SPORTS the Official Magazine Of

MainThe Official Magazine of RAF HaltonpointSummer 2017

1 Mainpoint SpringSTATION 2017 SNIPPETS | COMMUNITY AND CHARITY | SPORTS The Raj A JEWEL THAT OUTSHINES ALL OTHER RESTAURANTS! An award winning restaurant, for its outstanding achievement and contribution to the pursuit of excellent food and service.

The appreciation of spices and their various combinations is an acquired art and can only be achieved after many years of studied blending, cooking and tasting.

We would like to say a big thank you to the RAF for all their support over the years.

Collect your voucher by calling at the restaurant Excellent take away and delivery service Special set menu - from £12.95 per head (includes papadoms, chutneys, starter, main dish, side dish, rice & bread) King Prawn and House Specials £2.50 extra

23 Aylesbury Road, Wendover, Bucks HP22 6JG 01296 622567 / 696369 Mobile: 07960 862265 (24 hours) 12:00 - 2:30 & 5:30 - 11:00 (Monday - Thursday) 12:00 - 2:30 & 5:30 - 11:30 (Friday & Saturday) (Out of hours, ring mobile) © shutterstock.com / user: Joe Gough The Raj A JEWEL THAT OUTSHINES ALL OTHER RESTAURANTS! An award winning restaurant, for its outstanding achievement and contribution to the pursuit of excellent food and service.

The appreciation of spices and their various combinations is an acquired art and can only be achieved after many years of studied blending, cooking and tasting.

We would like to say a big thank you to the RAF for all their support over the years.

Editorial Team Station Commander’s Foreword Editor Sgt Dee Anning Logistics Specialist Training Wing HQ Tel: 07786 662956 Gp Capt J P Brayshaw LLB(Hons) FCIPD RAF Email: [email protected] Deputy Editors One team, training people for Defence Cpl Lucy Smart Regional Medical Centre Tel: 01296 656023 Welcome to the Summer was the Freedom of Wendover Email: DPHCC-HAL- 2017 edition of Mainpoint. parade, followed shortly after [email protected] by the fantastic day long events s I write Spring is on 24 May celebrating the Sgt Glen Walcuch replacement of our Station Logistics Specialist Training Wing HQ definitely turning to Queens’ Colour and Royal Tel: 01296 656872 A Summer, with longer Email: [email protected] and much welcome warmer Graduation parade; all of which days. This edition brings a was executed to perfection. Distribution number of stories together that Our Honorary Air Commodore, Courtesy of the Central Registry highlight the achievements of HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, and Fire Section our people - be it in their primary was immensely proud of what activities, additional voluntary she saw on her visit to present Photography Support activities, sporting achievements, our Queens’ Colours and clear evidence that the important Kate Rutherford, Chris Yarrow or charitable endeavours. wholeheartedly enjoyed meeting element of having ‘fun’ at work is & Luka Waycott. as many people as she could in Tel: 01296 656117 The content of this magazine alive and kicking; enjoying and demonstrates but a flavour of the time allowed on the day. making work enjoyable at Halton the breadth of activity across should be a priority for all of us, Publishing Team the Station and is certainly not In the training environments whatever level we operate at. exclusive of everything that has across the Station we have, and is going on. over the last few months, Equally, and recognising how Published been exceptionally busy and hard the people of this Station Lance Publishing Limited, 1st Floor, For me, just over 6 months in post successfully achieved all our work, it is very important to me Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, I find myself frequently reflecting annual training targets, whilst that we all have the space to take Northants, NN16 8NL on the privilege of Command, at the same time continuously a proper break - so please enjoy Tel: 01536 512624 the amazing respect with which improving our courses. This is a the Summer, make room (and Email: [email protected] RAF Halton and its people are testament to your hard work and enable others) to take quality Visit: www.lancepublishing.co.uk held by our external community commitment to continuously time off with families and friends and the dignitaries or agencies I pursue excellence in all you do and of course relax. Advertising have engaged with. Most recently and reassuringly for me there is Thank you and enjoy the read. Tammie Ridler Tel: 01536 526667 Email: [email protected] Contents Summer 2017 Design STATION SNIPPETS COMMUNITY & CHARITY Lance Publishing Ltd Amanda Robinson 5 All Change at 18 Community Support 29 A Long Time Ago in a Tel: 01536 521126 RAF Halton Team News Galaxy Far, Far Away Email: amanda@ 6 Duchess of Cornwall 19 Freedom of 29 Relay for Life –Dino lancepublishing.co.uk Presents Replacement Wendover Parade Pete Spotted at Queen’s Colour 19 RAFA Wings Appeal RAF Halton Printed 8 ESS Boss Moving 21 RAF Halton Personnel 30 Annapurna Sanctuary Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon on after 20 Years Assist Training of Expedition 2017 Road, Orton Southgate, 9 Douglas Graduation Medical Detection Dogs Peterborough, PE2 6TD and WW2 Veteran Visit 22 Another Successful SPORTS Tel: 01733 390564 11 Bloodhound SSC Cool Aeronautics Event ‘Race for the Line’ 22 The Mighty 34 RAF Girls Festival Email: [email protected] Regional Finals Deerstalker 2017 of Rugby Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk 12 Supply and Movements 23 ‘Row for Rob’ Challenge 35 AF Badminton Events Training Wing Receive 23 Homeless Aid Mission at RAF Halton Disclaimer: 1* Team Commendation 35 RAF Basketball This publication is copyright Lance Publishing by Halton Personnel Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted 13 Tornado Gets a 24 The Armed Forces Association in any form in whole or in part without prior written Spruce Up permission of Lance Publishing Limited. While Region (AFR) HCPT 36 London Marathon 2017 every care has been taken during the preparation 14 Super Search Spaniel 26 Airpower Takes on 39 Malta Marathon of this magazine, Lance Publishing Limited cannot 15 Air Sports at be held responsible for accuracy of the information Wheelpower 40 RAF Rugby Union herein or for any consequence arising from it. Views RAF Halton 28 Arnold Intake (Women) Tour 2017 Expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministry of 16 WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess Volunteer at the Bucks 42 Exercise Icey Slopes Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless Functions for 2017 44 Exercise Canyon Rock otherwise stated. Railway Museum

4 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Station Snippets All Change at RAF Halton arrant Officer Jake contribution through RTS and Alpert has left the ACS to the Service is of great W post of Station importance and should not be Warrant Officer at RAF Halton be underestimated. after handing over the cane to Warrant Officer Ian Giles, Having served here at Halton for who moved over from Training the previous 18 months with 22 Development Wing to take Trg Gp, it has given me an insight the post. into the importance of the role the Station plays in support of Warrant Officer Alpert said: “It’s its Lodger units. WO Alpert is been an honour to serve at RAF a dedicated and fiercely loyal Halton as the Station Warrant Serviceman. His contribution to Officer in support of the Station’s Halton has been immense and contribution to the Royal Air there lies a challenge in itself. I Force and Defence. Over the am an RAF Regiment Gunner by past 2 years, the Station has trade, married to Tricia, with 3 continued to deliver more daughters and 6 grandchildren. than it’s asked, from Royal A former RAF and Civil Service visits to hosting high profile cricketer, now the RAF Cricket sporting events. Association Kit Manager and Senior Representative team As the senior airman at RAF manager, not forgetting a season Halton it’s been a privilege ticket holder at Derby County to work for Group Captain and keen golfer.” Brayshaw and his Command Team. I am very much looking forward to my move to Ramstein, with wife Jessica and son Jax, where I will take up the post of Command Senior Enlisted Warrant Officer to Air Command NATO.”

Group Captain Brayshaw said: “Jake has constantly guided me through the first months of my tenure. I wish him well for the new post.”

Warrant Officer Giles was warmly welcomed by the Station Commander and said: “I am exceptionally proud to be assuming the position of Station Warrant officer at RAF Halton. The Station’s

Mainpoint Summer 2017 5 Station Snippets Duchess of Cornwall Presents Replacement Queen's Colour to RAF Halton

n a beautiful sunny day my life with pride. To be chosen in May, Royal Air Force to bear the new Queen’s Colour is OHalton was honoured a personal honour for me.” Escorts to receive a visit from Her Royal for the replacement Colour were Highness, The Duchess of Colour Warrant Officer, Ian Giles, Cornwall, who presented the new and Colour Escorts Sergeant replacement Queen’s Colour Barnett and Sergeant Brister. to the Station. Guests at the parade included The retiring Colour, presented by members of the Colour Party HRH The Queen in 1997, from 1997 and other County now goes to be ‘rested’ in St dignitaries, the Lord Lieutenant Michael & All Angels Church in of Buckinghamshire, The Mayor Halton village. of Aylesbury, the present Lord Trenchard, and the Chairman Station Commander, Group of the Halton Apprentice Captain James Brayshaw, met Association. Trophy and award Her Royal Highness, who is also winners were presented their the Honorary Air Commodore prizes by the Duchess. years ago, the Queen approved a recruits to the highest standard for RAF Halton, at Halton House brand new Colour for RAF Halton seen today.” She finished by before leaving for the Henderson After the Parade she went to the which has been used at every congratulating all on the Parade Parade Square where she acted James McCudden Flight Heritage major official Station event since. saying they should rightly be as Reviewing Officer presenting Centre to meet with excited local In her address, the Duchess proud of their achievements and the new replacement Colour. school children taking part in first paid tribute to the people wished them all the very best of a Cool Aeronautics event and of Manchester affected in the British luck. The Ceremony of Consecration was invited by the children to fly recent atrocity, before saying how took place at the Graduation paper aeroplanes they had made. honoured she was to be here The Station Commander replied, Parade of No 591 Douglas Intake, Her final engagement was at a today and paid tribute to the saying: “The presentation of supported by Station personnel. reception at Halton House with excellence and professionalism of a new Royal Air Force Halton After the old Colour was marched VIP guests, trophy and award the parade, calling it a testament Queen's Colour is an historic and off the new ‘replacement’ Colour winners and their families before to the Station. She recalled Her inspiring occasion. Originally was unfurled in a Drumhead taking her leave. Majesty the Queen’s visit to the presented on the 31 Oct 97, Ceremony and consecrated Station in 1997 to present the by Her Majesty the Queen, our by the Chaplain in Chief. It The Queen’s Colour was awarded Colour which is now to be ‘rested’. Colour retains its unique status was borne by Deputy Officer to the Station for the first time The Duchess then addressed within the 9 Colours currently Commanding Recruit Training in July 1952, though that moved the families praising them for held by the Royal Air Force as the Squadron, Flight Lieutenant Scott to RAF Cosford when the No their “unstinting support along first and only one presented to a Ripley-Jones, who said: “Today is a 1 School of Technical Training with the support of the training Station in its own right, marking day I will remember for the rest of moved there in 1993. Twenty staff who trained the graduating our honoured position in the history of the service.

As we now look to the future, the new Sovereign’s Colour will be a great inspiration to others as a symbol of what this Station represents and has become. It will remind the thousands of young men and women who enter our gates each year that the safeguarding of the splendid traditions of the Royal Air Force now lies in their hands. We are grateful your Royal Highness for the honour bestowed upon us today, a day, which I am sure will be remembered for a long time to come.” RAF Halton is the gateway to the Royal Air

6 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Station Snippets

Force and is the centre for initial consecration of the new Queen's in the United Kingdom, the Royal Royal Air Force Halton on 31 Oct recruit training for all airmen and Colour commenced when Her Air Force College Cranwell and 97. Queen’s Colours are normally airwomen joining the Air Force Royal Highness presented it to No 1 School of Technical Training. replaced every 15 years. both Regular and Reserve. As the Colour Bearer. The Duchess Of the 7 current Colours, the well as presenting the Station then presented a number of first Colour was presented with its new Colour, the Duchess awards to the top recruits, taking by King George VI to the acted as the Reviewing Officer time to chat with each in turn. Royal Air Force College for the 82 Airmen and Airwomen Cranwell on 6 Jul 48. The from Douglas Intake who were The awards presented were to: second was presented graduating following an intense by The Queen (then HRH 10 week long course. AC Vanessa Dempsey – The Princess Elizabeth), acting Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund on behalf of King George VI, Families and friends of the recruits Trophy. to the Royal Air Force in the packed the grandstands which AC Millership – The Station United Kingdom on 26 May overlook the Henderson Parade Commander’s Cup. 51. The third Colour was Square and burst into applause AC Lyndsay Kidd – The Halton presented by The Queen when a Tornado GR4 aircraft Aircraft Apprentice Trophy. to No 1 School of Technical performed a special flypast, wings AC Morrison – The Halton Training on 25 Jul 52. swept back and afterburners Apprentice Shield and the Mayor aglow. The ceremony and of Aylesbury Trophy. Since then, The Queen has parade was accompanied by LAC Jack Pound – The Dusty presented Colours to: the music from the Central Band of Miller Memorial Trophy. Royal Air Force Regiment the Royal Air Force Regiment AC Sam Brookes – The Lord on 17 Mar 53; the Central under the direction of Flight Lieutenant Of Flying School on 26 Jun Lieutenant I’Anson. Buckinghamshire’s Trophy. 69; the Royal Auxiliary Air The parade comprised of 2 AC Benjamin Harris – The Force on 12 Jun 89; and Squadrons of RAF personnel. Rothschild Trophy. Douglas Intake formed the Escort Squadron, number 1 and 2 Queen’s Colours are awarded by Flights of the Parade. The Support the Sovereign in recognition of Squadron was made up 48 Service achievement and they are airmen and women of Airmen’s presented by the Sovereign or a Development Flight forming person nominated to act on the numbers 3 and 4 Flights in Sovereign’s behalf. Nine of them conjunction with 48 permanent have been awarded to formations RAF personnel drawn from across and establishments of the Royal the Station numbered 5 and Air Force and one to the Royal 6 Flights. Auxiliary Air Force. A Colour measures 3 ft 9 in square and is On completion of the fly past, affixed to a pike 8 ft 2 in in length her Royal Highness was invited surmounted by a Royal Crown forward to inspect the Escort in gold. Squadron, after which the retiring Queen's Colour was marched On 27 Dec 47, King George VI past and off the Parade Square signified approval to the award and the presentation and of Colours to the Royal Air Force

Mainpoint Summer 2017 7 Station Snippets

ESS Boss Moving on Now under new management, we will be offering the following:- after 20 years • Post Office Services • Freshly filled • Newspapers + magazines sandwiches + rolls ick Coyne, ESS manager massive task the Station took on • Post Office stationary • Hot drinks machine for 20 years has left RAF to feed the players. + groceries • Hot food to go Halton. He is staying with N We are pleased to announce that the the Compass Group and taking Nick said: “There weren’t really shop has a Post Office service for on project work at Sandhurst any low times, just fantastic their customers. initially, until he takes up a new opportunities to be had and I Halton Stores & Post Office Rowborough Road, Halton Bucks HP22 5PL position elsewhere. delivered because I had such an incredible team who always Tel: 01296 696910 Nick started at RAF Halton as a delivered for me and they are trainee chef in the Sgts' Mess, he what I will miss.” progressed on to chef manager, and moved up to become the Wing Commander Niki Stacey, Station’s catering manager. OC Support Wing, couldn’t Four years ago he became the praise Nick enough for his manager of RAF High Wycombe dedication and said: “This is as well, running both sites. principally an end of an era as Nick has worked as part of our Nick recalls one of the highlights Whole Force Team ethos. of his time here as being the His outstanding commitment International Defence Rugby to RAF Halton has made him Championships, with teams a superb team member. We from as far away as Canada, wish him well for the future and Australia, Tonga and New whatever else is in store Zealand visiting to play and the for him.”

