Inside this issue: WWI Commemorations • Eco Sounder • Pathfinder Weekend • FOC • Rat Race

The Official Magazine of RAF Wyton

eagleyeSept/Oct 2014

Fit for Royalty

Brigadier’s Challenge 2 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 3 eagleye

a tractor towed trailer, WO1 Robinson was Sept/Oct literally sent packing, or is that packaged? For those who missed the outgoing RSM’s formal departure, turn to page 10 for an eye The Commanding witness account of WO1 Robinson being delivered to the Officers’ Mess in his ‘Action Officer Will’, ‘now with eagle eyes’ (it was a 70’s thing!) box, one that some believe he arrived RAF Wyton HQ 2014 in when first enlisted! Also in this magazine we have dedicated Wg Cdr Ola Fashade four pages to Wyton’s commemoration of Editorial Team WW1. We have included 14 Sqn (Geo)’s recent Battlefield Study in this article, in Acting OIC: Sgt Simon Rees From The Editor which they took in sites across England, Editor: Sgt Simon Rees elcome to the September/ Belgium and France, and all undertaken Deadline: October edition of Eagleye. while cycling over 500 miles – great effort Nov/Dec 2014 edition of Eagleye Once again we’ve covered a folks. Closer to home, Padre Steve Radley Article submission date: 06 Nov 2014 number of events which will marked the centenary of the outbreak of Eagleye published: 04 Dec 2014 W give you a real flavour of what’s been going on WW1 in the Station church with a service of around the Station over the past few months. prayers and reflection. Advertising Sales By: Jo Marchant Lance Publishing Ltd Tel: (01536) 526678 From the visit of HRH The Duke of Gloucester, As always, we are very grateful for the input to mark the formal declaration of JFIG achieving of sections and individuals who help make Published By: Lance Publishing Ltd, 10 Full Operating Capability, to a number of charity Eagleye what it is by contributing articles and 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering pushes in aid of some great causes, we’ve put allowing us to come and share in some of their NN16 8NL. Tel: (01536) 512624 Fax: 01536 515481 together a selection of articles and stories which events. However, there are apparently ‘blind Email:[email protected] www.lancepublishing.co.uk 06 Contents we hope you’ll read and enjoy. spots’ around the station where evidently Included in this edition of the Station nothing ever happens… Perhaps if you work Designed By: Sherrie Bacarese Contents magazine, we say goodbye to Campbell in a section or area of the Station that has 05 Wiseman, RAF Wyton’s much loved postmaster had little coverage in Eagleye in the past, you Printed By: Lance Print Ltd Tel: 01480 492183 13 and WO1 William Robinson, 42 Engr Regt might consider sharing your life at Wyton with Full Operating Capability| 06 Copyright: Eagleye is not an official 07 (Geo)’s much respected RSM. Having informed the rest of us. Whether an event or occasion Station magazine with a puzzle or recipe you’d like publication; the views expressed in this you of Campbell’s imminent departure in our is organisational, sporting, charitable or to see published in Eagleye. You can even send RSM Bids Farewell| 10 magazine are those of the authors alone and 07 last edition of Eagleye, in this edition we report recreational, big or small, it matters not; we’d us a photo of you reading Eagleye in an interesting do not necessarily reflect official policy. No The Last Post 13 on his ‘Last Post’, CO RAF Wyton, supported by like to here all about what you or your section location or while on holiday, if only to brag about part of this publication may be reproduced in | 10 over 100 personnel, turning out at the old Post have been up to, so we can share your news where you’ve just been! See page 38 for details. part or whole without the written permission of Eco Sounder 14 the Editor or the Publishers. Photographs are Office on Cornwall Road to say a fond farewell. with the whole RAF Wyton community… We’ll Enjoy reading this edition of Eagleye. Crown Copyright, all rights reserved, unless | 13 While Campbell was being towed off the Station be hearing from you all soon then! Deadline for the Nov/Dec edition: WRAFS on Tour 15 credited to an individual photographer. Eagleye on a makeshift chariot, or rather a chair atop Don’t forget you can also contribute to your 6 Nov 2014 is published by permission of the Commanding WWI Commemorations| 1518 Officer RAF Wyton HQ. CO RAF Wyton HQ and Station personnel turned out to wish Campbell and Loraine Wiseman a fond farewell. 15 Helping Danny to Hear1522 Eagleye Magazine Is | 100% Recyclable The RAF Way Round 25 | 16 Pathfinders 27 18 | News from 57(R) Sqn 28 2124 Sports Roundup| 30 27 28 Charity Car Wash| 32 Lance 28 Energy Really Does Matter 32 How many | idden in Youth Club 34 Fallingfind leaves h can you | he magazine? RAF Wyton Community Support 36 t at the bottom Answer age 36. | of p 32 Leisure Corner 38

4 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 5 has achieved Full Operating Capability through a combination of great vision and sheer hard work.” “The premier facilities that JFIG now operates from are admired and valued by a number of national agencies and partners. Our thanks must go out to all which will allow you to be better informed. Those Engineer Regiment from Brampton, Feltham and within JFIG and at Wyton who have made this work.” who come to work here in the future will be very Hermitage to new purpose-built facilities at Wyton.” After unveiling the new Pathfinder Building sign, grateful for all your efforts.” “Within the new Pathfinder Building at Wyton, HRH The Duke of Gloucester said: “It gives me great Brig Nick Davies, Comd JFIG, has overseen the the Joint Intelligence Operations Centre coordinates pleasure to join you in your day of celebration to mark restructuring of JFIG over the past three years. Writing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance for the achievement of Full Operating Capability.” ahead of the ceremony, he said: “17 September Defence, while the Defence Intelligence Fusion Centre “It provides you with an opportunity to look back to 2014 marks the completion of the PRIDE (Wyton) brings together geospatial intelligence for the nation where you came from; the early days of photographic Programme, the restructuring of Joint Forces and intelligence fusion for Defence.” reconnaissance and Defence Intelligence, and Intelligence Group and our achievement of Full “Wyton is developing as a geospatial and its journey through events in WWI and WWII to its operating Capability.” intelligence hub, collocating elements of Defence development today.” “The PRIDE (Wyton) Programme was a £308m Intelligence, Service intelligence organisations, “We live in an uncertain world and it must give project to relocate JFIG Command elements, agencies and allies.” you great reassurance to see this new facility, one geospatial intelligence, human intelligence and 42 “Although we have made significant progress already, none of our achievements would have been Joint Forces Intelligence Group Achieves possible without the commitment, long hours and hard work of all our personnel. We have grown closer to the rest of Defence Intelligence, the single Services and our ‘5-Eyes’ partners. We have also enjoyed excellent support from industry.” “However, I would characterise Full Operating Full Operating Capability as the ‘end of the beginning’ of JFIG’s development. Over the coming years we will continue to evolve and move forward. We must be ambitious, not at the expense of Capability other organisations but to drive continuous improvement, constantly pushing the boundaries On 17th September 2014 HRH The Duke of of what we can achieve as a key part of Defence.” Gloucester formally declared that JFIG had achieved Full Operating Capability (FOC).

RH The Duke of Gloucester was guest In his introduction to the ceremony, CDI, Vice of honour at a ceremony at RAF Wyton Adm Alan Richards underlined the importance of to mark JFIG’s achievement of FOC, the JFIG and the Pathfinder Facility to Defence, both H Group having completed its programme nationally and internationally. His Royal Highness of restructuring. The ceremony also marked the was then invited to unveil the new Pathfinder Building completion of the PRIDE (Wyton) programme. sign, complete with an engraving acknowledging The ceremony was held in front of Pathfinder HRH The Duke of Gloucester’s declaration of FOC. Building, headquarters to JFIG and home to DIFC. In his address to HRH The Duke of Gloucester A parade by Wyton-based JFIG personnel was and those attending the ceremony, Vice Adm supported by the Wyton Area Voluntary Band. His Richards said: “Having embarked on a particularly Royal Highness inspected the parade. special, challenging and exciting project, JFIG

6 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 7 Joint Forces Intelligence Group Achieves Full Operating Capability JFIG Honours & Awards Ceremony

he visit of HRH The Duke of Gloucester concluded with an Honours and Awards ceremony. His Royal Highness was T delighted to make the presentations to the seven Servicemen and women from JFIG; honours which included two Royal Warrants, a Meritorious Service Medal, a Long Service and Good Conduct Medal, an Accumulated Brigadier’s Campaign Service Medal 2011 and two Afghanistan Operational Service Medals. Challenge

To celebrate JFIG achieving Challenge 2 - Tug-o-war FOC, a number of events 1st 42 Eng Regt (Geo): 9 pts, 2nd Northolt: 6 pts, 3rd DIFC: 3 pts, 4th HQ: 0 pts were organised for after (Win: 3 pts, Lose: 0 pts) the ceremony, including (Best of 3 wars – Round Robin) a sports afternoon and a party in the Sin Bin. Challenge 3 - Beaverfit Throw-down 1st 42 Engr Regt (Geo), 2nd DIFC, 3rd Northolt, 4th HQ he focal point of the sports afternoon was (Each person in turn does 10 x Pull ups, 10 x Tricep the Brigadier’s Challenge, which involved a dips, 10 x Toes to bar, 10 x Box jumps, 10 x 40kg Land Rover Pull, Tug-of-war and Beaverfit Deadlifts, 10 x 16kg Kettlebell swings and Team Throw-down. Four teams participated T tyre flips over 60m course – Repeated twice) and everyone who took part seemed to enjoy themselves, even if their smiles were somewhat strained at times with the sheer effort needed just to JFIG Capability compete. In short, there had to be a winner, 42 Engr Demonstration Regt (Geo) sweeping all-comers aside. Challenge 1 - Land Rover Pull (timed) ollowing the FOC ceremony, HRH The 1st DIFC: 1:35.70, 2nd 42 Engr Regt (Geo): 1:44.14, Duke of Gloucester, along with other 3rd Northolt: 1:46.88, 4th HQ: 2:06.64 invited guests, visited the Pathfinder (6 Gerry Cans shuttled into the back of a Land Rover F Facility where they were briefed by a / 6 people push and pull the Land Rover 70m) number of units. His Royal Highness then viewed a static display which provided a visual overview of some of the capabilities of JFIG elements. Displays were organised by DGC, No 1 AIDU, JSSO and 42 Engr Regt (Geo).

