MainThe Official Magazine of RAF HaltonpointSummer 2016

ROYAL DOUBLE FOR RAF HALTON

Mainpoint Summer 2016 1 STATION SNIPPETS | COMMUNITY | ROYAL VISIT “An ancient coaching inn dating back to 1578 set in the picturesque village of , . A traditional English pub and restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine.

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MainThe Official Magazine of RAF HaltonpointSummer 2016 Station Commander’s ForewordForeword

Group Captain A S Burns MSc MA BSc RAF

One team, training people for Defence ROYAL DOUBLE FOR RAF HALTON

Mainpoint Summer 2016 1 STATION SNIPPETS | COMMUNITY | ROYAL VISIT Editorial Team

Editor FS Gaz Smith IMLC DS Airmen’s Command Squadron Tel: 01296 656156 Email: [email protected]

Deputy Editors Cpl Lucky Smart Regional Medical Centre Tel: 01296 656023 Email: DPHCC-HAL- [email protected]

Cpl Glen Walcuch SMTW Tel:01296 656606 Email: [email protected]

Distribution Courtesy of the Central Registry and Fire Section

Photography Support Kate Rutherford, Chris Yarrow & Luka Waycott. Tel: 01296 656117 Publishing Team Published Lance Publishing Limited, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 512624 Email: [email protected] Visit: www.lancepublishing.co.uk

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Email: [email protected] Welcome to the sums up all that makes Halton an successes and output delivered Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk Summer edition of amazing camp and one that I have in that time. It may not be terribly been delighted and humbled to British to embrace such pride in Disclaimer: Mainpoint. Command for the last 2 years. I success, but nonetheless TY all - it This publication is copyright Lance Publishing sadly depart in the Summer and would not have happened without Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written ummer is here and with while I really would rather stay I all of you working together as a permission of Lance Publishing Limited. While it another Mainpoint. This leave knowing that RAF Halton’s Whole Force team. So as a people every care has been taken during the preparation edition brings a number of reputation both within the RAF and orientated, output focussed of this magazine, Lance Publishing Limited cannot S stories together that highlight the in the wider community remains individual I ask that you all have be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it. Views achievements of our people – be it strong. The Station has had to face a good Summer, spend time Expressed in this publication are not necessarily in their primary activities, secondary a number of challenges in the last with loved ones and be ready to those of the or the Ministry of duties, sporting achievements, or 2 years but I would ask everyone come back refreshed and ready to Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless otherwise stated. charitable endeavours. In sum, it reading to reflect back upon the continue to deliver amazingly.

4 Mainpoint Summer 2016 Contents Summer 2016

STATION SNIPPETS COMMUNITY & CHARITY SPORTS

6 Royal visitor to RAF Halton 17 SATT’s support “Tring railway and 28 RAF launches branded sportswear museum.” to all regular and reservist phase 7 Lord Trenchard becomes patron of one trainees Halton Heritage 16 Community plant trees together 29 RAF Halton Corporal assists in 8 Royal Double for RAF Halton 18 Station clean up International Paralympic World Cup Finals. 9 CAS visits RAF Halton 19 RAF Halton support Search Dogs Buckinghamshire. 12 Recruit training staff raise money for the Pink Ribbon Foundation 19 RAF Sgt and search dog find missing man 13 AOTYA 24 VASR 16 RAF Halton turning the heat up at the Malta Marathon 25 Emily joins the Conservation Team at RAF Halton

Mainpoint Summer 2016 5 Station snippets

ROYAL VISITOR TO RAF HALTON

er Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall, the H Honorary of RAF Halton visited the Station on 28 April 2016. Accompanied by Adrian Burns, Station Commander, she visited the Station’s Trinity Community Centre where she met the welfare staff and joined the children enjoying the many activities in the Centre. The Duchess also met a cross- section of Station personnel at a reception in , Officers’ Mess. The visit concluded with a fly-past by an aircraft from 230 Squadron, RAF Benson.

