained a great deal of Press coverage. The High Sheriff of Essex visited on the 4 Mar bringing with him 750 cans of beer for the boys — greatly ap- preciated. One way or another the Pompadours have become quite well known in both military circles and back in our home The Deputy-Colonel visited us on his last day in uniform counties as a result of this tour.

The Mayor of Watford. The Mayor of Bedford meets the CO.

23 News from The Pompadours

LCpI Cooney, C Coy searches a local.

The Colonel of the Regiment with Maj Julian Lacey at North Howard Street Mill.

Cpl Mackness A Coy, during a VCP The M a y o r of Hertford. operation.

24 Feature Focus Vikings return to sea A BRIEF warning “ Look out! Hold on!” crest with height to match, the troughs a danced in wild arcs in their hands, defying and the boat slammed to a halt again, hit lonely and, to the new watch as they that brief moment of union. just forward of the beam by the lip of tumbled their way out on deck, a frighten­ Opposite them, members of the watch another enormous wave; the deck and ing place. just off struggled out of harnesses and cockpit were enveloped in a solid mass of Below, the mother watch, struggling to dripping oilskins, all clothes underneath water leaving the four men on watch gasp­ serve up bread and hot soup to keep body damp, soaked at the neck, wrist and ing and spluttering while standing knee and soul together for the 12-man crew, ankle. The waiting diners watched high in brine, the self-draining system cursed volubly as the cabin floor, already patiently, jammed into spaces round the struggling to cope with the water. at an impossible angle, dropped sickeningly cabin. Slowly the boat gathered way once away only to slam back at bodies The skipper at the navigation table more, heeling over in the Gale Force 11 bruised and tired out from the perpetual completed a sitrep with a Naval ship for winds. The waves were awe-inspiring; a battering; the objects of their attention, onward transmission to Gosport, the first full football pitch in length from crest to an empty mug and a half ladleful of soup message passed for a couple of storm- tossed days; as he turned away, another voice, unidentified, came over the ether. “ Dasher? You must be mad to be out in the Bay of Biscay on a night like this!” We could not but agree; how to get off was the problem! From the corner of the cabin Mark Wenham, married just over a week before, asked “ Whose was this great idea anyway?” All eyes swung on me. Reintroducing "Vikings” to the sea after a layoff of some 1,500 years I had made increasingly ambitious trips around SW Scotland with members of the 1st Bat­ talion, mostly B Coy, in a Contessa 32 between stints of operational duty in Lon­ donderry over the last two years. In the summer the idea of a “ blue water” cruise in the biggest of service yachts seemed like a fitting climax; ending in Gibraltar, our new posting, it would also be a suitable Viking arrival. I applied to crew a leg of Medchase from Sicily to the western end of the Mediterranean, Turning us down, we were offered instead the first leg of Carib- dash, a Naval exercise to meet up and cruise with Fleet ships in the Caribbean; the Nic 55 needed to be moved from her home, Gosport, to Gibraltar to meet up with the first of her Naval crews. It wasn't quite the “ blue water” cruise I had in mind, especially Biscay in December, but then adventure training is meant lo be character forming and there was every chance of that! Besides, as Hager says, “ Vikings can lake it” . The Adjutant, Rupert Lucas, and I combined forces and through persistence and trickery persuaded the CO to back the venture. There had been great enthusiasm among the nucleus of sailors, so now I stared back resolutely at the accusing eyes. Arriving at the Joint Service Sailing Centre, Gosport, on the evening of 1 Dec the 10 man Viking crew met up with the skipper and first mate, both JSSC skip­ pers and Naval Petty Officers. Stowage and briefings followed at which skipper Dan suggested a beard growing contest in Heavy sailing after the storm. Copt Rupert Lucas well buttoned up. Continued Pago 26 Feature Focus ing 58 knots of wind, Gale Force 11, at which point the anemometer gave up the struggle. On deck, turns on the helm were down to 20 minutes of exhausting work, the helmsman forced to wear goggles against the stinging spray. Bilges, pumped every hour and normally dry after two or three strokes were now emptying after 35; by lunchtime Monday they reached a peak at 79 strokes! Our charted position was pitifully close to the plot made 12 hours previously. An abatement and slight windshift followed on Monday morning, producing the most exhilarating sailing of the trip. That night with Force 7 to 8 winds we crossed mountainous seas; roaring up and across the face of huge waves, Dasher almost leapt off the crests then plunged down the long backs and into the deep valley o f the troughs, the seas glistening in the moonlight. Blood coursed with the adrenalin, the crew on watch whooping involuntarily as they clung on, seemingly riding a huge toboggan down a moonlit, Calm weather — from left: Pte Ned Kellet, LCpI Tony Boterill, 2Lt Patrick Dean snow covered mogulfield. At midnight we and Pte Brian Raw. had clocked 138 miles in an exhausting From Page 25 day’s sailing. westerly Force 6 wind. Though we could Those that had suffered were now well the interest of reducing water consump­ now sail in our intended direction the pro­ over their seasickness, though Geordie tion. Then the crew hit port to celebrate spects were not good, but time had run Patterson had been forced into his bunk Tony Botterill’s 21st birthday and Mark out. with ’flu. The jarring slam of boat into Wenham’s wedding. The wind became weaker and variable wave had ceased with the windshift and Next day, Tuesday, a Force 6 wind was during the night. A beautiful sunrise on off watch crews slept deeply for the first blowing from the southwest, exactly our Saturday, with dolphins alongside at time in days to a cacophony of snores led intended direction. With time still in our breakfast but the bumpy seas were still in­ by Patrick Dean. favour Dan elected to head westward for cluding sickness; Brian Raw scored an all- Recently lewd dreams had been a com­ Weymouth. Looking at the chart there’s a time record; two bites of toast and away! mon feature in our fitful sleep; now the lot of water to be gained before rounding The barometer fell all day, the wind second mate was accused of the ultimate Finistere. from the south forcing us to sail close wet dream; sleeping on the lee side, he Out past the Needles it was a hard, wet awoke to find the whole bunk awash, all day into the wind with many sick and only The boat; HMSTY Dasher, a 55ft clothes and sleeping bag soaked. The leak 40 miles gained. Wednesday was no bet­ Nicholson. was later traced to the liferaft locker out­ ter, and heading on down to Dartmouth, The crew: Skipper — Dan Naylor RN, side in the cockpit but at the time it cer­ sealegs were still unsteady, though Alan First mate — Alan Bishop RN, Second tainly added a certain character to the Bishop put his sickness down to a heavy mate — Maj Bill Mooring. moment! session ashore the night before. The skip­ Watches: Leaders — Capt Mark The storm had delayed us so badly that per’s insistance on throwing a tin of Wenham, Capt Rupert Lucas, 2 Lt Patrick skipper now confirmed his earlier idea to goulash into the pea soup to “give it Dean. continue directly on to Villamoura, leav­ body” was observed not to help! Crew — Pte Ned Kellett, Pte Mark ing out Bayona since time was pressing. The weather worsened. Thursday 4 Newson, Pte Paddy Braine, Cpl Geordie Over the next three days winds became Dec, Gale Force 8 winds from the south­ Patterson, LCpI Tony Botterill, Pte Brian variable though mostly from the south west. The skipper and mates pored over Raw. and we tacked steadily on down the Por­ the shipping forecast; there was a promise tugese coast, resorting to the engine dur­ of the wind freeing off by Friday; in the ing extended calms. meantime there was little to be gained hauled. By midnight we had logged 203 Just short of Cape St Vincent land was thrashing on to Falmouth. We stayed in miles from Dartmouth. sighted at 1625 on Friday 12th, the first Dartmouth, carrying out repairs, shop­ We battled on through increasingly seen for seven days. ping, resting. worse weather and heavier winds. By There was an opportunity to dry out Skipper and first mate led the raiding lunchtime Sunday the storm jib had been clothes in the sunnier conditions and life party ashore by lunchtime; they were raised, the main reefed down to the third became more bearable. Dolphins abound­ already hardened Vikings. Reporting pro­ slab by tea-time. Writing in the log ed in the area, schools of them visiting us gress back to Londonderry there was an became almost illegible. Winds were a several times, leaping out of the water and increasing tone of scepticism from the steady 40 knots plus by 1900, Gale Force cutting under the yacht at speed. A whale other end: were we going to Gibraltar or 9. Still, we were managing a general had surprised the morning watch on was this a glorified pub crawl? southerly course and made 139 miles by Thursday 11th, surfacing some 25 metres Slipping out of Dartmouth at 1345 on midnight. off to port, exhaling with a long sigh. Friday we saluted the submarine Onyx as Conditions continued to deteriorate she came in and made our way out into a during darkness; by 0800 we were register­ Continued Page 27

26 Feature Focus

From Page 26 There were photocalls during some in­ credible sunsets. The second mate con­ ducted astrological tuition on starlit nights lying on his back with a planisphere held up over his head. We reached Villamoura early on Satur­ day morning. There followed a concerted restoration period on boat and bodies. Villamoura turned out to be little more than an excellent new marina, fronted by concrete bars, shops and holiday accom­ modation. Prices were high ashore but a taxi ride to the nearby village put a number of us into a local restaurant, looking from the outside little more than a garage work­ LCpI Tony Boterill at the helm with 2Lt Patrick Dean as the storm approaches. shop, with the cook managing flam­ boyantly over an open fire in the corner. based liqueur, a bottle of which returned west. After a dull, misty and rainy night, Soup, huge swordfish steaks and copious to the boat for continued consumption. the Rock of Gibraltar was sighted at 1340 quantities of wine cost £2.50 a head, less Clearing Portugese customs at 1000 on on Monday 15 Dec, bathed in sunshine. than the price of a starter at the marina Sunday we set course for Cape Trafalgar With the wind abaft the beam we had restaurants. in windless conditions. Apart from a brief some of the best sailing of the trip, bang After, making friends with Britain’s spell when the spinnaker was set we were upright, in sunshine, at a good pace and oldest allies in a local bar, we acquired a forced to motor until the next morning again escorted by dolphins. taste for Amorguinta, a local almond- when the wind picked up from the south­ That evening, in company with Vikings from the battalion’s pre-advance party we dined the skipper and first mate out as a token of our appreciation ending at Jim’s Den where, after much fondling, the waitress decided the beard growing con­ test in favour o f the second mate with Rupert Lucas coming a close second. However, along with Patrick Dean and Paddy Braine he deserves recognition for never even looking ill, despite the con­ ditions and the desperate tasks of cooking and cleaning up below. Ned Kellett, Brian Raw and "Choggie” Newson too showed Viking grit, playing their part to the full while variously being wickedly sick. Only the skipper, Paddy Braine and the commissioned officers did not succumb; the stiff upper lip? Next day, closely shaved and respec­ tably dressed; with mixed feelings we lowered the Viking’s houseflag, a Norse helmet superimposed on Minden colours, before leaving the boat. In the last fort­ night we had battled over 1,300 miles, sailing into wind for an exhausting 10 days, the worst weather the skipper could recall in all his time sailing. Much of a team before we began, the crew had impressed him greatly. Despite the horrors of the voyage, there was a reluctance to go, to break up such a team, bound closely by the experience shared. As adventurous training at its best in­ tends, every man had learned a great deal about himself and his companions. For the battalion, a hard core of off­ shore sailing now exists, to be put to good use over the next two years in the waters around the Rock and, who knows, further afield. Vikings are afloat again! Maj Bill Mooring readies himself to catch the photographer. Magnus The Viking

27 Feature Focus Recalling days in India THIS photo of (left to right) Lts P. D. Smitherman, J. R. B. Prescott, 2Lt G. T. O. Springfield and Lt W, S. Bevan was taken at Mhow Cantoonments, Central India, in early 1938 when they were serv­ ing with 2 Suffolk. Now, after almost 50 years, they are still going strong(-ish). On disembarking from a troopship at Bombay after more than three weeks at sea, one travelled on the Frontier Mail 250 miles north east to Rutlam Junction and changed to the narrow-gauge line for the remaining 80 miles or so to Mhow. A hot and dusty journey, even with a large block o f ice in a tin tray on the floor of the com­ partment which marginally eased the discomfort. In those days Mhow was a small town with no civilian European community to speak of other than the District Commis­ sioner and his staff. The large military garrison was located away from the native bazaar area in the cantoonments; the British Infantry Lines being a mile or so from the Indian Army units’ barracks. Although the temperature reached 110 degrees in the hot season, Mhow was generally regarded as a ‘good’ station by Indian standards. Bahadur Haji F. Shaboodeen, to give tie Bevan and Jack Prescott both shot The garrison consisted of a field regi­ ‘Shabo’ his full title, was an impressive several panther. Shooting parties organised ment R.A. armed with 18 pdr. horse- red-bearded character, popular with all by the officers and sergeants messes (each drawn guns (relics of the 1914-18 war), a ranks. had its own ‘shikar’ club) were enjoyable British infantry battalion and an Indian On long route marches the Band and but some times inclined to become Army infantry battalion. (Sepoys with Drums literally ‘played’ an important dangerous when duck came over in large British officers) plus the normal arms and role. The Drums headed the column with numbers and everyone blasted off — services including, most importantly, a the Band two companies back. It was ex­ regardless! British military hospital. The role of the ceptional for anyone to fall out on the line The battalion had a polo team; Jack garrison was primarily one of internal of march. Better to stick it out and try to Prescott, George Springfield and Peter security, but units had to be ready to serve forget the dust, flies and smell o f feet and Smitherman all played. Many officers on the North West Frontier should the sweaty bodies. Anyway the singing kept hunted jackal with the Mhow pack (Capt need arise. one going even if the songs weren’t exact­ Oates of Scott's South Pole Expedition At the time this photo was taken, the ly the padre’s choice! fame was a one-time hunt secretary). outbreak of World War Two was less It was before the days of radio so all in­ Minden Day, Christmas Day, the than two years away. It is a fact, but dif­ ternal communication was in morse code King’s birthday parade were highlights in ficult to believe nevertheless, that 2 Suf­ by key, heliograph, flag and lamp, sup­ the year. Garrison race meetings and folk was still organised, armed and equip­ plemented by field telephone and of gymkhanas, regimental concerts, visits by ped as it had been 20 years earlier in the course the indispensible runner. Peter touring theatrical troups, boxing competi­ ‘Kaiser’s War’. Smitherman was R.S.O. tions and Beating Retreat by the Band and The battalion had no MT (not even a Infantry weapons then were the Lee- Drums provided a welcome change for the CO’s car!). Animal transport (A/T) was Enfield rifle, Lewis gun (LMG), .455 soldiers to warm beer in the wet canteen. the sole means of transport, either in A /T revolver and 12 Vickers heavy machine The occasional earth tremor and the ar­ carts or on pack animals, generally mules. guns carried on mules in the Support PI. rival of the monsoon also relieved the Lt Prescott was Tpt. Officer and a very commanded by Lt Bevan. There were no monotony of barrack life. successful one too in the district transport mortars nor anti-tank weapons. Musketry During its four years in Mhow competitions which 2 Suffolk usually was taken very seriously; the standard of (1935-39) 2 Suffolk was never called out won. shooting was high. in aid of the civil authorities. Life follow­ Senior officers were mounted, everyone Sport featured prominently in the life ed a fixed routine — individual, platoon, else marched. An exception was made in of a soldier in India; nearly everyone took company and battalion training, the case of the ‘regimental followers’ — part in some form of sporting activity. culminating in manoeuvres which always officers’ bearers, grooms, dhobies, Hockey, played on a hard packed earth coincided with the hottest time of the year sweepers, char-wallahs and the regimental pitch was a fast, rather dangerous but and consisted mainly in covering vast contractor’s staff etc., who mostly travell­ very popular game. distances on foot — 30 miles a day in ed independently of the troops in ox- The country round Mhow offered ex­ temperatures of over 100 degrees being drawn carts. The contractor, Khan cellent small and big game shooting. Ber­ unexceptional. Continued Page 29 28 Feature Focus Sheriff in West Belfast By David Keddie Esq., by the men of the Pompadours. some of his team. I had previously ex­ High Sheriff of Essex. I also wanted to be able to leave a more pressed the hope that I might meet as THE Sheriff is the oldest secular dignitary tangible reminder, so I managed to per­ many people from all ranks as possible under the Crown, dating back nearly 1000 suade Sir Derrick Holden-Brown, the and particularly those from my home years, and Is second in the County to the chairman of Allied-Lyons, which also county during my visit. At the same time, Lord Lieutenant. takes in the Romford Brewery, that I I said that under no circumstances did I In days of old they appointed MPs would like to be able to show this in a want my visit to be a pain in the nether (usually themselves), collected taxes ow­ more liquid form! Thanks to the excellent regions because I realised that they had ing to the Crown, had custody of the organisation of Maj Thorogood, 60 dozen more than enough to do without having to Royal Castles, were responsible for cans of bitter and lager accompanied me. look after visiting firemen. military matters and headed the judiciary My visit got off to a rather difficult However, a comprehensive but whirl­ in the County). start at Heathrow as it was snowing at the wind tour had been laid on with time and when one side of the aircraft had customary military precision. This took in been de-iced, the tanker ran out of ap­ A, B and C Companies’ bases and the propriate fluid so I had to accommodate areas for which they were responsible. PERHAPS the most memorable event in my rather large frame between two equal­ Battalion HQ, and most of the bandit my year as the High Sheriff of Essex was ly large men, for an hour on the ground country of West Belfast. Having been a my visit to the 3rd Battalion of the Royal while the British Airports Authority tried member of the TA for more than six years Anglian Regiment in West Belfast. I to find some more de-icing fluid. and done my National Service as a Gun­ wanted to be able to express personally, Eventually I arrived at Aldergrove, ner Subaltern at Detmold, not a million on behalf of the county, our great ap­ where I was whisked into West Belfast to preciation for the splendid job being done MPH and introduced to the Colonel and Continued Page 30

