RAF News Edition 1528, 28 Jan 2022

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Friday January 28 2022 No. 1528 70p

R'n'R p8

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50 years saving lives for 84 Sqn Football

Super Ref

See 6p1 17

Typhoon on Red alert for Nevada showdown

See page 27

Gliding

Alps hopes

See pages 28-29

Bobsleigh

Game on THE ATLANTIC Flyers team of RAF pilots celebrate after clinching second place in the 3000-mile Atlantic See Challenge after 36 days at sea p3 PHOTO: ATLANTIC CAMPAIGNS

See pages 30-31

RAF TYPHOON crews have joined USAF and Australian Air Force crews at the Nellis airbase in Nevada for Exercise Red Flag – the biggest combat drill in the Allied air power calendar.

More than 300 UK personnel will be honing their warfighting skills alongside Allied aircrew in a series of high-stakes combat scenarios over the Mojave desert.

Detachment Commander Gp Capt Rob Barrett said: “After months of preparation Red Flag is now getting under way.

“The exercise will provide unparalleled training for our air and space warfighters and will help prepare them for operations against any adversary who may choose to confront us in the air, space and cyber domains.

The opportunity to reaffirm our close ties with USAF and RAAF colleagues is very welcome.”

Continued on p2

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P2

“

I hope seeing our personnel at the Beijing Games inspires others to take up the sport” RAF bobsleigh chief Sqn Ldr Heather Ratnage-Black See pages 30-31

“

“

I love meeting people and learning about different cultures”

I’ve flown Tornado and Typhoon, but being involved in Virgin Orbit’s space programme is a truly unique experience” RAF ‘rocket man’ Flt Lt Matthew Stannard See p13

Breaking Dad star Bradley Walsh See RnR pp4-5

Red Flag desert drill tests Allied air power RAF News Room 68 Lancaster Building HQ Air Command High Wycombe Buckinghamshire HP14 4UE Editor: Simon Williams Email: editor@rafnews.co.uk Features Editor: Tracey Allen Email: tracey.allen@rafnews.co.uk News Editor: Simon Mander

Continued from front page During the three-week training drill air chiefs will assess how to increase interoperability between combat and surveillance platforms to counter potential threats from adversaries on land, in the air and in space.

Lossiemouth-based 1(F) Sqn and Coningsby’s 41 Sqn jets are being supported by Brize Norton’s 10 and 101 Sqn Voyager tankers and ground crews from across the Service.

Wg Cdr John Cockroft, the Officer Commanding 1 (F) Sqn, said: “We have conducted operations with the UK’s Allies and partner nations for many years.

“It is by conducting exercises like Red Flag that RAF squadrons are able to carry out these operations so successfully with such important allies as Australia and the United States.”

ETT GP CAPT BARR

This Week In History

Sports Editor: Daniel Abrahams Email: sports@rafnews.co.uk Tel: 07966 429755

1962

Gnat debut

All advertising: Edwin Rodrigues Tel: 07482 571535 Email: edwin.rodrigues@ rafnews.co.uk Subscriptions and distribution: RAF News Subscriptions c/o Intermedia, Unit 6 The Enterprise Centre, Kelvin Lane, Crawley RH10 9PE Tel: 01293 312191 Email: rafnewssubs@ subscriptionhelpline.co.uk

ALLIED AIRPOWER: Typhoons prepare for takeoff at Nellis Air Base, Nevada PHOTOS: SAC CONNOR TIERNEY

THE FIRST Gnat trainer is delivered to the Central Flying School at RAF Little Rissington.

1940

U-Boat raid COASTAL COMMAND achieves its first success as a 228 Sqn Sunderland is involved with the sinking of the Nazi U-Boat U-55 off Ushant.

2002

Long-haul SAR mission A 202 Sqn Sea King Search and Rescue helicopter rescues 18 fishermen from a French trawler 250 miles west of the Hebrides.

Extracts from The Royal Air Force Day By Day by Air Cdre Graham Pitchfork (The History Press)

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P3

News

IT’S CHEST AMAZING: Foursome celebrate at the finish in Antigua and are reunited with family, centre PHOTOS: ATLANTIC CAMPAIGNS

RAF’s Flyers land Simon Mander EMOTIONAL SCENES greeted four RAF pilots reunited with their families after finishing one of the world’s toughest rowing challenges.

Tears flowed after the Atlantic Flyers reached Antigua, completing a 3,000-mile journey to raise £33,249 for a children’s cancer charity.

Team member Wg Cdr Phil Holdcroft took up the oars to repay the Starlight Children’s Foundation that supported his seven-year-old daughter Isla’s battle with leukaemia.

And after 36 days – 867

hours – at sea there were hugs at the finishing line at Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua & Barbuda.

Wg Cdr Holdcroft said: “After 3,000 miles of blood sweat and tears, holding Isla in my arms was the sweetest imaginable reward.

“The moment I saw my family the emotional floodgates opened.

“The finish line was not just the end of the trans-Atlantic row… it represented the end of Isla’s battle with leukaemia… it was the sweetest imaginable moment of triumph over adversity.

“Undoubtedly my proudest day in ‘uniform’.”

Sailing from La Gomera in

the Canary Islands on December 12 the rowers pulled around 1.5 million oar strokes, used almost 800 sheets of toilet paper and burned more than 5,000 calories each day on their voyage.

They saw 20-foot-high waves, beautiful marine wildlife and experienced stomach cramps, sleep deprivation, hallucinations, salt sores and hunger.

And although finishing second behind the ‘Swiss Raw’ team, they beat two sets of Army competitors – the Royal Engineers’ Salty Sappers and the Royal Army Physical Training Corps’ Force Atlantic, who finished ninth.

Team member Sqn Ldr Sonny Roe said: “We’re proud to have competed the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge under the banner of the RAF, especially as there was a strong showing from the British Army teams.

“Having the support of the RAF community behind us spurred us on throughout and we hope that we’ve done everyone proud.”

The crew were bouyed by a wave of support, including Christmas cards from youngsters ill in hospital, who they replied to by posting video updates and selfies.

Flt Lt Berry said: “This has been the most all-encompassing

HEALTH BATTLE: Isla with dad Phil

physical and mental challenge I have ever been a part of, and it’s been a huge privilege to share it with my friends and colleagues under the RAF banner.

“We can’t possibly thank everyone enough that’s supported and cheered us on from different corners of the world, it really was the difference, to spur us on and give us the strength we needed.”

Flt Lt Chris Carrington-Smith completed the team, who were backed by the RAF Central Fund and Sports Federation.

Dakota-on-skis Arctic ice rescue hero Eric hits 100 A FORMER pilot who rescued nine aircrew from a polar ice cap using a borrowed USAF Dakota fitted with skis has celebrated his 100th birthday.

World War II veteran Sqn Ldr Eric Robinson won the OBE for saving comrades who endured nine days in temperatures of -50C. His other exploits included dodging German fighters off the Dutch coast in a Lancaster during a career in which he flew 52 aircraft types – his favourite being the Harvard trainer.

Sqn Ldr Robinson was joined by family, friends and members of 611 Squadron, based at RAF Woodvale, for his birthday celebration.

He joined the RAF in 1941 and spent much of the war as a pilot instructor in Canada before

POLAR MISSIONS: Hasting on the ice

RAF FAMILY: Eric with 611 Sqn members

OBE: Receiving his gong at the palace

completing more than 200 sorties during the Berlin Airlift, flying commercially, then returning to

Woodvale in the 1980s to fly with Air Cadets in Chipmunks.

He said: “I never expected this,

it has been a complete surprise and a wonderful experience. I only wish I was the same age as some of the young RAF lads and could get back to flying at Woodvale.”

His grandson Paul Robinson said: “It has been special to

receive a letter from the Chief of the Air Staff and a video from the RAF Band playing happy birthday, but it is extra special to have the RAF here to share the celebrations.

“We are very proud of his service and all that he has done.”

A Tomahawk staged a flypast over Eric’s Wirral home to mark the occasion.

611 Squadron Warrant Officer Kev Mathison said: “It is very important to continue to express our gratitude to our veterans and to recognise the sacrifices they have made and the bravery they have shown.”

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P5

News

Medal honour for heroes of Kabul airlift SERVICE PERSONNEL and civilians who helped airlift thousands of Afghans and British nationals from Kabul as the Taliban seized control of the country are to be decorated.

The Operational Service Medal will be given to those involved in the largest humanitarian aid operation in 70 years.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “Operation Pitting will go down as one of the great achievements of our UK Armed Services and their civilian counterparts in the post-war era.

“The whole country can be immensely proud of their tireless

EVACUATION: RAF, Army and Navy personnel who took part to receive OSM

work to bring men, women and children to safety. They represent the very best of us.”

During the crisis, the military provided food and water, clothing and medical supplies for evacuees and policed the airport.

The RAF also completed a record-breaking flight with 439 passengers on a C-17 Globemaster.

The operation ended with more than 15,000 people rescued on 100 flights, from 38 different nations.

Chief of the Air Staff, ACM Sir Mike Wigston, added: “Over an intense, sustained period last summer our people demonstrated bravery, professionalism and overwhelming compassion in the finest traditions of the RAF. I am

Defence counts cost of gay ban

delighted their service has been recognised in this way.”

Following approval from the Queen, they will get the existing OSM Afghanistan with an ‘Operation Pitting’ clasp.

Those who already have the medal with the ‘Afghanistan’ clasp will receive the new clasp to affix to the ribbon. The medal is silver and circular in shape. The ribbon consists of a broad central red stripe, flanked each side by a stripe of navy blue and one of light blue, to represent the three services, with an outer stripe of light brown, to represent the Afghan landscape.

In Brief

Staff Reporter LGBT FORCES veterans and campaigners have welcomed a Government review into the financial and mental hardship suffered by military personnel dismissed from the Armed Forces because of their sexuality.

Thousands of personnel were stripped of their pensions and medals under the hardline ruling outlawing homosexuality in the British military.

Veterans minister Leo Docherty this month announced a review into the plight of those hit by the ban, which was finally lifted in 2000 following a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights.

Former SAC fireman Carl Austin-Behan was on the verge of promotion and signing on for 22 years’ service when he was dismissed PROUD TO SERVE: because he was gay.

Royal Air Force personnel take part in He joined the London Pride march Air Force aged 19 and, after serving for six years, was deserve it should Howe ver were dismissed are growing ready to pursue his be compensated, campaigners older and reaching the point dream of becoming a and there should are demanding where health and wellbeing are commissioned officer. be a review and more financial very important.

He was stripped restoration of lost and welfare RESEARCH: Caroline Paige “The Government says that of his medals, pensions. support for the nation respects those who marched off camp, “We need veterans left d e s t i t u t e have served their country but part and threatened with ORDEAL: SAC Carl Austin-Behan investment in after being prosecuted by the MoD. of that community is still ignored. military prison.

LGBT+ veteran The RAF’s first openly “Serving in the military is a way Carl, who became support services transgender woman to serve on the of life – it’s not just a job. the first openly gay frontline, ex-navigator Caroline “To say I was not part of that Lord Mayor of Manchester in 2016, including education, mental Paige, set up the Fighting With family after my service, where and now runs his own business, health and wellbeing support.

Pride organisation last year and my skills and experience were said: “This review is a long time All veterans should be treated launched a two-year study with never questioned, on the basis of overdue and I hope that it’s not with respect and dignity.”

The latest review Northumbria University into how I identify would have been drawn out. the welfare of veterans unbearable for me.

“The Government needs to follows a decision prosecuted under “That kind of pressure and fear support our LGBT veterans who last year to allow previous Forces’ law. kept me hiding my true self for 19 were investigated, interrogated, gay Forces vets She added: “The years. imprisoned and then thrown out to apply to have their medals legacy of the damage “For others it has meant the just for being gay. awards done to veterans can’t be loss of their job, their homes, their “Who they loved had no impact and today Carl : SUCCESS on their ability to serve. Those who restored. airbrushed. Those who friends and their families.”