Wing Commander Niki Stacey said: “It was a privilege to welcome HRH The Duchess of Cornwall to RAF Halton. The visit offered our Welfare team the opportunity to show the wide range of support services and facilities available to our military personnel and their families, and for our Honorary Air Commodore to meet with many of our families, as well as personnel from across the Whole Force.” 6 Mainpoint Summer 2016 Station snippets

LORD TRENCHARD BECOMES PATRON OF HALTON HERITAGE AF Halton is not only synonomous centre within a visit organised by Gp Capt with training, which encompasses RAF (Retd) ‘Min’ Larkin, one of many retired local Rrecruit training, specialist training, Phase volunteers who devote so much of their time 2 training as well as command management and efforts in preserving the myriad of sites, and leadership training; it is also the Home memorials and museum activities on and for Sport for many RAF sports. As well as this, around the Buckinghamshire base. A plaque another aspect of RAF Halton is the heritage it commemorating the event was presented holds from the earliest days of aviation. In 1913, to Lord Trenchard by OIC Halton Heritage, a the previous owners, the Rothchilds, invited post which sits with OC Ops and Plans Wg, Kitchener’s Army and the pre-RAF aviators to currently Wg Cdr Ray Morley MBE RAF. train there.The RAF has been training there since its inception in 1918 and much of its On the day, Lord Trenchard conveyed his early development was determined by the thanks for what he described as ‘a wonderful vision of Viscount, Lord Trenchard, colloquially day’ as he was ‘most honoured to be the known as the ‘father of the RAF’ who set up Patron of Halton Heritage’. He stated in a the RAF Aircraft Apprentices Training School speech how proud he was and spoke of in 1920. The Halton heritage and its huge the strong feelings he had for Halton due amount of artefacts which colour its long and to the special place it had with his family illustrious history are now preserved by no less much of which was reflected in the various than 4 committees: the Heritage Committee memorabilia which he still had from that which is accompanied by the committees of which his grandmother had kept. He paid the Trenchard Museum, Halton House and the tribute to the various ex-serving RAF personnel WW1 Trenches Committees. whose hard work and impressive knowledge made Halton Heritage what is was today. How fitting then that RAF Halton recently sought a new Patron to its wide and varied OIC Heritage, Wg Cdr Morley said: “We are heritage estate in the form of the 3rd delighted, there can be no more appropriate Viscount, Lord Hugh Trenchard, Honorary Air and fitting patron for Halton Heritage than Commodore and the grandson of the father of Lord Trenchard.” he added: “We look forward the RAF, no less. The occasion of him accepting to inviting Lord Trenchard back again as it this accolade took place on Monday 09 May takes so long to see and appreciate all of 16 at RAF Halton’s Groves Flight Heritage Halton’s Heritage.

Mainpoint Summer 2016 7 Station snippets

ROYAL DOUBLE FOR RAF HALTON

AF Halton personnel were children are lining the streets and Cpl ‘Barney’ Barnett from Drill and rehearsals were on Royal duty again recently thoroughly enjoying themselves.” Ceremonial at Recruit Training minimal, and I only R when Her Majesty the Queen Squadron, said: “I had the honour walked the ground visited Berkhamsted in honour of Servicemen Awaiting Trade Training and privilege of SATT’s to parade with the troops on the her 90th birthday celebrations. (SATT’s) personnel, AC’s Sian Taylor, for HM the Queen, representing morning of the visit, Rowen Pearce, Chelsea Owen RAF Halton during a visit to explaining where they As part of RAF Halton’s engagement and Shanice Sankey Wood said Berkhamsted. I was informed of would be stood and activity the Station was invited they were proud to have assisted the visit three weeks prior to the informing them of to provide personnel to help on such a brilliant day. Sian, who date, but due to the nature of it, their duties. The visit Hertfordshire Police with the visit, comes from Rochdale, said: “I was I had to minimise informing all took place without a providing assistance with crowd only told yesterday that I was going personnel involved so the SATT’s glitch and all the SATT’s management and other ceremonial to stand by the car as the Queen had no knowledge who they agreed that this was the duties along Her Majesty’s route. arrived and salute her, then again were parading for until two days best day of their lives, I Hertfordshire’s Police and Crime by the church door as she left. You prior to the actual job. took great satisfaction Commissioner, Chief Constable don’t expect to be saluting the in making this possible Andy Bliss, said: “We are grateful Queen so soon in your military “On request from the Palace, for them. The memory to RAF Halton for assisting over career but it’s been a massive there had to be an even split of Parading for our 250 police officers, carrying out honour.” of females and males, so five of Sovereign so early in a number of different functions each were duly selected and their career will stay today, and in the lead up to the visit. Her Majesty carried out a number researched the route using with them forever. I felt This is a celebration and the turn- of local engagements after the Google maps and Google street immensely proud to be out of local people is amazing, the church service. view. Due to time constraints, part of that.”