From Page 38 Cambs in East Anglia he was posted to Lt Col W. S. ‘Bertie’ Bevan OBE served In spite of everything the battalion was the Royal West African Frontier Force with 2 Suffolk on the North West Frontier a big and, by-and-large, remarkably hap­ and served in Nigeria. He rejoined I Suf­ and was wounded while attached to 1/19 py family. All ranks (and the families) folk in Jun 44 in Normandy. He won the Hyderabad Regt, on operations against from the CO to the youngest Band Boy MC during the fighting at Tinchebray. Fakir of Ipi's tribesmen. knew everyone else and had no doubt that Twice wounded: in Oct 44 at Nijmegen An early volunteer for parachute 2 Suffolk — the "Old Swedebashers” — while with 4 DLI, and again in Mar 45 troops, he joined 151 (later 156) Para Bn was the best battalion in India. near Bocholt while with 7 RWF during the and went with this unit to the Middle East It is quite exceptional that all four Rhine crossing operations. in 1942. He attended the staff college, young officers pictured above have sur­ Having recovered from his wounds he Quetta, then became DAA&QMG to 50 vived to reach the age of seventy plus. returned to the RWAFF and subsequently Indian Para Bde for the Imphal cam­ How have they fared since 19387 joined the King's African Rifles in 1952 in paign. Dr Peter Smitherman MD certainly had Kenya where he remained until retiring in Repatriated after almost nine years a worse time in the war than the others as 1955. He now lives near Rye in Sussex. continuous overseas service, he was brief­ he was captured in Singapore in February The Prescotts have a long family con­ ly BM to 1 Para Bde before rejoining 1 1942 and spent three years in Japanese nection with the Suffolk Regt. Maj Gen Suffolk in NW Europe as 2IC to Dick prisoner-of-war camps in Siam. G. H. Walker, one of Maj Prescott's Goodwin. He was temporarily command­ He retired in Jan 47 in the rank of forebears, commanded 1 Suffolk during ing the battalion on VE Day, then south major. After qualifying as a doctor he the second Afghan war in 1878. Other of Bremen. practised for a time in London, then join­ relatives have also served in the regiment Returning to India, he was appointed ed the medical department of H.M. and now Maj Jeremy Prescott is carrying an instructor at the Indian Military Prison Service and remained in it till he on the tradition in the Royal Anglian Academy, Dehra Dun, north India where retired. He now lives in Kent. His elder Regiment. he stayed until finally repatriated in Nov brother, the late Col John Smitherman, Ll Col G. T. O. Springfield left Mhow 47. was for many years a member of the Suf­ to become ADC to the GOC Bombay Posted back to I Suffolk in Malaya as folk Reg TA. District. He rejoined 2 Suffolk in early 2IC in 1950 he was Mentioned in Despat­ Maj J. R. B. ‘Percy’ Prescott MC left 1940 in Razmak, on the North West Fron­ ches. He was OC 1 Suffolk Coronation Mhow in early 1939 accompanied by tier as a company commander and saw Parade Party before rejoining the bat­ Peter Smitherman and drove back to service with it in the Arakan during the talion which was then in Trieste keeping England in his open Chevrolet. After Burma campaign. the Jugoslavs and Italians from each many adventures, including making In 1945 he became BM to Brig (later Lt others throats. serious inroads into the British Embassy’s Gen) Dick Goodwin, 214 Bde., 43 Div. in Appointed C O 1 Suffolk in May 1956 in whisky stocks in Kabul, they eventually N.W. Europe. After various staff jobs he BAOR, he took the battalion to Cyprus in had to part company in East Persia. rejoined I Suffolk in Cyprus and served August that year and commanded during Peter, already overdue for a radar course as a Coy Comd during the Eoka emergen­ the Eoka emergency and was made an in the UK, managed to fly back from cy and was Mentioned in Despatches OBE. Tehran; Percy, when he had recovered Returning to the UK he took over com­ His stepson, Richard Thomson briefly from malaria, finally reached England mand of the Depot at Bury St. Edmunds held a commission in the Royal Anglian four months and 10,000 miles after leav­ before assuming command of 4 Suffolk in Regiment. Bertie, having now remarried, ing Mhow. Quite an epic solo drive. 1958. He retired in 1961 and lives at lives in Milford-on-Sea, Hampshire. After a time with 4 Suffolk then 2 Blakeney, Norfolk. W.S.B.

29 Feature Focus

From Page 29 miles from Minden, I therefore found it particularly interesting to note how the Army compared with my day, a genera­ tion ago. It also helped me to make a bet­ ter appreciation of what I saw, but I am not one of these people who after a 24-hour flying visit assumes they are automatically an expert on the Irish prob­ lem. What struck me particularly was the high standard of professionalism. It was also encouraging, after the brickbats thrown at the younger generation today, to note the calibre of the members of the battalion still in their teens and the ex­ cellent response to the demand for qualities of leadership under active service conditions for each ‘brick’ and armoured patrol. I was also extremely impressed with how the battalion, trained for a com­ pletely different role in West Germany, was able to adapt so efficiently to urban guerilla warfare where to relax one’s vigilance for a second could result in a bullet in the back or becoming the victim of a come-on incident. I believe this was attributable not only to the quality of leadership, training and, perhaps most important, morale but also to technical proficiency, helped by the technology now available to good com­ munications (my memories go back to the ghastly 19 and 38 sets), the armoured Land-Rovers; and the key to the whole operation, a good intelligence room. During my briefing, I was accurately told that all hell was about to break loose and, sure enough, this began at the end of The Pompadours' Ex OC B Coy, Maj Graham Duthoit, CSM W 02 Twell and Rover March just after the battalion had left. I Group in Ross Road. hope this was not just a matter of ‘while the cat’s away’ . . . ! SLR’s and two Brownings, not even bat­ levels, based upon mutual respect. Rigid W hat will remain in my memory ting an eyelid. barriers and ‘bull’ may have largely disap­ forever is the image of West Belfast, a Again when on patrol, I found the at­ peared, but in its place is a new profes­ part of the UK where there is actually a mosphere utterly depressing, with the sionalism, coupled with the camaraderie dirty little war taking place, while only a squalor of the Catholic areas, the rotting of a proud battalion, forming part of a mile away in Central Belfast there is a mattresses and other litter in the streets, regiment embodying great traditions. booming city centre, where the IRA might derelict buildings, uncut hedges, ill-dresed The result was that the 3rd Battalion never have existed. West Belfast was more and listless people and not a potential job was able to maintain the peace in West akin to occupied territory, with heavily in sight (except for cleaning up the mess), Belfast during its tour of duty, suffered protected forts, newly-built anti-mortar just endless council estates with no com­ no serious casualties — which was more blast walls and troops only venturing out munity halls, few shops, and hardly a than just good luck — and was able in one in heavily armed patrols. pub. area, to do a job with two platoons which But the most frightening facet of this Walls and ends of buildings were previously required four battalions, never-ending campaign is that terrorism disfigured with obscene graffiti and pro­ although of course the contribution of the seems to have become a way of life rather vocative murals. It was an eerie feeling RUC must not be overlooked. than a means to an end. History is merely moving among a hostile populace, which It must also have been intensely used as the fuel for stoking the flames, had become so used to the army that they frustrating seeing the villains hatching rather than looking towards any ultimate seldom even bothered to shout their evil plots and yet having to leave the solution. obscenities. initiative with the terrorists, because I shall always remember, when visiting Nevertheless, I am convinced that, politics precluded the type of decisive ac­ the OP on the roof of the Divis, waiting however irksome a tour of duty may have tion which any soldier would normally for our relief patrol which had been been in West Belfast, it will have been a like to take. delayed, standing on the top floor watch­ worthwhile experience in helping to weld It was a privilege to meet the officers ing for the lift to arrive. Eventually the the battalion into an even more effective and men of the 3rd Battalion and I shall doors opened and there was a young fighting unit. I particularly noticed the ex­ long remember with pride my visit to teenage girl staring into the barrels of two cellent relationship that existed at all them in West Belfast.

30 5th Battalion If it's spring it must be . IF it’s spring, then it must be the battalion of the Bren and the GPMG Scant atten­ skill-at-arms meeting Such is the seasonal tion was paid to NBC, and ‘overhead pattern of military life cover’ did not appear in SOP’s. All over the country regimental In those days our battalion had com­ magazines are pouring forth stories of panies in Peterborough, Lincoln, what their boys have been up to during Leicester. Chelmsford and Ipswich. Hert- the long winter months, and what they ford came in later as ‘Five Company'. plan for the future Last year's calendars Over the years though, changes were have been studied to ensure that nothing made is missed this year; old instructions have “ YOU can't teach an old dog new tricks” Our role changed a number of times In been re-issued, with only the names — so the saying goes, It is not true of the late 1970s. we were part of an all- changed to protect the lazy. To outsiders, course, but what is certainly true is that Regular Field Force (Brigade), a period and indeed to some on the inside, it may the ‘old dog' has a hatful of tricks and ex­ which some look back on with nostalgia appear that little changes from year to perience all of his own, ready to be put to Geographically the battalion also changed year use; and there you have the strength o f the shape as the new units were formed. Home Service Force, a strong volunteer Perhaps, it is necessary to look back spirit, backed up by a depth of ex­ over a much longer period to see signifi­ New equipments such as Milan, were perience. cant changes. This year our battalion introduced ‘Noddy suits’ became de- This became evident during the two celebrates its 20th anniversary, and on 20 rigeur on exercise and digging a positive year pilot scheme and, as a result, the 5th Jun there is a Celebration Day at the joy Other less welcome changes also oc­ Battalion was given the go-ahead in 1985 Depot, when we gather together and curred to raise 2 HSF Companies based upon welcome back old friends. As more and more demands were made Peterborough (5 Coy) and Chelmsford (6 Reminiscing is fine, but the value of on the TA. the pressures on CO’s Coy). such an occasion lies not just in going mounted Increased training com­ 6 Coy held its inaugural training over fond memories, but also in examin­ mitments, with vast tables of individual meeting in Jul 85, Ex Brave Defender was ing the broad pattern of changes over the and collective requirements gradually only two months away, so the pressure years; picking out the good and bad. and removed from commanders much of the was on. Everyone responded in the best using the lessons so learned as a guide in initiative they enjoyed in the past They tradition of the TA and the majority of the future were gradually reduced to becoming the new company were able to turn out At the time the battalion was formed, filters (and even umbrellas) against the for a shake-down exercise on Stanford the TA was undergoing a massive change deluge of requirements forced on them Trg area at the end of August. Just one that saw, not as an improvement, but from above week later 6 Coy took part in Ex Brave more a kind of pogrom (organised Company commanders, once giants Defender with many of us still strangers massacre) The winding-up of National among men. seemed to have become small to one another, and platoon commanders Service marked the end of what had been cogs in a great machine Now. they should knowing the names of no more than a perhaps, for the Regular Army, an em­ be given back that initiative they once handful of their men The Coy, however, barrassing reliance on amateurs since the had, then we would see them grow to fill immediately pulled together, and not only beginning of the Second World War this vital role was the exercise a success, but also an en­ Whole regiments, many with long and We have come a long way in 20 years joyable experience for all who look part distinguished histories, simply disap- but one thing is quite clear This major exercise over, a period of peared or were reduced to a kind of rump, on absolute standards there can be no consolidation followed. NCOs were ap­ known as Cadres. Their members, many compromise and we must all strive to pointed, individuals' various skills and ex­ still wearing battledress decorated with meet the exacting requirements of a periences identified and brought to the rows of medal, soldiered on with no pay modern battlefield What we need to do, fore and a basic training programme for­ and little equipment however, is to reduce the level o f our mulated to establish an even standard What they did have, however, was en­ 'organising' to a human scale throughout the platoons, refreshing old thusiasm, an ability to motivate others No doubt at the 20th birthday party skills, and in some cases introducing new. and a vast reservoir of experience The some old-timers will shake their heads particularly to those whose previous ex­ majority of the public thought for many some will marvel at the changes and perience had been other than infantry. years after that the TA had been abolish­ others will be struck with just how The HSF has limited number of man ed completely. familiar it all is. Which reminds me. next training days available, therefore it is im­ At first little seemed to have changed year's programme' Chief! Pass me down portant to get the utmost out of every within those units still left One could still last year’s forecast of events, would you. hear the SLR called the 'FN' and and the Tippex! C ontinued Page 32 arguments raged over the relative merits

31 News from the 5th Battalion

On Fri 8 May 1987, at Peterborough, the 5th Battalion was privileged to provide a Guard of Honour for Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester for the inauguration of the electrification of the Peterborough to London railway line. The Deputy Colonel-in-Chief is accompanied on her inspection of No 2 Guard by the CO, Lt Col Robin Greenham, and the Guard Commander, Maj Tim Warr. The day was blessed with glorious sunshine which showed off the Guard found from HQ Coy and 2 (Northamptonshire) Coy, to best effect. (Picture by Peterborough Evening Telegraph).

From Page 31

training weekend, this results in a series of intensive, active and interesting events throughout the year. A high spot of the 1986 training calendar, was an invitation to take part in Ex Yeoman’s Canter held in the Bridgenorth area, for which 6 Coy provided a bridge demolition guard . . . not quite in character with our role, but an excellent opportunity to practice our individual skills and for officers and NCOs to exercise command and establish effective routines. By now the Coy had really got its act together and all ranks were entitled to give themselves a pat on the back for their pro­ fessionalism. We had expected helicopter support during this exercise, but the lie of the land at our bridge made this impossible. However, the Severn Valley Railway Society came to the rescue, providing a steam loco and coaches which, with a bit of imagination, provided a passable alter- Pte Brooks on Ex Brave Defender Continued Page 33

32 News from the 5th Battalion

'Ex Polar Dawn 87 — CSgt Sid Hall and Ptes Neil Smith, Paul Norris and Christopher Wilkins weather the cold. Picture Peterborough Evening Telegraph.

From Page 33 Douglas Inch, who is now 2IC 6 R Also, a word of thanks to the officers and Recruiting was proceeding at a steady Anglian. We wish him every success. men of 1, 3 & 4 Coys who have un­ rate, but a shortage of officers was mak­ reservedly welcomed us into their social ing life difficult, until the end of 86 the His successor also knows a thing or two life and made us feel at home. about Home Defence operations, Maj company had just the OC and one pla­ At the time of writing we are preparing toon commander. This situation was Dennis Haslam TD, who has come to us from 6th Bn to pick up the reins and bold­ ourselves for the battalion Skill-at-Arms- resolved just in time to take full advan­ Meeting, our objectives for this are sim­ ly lead us into our third year and beyond. tage of the autumn TA recruiting cam­ ple, win the HSF Inter Company Trophy, paign which produced sufficient new HSF No report on the birth pangs of the the HSF Inter Platoon Trophy, the In­ volunteers to bring us up to full strength, HSF can be complete without an acknow­ dividual Rifle, Pistol. SMG, Falling Plate our three new officers now making it ledgement of the vital role played by the ...... and why not...... ?? possible to appoint a 2IC to back up the Permanent Staff of our host TA com­ hard pressed company commander. panies, who have responded marvellously • 6 Coy almost achieved their aims at the By coincidence, at the same time, we to the burden of additional administra­ SAAM — the falling plate remained bade farewell to our first OC, Maj tion and training requirements imposed. beyond their grasp.