COUNTRY STROLL: Cpl Francis covered twice the length of Britain for charity

Charity star Helen goes the distance

SUPER-FIT RUNNER Cpl Helen Francis has clocked up the length of Britain twice in her fight against a rare auto immune disease.

The Ramstein-based RAF police officer had to shield against Covid after being diagnosed with Sjorgrens Syndrome that causes arthritis.

Despite the restrictions she still ran more than 2,000kms last year – an average of 5.5km a day – to raise cash for charity.

Cpl Francis said: “I have spent more than 201 hours running and have covered the distance from Land’s End to John O’Groats and back again.

It has been exhausting and exhilarating and I am so happy that I was able to complete my run with such a great bunch of people to support me.”

British residents celebrated her last leg, that raised £3,197, on New Year’s Eve. Cpl Francis will continue to support ‘Versus Arthritis’ in 2022 by completing four marathons.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P7

News

Honour restored WONDER WALL: Survival instructor Mark Fairhead, who instigated the tribute to the RAF’s latter day heroes in 2007

Simon Mander THE FIRST VIP guests signed on following the official opening of the new Wall of Honour at Cranwell.

Former Wessex, Chinook and Puma pilot Air Marshal Sir Baz North, who commanded campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq, added his name on the installation unveiled at the new survival training centre at the RAF College.

Sir Baz followed the first person to sign the original wall in 2007 – Air Cdre Simon Falla, who was Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff Joint Helicopter Command until his retirement 2010.

“It’s fitting they are the first to open this one,” said Aircrew Survival Evasion Resistance and Extract tion Training Centre instructor Mark ‘Square’ Fairhead, who came up with the idea.

A Puma helicopter crash in Bavaria in 1997 which killed a comrade and left him injured inspired the survival expert to set up a lasting memorial to aviation heroes.

The former RAF Regt Gunner and 7 Sqn Chinook loadmaster, who now Commands the Robson Academy of Resilience’s Aircrew SERE Trg Centre, used his life-changing experience and that of others to help future aircrew who might one day find themselves behind enemy lines.

Originally named the Wall of Gallantry, the first wall was designed to celebrate the heroism of modern day military crews and inspire the latest UK Defence graduates passing survival training and was painted in 2007 in the station’s hangar 266.

The ASTC moved to make way for the military flying training system and the wall was painted over.

SIGNING ON: Air Cdre Chas Dickens unveils the new display

AM SIR BA

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Heroes go to the Wall as Cranwell tribute is rebuilt

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AMPBELL

A second version was unveiled in 2015 by Air Marshal Andrew Turner at the new SERE classroom in Rauceby Lane. That was lost when the building was condemned last year and the survival team moved to their current home.

Since its inception is has served as a personal record of those who have triumphed over adversity

ITH

GP CAPT SM

in every conflict the RAF has fought in since WWII. The latest version includes modern fighters, a Chinook, Spitfire and Lancaster, and depicts an isolated aviator using location aids to attract rescuers.

It features the ASTC motto ‘Animus Invictus’ meaning ‘unbroken spirit,’ and a poppy of remembrance for those who didn’t

SERE EXEC

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make it back.

Tornado F3 veteran and Cranwell Commandant Air Cdre ‘Chas’ Dickens also signed on to officially open the latest incarnation.

Mr Fairhead added: “He commented on the importance of new aviators having the opportunity to listen to the experience of their forbears, especially those who have

done so many remarkable things themselves in order to be invited.”

Other personnel invited to sign included Robson Academy of Resilience Commandant Gp Capt Mark Smith, a former test parachutist and RAF Falcon who worked on Airborne Forces projects during the Iraq conflict and in the British Embassy’s CounterNarcotics Team in Kabul.

Limbless veteran and ASTC executive officer Kirk Bowett, who previously signed after losing his left arm in Iraq, added his name along with Sqn Ldr Nigel Moseley, who signed with TV presenter and survival expert Ray Mears, when he retired from the RAF after 37 years.

Station chief photographer Gordy Elias, whose team have documented more than 130 guests, and Station Commander RAF Cranwell, Gp Capt Dr Joanne Campbell, who drove the relocation of the ASTC through the Covid pandemic, were also invited to add their signatures.

Wg Cdr Tim Page, who provided training to support UK Special Forces in Afghanistan and manages the Robson Academy of Resilience, and former Chinook loadmaster and Cranwell Station Warrant Officer MACr Marcus Burton were the final guests to sign during the ceremony.

Mr Fairhead added: “The criteria are strict and include aviators who have won gallantry awards, crashed, ejected, ditched, or abandoned an aircraft, or who have escaped and avoided the enemy to get back to fly.

“In 2015, that criteria was broadened to include personnel who epitomise the Centre’s motto by recovering from physical and mental injury and includes Invictus Games competitors.”

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28 , 2022 P9

News News Bulletin

Long-haul Herc in Pole position

STAR ATTRACTION: Vintage warbirds will be among headline attractions at show

Cosford set for Jubilee comback THE COSFORD Air Show is making a comeback to mark the Royal Jubilee after two years of Covid cancellations.

Organisers are promising a packed programme of displays to celebrate 70 years of aviation during HM The Queen’s reign.

Along with flying displays the show will feature science and technology exhibits and 40s-style vintage entertainment.

Air Show chairman Wg Cdr Kenny Wickens said: “A huge amount of work has been done to ensure we can provide a safe and enjoyable show for all of our visitors.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone back to RAF Cosford for a day of celebration and entertainment.”

Go to: cosfordairshow.co.uk to book tickets.

POLAR SCIENTISTS are to get vital fuel supplies from a Brize-based C-130J Hercules.

The 47 Sqn transporter has set off on an 11,000-mile journey to carry out the mission as part of Exercise Austral Endurance.

The aircraft will call at Gibraltar,

Senegal, Ascension Islands and Rio de Janeiro before arriving at RAF Mount Pleasant – from where it will conduct a series of resupply flights for the British Antarctic Survey forward base Sky Blu. The operating station is located in southern Palmer Land, Antarctica and is

named after the hard and dense blue ice that surrounds it.

The Hercules, fitted with external fuel tanks, has a range of more than 3,500 miles unloaded and will extend that by conducting air-to-air refuelling with a Falklands-based Voyager.

Latest P-8 arrival completes fleet Simon Mander

FLOWER POWER: Green-fingered volunteers get to work on RAFBF display

John digs in GARDENING GURU John Everiss is backing a bid by RAF charity chiefs to take top honours at the Chelsea Flower Show.

The award-winning horticulturist and sculptor offered his services to honour his father, WWII navigator Stan, who evaded the Nazis and escaped to Spain with the help of resistance fighters after he was shot down over France.

John will help create the display, which will feature a steel statue of a pilot gazing skywards.

He said: “As a member of the RAF Family, the opportunity to highlight the work the charity does is a privilege for me and ss my team, we really GURU: John Everi can’t wait to get going.”

THE RAF’S fleet of sub-hunters is complete following the arrival of the ninth Poseidon at Lossiemouth.

Preparations are now underway to welcome the first Wedgetail surveillance aircraft to the Moray station next year.

The final, as yet unnamed P-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft ZP809, touched down 23 months after the first, ZP801 dubbed Pride of Moray, landed in Scotland.

It will be housed in the new £100 million Atlantic Building handed over by Boeing in June 2020 and will be operated by 201 and CXX Sqn. Lossiemouth station commander Gp Capt Chris Layden said: “This completes the RAF’s maritime patrol fleet and marks an important milestone on the journey towards full operational capability, securing the seas around the UK.” A formal ceremony is expected later this year.

A total of £470m has been invested in Lossiemouth to futureproof Quick Reaction Alert and Maritime Patrol operations.

The first two E-7 Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft are currently undergoing modification in Birmingham ahead of their

, due 2023 NEXT UP: Wedgetail

DEBUT: First P-8

CLOUD 9: Final P-8 Poseidon landed at Lossiemouth this month

lands in 2020

expected delivery in 2023. Both Poseidon and Wedgetail are military derivatives of Boeing’s Next-Generation 737.

Boeing UK managing director Anna Keeling said: “As a trusted

partner to the RAF, we will continue to provide long-term support for the aircraft and help train the crews who fly them.”

Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading

provider of commercial airplanes, defence, space and security systems, and global services with a British workforce of more than 2,500 employees and spends £2 billion a year in the UK.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P10

News

Vets face Civvie St jobs fight

PROUD TO SERVE: But more than half of Forces veterans may struggle to find steady jobs with prospects after leaving the military

Simon Mander UK VETERANS face challenges finding longer-term stable careers in Civvy Street that enable them to reach their full potential, according to a survey.

Although most former Services personnel manage to stay in work, they are often forced to switch jobs and face periods of unemployment.

The report, commissioned by Forces in Mind Trust, found that less than half those asked felt that they found the ‘right job’ which gave them satisfaction or provided them with opportunities to progress.

It says women, ethnic minorities, those who are wounded, injured and sick, and older Service leavers are less likely to get good jobs.

Forces Employment Charity chief executive Alistair Halliday said: “This report breaks new ground by exploring what long-term employment looks like for Service leavers, beyond their first two years post-discharge.

“The research reveals that whilst veterans regard the military as having provided them with highly sought-after ‘soft skills’, such as leadership and teamwork, there appears to be a gap in transferable skills to ready them for the business world.”

Forces in Mind Trust chief executive Mike Ellicock said: “Successful employment is not just about finding a job; we must look beyond the traditional two-year point, and beyond an approach that saw being employed as success, full stop.”

The report recommends Service leavers get access to civilian work placements,

JUST THE JOB: Ex-military applicants often switch careers after leaving Services

mandatory transition support and training in commercial, marketing, and financial skills.

Researchers are also calling for improved data collection on the employment outcomes of veterans.

Unrealistic expectations of the jobs market, a lack of transferable skills and an inability to adapt were all found to reduce the chances of a successful transition to civvy street.

Previous research carried out by the Forces in Mind Trust over the last five years revealed that nearly one fifth of firms admitted they were unlikely to hire exmilitary applicants over concerns they do not have the right skills and will struggle to fit in to the civilian workplace.

QinetiQ senior occupational psychologist Natalie Fisher, who carried out the survey, said: “Whilst many ex-Service personnel maintain employment longer-term it is clear that not all find the ‘right job’ for them or feel successful.”

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P13

News

Falklands call

Photo of the week A 99 Sqn C-17 Globemaster comes into land at RAF Brize Norton during a training flight.Crews practised takeoff and landing procedures during the exercise at the Oxfordshire station.

PHOTO: CPL LEE MATTHEWS

RAF NEWS will be marking the 40th anniversary of the Falklands conflict.

If you served with the RAF during the mission to reclaim the islands we would like to talk to you about your experiences.

Email editor@rafnews.co.uk including your phone number.

Rocket man

Typhoon pilot Stanny in Jumbo space shot RAF TYPHOON pilot Flt Lt Matthew Stannard piloted a modified jumbo jet as Richard Branson’s Virgin Orbit project launched a rocket carrying commercial satellites into space.

The aviator piloted the 747, dubbed Cosmic Girl, at 35,000ft over the Pacific as he unleashed the rocket.

To execute the launch Flt Lt Stannard performed a skilled banking manoeuvre as the 21m Launcher One rocket, carrying seven satellites, was fired from under the left wing.

Speaking after taking up the job with Virgin, Flt Lt Stannard said: “I’ve flown Tornado and Typhoon in the RAF but being involved in Virgin Orbit’s space programme is a truly unique opportunity.