8 Mainpoint Summer 2016 CAS Station snippets VISITS RAF HALTON hief of the Air Staff, Air During the visit Group Captain personnel to the highest Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Burns also surprised him with a standard for duties in support C Pulford, visited RAF Halton birthday cake before he officiated of the UK’s Defence Strategy at recently to act as the Reviewing at the parade. home and abroad. This includes Officer for the Graduation Parade basic RAF recruit training, of 565 Beckett Intake at Recruit Background Information: RAF management & leadership and Training Squadron. Halton was established in the a wide variety of other specialist first days of the fledgling RAF in training roles. RAF Halton is also Accompanied by Station 1918. Prior to this, the land was home to many lodger units from Commander, Group Captain used by the Army for flying and across Defence contributing to Adrian Burns, he toured the training troops with permission current operations. Many RAF Station, visiting classroom and of Alfred de Rothschild until the Sports Associations reside on site accommodation facilities before War Office bought the estate along with an active military grass meeting with Recruit Training in 1919. Today RAF Halton is airstrip where flying has taken Squadron staff and Servicemen home to service personnel of all place continually since 1913. Awaiting Trade Training (SATT’s). three services, civil service and Defence contractors. Its main role Other Information can be is to train found at www.raf.mod.uk and www.facebook.com/ RoyalAirForceHalton

Mainpoint Summer 2016 9

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www.lanceprint.co.uk Station snippets RAF Halton Recruit Training Staff raise money for

hysical Training Instructors at RAF Halton, and members of the RAF THE PINK RIBBON P Ladies Football Team, recently took part in a gruelling physical challenge, in memory of Sgt Lynsey Miller (Secretary of the RAF Ladies Football Team), who FOUNDATION passed away suddenly in January this year after a short battle with breast cancer. The event raised money for the Pink Ribbon Foundation, at the request of Lynsey’s family. The 24 hour event took place at the Finlay Gym where participants completed twenty four, fifteen minute workouts, on the hour, every hour. The events were planned by a mixture of Recruit Training Squadron (RTS) staff and recruits. Many seemed to take this as an opportunity to ‘get their own back’ on the instructors, resulting in very demanding sessions such as 15 minutes of Tabata rowing (twenty seconds max effort, ten seconds recovery, repeated thirty times), a 1.5 mile best effort run followed by burpees at 0300, and of course, many, many more burpees! The event started at noon on Thursday 24 March, and finished at noon on Friday 25 March. Cpl Zara McIntosh, who played football with Lynsey said: “After several seasons playing football with Lynsey aka ‘Big Bird’, I’m sure she would be more inclined to drink a pint of beer on the hour, every hour for 24 hours, rather than be in the gym! It was however, a great opportunity to raise money for a very worthy cause.” The Pink Ribbon Foundation is a grant making trust with a mission to fund projects and provide financial support to UK charities which relieve the needs of people who are suffering from, or who have been affected by breast cancer or who work to advance the understanding of breast cancer, its early detection and treatment. The Foundation has very little infrastructure and relies on the hard work given by trustees, interested parties and its patrons. This is done in order to maximise the amount which goes to the charities that benefit from the funds raised. Cpl Ryan Hepworth said: “All the sessions were tough and on their own would ordinarily be a good workout for the day, but to do one every hour was horrendous. The sessions in the night were particularly hard with little, if any sleep, so trying to complete the simplest of exercises was a challenge. Running hill reps at midnight in the pouring down rain stands out as one of the worst sessions!” In total, ten participants took part in the event, and completed thousands of repetitions, including over 5,000 burpees, 10,000 squats, and 5,000 press ups. Ultimately, thanks to the generosity of those at RTS, friends and family, the participants managed to raise over £600 for a truly deserving charity.