8 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 9 News from….ROY LINES

A Dirty Weekend! 4 hours and 21 minutes…. “Last mile” said the marshal. We had just that’s a long time to be crossed one of the river obstacles when we heard this. It was all the motivation we needed to really running regardless of the press on, overtaking as many people in front of environment. However, us as possible while thinking we were nearly at running for that amount the end. A handful of water submersions, hay of time while navigating bale climbs and the final obstacle, a three tier through, round, over and wall climb were all that stood between us and the finish line. Calling on the remaining reserves RSM out a few uniform faults of those watching which under 200 obstacles is utter of our strength and stamina we finally cleared gave rise to shouts from the crowd of “Can’t you madness. But, on Saturday these final hurdles and finished. take his batteries out!” 10th May, that was what I So, 4 hours and 21 minutes after setting off, With health and safety considerations taken and fellow Royal Engineer Spr Page and I crossed the line. After sticking Bids Farewell into account (not necessarily adhered to, just together for the entire 20 miles and 200 obstacles taken into account!) a suitably chosen trolley with Spr Page endured. Friends and colleagues got to work. So much so, that the RSM later said: “I our finishing times were exactly the same down the box on top began its journey to Wyton Officers was particularly delighted with the ‘Camming Up’ to the second. The pair of us even overtook gathered at the WO and phase. It took me 45 minutes to wash it off completely Mess causing much interest from passing vehicles. ewind two weeks and Lt Euan Irvine, various Wave 1 competitors who had a 15 minute SNCOs Mess to bid so thick was its application. To those responsible I Cries of “He...lp!” emanated from inside the box 14 Sqn’s 2 Tp Comd, was asking for head start. We later found out that the average have two things to say…..’I will be back’ and ‘revenge when approaching speed bumps. WO1 Robinson volunteers to take part in a 20 mile farewell to their Regimental time for the event was 6 minutes shy of 6 hours is a dish best served cold!’” was finally delivered to the Mess and in true officer assault course held at Burghley and Sergeant Major (RSM) who R and out of more than 3800 finishers we finished Decommissioned gun at the ready and wondering fashion those waiting to receive him were waiting at known as the Rat Race Dirty Weekend. The has recently taken up a what was to come, the RSM was told it was time to get the wrong door at the wrong time! organisers, Rat Race, host a number of these 343rd and 344th. Lt Irvine, in Wave 1, managed Commission in the Army. back in his box. With asides from the crowd of, “That’ll WO2 Haslope presented the box to Lt Col Blunt obstacle races throughout the year but Dirty an impressive 3 hours 57 minutes and was one be a first!” he was taken outside to be reunited with with all the requisite paperwork ready to be signed Weekend is a grouping of all those races into one of only a handful of individuals who completed a fter a long career in the Royal Engineers his ‘packaging’. Sensing WO1 Robinson would one off. ‘Action man’ continued to shout out commands gruelling event. Separated into a number of zones record long 132 metre monkey bar section. which began in 1995 (preceded by 4 day be destined for greater things the QM dept had causing the CO to echo earlier comments made ranging from urban, rural and through to water So, all in all we came away with a great sense years in the TA), one which has seen him retained the box intact when he joined up - and it was about removing the batteries. To everyone’s relief zones among others the run is a test of numerous of achievement. Neither of us had ever run for 20 ‘Action Man’ went into stealth mode only springing to serve on operations around the world, ready for him to be parcelled up and despatched on physical disciplines. Both I and Spr Page miles before this and to do it for the first time while A his way, to become an officer. life when informed he had been officially handed over. WO1 William Robinson’s friends and colleagues volunteered and had just two weeks of preparation overcoming various obstacles is really good going. couldn’t resist the opportunity to see him off in style. During this process and never forgetting his True to his name he then kicked his way out of the box, time before the event. Would I do it again? Yes but, hopefully with a bit Accordingly they invited him for a drink in the Mess to regimental role the RSM took the opportunity to point ready for anything and taking everyone by surprise. Before we knew it, the pair of us were more than 2 weeks notice! say their goodbyes! standing at the start line waiting for the signal by Spr Simpson WO1 Robinson commented: “It was with a sense The final and more serious word of course has moulding and influencing in a positive way are key to to go for the second wave. Lt Irvine had already of trepidation that I approached the Mess at 11.45hrs. I to go to WO1 Robinson: “It is apparently 1 in every success and as the 2ic of a Trg Sqn I will still have set off 15 minutes earlier with Wave 1. Minutes know the WO and SNCO cohort in the Regt far too well 1000 soldiers that join the Army that will become a that interaction and that ability to get soldiers off on later we were making better than expected and how ‘inventive’ they can be” and his suspicions RSM and it has been an enormous privilege to be the the right foot as they embark upon their career. The progress through the obstacles and especially grew when asked to turn out his pockets on entering RSM of 42 Engr Regt (Geo) at this momentous time; Army is an exciting and a challenging organisation the building. The smiles and friendly greetings were both for the Regt and for the wider Army and Defence to belong to and one that has given me enormous in the running sections in between. soon followed by 14 Sqn’s SSM WO2 Andy Haslope as restructuring takes effect. I was born into the Army opportunity and challenge, from travel to Peru, the We were in quite high spirits for the most explaining to those assembled that it was essential and it is a way of life rather than a job or career, and USA and Australia to War Fighting Operations in part, enjoying the obstacles on offer and they return Mr Robinson in the original packaging in for me the opportunity to continue to serve and see Iraq and Afghanistan. It is unmatched in what it has reeling in those ahead of us on the running. which he had arrived when first enlisting as a soldier. the Army through the huge change that it is currently to offer and there is no greater prize or reward than I’d be lying if I said neither of us hit the With the Regt’s CO, Lt Col Richard Blunt waiting undertaking is another huge honour. I go to a Training getting it ‘right’ with soldiers. A new and different wall at some point but, especially after seeing to receive him at the Officers Mess, time was of the Regiment on Commissioning and for me having life awaits me upon commissioning but one which the ‘Mile 16’ marker just before the final water essence and there was only five minutes to get him a positive impact on the early training of the next will continue to offer variety and challenge and station we both had to dig deep. We crammed ready. generation of soldier is crucial to the survival of all the one which keeps me in touch with our greatest down handfuls of jelly beans and flapjack and Jacket off, camouflage jerkin on and bandana things that make the British Army what it is. Shaping, commodity, our people”. headed off for the final stretch. around his head (“This is cool!”), a camouflage expert

10 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 11 Official Cambridgeshire CAMBRIDGE supplier of Kymco

1 Bramley Road, St. Ives, ARMY & NAVY Cambs. PE27 3WS 01480 - 463637 www.veritys.co.uk SUPPLIES STORE

Tues - Fri 8.30am to 5.30pm Used and new Saturdays 9am to 4pm military clothing & equipment 39a St. Andrews Street Tel: 01223 576564 www.squaddie-direct.co.uk The Last Post Campbell Wiseman, our 29 years. On behalf of the Station, I would like to wish Campbell and his wife Loraine a fond farewell very own postmaster and happy retirement. You will be missed.” has retired after 29 years Mrs Ann Fletcher who is now retired and lives service, handing over the in St Ives was in the crowd who turned up to say their goodbyes to Campbell. She said: “I worked Post Office’s last post on at RAF Wyton between 1980 and 2001, employed 20th August 2014. mainly in the NAAFI shop. In those days we had to pay in our takings at the post office and I used and playing his beloved bowls, but not before he icking up Campbell’s last post, postman to look forward to my daily visit to see Campbell. and Loraine take a well deserved holiday. Garry Oakley from Huntingdon said: Campbell is the most cheerful and delightful man Of his time at Wyton, Campbell said: “It’s the “I have been collecting the post from anyone could want to know. Following my trips to people I will miss the most. Some people have Campbell for the past three years. His the post office I would always leave laughing and served multiple tours of duty at Wyton while I’ve P with a smile on my face, Campbell often teasing been here, and it’s always nice to bump into them efficiency, coupled with his witty comments and general cheerfulness have made working with me that my Swiss Bank account was looking again. Indeed, there is a Squadron Leader who him a pleasure.” healthy!” has just been posted in, who I have known since After having handed over the last post and Closing the door to the Cornwall Road post she was five, her mother still a regular customer. formerly closing the post office, Campbell was office for the very last time, Campbell has also It really must be time to go!” met by Wg Cdr Ola Fashade, CO RAF Wyton HQ overseen the smooth and over 100 well wishers from the Station, all handover of the Station’s eager to give him a fitting send off. After a speech postal service to the A final word from Campbell.... from the CO and a presentation of gifts, Campbell MACE shop, which will was ceremoniously driven off the Station on a now provide Station makeshift chariot - on a chair atop a tractor towed personnel with post trailer, courtesty of the SWO’s Gang! office facilities. In his speech, Wg Cdr Fashade said: “In 1985, Having closed the when Campbell arrived at Wyton, Sister Sledge Station’s post office were Number One in the charts with Frankie; the the day after his 70th first mobile phone call was about to be made; Birthday, Campbell, and Wayne Rooney and Christiano Ronaldo who lives in Hartford, weren’t even born! A great deal has happened acknowledged that since then, including the coming and going of he was ready to retire. 17 Station Commanders and other personnel However, he was keen too numerous to mention. It is to Campbell’s to point out that he has enormous credit that he has provided the Station plenty to occupy his time, with an outstanding postal service over the past including gardening, DIY