“This programme is pushing the boundaries of our understanding of space so it’s a real privilege to be part of it and I’m looking forward to bringing the skills and knowledge I gain back to the RAF.” The UK combat veteran joined the California-based space

programme on secondment from the RAF in 2019.

The seasoned RAF man clocked up more than 1,000 flying hours during combat tours and trained at the USA’s Naval Test Pilot School before transferring to Typhoon.

He added: “I’ve flown jets in the Royal Air Force and really it is the same thing. I’ve got to get something to the right place at the right time.

“There are often things that happen and you’ve got to make decisions on the way. It is uncannily similair to what I do in the Air Force.

“I am very lucky I get to do things with aeroplanes while at the same time I am involved with space. I am spanning two areas that I love to be involved in, so I am really privileged in that respect.

Virgin Orbit chief operating officer Tony Gingiss said: “In addition to his world-class piloting skills. Stanny’s been deeply involved in all of our planning .”

MISSION: Combat pilot Flt Lt Matthew Stannard piloted modified 747 as Virgin Orbit rocket launched

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P15

News KENYA: RAF team delivers shirts to pupils at Lizpal School in Nairobi (left) and hopes to raise funds with a trek on Everest this March

Charity team eyes Everest with global sports aid bid Staff Reporter A FOOTBALL-BASED charity group at RAF Shawbury has a mountain to climb as it plans humanitarian missions around the world.

The Aid through Football group hopes to visit Nepal in March to complete the gruelling Everest Base Camp Trek whilst delivering kit donated by clubs and people in the UK to welfare homes and schools operated by

Poster boy’s medals set to net £120,000 Simon Mander MEDALS WON by a Battle of Britain hero who became a recruitment poster boy for the RAF are expected to fetch up to £120,000 when sold this month.

The collection includes a DFC and bar and an AFC awarded to Hurricane and Spitfire pilot Wg Cdr Peter Lawrence Parrott, who nearly achieved ace-in-a-day status during his first aerial combats in May 1940.

Aged just 19, he went on to fly with 607 (County of Durham) Sqn during the Battle of France, and with 145 Squadron over the beaches of Dunkirk.

He was shot up in combat with a Heinkel III over Dunkirk, managing to limp home across the Channel and crash land in a field on the south coast.

Parrott (right) went on to distinguish himself during the Battle of Britain, shooting down two enemy aircraft in August.

He recounted: “Our first view of the convoy near St Catherine’s Point was of Ju 87s in their bombing dives.

“Above the Ju 87s were the escorting Bf 109s and to the south east were two more large formations of enemy aircraft approaching the convoy. It was a formidable sight.

“I had already taken part in the battle for France, and patrolled over Dunkirk during the evacuation, but I had never before seen so many aircraft in the sky at once.”

Parrott’s photograph, taken during the Battle of France, was used on a recruiting poster – providing one of the iconic RAF images of WWII (opposite).

He was shot down serving with 605 (County of Warwick) Squadron in December 1940.

He said: “Looking down, the ground seemed to be coming up remarkably quickly.

“I was swinging from side to side but had no time to try pulling the shrouds to stop the swing before I slammed into the ground, on about the third downward swing, falling on my right leg and shoulder.

“I felt half stunned. I opened my eyes and found I was lying on the grass. I was at this time not sure whether I was still in this world or had already passed on to the next. I did not really care much either way.”

Parrott flew Spitfires over Sicily and Italy and commanded 43 and 72 (Basutoland) Squadrons.

After the war he was a test pilot and flew early Vampire and Meteor jets.

He completed his RAF service in 1965 and worked for Court Line, flying members of the Libyan royal family and government on tours of the Middle East.

During the 1972 ArabIsraeli war, Parrott flew, at Colonel Gaddafi’s behest, to Uganda to collect Idi Amin, whom he was to take to Khartoum to act as the mediator in the conflict.

On landing the Learjet at Entebbe, Parrott and his co-pilot found themselves arrested and interrogated as suspected mercenaries, before Amin realised who they were.

In 1973, Parrott returned to Britain to work as a training adviser until his retirement in 1983.

His eight medals are to be sold at auction by Dix Noonan Webb.

the Gurkha Welfare Trust.

Later in the year, the team is planning a smaller visit to Zimbabwe to look at a possible partner school and a full delivery trip to Kenya in late 2022 or early 2023.

In 2019, the appeal distributed 27,400 items including more than 6,700 football shirts to children in Belarus affected by the Chernobyl disaster, refugee camps on the Syrian border with Turkey and Kenya.

STRATEGIC OUTPOST: St Kilda in Hebrides is a World Heritage site

Kilda upgrade DEFENCE FACILITIES on the remote island of St Kilda in the Hebrides are to get a £40 million makeover.

The overhaul by contractor QinetiQ will include upgrades to tracking radar and telemetry equipment used by the UK and its international partners.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2021 P16

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50 50

SAR squadron’s anniversary

HE RAF’s last remaining Search and Rescue unit has marked the unique feat of 50 years of non-stop flying operations.

Since 1972, Cyprus-based 84 Squadron has fought wildfires large enough to be visible from space, rescued downed aircrew, and even delivered babies on board their helicopters.

“We are the most senior Rotary Wing Squadron in the Air Force and this momentous milestone is one that no other RAF rotary flying squadron has ever achieved before,” said Officer Commanding, Squadron Leader Jean-Marc David.

In half a century of missions the squadron has saved British and Cypriot lives and last year its Griffin HAR2 Bell helicopters rescued five people and flew more than 75 hours on firefighting missions dropping 320 tonnes of water on an inferno described as Cyprus’s worst national disaster since 1974.

It’s the latest achievement by a unit that has never been home since departing the UK for the Western Front as a fighter squadron in September 1917. But it could be one of the last.

The Griffin has proved its value on life-saving search and rescue and firefighting missions on the UK’s Mediterranean base.

The squadron could be eyeing a new ride when the veteran Bell helicopter finally retires from service. Any replacement would be the unit’s fourth SAR helicopter, mirroring the situation in 1981 when the Wessex replaced the Whirlwind, operated by 84 Sqn since it was founded by an amalgamation of 230 Sqn and 1563 Flt in 1972.

Then there were more than 100 military personnel and multiple aircraft on the wing, now 84 Sqn comprises 18 aircrew, two support staff, 10 contracted engineers and three aircraft.

But it still provides full daytime rescue cover 365 days a year, and, equipped with night vision goggles, has a nighttime overland winching capability the Cypriots do not.

Rear Crew Leader and Sqn WO MAcr David Wray said: “84 Sqn’s value isn’t measured in flying hours or financial cost; it is measured in the sincere gratitude of those we rescue and of those families of the personnel we recover.”

Operations Officer Andy Matthews added: “The assistance the squadron provides to the Cypriot authorities is vital and hugely appreciated.”

Draken Chief Engineer Dave Hope said: “Draken Europe has strived to support 84 Sqn operations despite the issues Covid-19 and Brexit have introduced. It is disappointing that our association will cease in April 2023, but we look forward to our remaining time on this joint operation.”

84 Sqn’s half century of res

LIFE-SAVERS: Some of the small 84 Sqn team and support staff

SALT LAKE: Fighting Cyprus blaze PHOTO: Neil Angus

RAF AKROTIRI CO: Gp Capt Nikki Thomas

Whirlwinds In its early days, the 84 Sqn Whirlwinds rescued Archbishop Makarios from a coup in Nicosia during Operation Skylark. In another mission they saved 125 passengers from a sinking Turkish ferry in a Force Eight gale. And one of the most

miraculous rescues saw it searching for two soldiers missing in the water near Larnaca.

“The first was found almost i m m e d i a t e l y, the second however, was found nine hours later swimming

vigorously towards Lebanon in a million to one chance. The squadron also delivered its first baby born in the back of the aircraft, 1,000ft above Limassol,” said Sqn Ldr David.

By 1981, the new 84 Sqn Wessexes were launching missions across the island.

“The increase in capability quickly became apparent during

the rescue of a Canberra crew who – after ejection – spent only three minutes in the water and were in hospital beds 11 minutes after pulling the handle,” said Sqn Ldr David.

In 1983, the Sqn was the first unit to deploy to Beirut during the Lebanon crisis flying 27 sorties and recovering British Embassy staff back to Cyprus.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P17

By Simon Mander

not out not out out

FLYPAST: 84 Sqn Griffins PHOTO: CPL WILL DRUMMEE

scues and saving lives

TRAINING: 84 Sq n crew practise collec ting water from the Med in Bambi bucke ts

evac s part in a med w members take O: CPL PHIL DYE cre n Sq 84 D: OT PH HELPING HAN S Enterprise exercise with HM

to douse island wild

fires

PHOTO: CPL PHIL DYE

YOUNG FAN: Watching the parade at Akrotiri

84 SQUADRON CHIEF: Sqn Ldr Jean-Marc David

The next year, 84 Sqn introduced its aerial firefighting capability.

Griffin The arrival of the Griffin in 2003 came with the first woman to command an RAF flying squadron, Sqn Ldr Nicky Smith.

By 2006, the squadron had carried out its first night winching rescue from a vessel in distress. In 2009 when a ship sank 15 miles from Syria the squadron rescued

the 25 crew members and in 2010 it deployed to Israel for four days to fight fires.

Other notable rescues include flying to a poison gas leak onboard an oil rig by night 110nmi south of Cyprus to save injured workers.

In 2016, the squadron became the last UK Search and Rescue flying unit in Defence. It remains the only current RAF squadron

to have been based overseas for its entire service history, and it trains regularly with the Cypriot emergency services.

To mark its 50th the unit paraded the squadron standard in front of Akrotiri Station Commander, Group Captain

Nikki Thomas and an audience that included veterans from the 84 Squadron Association.

“During its illustrious history the squadron has rescued and saved countless lives and will continue to do so in the finest traditions of RAF Search and Rescue,” said Sqn Ldr David.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P19 n Please note letters must be a MAXIMUM of 300 words and any accompanying pictures sent as attached, hi-res JPEG files

Post: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP14 4UE Email: editor@rafnews.co.uk

Where are the RAF?

Letters

You’re miles out on QE

WHEN I opened RAF News 1526 (December 17), I thought that I had received Navy News by mistake. The photos of HMS Queen Elizabeth returning to port show no evidence of RAF personnel from RAF Marham being on board, despite making up the greater proportion of the F-35 support element.

Were they hidden away? I know that it’s tradition for the Navy to line the decks on return to port but they could have at least shown some of our airmen (sorry, aviators). Please remind their Lordships that 617 is an RAF Squadron.

Len Algar Downham Market

HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH: 50,000-mile deployment

I READ with interest the article in RAF News 1526 about the return of HMS Queen Elizabeth after a global seven-month maiden deployment.

I was intrigued to note it reported that she sailed a total of 500,000 miles. If she sailed continuously at 20kts for 24 hours a day it would take three years to cover half a million miles.

That would also be the equivalent of going to the moon and back. I thought HMS Queen Elizabeth was a warship, not a spaceship!

Ted Bates THE ARTICLE ‘QE carrier returns after sevenmonth global tour’ on page 2 of RAF News 1526 (December 17) opens with a statement that the HMS QE had returned to Portsmouth ‘after a global, sevenmonth, 500,000-mile global deployment’. That surely is a typo or misprint, yes? 50,00 perhaps?

Could you clarify for me please?

Hon Gp Capt Paul Newman 601 (County of London) Sqn, RAuxAF EDITOR’S NOTE Thank you to our readers who pointed out that the story should have read ‘a global, seven-month, 50,000-mile maiden deployment’ not 500,000 miles.

We are happy to correct this error.

Drone hom

Bomber Harris is not treated fairly

Missing hound Ju no heartbroken RAF is reunited w family after bein spotted by Search and Rescue UA

Simon Man

I REFER to the article on p9 of RAF News 1527 (January 14), about the Bomber Mastermind.