33 News from the 5th Battalion Down in the jungle . . .

10 Jan 8 6 : 1100 hrs. Two proud, young Royal Anglians stand in front of Howe Barracks Canterbury, ready and eager to fight for their place with the 3rd Bat­ talion, The Queen’s Regiment in the jungles of Belize. At 1701 hrs, 28-year-old Pte Paul Risley and 27-year-old LCpl Terry Mur­ phy are helped onto waiting transport, their bodies shattered and their brains numbed by the events of the day. What remained in their conscious minds however was the knowledge that they had succeeded and that in a few weeks’ time they would be off to Belize. 3 Mar: Pte Risley and LCpI Murphy return to Howe Barracks, minds and bodies honed to the peak of perfection. 4 Mar: They queue for their splendid new blue berets, and cap-badges, musing for a while on the significance of the words ‘Honi soit qui mal y pense’; thoughts which were to return many times during the next three weeks, when their military skills were being taxed to the ex­ treme by porcelain polishing and area cleaning. Pre-embarkation leave with a chance to say farewell to loved ones; Courage, Whitbread, Ind Coope and it’s o ff to Belize! Apr 8 6 : Airport Camp (APC) Belize; our home for the next six months. In the blistering heal of the Belizian sun we receive helpful hints on avoiding sunburn and heat-associated injuries. Two men LCpI Terry M urphy in Belize. trouble getting off the VC10; we couldn’t collapsed and the rest of us get sunburn to the terror induced by a camp sporting fit our grins through the doorway! on the back of our necks. We soon find 17 W O1's! Nov 8 6 : Discharged from the Regular that our training in Howe Barracks was Patrols and field exercises were in fact Army and returned to the TA full of en­ not wasted. Within a few days the bar­ very interesting. The difference between a thusiasm and good war stories. Found racks, recently vacated by 40 Marine patrol in Belize and one in Thetford was that we were now demoted to grade four Commando, are spotless and the about two pints of sweat an hour. We privates and no bounty! The former has perimeter wire gleams in the glare of the learned a great deal from this experience since been rectified and the latter not tropical sun. of extended patrolling; much more fun allowed due to regulations, which I sup­ The next two weeks are taken up with than just a weekend! pose is understandable; cruel but fair! intense physical training, preparing Although we enjoyed the exercises and Before we went, the tour was described ourselves for the arduous patrols to come. patrols, the part of the tour we looked to us by the Adjutant as 'the chance of a Due to the unrelenting heat we are forced forward to most was the R&R. After lifetime', and indeed it proved to be just to drink vast amounts of water which four-and-a-half months in the jungle, that Don’t go if you don’t like hard seriously affects our consumption of America came as a bit of a culture shock; work; don’t go if you’re not prepared to alcohol; a situation from which we were all play and no work. Water consumption get fit, and think very carefully if you’re never able to recover. We also tried the dropped. old men like we were! local beer, which seriously affected our After R&R, water consumption rose The tour was certainly an experience we digestive tracts; a situation from which again as we slogged it out in the jungle will never forget. Hard, often uncomfor­ happily, we were able to recover! This lime, with only a month to go it table and certainly a challenge. Should the We rapidly learned that time off was a seemed easier. Risley endeared himself to opportunity ever come our way again we thing of the past as we fell into the routine the rest of the battalion by winning a six- would probably have to admit that we o f APC As resident infantry company we day leave pass and a return flight to were too old; but we would certainly en­ guarded everything and volunteered for Miami from a £2.30 stake in a raffle. courage you to have a go! everything. Like all true infantrymen we Murphy took his in-country adventure soon found that life on patrol on field- training during this time and spent the • Since the article was written Pte Risley exercises was preferable to life in a ‘civilis­ week meeting some of the other hazards has been promoted to a full corporal with ed’ camp. The dangers from animal and of Belize, including a tiger shark at zero back-dated pay and Pte Murphy has also insect life and possible contact with armed feet! become a full corporal, one better than drug-runners were as nothing compared Oct 8 6 : Returned to the UK and had before he went.

34 6th Battalion Shooting is on target

THE battalion has continued to do well in October saw well over 400 members of The battalion SAAM was held in Col­ both shooting and sporting events. In the the battalion in north Norfolk on Ex Sea chester on 4-5 Apr. The first day’s TARA Non Central Competition, B (Bed­ Dragon, FTX. The enemy, provided by 21 shooting took place in rain, more rain, fordshire) Coy won the Match 3 Gallery SAS, kept everyone very much on the mud and more mud, but everyone (Infantry) the Kolar Cup and also the alert and tested our defences to the full. persevered and all events were completed Match 8 LMG/GPMG (Infantry) the The enemy received a very unpleasant sur­ on time. The following day the rain stop­ Machine Gun Cup, with A (Norfolk) Coy prise when one of their patrols was suc­ ped and the sun came out and the meeting being placed 2nd and C (Suffolk) Coy cessfully ambushed within the first hour ended with an exciting falling plate com­ 3rd. HQ (Suffolk) Coy also won the NBC of the exercise. petition. Match. The first battalion cadre weekend for D (Cambridgeshire) Coy were declared The Permanent Staff, consisting of some time was held at Bodney Camp, Champion Shooting Coy. Prior to the Capt Roger Antolik, CSgt Morley and 21-22 Feb. Cadres were run in first aid. prize-giving, Maj Gen P. W. Graham, CSgt Long were runners-up in the Infan­ NBC, signals, the 84mm MAW and in­ GOC Eastern District, presented CSgt P. try Minor Units Orienteering Champion­ telligence procedures. Personnel not par­ D. R. Brown with the British Empire ships and winners of the Eastern/London ticipating in the cadres, were involved in a Medal and TEMs to Sgt Goddard, Cpl District Regular Minor Unit Orienteering series of Home Defence TEWTS. Overall and Pte Albone. Competition. Since the new year, the battalion has The battalion WRAC cross country been visited by the outgoing Divisional It is with sadness that we announce the team won the Eastern District Cross Brigadier, Brig C. M. J. Barnes, and in death of Pte S. D. Davies of A (Norfolk) Country Championships for TA women the space of three days, (3,4,5 Apr) the Coy, who was killed in a road accident at and the men were runners-up in the TA Director of lnfantry, Maj Gen Sir David Dereham, Norfolk on 10 Dec 8 6 . men's team event. The WRAC orienteer­ Thorne, the Commander o f 54 Inf Bde, On a happier note, Sgt Taggart, who ing team from B (Bedfordshire) Coy, were Brig P. R. G. Williams and the GOC fell while abseiling on Stanage Edge in winners of the Eastern/London District Eastern District, Maj Gen P. W. Graham. May 86 and who was mentioned in the last TA WRAC Orienteering Competition and Col J. C. Holman, Divisional Colonel issue of Castle, was finally discharged in addition, Cpl Shaw WRAC, became The Queen’s Division also visited on the from hospital on 30 Jan 87. We wish him the TA women’s champion. 13 Apr. a full recovery.

Bracing Bodney in February. The Commanding Officers TEWT

35 News from the 6th Battalion

Above: Members of the battalion try their hand at gassing young conifers during the cadre weekend in February.

* * *

Above right: Background activity on the NBC Cadre — worm racing!

* * *

Right: The Mayor of North Bedfordshire, Cllr W. Astle, presents TA Non Central Shooting Medals to B (Bedfordshire) Coy's SMG team of Cpl Twidale, Pte Huk WRAC and Pte Marshall.

36 News from the 6th Battalion

Pte Collinson WRAC receives the Champion Company Shield to r D (Cambridgeshire) Coy, fro m the GOC Eastern District during the Battalion Skill At Arms weekend.

CSgt P. D R Brown of A (Norfolk) Coy receives his British Empire Medal from the GOC.

Winners of the TA Non Central Competition SLR (Gallery Range) Match were B (Bedfordshire) Coy Receiving the Pte Albone of B (Bedfordshire) Coy receiving his Territorial Kolar Cup from the GOC Eastern District is Pte McPoland. Efficiency Medal from the GOC Eastern District, Maj Gen P W. Graham CBE at the Bn SAAM 7th Battalion Life goes on after camp W HEN the training cycle forecast is reviewed there is a tendency to think that the whole world ends after camp, be it in the UK or Germany. When however, the period from October to March is viewed in retrospect it seems that everybody within the battalion has been working twice as hard, attending twice as much, and hopefully learning twice as much. Various landmarks have now been achieved within the battalion, one of the most notable being that we are now a 120% recruited (98% trained soldiers) and a record 489 qualifying for bounty. This means that exercises are more satis­ fying with a large complement of all ranks turning up, that our own selection process can become more refined and produce soldiers with more commitment to the TA. This also cuts down on the dreaded wastage rate.

These figures have not been achieved by accident or instantly, but by careful preparation and planning which began a considerable time ago. This resulted in a detailed analysis of where our recruiting was weak and a targeting of that area. Officer recruiting has not been neglected. We are now in the fortunate position of having almost all our subaltern vacancies filled, and 17 officer cadets under training, although we are still looking for elusive captains. If anybody out there would like to come and see how 7th Royal Anglian achieve its motto of ‘Perfection and Fun’; please ring us.

It is obviously a waste of time if having received the initial approach, the prospec­ tive recruits are not kept interested, and to achieve this we now have a fully formed RRTT working from battalion HQ under Maj Alan Hemmings. This unit, working in close harmony with our new recruit module system and new type RISC, pro­ mises even better results for the future.

38 News from the 7th Battalion

"How should I know where they are?" Sgt Gordon Hooke of the Recce PI with LCpI Boll and Pte Reed scanning SPTA for signs of anybody.

After camp, we were soon into the in­ D and LDY Company attended, for the D (Northamptonshire) Coy were finally dividual training cycle which, in addition first time, the Centurian Package at Hyde overtaken in the cooking competition Ex­ to the usual drill night training, saw the and this was acclaimed an outstanding ercise Tasteful Tiger by B (Lincoln) Coy. battalion at Beckingham Camp for the success by all who took part. At the same time our driving skills con­ bounty weekend. As is customary, the tinued to improve and were tested at Exer­ Christmas dinner was held and served by Pre-camp recces were carried out by the cise Mechanical Tiger, won by LCpI Peter the Field Officers and Senior NCOs to be CO Lt Col D. K. Harris, Maj Peter Overton and Pte Andrew Price of HQ followed by a battalion smoker, including Barnes, Maj Williams and OC HQ Coy Coy in the Land Rover section, and by home-produced sketches ranking from Maj Lawrence Chell. Cpl Billard and Pte Michael Sparks of awful to reasonable! All however were HQ Coy providing the best Bedford team. outshone by Madam NBC the stripper. The work-up training to Exercise Keystone began in February at the bat­ B Coy helped the GPO and police by talion CPX, closely followed by Exercise lending them 4 tonne vehicles and Land Polar Dawn, a helicopter exercise at Rovers to gain access to the outback STANTA where the battalion played villages of Lincolnshire during the snow. enemy. News from the 7th Battalion

B Coys "Cook truck" endeavouring to produce a quick brew up for its Company Headquarters.

All companies carried out intensive To improve standards and set a target and the inter platoon competition. shooting training, for the battalion small for personal achievements, a best com­ We congratulate B Coy on their out­ arms competition, the overall winners pany competition was instigated in 1985 standing victory, particularly as the com­ being B (Lincolnshire) Coy led by WO2 incorporating shooting, driving, cooking, petition is aimed at assessing a company (CSM) Venn. drill, camp attendance, bounty qualifiers over a whole year and the slightest drop in News from the 7th Battalion

standards can ensure they lose the com­ number one burners, drive vehicles etc. petition . The evening comprised a Regimental guest night attended by 123 people, in­ All units have study weekends which cluding the retiring secretary of East are of great value. This year in addition to Midlands TAVRA Col Steven Clark who the normal study, a weekend would be we had the pleasure of dining out. devised to involve wives, girlfriends etc. The first of these was held two years ago Also dined out were our previous 21C, and the second was held recently at the Maj Fred Honnor and our QM, Maj Willoughby Hotel near Leicester. Derek Edwards (who handed over to Maj David Greenfield). We welcomed on com­ The theme of the weekend was the very missioning, 2Lt P. Starcevic (D Coy), 2Lt relevant FIBUA/DIBUA and the host of Mike Prebble, Lt P. M. Slinger and 2Lt outstanding speakers contributed the Shaw. most interesting and thought-provoking lectures. Our principal speakers were our A first at Tigers Broad was a display by Deputy Colonel, Brig P. P. D. Stone, Mr our newly formed Drums Platoon. We Roger Freeman MP — Parliamentary look forward to Tigers Broad 3 in 1989. Under Secretary of State (MOD) and Lt Col Colin Wilson TD RAMC, to name just a few. Lt Barber B (Lincoln) Coy doing The supporting programme for the what comes naturally, Exercise Polar wives included shooting infantry weapons Dawn. and visits to local drill halls to cook on

"Is this the way you hold it?" Pte Odgen. Sgt McKay — HQ Coy.

39 News from the 7th Battalion

Left to right; Sgt Smith RA, Dagley, LCpI Taylor, Brig P. P. D. Stone, Lt Col D. K. Harris, Dmr Bloxham , C apt S. J. M a rrin e r, Dmr McBurney, Pte Frisby, Dm Maj Stamp. Showing the flag

2LT CHRIS Coward of D Coy has recent­ ly returned from an 85 day adventure of a lifetime. Sponsored by the TA, he joined the Pacific leg of Operation Raleigh based at Manapouri on South Island, New Zealand. He lived for three months in a small tent, existing on dehydrated food and working on various scientific, community and adventure projects In tropical condi­ tions. One of his more Interesting tasks was to learn how best to hatch and rear the Takahe, a rare species of flightless bird close to extinction. The aim was to deny this timid bird any human contact so as to give it the only possible chance of sur­ vival. This was largely achieved by using an exact replica of a mother-bird and a tape recording of her genuine bird- language together with a lot of patience and perseverance. Another, more strenuous, task was to construct a substantial fence around the nature reserve near Manapouri, which In­ volved digging a three-kilometer trench under scorching conditions of 90 degrees 2Lt Chris C ow ard or more, set against a punishing dead-line for completion. others and to thoroughly enjoy the com­ While working on these projects, Chris radeship, humour and fun. lived closely with 141 other selected young He found the New Zealanders to be ex­ men and women from Hong Kong, tremely friendly and hospitable. One of Singapore, the United States, Canada, his more enduring memories is of their Australia and Japan. The rich cultural ex­ kindness, warmth and more relaxed way change of ideas and ways of achieving the of life. Now that he is back in the more various aims made the challenges and sombre climate of the UK, he ponders the hard work all the more interesting and thought of going back to settle there one worthwhile. day .. . which all goes to prove what great Chris reflects that his TA training and adventures can be found with a little in­ military know-how enabled him to live itiative, plenty of drive and with the sup­ Sgt Tillyard Mortar PI — first across the and survive under the most demanding port and sponsorship of the Territorial line in the Steelback Trophy conditions rather better than most of the Army.

40 News from the 7th Battalion

THE battalion small arms meeting was future. LDY Coy — Champion Coy at the held at Colchester and the results were: A finale to the evening was a charity leg battalion SAAM. Champion PI - 8 PI LDY Coy, Champion wrestling competition where £27 was Company - HQ Coy, Winners Section raised for the Guide Dogs for the Blind. Match - Def PI, Winners GPMG pairs - In the Eastern District/London District Recce PI (Cpl Mann and LCpl Marriot), Orienteering Championship the outright Moving Tgt - 9 PI LDY Coy, Winners winner was CSgt Dick Bonnet, PSI LDY SMG - 10 PI D Coy, Winners Falling Coy. In the Army half marathon WO1 Plate - 10 PI D Coy. Individuals: Best (RSM) G. P. Halewood completed in a Junior and Best SLR - Pte Baillie B Coy, personal best time of 1.28.45 and, more Best W O/Sgt - W 02 Venn B Coy, Best importantly, the RSM was sponsored by Officer - Maj Hemmings Bn HQ, Moving the battalion and has raised money for a Target - Sgt Phillips 10 PI D Coy, Best guide dog for the blind. Well done RSM. SMG - LCpl Cooper 11 PI D Coy, Best Lt Col Harris has handed over com­ Pistol Shoot - Maj P. Barnes. mand to Lt Col G. I. G. Brett. We wish Lt In the evening a Regimental guest night Col Harris all the best in his position as was held where we had the pleasant but Deputy Commander 49 Inf Bde and on sad occasion of dining out our present CO his promotion to colonel. We welcome Lt Col D. K. Harris, and Brig Greenway. Col Gordon and wish him all the best in We wish them both all the best for the his new appointment.