12 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 13 Eco Sounder On The ENVIRONMENTAL • HEALTH&SAFETY • ENERGY W rAFS

roof cavities. Constructing a nest from chewed March For Charity Pesky Wasps wood the queen builds a cylindrical strut known On Saturday 23rd August a National Arboretum where we will lay a floral tribute, Picture the scene, it’s a hot summers day (we do as a petiole, then some hexagonal cells and, and a very fitting one at that.” get them now and then), the picnic table is filled with when she has 20-30 cells, lays an egg in each group of eight former Women’s Shortly before departing RAF Wyton, Natasha an abundance of food and the sugary drinks are which eventually emerge as workers, small sterile Royal Air Force (WRAF) Marshall and Sarah Richards, both ex serving WRAFs, who also participated in the 30-mile bike ride between flowing. Then we hear it, that instantly recognisable females who help to continue building the nest personnel undertook a nine- handed over the baton (a knitted WRAF doll) to Judith, Brampton and Henlow on leg 52, the next day. Thank Revolutionary ‘Trucker’ buzzing sound which usually heralds the arrival of and feed the colony. Insect prey is their main mile charity walk between RAF having completed a grueling 43-mile bike ride between you girls - you were fantastic.” what many call the yellow peril! I’m talking of course source of protein (which includes many garden Wyton and the former RAF Mildenhall and Wyton, most of it against a strong head Sally Rees, former Dental Centre Practice I came across this item whilst surfing the net. about wasps. Often striking fear into some, and pests) and sugars from flowers, so interestingly wind. On hand to lend her support to Natasha, Sarah Manager at RAF Wyton, and now a theatre nurse at Looking like something out of ‘Thunderbirds generating annoyance in others the wasp has the this makes them, like the bee, an important part Brampton site. and the team due to depart for Brampton was Sqn Hinchingbrooke hospital, retired from the RAF in 2011. Ldr Jacqui Skoyles, OC Personnel and Finance. After are go’, at first I wondered if it was a joke but it is uncanny knack of appearing from nowhere the of the pollination chain. However, it’s the pest we Recovering from the bike ride, she said: “Our motto is ight former WRAFs, seven now retired spending some time talking to everyone she said: reported widely including in the respected Science minute you sit down to eat outside. You may not humans don’t want to see especially when they ‘Once a WRAF, always a WRAF’ and it goes without and living in the Cambridgeshire area and “Well done to everyone who participated in the walk on and Technology magazine. If it becomes a reality believe it but the wasp does not like to sting people buzz around us whilst we are eating, which then saying we all picked up where we left off. We had a another, a serving Flt Lt from RAF Wyton, Saturday. It was a great effort, and for a great cause.” fabulous weekend and it was brilliant to meet up, it will undoubtedly change the way we transport and only does it as a last resort either because it is forces us to resort to a rolled up newspaper or participated in leg 51 of the 97-leg ‘WRAFs The team of eight women navigated their way from goods around the globe forever. defending a nest or, is desperately trying to secure magazine as we swat aimlessly to try and drive E share old stories and make new acquaintances. We on Tour’ event, a charity relay taking in past and Wyton to Brampton via Houghton, Godmanchester had a fantastic response from everyone we met while A company called 4x4 Aviation Ltd, based at food for its colony. To help you understand a little them away. Incidentally the wasp tends to be at its present RAF Stations throughout the United Kingdom. and Huntingdon, stopping off at a number of pubs to out and about and we’ve been overwhelmed by their London Ashford Airport in Lydd have plans to deliver more about this fascinating creature please read on. most annoying in late summer when the colony The relay started on 28th June 2014 in Stranraer, avoid the odd summer shower (well that’s their story!) generosity and good wishes. I managed to raise £315 an energy efficient and cost effective infrastructure has reached its maximum size (a Common wasp Scotland and is due to finish on 24th October at the and to rattle some collection boxes in aid of their through the very lovely people I work with and I know solution that will make the transportation of goods nest may contain up to 10,000 individuals) and National Arboretum, near Lichfield in Staffordshire. chosen charities. One of the team, Flt Lt Anita Prior, the rest of the girls have also raised a lot of money for and vital supplies around the globe, particularly to natural food supply is in decline. Raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support and OC P1, and an integral member of the Station’s RAFA these great causes. As far as the bike ride went, I’m land locked and developing nations, easier, faster It’s a short life for a wasp though as by RAFA, the group of over 1,000 serving and ex serving committee, was delighted with the reception given to not convinced that the parts of my body that ache and and more economical. How will it do this? By use October it’s the end of the nesting cycle for WRAFs who have signed up for the charity relay are the team. She said: “Individually, we’ve all obtained hurt are actually supposed to, but I’m sure the ‘special scheduled to complete over 3,200 miles between sponsorship through family, friends and colleagues. of an innovative vertical take-off and landing aircraft Common wasp German wasp the Common and German variety, when new cream’ I got from Boots saved me from far worse! – them. However, through the generosity of those we ‘bumped called the VV-Plane. Thorsten U. Reinhardt, the queens and males are produced and mate. The WRAFs are survivors!” Judith Dibsdale, a former WRAF Aircraft Airframes into’ on our walk, we’ve managed to add another £250 company’s Founder says, “Local and national Altogether there are 9 types of social wasp newly fertilised queens then fatten up on nectar AVM Elaine West, the first woman to have been Technician who served on 100 Sqn at RAF Wyton to the overall total raised.” economies, as well as developing countries, in the UK, 2 of which often nest in garages and and eventually find a place to hibernate until promoted to AVM within the RAF and the most in the late 80’s, organised the Wyton to Brampton Judith Dibsdale added: “I would like to say a big are today struggling to meet the ever-increasing roof cavities, these are Common wasp (Vespula the following spring. Not so lucky for the colony senior ranking female officer in the British Armed leg. She said: “2014 is an important year in terms thank you to Natasha Marshall and Sarah Richards demands for transport infrastructure. A viable vulgaris) and German wasp (Vespula germanica). which dies off and the original nest is abandoned. Forces, was also keen to add her support to all of anniversaries for women in the Royal Air Force. It who undertook the bike ride between Mildenhall and solution will generate huge economic and social In springtime a large, fertilised queen emerges Nature being nature it all begins once more with those participating in the ‘WRAFs on Tour’ charity is 75 years since the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force Wyton on leg 50 and to Sally Rees, Sandra Finlay, benefits for these countries.” from hibernation and looks for a suitable nesting the appearance of the fertilised queens who then relay. Before the Wyton to Brampton leg, AVM (WAAF) was formed; 65 years since the name Nicki Barlow, Donna Gill, Anita Prior, Helen King and The VV-Plane is set to launch on 20th September site, two favourites being the inside of a shed or start the whole cycle of life again. West, a former member of the WRAF who has changed to WRAF and 20 years since the ‘W’ officially Jenny-Rebecca Gregory, who joined me on our walk served at both RAF Brampton and RAF Wyton, 14 and is based on a hybrid system that draws its disappeared when the WRAF was merged with the between Wyton and Brampton on leg said: “I wish Judith and her team every success energy from electric turbines powered by an energy RAF. It is also 100 years since the start of WWI; an 51. An extra special mention must on their leg of the relay. They are undertaking this storage system and a highly efficient combustion event for some excellent causes and I important anniversary for all members of the armed go out to Sally engine acting as the aircraft’s on-board generator. very much hope to participate in one forces. The ‘WRAFs on Tour’ relay will finish up at the and Sandra The aircraft is controlled by an intuitive software Space - of the relay legs myself.” system that allows the transition from vertical to horizontal flight without the need for heavy and Is It Endless? expensive mechanical tilting mechanisms. Its electric-gas hybrid design means travel distance of Even if you are not into Astronomy or hate up to 3,300km at an average speed of 300km/h can stargazing, read the comment on the right and be achieved at a lower cost per ton-km compared tell me you are not amazed at the endlessness to delivery by truck, and will go a long way to of space. relieving the pressure on countries currently facing the burden of infrastructure expenditure (US$50 trillion through to 2030). migratory journey from Africa and spotting I did ask the company if the VV requires Rare Garden Visitor tempting bird food on offer thought it was too aircrew to fly it or was it controlled like a UAV. They No sooner had I written in the last Eco good to miss. Sadly the bird only stayed for about replied that in the short term probably manned but Sounder about the decline in certain bird species, 15 minutes but, it did give me the opportunity to eventually quote the vision would be for the VV- including the Turtle Dove, when lo and behold one grab my camera Plane to be unmanned and operating as a Network decided to visit my garden. With the Turtle Dove and capture a that will allow intelligent formation flight, which will sadly in decline sightings are rare these days so, photo, albeit enhance flight distances by 60% unquote. I intend I was absolutely thrilled that this colourful bird through the to keep eye on this project, if it is a success then it chose my garden to land in. I would like to think it kitchen window, could be the future for transportation of goods. had probably only recently completed its annual before it flew off.

14 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 15 The Pike and Eel Hotel

When you step through a doorway dated www.rivertearooms.co.uk 01480 464921 1608 you know that you are entering a haven of traditional hospitality. • Cream Teas & Afternoon Teas In the summer you can enjoy a drink or meal in our large private waterside • Home made cakes & scones gardens and in the winter you will usually find a roaring fire in the • Speciality teas & coffees impressive original inglenook fireplace • Home made soup & lunches Also available 12 en-suite rooms • Outside Catering t: 01480 463336 f: 01480 465467 e: [email protected] • Children’s Birthday parties, Overcote Lane, Needingworth, Cambs PE27 4TW Christenings & Anniversaries OPEN EVERY DAY THE FARMLAND MUSEUM & DENNY ABBEY A great destination to bring your group!