I strongly protest that it is most unfortunate to perpetuate the mythology that Bomber Command developed saturation bombing that completely demolished civilian quarters; in tandem with American precision attacks on specific military and industrial sites. Nothing could be further from the reality.

The archive evidence is absolutely clear that the actual bombfall in Europe from RAF and USAAF

bombers was indistinguishable in terms of distribution around the intended targets. Much hinged on the expected performance of the Norden bombsight used by the USAAF and the demonstrated accuracy during trials in the US. That simply did not travel across to Europe because of the lack of target visibility during bomb runs. It did not travel to Japan either for the same reason. That became very clear to General LeMay with the B-29s and led to the delivery of fire storming of Japanese cities with napalm, in clear conflict with

Marking 130 years of SSAFA nursing SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has had many memorable anniversaries since Major James Gildea founded the-then Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Families Association in 1885.

One anniversary that SSAFA is particularly proud to celebrate takes place in 2022.

This year sees the 130th anniversary of the inauguration of SSAFA nurses – then called the Alexandra Nurses. Established in 1892, they provided professional care to the wives and families of soldiers and sailors in garrison and seaport towns across the world.

Such was their success that the UK’s National Health Service adopted the Alexandra Nurses’ practices for the District Nursing Service when it was set up in 1948.

SSAFA nurses are still at work today as part of our Community Health Care Team. These dedicated professionals provide firstclass nursing and midwifery services to British Armed Forces personnel and

Win Finest Hour Gin

their families posted overseas in Cyprus, SHAPE, Gibraltar, Brunei, Kenya, and BATUS in Canada.

To mark the 130th anniversary of this service, I am inviting RAF News readers to tell us about their family connection to our SSAFA nurses. It might be your mother or grandmother, an aunt or a sister, or a male relative. It could even be you.

Please get in touch to share your recollections and photographs of SSAFA nurses throughout the years, so we can celebrate these stories as part of the 130th anniversary.

Please send your stories and photographs to ssafa.sisters@ssafa.org.uk or by post to the address below with the envelope marked SSAFA Nursing 130 by March 30, 2022.

Sir Andrew Gregory, CEO of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity Queen Elizabeth House 4 St Dunstan’s Hill London APPEAL: Sir Andrew EC3R 8AD

der “After 24 hours socia l med A SEARCH and rescue dog going absolutely crazy with ia was belonging to an appeals to help find Juno ,” said WO Danks. that vanished on RAF engineer “I was cont been reunited a family walk has and ITV and acted by both the BBC spent Christmas after being trackwith her owners monitorin Day g med ed Female Germ by a drone. a sighting of her. ia feeds hoping for ” pointer Juno, whoan shorthaired After putting up is trained to posters asking help police find for help at vuln local erable people, sparked a mass appearing on local businesses and news bulletins on after disappearingive hunt herself Boxing Day, reeds in Fritton into a bed of tall by 85 searc WO Danks was joined Woods, near Grea hers and a Red RETRIEVE Yarmouth. t support vehic Cros Juno is brought le on December 27. s after six-dayRS: “I saw her go in, ordeal “She was found whis

by Paul Wesley tled and from Suffo called her, but she com which was very never came back who was lk Search and Rescue the plete mystery how s incredibly obedientunusual as she’s first time flying his drone for the daug island but WO Da over an area I’ hters Bella, 11, and being a trained search and rescu n searched twice,” d already old Rosalyn were delig Warrant Officer e dog,” said owner said WO her hom hted Ian Danks. e.

After scouring Danks.

“They both burs the area “He himself on Dece spott ed we got her back,” t into tea Juno’s hi-vis jacke he said. was joined by fellomber 21, he t “Like many othe and, as he brought of the Norfolk w members r fami and Suffolk the drone down have been affected by Co search and rescu she looked up , had been looking forward to the next day using e team at family Chri a drone the camera.” stmas.” equipped with But a therm the A al imaging camera.

Search and Juno drama won’t sto and Rescue As news of boat for the continuing to vo picked her up from Norfolk branch the drama went natio National Sear the small islan they were joine nwide d Association. ch and Rescu on which she volunteers from d by “I feel incredibly Kent, found. Juno lost was Cambridgeshire lucky in weight durin 5kgs to work for the charity whicto b Buckinghamshire. and g her possible h almost six-day orde beca al. get from Hon use of the supp It ington station an remains a Force Protectio n Force,” he sai

the Presidential direction Star that civilians were not to be letter Valkyries l attacked.

Sim on Mander Just one example of the reality in Europe can be found within the RAF Historical Society Bracknell Paper No.4, Reaping the Whirlwind, dated March 26, Bomber mastermind 1993. Section 5 of that Paper was remembered Staff Reporter provided by Dr Richard Hallion on behalf of the USAAF. He stated that: “We are tremendously in debt to Britain for the bombing results achieved with radar bombing, which were far superior to those obtained visually from the Norden bombsight. That bombsight was indeed loudly heralded before forget that Bomber Command also the war as able to do remarkable delivered precision bombing when things, but was in Europe critically the visibility allowed. Precision is a dependent on one thing totally different capability in short supply – namely today. However, enough good weather and clear said for the moment. visibility. We were happy One of the better in WWII to accept a descriptions of the WWII combined circular error probability bombing offensive from of 3,300ft with a 2,000lb one of the 8th USAAF bomb dropped from a commanders was that the B-17.”

RAF delivered precision What was so equally bombing of area targets; clear was the huge public and the USAAF relations benefit gained by the USAAF in their consistent delivered area bombing of claim to deliver precision bombing, precision targets. whereas Sir Arthur Harris [above] John Stubbington Wg Cdr spoke the blunt truth. Please never (Ret’d)

THE ARRIVAL of the US Air For first four European generated a multbased F-35As upgrade of RAF Lakei-million-pou nheath.

It’s estimated million worth that around £ will be generatedof investme RAF HISTORY: Daugh by work Jacqueline Assheton ter upgr ade aircraft father’s wartime office. in her maintenance hangaprons and bui with Air Marshal AndyInset left, ars, training an Turner storage areas.

PHOTOS: SAC RYAN MURRAY The Suffolk base of the USAF’s 48th , already hom will become the Fighter Wing international site first permanen of American F-35for two squadron As as well as it Harris becam existing F-15s.

RELATIVES OF in-chief of Bome commanderThe 495th Figh ber Command Sir Arthur ‘Bom Air Chief Marshal in February ter Squadron nicknamed ber’ Harris visite 1942 and deve ‘Valk his preserved wart d saturation bom yries’ loped was reactivated bing by clouds has now been conv ime office that bombers of have 60 persoin October and will nnel. museum commemerted into a small completelyover individual cities that The Defe orating his RAF demolished civili career. quarters. an Organisation nce Infrastructure awarded contracts Grandson Thom Con for duct the ed upgrade to a joint in tandem and daughter Jacqu as Assheton American venture precision attac with of Kier and VolkerFit eline Assheton joined Deputy ks on Nove zpatrick in specific milit Marshal AndrewCommander Air it was inten ary and industrial sites beginmber 2018, with construction ning ded Turner in the historic room and ability of theto break the will between 500in July 2019 employing at Air Com Germ and mand to cont 600 an people where Harris initia inue DIO’s programm people daily. mass raids on Nazi ted and directed September the war. He retired in Rix e said: “The arriv director Steve 1945 and the follo Germany. al of the wing year was made Mars hal of the RAF. US F-35 at RAF Lakenheath first is an exciting point for all involved at

THE WRITER of our star letter wins a bottle of award-winning Finest Hour Gin from the Dartmouth Distillery. Made using the finest botanicals from around the world and locally sourced herbs, flowers and fruit from the Calancombe Estate in Devon, Finest Hour was launched as a tribute to the heroes of the Battle of Britain. Winners must be aged 18 or over. Go to dartmouth-gin.com

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P21

Competition

Look great, like Kate

Win!

W

HEN THE Duchess of Cambridge was photographed on a visit to RAF Brize Norton last September carrying a superstylish Mini Holly handbag from top brand Tusting, the ‘Kate effect’ went into overdrive.

Orders for the much-coveted bag flooded in to the longstanding family firm that specialises in handcrafted leather goods – to such an extent that it temporarily ran out of the hide used to create the Mini Holly in the Duchess’s chosen taupe colour.

Now we are offering one lucky RAF News reader the chance to win the delightful Mini Holly in their choice of the six colours Tusting offers.

And another lucky reader will win an iconic Tusting Medium Explorer holdall.

Based in the village of Lavendon, Buckinghamshire, Tusting began life as a leather tannery in the 1870s. A pivotal figure in the history was Jack Tusting, the third of the five generations (so far) to guide this dynasty. Jack grew up helping out in his grandfather’s tannery but the start of World War I changed everything and, joining up aged just 17, Jack was later commissioned as a Flying Officer and flew aircraft including the BE2 and RE8 biplanes.

Pilot Jack Tusting Gillian Tusting, the company’s Head of Brand, said: “Jack had quite a number of scrapes including rescuing student pilots who had landed in the wrong places. He found one had force-landed into a wadi [ravine], and to extricate the plane he needed to fix the aileron cabling. He achieved this using his handkerchief, then proceeded to fly out of the wadi back to the airfield.

Another time, he apparently took off with an engine on full power but it wouldn’t throttle back and so he ended up climbing to 10 or 12,000ft before getting control again, but he still managed to land safely.”

The indomitable Jack was on active service in Mesapotamia when his grandfather Charles passed away. Charles’ second wife

Win £300 luxury bag made a hit by Duchess or choose £450 holdall

quietly sold off the tannery, leaving the young Jack shocked to discover the family business was gone when he returned from the war in 1919.

But it was his life-long dream to run a tannery in the village where he had grown up, so he set up his own state-of-the-art facility and made sure the Tusting name would not be forgotten.

The luxury label specialises in beautiful bags and leather goods for work, play and travel, meticulously

crafted by its team of experts at its Lavendon workshop, in the heart of the English countryside. Five generations of experience go into each piece, blending timeless style with contemporary flair.

The top-handled Mini Holly is a pretty and curvaceous 1950s-inspired bag that comes in six colours: claret, red atlantic, sage, sky blue, tan and, of course, taupe.

It retails at £295. With a detachable shoulder strap, the bag can be carried cross-body or over the shoulder as well as looking simply stunning when just held by hand.

Explorer holdall

JACK TUSTING in pith helmet, smoking a cigarette, standing next to an RFC aircraft, probably around 1918. The Tusting family

are keen to know the exact aircraft type in the picture. If you can help identify it please email: tracey. allen@rafnews.co.uk

Crafted from smooth and glossy premium, full-grain leather and fully lined in microsuede, this exquisite small bag has an internal slip pocket, sidepoppers and turn-lock fastening.

The spacious and versatile fabric and leather Explorer bags come in three sizes – small, medium (pictured above) and large. It is available in olive canvas with a tan trim, safari canvas with the ‘Aztec’ trim or the Merlot

PREFER A HOLDALL? If you don’t fancy the Mini Holly, you could have an Explorer holdall

‘Superlight’ Nylon twill with a black trim, shown here. These hard-wearing travel bags are both superbly useful and eyecatchingly handsome.

For your chance to win either the Tusting Mini Holly or the Tusting Medium Explorer (which retails at £450), answer this question correctly: How old was Jack Tusting when he joined the Royal Flying Corps?

Send your entry, marked Tusting bags competition, to:

competitions@rafnews.co.uk to arrive by February 11, 2021.

By entering you agree to your email details being shared with Tusting for marketing purposes.

Remember to mark on your entry whether you prefer to win the Mini Holly – state which colour – or the Explorer – again, state which colourway, and please include your full postal address with your entry.