HAVING battled through to the final, HQ Coy took on B Coy 3 WFR in the EDist TA football challenge cup at Simp­ son Barracks, Northampton on 14 Dec 86. It was a cold but fine day with the pitch in good shape, if a little heavy. From the outset it was obvious that the teams were evenly matched and a tremendous battle ensued. Twice B Coy took the lead only to be pulled back level by the Royal Anglians. HQ Coy were living up to their forefathers nickname of “The Tigers” . It was all square at full time and another 30 minutes were required to settle the issue. The fitness of HQ Coy, gradual­ ly told and for the first time they took the EDIST soccer champions — HQ Coy: standing — WO2 Brian Lee (manager), Sgt lead and held it to the end. John Shand, Sgt Steve Poulson, WO1 Gordon Halewood, LCpI Andy Marriott, Sgt All agreed it was a exciting match to Dick Stamp. Middle row: Pte Pete Bloxham, Sgt Fred Beaumont, LCpI Peter watch. Brig. Williams, Comd 54 Bde Overton, Pte Paul Johns, Sgt Parkinson. Front row: Pte Paul Fox, Pte Stu Coley, presented the shields and the winners cup Sgt Dick Robinson. Pte Wayne Derry, Sgt Fred Dymond, Sgt Brian Robertson. to a jubilant HQ Coy.

41 News from the 7th Battalion Special role for HSF

EARLY in 1985 7 R Anglian were tasked with the raising of a Home Service Com­ pany (HSF) which would have two pla­ toons at Leicester and one at Lincoln. By April the Embryo was established and the company continued to recruit. By the end of 1986 they had reached 90% of established strength of 95 all ranks, com­ prising of a company commander, three platoon officers and 91 other ranks. The role of the HSF in time of emergen­ cy is the guarding of key points such as airfields, port installations, ordnance depots, communication centres and any other site of national importance against saboteurs, specialist enemy troops or their agents. A role of interest and one in keep­ ing with the experience and commitment of members. An HSF Coy can recruit fit men bet­ ween the ages of 20 and 50 providing they have served a minimum of two years with the armed forces. Members can remain with the HSF until aged 60, provided they remain fit. Everyone, irrespective of previous rank, enlists as a private soldier and that may be their ceiling for 10 years. Comradeship and a sense of continuing purpose far outweigh rank consciousness. While the HSF is a part of the TA, its Evening training is conducted at pla­ FORMER army private Richard Lee has commitment is very much less, amounting toon level and includes map reading, tac­ Just received his medal for campaign ser­ to no more than nine days training per tics, .22 shooting, skill-at-arms, signals, vice in Borneo . . . 24 years late. year. Evening drinks are usually held once personnel and vehicle searching pro­ Pte Lee should have received a General a fortnight. A small bounty is payable — cedures and other basic infantry training, Service Medal after six months’ duty in £40 for the first year and £100 for each including first aid. Borneo in the early 60s during his six subsequent year, provided that training A brief (not always) session at the bar years service with the 1st Battalion The commitments are fulfilled and a profi­ terminates the evening. Royal Leicestershire Regiment. He recent­ ly Joined the HSF based at Leicester when ciency certificate is acquired. Army rates New entrants (we don't call them of pay cover training days and attendance the mystery of the missing medal was recruits) undergo a period of training resurrected, thanks to his OC, Maj Albert allowance and travelling expenses are paid under a junior NCO to rekindle old skills for drill nights. Pryce-Howells. and update them in skill-at-arms and to The medal was ceremonially presented As its first major outing E Coy took familiarise them with a role of the HSF. part in Exercise Brave Defender in Sep 85 to Pte Lee by Maj Pryce-Howells at the When they are considered proficient they TA Centre, Ulverscroft Road, Leicester. and obtained a certain amount of recogni­ then become a full member of a platoon tion by capturing three members of the and continue training under the direction special forces by ambushing them in the of a platoon commander and sergeant One could not expect anything but high GDA. A later example was Exercise Spar- (most likely a former Regular WO). morale in such a Company. rowhawk, again a defence exercise against E (HSF) Coy would very much a special forces group. On this occasion The majority of men in E Coy fall in welcome former R Anglian soldiers. Do four enemy were captured following well- the 35-45 age group. A large number have make contact! laid ambushes and dogged defence. seen active service in Malaya, Borneo, Shooting plays a prominent part in Cyprus, Northern Ireland and some in training. In Sep 86 the Coy joined the rest Aden and Suez. Many are serving Amstrad Society of 7 R Anglian on annual camp at War­ together for a second time and, in one or cop, spending two days on the field firing two instances, even for the third time — AN Amstrad Society has been formed to ranges and then joining the social side! this all goes towards having an immense provide a forum for the exchange of On a memorable weekend last autumn feeling of comradeship. ideas, help with problems and a united Lt Gen Sir John Akehurst was invited to There is a wide range of civilian oc­ voice to deal with software houses and 15 (Lincoln) Platoon’s exercise on the cupations including bank managers, service masters. Any servicemen requiring Lincolnshire Wolds. That too was against firemen, solicitors, miners, company details should write to: Service Amstrad the SAS. Present result - special forces (1) directors, labourers, supervisors at all Society, Leros TA Centre, Sturry Road, home team (2). levels, builders, engineers and caretakers. Canterbury.

42 Depot Queen's Division

'Training the Trainer 1

LIFE at the Depot continues apace and Two platoons of ex-Junior Soldiers (JS) the most regular commitment is the run­ begins to gather momentum as SCAMF have also passed out since Nov 86 and ning of TA Recruit Cadres of which 14 figures released for the coming six months these have included 14 Royal Anglians. are held each year. show that the training teams will be Ex-JS are trained by D Coy which also Altogether, a total of 216 Royal employed to capacity. has the additional tasks of training Drum­ Anglian soldiers from our TA battalions Over the last nine months any spare mers, as well as running a large and varied have been trained at the Depot in the training capacity has been utilized by tak­ programme of cadres, mostly for the TA. period Dec 86 - Mar 87. The D Coy team ing on additional training commitments The system for the training of Drum­ is headed by Maj Peter Ferrary, recently within the Depot and giving external mers has completely changed recently and arrived and the current Regimental ‘rep’ assistance to both Regular and TA bat­ the Depot is now running the First of a at the Depot, and includes other Royal talions. new six-months Drummers Specialist Anglians — Lt Tim Smith, CSgt Smith, ‘Training the Trainer’ has also been the Courses designed to produce men who are Sgt Mason, Cpls Kretay, Lofthouse, theme here in recent months. A number highly skilled in music as well as in Dodd, Saywell and Richards. of internal cadres have been run and a machine gun drills; 15 are currently being The most important training develop­ series of TEWTs (for PI Comds and trained, amongst whom are six Royal ment at the Depot has been the arrival of NCOs) organised, which have been of Anglians, who will complete their training SA80. All PS have now converted to the considerable value and very useful in on 1 Oct 87. individual weapon (IW) and were able to keeping the Permanent Staff (PS) on their The introduction of this new phase 3 put the rifle through its paces at the Depot toes! course means that the Depot will be able SAAM on 14 Mar. This was a hard fought Since the last edition, six adult Recruit to parade its own Corps of Drums — competition fired in perfect conditions, in Platoons have passed through the Depot although not until the latter stages of the which HQ Coy B team which included the but these have included a relatively low Drummers training. CO, Lt Col Michael Goldschmidt, and the number of Royal Anglian recruits, 20 to The other major training commitment RSM, just pipped D Coy A team to be exact. This dearth of Royal Anglians is of the Depot, and specifically D Coy’s, is become Depot team champions. Revenge a good indication that our Regular bat­ running courses for the TA. Since Dec 86, was sweet however, when D Coy A beat talions are well manned and maintaining a these have included five TA Recruit HQ Coy B in the falling plate competi­ high retention rate. The number of Royal Cadres, two TA Potential NCO Cadres, tion! Highest score of the day in the rifle Anglians to be trained over the next six one TA Platoon Sergeants’ Cadre and a match went to the CO who, having months totals 110. TA Potential Officer Cadre. But by far months before offered a bottle of cham­ pagne to the best shot, was gracious enough to present it to the runner-up! The Depot now has a shooting team in training for EDSAAM (and hopefully RASAAM) and hopes to feature pro­ minently in the prize table. The new rifle has proved an instant suc­ cess and can only be described as a marvellous weapon, easy to handle and fire — and accurate! The PS are now con­ verting to the light support weapon (LSW) in preparation for the training of recruits, The whole syllabus will be IW and LSW with effect from 17 Aug, and the first passing out parade with SA80 will be on 17 Dec. Currently, soldiers destined for SA80 battalions will be given a ‘bolt on’ package on the weapon before leaving here; the reverse will apply with the SLR and GPMG post Dec 87. To match the new weapons, the Depot has also received the new combat helmet and adopted the teaching of the fire team concept to all new recruits. Keeping apace with these developments in equipments and tactical thinking, the Depot’s infrastructure continues to im- GOC EDIST Maj Gen P. W. Graham inspecting the Depot Quarterguard In the Continued Page 44 foreground. Cpl Lemmon and Cpl Coulson, both ex-1 st Battalion.

43 Depot

HQ Coy B team — team champions DEPSAAM. Royal Anglians from left to right Cpl Havercroft ex-Poachers, CO, Cpl Schuchart ex-Poachers. From Page 43 ship than its external appearance might our local MP, Sir Anthony Grant, and the prove. The building of recruits accom­ suggest. Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Mr modation blocks is making good progress Within the Warrant Officer’s and Michael Bevan among others. and the two blocks will be completed by Sergeants’ Mess, a magnificent display Military visitors to the Depot are many summer 88. This is part of a phased pro­ board recording the VCs, won by all the and each passing out parade itself (ap­ gramme which will eventually include the parent regiments of the Queen’s Division proximately every four weeks) is taken by refurbishment of all accommodation, new has been erected. The display, unveiled by an inspecting officer of some rank and training classrooms and lecture rooms Brig Charles Barnes, of 144 VC winners is status! In the last five months these have and a new armoury something of which all members of the included the outgoing GOC of EDIST, Our camp church situated in an old Division can be proud. Maj Gen Charles Ramsey, on 5 Feb, his Nissen hut has been fully, and quite The Cpls Mess have also erected an successor, Maj Gen Peter Graham, on 5 beautifully, refurbished internally and is honours board which details all the Mar, Cols Bob Acworth on 18 Dec 86 and now a much more dignified place of wor- Gallantry and Meritorious Service awards lan Cartwright on 19 Mar 87 (Deputy won by members of the Queen’s Division Colonels of the Queen’s Regiment and since its formation. This was also unveiled RRF respectively) and Maj Gen Sir David by Brig Charles. Thorne on 2 Apr 87. More recently, the parade on 16 Apr was taken by the new The Depot continues to make an impact on the local community and, security Divisional Colonel, Col John Holman. While on ‘personalities’, there have states permitting, many of the Depot been some changes at Bassingbourn facilities are available to the public during among members of the Regiment: the week and especially at the weekends. Postings Out: Brig C. M. J. Barnes, the Nevertheless, their understanding of outgoing Divisional Brigadier, has taken what we do here and our problems is up his appointment as Comd 43 Inf Bde often poor and to counter this a series of having been dined out of the Officers’ Bassingbourn briefing days have been Mess on 28 Feb. CSgt Lambert to HQ organised; local dignitaries and communi­ Dusseldorf Station on the LSL. W02 ty leaders are invited to spend a morning (TQMS) Sykes pending discharge and on­ at the Depot where they are briefed, given to private enterprise. CSgt Stark to HM a chance to see some of the training and Prison Service. Sgt Dixon to the 1st Bat­ entertained to lunch. talion. LCpl Giles to the Poachers. The first of these days was held on 15 Postings In: Maj P. M. L. Ferrary as OC Jan; visitors included the High Sheriff D Coy. CSgt Smith from the Pom­ (designate) of Cambridgeshire, Sir Alex­ padours. CSgt Threadwell and CSgt ander Reid and the chairman of the South Scholes both from the Vikings. W02 Cambridgeshire District Council, Mr S. Armes has transferred to the RAPC and is Cpl Kretay tries out the SA80 IW during T. C. Symonds. A second briefing day now Service Funds Accountant at this conversion trailing. was held on 9 Apr which was attended by Depot.

4 4 JIB and Affiliated Regiments

By JLDR Wilkinson S Coy JIB A FEW days after returning from the A n ­ dorran skiing trip Lt Fell, my platoon commander, called me into his office to offer me a place on an Outward Bound course in Scotland. It took me at least tw o seconds deliberation before I accepted, and ten days after I found myself heading north by train. When I arrived it was like a new start in the Army. I was put into a room with eight others, of whom six were ‘bloody’ civvies! They were fairly shy and it to o k two days before they would talk to us. The activities started in a fast and furious manner. We worked from 06.45 to 2 1 0 0 every day, spending a large amount of time walking in the fells a n d mountains in the area, covering up to 2 0 kms a day. Other activities included rock- climbing, canoeing, abseiling and ropes course with a simulated parachute jum p. The instructors tried to maintain or im ­ prove fitness by organising a stretcher race in the mornings. We all did orienteer­ ing courses and a fell run. As the c o u rse came to an end I knew I had achieved a Pte Gilbert with his GOCs Commendation. From left: Lt Col M. K. Goldschmidt great deal and had my Army training to CO, Pte Gilbert, Maj Gen P. W. G ra ham GOC EDIST and M r Kirk w hose life Pte thank for that. It was a good, fun course Gilbert saved. and I would recommend it to anyone .

Maj Gen Sir David Thorne presents Pte Graves with prize Maj Gen Sir David Thorne presents Cpl Brown with his for best SLR shot in Salerno Platoon Pte Graves also won prize for best section in the CO's inter section competition. the prize for Best Royal Anglian shot.

45 JIB and Affiliated Regiments

M em bers of 1Sec 2PI, w in n e rs o f the inter lection assault course com petition. Royal A nglians are: JLDR Back from 2nd Bn (top righ t) and JLDR Butcher from 3rd Bn (bottom left).

Salamanca Coy out in the snow

BEING by the sea Salamanca Coy receiv­ ed only a little snow compared to the rest of the country but nevertheless all drivers found themselves driving RCT am­ bulances and Land-Rovers around Kent rescuing old people and cattle! We escaped from the snow of southern England during January for ten days to the snows of Andorra where the battalion held its own ‘Snow-Queen’. The juniors impressed the instructors and civilians with their enthusiasm and the Permanent Staff with their attempts to break land speed records. We got used to the Spanish saying “ They English is all crazee!” Lt Fell (Poachers) and Cpl Millwood (Pompadours) are taking 16 juniors to Portugal for three weeks to teach them some climbing, among them ten potential Royal Anglians. They have both indented for huge amounts of sun-tan lotion and are said to be taking several large beach towels each! The weather is starting to improve and soon the sea will be used again for sea canoeing, wind-surfing and the early morning dips. Sgt Mann has joined the company from the Poachers and has now settled in. We have managed to get people away on courses and Lt Fell, Cpl Munroe and Cpl Sinar (Poachers) have been on an APTC, BOBC Norway skiing and senior Brecon respectively.

Cadet Sergeant-Major Matthew Stone of 32 Coy ACF (badged Royal Anglian) receiving the President's Award for the outstanding cadet in the Greater London TAVRA area in 86-87 from Field Marshall Lord Bramall at the TAVRA annual meeting in March.

46 JIB and Affiliated Regiments WE were delighted to see Lt Col J. P. O'Brien when he visited England in May. The Colonel currently commands our af­ filiated 3rd Battalion Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly’s Own) and Northland, RNZIR and was over on business. On 6 May he visited the 6th Battalion HQ for a drill night and a discussion of mutual TA problems and he is pictured exchanging plaques with Lt Col Tony Taylor. The next day he called at RHQ where he visited the Suffolk Museum and presented RHQ with a plaque. He had also hoped to present a four-pound can­ nonball which was originally fired in sup­ port of the 58th Regiment at Ohaewae in New Zealand in Jul 1846. Unfortunately the post did not keep up with him, but the beautifully mounted trophy arrived the following week and is now proudly displayed at RHQ. We enjoyed his visit and look forward to an item for Castle on the past activities of the 12th and 58th in New Zealand and with current news of 3 RNZIR.