Contact the museum for details on group visits: Email: [email protected] 1 & 2 Manor Mews, Bridge Street, Tel: 01223 860988 or visit: www.farmlandmuseum.org.uk Located on the A10 just outside Cambridge. St. Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 5UW The Raptor THE THREE JOLLY BUTCHERS Foundation PUBLIC HOUSE AND RESTAURANT We are a team providing a rescue service, 24 hour care and rehabilitation facilities for injured raptors. HOUGHTON & WYTON VILLAGE We are open from 10am - 5pm (4pm from end October) On site there is: Mad About Owls Gift Shop, Silent Wings FOUR REAL ALES Tearoom, Animal Experience GERMAN PILSNER 3 daily demonstrations flying the birds, where public can get involved. TRADITIONAL COUNTRY PUB Twilight Flying 1st November MENU WITH SPECIALS £12 per head, including meal, arrive before 7pm SHORT ON TIME? We offer a unique and ‘Afternoon Tea’ has been a well FAX A PRE-ORDER memorable experience to all loved tradition since the early who visit us. You will find 19th century. Here at Betty LARGE BEER GARDEN AWAY FROM THE ROAD us comfortably nestled in the Bumbles all our items on our middle of the historic market HEATED PATIO AREA menu are freshly made to order. town of St Neots. POOL TABLE GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE FOR THE FOLLOWING: Overlooking Market Square and We have a beautiful function Meet the Birds • Hawk Walk • Falconry Experience Day • Hunting Day within walking distance to all room and art deco bar BBQ’S, BUFFETS & BEER CALLS CATERED FOR • Five Day Course • Twilight Flying • Photographic Days local amenities, interesting shops on the first floor, which is & beautiful riverside walks. available for private parties. MOORINGS (FREE FOR CUSTOMERS) To find out about our upcoming events, please visit our website FREE STAY CHILD www.raptorfoundation.org.uk WITH Betty Bumbles www.thejollybutchers.co.uk WITH US: PAYING PHONE: 01487 741140 3* GUEST Vintage Tea Rooms TEL: 01480 463228 ADULT ACCOMMODATION 30 Market Square, St Neots, Cambridgeshire, PE19 2AF TEL: 01480 463228 EMAIL: info @raptorfoundation.org.uk FAX: 01480 463726 Telephone: 01480 211496 FAX: 01480 463726 The Heath, St. Ives Road, Woodhurst, Cambridgeshire, PE28 3BT Email: [email protected]

16 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 17 Wyton remembers – Laying a WWI commemorations wreath at the Station personnel have marked the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War 1 and the 70th anniversary of Menin Gate D-Day in differing ways at home and across the Channel. lthough on a private visit with her husband to the WWI battlefields Linda Donald from SHQ was honoured to be able to lay a A wreath during the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate in Ypres on behalf of the Station.

Military Wives Exercise Choir As the Wyton and Brampton choir was preparing to celebrate its first ‘birthday’ one of its members, Sam Edgell, was selected to be one of the Roy’s Landing 100 strong ‘Proms Military Wives Choir’ at a special prom Ten soldiers and officers Day 1: Wyton – Chatham At a distance of 104 the South Downs into Folkestone. Although the at the Royal Albert Hall. from 14 Geo Sqn RE miles, the first day was the longest for the riders. hills tried to break the spirit of the group; dogged supported by a 4 man An early start and a hearty breakfast provided determination dragged us through. Upon he War Horse Prom was inspired the team with enough fuel to cope with the chaos arrival, the team were welcomed with tea and by the National Theatre’s play, War support crew embarked of rush hour around St Ives and the steep terrain cakes made by Mrs Fran Noel, mother of WO1 Horse, based on Michael Morpurgo’s on an ambitious eight between Royston and Saffron Walden and then Noel. With the help of friends, she had raised novel, and marked the eve of the day Battlefield Study on through the Essex countryside to Tilbury over £150 in aid of BLESMA, a contribution to T centenary of the outbreak of WW1.The sell-out cycling over 500 miles docks where a ferry took us across the Thames the teams’ 1000 mile relay, held on 26th May. file to block the wind for the other people behind Menin Gate. This proved to be a solemn affair, concert directed by Gareth Malone was made from their new home here to Gravesend for the final leg of the day. After The theme for the evening’s presentation was them and take turns being the one in front, punctuated with the local fire brigade playing the up of singers from 42 different choirs in the at Wyton to the beaches 11 hours in and out of the saddle, the gates of coastal defences and the role of the Navy. thus reducing drag and the amount of energy Last Post and the attendance of WW2 veterans. Military Wives Choirs Foundation network. Brompton Barracks were reached and the study expended) and it proved to be successful, with Day 4: Ypres – Cambrai After our first night of the D Day Landings in Sam said: “I was delighted to perform for Day 1 commenced. Sgt Paronuzzi and LCpl Day 3: Calais – Ypres After 2 days riding in the the groups averaging speeds in excess of 20 under canvas we awoke to sunshine and a lovely in the Proms Military Wives Choir and to Normandy via Southern Taylor briefed on the history of Chatham and the UK, Day 3 saw the team on the continent for the miles per hour. This ensured an early arrival into cooked breakfast, courtesy of Sgt Paronuzzi represent Wyton and Brampton MWC. It England, Belgium and role it has played in both World Wars. first time. After the previous days unforgiving hills Tyne Cot Cemetery (the largest Commonwealth and his team of campsite caterers. The first is an honour to be part of this very special France. Some of their the relatively flat ground was a welcome sight war grave in Europe), where SSgt Donoghue destination of the day was Messines Ridge. SSgt event. It was lovely that the concert also record of the expedition is Day 2: Chatham – Folkestone In stark contrast to tired legs, and allowed the group to practice and Spr Seymour gave a detailed lecture on Fassam briefed the ground, explaining that with remembered the role that women and reproduced below. from Day 1, Day 2 was a mere 54 miles along speed and team tactics. We were introduced the battle of Passchendaele. That evening, the today’s tactics and equipment this area of ground music played during the First World War.” the undulating A2 and then a climb up and over to drafting (a trick whereby cyclists go in single group attended the daily memorial service at the would be less important; however in 1917 the

18 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 19 countryside enabled the team to maintain Noel and SSgt Fassam donned tight T Shirts speed and visualise the tank battle for Cambrai and led the team onto Pegasus Bridge where in late 1917. This day saw the first spots of what many pictures of the two were taken. As the was almost 24hrs of rain. As the rain began to sun was setting, the group collapsed back to fall, LCpl Williams and Spr Brand introduced the the final campsite on the Normandy coast. To battle of the Somme with facts of the first day’s celebrate the achievements of the week, a BBQ offensives on 1st July 1916. Come the end of the was laid on by Sgt Paronuzzi and his team but battle on 18th November 1916, approximately the exercise hadn’t finished yet. 1,000,000 soldiers had lost their lives. To add to the misery of the rain LCpl Williams’ Day 8: Normandy Beaches Waking early the bike suffered a major mechanical problem 14 members of the Exercise walked from the camp which made it unridable. As we couldn’t fix the site to the beach, arriving just as the first vessels problem at the roadside, the support crew had would have appeared on the horizon 70 years to take it in to a local shop. Fortunately with a previously. The final brief on Operation NEPTUNE, new hub and 50 Euros later the bike was fixed the beach landing element of Operation and ready to ride again the next day. OVERLORD, was presented by SSgt Wiggins. Our hroughout the day families, sections location commanded views of SWORD and JUNO or individuals had the opportunity Day 6: Beauvais – Conches en Ouche The beachfronts and it was easy to imagine the fleet of to reflect on the poems, prayers noise of torrential rain on the roof of the tent was 5000 ships and landing craft off the coast at dawn, T and pictures out on display and ridge was vital to the Allied advance. So much so enough for SSgt Wiggins and WO1 Noel to make 70 years ago. The exercise finished with a visit to light a candle in memory of the dead. At that 9 divisions and 3 reserve divisions, (a total of a command decision. The weather was bad Merville Battery; the scene of a daring attack by 2300hrs all the candles were extinguished 216,000 troops) were put into battle on 7th – 14th enough to make the roads unsafe for riding. For the 9th Parachute Battalion. Of the 750 personnel commemorating the exact time war was June 1917. Upon the ridge is a cemetery where the majority of the riders it came as a welcome in the battalion who jumped, only 150 arrived at the declared in 1914. Earlier in the day all three Services the fallen soldiers of the New Zealand and British rest. A stop off for dinner at a Crepe House in a RV for the assault. The Station paused... on Station were represented by Wg Cdr forces lay, poignant reminder of the aftermath quiet French town was a welcome break to the Exercise ROY’S LANDING enhanced Fashade, Lt Col Vicky Roberts and Lt Cdr of more than 7 days of fighting. That evening, a drivers too. As luck would have it as we arrived at the knowledge of all that took part on it and Here at Wyton approximately 75 people attended a service Andrew Ware, as well as members of 57(R) small contingent accompanied Sgt Paronuzzi to our next campsite, the sun came out. encouraged participants to learn more about of prayers and reflection led by Padre Steve Radley in the Sqn at Huntingdon Town Council’s public Wallencourt Cemetery. The visit was emotional their own family history. The courage and bravery Station chapel, St George’s, at lunchtime on 4th August. commemorations in Market Square. as Sgt Paronuzzi was, for the first time, able to Day 7: Conches en Ouche – Caen With very of the men who fought and died in both wars stand at the grave and pay his respects to his few issues, the day ran smoothly and we arrived should always be remembered. Great Uncle, 27414 Pte P Lang, Royal Scots. in good time to witness the airborne drop onto the DZ at Ranville, close to Pegasus Bridge. Day 5: Cambrai – Beauvais By Day 5 the WO1 Noel delivered a highly detailed brief cyclists had become proficient at drafting to on Operation DEADSTICK and the airborne the disappointment of the support crew who elements involved. Once the brief had finished, at times were struggling to keep up! The rolling the teams’ resident Airborne Sappers, WO1 Eagle-eyed Scarecrows on Stag

In nearby ‘RAF’ Sawtry utside one house where a relative the 100th anniversary of had fallen on the Western Front, the First World War was they created a sandbagged O machinegun emplacement with for some the focus for the two scarecrow figures. Both scarecrows annual Scarecrow week. were dressed in combat clothing with camouflage makeup, one as the machine gunner with a large And finally... calibre ‘wine cork’ belt of bullets and s Eagleye goes to press, Station the other his spotter personnel are looking forward to with a pair of ‘coke joining Huntingdon Town Council’s can’ binoculars. A WWI commemorative weekend at the Royal British Legion Riverside Meadows. poppies were used They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: to create a 1914 Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. plaque and each At the going down of the sun and in the morning, scarecrow also We will remember them. wore poppies.