See the website: tusting.co.uk to view the company’s full range of high-quality products – from coin purses and keyrings to its classic Weekender holdall.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P23

Flt Lt Peter Spindler DFC with Bar Obituary HONOURED: Spindler (2nd left) won the DFC with Bar. He is pictured here with 550 Sqn Lancaster crew and Aussie flight commander Edgar Pickles (1st left)

Nav twice won DFC Halifax and Lanc raids on V-2 rocket test site and marshalling yards set back Nazis

F

LIGHT LIEUTENANT Peter Spindler, who has died aged 99, was a navigator in Bomber Command who flew operations in the Halifax and Lancaster and was twice awarded the DFC. Too young to join the RAF to fly, he spent a year serving with the Wantage Home Guard, becoming a Lance Corporal. He then joined the RAF in June 1941 and trained as a navigator in Canada under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.

After returning to Britain a year later, he initially converted to the twin-engine Whitley bomber. His unit was attached to Coastal Command for six weeks and Spindler flew five anti-submarine patrols over the Atlantic. He then transferred to the Halifax and in June 1943 joined 51 Squadron based at Snaith in Yorkshire. Spindler and his allsergeant crew had arrived on the squadron at the height of the Battle of the Ruhr.

On their first operational sortie, the crew had attacked the target at Mulheim when they were intercepted by a German night fighter, which the two gunners managed to beat off.

Over the next few weeks, they bombed other major industrial cities.

On August 12 they took off to attack Milan. An engine failed and the Halifax was unable to climb above the Alps so the bombs had to be jettisoned before the aircraft flew

back to base on three engines.

On the night of August 17, 1943, Bomber Command sent a large force of heavy bombers to attack the German research and testing establishment at Peenemunde on the Baltic Coast, where the V-1 and V-2 rockets and missiles were being tested. Spindler and his Halifax crew of 51 Sqn were flying their 12th operation when they headed out over Denmark to the Baltic, before setting course for the target under the direction of a Master Bomber of the Pathfinder Force.

The Halifax squadrons were the first of 560 bombers to attack and they bombed from the unusually low height of 7,000 feet.

The initial ‘marking’ was too far south, but the Master Bomber gave corrections and Spindler and his crew dropped their bombs on their briefed target before returning safely to their base in Yorkshire.

The raid was successful, and it was estimated that the V-2 development programme had been delayed by at least six weeks. Losses amongst the later-arriving bombers were high, with 40 being lost.

A

fter the Peenemunde attack, Spindler and his crew flew on the first raid of the preliminary phase of the Battle of Berlin, returning to the ‘Big City’ a week later.

In October he was commissioned before completing his first tour of 27 operations

with an attack against the rail marshalling yards at Cannes. A few weeks later he was awarded the DFC. After a period as an instructor, he returned to operations in December 1944, this time on the Lancaster with 550 Squadron based in Lincolnshire. He flew with the Australian flight commander Edgar Pickles.

At the time, Bomber Command was concentrating on attacks against the German

“

At all times he has shown courage, skill and devotion to duty and has set an example to all

”

railway system and the synthetic oil plants.

Spindler’s first target was the railyards at Koblenz. On Christmas Eve he attacked the marshalling yards at Cologne and on New Year’s Eve the target was the rail complex at Osterfeld.

The synthetic oil plants at Leuna, Politz and Lutzendorf were attacked and in midFebruary Bomber Command turned its attention to the cities in the east of Germany

as Soviet forces closed in from the east.

Spindler’s crew flew on the raids in February that destroyed Dresden and Chemnitz and, a few days later, Pforzheim was the target.

With the war drawing to a close, Spindler dropped bombs on the Blohm & Voss shipyard in Hamburg, and on April 18 he flew on the raid that destroyed the island fortress of Heligoland after the civilian population had been evacuated. It was his 50th operation. Still only 22 years old, he was awarded a Bar to his DFC. The citation concluded: “At all times he has shown courage, skill and devotion to duty and has set an example to all.”

H

e left 550 Squadron in May 1945 and spent the next 12 months as an instructor at bomber training units before completing a specialist navigation course. He was released from the RAF in June 1946.

He identified the raid on Peenemunde, his first trip to Berlin, when 55 aircraft were lost, the attack on Dresden, and the February 1945 operation to Pforzheim, when the Master Bomber was awarded the Victoria Cross, as his most memorable.

In 2012 he was reunited with his Australian pilot, Edgar Pickles, who returned to Britain again in 2018 when the two friends pored through scrapbooks of the time they had flown together 72 years earlier.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P25

Audi e-tron Sportback Vorsprung 55 Quattro

TIM MORRIS Motoring Correspondent A FEW editions ago I reviewed Porsche’s first electric supercar and raved about its athletic poise.

The Taycan Turbo S can hit 60mph in 2.4 seconds and cover a quarter of a mile in under 11 seconds, so I stand by my verdict.

Honestly, thousands must lie awake at night thinking about owning one but, when all’s said and done, most people eventually buy with their heads and choose something else, usually an Audi.

In the electric vehicle (EV) market Audi’s contender is the e-tron. It comes in various guises, including a massively expensive GT version that firmly takes aim at the Taycan. At the other end of the scale is what most people want from an Audi, a car that’s practical to live with, reliable and well finished. The standard e-tron does that well.

It’s designed to target the SUV/crossover segment and is comparable to the similarly priced Jag iPace or the more expensive Tesla Model X. Then there’s the sweet spot between the two, the e-tron Sportback Vorsprung 55 Quattro, with a 0-62mph time of 5.7 seconds and an official range of 247 miles on a single charge.

It looked good set against the ancient architecture of Stratford Upon Avon too. Ingolstadt engineering, silently saving the planet and preserving Bardville for future generations. We then headed to Worcestershire to put the e-tron through its paces.

On the road EVs are usually rapid off the mark and the e-tron is no slouch, given its size, but therein lies its weakness.

The car’s sheer bulk means that it’s 0-60 time feels somewhat sluggish compared to its main rivals.

For example the entrylevel Jaguar I-Pace will hit 62mph from standstill in 4.8sec.

Once you’re on the move however the e-tron does what Audi is famous for, provides serene luxury for high speed cruising.

It tops out at 124mph and will cover 150 miles under real-world conditions.

Everything is where you expect it to be, apart from the paddle shifts that adjust the level of regenerative braking rather than changing gear, and the door mirrors, because there aren’t any. Instead you get futuristic cameras that provide a digital display in the door panels.

These are brilliant under most circumstances but they can be

Motoring

BIG on style

Audi e-tron Pros Bags of space Luxurious interior Silent and smooth Supple ride Cons Range not as good as rivals Not the fastest off the mark Fiddly infotainment system Not as much fun to drive as a Jag I-Pace Verdict The Audi e-tron is a bit pricey compared to standard SUVs but it’s one of the most comfortable large electric cars on the market. It’s upmarket inside, extremely quiet at high speed and more practical than a lot of direct rivals. The acceleration and range are slightly disappointing for the price. difficult to see with the sun at certain angles.

It feels like a regular Audi in almost every respect, but quieter and smoother.

You can firm things up for faster B roads by flicking it into Dynamic and it does quite well for its size.

Off-road it’s not bad either, gaining 35mm of extra ground clearance when needed thanks to its intelligent air suspension.

Inside The e-tron’s interior is impressive. Audi appears to have taken the cabin from a Q7, added a touch of Futurama and then streamlined it.

Our Sportback test car had five sharp display screens, two fitted in the centre console, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster behind

BIG BEAST: e-tron is smooth and quiet but that comes at a cost in terms of battery life, as well as a hefty price tag

the wheel and the ‘mirror’ cameras displayed in the doors. The menu system was logical and simple to understand.

There’s certainly plenty of space in the cabin and the driving position is great. Rear seat passengers have bags of space, with the exception of the middle seat occupant who may

find legroom slightly restricted.

The boot is massive and there’s an extra ‘frunk’ under the bonnet to house all your charging leads.

Negatives The e-tron’s biggest handicap is its weight, it’s positively titanic. It’s even heavier than the huge Tesla

Model X. It takes a lot of power to get it moving and it’s very difficult to cnserve battery life.

In the most economical mode power is reduced to the point where pulling out of junctions is way too sluggish for my liking. Then there’s the price. It’s not over £100k but it’s close – £96,035.

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Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P27

@rafnewssport

Sport

Email: sports@rafnews.co.uk

5 pages of RAF Sport start here RAF personnel meet sport's gold standard: p30-31

Early deficits are too much for Veterans to overcome FOOTBALL

THE VETERANS team conceded two early goals as they kicked off their 2022 campaign for IS glory.

Facing St Anne’s (Wirral) for the Over 50s at St George’s Park, it took the military men 20 minutes to find their feet and the net as Sgt Dougie Coull scored, smashing home following a corner.

They levelled in the 40th minute, again from a corner, when FS Warren Robinson’s shot looped up and over the opposition keeper.

St Anne’s retook the lead two minutes later, having unlocked the Vets' offside trap.

The visitors, who created the best of the chances in the second half, went further ahead after 53 minutes to make it 4-2.

Once again, the military men clawed the game back, but could only find the net once more in the 86th minute when a short corner

RAF Over 50s St Anne's FC (Wirral)

RAF Over 35s Shifnal FC

3 4

was played to Sgt Russ Edwards.

Edwards’ cross found Sgt Graham Pearce to slot home, but they couldn’t level, losing the game 4-3.

The Over 35s also went behind to a quick two-goal deficit against Shifnal FC in the second game of the weekend. A 21st-minute Sgt Johnny Watkin corner then saw the hosts pull a goal back, as Cpl Scott Lawrie headed home at the far post.

Chasing shadows for most of the game, the RAF men struggled to get the ball and if they did they gave it away too cheaply to build any lasting periods of possession.

Vets’ keeper Sgt Stuart Algar produced a stunning 25th-minute save to keep the score at 2-1, while Cpl Gaz Seddon was unlucky twice

with the Shifnal keeper at his best to keep him out before seeing another effort come back off a post.

Seddon was denied again minutes later, as it seemed the RAF team would not find a way through.

That changed after 52 minutes when a defensive slip-up allowed Watkin to curl in a magnificent effort to level the scores.

A series of substitutions followed, with the visitors retaking the lead in the 65th minutes before making it 4-2 a minute after that.

Sgt Craig Zenko pulled one back for the Vets, but they conceded two more goals in the closing period, with Shifnal making it 6-3 in the final minute for a chastening weekend for the RAF teams.

RUGBY LEAGUE

THERE was a first-round Challenge Cup exit for the Service’s rugby league men, losing 24-6 to Thornhill Trojans at a fog-bound Thornhill, West Yorkshire.

Despite the defeat, assistant coach Cpl Chris Davidson – making his last bow for the RAF – felt the scoreline was harsh.

He said: “We were never out of the game and handling mistakes gave them most of their points.”

3 6

Trailing 18-0 at the break to the National Conference League Premier Division team, AC Kieron Prescott ran three-quarters of the pitch to convert his own try for the RAF’s only score, after 55 minutes.

Davidson, who leaves the service in March, added: “They are a quality side, and our lads have only had a few days to prepare for this clash. I am certain with a bit more time together the result would have been much closer.”

BIG OCCASION: Cpl Lauren Impey, left and below, officiated at Women's FA Cup Final

Cpl joins top flight of women's football RAF FOOTBALL referee Cpl Lauren Impey is hoping her promotion to officiate in the Women’s Super League will inspires other personnel to follow her footsteps into the sport.

Cpl Impey, 31, said: “I will be the first female Armed Forces football referee to take charge of a top-flight FAWSL fixture. I hope my promotion will show current and future aviators that if they work hard, opportunities do exist for them to reach the highest level.”

Impey qualified as a referee in September 2015, but due to work demands in her role as a PTI did not officiate her first women’s game until November 2018.