P. KERNAN TREE SURGERY All aspects of tree work undertaken Hedges maintained Fully qualified, fully insured Local authority approved: Free estimates, Firewood for sale Tel: 01296 330501 Direct 07763 073663 94 Tring Road, Wendover, HP22 6NX www.pkernantreesurgeons.com

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

8 Mainpoint Summer 2017 ROZELLE Station Snippets SCHOOL of DANCE ~ Ballet ~ Tap ~ Douglas Graduation and WW2 Veteran Visit ~ Theatre Craft ~ Classes for children from 3 years Tap Classes for adults

Wendover Memorial Hall Wharf Road For information Tel: 01296 622001 [email protected]

Shoe Repairs, Key Cutting, Sports Trophies & Engraving

Also dry cleaning & watch batteries ntry No. 585, Douglas performance has been the Don joined the RAF at the age Intake graduated from best overall in General Service of 18 and was immediately sent E Basic Recruit Training Training and General Service to RAF Manston on 601 City of at Recruit Training Squadron, Knowledge was awarded to No. London Squadron, where his 27 High Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE RAF Halton in front of family 8 Flight, and collected on their claim to fame was inventing Tel: 01844 274651 and friends. behalf by AC Riley. the gyroscopic black box after Email: [email protected] several aircraft were lost. A King Air from 45 Squadron, Air Marshal Atha praised the RAF Cranwell flew past shortly graduating trainees for their He was seconded with Fighter after the Reviewing Officer, attention to detail in their Command, Bomber Command Air Marshal Stuart Atha, took uniform and deportment and and Coastal Command in the SEATONS his place on the podium for wished them well for their Phase Atlantic. His last raid was in 1945 the general salute. Musical 2 Training. at Burchesgarten, where Hitler accompaniment was provided was esconced. Later on CATERING by the Band of the RAF Also at the parade was Don Don was instumental in the Catering for Regiment, under the instruction Mason, a WW2 tail end return of several aircraft loads all occasions of Warrant Officer P Craggs. gunner on the Lancasters. He of POW’s returning to the UK. is 96 years old and a life long Sandwich delivery member of the Royal Air Force Don watched the Parade and available Association. He was escorted by was then taken to the Halton Air Marshal Atha presented the RAFA Association Trustee and RAFA Club where he met with seatonscatering.co.uk trophies to the following recipients: Harrow Branch President, Sqn Servicemen Awaiting Trade [email protected] The Halton Aircraft Apprentice Ldr Dean Gibson from Training Training (SATTS) for a chat about 01296 630279 Shield - AC Dale Jones. Development Wing. his life and times. The Halton Aircraft Apprentice or 07812 818375 Trophy - AC Josh Cail. The Rothschild Trophy - AC Georgina Marshall-Latimer. The Royal Air Force Benevolent POSH PAWS Fund Trophy – AC Moudud Kabiry. Pampered Pooches The Station Commander’s Cup – AC Charley Taylor. www.poshpawsgrooming.net The Dusty Miller Memorial Trophy – AC Thomas Forber-Wilcock. The Mayor of Aylesbury Trophy – AC Bolton. The Lord Lieutenant Of Buckinghamshire’s Trophy – Pauline Sadler AC Sam Melling. Professional Dog Groomer 01442 891029 Unit 3a Akeman Business Park The Lord Trenchard Trophy 81-82 Akeman Street, Tring, HP23 6AF [email protected] awarded to the Flight whose

Mainpoint Summer 2017 9

Station Snippets Bloodhound SSC ‘Race for the Line’ Regional Finals

n the 3 May, 100 School Construction took place in the This rounded up the day time of the day, exceeding children accompanied Henderson Mess Graduation perfectly, showcasing RAF history 45 mph. Owith teachers, arrived Hall. During this time, the South and how it has developed into at RAF Halton to partake in the East Engagement Team provided what we can deliver today. The day ran smoothly and Bloodhound SSC Race for the a stand, manned by Sgt Tony Consequently a number of everyone involved thoroughly Line Regional Final, organised Pickett, where the children could schools have asked to return enjoyed themselves. Feedback by Project Officer Fg Off Colin challenge each other on an app and partake in the STEM Cool from all the schools has been Fowler. Run by the Learning called Typhoon Time. This was Aeronautics run by the excellent and the pupils Partnership and Bloodhound SSC, excellently received, with high heritage team. developed a great understanding the programme is encouraging levels of competition for the of RAF capabilities and the children to consider a career in fastest time. While the children Returning to The Groves, support the RAF delivers. science, technology, engineering had their lunch, the Bloodhound the day concluded with the and maths (STEM) subjects. The SSC team, supported by Army announcement of the winning With the RAF continuing to RAF is supporting the programme Rocketeers and participating teams. From the Primary division, support the programme going for its second season by allowing Servicemen Awaiting Trade Kitebrook Primary School Team into its 3rd season, there is an use of its facilities for the Regional Training (SATT), set up the race 1 took first place. From the opportunity for RAF personnel Finals. While primarily not a track in the Burton Drill Facility. Secondary schools, Park High to become trained Rocketeers, recruitment drive, the RAF is Running along cable race tracks, 2 School Team 2 took first place, the SATT’s were encouraged to engaged to promote the RAF cars at a time participated in drag they also achieved the fastest pursue this opportunity. to children who may not have a races, utilising the BBC Microbit, good understanding of what speed traps had been coded and we do. recorded each cars top speed, post rocket burnt out. The day commenced with an introduction from Wg Cdr Niki While there was plenty of glory for Stacey in The Groves facility. winning the race, it was the fastest Following this, the Bloodhound recorded time for both Primary SSC team gave an engaging and Secondary schools that won brief covering their progress regionally and proceeded to the towards building the first rocket National Finals, being held at the car designed to break the land Santa Pod Raceway. speed mark, 1000 mph, testing is scheduled for later 2017 with Once the racing had concluded the intention to break it in 2018. and scores were recorded and The children were then given verified by the Bloodhound SSC the parameters for the rocket car, team, the children were given using actual rockets, which they a guided tour of the James were required to design and build. McCudden Flight Heritage Centre.

Mainpoint Summer 2017 11 Station Snippets Supply and Movements Training Wing Receive 1* Team Commendation

Commander Niki Stacey and Station Warrant Officer John Alpert.

Above all, an extremely honourable mention must go to Warrant Officer Si Curtis and his team in C4I for the excellent support received both immediately following the move and in the months since. Connectivity to DII and telephones were available within 3 days of occupying the new building, allowing command and control functions to continue with IT-enabled training resuming one week after the move.

n common with other lodger available could Lieutenant Guy Sumner as well as In recognition for the hard work units and Station elements, be utilised. the flexibility of Flight Lieutenant put in to continuing to deliver I Supply & Movements Ellen McVicker and the Facilities our output during this period of Training Wing (SMTW) was made Airman trade training was Management team to sort out disruption, Commandant Defence homeless at short notice with continued from the Common problems in the building. College of Logistics, Policing and the closure of Old Workshops in Room in their accommodation Administration awarded a Team November 2016. Old Workshops block, while the Logistics Not forgetting the bacon Commendation to SMTW HQ and had been the home of SMTW Officer Training course moved sandwiches delivered by Wing LSTS on 2 Mar 17. Headquarters and subordinate temporarily to Halton House Logistics and Supply Training Officers’ Mess, a much shorter Squadron (LSTS) for over 20 years daily commute for the trainees! since the amalgamation of Supply Meanwhile, all available staff (now Logistics) Officer training worked on making our new home and Supply Airman training from fit for use. The building had been RAF Cranwell and RAF Hereford vacant for nearly 5 years, since respectively. LSTS now handles it had housed the headquarters over 1250 trainees per year, from for the Defence contribution to all 3 military Services and the security for the 2012 Olympics Civil Service. and needed a good clean-up. Once classrooms and offices were Having been allocated what used identified, DIY enthusiasts got to to be Catering Training Squadron’s work constructing desks, putting building, the RAF and Civil Service up whiteboards, and getting staff of SMTW began the process smart-boards and projectors of moving. Over the course of the in place. next 2 days, critical furniture and resources, including computer Huge thanks from Chief Instructor systems and peripherals, were SMTW go to everyone at RAF methodically stripped from Old Halton who provided key Workshops and relocated to the assistance during the move. This new building. In parallel, a small includes the great work of the team identified how the space scratch Ops Cell under Flight

12 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Station Snippets Tornado Gets a Spruce up

he Panavia Tornado XZ630 the RAF Halton Parade Square that stands proudly on since 2004. It was refurbished T the Henderson Parade to resemble a GR4 from 31 Square at Recruit Training Squadron currently based at Squadron, RAF Halton has had a RAF Marham and known as the makeover in recent weeks. ‘Goldstars’. The refurbishment was carried out carefully by It was the first British Serco contractors. pre-production aircraft which flew on 14 Mar 77, Flying Officer Connor Frampton, and participated in weapons the Project Officer for the release trials at the Aeroplane refurbishment, expressed his and Armament Experimental delight stating: “I’m pleased Establishment at Boscombe with the final product; the Serco Down. After a successful career team responsible have done a as a trials aircraft, Panavia fantastic job. The work took a Tornado XZ630 was retired total of 2 months and the final to ground duties and has finish is fitting for an aircraft of Jewellery designed and produced been the Gate Guardian of the Tornado’s status.” to your specifications, or choose from our extensive range of new, secondhand and antique pieces.

Servicing of Rolex, Tag, Omega, Raymond Weil, Gucci etc. Batteries fitted and waterproof testing carried out on the premises. Top prices paid in cash for antique and modern jewellery, watches (especially Rolex), coins, gold, silver, platinum and scrap precious metals. Part exchange available. Aylesbury MoT Centre 8a Bessemer Crescent Rabans Ind. Estate Aylesbury Bucks HP19 8TF Tel:01296 710927 Fax: 01296 392290 For all your MoT’s, Servicing and repairs, friendly efficient service, now including Air Conditioning. All makes and models catered for.

Mainpoint Summer 2017 13 Station Snippets Super Search Spaniel

Cat food. I love cat food. Sorry are kept busy with 40-50 call outs have survived if I hadn’t been on I’m jumping ahead... each year. We are on call 24/7 so the scene! My ‘hoomans’ think sometimes I do get my beauty that this is kind of a big deal but I y name is Beau and I sleep interrupted but it’s all for a just do it to get my reward which am a Lowland Rescue worthwhile cause. brings me back to my original M Search Dog. I’m 5 point - cat food! All of my Search years old and belong to Ali and As a Search Dog, I use my nose Dog friends do it for the ‘reward’ Gaz (affectionately known as to find the missing people. My - the thing we really want after ‘my hoomans’). They are both nose is 250 times more sensitive we have ‘made the find’. Some in the Royal Air Force but also than a ‘hooman’ nose so I can prefer toys and some prefer food volunteer with Search Dogs help find people in thick woods but it’s got to be something Buckinghamshire. I am their pet or undergrowth. I’m trained completely amazing. In my case, English Springer Spaniel and we by my dad every week and it’s my ‘kryptonite’ is cat food. have all been part of the team taken us 2 years to become fully since 2013. trained and operational. I am My other guilty pleasures include one of only 14 Level 3 Search being out in the Lake District Search Dogs Buckinghamshire is Dogs in the whole of Lowland running around on the fells a completely volunteer unit that Rescue. It means that I can search and falling asleep on the sofa. is part of Lowland Rescue. They an area of 50 acres in under 90 Even when I’m not working I’m have teams across the country mins. Admittedly it’s easier for still pretty busy as I now have a and assist local Police Forces me than the ‘hoomans’ as I have little brother. My new ‘padawan to locate high risk vulnerable twice the number of legs they learner’ is Finn. He’s only 9 weeks missing people. Apparently do, plus being a Spaniel, I have old but we all hope that one day there were over 1500 high risk endless amounts of energy! Since he’ll become a Search Dog too. missing people last year in qualifying I’ve found 2 missing Like everyone, there are things Buckinghamshire alone so we people; apparently, they wouldn’t in life that I ‘tolerate’ and some