20 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 21 After the charity event had clocked up its Danny Pickard, a two year old boy who 1,000th mile, and naturally after the celebratory has been profoundly deaf from birth, might pizza for all, Flt Lt Maxwell-Whale said: “What a phenomenal effort. I’m really thrilled that we one day hear for the first time, thanks to the were able to have most of our Sqn sections selfless actions of people like Flt Lt Rich represented, and I would like to thank the bosses of those travelling from other Stations Maxwell-Whale and his RAF Police colleagues. for enabling their participation. I would also like to personally thank Cpl Michelle Rose for etween them, they recently cycled at RAF Wyton’s Station Gym to take part in the helping me to coordinate this event. As for me, 1,000 miles in an effort to raise some charity indoor bike ride he had organised. I’ve no doubt my knees will be raging for days. much needed funding towards a very Starting at 0700 hrs, the original plan had However, it is a small price to pay for helping B special cause. been to cover the 608-mile distance between Danny, Paul and Helen.” Danny, whose father Paul Pickard is a Lands End and John-O-Groats, each participant Cpl Michelle Rose, who is shortly to leave the retired member of the RAF Regiment, suffers putting in a number of one hour stints over a 12- RAF, said: “Its days like these that I’ll miss when from CHARGE, a rare condition that can affect hour period. However, an hour into the event, I leave. Although it was for a great cause, these different parts of the body. With a genetic it became obvious that the cyclists, with six events are also great for team morale. That pattern of birth defects, CHARGE occurs in bikes being used continuously, were going to said, I’ll not miss the ‘numb bum’ I’ve got at the about one in every nine to ten thousand births smash their original target and so a new 1,000- moment!” worldwide, commonly causing problems with mile goal was set. Flt Lt Maxwell-Whale said: Before the start of the event, Flt Lt Maxwell- the ears, eyes, heart, nasal passages, genitals “I was really pleased with the great turnout we Whale was able to update the cyclists on and growth in general. A complex syndrome, had for the event. With Wyton, Henlow, Marham Danny’s situation. He informed them that the it involves extensive medical and physical (Station and HQ 6 Sqn), Cosford, Honington hospital in Italy had agreed to perform the Charity Cycle Ride difficulties, which vary from child to child. and High Wycombe all represented, it was a operation on Danny earlier than first expected, In cases such as Danny’s, where a person fantastic Sqn effort.” its administrators agreeing to a payment plan doesn’t have any auditory nerves at all, it is Among the Security Flt personnel from that allowed the family to have the operation possible for an auditory brain stem implant Wyton taking part were several members from carried out in July. He said: “Danny had his operation to be performed. However, it is an the MPGS, including Sgt Kenny Thomson, operation on 14th July and, having made good Helping Danny to Hear extremely intricate operation and involves an MPGS Shift Commander and Cpl Wayne progress, returned to Italy with his parents on electronic device, acting as a microphone, being Poursain. Kenny and Wayne typified the sheer the 17th August to have the implanted electronic inserted into the brain, where a persons hearing enthusiasm put in, and it soon became blatantly device turned on. Obviously, it is very much a nerves are usually attached. apparent that an ‘element of competition’ waiting game now. Hopefully Danny will be well Unfortunately, the delicate operation has existed between those participating! Indeed, enough to return home soon and, with his third rarely been carried out in the UK and, although personal milestones of 25, 30 and 35 km were birthday less than a week away, the prospect of Danny himself was put on a waiting list shortly quickly eclipsed by a number of personnel, hearing for the first time will be the best birthday Whitehall School after his parents discovered he was profoundly Kenny just pipping Wayne to the title of furthest present ever.” deaf, funding in the UK is not guaranteed. And ridden in an hour, with a distance of a little over After the charity bike ride at Wyton, and of Where small class size makes a big difference so, having established that a well renowned 41 km – over 25 miles ‘in new money’. Kenny, course the well-earned pizza that followed, Flt doctor in Italy had performed the surgery on who has served at both Brampton and Wyton Lt Maxwell-Whale was able to announce that ‘OUTSTANDING over a hundred different patients, Paul and over the last nine years and professes to enjoy the event had raised a little over £600 (before Helen Pickard, from Burwell in Cambridgeshire, his time in the gym keeping fit, said: “Anything Gift Aid). Inspection Report, 2014 decided to try and raise the £65,000 needed for I can do to help I will do. The fact that I was the operation. able to let off a little steam in the process (Nursery & Early Years) Having learnt of the pioneering operation that of taking part made it that much more might help Danny hear for the first time, Paul enjoyable… …and Wayne, unlucky!” and Helen contacted a number of family and Of course, an event like this doesn’t just Leading SATs results 2013/14 close friends, including FS Steve Clayton, RAF happen and Flt Lt Maxwell-Whale was quick Level 4 - 100%, Wyton’s former SNCO I/C Force Protection Flt, to recognize and thank those who had asking them if they might help with fundraising helped to stage it. In addition to the Station Level5 - English 78%, Maths 63% ideas. With Steve passing on Paul and Helen’s kindly allowing the event to take place, details to friends and colleagues of his at Wyton, the Ped Flt went the extra mile by setting Registrations and Admissions it wasn’t long before words turned into action….. up the equipment, Carole Johnson, Hd taken throughout the Year Step forward Flt Lt Rich Maxwell-Whales. of Sports Services eager to participate Having heard of Danny Pickard’s predicament in the charity event herself. ARAMARK www.whitehallschool.com from FS Clayton, Flt Lt Maxwell-Whale decided provided some refreshments which [email protected] to get in contact with other RAF Police sections included some tasty chocolate treats +44 (0) 1487 840966 within 6 Sqn, No 2 Police Wg, in the hope that and Flt Lt Maxwell-Whale’s mum, Anne, he could persuade them to join him in a charity made some biscuits which she and event to help raise funding towards a possible Glynn, his step dad, sold around the Enquiries: Deborah Parker, operation. He needn’t have worried about the Station, adding over £50 towards the Whitehall School, Somersham, uptake; on 19th August, 26 people turned up total raised on the day. Cambridgeshire PE28 3EH Independent Day School

22 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 23 Proud To Host ‘The RAF Way Round’ On Wednesday 3rd edition celebrating RAF Lossiemouth’s 75th To show support for the tour and the RAF September RAF Wyton anniversary and was being carried around the Benevolent Fund, members of the Wyton 39 units which the team were visiting. Squadron Pathfinders Motorcycle Club turned out with their welcomed a team Leader Skoyles said: “I wish the guys the best bikes during a break from work to wish them well. of bikers from RAF of luck with the rest of their tour around the UK. I One member, Sgt Jo Murray, even accompanied Lossiemouth in Scotland am also happy to report that the bottle of whisky them for part of the next leg to RAF Marham. Pete on their fundraising tour of was indeed as yet ‘unopened’.” Brindley, club chairman, said: “They seem to be The team consisting of servicemen Andy well on their way to meeting their fundraising target the UK in aid of the RAF Reed, Dave Thorne, Mark Ratcliffe and Jack and I am glad we have been able to give them a Benevolent Fund. Yardley were hoping to make it ‘unofficially’ warm welcome at Wyton.” the largest ever military ride out in the UK and aking their cue from Ewan McGregor and raise £10,000 for the RAF Benevolent Fund. More details on The RAF Way Round can Charley Boorman’s ‘Long Way Round’ Prior to their brief stop at RAF Wyton one of the be found via Facebook at www.facebook. trip of a lifetime, the team embarked upon motorcycles suffered some damage and the com/Therafwayround or make a donation at Tthe ‘The RAF Way Round’, a 3,000 mile team were extremely grateful when the Station’s www.justgiving.com. motorcycle ride which saw them visit 39 existing workshops quickly stepped and former RAF stations across the UK, including in to rectify the problem. some of Britain’s most historic military installations. CO Wyton HQ, Wg Cdr Ola The seven day long tour finished at the Highland Fashade was also keen to Military Tattoo at Fort George. meet the guys and managed Arriving at Wyton on the third day of their tour, to grab a quick word with the they were welcomed by Sqn Ldr Jacqui Skoyles, team while they were waiting OC Personnel and Finance along with members of for the bike to be repaired. the Station’s Pathfinders Motorcycle Club. Jacqui Departing Wyton Mark was keen to find out how the tour was going and said: “We really appreciate talked to each of the riders about their experiences the warm welcome. We’re on the road so far. She was also delighted to sign all really enjoying our a special certificate proving they had brought with challenge and although them a limited edition bottle of whisky, which was it’s tiring, there is nothing auctioned off after it had completed its journey better than being out on around the UK. a bike alongside your The 21 year old bottle of single malt whisky mates enjoying a new (no 39 of 300) was produced as part of a limited adventure.”