Her involvement in football has not purely been on the officiating side of things either, following her return from America

on a soccer scholarship in 2011 she played for Leicester City women’s team.

She said: “Having achieved my MSc, I became part of the Leicester set-up until 2017, but this stopped just before I commenced my RAF phase 2 training (Physical Training Instructor).”

Impey’s performances throughout 2021 had seen her appointed to a UEFA International Tournament in November and the Women’s FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium last December.

A spokesman for the RAF FA said: “Promotion to Level 1W referee, the pinnacle of women’s football in England, caps off a fantastic season for Cpl Impey and the RAF FA would like to wish her the best of luck for the season ahead.”

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P28

Sport

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SKIING

MBE chases more medals

BROWNLEE: Represents Team GB

PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS: SAC Micky Atherton (front) with RSGC Instructor Nick Lewington

Daniel Abrahams

RAF PARA-ALPINE star and sportswoman of the year SAC Shona Brownlee is returning to action at this year’s Para Snow Sports World Championships in Norway.

The event for the new MBE is the first time the world championships of all Para sports have taken place at the same time in the same host city, this time Lillehammer.

Speaking to RAF News from Norway as she prepared for the championships, Brownlee said: “Representing Team GB at the championships is an amazing opportunity.

“It will be a steep learning curve out here, a massive step up from anything I’ve done previously, but it’s really great experience to be here racing against some of the best skiers in the world.”

Brownlee will race as part of the British sit-ski contingent, which also includes other Service personnel and veterans.

One of her teammates will be former RAF Gunner Weapons Technician and Paralympic gold medallist Jon-Allan Butterworth.

He will be making his debut as part of the GB snowboard team.

Butterworth stormed to gold at the Rio Games in 2016 as part of the Paralympic cycling squad in the C1-5 750m team sprint. He also won three silver medals at the 2012 London Games, before announcing his retirement in 2020.

His return to sport and snowboarding was announced in RAF News in September last year.

The championships – originally due to take place in February 2021 but rescheduled because of the pandemic – are the largest event to be held in Norway since the 1994 Paralympic Winter Olympics.

They were taking place as RAF News went to press.

Brownlee, having qualified, is awaiting selection news from Team GB for this year’s Beijing Para Winter Games, along with a green light from organisers for the event to go ahead.

HON ME HEAD, SON: Gunners trouble the Coningsby keeper, top COME FLY WITH ME: Coningsby player tries to keep his determined opponent at arm’s length, centre FORCE PROTECTION: Gunners take up defensive positions, below PHOTOS: STEVE LYMPANY

LAUNCH POINT: Cpl Nick Gauder with RSGC Instructor Sgt Ross Craney

SPIN TRAINING: SAC Danny Robertson climbs to 4,000ft with RSGC CFI Ian Gallacher in the back seat

LAST FLIGHT OF DAY: SAC Max Thompson with RSGC Instructor Sqn Ldr Alan Swan

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Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P29

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Flyers still hoping to be soaring over Alps this spring GLIDING

Daniel Abrahams

HIGH KEY: SAC(T) Luke Payne and RAF Shawbury Gliding Club CFI Ian Gallacher over RAF Cosford

THE SERVICE’S gliding fraternity have started the year in full flight, with plans for their April expedition still firmly on the horizon.

The association had to announce the cancellation of its proposed trip to Chile, due to Covid restrictions, but as RAFGSA executive committee member Flt Lt Luke Dale explained, it’s still all systems go for the flyers.

Dale said: “It was a great shame our Defence Engagement exchange visit to the Chilean Air Force Gliding Squadron had to be postponed due to the pandemic, but we’re hopeful the Chileans will come and visit the UK this summer.

“As for the Tri-Service Mountain Soaring Expedition to the French Alps, that is still planned for April/ May this year.”

The expedition will see up to 30 pilots and 12 aircraft detaching to the South of France for three weeks to enjoy the extremes of mountain flying.

The association closed out its year with two events, the first seeing members of the Cranwell Gliding Club gain ridge and wave soaring experience in Denbigh, Wales.

Dale said: “Lots of junior pilots got to experience ridge and wave flying for the first time. Christine Davies [a dental nurse at RAF Waddington] managed to fly with an experienced Denbigh-based pilot and flew up to 19,500ft.

“Flt Lt Sean Link achieved his ‘Gold Height’ award by flying solo up to a height of 12,500ft which was a net gain of over 3,000m (9,840ft) – the requirement for the award.”

The second event saw RAF

Chile trip called off but France expedition may yet be possible

FIRST UP: Fg Off Callum Love with RSGC Instructor Will Dean

Shawbury Gliding Club celebrate its first year.

Dale said: “From start to finish the season, despite being beset by Covid, has been a massive success.

The club now boasts 25 new members, with 32 flyers enjoying time in the air, with 50 days of sponsored Gliding Adventurous

Training through the Soaring Eagles Scheme.

“There were also courses held and run by Sgt Ross Craney (RAF Syerston), who tutored 13 students along with three Force Development activities being held.” n Visit: www.rafgsa.org for further details on RAF gliding.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P30

Sport

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We’ve hit GOLD WINTER SPORTS

With an RAF Olympian competing for Jamaica this year staff for Team GB, association chief tells RAF News of her

RAF STAR: During lockdown L/Cpl Stephens trained with Reds, and by pushing a Mini car

Daniel Abrahams THE NERVOUS wait for the green light for this year’s Winter Olympics may be ongoing, but the RAF ice sports association has already achieved its Games gold standard.

RAF Bobsleigh chair Sqn Ldr Heather Ratnage-Black spoke to RAF News as her association prepared to send the largest contingent of military personnel to an Olympic Games in its history.

Chf Tech Stu Benson (former Sochi Olympic bobsleigh bronze medallist), Chf Tech Mark Silva and Flt Lt Gavin Arnold will arrive at the Games in Beijing, China, as part of the Team GB backroom staff, with RatnageBlack supporting efforts from the UK having failed to get quarantine exemption forms finalised in time.

Silva will also be working with L/Cpl Shanwayne Stephens, who will be driving for the Jamaican bobsleigh team.

Ratnage-Black said: “I’m really excited about my role, but what I am most excited about is that every person involved has risen through the ranks of our sport to reach these Games. Each began their RAF ice sports career a as wide-eyed athlete.

“I think that scope for success comes in part because once their time on the ice is done, we engage out athletes in further roles.”

The sport itself has no recognised training qualifications but, as Ratnage-Black explains, that is not an issue for Service personnel.

“From an Air Force perspective, when we go on our various promotional management courses, where we get to develop our personal skills set, that helps us put that message across from a coaching stance,” she said.

“So we end up having people who become experienced in the sport and in leading and management – it’s perfect.”

The association’s ongoing efforts have resulted in years of dominance at Inter-Service level and continued amazing results on the international stage.

“Our personnel are at home at this level. All our races are run in line with international race protocols, so our athletes are exposed to it from day one,” said Ratnage-Black.

Once the sun has set on the Beijing Games, the sports chief is confident things will continue to be bright for her association.

“We are so well placed for the future,” she said.

“I just hope that seeing our personnel in Beijing inspires others to take up the sport.

If they do, we can help them achieve in it and go as far as they want to go.”

CHAIR: Squadron Leader Heather Ratnage-Black

TEAM GB STAFF: Chf Tech Mark Silva gives the thumbs up as he poses with Jamaican bobsleigh athletes and support workers

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Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 P31

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standard

‘Nothing beats snow beneath your boots’

r and another on the backroom r pride in Service bobsleigh stars

WORTH THE WAIT: Trip was delayed by two years because of the pandemic

RAF OLYMPIAN: Chf Tech Stu Benson with Sochi Games bronze

TEAM PLAYER: L/Cpl Stephens

PHOTOS: STEVE LYMPANY

RAF SNOWBOARDING chief Wg Cdr Nicola Duncan has told RAF News of her joy after the association managed to hold its training camp at Breckenridge, Colorado, after more than two years beset by Covid restrictions.

Global pandemics and lockdown had seen the Stateside trip put back twice from its original proposed date of March 2020, but perseverance and the ‘burning desire’ of the association’s athletes to feel fresh snow beneath their boards eventually paid off when the trip was undertaken by 22 boarders.

Duncan said: “While RAF Snowboarding has remained very active during the last year [see RAF News No 5127] with online fitness sessions, Skype meetings, coaching performance seminars and dome sessions when rules allowed, it really isn’t the same feeling as the crunch of fresh snow beneath your boots.

“With a robust Covid plan in place, full support from RAFWSAA, the Sports Directorate and sign off from AOC 22 Gp, we were delighted to finally set off for Colorado.”

The group featured a mixed range of abilities; while a handful of senior riders were present, most of the group were either new to the sport or development riders.

“Most of them we had selected

from some of the 2020/21 dome sessions, but we had never had the opportunity to put them through their paces on real snow,” said Duncan.

And the joy at finally hitting the snow was ‘unconfined despite the journey time.’

Duncan said: “The trip was long and arduous and after all that when we arrived the snowfall was the lowest for many years, but we did not care. Everyone was desperate to get out there.

“We had taken three coaches with us to lead the training sessions: Dave Crozier, our long time BASI level four trainer, whose focus was to coach the senior riders, and WO Scott Duncan and MACR Paul Granycome were there to focus on the development and grassroots riders. So, everyone was in very capable hands.”

The poor conditions meant slopestyle riding was cancelled, but there was still enough snow for performance riding and to practise flat land tricks.

Duncan said: “The coaches saw the lack of park riding as a different opportunity, taking all riders back to the snowboard central theme foundations, they focused on the sport’s building blocks and by the end of the trip things like carving and flat-land tricks were nailed and pretty much second nature.”

Inters get the go-ahead THIS year’s Inter-Service Alpine championships received the green light after being hit by French Covid regulations.

The event, which was cancelled last year, will run from January 29 to February 5.

The Alpine association has also planned a rescheduled RAF Championships in Austria.

Gp Capt Martin Cunningham, chairman RAFWSAA, said: “I am pleased to announce that the RAF will participate in a revised IS event.

“We’ve worked with our friends in the Navy and Army to prepare RAF teams from our existing ski,

snowboard, and Telemark squads.

“Training has been a real challenge this year, so the champs will be carefully managed with extra focus on safety. There’s also good news for grassroots skiers and boarders. We’ve finished plans for an Exercise Alpine Challenge 2.0.”

The event runs in Austria from March 5-12. All abilities are welcome, but instruction will focus on novice to intermediate level skiers and boarders (A-C category).

Administration orders will be available shortly. For details contact station Winter Sports OIC or look up the RAFWSAA Facebook group.

66p ISSN 0035-8614 04 >

9 770035 861037

Royal Air Force News Friday, January, 28, 2022 R'n'R 1

Win!

R'n'R

Win: WWII drama on DVD p8

Breaking Dad – Brad and Barney are back p4-5 Announcements P6-7

Puzzles P8

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 R'n'R 3

Travel withTimMorris

R'n'R

Hitler bombed their cathedral but locals remained unbowed

Coventry: City of Culture with fighting spirit

A

S WINTER tightens its grip, memories of the summer beach seem a lifetime away and we look for short breaks that inspire.

Coventry and the surrounding countryside fit the bill perfectly.

This year’s City of Culture has museums, galleries, theatres and historic buildings aplenty.

It’s modern enough in places to compete with any bustling city in the UK but then you stumble across bits of history that have been forgotten by time. Spon Street dates back to the 12th century for example, with half-timbered houses and cobbled streets that make even Stratford-Upon-Avon look modern. It’s an eye opening day out and if there’s one place in the UK that sums up the Great British spirit, it's Coventry.

The city's most famous building is its unique cathedral. In 1940 the Luftwaffe launched one of the biggest raids of WWII here and bombs rained down on the city centre. The cathedral was reduced to a ruin overnight and yet the people of the city refused to let it stop them holding services in the skeletal remains.