12 Mainpoint Summer 2016 Station snippets

AOTYARAF APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARDS CEREMONY he RAF Apprenticeships scheme and its apprentices Tare celebrating nearly 100 years of history, tradition and excellence by delivering specialist ground crew capable of supporting today’s expeditionary Royal Air Force. The concept may be traced back to Lord Hugh Trenchard and the birth of the Royal Air Force and it was fitting that this year’s awards ceremony was held at RAF Halton during National Apprenticeship week. The ceremony which was held in the Mess with Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’Mess and showcased, ‘The Best of the Best’ and whilst it is undoubtedly a day to celebrate the winners it was also the opportunity to acknowledge the Officers Commanding the Ground Training Schools, their staff, Apprenticeship Centres and the Main Operating Base’s line managers for providing an unrivalled standard of training and guidance. Air Vice Marshall AM Turner, AOC 22(Trg) Gp, presented the awards and said of the event: “It was fabulous again to present a glittering array of awards to the finest of our young airman and airwomen. Their technical prowess is beyond question but what is especially noteworthy is how engaged they are beyond their immediate work and in what the Royal Air Force can offer”. SAC Colin Appleton, who won a Personal Achievement Award said: “It was a real surprise to win an award especially with my learning difficulties and I know my parents are really proud”. Colin’s parents Gill and Keith echoed his sentiments when his Mum said: “It’s unbelievable what he has achieved in the RAF and we’re very proud of him”. Award Winners Advance Apprenticeship: Runner-up: SAC Burke - Logistics Highly Commended: Gp Gapt (Rtd) Duncan Grant Winner: SAC Elkerton - ICT Technician, (Supplier), Fuels and Lubricants, RAF Recipient: SAC Goodman - General from the RAF Halton Apprentice iHub, RAF Brize Norton. Marham. Technician (Electrical), General Association summed up the Winner: SAC Yorke - Survival Runner-up: SAC Burns - Logistics Engineering Flight, RAF Lossiemouth. event when he said: ”I found Equipment Fitter, Survival Equipment (Supplier), Logistics Sqn, RAF Recipient: SAC Stanley - Survival every story inspiring and not just Section, RAF Brize Norton. Waddington. Equipment Fitter, 3AAC, Wattisham in the technical aspect but also Runner-up: SAC(T) Entwistle - Aircraft Flying Station. in the personal and leadership Technician (Mechanical), 9 Sqn, RAF Personal Achievement Awards: aspect and it was nice to see Marham. Recipient: SAC Appleton - General RAF Halton Apprentice their families supporting them”. Technician Workshop, Station Association - Best No1 SoTT The Association presented an Intermediate Apprenticeship: Workshops, RAF Lossiemouth. Apprentice additional award at the ceremony Winner: SAC Baskerville - Aircraft Recipient: SAC Phillips-Tarr - Logistics Winner: SAC(T) Gunter - Aircraft for the Best Apprentice trained at Maintenance Mechanic (AMM), 2 (Caterer), WO & Sgts Mess, RAF Technician (Avionics), 18 Squadron, No1 School of Technical Training. Sqn, RAF Lossiemouth. Odiham. RAF Odiham.

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Mainpoint Summer 2016 15 Station snippets RAF Halton turning the heat up at the Malta Marathon

ith the success of the 2015 event now a W distant memory, it was only right that Malta Marathon 2016 be afforded to those who missed out last year. Therefore, along with an enthusiastic team Without much more to do, the from RAF Marham, team Halton, anticipated 0500 on Sunday comprising of 15 personnel, morning had arrived. Early to underwent a programme of breakfast, followed by a short stroll training assured that the dark, in the early morning darkness for cold hills of Wendover will be the coach transfer. Safe to say there exchanged for the warm and were some unimpressed faces sunny (down) hills of Malta. as the realisation of what they had signed up to had arrived. The With record numbers predicted for coach headed north west to the the 31st annual Malta Marathon, start area; the historic site of Mdina, it continues to attract worldwide tracing back more than 4000 years, popularity, it truly is an event to be but today, in all its majestic glory a part of. Varying in standards and and at Malta’s highest point, some with the option to run the full, the 200m high, it is the start of the half or join a walkathon, the event Malta Marathon 2016. is Malta’s main sporting spectacle to raise money for local charities Although cool, the early morning as the valleys and sleepy towns of sun reminded us all how warm this tranquil tiny Mediterranean things will soon get. A light sightseeing all the way, passing moored following filming around island transform into 26.2 miles breeze was very welcome through the historic town of the island, crowds were gathering of running bliss, well.... for and as start time approached, Mosta, itself a notable place in for the final mile to Sliema front. some anyway! the weather had settled into history boasting an unexploded Hours earlier it was dark and a gentle spring like morning 500lb German bomb. cool but now the warm spring All the talk and promise of with sunshine, light winds and sun welcomed runners home, to sunshine and warm winter climbing temperatures. Worrying With the temperatures now refreshments, medical aid and as temperatures were a point for running conditions for some, reaching the ‘early summer’ impressive as last year, a rather some heated discussion for the but at least the excitement and scale, the thousands of runners heavy commemorative medal. 2015 event given that the UK anticipation was setting in. With struggled on and from Mosta was probably enjoying better a final dash to the toilet, bags it was along the regional and Both teams succeeded with weather, but, for 2016 the talk and dropped, good luck gestures undulating bypass to Malta’s excellent timings, including the promise of warm winter sunshine passed, the gun went off and capital city of Valletta. With the fastest at 3hrs 15 mins up to lived up to its reputation. The we were on our way. The route gates to the city just ahead it was around the 5 hr mark, but no entire duration on the island was was unchanged from 2015 but a steep left turn down the hill to injuries and smiles all around. An a reminder of just how warm a the sunnier weather made the the Pieta harbour, honeymoon evening award ceremony ensued Mediterranean winter can be and views truly incredible. With a town to the then Princess to recognise individual personal was becoming quite a concern for predominantly downhill start Elizabeth and Prince Phillip but achievements and as both teams marathon day. from the city gates into the more to the point, a welcoming enjoyed a celebratory meal, the valleys below, scenes from the sea breeze. Running along the talk was of no less, 2017……… With the itinerary ensuring blockbuster movies Gladiator and marina, following the coastline enough time to prepare, both Troy were instantly recognisable it was now a mere 3 miles to My fourth year on this event Halton and Marham underwent to the movie buffs. Onward to the roaring crowds gathered on and Malta delivered once again some Force Development, visiting small villages with gathering Sliema front. Thoughts of having and, with aspirations to have WWII sites around the capital city well-wishers, banners flying, to run the equivalent of the unit representation from across of Valletta and a tour of the silent bands playing and fuel stops ‘Wendover Loop’ provided that the UK, this marathon promises city, the start line for the race. Our plentiful, it wasn’t long before the much needed mental adjustment to be popular for all standards. team was ready, no injuries, some running flow had set in. Onward to finish the gruelling distance in Well done to both Marham and weather related anxieties; just lots to the National Stadium and US one piece. Supporting event staff Halton. Next year interested of carb loading meals to be had Embassy before joining the half were kept very busy along these parties already include Cosford and, for those really going for it, a marathon runners heading east final miles, sponges and water and Henlow to join us on mild 10K along the coast line just across the heart of Malta to the stands proved crucial for most. what promises to be another to get those legs working. coastal town of Sliema. It was Passing the ‘Black Pearl’ now fantastic event.