24 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 25 Pathfinders Once again, the weekend in of thanksgiving and commemoration in St George’s August known as Pathfinder Chapel followed by luncheon in Wyton Officers Mess on Sunday 17th August. Weekend, when the Station is Named No 8 Group the Pathfinder Force initially delighted to host veterans of comprised 5 squadrons located on four airfields the elite WWII Pathfinder Force centred on the town of Huntingdon with its HQ at RAF proved to be a huge success. Wyton. In due course it flew Short Stirling, Handley Page Halifaxes, De Havilland Mosquitos, Vickers he Path Finder Force (now commonly Wellingtons and the Avro Lancaster. The Force known as the Pathfinder Force) was formed eventually comprised 19 squadrons based across on 15th August 1942, under the command Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Norfolk. Tof Group Captain Don Bennett. This year, on Pathfinder aircraft were tasked with dropping the Friday, 13 WWII Pathfinders returned to Wyton for illuminating flares along the bombing route to aid their annual dinner and some of them visited the De navigation and target identification and despite Havilland museum near London the next day. Eighteen suffering heavy losses made an invaluable veterans along with over 100 family members of WWII contribution to the Allied war effort and played a key Pathfinders and Station personnel attended a service role in the liberation of Europe. The Fairthorpe Car Club he Fairthorpe Car Club visited RAF Wyton The Club has strong links with the Pathfinder Heritage Centre on Sunday 3rd August Force as Air Vice Marshal Don Bennett designed 2014, and members were especially and built cars with the Fairthorpe car company T interested in the Pathfinder Collection. after the war.

26 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 27 2331 (St Ives) Squadron, based at RAF Wyton, is one of nearly 900 Squadrons Monach Farm Riding Stables in the Air Cadet Organisation, an organisation that is open to young people Riding For All What Did You Do from the ages of 12 to 18 years of age. he Squadron offers opportunities to take Monach Farm Riding Stables offers part in a wide variety of activities that riding lessons for all ages & abilities. Last Weekend? range from flying and gliding, shooting, Taster sessions for young children just 15 T adventure training, sports and the Duke minutes with an individual helper. of Edinburgh Award Scheme through to First Aid Qualifications, Radio communication training, Childrens group lessons 30 minutes - all new riders have an individual helper. gaining BTEC’s and attending week-long camps on RAF Stations both in the UK and Overseas. Adult beginners welcome, our native ponies & coloured In the last six months, Cadets from 2331 Squadron cobs mean we can cater for all sizes of rider. have taken part in far too many activities to tell you about but here are some of the highlights, Adventure Training We cater for all abilities - specialising in children & novice adults Camp at Llanbedr in North Wales, Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels, 3 Children from 3 years of age Kayaking taster days, various sporting events, flying and gliding, Nijmegen and Pathfinder Marches, Fieldcraft 3 Maximum of 5 pupils in a class Camps and the Royal International Air Tattoo. 3 Hats & boots provided so you If you like the idea of challenging yourself, being part don’t need any equipment of a successful, experienced, energetic and motivated team taking part in possibly the most diverse range 3 Lessons start from just £10.00 of activities on offer within the United Kingdom then contact us and live up to the Air Cadet Organisations Call now to book a lesson Motto...... ”Venture Adventure” Tel: 01480 830426 For more information on joining the Squadron as a Mobile: 07714 399063 Cadet or a member of staff, phone 01480 52451 Ext 7096 Email: [email protected] or email [email protected] Parade Nights Tuesday & Thursday 19:00 - 21:30. Building 45, RAF Wyton.

News From... own bodyweight in meat! After the meal and upon discovering that Southampton city was deserted, the unanimous decision amongst the course was to call it a night and get some well earned rest for the next day. Day 3 - race day! The two yachts set sail from Southampton and rendezvoused at a predetermined buoy near Cowes, the final stop on the trip, before beginning the race from there. Following a close first leg and a battle with a cruise liner, Lofthouse’s yacht 57(R) Sqn! managed to edge ahead to a well deserved win and 57(R) Sqn continued their busy flying programme over the summer whilst also getting ready to move to RAF Cranwell and after completing they ‘even’ returned to accompany the other yacht Elementary Flying Training the course members of EFT 176 tried their across the finish line. That night was spent in the lively atmosphere of hand at sailing around the South Coast. Cowes where the losing crew successfully attempted n 14th July students and staff what we had learnt in port to practice out at sea, to regain some of their dignity by way of a ‘Boat race’ travelled down to the Joint Services battling rather ruthless waves as we did so. That and the ‘After Eight Challenge’. Adventurous Training Sailing Centre night was spent in Portsmouth where the crews It was a slow start on the final day as both crews O(JSATSC) at Gosport under the enjoyed a meal in the local Wetherspoon and felt worse for wear after the previous evening’s watchful guidance of skippers Flt Lt Lofthouse explored the delights of Gun Wharf Quays. shenanigans. Despite this, the day had to be spent and Flt Lt Clarke on Exercise SOLENT SMASH. The second day would be the longest spent sailing back to Gosport to return the yachts and With many of the students having never on the water; the two yachts setting sail for equipment to the JSATSC. experienced sailing before, it was a slow start Southampton, some 4 hours away. Along the The members of EFT 176 have since been with safety briefs and learning the basics of way, both crews set about practicing their drills streamed with one moving onto Fast Jets at RAF sailing, including knots, sails, winching and with the aim of honing them for the race that had Linton-on-Ouse, 3 onto Multi-Engines at RAF mooring. After a big food shop and signing out brewed from the previous night’s banter. Cranwell and 4 onto Rotary Wing at RAF Shawbury. two yachts for the week, the group split into two Upon arrival at Southampton the yachts were In conclusion, the week was thoroughly groups of 4 with a skipper on each yacht and, at moored and the squadron headed to a Brazilian enjoyed by both staff and students and was a midday on the Monday, set sail. Rodízio for a feed following a hard day’s work. great way to culminate what had been a very The first leg of the journey involved putting Here, most students and staff attempted to eat their successful flying course.