Then, in 1962, the ruin was incorporated into a contemporary new cathedral, designed by Basil Spence. Made of the same pink sandstone as the original, it embodies everything that makes the city unique, including its industrial heritage.

The cathedral’s unique car grille lectern isn’t, however, the biggest nod to the region’s motoring pedigree. For that you’ll need to head over to the Coventry Transport Museum, where you’ll find everything from a Penny Farthing to the fastest cars in the world. It’s a truly inspiring collection of more than 180 exhibits.

So the city itself is well worth a visit and there’s also plenty to do and see in the beautiful countryside nearby.

Stay: COOMBE Abbey Hotel is an impressive building. The exterior has been meticulously restored to maintain its original beauty but with a modern twist. Originally a grand abbey, built in the 12th century, the hotel boasts stone

GRAND: Coombe Abbey Hotel

edral, September 1941 ll tours ruins of Coventry Cath BOMBED: PM Winston Churchi

There are 119 bedrooms spread throughout the sprawling building, each with a different feel. We stayed in one of the many feature rooms, with a stunning 1920s-style bath/ shower set on a curtained platform, a gigantic bed and a 20s style en suite washroom.

COSY: Double room

archways, candlelit corridors and timeless bedrooms. It’s set in 500 acres of picturesque Capability Brown-designed gardens, standing at the head of a magnificent lake.

Crossing the threshold is like stepping through a tear in time because the first thing you see is a grand stone lectern, set ready for the Abbot to address his hushed congregation.

In the lobby you find fascinating details including confessional booths, a grand piano and suits of armour. You can soak up the atmosphere over a drink whilst sitting in one of the comfortable high back chairs or wander the grand hallways, admiring the opulent decor.

This is one of the most unusual

hotels in the world, a blend between old and new. It’s impressive during the day but at night it takes on a new feel, somehow eerily beautiful.

Wandering the silent corridors alone I felt a slight tingle of shock when I randomly discovered the stone sarcophagus of Abbot Geoffrey. He was murdered here in 1345 and is said to still walk the grounds. There are plenty of other ghost stories too if you fancy a haunted holiday during the dark winter nights.

Eat: DINNER is served in the Garden EERIE: Hotel at Room Restaurant, a night pleasant, airy space.

We enjoyed honey and whisky-glazed duck breast and slowcooked braised red wine marinated beef short rib. Both dishes were crammed full of flavour and cooked to perfection.

Breakfast is served in the same area and the conservatory roof allows your table to be bathed in morning light. You can choose a continental breakfast, enjoy a big Full English or order from the hot food selection. The Severn and Wye smoked haddock and poached egg caught my eye – a great way to start the day.

Service: STAFF were all very helpful and the service was of the standard that you’d expect from a hotel of this calibre.

While I was waiting at reception I could overhear the couple in front of me being particularly rude to the receptionist, demanding things in a completely entitled way. With admirable restraint she served them with a gracious smile and successfully resolved their trivial issue. She deserved a large pay rise in my book and every other member of staff that I met also went the extra mile.

Location: THE hotel is conveniently located within 10 miles of the M1 and the M6. Coventry is just 6 miles away, Stratford 9 and Birmingham 28, so it’s extremely well placed.

Cost: RATES vary throughout the year but a basic double in January/ February can be had from around £100-110 per night.

Negatives: THE car park is not part of the hotel itself and will cost you £5 per night. It does however have slowcharging posts for electric cars.

Relax: THERE are plenty of wonderful areas within the hotel grounds to relax and if that’s not enough then you’re sure to find the right spot in the 500 acres of gardens and woodland that form Coombe Country Park.

Adventure: COOMBE Abbey puts on a range of live shows and events at different times of the year. You can enjoy Medieval banquets, murder mysteries and live shows, to name but a few. If you’re travelling with children however, or if you’re a big kid yourself, then the real attraction here is a day out at Go Ape. The high wire complex is situated right next door and can be booked as part of your stay with the hotel.

The course is a challenging but very user-friendly experience and is perfect for the family.

There’s an epic Tarzan Swing, tree walks and a 200-metre dual zip wire section where two can race to the end. If that’s not enough excitement for you, you can also book Sundown Sessions where you can tackle the epic course in the dark. We loved it.

Check-out

coombeabbey.com visitcoventry.co.uk goape.co.uk/regions/midlands

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 R'n'R 4

R'n'R

Breakin making LAVOIX: Glad to be playing live again

LaVoix's wonder woman

T

HIS YEAR’S already shaping up to be a non-stop one for La Voix, the glamorous singer and comedy performer.

But, she says, she wouldn’t have it any other way – especially after the dark days of lockdown.

The dazzling diva has just set out, in her trademark sparkly stilettoes, on a national tour of her new show, modestly titled The Eighth Wonder of the World.

She’s also working on new products for her make-up line and looking forward to the UK debut of international dragsinging TV show Queen of the Universe, in which she competes for the title against a line-up of other top performers.

The show, from the producers of RuPaul’s Drag Race, is compered by Graham Norton with judges including Michelle Visage, and is due to be broadcast over here in the spring on Paramount Plus.

But she’s not giving away how far she got in the competition.

“You’ll have to watch to find out,” she teased.

She’s just back from doing 10 days of club shows in Miami.

She said: “I don’t really stop. I finished panto [Fairy Godmother in Cinderella at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre] and went straight into rehearsals for the new tour. It’s crazy but I love to be busy.

“I’ll never forget the first Zoom shows I did during lockdown, the weirdest thing for me was not hearing an audience laugh or clap, that was so strange, to be finishing a big song and

then there was just silence. You got used to doing endless social media, relying on comments and likes to know what was working.

“It was a really dark and strange time and hopefully something we will never witness again.

“When I went back to live theatre I was quite emotional, I almost could have cried when I heard that first applause and people were cheering. It was really moving.”

Until October, she’ll be hotfooting it around the country with her live band for a tour that promises all the elements she’s known for – that belting voice, rapier wit and, of course, gorgeous costumes, all made specially for her.

She said: “They are so beautiful and you just feel fabulous wearing them. I’m a big believer that if you get the costume right you almost get a round of applause before you open your mouth on stage.”

The flame-haired performer, well known for her ability to switch seamlessly between the vocal styles of divas such as Shirley Bassey, Judy Garland

and Cher, said she’s so happy to be singing with a live band again.

“All my years in the pubs and clubs using backing tracks are long behind me, thank goodness.

When you are doing those great Bassey, Garland or Adele songs with a live band playing them you realise how they’re meant to be heard.”

A former professional makeup artist, La Voix has worked with a host of big stars including Mickey Rooney, Cilla Black, Pamela Anderson and Ruby Wax, appeared in Ab Fab The Movie with Joanna Lumley and Jennifer Saunders, has twice entertained Princes William and Harry at their New Year’s Eve party and topped the bill at theatre legend Sir Ian McKellan’s 80th birthday bash.

She added: “I love taking my show on tour and, as well as being current of course, all the comedy material is regional – I like to make sure every venue, every town, gets its own show that can’t be repeated anywhere else.”

And this tour promises some extra-special audience participation.

She explained: “At each venue we’ll be on the lookout for an audience member who’ll be crowned, whether for their fashion style, their quirkiness or whatever, the ninth wonder of the world.”

So dig out your glad rags and head to a theatre near you for an unforgettable night of unique entertainment.

Tracey Allen n Go to: lavoix.co.uk for tour and ticket details.

Television pair's trips bring them even closer

T

HE WALSH boys are back in their RV for another epic adventure, as the father-and-son duo return for a new six-part series of the hit ITV show Bradley & Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad. On a mission to explore what Europe has to offer, they aim to experience extremes from the fiery heat of the Mediterranean to the icy tundras of the Arctic Circle.

Barney remains determined to push his dad to the absolute limit with more thrill-seeking activities, whilst also immersing themselves in the local culture, sharing cosy dinners in the RV and making memories to last a lifetime.

This series Brad and Barney began by diving straight in, quite literally, on the beautiful island of Vis in Croatia – where they did free diving down to a shipwreck.

From catamaran racing in Hungary, to taking in the Blue Danube and attempting escapology stunts, there’s never a dull moment, despite Bradley’s best attempts to put his feet up.

SWIS share a q mounta and yode

B

arney enthused about getting back in the RV with his father for the latest series. He said: “It’s amazing, being able to go on these trips with Dad and go to new places and have these experiences. And it’s a complete bonus that people love the show because it means we get to keep doing more. This is series four, which is awesome. It’s been such an adventure once again and it’s so unexpected that we are still here able to keep doing it.”

What does he think is the secret to the show’s success?

“I think it makes for great telly seeing Dad being pushed so far out of his comfort zone. Seeing his genuine reaction to something and to be saying, ‘No, no, I’m not doing it,’ but then having to conquer his own self-doubt and having a go at it. It’s brilliant to see that,” Barney explained.

Bradley said: “I think it’s

something you can watch with all the family, from grandparents to the kids, which is lovely. We’ve had some amazing feedback from people who have reconnected with members of their own family after watching the show and it’s inspired them to go on their own road trip together. How brilliant is that?”

Barney added: “For this series we started in Croatia

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 R'n'R 5

ng Dad proves the g of Barney & Brad FLYING HIGH: Brad and Barney experience an amazing zipwire ride at Rocco Massima in Southern Italy

SS BLISS: The pair quiet moment in the ains in Switzerland, Brad dressed for elling, inset below

to recreate one of 007 James Bond's I SPY TROUBLE AHEAD: A nervous Brad about in Switzerland, while a worried Barney iconic stunts, by bungee jumping off the Contra Dam looks on NO-SO-EASY RIDER: Brad struggles to learn motocross in Slovenia

and we end up in the Arctic circle, as far up as you can possibly go. We went to Hungary, Poland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark on the way. I think this is the most epic journey we have done so far in terms of the route.”

At one point the duo got snowed in and couldn’t get the RV out. Bradley said: “Barney hates the cold – it’s the one thing he doesn’t like.

So I got my own back a bit there because I don’t mind it. A small

victory! Although jumping into a river in Norway – it was honestly colder than the water in Iceland when we filmed the Christmas special. It was so cold it felt like being burnt!”

T

he son revealed that, as in previous series, he continued to keep the planned high adrenaline activities secret from his father.

Barney said: “I try to come up with ideas with the producers and we keep pushing it further. It genuinely inspires me to watch Dad

rise to the challenge, however much he doesn’t want to do something.

We try to keep him in the dark about all the activities until we arrive there because we know his reaction is going to be priceless when he realises what’s about to happen. And it always is, every single time!”

What do the duo think is the best thing about making Breaking Dad? Bradley said: “I love meeting the people, I’m so interested in people and different cultures and in

history and we get to meet some incredible people making this show.”

Barney added: “I think for me it’s just that we get to share these memories and laughs together. We get to experience some amazing moments that hopefully one day I’ll be able to share with my own children and show them the programme. It’s really special.” n Bradley and Barney Walsh: Breaking Dad continues on Mondays at 8pm on ITV.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 R'n'R 6

R'n'R Your Announcements

You can email photos for announcements on this page to: tracey.allen@rafnews.co.uk

Deaths CARR Ronald (Ron) Cpl (Ret’d) died peacefully surrounded by his family on December 9, 2021 aged 78 after a valiant fight with cancer. An MT driver by trade he proudly served the Royal Air Force between 1970-1992. He finished his career at RAF Leeming after various postings within the UK as well as Germany and Cyprus.

A dedicated family man, he will be sadly missed by his wife Margaret and his three children, Kim, Celeste and Richard, and four grandchildren. Gone but never forgotten. Per Ardua Ad Astra.

and civilian personnel who served at RAF Changi (inc.

HQFEAF ) during 1946-72.