ON 25 Feb W02 George Boss decided to leave the Army after 27 years service. After reliving most of this time in the Fox public house he was given a fine decanter to adorn his home! We wish him lots of luck and thank him for all he did. Now it’s about those skeletons in the garages on the airfield . . .!! During March the RIT hosts CCF field days and this year was no exception. More than 300 cadets from Aldenham (twice), Rugby, Haileybury, Berkhamsted, Kimbolton and St Albans having visited. They have all seen the SA80 and the LSW and most members of the RIT can now teach the basics to cadets on both weapons. We aim to take them on shows during summer show season. All RITs are now preparing for this and once again we are crying out for good photographs of ac­ tion on the Rock, life in Celle and the return to Minden/Op Banner Tour. The 2nd Battalion are to host a group of cadets from Oundle between 12-18 Jul and we hope the 1st Battalion will be receiv­ ing cadets from Rugby School in late August. In addition we have more than 37 potential officers wishing to visit the three Regular battalions this year! This year we would like the assistance of any of our potential officers who are keen lo play cricket for the Regiment and possibly join a tour to Gibraltar (7-14 Jul). Dates for the diary: Sat 23 May v Bancrofts (H) 1400 Sun 24 May v Harrow (H) 1400 Sun 14 Jun v Haileybury (A) 1400 Sun 21 Jun v Felsted (H) 1400 Sat 27 Jun v Uppingham (A) 1400 Sat 4 Jul v Greshams (A) 1130 Sun 5 Jul v Oundle (H) 1400 Wed 8 Jul v Framlingham (H) 1130 All home matches are to be played at Bassingbourn Barracks. Anyone who is interested in playing should contact the RCO at RHQ. Finally, we congratulate Stamford School CCF on winning the log race. As in 1985, they were hotly pursued by Berkhamsted School. The RCO presented the prizes on 27 Feb The winning team of the UKLF CCF/ACF orienteering 87. We hope that a photograph may emerge from the CCF at championships 1986 in Achray Forest near Stirling. Back row: some time. Cdt C. Church. Cdt A. Johnson. Cdt W. Womersley. Front row: Cdt T. Johnson, Cdt C. Battye. JIB and Affiliated Regiments 'Hard life in Bermuda'

FOR once the often glibly used comment “hard life in was very successful and for the first time the women recruits Bermuda” has had a ring of truth as the country emerges from followed the same basic programme as the men. what many claim is perhaps the worst winter for 40 years. Shortly after the conclusion of Recruit Camp, A and then B True, the temperature seldom dipped below about 55 degrees, Coy deployed to Jamaica for overseas training each company nor was there snow, but very high winds and almost continual, staying for two weeks. This also was very successful and we were sometimes torrential, rain made for difficulties and a certain fortunate to be well supported by Capt Edmonson-Jones from amount of frustration. However, happily the worst now seems the Poachers and W02 Smith, Sgt’s Love and Huggins from the past and the sun is making more frequent appearances. Vikings. W02 Smith, who ran a cadre for the Recce Platoon, is Since the last issue of Castle there have been two changes in now confirmed to be joining the Bermuda team in Jan 88. the LSP team: Maj Alan Deed replaced Maj David Wright as With the tourist season in full swing and the roads and beaches staff officer while WO1 (RSM) Geoffrey Wilcox has taken over becoming ever more crowded we look forward to going to from W 02 Brian Bear. W 02 Bill Dowling will return to the UK Canada in July for the PNCOs cadre camp; and then leave. in August and W02 Fenn, from the Viking’s will replace him. Perhaps it isn’t such a hard life! Despite the weather it has been a busy period for the Regi­ ment. Two major changes in the established training organisa­ tion have been introduced. First, we no longer have a permanent DIARY DATES training company. Starting this year each of A, B and C will take it in turn to be training company as a new intake of recruits join. 20 Jun 5th Bn 20th anniversary , Bassingbourn This means that instead of recruits being split up among two 28 Jun Essex reunion, Warley principal rifle companies at the end of their initial training year they will now stay together, as a company for their full three Royal Tigers Weekend years of service. This policy will hopefully provide for better 4-5 Jul Northampton reunion, Northampton training continuity and a greater sense of comradeship among 11-12 Jul TA SAAM Bisley the soldiers. 1-2 Aug Suffolk reunion. Bury St. Edmunds The other change is that two of our three LSP PSIs have now 11-12 Sep Golf Flempton been withdrawn from the rifle companies to provide a centralised 27 Sep R Norfolk reunion training team responsible for updating instruction material and R Lincoln reunion providing support to whichever company requires it. Bermudian PSls have taken their places in the companies so the training 3 Oct Past & Present Dinner capability continues to be enhanced. 6 Nov Regimental Council and Regimental Dinner At the beginning of the year the Regiment, as usual, ran 15 Nov Beds & Herts Remembrance Day Recruit Camp for two weeks, inducting some 217 soldiers. This

48 Regimental Association Royal Anglians, your association needs your help and support

THE letter on page 8 has prompted an by the appropriate Royal Anglian area all associations know, when a soldier article on the aims and activities of the headquarters. Presidents meet periodical­ leaves the army, initially he has other Regimental Association, as clearly they ly with the Colonel of The Regiment and priorities — perhaps a home to establish are not fully understood by all new the chairman of The Royal Anglian Regi­ or a new career to forge. This has been members. ment Association to discuss matters of highlighted over recent years by the late It is important that we do understand mutual interest. influx to county associations of ex the reasons behind the organisation if we National Servicemen who now want to re­ are to overcome the problems arising • The Royal Anglian Regiment Associa­ establish old links. from our extensive regimental area and tion is an organisation to which all serving In the same way we hope that ex Royal the large number of regiments from and retired Royal Anglians belong and Anglians will, in due course, return to the whom The Royal Anglian Regiment is which is responsible mainly for Royal fold. With this in mind, every soldier is descended. Anglian matters. The association’s seen before leaving his battalion and given Each of our founder regiments main­ general committee meets annually under details of county associations, RHQ tained associations for the benefit of their its president, currently Col Peter Badger, follow this up with a letter and area old comrades and it was agreed in 1979 to decide policy and the major distribu­ secretaries follow up at local level, provid­ that these associations, being integral tion of funds, but the benevolent sub­ ed they receive the correct address. committee meets as required at RHQ to parts of The Regiment, should join with This is not yet producing the results we deal with day to day benevolent cases. the county branches of The Royal would wish, and any ideas for improve­ Funds, which originally came from our Anglian Association to form joint county ment would be welcome, but personal founder regiments and are now sup­ associations, and that members should contact from existing members at county plemented by The Day’s Pay Scheme, are benefit equally with those of The Royal branch level will continue to form the used mainly to help serving and former Anglian Association. Their titles reflect basis for success and should be fostered. this amalgamation: members of the Royal Anglian Regiment, The Royal Norfolk Regiment Association its founder regiments and their families There are also success stories. The W ar­ and The Royal Anglian Regiment who are in need, and to help maintain the rant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Past and Association (Norfolk). 36 regimental cottages available for old Present Club is thriving, as is the Officers’ The Suffolk Regiment Association and soldiers which are owned by founder Club with its dinner and recently started The Royal Anglian Regiment Association regiments but available to Royal annual cocktail party. A Bassingbourn (Suffolk & Cambridgeshire Branch). Anglians. Reunion for all ranks is to be introduced The Royal Tigers Association, The Royal The Royal Anglian Association also in 1988 which we hope will prove attrac­ Leicestershire Regiment and Leicester­ makes a central grant to the Army tive to all past and present members of the shire branch The Royal Anglian Regi­ Benevolent Fund (ABF) each year on Regiment and its founder regiments. Care ment. behalf of itself and the seven county must however be taken, as too many 10th Foot Royal Lincolnshire Regimental associations which, with grants from events organised both centrally and by Association, affiliated to The Royal other regiments in the Army, forms a county associations could be counter­ Anglian Regiment. major part of ABF funds available for productive. The Northamptonshire Regiment benevolence. The Royal Anglian Associa­ The success of the association depends Association and The Royal Anglian Regi­ tion also makes an annual grant to each of on county joint associations and on en­ ment Association (Northamptonshire) our county associations to help cover couraging new members to join. For branch. small benevolent grants, helps with any many years devoted groups, mainly from The Royal Anglian Regiment Bedford­ cases referred to it by those associations founder regiments, have managed shire & Hertfordshire Association. as being too large for their residual funds, association affairs: the best interests of The Royal Anglian Regiment Essex, and deals with all Royal Anglian both our founder regiments and The Association. benevolence. The whole is managed by Royal Anglian Regiment will be served by This joint approach was adopted so as benevolence committees at county and ensuring that new members join who will to maintain local connections with our regimental level backed by a sound work­ be able to take over responsibility as the counties. ing organisation for co-operation based years pass. In the early years founder regiment on our Regimental HQ and Outstations The next issue of Castle will give more members would naturally predominate network. detail on our benevolence organisation but, as time passed, retired Royal Royal Anglian membership of associa­ and work. In the meantime, if you are not Anglians would provide fresh blood and tions is our main problem. As the years already supporting your local branch, ensure continuity. The result is that we pass, membership from former regiments why not make contact? (Address list on have: will regrettably grow smaller, and an in­ page 64). • The associations listed above who run flux of Royal Anglians to county joint our joint affairs in our counties, assisted associations is essential to our future. As

49 THE ROYAL ANGLIAN REGIMENT ASSOCIATION COMBINED GENERAL AND BENEVOLENT FUNDS Abridged Balance Sheet as at 31 Dec 86

ASSETS AND LIABILITIES CAPITAL OF FUNDS 1985 1985 £ £ £ 146,534 Balance brought forward...... 173,677 1,252 Office furniture at cost 23,162 Excess Income over Expenditure...... 17,390 less depreciation...... 847 3,981 Profit on disposals...... 25,699 159,128 Investment at Cost...... 188,778 29,770 Cash loans/debtors...... 28,010 9,175 Stocks...... 9,982 2,209 Cash at bank, deposit and in hand...... 5,175

Deduct Liabilities 17,857 Creditors and loans 16,026 173,677 216,766 173,677 216,766

GENERAL FUND Abridged Income & Expenditure Account INCOME EXPENDITURE

1985 1985 £ £ 179 Subscriptions...... 110 166 Administration...... 198 92 Investment Income gross...... 92 98 Printing and Stationery...... 117 876 Profit on Sale of Regimental 198 Postage, Sundries Souvenirs...... 1,044 and Depredation...... 84 382 Refund of Administration 65 Stock Written O ff...... 151 Expenses from Benevolent Fund...... 200 457 Donations...... 151 Funded Charities Grant...... 200 Recruits entertainment 16 on Liaison Visits...... 153 11 W reaths...... 88 518 Excess of Income over Expenditure...... 855

1,529 1,646 1,529 1,646

BENEVOLENT FUND Abridged Income & Expenditure Account

INCOME EXPENDITURE

1985 1985 £ £ £ £ 39,245 Days Pay Scheme...... 42,837 281 A udit...... 388 12,170 Investment Income...... 13,964 4,907 Case G rants...... 7,499 418 Interest from Short Term Deposit...... 13 5.500 Donations to ABF...... 6,000 2,740 Sundry Donations & Receipts...... 2,073 6,700 Grants to Outstations...... 6,700 1.500 Personal Accident Premium ...... 1,500 5,535 Journal G rant...... 4,646 885 Donations & Appeals...... 1,021 402 Depreciation...... 403 218 Regimental Loan Write O ff...... — — Grant Suffolk Regiment War Memorial Homes...... 3,680 — Grant to Regimental Image...... 3,915 432 Recruits Visits Expenses...... 412 5,187 Transfer Officers’ Subs from Half Days Pay...... 5,988 382 Association Admin Expenses...... 200 22,644 Excess of Income over 54,573 58,887 Expenditure...... 16,535

Auditors Messrs Whiting & Partners, Bury St. Edmunds 54,573 58,887

50 Around the Branches

A MEMORIAL plaque to those who died in the Far East during the Second World War was dedicated by the Bishop of Norwich in St Peter Mancroft Church, Norwich at a special service on Sun 15 Feb 87. Some 700 members and friends of the FEPOW organisation attended the service which coincided with the 45th anniversary of the day on which Singapore fell and many thousands of East Anglians became prisoners of the Japanese. From then until the end of the war, services of prayer were held in many churches and par­ ticularly at St Peter Mancroft, for those who were prisoners and for their relatives. The memorial plaque was presented by the Norwich Fellowship of ex-Far East Prisoners of War.

life took place in St Mary’s Church, Blenheim Camp from 1928 until Bury St Edmunds on 4 Dec. The 1963. Percy was a father-figure to church was packed, not a seat free legions of young men passing and many standing. Jack Dye gave a through or serving at the Depot and truly outstanding address: a most fit­ we all learned from him according to ting tribute to this most famous Suf­ our needs. A wonderful man and folk soldier. typical of the quiet, modest, unfussy Col Tiny Heal took over the duties efficiency we know in so many of our of president in the interim and at the comrades, past and present. Regimental Council Meeting on 22 On the brighter side, we are THE past few months have given us Apr. Brig Bill Deller accepted the delighted to announce that two new cause for great sadness and at the post. We wish him well and thank Suffolk Regiment OCA branches are same time for some satisfaction. Col Tiny for his sound guidance and launched — Beccles and District As most readers will know, Gen Sir help during his period of steward­ (chairman Mr Fred Taylor of Thika, Richard Goodwin died in 28 Oct after ship. Midmeadow, Beccles, NR34 9TP a lingering illness. We were so glad The sadness of Gen Dick’s death (0502) 716893), and Felixstowe and that he was able to come to our last was not made any easier by the loss District (chairman: Maj G. S. (Cubs) Minden reunion, although we could of Gen Tim Creasey so recently, after Cubitt of 31, Colneis Road, Felix­ all see that he was fighting hard a long illness. stowe IP11 9HF (0394) 285661). We against his failing strength. He was a All former Suffolk officers and wish them every success. Would any truly wonderful man, universally many of their East and Royal former member of the Regiment who loved and respected, the like of Anglian successors will be further lives in one of these areas and who whom most of us will not be privileg­ saddened to learn of the death of wishes to know more, please contact ed to see again. Percy Watts, who ran the Officers’ your local chairman. The other, well- The Thanksgiving Service for his Mess in Gibraltar Barracks and in established branches are centred on

51 Around the Branches Bury St Edmunds, Hemel Hempstead Wisbech were captured at Singapore his 83rd year. He has looked after the and Ipswich. We need more. Any and spent the rest of the war in camps St Georges Chapel, in the cathedral, reader seeking more information or working on the Death Railway. since 1958 and will be very difficult to replace. should contact the secretary of the Club members have built a replica OCA, Maj Duncan Sutor on Those who served in our 4th Bn in of the type of hut they lived in and on 1944/45 may be interested in a book Wickham Market 746103. display are the Cambridgeshire Regi­ recently published by Brig Hart-Dyke Here are some dates for your Suf­ ment drums, hidden in a Malayan hut folk diary: of the Yorkshire Volunteers. It deals before the fall of Singapore and mainly with the Hallamshire Bat­ 27-28 May: Suffolk County Show discovered there in 1947 by Miss talion but the 4th Lincolns are often (Regimental tent) Mary Taylor, a Red Cross worker 6th Jun NOTE NEW DATE: mentioned. Contact this office for from Dullingham, near Newmarket. 1100hrs. OCA Annual Meeting, The further details. Limes, Needham Market, (buffet There are numerous drawings from We sadly report that since last go­ lunch to follow at which ladies Canon Stallard while in captivity and ing to press the following have passed welcome). a photograph of the Changi lychgate on:- Mr Bassingdale, Mr Moore, Mr 2 Aug: Minden Reunion Weekend, designed by a Wisbech man, the late North aged 101, Mr Bryan, Mr (begins at 1100hrs). Bob Ringer. There is humour also in Fosdyke, Mr Hall, Mr Tiverton, Mr 8 Aug: Britannia latest date for input the Christmas Day menus and the Hennington, Mr Sherboume, Mr in Suffolk editor’s hands. photos of camp concerts. Hill, Mr Wingell, Mr Rose, MrGrun- 3 Oct: Suffolk OCA annual buffet nell, Mr Rains, Maj Corry, one of dance. The Limes Needham Market our In Pensioners, Alf Winters, and one of our regimental widows, Mrs Exton. It is difficult to keep trace of former members of the Regiment, so please send any news of ex members to the honorary secretary.