14 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Station Snippets

Air Sports at RAF Halton

Super Search Spaniel he airfield at RAF Halton to make you feel right at things that I just don’t care for. I my thing (my 'hoomans' came was originally used to home. The club aim to provide tolerate a bath but cannot stand along to keep me company). T support RAF technical affordable flying to serving the other 2 furry friends in my They gave me many gravy bones! training with aircraft types and ex-serving men and house… My mum’s cats! Of course, it’s important to me that ranging from the bi-plane era women from all 3 forces, while I keep up with my ‘fans’ so to modern jet power aircraft. promoting a no rank policy, In this digital age, my exploits if you’d like to follow my exploits, While the technical training so everybody can feel relaxed have found me some fame across my video with Motorola can be moved to RAF Cosford in when undertaking their flying the pond and I am the face of the found on YouTube – just search 1993, service-sponsored training. With 5 microlight Motorola Wave App in the USA. In Lowland Rescue and Motorola. powered flying has continued aircraft, HMC is fully equipped October, I was involved in filming I also have my own Facebook page uninterrupted since 1925 and to take anyone flying for with a production team from - ‘Beau Spaniel’ and I will soon be gliding since 1930. just £75 per hour. For more Motorola’s PR department doing on Twitter and Instagram. information visit the website Now the airfield is home to via the ‘Flying info’ link on the several clubs designed to offer RAF Halton homepage. air sports to service personnel, MOD employees and certain With the ridge to the south civilians at a significant east of RAF Halton providing reduction in cost to other fantastic lift, CGC could not be local airfields. The activities in a better position for gliding! range from your first flight The RAF Gliding and Soaring with an instructor to advanced Association CGC offer service aerobatics over the skies of personnel and club members Halton, which provide a scenic the chance to glide in the and un-paralleled view of one of the many K21 high the Buckinghamshire area. performance gliders with the Luckily for all personnel in price of a single winch launch the Halton area there are 4 flight as low as £25. CGC offer unique and exciting options a truly remarkable experience to partake in air sports. At RAF of gliding in the Halton area as Halton there is the Halton well as regular expeditions to Aero Club (HAC), Halton France for their members. Microlight Club (HMC), Chilterns Gliding Club (CGC) Service men and women alike and Robson Gliding can also make the most of the Centre (RGC(H)). Joint Services Adventurous Training (JSAT) scheme HAC offers flying opportunities run from Halton airfield to service men and women, by the RGC. A dedicated regardless of rank or trade team of gliding instructors and their affiliated civilians at and maintenance crew the low and modest cost of are focussed on delivering £129. The club has a fleet of 3 adventurous training and Cessna 152s, a Technam Sierra Force Development (FD) and a PA-28 for private pilot’s through the medium of licence (PPL) training. As well gliding, mountain biking, as PPL training, HAC also offer high ropes and other FD ground school theory exams opportunities should the and radio training. To book a weather permit. trial lesson please contact the Operations Manager on: You can do a day long Eagles 01296 622697. scheme to give you a taste of gliding or book a week long Next door to HAC is the HMC course with the aim of getting which offers an up to date your first solo flight by the end IT system and a pre-flight/ of the week! Simply visit the Ops room fully equipped RAF Halton homepage and with a microlight simulator to click ‘Flying Info’ to find the link enhance learning. HMC also to the JSAT gliding course as boasts a fully equipped crew well as all the other possible room with everything needed air sports available at Halton.

Mainpoint Summer 2017 15 Station Snippets WOs' & Sgts' Mess Functions for 2017

Summer Families Function Living In Dinner Date TBC 6 Dec 17 Dress Green Dress Green More info to follow List opens 2 Oct More info to follow Closes 29 Nov

Battle of Britain Exchange Drinks @ 8 Sep 17 Sergeants’ Mess Dress Red 12 Dec 17 List open 17 Jul Dress Uniform/Green Closes 31 Aug List opens 30 Oct Closes 5 Dec Jazz On The Lawn 21 Sep 17 New Years’ Eve Dress TBC 31 Dec 17 Venue: HHOM FREE EVENT Dress Green Oktoberfest List opens 15 Nov 27 Oct 17 Closes 23 Dec Dress Green/Lederhosen List opens 1 Sep Other Entertainment will be Closes 19 Oct advertised on the Mess Notice Board, MOSS and RAF Halton Remembrance Dinner Web Site. 10 Nov 17 Dress Red Unless otherwise advertised, List opens 25 Sep Wednesday Night is Members Closes 2 Nov Night including Envelope Draw. Think Print Christmas Draw/Ball Unless otherwise advertised, 1 Dec 17 Friday evening is ‘Happy Hour’ Dress Orange with bar from 1700 hrs. Lance Print is an established printers based List opens 2 Oct in Peterborough. At Lance we combine Closes 22 Nov Whilst every effort is maintained skill, experience & knowledge to provide a to ensure the accuracy of the complete professional service. above information, details may change at short notice due to We aim to fill our clients unforeseen circumstances with confidence in the knowledge that any work FS Hammond undertaken by us, will be Head of Ents 6021 completed to the highest possible standard.

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16 Mainpoint Summer 2017

Community Support Team Useful Tel. Deployment Support Numbers: As the HIVE Informa1on Officer (HIO) much of my 1me is spent ensuring that the 01296 65**** families receive the support they require whilst a loved one is away on Opera1ons. • HIVE: 6507 Some1mes this can feel a bit like a balancing act, with some families requiring lots of Community• SSAFA: 6455 contact Alngs and support whilst others are content and carry on independently during and• CDO: Charity 6355 the dura1on of the tour. This is individual preference and either way, both myself • SCSO: 6122 and the other members of the Community Support Team, are happy to ensure that and that the level send messages to the deployed • SCSC: 6396 our families receive of support the is support parent anywhere they desire. in the world. established. Not wanting the older children Community• MED CENTRE: 6317 For every Service PersonMy advice who is is deployedto miss out the I send Sta1on them a sweet receives the Families Welfare • GUARDROOM: 6216 to have this hamper put together by a very Grant Community which ensures that conversation we have talented wife, sufficient Mrs Kelly Dutton, funds to look aLer their families. Support• BARRACK STORES: 6360 Previously this had with your loved been from used Sweetly Scrumptious. for The family lunches in Halton House Officers Mess, however, with many one prior of to our nominated families adult is also sent living a gift away, aNendance was low and the event • CA WORK SERVICES: leaving as the of wine and chocolates and this is expensive so it was support you decided always very that well received. the support would be reviewed so that it was 0800 707 6000 Team NewsbeNer suited to every think they want family’s need. may be different My advice is, if you are soon to to what they deploy, please make sure that you Feedback from the rving se actually p wouldersonnel discuss was the that level of support they your wanted their dependants to know they were like, or thought need. At this about family would like and and make that their they felt valued during the dura1on of the TCC EVENTS: time you will also be wishes known. However, this is not deployment. given the Deployment set in stone and, if they find this • TCC Summer Party Deployment Pack Up which contains all the changes after you leave, they are Useful Tel Numbers Venue: TCC Support Prior to their emergency contact departure, numbers every as Serving more than welcome Person to contact must clear through the Service As the HIVE InformationCommunity Officer well Support as the ‘fun’ stuff including Officer, the FS me at any Sue time, or Hartley and myself to drop in. for a This is to ensure that we Time: 1600-‐1900 hrs (HIO) much of my time is spent chuff charts, talking tins and hello friendly cup 01296 65**** ensuring that the families receive *HIVE: 6507 Date: 20 Jul 17 have the from families home books. correct We will also contact of coffee. details and that the level of support is established. the support they require whilst *SSAFSA: 6455 My advice confirm is that you to have nominated have this conversa1on with your loved one prior to leaving as the • Halloween Party a loved one is away on Operations. *CDO: 6355 a Service Point of Contact who A major issue that I face is getting *SCSO: 6122 Venue: TCC support you think they want may relevant information be different to what they actually would like, or Sometimes this can feel a bit like a *SCSC: 6396 need. At this 1me you will out also to the families be in given the Deployment Pack Up which contains all Time: 1600-‐1900 hrs balancing act, with some families *MED CENTRE: 6317 a timely manner so requiring lots of contact and *GUARDROOM: 6216 Date: 31 Oct 17 the emergency contact numbers as that well they don’t miss as the ‘fun’ stuff including the chuff charts, support whilst others are content *BARRACK STORES: 6360 talking 1ns and hello from home out on books. events, etc. We will also confirm that you have • Children’s Christmas Party and carry on independently *CA WORK SERVICES: I would therefore during the duration of the tour. 0800 707 6000 Venue: WOs & Sgts Mess nominated a Service Point of Contact recommend that who will provide extra support for the family; This is individualthis preference can and be a friend, neighbour they ‘like’ or the official work colleague and we will contact them to Time: 1600-‐1900 hrs either way, both myself and the RAF Halton HIVE TCC EVENTS: other members of the Community *TCC SUMMER PARTY Date: 17 Dec 17 ensure that they are aware of Facebook their responsibili1es. page Support Team, are happy to Venue: TCC or follow us on ensure that our families receive Time: 1600-1900 hrs Depending on the family situa1on, the Serving Twitter. If they don’t Person may be issued with £30 the support they desire. Date: 20 Jul 17 Leisure and will provide Astra extra support Cinema for Vouchers, have or social media these please will advise be sent to the family for their use, *Halloween Party the family; this can be a friend, me when you clear and I will be For every Service Person who is Venue: TCC aLer departure, neighbour or for work colleague use whilst happy to update they are away. with regular deployed the Station receives Time: 1600-1900 hrs and we will contact them to emails. the Families Welfare Grant which Date: 31 Oct 17 One of the ensure that major they are aware hits of their that I have introduced for the younger children is CloudPets. ensures that we have sufficient *Children's Christmas Party responsibilities. I also appreciate feedback so if you Facebook: funds to look after their This families. allow s them to interact and send messages to the deployed parent anywhere in Venue: WOs & Sgts Mess think something may be useful Previously this had been used for Time: RAF 1600-1900 Halton hrs HIVE the world. Depending on Not the family wan1ng which the could older be included in children the to miss out I send them a sweet hamper family lunches in Halton House date: 17 Dec RAF 17 Halton Community situation, the Serving Person may deployment pack, or if anything Officers Mess, however,put with together be issued by with £30 a Leisure very and talented else can be introduced wife, or Mrs Kelly DuNon, from Sweetly Scrump1ous. Support many of our families The living away, nominated Astra Cinema Vouchers, adult or these is also amended to support sent the families a giL of wine and chocolates and this is always Facebook: attendance was low and the event will be sent to the family for their further, please feel free to send me RAF Halton HIVE expensive so it wasvery decided that well use, received. after departure, for use whilst an email or drop in and RAF Halton Community the support would be reviewed so they are away. see me. that it was betterMy suited to advice every is, if you are soon to deploy, please make sure that you discuss the level Support TWITTER: family’s need. of support One your of the major family hits that I have would like and make their wishes known. However, this is not introduced for the younger TWITTER: RAF Halton Hive Feedback from theset serving in stone children and, is CloudPets. This if they find this changes aLer you leave, they are more than RAF Halton HIVE personnel was thatwelcome they wanted to allows contact them to interact and me at any 1me, or to drop in for a friendly cup of coffee. their dependants to know they were thought about and that they felt valued duringA the duration major of issue that I face is ge^ng relevant informa1on out to the families in a 1mely the deployment.manner so that they don’t miss out on events, etc. I would therefore recommend

Prior to their departure,that every they ‘like’ the oﬃcial RAF Halton HIVE Facebook page or follow us on TwiNer. If Serving Person mustthey clear through don’t have social media please advise me when you clear and I will be happy to the Service Community Support RAFRAF Halton Halton HIVE HIVE QR Officer, FS Sue Hartleyupdate and myself. with regular emails. QRCode Code This is to ensure that we have the families correct I contact also details appreciate feedback so if you think something may be useful which could be

included in the deployment pack, or if anything else can be introduced or amended 18 to support the families further, please feel Mainpoint Summer free 2017 to send me an email or drop in and see me.

Community Freedom of Wendover Parade and Charity he sight of marching Parade Warrant Officer, Ian Giles. recognise the unique and very United Kingdom or deployed on airmen and women Parade support was Cpl Gary special relationship between RAF operations across the world we T brought Wendover to a Wigglesworth. Halton, Aylesbury Vale and of continue to prepare our people to standstill in May, as the village course Wendover. Mr Chairman, promote and defend the Nation’s paid tribute to personnel from The musical accompaniment I am extremely grateful to you interests. It was just over 70 years RAF Halton at a special parade to was from the Band of The RAF for allowing us to exercise the ago that Lord Trenchard, the mark the Freedom of the Vale. Regiment who played a mixture Freedom of Aylesbury Vale today. founder of the Royal Air Force, Two flights of personnel marched of formal and new music. Permitting us to march through observed that “Halton and the through the village with ‘drums Station Commander, Group the streets of Wendover and to Halton spirit has been a pillar of beating, bayonets fixed and Captain James Brayshaw, took parade Her Majesty the Queen’s strength all over the world.” Queen’s Colour flying’. The fly the salute along with The Lord Colour, all with bayonets fixed past was a Puma helicopter from As we commemorate Royal 230 Tiger Squadron based at RAF Air Force Halton’s remarkable Benson in Oxfordshire. achievements it feels so right Station Warrant Officer, Ian Giles, that we can parade through said: “It is a great honour to be Wendover. Our success would able to march through Wendover not be possible without the on this auspicious occasion to remarkable support that my celebrate the Freedom of personnel and their families the Vale. receive from this community. Simply put, we could not do The Parade consisted of Parade what we do without you. On this Commander, Wing Commander special occasion, thank you for all Niki Stacey, and 2 Flights of that you have done and all that 24, led by Flight Commanders, Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire. and band playing, is the highest you do, to make Royal Air Force Flt Lt Stu Clarke and Flt Lt Chester Group Captain Brayshaw tribute that you can bestow Halton the special place it is, for Myers. The Queen’s Colour was addressed the crowd, saying: “It on us. making us such an integral part paraded by the Colour Bearer, Flt is a huge privilege and genuinely of the community and for always Lt Ripley-Jones with 3 escorts, humbling to stand before you Royal Air Force Halton, nestling welcoming us as your Royal Air Flying Officer Emma Tulip as the Station Commander of in the glorious Buckinghamshire Force Station. Thank you.” was the Parade Adjutant and Royal Air Force Halton and to countryside, is steeped in a rich heritage and an industrious The day concluded with a history. Throughout our long reception at the Wendover Royal past, we have been at the heart British Legion Club. Freedom of of the Royal Air Force, training the City is an ancient honour thousands of personnel and granted to martial organisations, developing the leadership skills allowing them the privilege to of today’s Air Force. Today, as march into the city with ‘drums well as being the Gateway to beating, colours flying, and the Royal Air Force for our new bayonets fixed’. This honour dates recruits, we also train personnel back to ancient Rome which from all 3 Services for specific regarded the "pomerium", the Defence roles. Whether it is in the boundary of the city, as sacred.