16 Mainpoint Summer 2016 Community and Charity

SATT’S SUPPORT TRING RAILWAY AND MUSEUM

ervicemen Awaiting Trade believed that the stones were Training (SATT’s), from used for reconstruction work S RAF Halton have assisted but one of them was recently Tring Museum with moving found on an allotment. an historic stone sleeper from Tring Railway Station back to The SATT’s, AC’s Wilkinson, the Museum. Simmons, Wellings, McDonald and O’Sullivan stepped in to In the 1830’s, Tring Railway help and last week, led by station was part of the first long Sgt Davies, were tasked to aid distance intercity railway in Tring Local History Museum the world which ran between in the transportation of the London and Birmingham, stone to the museum. Sgt with 165,000 tonnes of stones Davies said: “The stone was being laid three feet apart as bigger and heavier than we a platform for the railway to thought, it took six of us to lift sit on. it on to a pallet and on to the low loader vehicle supplied by These stones were laid as the museum. When we got to engineers believed the track the museum we lifted it back needed to be solid, but the off and slid it into place. When services of these stones were the task was complete the short lived due to the newly volunteers deemed it necessary introduced steam locomotives that the stone was placed as they were too heavy and outside of the museum for all the stones had no flexibility. to see. A job very well done.” By comparing previous railway lines, the engineers realised The volunteers were extremely wood was a better alternative grateful with the support they being more flexible and received from RAF Halton requiring less maintenance, and as a result of the help hence the original stones were the community can now disregarded and replaced appreciate the history of Tring with wooden sleepers. It was Railway Station.

Mainpoint Summer 2015 17 Community and Charity COMMUNITY PLANT TREES TOGETHER community tree planting event took place recently at AHaddington Play Park and residents from both Haddington Road and Princess Mary Gate Estate took part. Haddington Road is a military married quarter estate whereas Princess Mary Gate Estate is the new estate that has grown since Princess Mary’s Hospital was demolished. Wilma Kingsbury, Community Support Officer at RAF Halton and organiser, said: “A total of 12 trees and 20 smaller plants were planted. This included three apple trees and a pear tree, which local children planted for future generations to come. The trees and plants were chosen for shade, interest and to encourage wildlife to the area.” Mr and Mrs Grannon, residents from the estate, planted two trees and dedicated their planting to her father. Mrs Grannon said that she: “Hoped that the shade and shelter offered by the trees would benefit all those that use the park. It’s been such a great way to spend an afternoon with the children.” Nevaeh Nicol was probably too young to understand the implications of planting a tree for future generations, but mum was pleased that her daughter had been given the opportunity, and it will be a reminder in years to come as they both watch the trees growing. Young Charlie Barrett helped the planting and his mum, Sally, said: “Thank you for letting us know about the planting. We are very pleased and proud of Charlie for helping you.”