OUR comrades reunion was held at Cleethorpes on the weekend of 20/21 THE dedication of the Whittlesey, Sep 86. Maj Gen Sir Christopher Peterborough and District Branch Welby-Everard presided and more Standard took place on 31 May in than 200 members attended. Peterborough Cathedral, followed by The 1987 reunion will be held on a civic reception in 5 R Anglian, Lon­ the weekend of 26/27 Sep, at don Road TA Centre. Cleethorpes, details are available On Sun 14 June the Regimental from RHQ R Anglian, Sobraon Bar­ TELEVISION and press pictures of Reunion will take place at Ely start­ racks, Burton Road, Lincoln LN1 the visit of the Queen and Prince ing at 1415. Col W. A. Heal has been 3PY. Phillip to China last autumn have invited to take the salute supported Our officers reunion was held at stirred the memory o f Mr Ted Wills by the president and the Mayor of Sobraon Barracks on the weekend of of Luton who served with 1st Bedfs & Ely. 25/26 Apr 87. Col John Gleadall Herts in the Canton area during 1927 By the time the Behind Bamboo presided and among those present where a civil war was raging. Many of exhibition at the Wisbech Museum were Maj Gen Sir Christopher the places visited during the Royal closes, more than 3,500 people will Welby-Everard, Maj Gen Gerrard- tour were familiar to Mr Wills who have seen it. Few will have left dry- Wright. Brig Oulton, who was 83 on has photographs of a number of eyed for above all, this exhibition is 24 April, was unable to be with us them. about courage and suffering and the due to ill health. We all hope that he He remembers especially vividly sort of camaraderie which flourishes will soon get better and be able to be the period when the battalion was in adversity. with us in September. protecting the Lindsey coal and silver Put together by the Wisbech Branch dinners were held in Lin­ mines when its duties included the Singapore Club whose chaplain, coln in February and Grimsby in provision of guards for the protec­ Canon Fred Stallard, himself a Far March. The Grantham dinner will be tion of trains carrying the products of East Prisoner of War, is chairman of held this month. Information about the mines. the Friends of the Museum, it tells these functions can be obtained direct As a measure of its appreciation of simply, yet dramatically, with the use from the branches concerned. this service the Kailan Mining of prisoners’ treasured possessions, Mr Paddy Neely who has served us Association presented the battalion ranging from a toothbrush to diaries, here in Lincoln since the R Anglian with a silver model of a locomotive the story of those who from around office was opened, died in March in and tender which is now held by the

52 Around the B ran ch es 3rd Battalion. Our only In-Pensioner at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, Mr Jack Butty, was also with the battalion at this time and described his experiences to Maj Thorogood, when the latter visited him at Christmas. Mr Wills, who in his youth was a battalion boxer and has always kept himself very fit, gave proof o f this recently when, in spite of his 79 years, he repulsed two would-be muggers, knocking one to the ground and breaking two of his teeth! Mr H. A. Cooper who served with 2nd Bedfs & Herts in Italy during the last war visited the military cemeteries recently where many of his comrades are buried. His account is reproduced, in precise form, in the hope that it will be of use to others who have relatives or friends buried in either or both of these cemeteries. “Coriano is set someway from the village beside a quiet road, the sides and rear are bounded by neat hedges and the front with railings and double gates. Inside the gates is a On parade for Remembrance Day small building in which are kept the of the Essex Regiment Association Roll of Honour and a visitors’ book. and we shall certainly return their The cemetery is in plots, each con­ visit which I trust will begin a period taining 100 graves, and lie astride a of closer co-operation between us.” central path. There is a profusion of In 1986 the Standard of the Hert­ flowers, mostly red roses, and the ford branch, then 50 years old, was in grounds are carefully tended, giving imminent danger of disintegration it a most peaceful air and it is obvious and its replacement was the only that no effort is spared to maintain solution to add the Battle Honours and respect this lovely place. gained during the 1939-45 War, and The Cesena cemetery is much of acknowledging our relationship smaller and is situated some way with the Royal Anglian Regiment at from the town. The approach from the same time. the busy road is via a long path which It was finally decided to place the runs through corn fields and an or­ Royal Anglian Regiment badge cen­ chard which effectively deadens traf­ trally on a background of black and fic noise. Again, there was a profu­ amber surrounded by the Bedfords & sion of red roses although there were Herts Regt Battle Honours, the 16th lots of other flowers too. Foot and the branch title. Overlooking the cemetery is a hill While current membership of each on which stands a monastery which, The OCA Standord branch still consists almost entirely of Mr Cooper says, was used by the former soldiers of the 16th Foot, Mortar Platoon Commander of his Past and Present last September, he recruitment is, sadly but inevitably battalion as an O P.” invited Mr Harry Conn of the Essex reducing, and the maintenance of Mr Cooper concluded his account Regiment Association to attend his numbers will become increasingly with these moving words: “ The sense branch dinner at Hertford on 7 Mar dependant on inducing ex-members of comradeship we had known in the and to bring some of his members. of the Royal Anglian Regiment to old days was still there; may it ever be The branch was delighted when Mr join. It is felt that, apart from the ob­ so.” Conn arrived with a party of ten and vious reasons for the inclusion of the When Mr Stanley Mansfield, their wives. Mr Mansfield expressed badge, its presence may well provide Secretary of the Hertford branch, at­ the feelings of the entire branch when something with which would-be new tended the annual dinner of the he said: "This is the first time we members can identify and thus sway Royal Anglian Regiment Sergeants have been able to welcome members doubters. 53 Around the Branches

Pictured above from left to right, are Professor Carmelo Testa, a wartime partisan leader, Col Campbell, Intelligence Officer at the NATO base in Italy. Ex-Sgt Bill Hawkins, secretary of the 4th Essex branch of the Essex Regiment Association and Flying Officer Ken Hawkins during the 4th Essex battlefield tour of Italy last year.

Below: A party of 4th Essex comrades pictured on the steps of the Conca Park Hotel, Sorrento, during 4th Essex battlefield tour of Italy, 1986. Sport on camera

Sgt Gaster passes the ball as Capt Branch closes in during the Poachers' sergeants v officers soccer match. Poachers perform well DUE to returning late in the year from N Congratulations to Pte Inglis of A Coy few stars, such as the QM(T) Capt Ireland the Poachers were unable to enter who did extremely well to gain second McDonnell and Capt Napier, doing much the Grade 3 novice boxing championships place in the under 56kg, senior novice to keep the underdogs head above water. and attempted the grade 2 using those class, UKLF judo championships. Having The favourites, the Warrant Officers boxers Ieft from the successful team s of taken up the sport nine years ago Inglis is and Sergeants Mess fielded a strong side earlier years. Under the guidance of CSgt now a green belt and intends to better with such players as WO1 (RSM) ‘Mick’ Downland the team achieved a himself over the coming year. O’Driscoll, WOII (RQMS) Brown, CSgt memorable win in the UKLF final against The competition staged at the Army Thomas and Sgts Catton and Gaster all 2 RGJ coming back from 4-2 down to win School of Physical Education, on 14 Feb playing notably well. Despite this, the 5-4. was the first such event entered and the teams were evenly matched, and after a In the Army final in BAOR once again result is a promising sign for the future of goalless game, penalties were struck to it was the RRW who were the opponents Poachers judo. find the winning team. The RSM’s team and despite an all-out effort from the One of the highlights of the soccer eventually won 3-2 on penalties. team the RRW proved too strong and the season was the Poachers Officers v War­ This season the Poachers have managed battalion had to accept the runners-up rant Officers and Sergeants Mess to produce a good quality battalion rugby trophy again. Christmas match. This took place before team. A policy of encouraging as many Battalion boxing will continue in 1987 block leave and proved to be an enjoyable soldiers as possible to play rugby on with inter-coy competitions in and memorable occasion, if not for the return from South Armagh was adopted. September/October and entry in the standard of play, then for Maj Peter Company and platoon teams joined for grade 3 novice championships later in the Willdridge’s exciting displays of tackling battle. The D(Sp)/HQ team had a fine year in an attempt to add a BAOR trophy finesse. to the numerous UKLF wins. The Officers fielded a mixed bag with a Continued Page 96

55 Sport on camera

CAPT John Ross organised a successful Viking inter company/platoon orienteer­ ing competition on 21 Sep which was won by B Coy with 6 PI winning the inter pla­ toon event and, to prove the point, Maj Bill Mooring, OC B Coy was the in­ dividual winner on the B course and Cpl Martin, B Coy won on the A course. The battalion team lead by Capt Ross won the 1986 Infantry Orienteering Championships at Cannock Chase on 5 Nov 8 6 . Team members were Capt Lucas, W 02 Shrubsall, CSgts Grenfell and Bon­ nett, Cpls Martin and Dawkins. Addi­ tional congratulations to John Ross as he is also the individual M40 Champion. It is a little sad that our orienteering prowess may suffer over the next two years, however we hope to be back in the fore on our return to Colchester in 89, we know Vikings' Infantry orienteering champions: from left (back row) Cpl Dawkins, Cpl that the Eastern District League has a Martin, CSgt Bonnett; (front row) CSgt Grenfell, Capt Ross and Capt Lucas. good following and look forward to com­ peting in it again. From Page 55 On 8 Oct CSgt Haniver lead the Vik- confrontation with an A, B and C Coy ings’ cross country team into fifth posi­ XV, to name just one. Good day out tion in the Northern Ireland Competition. From this strong base the Poachers’ A respectable result bearing in mind the team took on the local Colchester units. for golfers operational constraints on training and Although beaten by 1 KOSB, in an ex­ availability of individuals in Lon­ tremely hard contest, a good win over a THIRTY-TWO members of the Regimen­ donderry. strong 45 Fd Regt XV put the Poachers in tal Golfing Society met at Flempton golf The battalion concluded the cricket good heart prior to travelling to Bass­ course on 10 Apr in ideal spring weather season as runners up in the Northern ingbourn. and all had a particularly good day's golf. Ireland Major Units League Champion­ The duel was fast, hard and furious Handicap singles and Stableford matches ships, winning 10 o f the 12 matches with excellent individual efforts from Cpl were played in the morning and after a played. A total of 21 players represented Cox, Pte Spillar and the diehards of Maj good lunch and a beer or two, friendly the battalion during the competition. Two Willdridge and Capt Branch. In the closing foursome Stableford in the afternoon. performances worthy of particular note minutes the Poacher’s sixteenth man, Lt The results were: Handicap Medal 1st were Sgt Huddlestone batting (7 innings, Smith, gave a penalty away in front of the Maj Colin Ladley with a net 70, 2nd Maj 1 not out 132 runs an average of 22 and post and Lt Taylor duly converted. The Roy Jenns with a net 71 and 3rd Maj Capt Lucas Bowling (27 overs, 5 maidens, final score of 10-8 to the Poachers Tony Cobbold also with a net 71. 22 wickets for 64 runs, average 2.9). reflected the ferocity of the conflict. Stableford Singles 1st Capt Dave David­ The final of the football competition The battalion moved to Celle and son 36 points, 2nd Ex W 02 "Shack” was held in Aldershot on 15 Oct. The Vik­ found that many of the old stars had Shailes 35 points, 3rd W02 G. Peck 35 ings finished third in group B, just miss­ moved on. A team travelled to Fall- points. Stableford Foursomes, 1st W02 ing a place in the final by one point. This ingbostel for the 1 Armd Div seven-a-side George Boss and Sgt K. Rowe 38 points, was a keenly contested competition and competition and although failing to 2nd Capt Tony Thompson and Mr Shailes some excellent football was played. LCpl qualify for the knock-out stage the team 36 points, 3rd Maj Guy Hipkin and Capt Botley scored 9 of the Vikings 17 goals. in no way embarrassed itself. Dave Davidson 35 points. On 23 Nov, the WO’s & Sgts put their The Poachers are looking forward to Golf dates: Annual meeting, Royal credibility on the line in a football match the 87/88 season and are hoping to build Worlington 5 June. Triangle match v against the Cpls. As expected the younger in a sound resurgence. With so many ex­ Queens v RRF at Gog Magog golf course men won a resounding victory 5 goals to perienced players having recently been 18 Jun. Autumn meeting Flempton Golf 3, albeit two of the Cpls goals were posted the young stars of the battalion Club 11 Sep and 12 Sep, match v Flemp­ courtesy of CSgts Bacon and Gamble will have everything to go for. ton. scoring own goals.

56 Sport on camera

Cpl Stewart of the Vikings on the boll during a match against the Royal Navy in Gibraltar which the Vikings won 2-1.

57 Sport on camera Success for Depot runners THE Depot actively participates in most EDIST sports, though because of the varied work schedule of the PS it is dif­ ficult to make the right people available on the right days. (Recruits are not allow­ ed to represent the Depot at sports). Even so, the Depot has had some suc­ cess. The cross country team, led by WO2 Dent and including four other Royal Anglians, have had a very successful season. They won the EDIST Minor Units Championship, were runners-up in the area finals and went on to finish 9th in the Army Championships being the only In­ fantry unit to get that far. Our runners have also been very active Royal Anglian members of the Depot cross country team. From left: CSgt Steve in the East Anglian Cross Country League Pallant (3rd Bn), W02 Alan Dent (3rd Bn) running manager, Sgt Dale Keeble (3rd and our two teams finished 4th and 6 th Bn), Cpl Kevin O'Dell (3rd Bn) not in picture, Pte Mark Patten (2nd Bn). overall. There is also a flourishing road runners club at the depot, led by Sgt Slevin, which frequently takes part in civilian events such as the Bury 2 0 , the Chelmsford 10 and the Army half marathon in Aldershot (in aid of the Ferry Disaster Appeal). In rugby the Depot team did well to reach the semi-finals of the Army Minor Units Championships in which they were beaten by a strong Royal Engineers side. The rugby team includes a number of Royal Anglians, among whom are Lts Bill Howard and Tim Smith (who captain the side between them), Lt Rob Vass, and Cpls Kretay, Saywell, Dodd and Richards. Football is popular and the Depot plays in the RAF East Anglian League and regularly fields a side in friendlies with local teams. They also took part in the EDIST Minor Units Championships and reached the final. The Depot has started a motorcycle club and has bought five Honda CB125cc motorcycles. The aim is to encourage an interest in motorcycling and to promote safe riding. To this effect the club will be taking part in the British Motorcyclists Federation rider training scheme with assistance from the local police.

Runners-up in the Infantry Minor Units orienteering championship were three members of the 6th Bn Permanent Staff — CSgt Morley, Capt Antolik and CSgt Long. They went one better to win the Eastern/London District Regular Minor Unit orienteering competition.

58 Sport on camera

Left: Winners of the Eastern London District TA women's orienteering competition were the WRAC of B (Bedfordshire) Coy, 6th Bn. From le ft: Lt French, Pte McGlynn, Pte Walmsley, Pte Huk and Cpl Show.

In the Eastern District cross country championships at Bassingbourn in February, the 6th Bn did w e ll providin g the winners of the ladies team event (picture right) — Sgt Oleszczuk, Pte McGlynn, Pte Lewis, Pte Damant, Pte Bilkhu and Pte Ball. The battalion were also runners- up in the men's team event (below ) — LCpI N ew m an, Pte Bailey, LCpI M oore, Cpl Henman and Pte Kelly.

Cricket fixtures

CRICKET fixtures for this year are listed below, some of which will have taken place by the time you read the Castle. If you would like to play in any particular match please let Col Julian Browne know on York Military 2434 or Maj Guy Hipkin at RHQ on Colchester Military 5138.