RAFA Wings Appeal

ogistics Specialist Training Wing (formerly Supply & L Movements Training Wing) were instrumental in collecting for the RAFA Wings Appeal at the recent Parade in Wendover when RAF Halton celebrated the Freedom Of The Vale Of Aylesbury. Flight Lieutenant Karl Wright, Logistics Officer Training Instructor, along with course students, Flying Officer James Davey, Flying Officer Ben Convery and Pilot Officer Lizzie Sudlow plus Senior Aircraftsman (Technician) Aaron Sanderson with volunteers from the Halton & Aylesbury Branch of RAFA managed to raise the fantastic amount of £338.07.

Mainpoint Summer 2017 19 Aylesbury Vale Golf Club

Special Green Fee Rates for Armed Forces Just £15 with your ID card (normal fee £25 - £36) Special Membership Rates - pay monthly - no contracts Posted at short notice? No problems!!

Book your round on this beautiful tree-lined course Aylesbury Vale Golf Club Stewkley Road, Wing, LU7 0UJ 01525 240196 [email protected] www.avgc.co.uk Community and Charity

RAF Halton Personnel Assist Training of Medical Detection Dogs

ersonnel from RAF recruit up to 3000 participants. One of the candidates said: appointment with the Research Halton have assisted in Three research nurses, Heini “It was a very simple process Department at Milton Keynes P the training of Medical Alderman, Louise Moran and whereby they asked a few University Hospital by contacting Detection Dogs who are being Francesca Wright attended and questions to check we had them directly on 01908 995117 taught to detect cancers and were joined by detection dog, volunteered. We donated and or emailing francesca.wright@ other illnesses. Kiwi, a golden Labrador and his left, it was that simple. We are mkuh.nhs.uk handler, Bio Detection Training used to controlled drug testing The Biomedical Testing Unit Manager, Rob Harris, who is in the military so it was no big at Milton Keynes Hospital responsible for 29 dogs, 8 of deal and we are happy to help.” To learn more about their work contacted Station Warrant which are actively working. go to: Officer, Jake Alpert, to ask for the Dr. Claire Guest, Chief Executive www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk Station’s help. He immediately Heini said: “It is all going very well Officer for the Medical Detection trawled for volunteers and and we are grateful for all the Dogs, said: “We are delighted today the clinic took place with lovely enthusiastic volunteers to work with RAF Halton and personnel answering a few who have come to donate, as for their assistance in providing questions before being asked we don’t normally get a lot of samples for training dogs for the to donate a urine sample, the volunteers coming forward. The Milton Keynes University Hospital main criteria being that they samples will now go to Milton prostate cancer research project. were volunteers and under no Keynes for a routine dipstick test, The samples from healthy men pressure to donate. the sort you would have in a and women will help us to train doctor’s surgery. our specialist prostate cancer The purpose of this ethically detection dogs which we approved research study is to After that they will be frozen to believe will result in an effective, demonstrate that dogs can be minus 80 degrees until they are accurate noninvasive test.” trained to detect different types required by the bio detection of urological cancer, (prostate, area. Normally 8 samples are put Bio detection dogs are used bladder and kidney) from urine in a row or carousel for the dogs to detect all sorts of cancers samples. It is hoped that the to sniff. Detection can be so fine and infection. If you would work will enable scientists that they can detect a teaspoon like to donate you should be to develop an early cancer of blood in an Olympic sized between the ages of 18 and 40 screening system. They hope to swimming pool.” and healthy. You can make an

Mainpoint Summer 2017 21 Community and Charity Another Successful The Mighty Cool Aeronautics Event Deerstalker 2017 at RAF Halton egend tells of a cult The natural terrain of the total of 60 Children from Two Rolls-Royce STEM running event deep in Scottish Borders unquestionably Longwick Church of Ambassadors from Derby, Scott Lthe Scottish Borders pushes racers out of their AEngland Primary School Bradshaw and Ian Scott, briefed whose distance is a closely comfort zones and the darkness took part in the latest Cool on aircraft engine technology and guarded secret, only known makes the course all the Aeronautics event at RAF construction of model aluminium to the Laird, his Ghillies and more treacherous. Halton recently. aero engines. Jim Wright and his anyone with a GPS watch. colleagues from the British Model Raising money for Children The Trenchard Museum is working Flying Association (BMFA) lead On 11 Mar 17 two personnel with Cancer, over 2500 runners with the Royal Aeronautical the aircraft model making activity from IFPT RAF Halton travelled made camp in the grounds of Society to promote aerospace when the children made Aerojet to Traquair House in the Traquair House and got into and aviation to a new generation models and then flew them. Scottish Borders to take on the spirit of the Deerstalker. under the Science, Technology, The Mighty Deerstalker. Cpl So far, combined with other Engineering and Mathematics Brian Rogers and Bill McGrath, Atkinson and Cpl Williams both Rat Race events, over 500 (STEM) umbrella. Cool Aeronautics volunteers at the Trenchard tackled the 'full' stalker. Not thousand pounds has been events are free to attend and offer Museum, lead a simulator activity quite a half marathon but well raised for Children with Cancer a fantastic opportunity for young with children ‘flying’ a Chipmunk over 10 miles of hills, rivers, by runners, obstacle racers and people, the new generation, to aircraft flight simulator, and also bogs and a mountain or two in endurance athletes alike. The meet inspirational people from a Link trainer simulator. The Link the pitch dark of a chilly March target is 1 million pounds raised across the industry and to engage trainer’s were made in Aylesbury night. This is probably the by Dec 2018. with aerospace themed activities by Air Trainers Limited in the hardest off-road-tweed-clad- that are relevant to the current 1950s and Mike Burton provided pipe-lit-plus-four-and-head Once the race was over, it Key Skills 2 National Curriculum. invaluable support, as did 12 torch-wearing run that exists. was time for the infamous young recently graduate recruits. Freezing rivers and near vertical 'Mighty Beerstalker Party' in a The children were split into slope climbs are crammed huge heated tent, with food, groups and took part in 6 different Organiser of Cool Aeronautics, into a 2 km stretch to try and Wainwright Golden Beer, bands activities in the all-day event at Bill McGrath, said: “Another very break runners who take upon and crowd surfing late into various locations on the Station. successful session and the new themselves to enter. the night. In one activity the children were Director of the RAF Charitable briefed by Nigel Smith and other Trust also visited. Justine Morton, pilots of the Force Development a retired Group Captain, took the Training Centre (FDTC) on the opportunity to see the Chipmunk principles of flight. They were also simulator in use which was bought given the opportunity to sit in the by a grant from the Charitable pilots seat of a glider. Trust, together with Rolls Royce who provided a grant of £15K for In another activity, 2 RAF STEM the purchase 3 yrs ago. Ambassadors from RAF Brize Norton, Sqn Ldr Andrew Marshall The Charitable Trust provided and Sgt Carlos Maline, explained a further grant to update the to the children about how a simulator and also provided rocket performs before getting funds to RAF Cranwell's them to build model rockets Youth and Diversity team of and fire them under controlled £18,800 to purchase the STIXX conditions. equipment to help RAF STEM Ambassadors deliver core STEM Sgt Paula Cil, RAF STEM outreach activities to children Ambassador from RAF Benson, throughout the UK.” lead STIXX machine based engineering activities. The gadgets roll newspaper pages into solid rods that can be used to build things with and are used to deliver activities that incorporate aviation and STEM awareness. Paula was supported by Les Garden and Cpl Darren Culley.

22 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Community and Charity Physical Training Instructors Smash the ‘Row for Rob’ Challenge

orporal Rob Bugden, a manned with PTI’s and Physical serving Physical Training Education personnel completing C Instructor, suffered life 20 min rotations, with additional changing injuries earlier last year machines to hand for Station in a parachuting accident and in personnel to support the March, his colleagues from RAF challenge to add to the total Halton challenged themselves distance. Cpl Lynch continued: to complete a 210.116 km row “The day started well and we with the aim of raising funds to soon saw the kilometres getting purchase a vehicle with wheel completed. As we had 2 rowing chair access. machines I could see we would easily complete the 210.116 km The Barbara Bus Foundation within the 12 hr time limit we had Fund has been paramount in set ourselves. supporting Rob’s recovery over Homeless Aid Mission by the last year. The money raised As lunchtime approached the will go towards funding the target of 210.116 km was in Halton Personnel vehicle which will be stationed sight and was reached after 7 at Headley Court, giving greater hrs and 15 mins of rowing. After gt Kristian Harrison MBE, look for the homeless and offer freedom to all wheelchair bound the mark was reached, the goal Cpl Rhydian Davies and 7 them a safe place for a couple of personnel, present and future. quickly changed to complete the SRecruits from McTeague hours. Having ensured that the maximum distance within the and Jackson Flight, Recruit refreshments remained stocked Rob is currently at Headley time allotted.” Training Squadron recently and those we found were safe, it Court and whilst he is making an attended a Thames Valley Police was time to depart back to RAF incredible recovery, his life has Throughout the day the (TVP) initiative offering homeless Halton so the Recruits had time changed dramatically as a result challenge was supported by people within the Aylesbury to turn around their kit and of the accident. Station Executives, Physical area a ‘Safe Place’. Located in perform block jobs for the Training Instructors from Airman’s Aylesbury Town Hall, food and following day’s tasks. The event was organised by Command School and the refreshments were offered to Cpl Andy Lynch, a PTI himself, Regional Rehabilitation Unit, those in need. During the drive back all were attached to Recruit Training as well as several members of a little more thankful for what Squadron at RAF Halton, who Recruit Training Squadron and Kristian said: “Working alongside we have. The 2 main things we said: “An early start on Thu Station personnel. Flying Officer TVP are Tesco, the Royal British agreed on were; not taking things 23 Mar saw the start of the Thomas Perry, who has worked Legion and other health care for granted and we hope we ‘Row for Rob’ challenge to be alongside Corporal Bugden, said: services offering support can attend the next event to completed by Recruit Training “We had PTI’s from every avenue and guidance. continue our support to a very Squadron, Physical Training and ranks all supporting one worthy cause. Instructors (PTIs), to support Cpl cause, as well as personnel from The first part of the evening was Robert Bugden and the Barbara across RAF Halton; it was fantastic to ensure that the facility was Seeing people who are in a dark Bus Foundation”. to see the range of support set up ensuring that people place and have nothing in their throughout the day”. had places to sit and chat. As life is a real eye opener. However, On 21 Jan 16 Rob suffered severe the doors were open and the seeing the positive attitude they spinal injuries in a parachuting On the stroke of 1800 hrs, rowing first few walked in, surprised have and providing a service to accident. Throughout the month ceased and the final numbers by the number of helpers, we make them smile is definitely of March teams of PTI’s from were added up. In total an were quickly given another rewarding and should anyone across the Royal Air Force have impressive 327.201 km, with tasking from TVP. We were want to assist on the next event been completing the arduous Station personnel also completing asked to walk the streets and please contact me on Ext: 6962. challenge of a 210.116 km row 258.107 km meant the total (the distance signifies the date distance rowed within 12 hrs was of Rob's accident) with the aim a massive 585.308 km, which is of raising £32,000 to purchase a more than rowing the English wheelchair accessible vehicle that Channel 17 times. will be based full-time at Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre If you would like to donate Headley Court. please go to the website: www.justgiving.com The strategy of the day was and search simple but effective; to have 2 Physical Training Instructors. rowing machines permanently

Mainpoint Summer 2017 23 Community and Charity The Armed Forces Region (AFR) HCPT

very year at Easter the Secondly, their devoted families Hosanna House & Children’s receive a well-earned week’s E Pilgrimage Trust (HCPT) respite, for most, this is the first runs a pilgrimage holiday to time they have spent time apart Lourdes, France, for disabled from their child…ever! The key and disadvantaged children and to Lourdes is that, in a world young adults. Whilst HCPT is a where difference can be a cause Roman Catholic organisation, of tension or distress, each child’s this is an inclusive trip open uniqueness is celebrated and to children and helpers of all accepted with openness, joy and backgrounds, of all faiths hope. This is the spirit and ethos and none. of Lourdes, and of HCPT!

HCPT is a civilian organisation, To prepare thoroughly for the but the British Armed Forces huge responsibility of caring have a proud tradition of taking for children with differing and a sizeable contingent along each often complex needs, all helpers year. Our highly professional team and chaplains must undergo of helpers are mainly Service an intensive programme of personnel or civilians with a mandatory training. Areas covered military affiliation. Military nurses, include: safeguarding; health doctors, padres and personnel and safety; risk assessment; care from across the trades work; first aid and disabilities and branches make up this awareness and an introduction 'rankless' team. to the religious aspects of the week. Helpers, in at least pairs, The purpose of this pilgrimage are allocated the child they will holiday is twofold. Firstly children care for on the trip and they will enjoy a powerful and often also be prepared for the particular life-changing experience – as special needs of their child. evidenced in an article written by Bradley Langley, aged 15 From 24 – 26 Feb 17 Sqn Ldr published in the Carterton Crier. Olivia Steel and Padre Dave

24 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Community Skillen led the training weekend and Charity at RAF Halton for 50 personnel from all three Services. This was whole AFR - Regional Chaplain a huge success as helpers, old Fr David Yates (RN) and Deacon and new, got to know each Dave Skillen (RAF). other and received the required training. We would like to thank We are all now ready and very all who enabled this to happen: much looking forward to this Gp Capt Brayshaw (Station year’s pilgrimage. If you are Commander); Wg Cdr Stacey (OC interested in becoming a helper Support Wing); Flt Lt Sumner; the next year, or if you know of any Airman’s Command Squadron; Armed Forces family who might the Accommodation Cell; the benefit from their child coming Maitland Mess; MT; C4I; the to Lourdes in the future, don't Security Services and the Holy hesitate to get in touch. Family Church.