For more information please contact our Membership Secretary: Malcolm Flack on: 01494 728562 or email: MemSecChangi@outlook. com or visit: www.rafchangi. com for more details.

RAF Bawdsey Reunion Association.

Having cancelled our 2020 reunion, we have provisionally planned the next reunion for Saturday, May 21 before The Queen’s Jubilee celebrations and the extended public holidays in early June, and we look forward to seeing our friends again then. Any queries please email: doreen. bawdseyreunion@btinternet. com or call: 07513 301723.

Seeking LOOKING for anyone stationed at RAF Safi, in Malta, and RAF Idris, in Libya, between June 1963 and December 1965. Also, anyone on the RAF flight on Floriana parade ground for Independence Day in September 1964, in Malta.

Please contact Geoff Stevens, on: moomin33@hotmail. co.uk or (01795) 479803.

Reunions RAF Admin Apprentice Association Annual General Meeting and Reunion June 17-19, Northampton Marriott Hotel. For full details and options please contact the association’s social secretary on: 01403 581324 or email: socialsecretary@ rafadappassn.org. This will be our first reunion since lockdown and will be a great chance to catch up with old friends and indeed make new ones.

THE RAF Changi Association (inc. HQFEAF) founded May 1996 welcomes new members from all ranks, ex RAF/WRAF/WAAF

RAFAA Association IF you trained as an RAF Administrative Apprentice (or are related to one) we would be delighted to welcome you to the RAFAAA. Our aim is to promote friendship and general wellbeing among our veterans, via social gatherings and assorted activities, as devised by an elected committee, and a regular newsletter. See :rafadappassn.org or contact the Membership Secretary on: 07866 085834 or Chairman on: 01933 443673.

We we want to hear from you.

Thanksgiving service A thanksgiving service will be held for Sir Michael Oswald GCVO on Friday, March 25 at 11am at St Clement Danes, London WC2R 1DH. There will be an opportunity to meet up afterwards, for which an admission card will be required. Please email michaeloswald1934@gmail. com or contact a member of the family for an admission card and further details.

RAFBF Awards 2022 NOMINATIONS FOR the annual RAF Benevolent Fund Awards are now open.

This year’s awards celebrate the stand-out contributions made by the individuals, organisations and RAF stations who supported the Fund in 2021.

Perhaps you know an Airplay Youth Worker who put their all into supporting children and young people of the RAF Family, or a station that got behind fundraising activities in a tough year? If so, head to: rafbf.org/raf-benevolentfund-awards-nominations for more information and to submit your nominations for the following six categories: Above and Beyond – for an extraordinary individual or group who have gone above and beyond to promote the work of the RAF Benevolent Fund; Airplay Youth Worker of the Year – for an Airplay Youth Worker who has shown outstanding commitment to improving the wellbeing of RAF children; Air Training Corps Squadron of the Year – for a squadron which has shown outstanding support for the RAF Benevolent Fund through fundraising or their commitment at Fund events; Fundraising Team of the Year – for a truly dedicated team of volunteers who have all worked tirelessly to fundraise for the RAF Benevolent Fund; RAF Station of the Year – for an RAF station which has provided exceptional support to the RAF Benevolent Fund; Welfare Caseworker of the Year – for a welfare caseworker who has gone the extra mile for our veterans and their families.

Nominations close on Friday February 11, 2022 at 5pm. Contact Ellen Brooks, Special Events Manager, on: 020 7307 3321 or email: ellen.brooks@rafbf.org.uk if you have any queries.

How to use our service There is no charge for conventionally-worded birth, engagement, marriage, anniversary, death, in memoriam seeking and reunion notices. For commercial small ads contact Edwin Rodrigues on: 07482 571535.

We cannot, under any circumstances, take announcements over the telephone. They can be sent by email to: tracey.allen@rafnews.co.uk. Please note that due to the coronavirus pandemic we are currently unable to accept notices submitted by post.

Important Notice The publishers of RAF News cannot accept responsibility for the quality, safe delivery or operation of any products advertised or mentioned in this publication.

Reasonable precautions are taken before advertisements are accepted but such acceptance does not imply any form of approval or recommendation. Advertisements (or other inserted material) are accepted subject to the approval of the publishers and their current terms and conditions. The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act. All copy is subject to the approval of the publishers, who reserve the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to them at their absolute discretion and without explanation.

All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice. Mail order advertisers are required to state in advertisements their true surname or full company name, together with an address from which the business is managed.

Virtual challenge supports Vulcan VULCAN fans are being urged to celebrate 70 years since its first flight by taking up a virtual fitness challenge.

And the RAF Museum will reward those who register to walk, run or cycle 100km, 250km or 500km before April 14 with a huge bespoke medal featuring the iconic aircraft and a pet tag for dogs taking part.

RAF Museum London public events manager Ella Hewitt said: “We are excited to kick-start the new year with the Vulcan Challenge, celebrating 70 years of arguably the most famous of Britain’s three V-bombers, operated by the RAF. “Support from our Challengers enables us to keep the doors of our Museums open for all generations to enjoy."

The Vulcan first flew in 1952 and, along with the Valiant and Victor, provided part of Britain’s nuclear deterrent for 15 years.

ICONIC: The ever-popular Vulcan on display at the RAF Museum, Cosford

In 1970 they switched to the conventional bomber role in support of Nato forces in Europe. The Vulcan’s range could be greatly increased by in-flight refuelling, which was used in long-range attacks on the Falkland Islands from Ascension Island in 1982.

The last Vulcans retired from operational service in 1984 and the aircraft are on display at both RAF Museums in London and Cosford.

Participants can join the RAF Museum Virtual Running Group on Facebook and buy limited edition Vulcan Challenge T-shirts and hooded sweatshirts for £15 and £30.

Those pledging to raise £100 for the museum will get a T-shirt free. n Go to rafmuseum.org to register. Entry is £20 per person and proceeds go towards supporting the RAF Museum.

Museum launches live event TICKETS ARE now available for IWM Live, a new all-day event on Saturday, June 11 featuring book signings from leading historical authors, the expertise of the Imperial War Museum’s curators and the chance to handle objects from the Museum’s collection.

IWM Live will take place at IWM Duxford and will also include talks about iconic aircraft such as the Lancaster, Vulcan, Spitfire and Mosquito.

Among the writers taking part are Professor Richard Overy (The Dictators; Blood and Ruins: The Great Imperial War 1931-1945), Clare Mulley (The Women Who

Flew For Hitler), Dr Helen Fry (Spymaster; The Walls Have Ears) and Katja Hoyer (Blood and Iron).

The IWM’s expert curators will be leading talks on topics including HMS Belfast and the Arctic Convoys, described as “the worst journey in the world”; black Americans in Britain during World War II and stories of how the IWM was founded during World War I. IWM curator Emily Charles, who will be a speaker at IWM Live, said: “We are so excited to showcase everything special about experiencing IWM live and in person with this event.

AUTHORS: Clare Mulley will be appearing at IWM Live on June 11 along with Prof Richard Overy, top right

"In particular I’m looking forward to introducing audiences to stories of some of the real people who shaped life and culture in the UK when American forces came to Britain in WWII. “IWM Live is a really exciting venture for us and there is nowhere better to see history come to life than at this site, which has seen some of the most dramatic days in twentieth century conflict.”

Katja Hoyer added: “The historical significance of Duxford makes it a fascinating venue to visit.

“I’m delighted to be part of IWM Live and share the stage with fellow historians and with some of the museum’s fantastic collections.” n Go to: iwm.org.uk for booking details.

Royal Air Force News Friday, January 28, 2022 R'n'R 8

R'n'R Crossword

Prize Su Doku

No. 308

No. 318

Solve the crossword, then rearrange the 8 letters in yellow squares to find an RAF station

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, each column and each 3x3 square contains all the digits from 1 to 9.

Across 1. Egyptian god, for example, returning fury (4) 8. Truce uncle makes out of defiance (10) 9. Maybe Annual General Meeting wants to create station (2,6) 10. King and queen lose right scoundrels (4) 12. Type that is an operational flight (6) 14. In area personnel find aircraft (6) 15. It is sensitive to light trained endlessly, perhaps (6) 17. Stay with really eccentric Scot in darkest Edinburgh initially (6) 18. 100 argue about bird (4) 19. Mischievous child not about station (8) 21. Established central tributary (10) 22. Part of the Spaniard comes back to part of the church (4) Down 2. He has lots to get rid of (10) 3. It is likely to erupt, overturning stake (4) 4. Steal the Spanish food on way back (6) 5. Arsenal-supporting member of RAF? (6) 6. Charles polite about old station (8) 7. Heartless jokes about RAF fighters (4) 11. Do fear catches (10) 13. Follow victory with draw: it helps progress (8) 16. Tessa returns bearing gifts (6) 17. She turns pages about heartless snake (6) 18. Commanding Officer finds mother in trance (4) 20. Penny Thurman uses helicopter (4)

Solution to Su Doku No: 317

Solution to Crossword No 307: Across – 7. Hornet 8. Merino 10. Embrace 11. Green 12. Alto 13. Lemur 17. Yeats 18. Dune 22. Odour 23. Octopus 24. Cougar 25. Ikarus Down – 1. Cheetah 2. Tribute 3. Texas 4. Belgium 5. Rivet 6. Joint 9. Desert Fox 14. Hearsay 15. Support 16. Persist 19. Force 20. Vogue 21. Stoke RAF station – Leeming

Film review

Win!

Resistance 1942

On digital platforms and DVD now (Signature Entertainment)

Path of least Resistance...

I

N NAZI-OCCUPIED France, a hopeful voice of resistance comes over the radio from an underground broadcaster, inspiring many to stay resilient, but also attracting the attention of the Gestapo – intent on stamping out this blatant act of defiance.

Cary Elwes is Jacques, known to the Axis puppet government simply as The Voice. He delivers messages of hopefulness, urging those who listen to survive and resist.

Holed up in a basement with his daughter Juliet (Greer Grammar) and a group of Jewish hideaways, the importance of this act is understood, so too by the listening ear of Klaus Jager (Sebastian Roché) a Nazi officer determined to snuff out this dying light of hope.

In the film’s opening some context is given to the advent of radio, including a snippet of Churchill’s 'We shall fight on the beaches’ speech. When Klaus questions one of his own men about his loyalty, he says that his heart swells when he hears the Führer speak.

Much is made of the power of speaking, and having one’s voice heard. Elwes meets the job

Predictable script fails to enthrall

of delivering stirring talks with a gruff, dramatic intensity that follows him everywhere in the film. This is matched

by Greer and unfortunately makes the drama rather obvious and overstated.

Where the film regains some subtlety is in the suitably restrained performance of Jason Patric as Andrei, a Swiss banker who takes in the group when they go on the run. In order to maintain discretion, he proposes that they each play the part of workers at his large country manor.

This comes to a head however

WALLS HAVE EARS: Hideaways have to act as servants when Nazi officer invites himself to dinner at the home of Swiss banker Andrei, also inset left

when Officer Klaus invites himself for dinner, leading to a very high stakes event in which the pursued group of fugitives must perform as servants, all the while listening to their own casual subjugation.

Unfortunately, with the exception of the dinner party, the tension of Resistance 1942 is undone by its familiar set ups and predictability, but this final scene is where it shows the most promise.

2 out of five roundels Review by Sam Cooney

Judge 1942 for yourself WE HAVE copies of Resistance 1942 (certificate 15) on DVD to add to your collection. For your chance to own one, simply answer this question correctly: By what name is Jacques (Cary Elwes) known in the film?

Email your answer, marked Resistance 1942 DVD competition, to: competitions@rafnews. co.uk or post it to: RAF News, Room 68, Lancaster Building, HQ Air Command, High Wycombe, HP14 4UE, to arrive by February 11, 2022. Please include your full postal address with your entry.