28 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 29 Sports Roundup ince the last edition of Eagleye, a number of projects being carried out by the PEd Flt have come to S fruition. In August Wg Cdr Fashade, CO RAF Wyton HQ was invited to open the Who are the Romaniacs? new Women’s Private Training Facility, the latest of these projects, and definitely the safety equipment. and I started at the very back of the grid because brightest and most welcoming. The entire city had an of time penalties incurred from fixing Ben’s bike Located on the first floor of the Stn Gym, excited buzz about the previous day. We then had to contend with the Women’s Private Training Facility provides the place with enduro me deciding to take my bike for a swim in a deep women with the opportunity of training in an bikes everywhere; river, effectively drowning it. Fortunately, although environment which offers them a little more factory teams mixing we failed in our efforts to effectively give my bike privacy than in the main gym – and no doubt in with ‘average joe’ ‘CPR’, emptying the water from every crevice and in a ‘testosterone-free zone’! and nearly every inch sparking it back in to life, some Romanian Police With vivid green walls, tasteful diffused- of car park and grass were able to organise a tow behind a farmer’s effect mirrors and a mix of gym-user friendly verge given over to truck. With a rope tied to my handlebars, we wooden and tiled flooring, the new training bikes and support eventually bump-started the bike back into life. facility gives gym-goers a warm welcome, vehicles. The hotels Unfortunately, by the time we had completed the and from all accounts a bright and airy space were full of the top final ascent, we were somewhat fatigued and very in which to train. Equipped with a variety professional riders, disappointed to hear the organisers had timed us of exercise machines and free weights, the all of whom were out, despite all our efforts, Like many others in facility also affords women the opportunity quite happy to chat.” our class, we were not allowed to proceed to the of bringing their children to the gym, safe Day One - “Taking last checkpoint of the day. However, although we PEd Flt Update in the knowledge that they aren’t going to Riding enduro or on obstacles such as logs, jumps, see-saws were forced to ‘abandon’ the day, it was our first wander off. and rock pits, Ben and I faired well in the timed abandonment and we were therefore allowed to Invited (or so he tells us) to officially open motocross bikes is prologue, gaining an earlier start time on the first compete on the final day.” the Women’s Private Training Facility, Wg Cdr tough; it requires day of the Rally – now for the main event… Bike Day Four – “As the final day dawned, we Fashade took great delight in discharging his physical fitness, and kit checked, we headed out of Sibiu to the start struggled back into our wet kit, checked the bikes Out Of Bounds! duty, taking time out to talk to a number of line. The next time our support crew would see us over and headed off for the last 153 km of the coordination and mental …CO RAF Wyton HQ visits the new women who had turned up for the opening would be at the service point on the outskirts of the event. Making it to the service point in good time, ceremony, and who were amongst the first to strength, and one of the Carpathian Mountains, some 4 hours later. Progress we had smiles on our faces after what had been Women’s Private Training Facility try out the newest Stn Gym facility. sports main events is the in the afternoon was much slower than we hoped, a challenging but enjoyable morning ride, and Red Bull Romaniacs. Ben and I using our experience to help other riders knowing that the dreaded day 3 was behind us. get their bikes up a particularly difficult hill. The day However, little did we know that the afternoon’s Having lived in the Huntingdon area all he walked in the room I was star struck - I he Romaniacs is part of a series of Hard finished at a river crossing requiring riders to exit on riding would be some of the most challenging his life, Andrew has recently bought his first remember taking in every word he said! Enduro events held around the world the opposite bank up a 20 foot sheer rock wall. This of the entire race. Even the finish would prove house in Alconbury Weston with his girlfriend from Turkey to South Africa. As you might proved to be quite a spectacle, as bikes and riders extreme! Eventually, with the finish line in sight, we Gemma. Although he supports Peterborough Which sport have you tried but are T have gathered from the term ‘Romaniacs’, were thrown or dragged up the embankment, or were headed for the final obstacle, a 20 foot long, United and enjoys going to their home games, absolutely rubbish at? the event is held in Romania and is deep in the dropped back into the river! Wary of the 3 days of 2 foot deep muddy puddle that had to be crossed he also admits (in private!) to being a bit of Volleyball – You all think if we work in the Carpathian Mountains, once home to the infamous riding to come, we found an alternative route with a on a floating bridge, less than a foot wide! Even an armchair Leeds United supporter (…we all gym we must be good at volleyball. However, Vlad the Impaler! less steep ascent.” some of the pro riders had taken one look at it have our crosses to bear Andrew!) I’ve never really played it and certainly not This year, the RAF enduro team comprising Day Two - “After another early start we headed into and shaken their heads in despair. However, Ben Andrew enjoys playing rugby but is not with any great success. Indeed, I believe my RAF Wyton’s Wg Cdr Martin Pickard and 17 year- the mountains. However, with Ben’s rear tyre and and I headed straight into the water, and although currently attached to a club, albeit he is CO’s Cup appearances are testament to that! old son, Ben, along with fellow team members mousse collapsing only 20 minutes into the race, it wasn’t pretty, we made it to the other side and looking out for one to join. Meanwhile, he and mechanical support, Sqn Ldr Lex Colyer and the omens weren’t good. In deed, no sooner had were officially recognised as finishers of the 2014 regularly turns out for the Wyton Eagles, the Pre-match meal? Andy Wilson, headed out for the Red Bull event in his rear wheel been replaced, he crashed his bike, Red Bull Romaniacs - unlike the four members Station team currently going from strength A mars bar and plenty of water Romania with high expectations. Speaking ahead damaging the exhaust and splitting a radiator hose. of the Army team to strength. Enthusiastic about personal of their departure, Sqn Ldr Colyer said: “Both Martin Trailside repairs sorted, the two incidents had set us who all failed training, he also runs his own small business. and Ben are experienced off-road riders. Having back almost 2 hours and we only just made it to the to finish!” Now a few personal questions! competed in numerous ‘hard enduro’ events second checkpoint in time. Arriving at the service Spo(r)t-light on….. Who is your sporting idol? around the UK in preparation, we’re looking forward point, Andy jumped into action, stripping the spares Lewis Hamilton - I am a massive Formula Guilty pleasure? (Keep it clean!) to a great event for the team in what will be our first bike for parts and reassembling Ben’s exhaust, albeit Andrew Warren One fan. I believe Lewis is the most exciting Wearing tight t shirts visit. It is sure to be an amazingly tough ride!” in a slightly Heath Robinson fashion! Remarkably, and talented driver on the circuit and hopefully Known as the World’s Toughest Hard-Enduro 20 minutes later we were on our way again. The We shine the spo(r)t-light on sporting he’ll be world champion this year. Who would you most like to go on a date Rally, the Red Bull Romaniacs starts with a timed second day finished with a 200m ride down a personalities here at RAF Wyton.... what with? Prologue event held in the streets of Sibiu city wide river, which provided further entertainment for makes them tick, what sport means to them What is your most fond personal sporting It would always have to be my girl friend centre. It is then followed by 4 days of the hardest spectators, as riders drowned their bikes and had to and a few things they don’t always share! memory? Gemma. However, it would be nice if she riding to be found anywhere in the world. This year, push or be towed to the end. We ended the day in My fondest memory wasn’t from playing offered to pay occasionally! 366 riders from 40 countries took part, including a Voineasa, Race Headquarters.” mployed by Babcock as part of the any particular sport. It was a motivational team of four riders from the Army. Day Three - “Billed as the toughest day MAC-CRL contract, Andrew (22) works speech made by Sir Clive Woodward, who Favourite film? So how did our boys do? Wg Cdr Pickard picks yet, and designed to break riders after in the Station Gymnasium and has been managed the England Rugby Union team to Rush – All about smart cars and fast up the story for us: “Events kicked off with the long they’d already completed two and a E at RAF Wyton for three and a half years. world cup glory in AustraliaThe in 2003.Everest WhenWall women… …or is it the other way round! process of scrutineering, registering and checking half days of gruelling racing, Ben Ben Pickard

30 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 31 • Noise Protection • Custom made ear • Wax Removal plugs for Shooting or • FREE Hearing Screening Swimming Tests The Hearing Centre, 9 Crown Street, St Ives, Cambs, PE27 5EB Telephone number: 01480 300955 E-mail: [email protected]

Est. 1979

St Ives Burleigh Centre 01480 300389 Huntingdon 36 St Johns St 01480 52601 Denise’s St Neots 1 Linclare Place 01480 216612 Ramsey 57 Great Whyte 01487 814789 Flowers Cambourne 4 High St 01954 715161 Flowers for all Occasions Charity Sawtry 56 Green End Rd 01487 800199 5 Bull Lane, St Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 5AX 24 hr Emergency Service (Down Free Church passage) 01480 52222 01480 461224 Based at RCVS approved hospital in Huntingdon www.denisesflowers.co.uk Car Wash FREE DELIVERY TO RAF WYTON www.cromwellvets.co.uk WHEN YOU MENTION ADVERT

he Station Charities Committee, always keen to boost funds, recently held a ‘Get your car Just Sharing St. Ives’ Fair Trade Shop T washed here’ session. Over £160 was raised and ‘washers’ included Come and see our great Andy Warren, Simon Ryan, Ian Roberts, range of Fair Trade jewellery, scarves, toys and crafts from Gary James, Will Cole, L/Cpl Charley around the world; and, from Eccles, Laura Holmes and WO Don the end of October, Christmas MacLarty. Even the Committee chairman cards, Advent calendars, Maj Al York lent a hand! decorations and nativities. open Monday to Saturday 9:30 – 4:30

St.Ives Free Church, Market Hill, St.Ives, Cambridgeshire, PE27 5AL 01480 496570 Energy really does matter! [email protected] How much do you think the Station’s What can YOU do: make quite an impact and remember what YOU annual energy bill is? • unplug non-essential electrical appliances when save can be targeted elsewhere within the MOD. Would you be surprised to know it is a they are not in use For further information on what you can do Think Print staggering £1,100,000 – yes we do mean • turn heating down rather than open windows to help, take a look at the Station Sustainable £1.1 million. • avoid heating and lighting areas not in regular use Development MOSS site. A ‘Utilities Action Lance Print is an established printers based in Huntingdon near Cambridge. At Lance we • try not to print or photocopy unless necessary Forum’ will be established at Wyton shortly Call Today: combine skill, experience & knowledge to YOU have a role in helping reduce this not • when away from your PC for more than 15 where you can discuss any utility issues or ideas provide a complete professional service. just for financial reasons but to help protect the minutes turn off the monitor Make sure you regarding sustainability. For more information (01480) environment by reducing CO2 emissions. Energy switch your computer off before going home. contact DIO’s Area Utilities Manager, Sarah We aim to fill our clients with confidence in the consumption is considered to be one of the main Kane on Wyton 4278. knowledge that any work undertaken by us, will 492183 contributors influencing climate change so it really You may not think it will make much difference http://cui5-uk.diif.r.mil.uk/r/296/SHEA/Lists/ Just 2 minutes from RAF Wyton at; be completed to the highest possible standard. Unit 9, Houghton Hill Industries, is important to all of us. but added together across the Station we could Sustainable%20Development/AllItems.aspx Houghton PE28 2DH 01480 468196 www.stivestackle.co.uk www.lanceprint.co.uk

32 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 33 Summer Activities Included: RAF Wyton Residential, RAF Cosford Arts & Crafts Youth Sports & Games Wicksteed Park Club Cheerleading Shelter Building Paintballing, Thetford Forest Graffiti Project Music Project Martial Arts (self-defence) Thorpe Woodlands, Thetford Forest Cinema and Frankie & Benny’s S15 Missions and McDonalds Street Dance Junior Youth Club: (8-11 yrs) - Mondays 5 - 6.30pm and BBQ Summer Extravaganza Wednesdays 5 - 7pm - Term time.

Senior Youth Club: (11-15 yrs) - Mondays 7 - 9pm - Term time.

Activities: Arts and Crafts, Cooking, Games, Sports, Competitions, Bingo, Pizza Nights, Air Hockey, Pool Tournaments, Table Football, Xbox 360 / Wii and so much more.

School holidays: Special programme of events will be arranged

Subscriptions: Junior and senior weekly subs - £1. Maddie Leitch, aged 8: “I was really pleased at overcoming some of my fears. By the end We would like to invite you to come and visit our Youth Club and meet the Youth Team A Sizzling Summer At of the raft building I was even jumping in the Workers. There are also opportunities to help water and enjoying myself. I was very proud of the team out with the running of activities - do myself.” you have a particular skill or interest that would Reese Grey, aged 12: “The teamwork was benefit young people? ‘Wicked’ Wyton! really good especially with the raft building. For more information please contact Some of the young children were really scared Denise Barr on 07717 231796 or denise. but some of the older ones helped out. I HALF TERM [email protected] Over the summer holidays the youth club had particularly enjoyed the climbing and the power ACTIVITIES two fun filled weeks of activities for its members fan jump. It was so high and it was great fun.” Valentine Stout, aged 8: “I loved the crate Ice SkatingMon 27thPeterborough Oct: stacking, making towers was really exciting. The ranging from arts and crafts / sports and Wed 28th Oct: rock climbing was really high and really fun.” London Museums games to paintballing in Thetford Forest and a Matthew Leheup-Long, aged 10: “When I Thurs 30th Oct: had a go at the power fan jump it felt like I could Halloween Party Look out for more info residential at RAF Cosford. fly. I enjoyed it so much I jumped backwards the second time.” ne of the most popular sessions was a great place and I knew this would challenge the Other comments included: “really good Looking to the future trip to Thorpe Woodlands in Thetford young people, and address some of their fears, it apart from getting drowned”; “I loved pushing Forest. Denise, who has recently also enabled them to work as a team where they people in”; “our raft was unstable but I would s well as putting together a busy and exciting programme for the autumn months taken over as the Station Youth Worker, grew in confidence and learned the importance not change it because it was more fun”; “crate Denise is looking into the possibility of obtaining some musical instruments Denise Barr, O including a drum kit and some electric guitars. There are also plans for some had used the area before and was confident that of compromise.” stacking - knocking them over was the best!” Station Youth Worker the young people would have an amazing time - Perhaps the best way to judge the day is to hear and two words which cropped up again and A instructor led music sessions. Long term the Station hopes to replace some of the of course she was right. Denise explained: “It is a from the people who went: again: “Awesome!” and “Wicked!” furniture.Why not come along......