18 Mainpoint Summer 2016 Community and Charity Station RAF HALTON SUPPORT Clean up SEARCH DOGS BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

ith the permission of the On the day, the weather was kind Station Commander, and very quickly the Station was W Group Captain Adrian a buzz of painting, cleaning and Burns, the Station Warrant Officer, good old ‘spit and polish’. Everyone WO Jake Alpert, organised worked hard but particular credit a Station Clean-Up Day. The must be given to the Servicemen intention was to improve the Awaiting Trade Training; their appearance of areas of the Station youthful enthusiasm was quite whilst encouraging team spirit infectious. After a short period of throughout the Whole Force. training, many proved themselves adept at painting walls and kerb stones. One old sage who witnessed the airmen painting in the area of Maitland Parade Square was heard muttering: “It’s just like the good old days at Halton”. After the Clean-Up Day all the participants were invited to the Warrant Officer’s & Sergeant’s Mess where they were rewarded with some much deserved refreshments. s one of the nominated would like to say a special RAF Halton Station thank you to Sgt Tony Wood A Charities, operational and members of Initial team members from Search Force Protection Training Dogs Buckinghamshire were Flight for raising £1200 in presented with a cheque a single event specifically by the Station Commander for the charity where they recently. completed a loaded march and obstacle course. Search Dogs Buckinghamshire appreciate the continued Photograph: support from RAF Halton, Stn Cdr with Sqn Ldr Ali especially their generous Sanderson and Sgt Gaz donation, use of station real Elliot (Search Dogs Bucks estate for training, and they Volunteers)

RAF SGT AND SEARCH DOG FIND MISSING MAN ark Procter, aged 55, the rescue Gaz said: “Seeing recently went missing the missing person re-united, M from his home in safe and well is what we do Wallingford but was found the job for.” 2 weeks later by specialist volunteer dog handler Sgt Gaz Gaz and his wife and fellow Elliott and search dog, Beau. team member, Sqn Ldr Ali Beau is a four year old Springer Sandeman, Defence Centre Spaniel and Gaz and Beau of Training Support, RAF are members of the Lowland Halton, have had Beau for Rescue Team. four years and have trained him themselves to The Like all Lowland Rescue search Association of Lowland dogs, Beau is also a family pet, Search and Rescue (ALSAR) trained by his owners over national search standards. the course of several years to national standards. Gaz recently The Lowland Search and left Initial Force Protection Rescue Team would like to Training at RAF Halton and say a huge thank you to was about to join the Military all of their supporters and Search School at Bicester, when donors who keep their team he was asked to participate in delivering life-saving results the search for Mr Procter. After like this.

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JMWCar Finance CARS Specialist We can achieve finance for people with: • CCJ’s • Previously made bankrupt • Mortgage Arrears • Self Employed • Missed Council Tax Payments • No Credit History • Defaults • In debt management • Income as Benefits & or have IVA’s Tax Credits (min £900) • Not on Electoral • Part Time Employment Register SERVICE PERSONNEL OFFERS AVAILABLE We also use companies that take all benefits as an income unlike most lenders! Lots of choice for all budgets. Call 01494 436228 or 01494 842701 for more information! www.jmw-cars.co.uk Cars also bought for cash © shutterstock 2016 / user: Mopic 22 Mainpoint Summer 2016 ROZELLE Fowler SCHOOL of DANCE Electrical Ltd Pack Horse ~ Ballet ~ Tap ~ Domestic and Commercial Electricians • Rewiring A public house which has been in ~ Theatre Craft ~ • Security Lighting • Emergency Lighting • Fuse Boxes • Outdoor the family for 52 years, with SKY Classes for children Electrical Wiring and Surveys Sports, darts, dominoes and crib. from 3 years • Landlord Safety Certificates • Installations and PAT Testing Tap Classes for adults • Design & Testing ‘Good Beer Guide’ Wendover Memorial Hall • Free Quotes & Surveys Wharf Road • NICEIC Approved Contractor Pub since 2002 For information For FREE quote call Tel: 01296 622001 [email protected] 01296 655504 The White Swan A small cosy village pub, in Wendover High St with darts and Sky Sports. Owned by the Gower family and run by a friendly young couple, Paul & Mel who will always give you a warm welcome. Pack Horse 29 Tring Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6NR Tel: 01296 622075 The White Swan 18 High Street, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6EA Tel: 01296 622271