The AFR HCPT is headed up by You can also check out the HCPT Capt Derek Swannick (RN). Tri- website: www.HCPT.org.uk to Service subgroups have their own find out much more. Padre Dave Group Leaders and there are Skillen (RAF) - david.skillen100@ currently 2 Chaplains for the mod.uk

Mainpoint Summer 2017 25 Community and Charity Airpower Takes on Wheelpower at RAF Halton otary Clubs around the Stanmore and Stoke Mandeville. country have transported a In addition, the wheelchair RMurderball wheelchair from travelled to Bedford (home of the Manchester to Stoke Mandeville Wheelchair Challenge) where it Hospital by whatever eccentric was transported on the River Great means they could. The wheelchair Ouse on a dragon boat. was provided by Wheelpower, a charity which encourages The penultimate journey by a wheelchair sport, which is based glider from the London Gliding at the Guttmann Centre in Stoke Club landed at RAF Halton’s airfield Mandeville, birthplace of the and was then carried by steam car Paralympic Games. It arrived at RAF to the hospital. The convoy of cars Halton by glider and the final leg consisted of a 1904 Ford Model of the journey was by steam car to A, the first car to be produced by the Guttmann Centre. The event the Ford Motor Company. A 1934 was to publicise the opening of the Wolseley Hornet Special, a 1901 Paralympic Toledo Steam Carriage, which Games 2017. carried the wheelchair, and a delightful children along the way. Officer Commanding Vauxhall 30-98 Light Tourer. We arrived at the Stoke Mandeville Operations and Plans Wing, Sponsored by the Rotary Club, Spinal Unit and conducted the Wing Commander Karen Moran, Wheelpower has a Project this year Jim Gregory, President of the official handover to Olivia, the head said: “Working with the Rotary to provide an appropriate sports Rotary Club Berkhamsted trainer at the Unit. Club our Operations team have bag of equipment for each Spinal Bulbourne and Steam Car Driver, demonstrated RAF Halton’s Unit in the project. The Rotary Club said: “On behalf of Rotary Club The final handover to the Spinal strong ethos of community of Wendover & District organised Berkhamsted Bulbourne and Unit team at the Guttman Stadium support. Furthermore, as a home a fundraising dinner on the 27th Rotary Club Wendover, please took place early evening where for RAF Sport, it is particularly March at The Raj Restaurant, accept my profound thanks to the official opening of the games rewarding to support a charity hosted by owner Rotarian Ricky the RAF for assisting us with our took place. Without support from that transforms lives Ahmed to raise money towards Wheelchair Challenge project people and organisations like through sport.” the bag. which completed with the safe the RAF our quest to help others delivery of the wheelchair to the less fortunate than ourselves is There is also some coverage of The event commenced in Stoke Mandeville Spinal Unit severely hampered. the Spinal Unit handover on Manchester on Sat 8 Apr, at ‘The and to its final destination at the MIX96 - https://www.mix96. Rotary In Great Britain and Ireland Dr Ludwig Guttman Stadium to Flying Officer Connor Frampton co.uk/news/local/2275201teddy- Conference’, when broadcaster launch the 2017 games.” from the airfield said: “The Rotary in-wheelchair-withsteam-car- and paralympian Ade Adepitan clubs across the country should be convoy-arrivesinaylesbury/. set the wheelchair on its journey. You may like to know that from proud of their effort towards this Details about Wheelpower The units visited were in Dublin, Halton we took the chair in great cause and so are we at RAF can be found at: Glasgow, Sheffield, Wakefield, convoy along the route, visiting Halton. It was a pleasure to be able www.wheelpower.org.uk/ Oswestry, Cardiff, Salisbury, local schools full of excited and to help out.” WPower

26 Mainpoint Summer 2017

Community and Charity

Recruit Training Squadron’s Arnold Intake Volunteer at the Buckinghamshire Railway Museum hilst completing the I also enjoyed the trust given to Basic Recruit Training us by our training staff”. W Course (BRTC) at RAF Halton each course undertakes The largest undertaking of the a charity weekend. Over a day was a deep clean of the weekend in March, Arnold static railway museum located intake devoted their weekend in an old engine shed. Using the to assist the local community, cleaning skills and a keen eye by contributing to the for attention to detail learnt on preparation of the opening day BRTC, the recruits used the whole of the Buckinghamshire Railway day to strip, clean and restore Museum. the museum to full glory. Every part of the static display was The museum, operated by inspected and cleaned ready for volunteers, needed a fresh clean the paying public to enjoy the To advertise in and some cosmetic work, the attraction. “It was an interesting recruits and staff of Arnold intake experience which I have never the next issue of jumped at the opportunity to taken part in before” said this publication, help them ready for the start of AC Humphries. the open season. please contact Overall, the museum looks much The tasks for the day were, better and this couldn’t have Tammie Established in Aylesbury for sweeping up public areas, been done without the support over 19 years painting fences, changing from the recruits from Arnold Tel: Care for your pets while bins, cleaning the museum intake, not only did the museum you are away 01536 526667 and cleaning the front gate benefit but the recruits did as No pet too small which was an old manned level well, AC Heyes said: “It was a 07730 43 53 71 Email: crossing barrier. When asked good bonding exercise for us all [email protected] tammie@ about the day, AC Skarratt said: “It and nice to see historical places www.charliemouseagency.com lancepublishing.co.uk was good fun and rewarding, like this still around”. Digital Design Sales and Marketing Contract Publishing Branding Solutions Tel: 01536 521126 [email protected] lancepublishing www.lancepublishing.co.uk

28 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Community and Charity A Long Time Ago in a Galaxy Far, Far Away… young George Clooney mix of high street shops and look alike, Cpl Gary independent prop makers. AWigglesworth, from GD Flight at RAF Halton, organised As the night went on the a charity showing of all the Star numbers were thinned out as Wars films in one day to raise tiredness hit, some gave up and Relay for Life - Dino Pete money for the Royal Air Force slept in the cinema. By the end Benevolent Fund. at 0345 hrs, 27 people were left. After the rollercoaster story the Spotted at RAF Halton It was an all-day event starting adventurers left the cinema with racey Glover from the members in total, myself as team at 0830 hrs on Sat 6 May and grinning faces they shuffled into International Defence captain, Francesca, Corrine, Ellie, finished sometime in the small the crisp morning air. T Training Flight at RAF Liam and James but we would hours of Sun 7 May. Over 70 Halton has been instrumental love more people to join!. It is people attempted the 19 ½ hrs The total amount raised was in coordinating a collection for very hard going and tiring with marathon, which is no £1,817.66 and Gary said: the Relay For Life. Tracey and her such few team members as easy feat. “Everyone who donated was team held cake stalls and bucket someone has to be on the track extremely generous, we took collections to raise £120.21 for from your team walking at all The intrepid explorers turned up £1200 on the day and raised Cancer Research UK. This year’s times. This is a charity very close with pillows, blankets £1800 in total. event has been named Heroes to our hearts and I have lost and flasks of coffee ready for the and Villains and so the team were close family members to this story arc that would span 8 films. Well done to Andrew Kingdom followed round by a blue dragon, horrible disease. Between each film there was who won the Storm Trooper their mascot, Dino Pete. Although a 10 mins break to stretch legs helmet which was cast from unsure if he is a hero or a villain! We do fundraising all year and recharge sugar levels with the original helmet used in around for this event, Christmas popcorn and sweets. Star Wars Episode Four, A New The Station team of Tracey (team fates, bake sales, quiz nights Hope and worth £300. Watch captain), Francessca, Corrine, and team members specialize During lunch there was a raffle this space for the next venture Ellie and James were joined by in making knitted hedgehogs, of Star Wars prizes, 41 in total, where we will try to top the the Relay committee and Dino owls, handmade jewellery these were donated from a amount raised.” Pete for a cheque presentation and homemade cakes. We are and Chairwoman of the event, hopefully going to hold a ladies Paula, who said: “The ladies have night, another cake sale with tea been doing an amazing job with and coffee soon. Dino Pete is the the fundraising specially as RAF Aylesbury Relay for Life mascot, Halton are hosting the event this and has a very busy social year. The charity collects all year calendar and gets everywhere so round and we look forward to look out for him lurking around! the 1st of July when hundreds of women will converge on RAF The event this year is taking Halton to take part.” Relay for Life place at the Nuffield Pavilion, is a year-round team fundraising RAF Halton, on Sat 1 Jul 17 at challenge, bringing communities 1200 hrs and finishes at 1200 hrs together to beat cancer. Teams on Sun 2 Jul. There are usually set up camp and take turns to 25 to 30 teams of varying sizes walk around the track through and age groups. Children and the night. There are over 50 Relay dogs (remember your poop bags for Life events happening across and to pick up after them!) are the UK and thousands more welcome. We are allowed to set around the world. up our tents and area from 0900 hrs on the 1 Jul so we are all ready Tracey said: “I first got involved in to start walking at 1200 hrs after the 24 hr Relay for Life for Cancer the survivor’s lap. Research in 2014 after reading about it and decided to get a This year’s theme is back to team together calling ourselves school so is going to be the best Heroes and Villains. We are made one yet!” up of family and friends, with a mixture of ages and personalities So come and join team Heroes and all have a good laugh even and Villains and have some fun when we are so tired. The team for 24 hrs. Fancy dress, lots of has changed very much since laughs, good company and it started and now only has 6 raising money.

Mainpoint Summer 2017 29 Community and Charity Annapurna Sanctuary traffic without batting an eye lid! and experienced the full joys of Back at the hotel, we sat in the driving in the countryside. We garden and after our nervous arrived at our start point and met twitching stopped, chilled for an our Sherpas and other guides hour or so before heading out for the first time. These guys again for a Nepalese welcome are unbelievably talented, each dinner of Dal Bhat and traditional carrying 2 of our 15 kg bags from dancing. Finally, after almost 40 a strap around their heads! hrs on the go we returned to the hotel for a good night sleep. They headed off to our first overnight stop and then we Sat 8 Apr were off too, ABC here we come. Our guide had planned a culture We walked for around an hour visit of Kathmandu and so after before stopping for our first acktrack 15 months law also put together bags of breakfast we set off on the mini- lunch break at a little tea house from the 6 Apr 17 when toothpaste, a toothbrush and bus to again test our luck on overlooking a rushing glacial BI received a call from my stickers. Fast forward to 'D-Day'! the roads. river. After a couple more hours good friend Al Sylvester asking if we arrived at our first stop-over both my wife (Tracey) and I would Thu 6 Apr Saturday is a rest day for the in Hile; a beautiful location that like to join him and 9 others on We arrived at Heathrow at around Nepalese so there were plenty of would have graced any postcard. an expedition to Annapurna Base 12 pm to meet up with the team. people on the streets. We visited We sorted out our kit, showered Camp in the Himalayas! Al left the We had a massive amount of a number of temples, saw several and then met up for our evening RAF 3 yrs ago and over the years luggage, over 300 kg including traditional open air cremations meal. This was followed by a has led 25 expeds all over the 160 kg of donations for the by the riverside and after lunch briefing from DR, our guide, world including an unsupported orphanage and our first challenge headed off to the Buddhist on what was happening the attempt to reach the South Pole; was how on earth do we get this temple of Swayambhunath, following day, then off to bed the first RAF team to do so. all through? Thankfully, a helpful a sanctuary for hundreds of ready for an early start. member of staff from Turkish monkeys that move freely He had obviously seen the airlines came to our assistance. around the area. Here we climbed Mon 10 Apr notifications I’d been posting on The flight to Istanbul left and to the top of the hill and were The brief the night before Facebook of our walks courtesy arrived on time with only a short treated to amazing views suggested that today was of the 'Map My Walk' app. Tracey stop before we boarded our across Kathmandu. going to be tough. Our first big and I were regularly walking on connecting flight to Nepal. challenge would see us climb average 12 miles per week in Back at the hotel we started to 3500 steps without respite! There our own attempt to get fit! Usual Fri 7 Apr sort out our luggage for the is a saying in Nepal, “a little bit up, thing cut down on the booze and We arrived in Kathmandu at expedition and impending a little bit down” and either side change our lifestyle! around 10:30 am local time. The flight across country to Pokhara, of the steps this was certainly airport was quite an experience our start point for our trek to the case. Throughout the day Oddly enough our response was although nothing in comparison Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). We we were rewarded with amazing one of shock and horror; would to the roads! The sight of cows were allowed to take 15 kg for the views across the hills and it be all inclusive, would there be wandering down the middle hold and 5 kg hand held, the rest valleys. The scenery was simply a swimming pool and evening was quite an unusual sight and would be stored at the hotel until stunning with Rhododendron entertainment? Clearly not, hence pretty much anything goes as our return which included the trees scattered around, along our delay in giving an answer. Two to which side or direction the donations we had collected for with vines and local wildlife. We weeks later, after a few drinks, we vehicles travelled in! The dust the orphanage. eventually arrived at Ghorepani signed up and started to plan. and noise was ever constant, our base for the night at an What kit did we need? How many however after around 45 mins we Sun 9 Apr altitude of 2850 m. miles would we need to put in? arrived at our hotel. We unpacked Sunday was a very early start as Shall we raise money for charity? and after a quick shower and a we headed off to the airport for And so on. change of clothes, got back on our flight. Getting through was the mini-bus for a trip into Thamel, an experience, although with our Over the coming weeks and an opportunity to pick up a few guide leading the way we were much walking, further details basics for the expedition. soon boarding the plane. The 45 started to arrive. There would be min flight treated us to amazing 2 training weekends, one in the Our return trip to the hotel views of Everest, Annapurna and Lake District and another in the provided an experience we Machapuchare which were simply Peaks. We would collect clothes, will never forget as the 6 of us breath-taking. toys and other items such as decided to hire a Rickshaw; 2 footballs, frisbees, pens, chalk in each one! It was scary and We landed at Pokhara and were and even an iPad that we would exhilarating, especially when the soon on the mini bus for an hour donate to a local orphanage in driver pulled straight out of a side and half drive to our start point. Kathmandu. My daughter-in- road, across 2 lanes of moving We saw some beautiful scenery