34 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 35 WO Don MacLarty, SCSO RAF Wyton Community Support Information

SCSO: The Station interface with Defence Key Personnel Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) & Modern Current Offers And Hive Information Friday 0900-1300. Local CAP co-ordinator: Wyton Thrift Shop - Located at 9 Cornwall In The Community Housing Solutions (MHS) and can act Discounts For Service Zoe Atkins Road. Tuesday 1000-1500. as ‘champion’ for the SFA community in Personnel In The Community Wyton HIVE Information Centre - Located Station Community Support representing their interests to the chain within the Community Centre, Pathfinder Way. Occupants Consultative Meeting (OCM) Brampton Community Centre - Available for Officer (SCSO): of command. One Leisure: A special Military discounted Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 0900 Your opportunity to speak face to face with groups to book – days and evening. WO Don MacLarty CDO: Actively networks on your behalf to offer with Discount Card for Military - 1500, Wednesday: 1130 - 1500, Thursday: DIO/MHS - Next meeting: 04 Nov, 1000 hrs, Contact SCSA Laura Holmes 01480 52451 ext 8799. Email: [email protected] ensure that you have all the support you are personnel and their families - Leisure 1230 - 1500. Tel: 01480 52451 Ext 7031. Skyways Conference Centre, RAF Wyton. Tel: 01480 52451 ext 7250 / 8799 entitled to at Station and Local Authority level. Centres located in Huntingdon, Ramsay, Mace Shop - Located on Pathfinder Way, The CDO works closely on youth projects with Sawtry, St Ives and St Neots - Please contact Cornwall Road HIVE Information Centre Station Facilities RAF Wyton. For all your daily and weekly Community Development the Station Youth Worker. HIVE IO for application forms. Located at 14 Cornwall Road, Wyton SFA. grocery needs. Officer (CDO): Station Youth Worker: Responsible OASIS Leisure Centre: A special Military Opening hours: Wednesday 0900 - 1100 Tel: Community Minibus for hire - Daily/Weekly Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 0730-1800 hrs, Sat & Ms Sigrid Hillman for all youth provision and also provides discounted offer for Military personnel (free) 07767 354193. rates. Contact Laura Holmes on Wyt 8799 for Sun: 0900-1300 hrs. Post Office facilities also Email: [email protected] holiday activities. and their families (£1.50 per session) - No more details. available during opening hours. Tel 01480 52451 Ext 7198 SSAFA-FH: Provides direct, confidential application form required / just present Brampton HIVE - Located 2 – 8 Montague welfare service to tri-Service, MPGS, single and Service ID card - located in Bedford. Road. - Opening hours Thursday 0930 - 1200 Wyton Coffee Shop - Located within the Top Cuts - Located on Cornwall Road (opposite Community Support Assistant: married Service personnel and their families, Leisure Vouchers: Home Alone tel 07767 354193. Available for groups to use. Community Centre - Eat in or Take away. old Post Office) - Book an appointment on Mrs Laura Holmes including counselling and professional help. Dependants (only) - Free leisure vouchers Opening hours: Monday to Friday 0915- 01480 52451 Ext 7151. Email: [email protected] Chaplain: Plays an essential role in supporting etc for the whole family once deployed on Housing 1330 (incl’ during school holidays) - The Tel: 01480 52451 ext 8799 the Station’s Community. They have ready Out Of Area tour - Please contact SCSO. coffee shop is open to all station personnel Grapevine Club - open to all dependants of access to the Station Commander, Station Impington Sports Centre: A special Housing Allocations Service Centre (HASC) and families. It offers a good priced menu, Brampton/Wyton Personnel, aged 18 years or 42 Engr Regt (Geo) executives and personnel services. They offer Military discounted membership and single Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday including homemade cakes and snacks, all over. The club aims to be a social networking Welfare Officer: a totally confidential service. entry to swimming pool and Spa - No & Friday 0830-1500 and Thursday 0830-1200 of which can be pre ordered (priority given to group and will be holding events throughout Susan Hetzke HIVE: An information network available to application form required / just present (PM closure: to allow for staff training and pre orders). All food is freshly made to order. the year. Contacts: Chairperson - Sharron Email: [email protected] all members of the Station Community. The Service ID card. development) Tel: 0800 169 6322. Vegetarians catered for - Contact: 01480 White 455375, HIVE IO - Nancy Packham Tel: 01480 52451 Ext 6590 Information Centres offer an extensive range Gullivers Land, Milton Keynes: A 52451 Ext 7590. 01480 52451 x 7031. of information, local knowledge and relocation discounted rate of £11.95 per person (the SFA Complaints Process - First stage Padre: information. HIVE Information Officers are not normal rate is £18.95) and in addition, for complaints against DIO Ops staff or services Wyton Youth Club - Located at 2-4 Cornwall Military Wives Choirs Foundation Rev(Sqn Ldr) Steve Radley trained in welfare counselling. However, they every 12 paying guests you will receive one (including Movein) are to be sent to the DIO Ops Road, Wyton SFA. Weekly Subs £1.00 Junior Email: [email protected] are able to offer initial support to individuals and extra free of charge. No application form Accommodation Customer Service team at RAF session (8-11 yrs) - Mon 5-6.30 pm and Wed www.militarywiveschoirs.org Tel: 01480 52451 Ext 7225 can advise referral to the professional agencies required / just present Service ID card. Wyton at the following address: DIO Operations 5-7 pm. Senior session (11-15 yrs) Mon 7-9 The Foundation Is a network of choirs set best suited to the circumstances. All HIVE staff Defence Discount Service: Accommodation, Ground Floor Swales Pavilion, pm. For more information contact Denise up to bring women in the military community SSAFA Worker: are bound to the Code of Confidentiality. www.defencediscountservice.co.uk RAF Wyton, Cambridgeshire, PE28 2EA - The Barr 07717231796, Siggy Hillman (CDO) close together through singing. There are no Mrs Pam Evans stage one team record complaints and task the on 01480 52451 ext 7198 or WO Don MacLarty auditions required and no need to read music. Email: [email protected] relevant DIO department to respond. (SCSO) ext 7250. Our MWC meets at St George’s Church on Tel: 01480 52451 Ext 7097 Wednesdays at 7 pm for approx 1 ½ hours. Customer Assistance Point - Wyton HIVE Brampton Thrift Shop - located at 2-8 Come along and see what happens – no Station Medical Officer (SMO): Future Station Community Centre: Monday, Wednesday and Montagu Rd Tues and Thurs 10-3. commitment needed until you are sure! Dr S Randhawa (CMP) Events FS Kerry Finlay (Practice Manager) FAMILIES’ Tel: 01480 52451 Ext 7220 27 Oct - Ice Skating, TRIPS Come Along To The Peterborough COMING HIVE Information Officer SOON... Senior Youth Club (HIVE IO): Community Support 28 Oct - London Santa Express – Nene Valley Mrs Nancy Packham Coffee Mornings Museums Children’s Xmas Party 11-15yrs Email: [email protected] Peter Pan Panto For more information please contact Denise 7 Nov - Station Mon 7-9pm Next session Mon 5 - 6.30pm Wed 5 - 7pm Barr (Station Youth Worker) on 07717 231796. Tel: 01480 52451 Ext 7031 Bonfire Night Wednesday 22 Oct, 26 Nov, 10 Dec

36 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 LEAVES FALLEN 6 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 37 LEISURE CORNER Sudoku You could be 8 4 1 6 in the Algarve, 7 3 6 4 9 4 9 relaxing in the sun... 4 8 3 5 Where do you read 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 3 2 5 7 Eagleye? minutes to the marina and another 5 to the town centre). ‘Bob’ picked up Eagleye whilst visiting the Station and his 7 5 1 It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, employer couldn’t resist capturing it on camera! microwave, toaster 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 5 8 3 6 7 and CD player are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which Where do you read Eagleye? open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. Send your pics to There is ample car parking space in front of the building. 7 2 8 5 [email protected] www.algarveestatemanagement.co.uk apt meia PRICES: To place an advert in a future Nov to Mar £190 BOAT TRIPS ALTERATIONS REPAIRS Apr & Oct £255 • PIRATE AND MADE TO MEASURE issue, or if you would like to May & Sept £290 June £330 • WILDLIFE make an enquiry regarding our July & Aug £410 • GROUP PARTY TRIPS design and print services, • WEDDINGS • HEN PARTIES Call Jo on 01536 526674 • FAMILY SPECIALS Unit 1C Highgate Farm, Over Road, or email [email protected] see website for details Willingham, Cambs, CB24 5EU Tel: 01954 260280 www.sewandsewuk.com

Digital Design Sales and Marketing Contract Publishing Branding Solutions PRODUCTION Lance Publishing Ltd Tel: 01536 521126 To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884 1st Floor, Tailby House, [email protected] Apartments can also be booked very competitively at [email protected] Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL www.lancepublishing.co.uk

38 eagleye Sept/Oct 2014 Sept/Oct 2014 eagleye 39