Mainpoint Summer 2016 23 Community and Charity

VASRHORSING AROUND FOR THE VALE OF AYLESBURY SPONSORED RIDE he Vale of Aylesbury event, proceeds go to a number Sponsored Ride (VASR) has of local and RAF charities. Ttaken place on RAF Halton’s land and surrounding areas again The ride has been taking place for this March. Sponsored by RAF many years now, some in blazing Halton, the seven mile charity sunshine and others in snow event over 50 country fences, blizzards, with a field of 200 riders normally attracts a large audience taking part and one of the jumps from the equine world. After the being over a Jet Provost Mark 5.

Second from left is John Yarroll, Chairman of the Sponsored Ride, next to Station Commander Group Captain Adrian Burns and other organisers at the start of the race.

24 Mainpoint Summer 2016 Community and Charity EMILY JOINS THE CONSERVATION TEAM AT RAF HALTON

mily Haddock was these boxes as blue head of Health and great tits are now E& Safety in the surveying them for the Station, Safety Health breeding season. If the and Environment bird decides that it likes Agency until October the box, then over six last year and during that weeks they will start time became a trainee building their nests and bird ringer under the laying eggs. guidance of Dave Short from the MT Section. May I also remind Recently, Emily has everyone that it is been assisting Dave illegal to disturb the with putting up nesting birds or the nest once boxes around the it has been started Station. Dave said: “It’s and also to handle been a busy time of year any eggs or chicks as but can I just remind all doing this could cause the conservation site the bird to desert the readers who may have a nest. If anybody wants nesting box up in their help or advice then Emily just having finished siting a small open fronted gardens that now is the they can email me on nest box for Robins, hidden deep inside a Laylandii time to start watching [email protected] .“ tree near to the Dental Centre.

Mainpoint Summer 2016 25 Aylesbury Vale Golf Club To advertise in the next issue of this publication Special Green Fee Rates for RAF personnel Just £15 with your ID card (normal fee £24 - £34) Challenging tree-lined course Please contact RAF reduced membership rates - pay monthly - no contracts Tammie

Aylesbury Vale Golf Club Tel: Stewkley Road, Wing, LU7 0UJ 01536 526667 01525 240196 Email: [email protected] tammie@ www.avgc.co.uk lancepublishing.co.uk

26 Mainpoint Summer 2016 www.genies.co.uk

Jewellery designed and produced to your specifications, or choose from our extensive range of new, The Bucks Goat Centre, secondhand and antique pieces. Stoke Mandeville, Bucks, HP22 5XJ Tel: 01296 614605

P. KERNAN TREE SURGERY All aspects of tree work undertaken Hedges maintained Fully qualified, fully insured Servicing of Rolex, Tag, Omega, Raymond Weil, Local authority approved: Gucci etc. Batteries fitted and waterproof Free estimates, Firewood for sale Tel: 01296 330501 testing carried out on the premises. Direct 07763 073663 94 Tring Road, Wendover, HP22 6NX Top prices paid in cash for antique and www.pkernantreesurgeons.com modern jewellery, watches (especially Rolex), coins, gold, silver, platinum and scrap precious metals. Part exchange available. Force One Air Conditioning is a Buckinghamshire based company with over 30 years experience in providing a complete solution for commercial & domestic air conditioning applications using the latest technology and Experienced Qualified Engineers. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE • 5% VAT on Domestic Installations • Competitive Pricing • Energy Saving Systems • Qualified Experienced Engineers Tel: 01296 393932 Fax: 01296 399338 [email protected] 17 Albert Street, Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 1LY www.forceoneaircon.co.uk Mainpoint Summer 2016 27 Sports RAF LAUNCHES BRANDED SPORTSWEAR TO ALL REGULAR AND RESERVIST PHASE ONE TRAINEES

rom 1 April 2016, the RAF material with distinctive RAF Beckett Flight at RAF Halton has issued a new unisex, branding. Air Vice Marshal AM wore the sportswear for the first F branded sportswear to all Turner, AOC 22(Trg) Gp, said time and all agreed that the kit Regular and Reservist Phase 1 of the kit: “It’s fantastic to see was excellent quality, comfortable Trainees attending, Initial Officer this Royal Air Force branded PT and it felt good being able Training, Specialist Entry and kit rolling out. It will make our to wear highly distinctive re-entry and Recruit Training recruits and cadets feel proud sportswear. The sportswear will School. The sportswear issue and belonging to the Service be issued as a free first issue to comprised of two sets of branded from day one and it will help all regular and Reservist Phase 1 sport shirts and shorts made us project the Royal Air Force trainees and thereafter it will be of modern, breathable wicking everywhere”. Recruits from available via private purchase.