Sat 23 May v Bancrofts Bassingbourn 1400 hrs Sun 24 May v Harrow Bassingbourn 1400 hrs Sun 7 Jun v EE Lombes XI Marlingford 1130 hrs Sun 14 Jun v Haileybury Haileybury 1400 hrs Sun 21 Jun v Felsted Bassingbourn 1400 hrs Sat 27 Jun v Uppingham Uppingham 1400 hrs Sat 4 Jul v Gresham’s Holt 1130 hrs Sun 5 Jul v Oundle Oundle 1400 hrs Wed8 Jul v Framlingham Bassigbourn 1130 hrs 9-16 Jul Gibraltar (TBC)

59 Obituary Lt Gen Sir Richard Goodwin KCB CBE DSO DL

“WE have come here today to St. Mary’s and it is only recently that military to give thanks for the life of General Sir historians have acknowledged what a Richard Goodwin; General Dick in the splendid feat of arms it was. A party of Regiment; Dick Goodwin; Dick to so officers from my 1st Royal Norfolk Bat­ many of his friends. talion who were close to the operation at Dick worshipped here in this his parish the time visited the battlefield this year church and within it his Regimental and in our view the action o f the Suffolk Chapel. under Dick Goodwin on that historic day His life spanned 78 years and there are was one of the outstanding achievements people here who knew him from his by a British battalion. earliest to his last days. School friends at Colonel Dick was severely wounded the beginning and neighbours at Denham shortly afterwards, and was awarded the at the end of his life. Distinguished Service Order. Dick was very proud of his old school Dick returned to his battalion in and one of his joys was to have been a November 44 and for the final six months member of the Council of Cheltenham of that war led 1st Suffolk through College for 15 years. The annual meeting Holland and into Germany, ending the of the College Council and our Regimen­ campaign in Europe with the Divisional tal Dinner occur on the same day each assault on Bremen. year. When I was Colonel of The Regi­ The post-war years saw a steady ad­ ment more often than not the General, in vance in rank and responsibility in Dick’s that gentle apologetic voice, would ask me career, and service in many lands. One to excuse him from our dinners as he particularly happy period for Dick and thought he should be at Cheltenham. You Anthea was when the General was ap­ couldn't really ever refuse him anything. pointed GOC in East Africa. As always, There are also present today Gentlemen Anthea made their house quite charming Cadets who were with Mr Goodwin in 5 and they welcomed any of their friends natural thing that Dick on his retirement Company at the Royal Military Academy, who could get to Kenya. My wife and I from the service should take up the ap­ Sandhurst, 60 years ago. were fortunate enough to be able to do so pointment of Secretary of the British Dick was commissioned into the Suf­ from Aden, and we enjoyed the Goodwin Field Sports Society. The society is involv­ folk Regiment, and the First ten years of hospitality as so many others of us have ed in matters which to some people are his service was spent in India. The pattern done over the years. of army life in those pre-war days allowed Dick’s last field appointment was as controversial, and consequently the af­ fairs of the BFSS are frequently in the Dick to indulge his love of sport. Commander of the 1st (and only) British He was a good games player but it was Corps in Rhine Army. This was, and is a public eye. Dick was so well suited to his in India that he found his great affection most prestigious posting, and it gave great new role. With his calm temperament, for the horse, with all its associated activi­ pleasure and encouragement to so many great charm and unfailing courtesy he was ty, and this was to continue all his life. throughout the Army because it demon­ able to exercise a calming but effective in­ Service in India was followed by an ap­ strated that someone with Dick’s ability, fluence on the somewhat frenetic life of BFSS politics. pointment here in Bury St. Edmunds at but who was so modest and unthrusting, his Regimental Depot. But a much more could make it to the top. During his seven years with the society significant event than routine peacetime Gen Dick’s final appointment was as Dick built up its regional organisation and soldiering at home occurred when Dick Military Secretary where he had the greatly increased its membership. He was and Anthea met — where else but when responsibility for planning officers a marvellous ambassador and greatly they were out with the Suffolk — and they careers to the highest level, and his service respected, even by the society's most were married here in this church in Oc­ experience and his temperament made vehement opponents. I know that there tober 1940. Thus began a marvellous part­ him an ideal choice for the job. The are many here who believe that our con­ nership, lasting 46 years, which gave such Military Secretary also has the respon­ tinued enjoyment of field sports today happiness to them both and was such a sibility of telling senior officers when their owes much to Dick Goodwin’s influence joy to their friends. careers are to end, and this, to some, at that time. General Dick was given command of comes as an unwelcome surprise. Two honorary appointments which the 1st Battalion of his Regiment in 1943. I remember a friend who had high ex­ gave Dick much pleasure were that of He was 34, one of the young breed of pectations telling me that when the Lieutenant at the Tower of London and commanding officer brought in for the Military Secretary sent for him to tell him that of Colonel of his Regiment. Being a Second Front. His battalion was in the the bad news, Dick did it in such a charm­ military historian and so fond of 3rd Division, who were an assault division ing and kind way that my chum left ceremonial he always remembered his for the invasion of Normandy, and his Dick’s office feeling that he was extremely time at the Tower involving the people task was to prepare his battalion for that lucky to have been selected for retirement, who live and work there, with much affec­ role. rather than to pursue his ambition to tion. 1st Suffolk landed early on D-Day 6 become Chief of the General Staff. The General became Colonel of my Jun 44 and their objectives were to cap­ During their years together both at Regiment shortly after it was formed ture two immensely strongly fortified home and abroad Dick and Anthea were from seven line regiments, each are proud German positions which dominated our dedicated hunting people and shared of its own traditions and individuality. beach-head. The battalion secured their many marvellous days with many of us Dick, of all people, had immense respect positions late in the afternoon of D-Day, here today. It therefore seemed a most Continued on Page 61

60 Obituary

Lt Col R. M. Williams AAC and later a Company Commander. Maj Harold Bestley After returning from the Middle East RONNIE Williams died on 31 Dec 86 in he started work in Intelligence which was HAROLD Bestley, that well loved Gloucestershire. to become his dominating interest and oc­ member of 9 Battalion the Parachute Ronald Morris Williams enlisted in Jul cupation. The work took him for two Regiment, died peacefully on Oct 86 at 40 and was commissioned in May 41, just tours o f duty to the USA where he and his the age of 6 6 . before his 20th birthday. He served in the wife, Ann, made and kept, many friends He played his part in the annals of the United Kingdom for most of this time with some of whom he continued to work. Parachute Regiment to the full. Tributes with 6 R Sussex — until Feb 45 when he He became an expert in his field and his have come in from many sources and they joined 4 RWF just before that battalion particular knowledge and experience was all bear out the picture I had of him when was committed to the battle of the important and greatly valued. he was Adjutant of 10 Battalion the Essex Reichland Forest. He attended the Staff College in 1954/5 Regiment when that battalion converted As a Platoon Commander Ronnie and commanded the Regimental Depot in to the parachuting role early in 1943. One greatly distinguished himself in one of the 1959. He was promoted Lieutenant Col­ was immediately struck by a deep inner bitterest battles fought in Western Europe onel in 1967 to command 4 Communica­ calm that possessed him — unusual I against determined German resistance. A tions Unit. thought in one so young — and this im­ few weeks later at Goch, he was awarded Ronnie was a brave, honest, straight­ perturbability, coupled with a strong an immediate Military Cross for the forward man who served his country, the determination, good humour, and his leadership and courage he then displayed. Army and his Regiment very well indeed. compassion for his fellow soldiers, made He was wounded shortly after the Rhine He was companionable and humorous him an ideal parachute officer. crossing. and a loyal comrade and friend. He will His diligence and ability when attend­ He was posted to 1 Suffolk in Germany be sadly missed by us all but we are the ing to detail was invaluable when com­ in Aug 45 in time to go with the 3rd Divi­ richer for having known and loved him. peting with all the problems of the conver­ sion to Egypt and Palestine. In Feb 46 he To his wife, Ann, and their three sion of 10 Essex into 9 Para. It also stood was granted a Regular Commission in the children we send our deep sympathy and him in good stead for he was turned down Suffolk Regiment. He became Adjutant our affection. in the medical examination for para­ chuting due to colour blindness. His name mysteriously vanished from From Page 60 and o f his distinguished service in the Suf­ that role and was inserted in one of the for custom and past achievements but, folk Regiment, the members of which sticks organised for ground and equally, as a senior and practical infantry have always regarded Bury St. Edmunds parachuting training. He was a good soldier he knew what the new regiment as their home. The presence at this cross-country runner and we shall long would require in terms of morale and Thanksgiving Service of the Mayor, Cor­ remember that quiet, humble man and the motivation. With quiet insistence, infinite poration Freemen and holders of the vital role he played in the launching of a patience, and steel when necessary, he did Freedom of the Borough is a mark of great Parachute Battalion. much to create the mould which has turn­ their deepest respect for Gen Goodwin. Before the war he was articled to an ed out the Royal Anglian Regiment as it is So much time in Gen Dick’s later years Essex law firm with a view to entering his today — confident and sure of its future was devoted to the welfare and well being family practice in Southend. with a loyal and strong old comrades of the former soldiers of his Regiment. He His military career was divided between organisation to back us up. We too, owe was looked on by them as the father o f the the Essex and Parachute Regiments. He the General so much. Regiment and it was a privilege to be a joined 10 Essex in 1940, became In­ Dick and Anthea came back to Suffolk guest at a Minden Day reunion held an­ telligence Officer that year and Adjutant to a second retirement ten years ago, but nually here at The Keep. Dick had a in 1941. In 9 Para he was promoted to much awaited them here. Dick was phenominal memory for people and Company Commander in 1943 and was already Vice Lord Lieutenant of the places, and it was fascinating to hear him badly wounded in the attack on the Mer- County and he greatly enjoyed his in­ exchange reminiscences with old com­ ville battery on the night of 5 Jun 44. volvement with our voluntary organisa­ rades of events which occurred many, After recovering from his wounds he serv­ tions, and particularly with those con­ many years ago. They, the soldiers, loved ed with 9 Para in Palestine and then with cerned with young people. He was asked him in the sense that only soldiers use that the 1 Essex in Luneburg, Korea and Dort­ to become chairman of the appeal for St. word, and they will never forget him. Gen mund. Edmund’s Nursing Home. This was a Dick too, truly loved his Regiment, and He served a term on the staff of HQ Far heavy task requiring the raising of over now its most distinguished soldier has East Land Forces in Singapore where he £750,000. With his local knowledge, en­ been laid to rest after a lifetime of service met and married Lucy Dakin. thusiasm and hard work the money was to his Queen, and Country and this com­ He left the Army in 1961 and entered found and the nursing home is flourishing munity. the teaching profession in Coleshill in Bir­ today. Many people have already benefit­ Our thoughts are with his family, to the mingham where he served for nine years. ted from the facilities available there and three generations here today. Gen Dick In 1970 he and Lucy acquired and became so many more will do so in the future. Goodwin was the head of the family and partners in the Royal Oak Hotel in Those closely involved both in the concept his loss is irreplaceable. Rosthwaite, Cumbria. His hotel was a and the present operation of the nursing We today thank God that our lives mecca for the walking fraternity and home hold the opinion that they would touched his, this dear, gentle man of many families would return year after not be in business today without Dick's whom no-one ever spoke an unkind word. year. help and guidance. We pray that the wealth of friendship, Our heart goes out to Lucy his wife and One event which gave both Dick and respect, and affection present in this con­ his four children — Frances, Susan, Peter Anthea great pleasure was when Dick was gregation will help to sustain and comfort and John. Not only have they lost a good made a Freeman of the Borough of St. the family at this time” . husband and father but in the words of Edmundsbury. It was granted as a token Address given by General Sir Napier Crookenden “an ex­ of the esteem in which he was held locally Maj Gen J. B. Dye CBE MC DL ceptionally nice man” . S.J.L.H. 61 Obituary

Maj Colin Gardiner Pte D. J. Goldthorpe. Pte Goldthorpe of the 1st Battalion died following a long COLIN Gardiner was born on 21 June illness, and was buried at St M ary’s 1927. He was educated at Dunstable Church, Lutterworth on 2 Jan 87. Our School, and after service with 5 Gurkha sympathy goes to his family. Rifles, The Royal Irish Fusiliers and a secondment with the Trans Jordan Fron­ Pte S. Davis. Pte Davis of the 6 th Bat­ tier Force (Arab Legion), he was granted talion was tragically killed in a traffic ac­ a regular commission in The Northamp­ cident on 16 Dec 8 6 . Our sympathy goes tonshire Regiment in 1946, joining the 1st to his family. Battalion in Austria. He served in Austria and Trieste until early 1951 when he joined the Glorious Col M.C.D.L. Glosters in Korea as they were reforming Reynolds., OBE after the Battle of the lmjin, remaining with them until their victorious return to IT was with great sadness that his many England. friends heard of the death, at his home in A fter leave, Colin rejoined the 1st Bat­ Seaford, of Mervyn Reynolds, on 19 Feb, talion in Trieste remaining with them until following a stroke which he suffered late becoming Adjutant of 5 Northamptons in last year. Peterborough under Colonel Wilf Born in 1910 and educated at Wilford. During this tenure he was one of Aldenham School and Sandhurst, Mervyn was commissioned into the Bedfordshire those primarily responsible for the strumental in reconstituting the local and Hertfordshire Battalion at Bordon. organisation of the highly successful Of­ defence forces of that colony. Then, after He quickly qualified at the Army School ficers Balls at Hinchingbrook Castle. qualifying at the Joint Services Staff Col­ of Physical Training at Aldershot and, Colin attended both the Staff College at lege in 1948, and a period in the early being unusually good at many of the Camberley and the US Army Staff Col­ 1950’s as 2IC o f the 1st Battalion o f the sports and skills taught there, soon lege. He was a successful Brigade Adju­ Regiment, he was employed in various tant to Colonel Tiny Heal, and was also became a most useful young leader in the Staff appointments at home, and also in DAMS HQ1 BR Corps and a GS02 at the battalion. Malaya, until he retired in 1956. His outstanding charm combined with School of Infantry. He held Grade 1 ap­ Mervyn served the Regiment again as his strong personality and enthusiasm for pointments with BAS Washington, the Regimental Secretary at Bury St. Ed­ TAVR HQ Northern Ireland and finally all good “things military” soon earned munds (1964-1965) and thereafter was as DAG/CRLS R and LS, NE District in for him a wide and enduring circle of employed for a time as an “R.O.” at York, where he retired taking up a RO ap­ friends both inside and outside the Regi­ Aldershot. After his final retirement, pointment in the same HQ, which he held ment. Mervyn continued to take great interest in until his death. After Bordon he moved with the bat­ many service matters, including active Colin came from Ireland and possessed talion into the happy atmosphere of pre­ work for SSAFA. all the charm of manner and quiet sense war Colchester and there remained until In his earlier years he had sporting in­ of humour associated with the majority his acceptance as Adjutant of the terests of many kinds and then, as he grew from that country. Those who served with Shanghai Volunteers in the summer of him were indeed fortunate. He was a first 1935. In 1938 he returned to England as older, developed a satisfying enthusiasm class regimental and staff officer, always Adjutant of the 5th Battalion and was for golf. respected, liked, and popular with all largely responsible for preparing that unit Mervyn is survived by his wife, Nyra, ranks. for war. He was promoted Major and re­ and by Richard and Sara, his son and The years may pass by and many will be mained with the 5th Battalion until 1940. daughter by his first marriage, to all of forgotten, but Colin Gardiner will be Mervyn was staff trained and his great whom we extend our deepest sympathy. remembered by all those who had the ability and drive ensured his early promo­ C.B. privilege to know him. tion outside the Regiment during his war Pte P. A . Tee To Betty and their three children we ex­ service in North Africa, Italy, Southern tend our deepest sympathy. France and North-West Europe. His ap­ PAUL Alec Tee joined the Poachers in P.W. pointments included several key positions May 1982 and quickly earned himself the at GSOI and Colonel level both at home respect and friendship of his comrades. and overseas. He was a keen, active soldier who excelled Capt D. G. Hillyard. David Hillyard, He was appointed an OBE in 1945 and at shooting, achieving a place in the Bisley late the Essex Regiment, died on 31 Jan 86 an Officer of the Legion of Merit of the team for four consecutive years and at Hove after a long illness. His funeral USA in 1948. This latter award was for shooting for the Army in Canada in 1985. was in Brighton on 11 Feb. Our sympathy his service in 1943/44 with Allied Force Serving in Northern Ireland for three goes to his family. Headquarters Mediterranean Theatre and tours, he gained a lot of experience which in recognition of his outstanding con­ he willingly imparted to his peers. Maj L. Peperell. Leonard Pepperell tribution to the planning of the Allied It came as a great shock to all of his died in The Queen Elizabeth Military Sicilian and other landings in the Mediter­ family and friends to hear that he had Hospital, Woolwich on 23 Apr 8 6 . ranean Theatre and the success of the been tragically killed in a rail accident Leonard was a member of the Regiment subsequent operations in the Italian cam­ during leave after a challenging tour in and the 2nd Battalion, but left to join the paign. South Armagh. RAOC. Our sympathy goes to his wife After the end of the war with Japan, A skillful soldier and always a cheerful, Irene and to their children Steven and Mervyn was sent as GSOI to HQ Land friendly character, he will be sadly missed Louise. Forces Hong Kong and was largely in­ by the battalion.