30 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Community and Charity Expedition 2017 Tue 11 Apr with the noise of the rushing river the clouds were moving in again us all the opportunity to have We were up at 4 am to start our below completing the scene. It and it didn’t look good. We were photos taken. climb to Poon Hill, a height of was a day of trekking a little bit up now climbing through deep snow 3180 m. This was a long hike as but mostly down the mountain and into the cloud, we could no Time to leave ABC and return once we left the village it was but we eventually reached our longer see anything above us to civilisation, a further 4 steps all the way. Pitch black, next stop-over in Sinuwa at 2340 but we pushed on. The going days of trekking but that’s apart from the beam off our head m. Admin, eat, brief, and sleep. was slow, the average cadence another story! torches, we eventually arrived of walking was around 80 steps a at the top of Poon Hill which Thu 13 Apr minute and we were struggling to Epilogue gave us our first real sight of the We are now getting better at do 40 but at long last ABC came As we travelled through the Annapurna Mountain range. our admin and were ready and into view at 4150m, we’d done it villages on our way to ABC we It was incredibly cold but the packed even before the 6:30 am and the relief had opportunities to hand out views, as the sun came up, were breakfast call. We set off soon after was unbelievable. clothes, dental equipment and simply incredible. The trip back 7 am and for the first couple of other gifts to the children. A down was much easier and we hours walked through beautiful However, within an hour we heart-warming experience just to headed back to the tea house for forests seeing some amazing encountered a snow storm and see the smiles on their faces. On a welcome breakfast. views which included a variety by now it was extremely cold our last day of the trip, we met of wildlife. We continued onto and dark. The thunder was loud the children in the orphanage run We then set off for Banthanti Bamboo arriving well ahead and the snow was coming down by DR and we handed out the where we would break for lunch. of schedule and feeling rather fast! Breathing was difficult and remainder of our donations; all Along the way we met several pleased with our level of fitness, headaches were kicking in – 160 kg of it! children and gave each of them a which was improving by the day, altitude sickness. It was time to few gifts which raised our spirits all that training was starting to get a couple of hours sleep before Tracey and I had chosen a small just to see the smiles on their pay off. We were in good spirits the evening meal, although sleep charity called Odyssey that faces – job done. After a pleasant until a member of the team tore was light as the storm continued. enhances the quality of life for meal we set off again, the views a tendon in her leg. It was touch After eating we had our brief. people with cancer by running of the mountains were again and go as to whether she could Would our descent be delayed challenging and dramatic stunning as we passed through carry on, but she was determined due to the snow? We would just activities in the great outdoors. forests with Rhododendron, wild to keep going. An assessment have to wait and see. A friend of ours had suffered Orchids and Magnolia trees before would be made by Al at our from breast cancer and had been reaching Chule, our stop for the next stop-over. The evening proved to be quite supported by Odyssey and we night. eventful as around 7 pm a female were delighted to raise money We carried on through trekker was carried into base for the charity. We have been A pattern was forming: arrive at challenging terrain and having camp suffering from hypothermia overwhelmed by the generosity location; sort our admin out; eat; crossed a glacier with a fast and exhaustion. Her guide had of so many friends and family brief and finally bed. flowing river below we eventually wanted her to stay down in MBC who kindly sponsored us and reached Durerali. It was extremely due to the storm but she had overall we raised £1575. Wed 12 Apr cloudy, cold with not much to insisted on carrying on. During We had a slightly later start on see until the cloud lifted to reveal the night she was evacuated Overall, this was a wonderful Wednesday, although some views of the snowy mountain back down for medical assistance! experience and an opportunity of members of the team got up at range. The snow was getting Evidence that you respect the a lifetime never to be forgotten. 6 am to see the sunrise over the closer! Admin, eat, brief and sleep. mountain and listen to Three weeks later we received an mountains. Throughout the day Tomorrow was the big day, the the guides! email from Al; how did we fancy we came across a few foot bridges final push to ABC. Everest Base Camp in October that had been built by Ghurka Sat 15 Apr 2018! Now where’s that all Regiments and these crossed Fri 14 Apr We woke to clear blue skies and inclusive holiday brochure? ravines of various heights. Testing The morning started with a a magnificent view which gave by WO Andy Russell moments for some members mixture of excitement and of the team but there was no trepidation; breathing was turning back, we had to push on. becoming difficult and the pace was slow. The trek seemed to We continued on to Chromrong start quite gently though and we where we stopped for lunch. were all feeling positive. However, Some had fried potatoes with the lack of oxygen really started cheese, something akin to to affect us but we eventually Bombay Potatoes, with bits of reached Machapuchare Base tomato and grated cheese. I had Camp, the last resting point pizza! After our break we trekked before the climb to ABC. After down to the valleys and to coffee and chocolate we set another foot bridge! This gave us off for the final push to the top. amazing views of waterfalls and Initially the view up and down the valleys that were full of colour and mountain was stunning, however,

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Mainpoint Summer 2017 33 Sports RAF Girls Festival of Rugby

he rain did not discourage side to much excitement and Plans are already underway for the Rugby Union’s desire to support over 300 rugby-mad girls rapturous applause. The crowd, RAF Girls Festival of Rugby in the grassroots rugby and encourage T converging at RAF Halton which included Air Marshal Phil RAF 100 Centenary April 2018. maximum participation in a in March for the 1st RAF Girls Osborn, the RAFRU President, game underpinned by teamwork, Festival of Rugby community Air Vice Marshal Andy Turner, The CEO of SecureCloud+, Peter respect, sportsmanship and fun!” outreach project supported by Air Vice Marshal Christina Elliot, Williamson, said: “The whole SecureCloud+. Local U13s, U15s Group Captain James Brayshaw day has been fantastic, it has Flying Officer Rob Bell, who and U18s teams from Reading & (RAF Halton Station Commander) surpassed everyone’s wildest helped organise the event, said: Newbury, Old Northamptonians, and Group Captain Al Lewis the expectations and illustrates the “The event was primarily set up Old Albanians, Grove, RAFRU Honorary Secretary, spent countless opportunities that to raise the Service profile and Peterborough and Basingstoke time chatting and posing for young women have in achieving a promote RAF career opportunities arrived, mid-downpour, at RAF photographs with the players work sport balance in the Royal Air to an audience of 300 under 18 Halton to mark the start of what and the 2 England Internationals Force. On behalf of SecureCloud+ female rugby players and parents would be a unique day of rugby. before the matches concluded. we would like to thank everyone with a view to encouraging the in the Royal Air Force for making girls to consider an RAF career. Midway through the pool The smile on the faces of all this such a memorable day It showed potential recruits the matches and to the girl’s the girls, coaches and helpers for all the girls that took part life and work of the RAF through amazement, the roar of a was testament to the unbridled in the event”. Air Marshal Phil RAF Recruitment stands, Air Cadet helicopter overhead alerted the success of the event, proving that Osborn, RAFRU President, said: engagement and high profile girls that something special was a career in the Royal Air Force is “I am delighted the day has RAF female sports personalities. about to happen. A Puma Mk2 “No Ordinary Job”. This included been such a success, it is always All in all it was an extremely helicopter from RAF Benson the amazing Air Cadets who fantastic to see so many young successful event with the with 2 England Internationals, helped in the organisation of the players enjoying our marvellous participants being fit and Claire Allan (36 caps) and Meg day and were rewarded with a trip sport. In particular, such events motivated playing a high Jones (2 caps) landed pitch in the Puma Mk2 helicopter. underline the Royal Air Force standard of Rugby Union.”

34 Mainpoint Summer 2017 AF Badminton Events at RAF Halton Sports *** 2 – 3 Oct 17: RAF Inter-Station Champs

*** 13 – 14 Nov 17: Open Challenge Tournament

*** 5 – 7 Feb 18: RAF Open Tournament

*** RAF Basketball Association

n 24 Apr 17, 16 full of big athletic forwards, who members of the RAF were full of confidence from OBasketball Association seeing the earlier game. The RAF (RAFBBA) gathered at RAF started strong and once again Cosford for the 2 wk training was leading after the 1st quarter. camp leading to the 2017 Inter-Service Championship, The 2nd quarter continued to which was this year hosted at be a physical affair with both Aldershot by the Army. teams trading hard fought baskets and overcoming hard It was a gruelling 2 wk period fouls to put points on the board, of practices, followed by warm but it was the Army team who up games against formidable went into the half slightly up on National League teams: the scoreboard. The RAF team Derbyshire Arrows; Sefton Stars continued their spirited and and Shropshire Warriors, to help physical mentality for the rest the team prepare for the rigours of the game, but an upset was of the 2 games against the Navy not to be, as the Army showed and Army teams. the experience that has ensured that they have won the last 7 This, coupled with the were as prepared as possible. the 2nd quarter and go into the Inter-Services in succession, to knowledge that only 12 players One last practice game and the half 2 points up. The Navy now keep the RAF team at bay and would be making the trip down team headed to Aldershot with had the wind in their sails and claim a 66 - 51 victory. to Aldershot, it was safe to the mentality of being able to continued to lead a close game say everyone was playing all pull off an upset against both going into the 4th quarter. The The team had come a long out in each session to ensure the Navy and the Army squads. RAF team didn’t manage to hit way from being distraught they were part of the squad. the heights that they had shown at losing the first game in a Unfortunately, the coaching The first game on 5 May 17 in the warm up games, or even fashion no one could believe, team, led by Head Coach Flt Lt pitted the RAF team vs the the practices and during the 4th to the passion and spirit shown Rich Weeks, had the unenviable Navy team, with the losing team allowed the Navy to go on and against tough opposition in task of telling 4 players that knowing that they would have take the game 89 - 65. the final game. This final game they would be going home and to re-group and play again later Que a stunned RAF locker has perhaps shown a platform wouldn’t be needed during the that day against a fresh Army room, where no one could for the team to use to try and 2nd week of practice. team. The winner would get a quite comprehend how our secure the championship in nights rest before playing the performance had dipped so 2018 at RAF Cosford in the RAF’s Finally, after having a rest Army the next day. The game much, after such a great start. centenary year. day, the 12 selected players started in perfect fashion for the reconvened with an even RAF with good passing and on However, the team would have The final was a close affair stronger mentality of playing court decision making leading to dust themselves off and try throughout, with the Navy for what minutes were available to an early lead through the 1st again 3 hrs later in the game no team showing the steel and during the Inter-Service games and start of the 2nd quarter. one had wanted to play against determination which had and showcasing what abilities the Army. The team came out seen them fight back in their they each brought to the team. However, the resilient Navy and showed the resilience that first game to come out as The next few days were spent team weren’t ‘hanging’ around was missing in the first game unexpected winners by 2 points pushing each other to the limit and wouldn’t give up, before and set out to create a shock and break the Army’s dominance in a bid to ensuring the team making a remarkable run to end against an Army team who were in the men’s tournament.

Mainpoint Summer 2017 35 Sports London Marathon 2017 ith the weather forecast missed a sub 3:30. She was also he overtook him as the race well outside his target, still suggesting near perfect only narrowly beaten by 1st progressed through 35 K. With posted as first service athlete and Wconditions, runners RAF lady, Sgt Carrie Ward (RAF elite athlete status, Kallenberg a credible performance given were hopeful for a fast day in Lossiemouth), coming home in a had prepared well for the event the preparations. the capital and a tailwind over time of 3:30:16. Carrie applied her including having won the Inter- the first few miles was going previous marathon experience Services Half Marathon at Fleet a With an impressive consistency to make for a swift start. The in starting off at a steady pace, month earlier. of speed, Partridge proved the London Marathon is used as but, a calf issue at 17 miles meant benefits of a well- balanced race both the RAF and Inter-Services she had to slow her pace and dig Livesey meanwhile was and came in as 5th service, 2nd Championships, allowing athletes deep to finish. competing as an unknown RAF in 2:35:59, with Van Kints to make the most of enduring its quantity having been deployed just behind in 2:40:33 as the extensive preparations For Cpl Alison Cartlidge (RAF for much of the previous year 8th service man. With the Army and challenges. Northolt) this was also her first and with limited training due having placed in 2nd, 3rd and marathon. She had thrown to the tempo of the front line. 4th places, their combined times A strong male squad were herself into training from With the RAF duo having gone achieved victory in the Inter- looking to retain their title, with Christmas in preparation for the through 5 km in a shade under Services, with the RN placing 6th the ladies looking to perform gruelling and emotional distance. 2:12 pace, by the 9 mile mark and 7th to pepper the top 10 well as a team. Anything could Her race started well but she this proved too fast for Livesey with all 3 services. happen given experienced Army began to have left leg issues from as he elected to drop back from challengers and the uncertainties mile 17 and found it hard going, the paced group. Kallenberg The event provided an excellent of 26.2 miles. especially the final 3 miles down meanwhile stuck it out for a opportunity to showcase the the Embankment, where you can while longer before easing off RAF within a high profile event. The ladies team comprised 5 see all the way down the Thames slightly, with Livesey closing With both Kallenberg and runners, for 2 it would be their to Westminster knowing the back to him following the Livesey having been escorted by first ever marathon. Nerves and finish line is within your grasps. half-way mark. the television motorbike for the excitement were high on the Running past her family at the first half, this provided excellent day and with most of the ladies 22 mile mark gave her the extra Running together until 10 km coverage of both the RAF vest having competed in various push needed to finish in a time to go, their pace settled a little and the RAF Athletic Association civilian and RAF Cross Country of 3:47:22. Feeling proud to have although the early antics had prime sponsor, the Royal events over their winter training completed her first marathon paid their price as Kallenberg British Legion. preparations. They were feeling unscathed and undeterred, she withdrew at the 20 mile mark. in peak condition due to strong definitely wants to run it again. Livesey continued at a steady The Team are grateful for their and consistent performances pace and finished strongly to support and that from the RAF at events such as the Fleet Having successfully run the record 2:19:54, which although Central Fund, since without them Half Marathon. With the team Manchester Marathon only weeks split across the ‘Championship’ earlier, Sgt Heather Beattie (RAF and the ‘Good for Age’ starting Waddington) set off at a strong areas it would be hard to start pace but unfortunately had to off conservatively and not get withdraw around the 10 mile dragged off too fast in the first mark. The crowds with cheers few miles. Conditions were ideal, of ‘Come on the Air Force’ with the sun starting to peep certainly encouraged the ladies through the clouds just in time and made everyone proud to for the start. be wearing their RAF vests. The Army ladies proved to be SAC Rebecca Walker (RAF Wyton) extremely strong with some went off hard and through impressive times, but the RAF 10 K, half way and 15 miles at ladies secured 2nd team overall PB pace. She had to slow the in the Inter-Services competition. pace in the latter miles and recalls afterwards that she set The men approached the race off to quickly and paid for it later in a variety of ways: Sqn Ldr Ben in the race. However, she still Livesey (RAF Coningsby), and managed to finish strongly with SAC Mike Kallenberg (AFCO a marathon PB of 3:38:46 and 3rd Leeds) opted to push early with place in the RAF Championship the pacemakers, both targeting race. Taking 2nd place in the RAF the Commonwealth Games race was marathon newcomer Flt qualifying standard. SAC Oscar Lt Nat Brown (RAF Waddington) Partridge (RAF High Wycombe) in an impressive time of 3:30:46, meanwhile settled in to his having had a great run at Fleet stride early on and despite being in March she certainly showed behind Flt Lt Dutch Van Kints her strength and only just (Waddington) in the early stages,

36 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Sports

the sports of Distance running, Track and Field and Tug of War would be far lesser supported or invested in. Moving in to the summer, the Association will now focus on the Inter- Services Championships on the Track, Field and Tug of War, all of which will also provide athletes an opportunity to progress to UK Armed Forces representation and international competitions. The future is bright and strengthening across all cadres.