28 Mainpoint Summer 2016 RAF HALTON Sports CORPORAL ASSISTS IN INTERNATIONAL PARALYMPIC WORLD CUP FINALS

AF Halton Corporal Gary The guide needs to learn quickly Smith, TG4 ICT Tech, spent in order to build trust and R four weeks training and rapport with the athlete and racing as a guide with visually their results demonstrate Cpl impaired Paralympic gold Smith’s ability to do this. He says medallist Kelly Gallagher in of guiding: “It’s a challenging Aspen, Colorado. Prior to their yet rewarding experience which first competitive race in Aspen requires a lot of communication they had less than two weeks and trust but one that I am training together. In this short thoroughly enjoying”. period of time however, the partnership showed real promise The pair have been supported with the pair competing in all by the wider Para Snowsports four disciplines and medalling in GB staff including a skilled all including; gold in the Slalom, coaching team, physio, sport silver and bronze in the Giant psychologist and an onsite chef, Slalom, bronze in the Downhill all which have provided valuable and bronze in the Super G at the contributions to their success. IPC World Cup Finals. Kelly and Cpl Smith also Kelly Gallagher was feeling very competed together at the British optimistic with the partnership Championships in Tignes, France and thinks that Cpl Gary Smith at the end of March, which will has the appropriate qualities finish off this season as they look which are needed to guide her forward to the next two years competitively and is hopeful of preparation with the aim of that they can maintain their participating at PyeongChang partnership for the next Winter Paralympics 2018. Paralympic games which take place in 2018 in PyeongChang, South Korea.

Mainpoint Summer 2016 29 OTEC provide top class, professional services for cyclists of all During that period I enrolled in a degree course studying Sports levels, Mechanical support, Bike Fitting, Sales, Repairs, Training, Science and Education. Upon completion of my degree, I earned Coaching, Event Support and Corporate Services. my coaching and teaching qualifications and subsequently worked as a coach and teacher for almost 20 years. I work with individuals, professional cycle teams, world class athletes, local businesses and both National and international I returned to the cycling trade full time in 2013 with ATG Training, organisations such as the MOD, NHS and GE healthcare. where I was a trainer, assessor and internal verifier for the Level 2 and 3 engineering apprentice programme and specifically for the I offer a mobile service and also a new shop based at Halton CYTEC qualification, which is the only cycle-specific qualification UK (tennis centre) – fantastic parking and a great place to get a advocated by the Association of Cycle Traders in the UK and coffee or a bite to eat if you are waiting for a repair. internationally. In this role I worked all over the UK and was per- sonally responsible for looking after the market leaders in cycle I sell new and also quality second hand bikes, many of these retail, manufacture and distribution, e.g. Madison/Shimano, Fishers/ come direct from teams and are unique and often have some SRAM, Rutland Cycling, Pedal on and Cycles UK. history – they also represent great value for money! I was a speaker at the Cyclex (National annual trade show) in I run Mountain Bike Instructor Training courses for those aspiring 2013 and was a representative for the National Association of instructors, personal skills coaching for individuals or groups look- Cycle Traders at ICE bike (Madison/ Shimano trade show) for 3 ing to develop their personal skills and can also offer complimen- years. I have a professional support network and access to techni- tary training such as navigation and first aid. cal information and training which will ensure I stay at the cutting edge of the industry. I have been involved with the cycle trade since finishing school and completing an engineering apprenticeship, which originally Otec Bikes Shop opened in October 2015 and is the culmination started in the motor industry and ended at a local cycle shop. I of a life spent in and around cycling – we really do: learned the trade as an apprentice mechanic and progressed to workshop supervisor and finally became the manager. At Everything Bikes, Only Better! the time I had ambitions to pursue a professional cycling career. However, a serious cycling accident, which resulted in a significant I look forward to welcoming you to the shop or meeting you on stint in Stoke Mandeville hospital and 18 month recovery, put a one of our rides, The shop is a meeting point for local rides both dramatic end to those hopes. on and off road!