62 Obituary

ing friendship, keen intelligence, pleasant Although offered further promotion he Colonel Edwin Turnill baritone voice (and the large and amusing decided in 1977 that the time had come to OBE repertoire that went with it) and, at times, hang up his sword. He had married in wicked sense of humour. 1971 and by 1977 had two growing VERY many serving and retired officers He could be a stickler for discipline and children. As his wife, Adelaide, is a doc­ will have been saddened to read of Teddy has been known to order a subaltern to tor they settled near her practice in Hun­ Turnill’s death on 2 May. He joined the change his odd socks before dinner. On tingdon and Teddy carried out a second 1st Battalion of the Northamptonshire one notable occasion he dressed as the career as the estates director of the Pap­ Regiment towards the end of 1948, one of Mess Sergeant to meet a newly joined worth and Enham Village Settlements, a promising group of newly joined subaltern and "attempted” to pick up the where he continued to give valuable ser­ subalterns, and quickly made his mark. poor man’s suitcase only to say “ Bother vice. Born in Peterborough on 29 Nov 27 in­ me, I can’t carry that, Sir” and left the About two years ago he had to undergo to a well known and respected local fami­ owner to carry it himself as he led the way a big abdominal operation. When I saw ly he early showed academic promise and to the Blanco room where, he explained, him recovering in hospital he greeted me: won a scholarship to Kings, Peter­ the poor officer had to sleep as the Mess “ I’m doing fine, the doctor says I shall borough. Upon leaving he first obtained was ‘full’. He then joined the ‘padre’ and die of cirrhosis in the usual way.” employment as a trainee traffic manager other Mess members in such pursuits as I have been privileged to visit him on the LMS Railway but quickly decided strip poker for the edification of the new several times in his last bravely-faced ill­ life had better things to offer and applied arrival. ness. He thought hard and planned so for Sandhurst. He was Brigade Major of 8 In f Bde well for his family. He was brave and un­ His career of almost 30 years showed from Sep 66 and served with the 4th Bat­ complaining to the end. Typical o f his promise of high achievement. A few days talion Royal Anglian Regiment from Jan robust hum anity is his instruction to his before his death he told me that he served 68. darling wife, a few days before his death, with the battalion unbroken for almost He gave exemplary service as CO o f the that if his funeral was on a Friday and his ten years, ending as Adjutant before Desert Regiment of the SAF from son (at Winchester) had a cricket match going to Staff College from which he December of the same year and was in on the Saturday, he was to be returned in passed out high and was posted as DAAG command of that regiment when the pre­ good time to College. The boy had a Berlin Infantry Brigade. He became a sent ruler overthrew his father. He was match and he was returned in time. German linguist and was privileged to awarded the OBE for his outstanding ser­ Teddy was a man of many talents and pass through the German Staff College in vice. Later, and on further promotion, he of high quality. Not the least of those Oct 61. He then returned to the battalion served with distinction as Chief of Staff qualities was his gift of friendship. he loved for about three years. ACE Mobile Force and finally set up and We, his friends, extend our heartfelt Those who have had the pleasure of ser­ was the first Commandant of the Ghana sympathy to his wife Adelaide and Roly ving with him will remember his unswerv­ Staff College. and Lucy. H.M. Births and Marriages

ADDITIONS to Poacher families during ROBINSON. On 5 Dec 86 to Cpl and Mrs BESWICK - PURSEY. On 28 Feb 87 at the last few months include: D. A. Robinson, a daughter Danielle. Colchester, LCpI R. Beswick to Miss A. Pursey. DALE. On 5 Jan 87 to Pte and Mrs M. A. SMITH. On 1 Jan 87 to LCpI and Mrs P. CHAMBERS - BATEMAN. On 14 Mar Dale, a son Daniel. J. Smith, a daughter Kayleight. 87 at Northampton, LCpI R. Chambers to STAMMER. On 13 Oct 86 to SSgt and Miss L. Bateman. EVANS. On Feb 87 to LCpI and Mrs T. Mrs B. T. Stammer, a son Christopher. W. Evans, a daughter Lucy. CHARLTON - HODKINSON. On 21 W ALKER. On 24 Oct 86 to C pl and Mrs Mar 87 at Louth, LCpI P. Charlton to GREEN. On 1 Nov 86 to Cpl and Mrs M. V. J. Walker, a son Daniel. Miss J . Hodgkinson. S. S. Green, a daughter Emma. JACKSON - SWARBROOKE. On 22 HARRISON. On 3 Dec 86 to LCpI and Nov 86 at Spilsby, LCpl J. Jackson to AMONG the 50 Poacher weddings to take Miss A . Swarbrooke. Mrs G Harrison, a son Arran. place in the few months prior to the bat­ talion's move to Celle were: MURRAY - ROUSE. On 29 86 at Col­ McKEOWN. On 30 Dec 86 to Pte and KNOX - CHARLES. On 13 Dec 86 at chester. LCpI T. Murray to Miss S. Mrs P. J. McKeown, a daughter Louise. Chelsea, Lt R. A. Knox to Miss A. L. S. Rouse. Charles. MILNTHORPE. On 24 Feb 87 to Pte and ROUGET - ERRINGTON. On 2 Mar 87 Mrs S. M. Milnthorpe, a son Aiden. BUZZARD - HUNT. On 20 Dec 86 at at N ortham pton, LCpI S. Rouget to Miss Uppingham, Cpl S. N. Buzzard to Miss A. Errington. PETERS. On 21 Nov 86 lo Pte and Mrs C. H unt. P. J. Peters, a daughter Corinna. SARGENT - HILLING. On 7 Feb 87 at SELBY - ALLMAN. On 14 Feb 87 at Grimsby, LCpI D. Sargent to Miss M. PLANT. On 5 Dec 86 to Pte and Mrs P. Liverpool, Cpl R. J. Selby to Miss J. Hilling. A. Plant, a son Robert. Allman. 63 Association Branches

NORFOLK: HQ The Royal Nor­ CAMBRIDGESHIRE. HQ The GRIMSBY BRANCH 4th BATTALION COMRADES folk Regiment Association and The Cambridgeshire Regiment Old Mr F. Carlile, ASSOCIATION Royal Anglian Regiment Associa­ Comrades Association and the 13 Darnholm Court, Mr F. C. Hawkins, tion (Norfolk) — Britannia Bar­ Cambridgeshire Branch The Royal Grimsby, 8 Greenstead Close, racks, Norwich, Norfolk NR1 4HJ. Anglian Regiment Association — South Humberside, Hutton, Tel Norwich 628455. c/o TA Centre, Coldhams Lane, DN37 9LS. Essex. CM 13 1RD (221624) President: Maj Gen Sir David Cambridge. Thorne KBE BEDFORDSHIRE AND 7th EAGLE AND GUN President: Lt Col E. L. V. HERTFORDSHIRE — HQ The REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION Mapey OBE TD Royal Anglian Regiment Bedford­ (Incorporating 6th Bn OCA) KING’S LYNN BRANCH: shire and Hertfordshire Associa­ Mr A. S. Cross, Sir Paul Hawkins TD MP, CAMBRIDGE BRANCH tion, Blenheim House, Eagle Way, 34 Wood field Drive, Stables, Maj W. T. Seddon, Warley, Brentwood. CM13 3BN West Mersea, Lynn Road, 46 School Lane, (213051). Colchester, CO5 8PX. (384661) Downham Market, Fulbourn , Norfolk. Cambridgeshire CB1 5BH. President: Brig A. F. F. H. CHELMSFORD AND DISTRICT Robertson CBE BRANCH GREAT YARMOUTH/ ELY BRANCH Mr G. F. Thomas, GORLESTON BRANCH Lt Col J. R. Ennion TD, LONDON BRANCH 12 Hull Lane, Maj T. C. Eaton OBE TD DL 16 Sand Street, Mr W. G. Aldridge, Terling, St Cross, Soham, 14 Acacia Court, Chelmsford, 3 Albemarle Road, Cambridgeshire CB7 5AA. Grange Road, Essex CM3 2QX. (024533-506) Norwich NR2 2DF, Gravesend, Norfolk. MARCH BRANCH Kent. (64026) SAFFRON WALDEN BRANCH Mr H. H. Howes, Mr E. W. Elsom, LONDON BRANCH 2 Hundred Road, HERTFORD BRANCH 1 Parkside, Capt M. J. Franses, March, Mr S. R. Mansfield, Abbey Lane, 4 Kingswood Park, Cambridgeshire PE15 8QJ. 1 Gwynne’s Walk, Saffron Walden, Hendon Avenue, Hertford (581551) Essex. CB10 1AQ. (27370) Finchley, WISBECH BRANCH London N3 1UG. Mr J. Russell, ST ALBANS BRANCH SOUTHEND AND DISTRICT 35 Milner Road, Mr H. R. Howard, BRANCH Wisbech, 1 Laybrook, Capt R. G. Turnnidge, Cambridgeshire PE13 2LR. St Albans Road, 5 St David’s Drive, St Albans, Leigh-on-Sea, SUFFOLK. HQ The Suffolk WHITTLESEY/ Hertfordshire. (51432) Essex. SS9 3RQ. (554883) Regiment Old Comrades Associa­ PETERBOROUGH BRANCH tion and the Royal Anglian Regi­ Lt W. H . Patterson, BEDFORD BRANCH THURROCK AND DISTRICT ment Association (Suffolk and 20 Papyrus Way, Mr W. S. Haines, BRANCH Cambridgeshire Branch) — The Sawtry, 6 Costin Street, Mr H. M. Conn, Keep, Gibraltar Barracks, Bury St Peterborough. Bedford.(49865) 145 Godman Road, Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3RN. Tel: Chadwell St Mary, HITCHIN BRANCH Bury St Edmunds 2394. NORTHAMPTON. HQ The Grays, President: Brig W. C. Deller OBE Mr L. Olney, Essex. RM16 4TL. (Tilbury 71416 Northampton Regiment Associa­ 10 Abbiss Orchard, tion and The Royal Anglian Regi­ Ickleford, ment Association (Northampton) — Nr Hitchin, BURY ST EDMUNDS AND Gibraltar, Barracks, Barrack Road, Hertfordshire. (50710) LINCOLN — HQ The 10th Foo DISTRICT BRANCH Northampton NN1 3RE. Tel: Nor­ Regiment Lincolnshire Association Maj T. C. Warren, thampton 35412. WARE (HERTFORDSHIRE The Royal Anglian Regiment 14a St Martins Close, President: General Sir John REGIMENT) OCA Sobraon Barracks, Burton Road Exning, Akehurst KCB CBE Mr J. E. Crane BEM, Lincoln LN1 3PY. Suffolk CB8 7HG. London Road Nurseries, CORBY BRANCH Ware, President: Maj Gen Sir IPSWICH BRANCH Mr K. R. Fordyce, Hertfordshire. (3127) Christopher Welby-Everard KBE Maj H. D. Sutor, 7 Moriston Close, CB DL Marlow House, Corby, WATFORD AND HEMEL 58 High Street, Northants. HEMPSTEAD BRANCH LINCOLN BRANCH Wickham Market, Mr L. Nunn, Mr Chariton, Suffolk IP13 OQS. PETERBOROUGH BRANCH 53 Broomfield Rise, OCA Club, Mr A. R. Moore, Abbots Langley, Sobraon Barracks, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD BRANCH 10 Amanda Court, Hertfordshire. WD5 0HH. (65150) Burton Road, Mr R. G. Picton, Thorpe Lea Road, Lincoln LN1 3PY 45 Paston Road, Peterborough. LUTON AND DUNSTABLE Hemel Hempstead, BRANCH GRIMSBY BRANCH Hertfordshire HP2 5AZ. LEICESTER. HQ The Royal Mr D. H. Sharpe, Mr Dryan, Tigers Association and The Royal 19 Sowerby Avenue, 29 Westhill Road, BECCLES BRANCH Stopsley, Grimsby, Maj E. N. Ritchie, Anglian Regiment Association (Leicester) — TA Centre, Luton, S. Humberside. 4 Crowfoot Gardens, Bedfordshire. (28089) Beccles, Ulverscroft Road, Leicester LE4 6BY. Tel: Leicester 22749. GRANTHAM BRANCH Suffolk NR34 9TP. ESSEX — HQ The Royal Mr Halls, President: Colonel T. Holloway Anglian Regiment Essex Associa­ 2 The Avenue, FELIXSTOWE BRANCH tion, Blenheim House, Eagle Way, Dysart Road, Maj G. S. C’ubitt, LEICESTER BRANCH Warley, Brentwood. CM13 3EN Grantham, 31 Colneis Road, Lt Col J. L. Wilson DL, (213051) Lincs. Felixstowe, 12 The Meadway, Suffolk IP11 9HF. Syston, President: Col G. C. P. Morgan Leicester. DL 64 REGIMENTAL SHOP All items badged Royal Anglian

Price each Price each incl VAT incl VA T

Ash Trays — Glass...... £1.80 NI C O P with telescopic rifle...... £17.90 Badges Blazer...... £4.15 (Both types regimental badge on hat & base) C loth...... £0.35 Regimental History — Crater to The Creggan Collar Officers 1st, 2nd & 3rd Bn...... £8.50 pr H ardback...... £3.00 Lapel R ANGLIAN Association...... £1.00 Paperback...... £1.00 Mini Cap — clutch or brooch pin...... £0.95 Rubbers — white — blue badge...... £0.20 Bookmarks, leather — red, blue, green, Shields — standard R ANGLIAN...... £8.15 black & luxol...... £0.40 Wooden hand painted...... £11.70 Buttons Blazer in polished gilt — large & small..£1.20 ea Stable Belts...... £6.00 Clip Boards in blue — gold badge...... £3.85 Stickers Plastic 12” ...... £0.80 Coasters — blue leather — gold badge (set of 6)....£3.60 6” ...... £0.55 Single...... £0.60 4” ...... £0.45 Colour prints — set of 8 comprising 7 founder regts 2” ...... £0.35 in period dress & R ANGLIAN Sweat Shirts, navy, white badge on left breast drum m er...... £3.20 set sizes 36” 38” 40” & 44” ...... £ 8 .10 Single prints...... £0.40 T Shirts, white, blue badge, sizes X L, Ige, med, sm all Large print R ANGLIAN Drummer ...... £2.50 ...... £0.50 Childs 26” & 28” ...... £2.00 Large print HM The Queen Mother Navy, white badge sizes Ige & m ed...... £2.85 ...... £2.65 Tea Towels, Irish Linen...... £1.00 Cuff Links in polished gilt...... £7.00 pr C otton...... £1.60 Diary Planner Cases — blue plastic — gold badge.£0.40 Cotton showing all cap badges of the army Inserts...... £0.40 ...... £1.90 Dinner Mats — prints of founder regiments & drummer Tercentenary First Day Covers with cherry red or blue border (set of 8) (Royal Norfolk Regiment)...... £1.50 ...... £28.00 set Thimbles, bone china, gold rim, badge in blue...... £1.50 Display Binders A4 12 pockets, blue cover gold badge Tie Pin, badged...... £1.00 ...... £5.90 Ties — Regimental...... £4.30 Dusters — yellow — dark blue badge in centre...... £0.70 Torch (pen clip) — blue badge (disposable)...... £1.85 Flags — Regimental — 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th & 7th Bn Writing Case — blue leather — gold badge...... £10.65 ...... £22.55 Badges Officers' Cap...... £5.80 numerals in top corner, also plain...... £20.00 Glasses — beer mug — 1 p in t...... £1.00 Golf Tees, set of 6, blue leather case, gold badge...£1.40 Hats — Floppy, white, blue top & brim, badge centre front — sizes Ige, med & small...... £1.20 Notes: Hip Flasks, leather case, gold badge...... £7.50 1. Orders, together with remittance, cheques/postal Holdalls, canvas, waterproof lining, blue badge....£6.15 orders made payable to “The Royal Anglian Ice Bucket Drum...... £12.70 Regiment Association” to RHQ The Royal Anglian Key Fobs, gold badge, red, blue, green, black & luxol Regiment, The Keep, Gibraltar Barracks, Bury St...... £0.40 Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3RN. Mugs — coffee — white, badged in yellow & black£0.95 2. Postage extra for overseas orders, rates on Pewter Tankards, 1 pint, engraved badge...... £7.20 application lo RHQ. Pewter Figures, combat dress with SLR or SMG..£16.60 3. All prices subject to manufacturer's increases.

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