MEN NAME TEAM TIME 18 Colin Paton Army 2.49.11 ARMY 1 Ben Livesey RAF 2.19.54 19 Ryan Kestle RN 2.49.37 NAME TIME 2 Paul Molyneux Army 2.25.39 20 Martin Higgins RAF(V) 2.50.22 Paul Molyneux 2.25.39 3 Tristan Steed Army 2.29.32 21 Matt Cornish RAF 2.51.09 Tristan Steed 2.35.59 4 Ady Whitwam Army(V) 2.31.16 22 Dinger Bell Army 2.52.25 Ady Whitwam 2.40.33 5 Oscar Partridge RAF 2.35.59 23 Bryn Phillips RN 2.52.55 TOTAL 7.36.26 6 Josh Davis RN 2.36.41 24 Paul Bucknell RAF 2.56.45 7 Andy Stay RN 2.37.06 25 Matt East Army 2.58.06 8 Andy Vankints RAF 2.40.33 26 Doug Davis RAF 2.58.41 9 Josh Crowther RN 2.42.04 ARMY 27 Simon Bell RAF 2.59.13 10 Dave Beckenkrager RN(V) 2.43.25 NAME TIME 11 Andy Brice RN 2.45.39 28 Stuart Henderson Army 2.59.17 Lorna Macdonald 2.59.24 29 Roger Padley Army 3.00.20 12 Andy Taylor RAF 2.46.02 Nerys Hughes 3.06.41 30 Richard Bateson RAF 3.04.24 13 Rob Sim RAF 2.47.02 Roanna Vickers 3.07.16 14 George Fisher Army 2.48.01 31 Gareth Crossley Army 3.04.47 TOTAL 9.14.21 15 Matt Allen RAF 2.48.29 32 Russ Hughes Army 3.04.52 16 Andy Smith RN 2.48.44 33 Adrian Foster RN 3.05.54 17 Chris Huggett RN 2.48.56 34 Mike Combe Army 3.11.53 ROYAL NAVY NAME TIME LADIES NAME TEAM TIME ROYAL AIR FORCE NAME TIME Penny Freeman 3.26.00 1 Lorna Macdonald Army 2.59.24 Ben Livesey 2.19.54 Katharine Armstrong 3.39.46 2 Nerys Hughes Army 3.06.41 Oscar Partridge 3.30.46 INCOMPLETE TEAM 3 Roanna Vicker Army 3.07.16 Andy Vankints 3.38.46 4 Penny Freema RN 3.26.00 TOTAL 10.39.48 5 Carrie Ward RAF 3.30.16 ROYAL AIR FORCE ROYAL NAVY 6 Natalie Bown RAF 3.30.46 NAME TIME NAME TIME 7 Liz Harvey Army 3.34.06 Carrie Ward 3.30.16 Josh Davis 2.36.41 8 Rebecca Walker RAF 3.38.46 Natalie Bown 3.30.46 Andy Stay 2.37.06 9 Katharine Armstrong RN(V) 3.39.46 Rebecca Walker 3.38.46 Josh Crowther 2.42.04 10 Alison Cartilage RAF 3.47.22 TOTAL 10.39.48 TOTAL 7.55.51

Mainpoint Summer 2017 37 You could be in the Algarve, relaxing in the sun...

Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its own residents’ swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle of the town centre but within walking distance (10 minutes to the marina and another 5 to the town centre).

It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster, fridge freezer and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD ,CD player and WiFi are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. There is ample car parking space in front of the building. www.algarveestatemanagement.co.uk apt meia PRICES: Jan - March £225 April £300 May £325 June £375 July/August £475 Sept £375 Oct £325 Nov/Dec £250

To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884 Apartments can also be booked very competitively at [email protected] Malta Sports Marathon ollowing on from the stoned architecture. The ‘silent was setting up to be a beautiful With the gates to the city just success of the 2016 Malta city’ of Mdina acting as the start day. A combination of downhill ahead it was a steep decline FMarathon, the 2017 edition line to the Malta Marathon. running and warm weather down to the prestige Pieta looked set to be an even bigger both make for a potentially fast harbour. The temperature athletic occasion. With 15, pain This reduced the perspective on course. There was only one way started to increase, along with seeking and limit pushing what was once the ever distant to find out… With your typical the anticipation of the runners participants from RAF Halton 2017 event, to just a day. So with last preparations, toilet break, bag seeing the finishing line along signing up for either the half some final preparations, including drop and good gestures to fellow the coast line. Crowds started or full marathon. In addition to the standard carbohydrate runners, it was time to toe the to appear within a couple of participants from RAF Halton, loading and stretching out the start line and wait for the miles of the finish, willing all there were also contingents from legs the evening before, all gun shot. participants to the end. A great RAF Henlow and Defence School RAF Halton participants were atmosphere to end what was of Aeronautical Engineering ready to run… Or were they? The route remained unchanged a great race through a great (DSAE) Cosford, who would from previous years, but the Island. Malta is a truly captivating be ‘enjoying’ the event whilst With a 0500 hrs start, the hotel journey was just as scenic and appreciating island. demonstrating the increased we were staying at came alive and breath-taking as ever. popularity of the event across with the majority of individuals The breathless-ness part was All RAF teams put in good the RAF. making their final preparations, predominately down to the run performances with times being before transcending on the coach itself though! Throughout the between 2 hrs 52 mins – 4 The ever-growing Malta transfer area, which was just a duration of the race, there were hrs 27 mins for the marathon Marathon had a record number short walk away from the hotel. various historical landmarks and 1hr 16 mins – 2 hrs 30 of 4500 applications, with 2,481 On the coach journey to the and cultural areas passed. mins for the half distance. of these being foreign athletes, start line, people were trying to a 16% increase from the 2016 squeeze in ‘power naps’ to make The National Stadium and With the main prize giving marathon. Weather reports from up for the early start. Although US Embassy were buildings taking place in St Julian’s previous RAF Malta Marathon these were in vain that imposed great presence Hotel, a small evening award participants have varied, with as it didn’t take long to arrive on the area. This was also the ceremony was organized for all some reporting running through at Mdina. area that the half marathon RAF personnel who performed snow, others gale force runners merged with the in the event to recognise winds and some discussing Starting at the highest point in marathon runners, before personal achievements, intense sunshine. All runners Malta, which was 200 m high, heading east across the heart followed by a celebratory meal were definitely hoping for the there was only one direction this of Malta to the coastal town and drinks to reflect on our latter! The days leading up course was going which was of Sliema. It was then on to shared race experience. Bring to and beyond the event downhill thankfully. The weather the capital city of Valetta. on Malta Marathon 2018! consisted of your typical Mediterranean sunshine.

The detachment deployed a couple of days prior to the event allowing for some sightseeing tied in with Force Development, with trips to the capital city Valletta and the ‘silent city’ of Mdina. Both cities displayed such a wealth of war related history, cultural heritage and beautifully

Mainpoint Summer 2017 39 Sports

RAF Rugby Union (Women) Tour 2017 fter an impressive combinations and positions to team from maintaining the fantastic briefs on the benefits Inter-Services 2017 take forward for future fixtures. discipline with their early NASA has had on the RAF, the Aand record breaking morning phys and afternoon technical advances NASA has win against the Navy, the The second fixture against the training sessions. Whilst made, as well as the instrumental RAF Rugby Union (Women) Florida High Performance team in Florida the team took females who were vital (RUW) and management team was not only against a strong advantage of their surroundings, throughout the Space Race in a departed RAF Halton on 29 opposition, but was played participating in a demanding male dominated environment. Apr in preparation to compete at 1400 hrs in hot and humid high ropes course that required in 3 fixtures in the USA. Early conditions in Daytona Beach. them to work together to get On a Tour that saw props morning runs, training and Not to be disgruntled by the through the unexpectedly become wingers and a team strength and conditioning conditions the team confidently difficult course and encourage become even more of a family, sessions in stifling heat aided coasted to a 100 - 0 win. those more wary. Everyone it’s safe to say the future looks the team in becoming efficiently made it through and after a bright for RAF RUW and I cannot acclimatised to conditions. The intense training sessions couple of tumbles later the team wait to be a part of it. The team whilst in Florida paying off and were 'all clear' to take part in and management are incredibly The first game against a allowing the team to produce the rest of the week’s exciting grateful to all who enabled this determined and resilient a fantastic result. Unfortunately events. Tour to happen from those that Jacksonville Sinners saw the RAF the final fixture against Florida assisted in organisation, to the RUW hit the ground running state champions, Fort Miami A Force Development Day sponsors. Special thanks go to with an impressive 36 - 0 win. had to be cancelled due to their enabled the team to visit The the RAF Sports Board, RAF Sports This game enabled the team teams mounting injuries. Kennedy Space Centre (aka Federation, CAE, SecureCloud+, to look at a variety of different Though this did not stop the NASA). Where 3 players delivered ANWR and Centerprise.

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Mainpoint Summer 2017 Sports Exercise Icey Slopes Val Thorens 25 Mar – 1 Apr 17

little before 3 am on in groups of 8. After this was the already acclaimed competence. included trying to parallel ski for Sat 25 Mar by the main issuing of Ski equipment and the After a successful first day on the the first time, this meant lots of A guard room around 30 mandatory skiing brief which piste the groups locked away falling over for everyone. After a individuals across the station was conducted by the expedition their equipment and headed morning of bumps and bruises began to board a bus ahead leader prior to the start of the back to their apartments to cook they all started to get the hang of of what was set to be a brilliant SF1 syllabus. Following this, the their evening meals. Given that it, a real baptism by fire. Towards week. This was the first day of Ex skiers were keen to head out into one of the groups had a qualified the end of the day the beginners Icy Slopes and after an icy cold the busy resort to sample a few chef, the self-catering turned were going down some red coach journey to Gatwick, a flight refreshments, pick up essentials into a very rewarding aspect of slopes, which were more to Chambery and a transfer, the and nominate establishments for the trip. That night as many of challenging, especially due to the group would find themselves in the ‘après ski’. the individuals headed into town heavy use during the day which the world-famous ski resort of Val to enjoy some well-earned first made it very lumpy and harder to Thorens, ready to begin their Ski Sunday morning started with day refreshments, the instructors turn. Those new to skiing learned Foundation 1 (SF1) package. a rendezvous of the entire took the time to assess the that skiing on an intensively used group at the base of the main group placements and make a piste, was a different beast to Often this package is done piste, happily a stone's throw few changes to those who had the fresh powder of the previous in Bavaria, but thanks to the away from the well chosen either underestimated, or more day. Monday concluded with tireless endeavors of Sgt apartments. Excited faces and comically evident; overestimated the groups heading back to the Wayne Hopewell and Sgt David a few nervous ones were all lit their skiing ability. accommodation to cook a group Hodgkinson months and months by the most glorious sunshine meal and relax. previous, all members of the trip and blue skies, happy in the Monday morning, day 2 of now had the unique opportunity knowledge there had been an the SF1 syllabus promised as Tuesday morning, day 3 of to take on this outstanding immense 30 cm snow fall from brilliant weather as Sundays, the SF1 syllabus. The day of French Ski location. the previous day and night. the only difference being the skiing started early as usual; we The groups were split up into slightly aching legs that had collaborated in the lobby of Not only did the week set categories matching their own been earned as a subsequent the accommodation and then promises for development of personal skillset. The day began to the previous days’ efforts. headed off onto the slopes. The already existing skills, but with with the groups breaking off and The day started with great faces of the skiers had started the wealth of instructional enjoying the fresh powdered excitement. You could see the to express less apprehension by knowledge from those such snow down less challenging confidence mounting in even now and more commitment, as Sgt Wayne Hopewell and FS slopes. the most novice, eager to show as if everyone had a set plan of Tommy Doherty, individuals off some of the new turns they’d just what they wanted to master brand new to skiing such as SAC Those who were brand new to learned. All the groups began by the end of the day. After a Lloyd, would be able to go from skiing began building on the with a warm-up and stretch- slow start to find our feet people ‘zero to hero’ in the space of a basic movements fundamental off before finding their feet slowly progressed onto the more mere week. to the SF1 syllabus while those at again, practicing the Central advanced red runs to challenge the higher end of the spectrum Theme techniques taught in the themselves and get out of the On arrival at Val Thorens, the spent the morning warming previous lessons. 'comfort zone' a bit.It was a group was given some time to up their skis before heading thoroughly enjoyable morning settle into their self-catering to slightly more intermediate The day progressed by learning as ever and after the skiing apartments, which were assigned slopes to carefully tease out their more of the basics which was finished we met in one of

42 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Sports

the local establishments in Val runaway skies, which continue to meal was booked for everyone forms had been completed, the Thorens for lunch. The afternoon travel under the snows surface to attend, where we discussed evening saw groups heading to compiled of utilising the skills when liberated during a fall. the best falls, top student, most a number of the brilliant eateries, they had learnt up until now and Thursday morning, showed improved and some just good ol’ abundant in the resort. An early they completed a human slalom another blessing with the fashioned exped bonding. night was on the cards ahead down a blue run to finish. weather. By now, everyone’s of what was an early departure legs had begun to toughen up Friday morning started with the before the travel home. The entire beginner group were to the daily beatings, allowing brilliant news that all expedition involved with the human slalom them to wake up feeling fresh personnel had gained their SF1 On the fresh Saturday morning, including the instructors, to and ready for new challenges. qualification. A great sense of before the coach arrived, encourage them to parallel turn Instructors conveyed to the pride and achievement could members of the exped could instead of plough turning. The skiers, that as fortunate as the be sensed. The groups remained be seen exiting the local bakery intermediate group tackled red weather had been, they should with their instructors for a self- outside the apartments. The runs to challenge their skiing bear in mind that weather can guided skiing day on piste. As sweet smell in the air from the skills on steeper slopes. For some, turn very quickly and skiing in a peer group of SF1 qualified pastries and treats purchased breaking the mould from the heavy snowfall can offer the personnel, they were free to left a pleasant taste in everyone's tried and tested ‘snow plough’ same perils as driving in severe select and navigate around the mind of what had been an was easier said than done, but fog. The beginner group had skiing area under the indirect immensely enjoyable week. eventually it became clear there by now advanced on to harder supervision of an instructor. The coach turned up and so really was a glass ceiling to this blue and red runs with ease After an exhibition of their new- began a smooth journey back to technique. The rest of the day and some smooth linked turns found enthusiasm, flare and RAF Halton. consisted of confidence building were evident. One of the red competence the whole exped on various blue and red runs runs briefly crossed over a black decided to meet for a group meal Success! The week had been before heading back to triumphant. Not only had the accommodation. everyone achieved the SF1 qualification, but friends had Wednesday morning, day 4 of been made amongst service the SF1 syllabus. The exped personnel across RAF Halton who had great anticipation and an would otherwise have had little eagerness to get skiing due to interaction with each other. These the overnight dump of snow. friendships would subsequently You could sense an almost strengthen professional ties competitiveness to beat the across different sections on the other local skiers to the piste, to station. Members of the exped be the first to make their mark could now recount tales of by tattooing personal carvings comedy and accomplishments into the side of the mountain. to workmates as well as looking The groups made the usual eagerly forward to future skiing journey to the meeting point run and they were all given the in the mountains to reflect over ventures and progression. and then off up the mountain, choice to challenge themselves the week. Over the table you where they weren’t disappointed. with a short black or easy red. All could hear exciting conversation The whole week could not have You could see straight away that completed it and although some over future skiing adventures. been undertaken without the the area in which they had been where a little shaken after, they tireless efforts from the exped skiing had a sufficient amount of where all justly proud that they Once off the piste the kit was directors and instructors, to snowfall overnight. This day saw managed to achieve something returned and accommodation whom everyone was very a new style of skiing instruction they didn’t think was possible at cleaned. After course validation rightly appreciative. and techniques required to ski the start of the week. in fresh snow. All the groups were significantly challenged by The other groups continued this new sensation they were to work on techniques they experiencing. All the groups had had been taught on previous got the bug of skiing in fresh days such as parallel turns, powder and the odd tumble side slipping, and hockey was easily laughed off due to stops etc. (Mountain skills). The the soft landing. This day was intermediate group had also a great insight to SF2 and SF3 moved on to variable terrain opportunities. As welcomed as and continued to build their the fresh snow was, instructors confidence and technique, tried to hit home some of the laying the ground-work for an difficulties that inherently come SF2 package in the future. That with it, from avalanches to evening an expedition group

Mainpoint Summer 2017 43 Sports Exercise Canyon Rock xercise Canyon Rock was Mather Camp Ground but not We found some shade for lunch point. On the day of trekking we conducted from 10 - 21 before the obligatory trip to the and took the weight off our legs. used the South Kaibab trail along EOct 16, involving a total of Hoover Dam. When back on the Twenty minutes passed and we the Colorado River and back up 12 personnel from RAF Halton, road we stopped at a little café on were all good to go for the return Bright Angel Trail. The main goal one individual from RAF Cosford Route 66 for a spot of lunch. Once trek, 3 miles up the same way. The for our time in the Grand Canyon and one individual from RAF at the camp we bedded down round trip took approximately 5 was to make it to the bottom of Benson. The expedition was an for the night. Let me tell you, hrs, we took our time, had plenty the Canyon and get our feet wet AT expedition to beat all others. getting 2 fighting aged males in a of breaks and relished the views in the Colorado River and then It involved viewing, tabbing and small 2 man tent has its troubles which were breath taking from back up in one day. cycling some of the USA’s finest and impracticalities. start to finish. This was a fantastic natural wonders and National first day in the Canyon. Days 1 and 2 were the build Parks. We covered 3 States that The Grand Canyon is one of most up to hopefully achieving our included Arizona, Utah and awe inspiring sites I have ever The next day we trekked the goal. We started our decent at Nevada. The expedition was witnessed. The word awesome Bright Angel trail. This trail 0600 hrs following the same split into 3 parts. The first part gets thrown around too much involved zig zagging your way route as day one. We pushed was 3 days trekking in the Grand these days but I can confirm down 3195 ft to Indian Garden, on passed Skeleton point (our Canyon. The second was 2 days seeing it with my own eyes it was an Oasis situated in a crease in Day 1 objective) and found trekking in the Zion Canyon exactly that. The first day trekking the canyon wall. From the start ourselves at the river within 3.5 and the third involved 2 days the canyon was a 6 mile route, 3 point, nearly 100 switchbacks hrs, descending over 4860 ft in mountain biking at Red miles down, 3 miles up. The aim snake down the canyon. The the process. The trail was well Rock Canyon. of the day was to introduce the Indian Gardens is a fantastic rest maintained; mostly gravel with majority of the team to Canyon point, lots of shade, water points good traction or large stair type The Exped started on the 10 Oct trekking and to get familiar with and seating. We pushed on to steps. The trail was initially quite 16 where we all met at Gatwick our kit and equipment we would Plateau Point. Plateau Point was a busy but as we ventured further airport at 0600 hrs. Once through be carrying for the next 5 days. spectacular overlook with views down it became extremely quiet custom control we all sat, ate of the Colorado River and the and peaceful. The temperature breakfast and discussed our plans The first mile of the trail to Ooh– inner canyon's depth. We utilised change was very obvious, warm for the next 12 days. Ahh Point was fairly gentle and some rock for shade and went but comfortable. an ideal start to the first day. It's firm for a 20 mins lunch break. Once we landed at McCarran Int a fairly popular trail but wasn't We dipped our toes in the Airport, Las Vegas we made our overly crowded. At the 3 mile We were joined by 2 Condors, Colorado River and then found way to our hotel. We received point, called Skeleton Point, there birds which circled our area for 5 some shade on the river bank and our brief on the do’s and don’ts was a large enough elevation or so mins, we were all amazed enjoyed a 20 mins lunch break. and were given our timings for change to notice a difference in with the 10 ft wing span, an We continued along the river trail the following day. We then all temperature from top to bottom. amazing site and experience. To that handrails the Colorado for ventured out together for food We planned for warmer weather return, you simply make a U-turn approximately 2.7 km. It was soon and to explore the city. In the than at the Rim and of course and head back up the canyon time to tackle the uphill phase of morning we made our way to carried plenty of water. to the South Rim, our starting the trek, all 4860 ft of it.

44 Mainpoint Summer 2017 Sports

We made it to Indian Gardens in the toilets and wash facilities the canyon to the trail heads. trickling down. I’m sure on a hot good time and had a 30 mins rest, were plentiful and very clean. While they were there they took day it would be refreshing but in making the most of the shade Whilst the group went to the the opportunity to speak to the this wind we didn’t need cooling. and replenishing our water. We supermarket to buy provisions Rangers again and ask about the We returned to the shuttle bus had a further two 10 mins stops to cook on the camp fire, the current weather situation and the stop and went to the ‘Court of on the way up, utilising the ATI’s went to the visitor’s centre weather for the next day. More the Patriarchs’. rest houses. where they could get up to date bad news! The storms continued information on the local weather. north of the Canyon which would This was a walk along the We completed the trek in 8½ hrs As they expected, the Park affect our planned riverside walk. river on a very sandy trail which (we were told it would take 10) and were all still in pretty good shape and spirits were still high. We all treated ourselves to a well- deserved ice cream, overlooking the Canyon and reminisced on the previous amazing 3 days trekking.

The road journey from the Grand Canyon to Zion Canyon was long. The sun was shining and we were looking forward to another 2 days of good quality trekking with some different challenges to those set in the Grand Canyon. The first thing that the Exped members noted was that we were driving downhill! This meant that the walks would be more Rangers told them that strong There was a chance of flash floods made it tough going on the traditional and start from the winds were around for the next and they were advising people legs. The walk was around 3 hrs bottom up. Both ATI’s noticed that few days and there were storms not to go into ‘The narrows’. in duration and looped around it was very windy and straight north of the Canyon which would on a path shared with mules so away they were concerned for affect our planned riverside walk The ATI’s already had a plan caution was needed. After a dust the safety of the walk to Angels tomorrow as there was a chance and put it into action. We got filled day, we returned to the Landing. of flash floods. Time for ATI’s to the shuttle to the trail head of campsite, washed away the dirt think of plan B! ‘Weeping Rock’. It was a short and prepared the food for The scenery was stunning, on the The sun was up but unfortunately, walk of less than a mile but the the evening. drive in we passed ‘Checkerboard so was the wind! It was clear to trail was narrow and very dusty. Messa’ and ‘The Great Arch’. We both ATI’s that a walk to Angels The dust was being blown around After a good night sleep and went straight to the camp site, Landing wasn’t going to happen. which didn’t help the eyes. We breakfast, the ATI’s completed a it was busy and the pitches We needed to go to the visitor got to several overhanging dynamic risk assessment and it were quite close together but centre to get the shuttle bus up gardens where water was slowly was clear that with 35 mph gusts in the Canyon, meant it would be too dangerous to walk to Angels Landing as the winds would be much stronger 1488 ft up. It was decided to break camp as we needed to vacate the campsite by 1000 hrs. We then proceeded to the trailheads via the shuttle bus.

The trail led us to ‘The Emerald Pools’. This was a ‘lower pool’ and an ‘upper pool’. Again, the wind kicked up the dust but we soon made it to the lower pool. It was a small pool in a picturesque location looking to the opposite side of the canyon. There wasn’t a huge amount of water so we quickly moved up to the ‘upper pool’. The upper pool was bigger and was more sheltered. You could clearly see why it was called ‘Emerald Pools’.

Mainpoint Summer 2017 45 Sports

The green colour was vibrant extremely helpful from the off car park at the start of the trail. some technical sections. Parts and the rock formations above and displayed superb customer We RV’d with the Bike Shop of the track were made up of the pool led to a very small flow service. owner back at the car park, soft sand and this made the of water dripping constantly into loaded the bikes on to the trailer going extremely tough. The the pool. We had a late lunch Our bikes were already loaded and made arrangements for the going was physically demanding and made our way back to the on to the trailer and we were following morning. The plan with what seemed to be more shuttle service. We stopped at given our brand new helmets was, meet at the same drop off uphill than down. We reached the visitor centre and watched straight out the box. Both ATI’s point at 0900 hrs, without the our end point for the route an interesting film of the history had been to the area numerous need to go via the Bike Shop. out. This was a perfect place of the canyon and how it was times so they were already for some lunch and a rest as it formed. We then got in the familiar with the possible routes. On the 10th day we went back was situated on the edge of the vehicles and travelled the 3 hr The drop off point was about to Red Rock Canyon for some Red Rock Canyon. The views journey to the Super 8 motel to 20 mins from the bike shop. more mountain biking. The were fantastic, however it was prepare for the mountain biking. group slept well and met up extremely windy and quiet We had a meeting at the On arrival, we sized off the bikes, after a good breakfast at 0825 cold. The route back seemed a motel to review our activities donned our helmets and after hrs. Some of the men were little easier. It was plain to see

in Zion Canyon. The ATI’s led a conducting a bike famil and complaining of sore backsides, everyone had improved greatly discussion about the change skills test the group headed this was due to not wearing from the first day and were in people from the activities out onto a 2.5 hr circuit route padded cycling shorts. I highly putting their new found skills to in the Grand Canyon to those in the morning and another 2.5 recommend padded shorts are good use. activities in Zion. Particularly hr circuit in the afternoon. The worn for comfort. those who were expecting to trail, part of an extensive and We moved by convoy to the The time had come to depart. It do ‘Angels Landing’. Fear of the well-kept Mustang Trail. This same drop off. On arrival we was a sombre time knowing the unknown and going into ‘stretch’ proved to be both physically and carried out the same routine American dream was over. without doing an activity was mentally demanding and one as the previous morning. The surprisingly evident. individual spent more time on biggest areas for improvement No more country songs while the ground than on his saddle. for the majority of the group driving through the longest On the 9th day we went The trails were route selection, body straightest roads known to man mountain biking in Red Rock were varied with technical position and utilising the correct and no more breath taking Canyon. After a good sleep riding, hill climbs and slow to gears. It was obvious from the views that made you scratch and hearty breakfast we made moderate descents. start of the day that the group’s your head and think how? It was our way to the bike hire shop confidence had increased. an amazing time made better which was approximately 20 There were a lot of escape routes by the comradery we shared mins from our accommodation. in the form of dirt tracks that The route was a straight out and and the achievements we had We were met by the owners of intercept the single path trails, all straight back, lots of undulating gained. the Bike Hire shop who were of which lead back to the main sections, switch backs and Till next time!

46 Mainpoint Summer 2017 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 personally responsible for looking after the market leaders in I sell new and also quality second hand bikes, many of these cycle retail, manufacture and distribution, e.g. Madison/Shimano, come direct from teams and are unique and often have some Fishers/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 2013 and was a representative for the National Association of aspiring instructors, personal skills coaching for individuals or Cycle Traders at ICE bike (Madison/ Shimano trade show) for groups looking to develop their personal skills and can also offer 3 years. I have a professional support network and access to complimentary training such as navigation and first aid. technical 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! Monday and Tuesday ‘Super Deal’ Starter, Main Course and a Drink for £12 Sunday to Thursday ‘Quick Meal Deal’ A Quick Meal Main Course and a Drink for £10 Wednesday and Thursday ‘Curry Deal’ Thai Curry and a Drink for £10 Friday and Saturday Happy Hour 5pm to 6pm 2 Draft Beers or Glasses of House Wine for £5

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