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EDITORIAL TEAM
Editor Ms Anita Jack
Editorial Team Mrs Bev Masters
Editorial Contact 51⁰ North Magazine RAF Brize Norton Carterton, Oxfordshire OX18 3LX
Email: bzn-51degreesnorth@mod.gov.uk
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CHARITY
SPORT
E DITOR’S FOREWORD
Welcome to the latest edition of 51 Degrees North, the station magazine of RAF Brize Norton, a magazine where life on the station is brought to you.
In each issue, we strive to curate content that not only informs but also inspires, challenges and connects each and everyone of you to station life. In this edition I am delighted to share all our news, exploring how it shapes our world and how we in turn shape it.
We pride ourselves in being able to tell you our stories, giving an insight into the RAF’s largest station.
This issue comes with exciting news: a brand-new series of Top Guns (you may have seen Top Guns 1 & 2) is being filmed right here on station. We are thrilled to be at the heart of this
creative journey and even more excited to be able to share this with you all. It’s not every day that a production of this scale sets up in our own backyard and we can’t wait for you to see the finished product – I will keep you all posted.
Thank you for continuing to share your successes with us, your engagement paves the way as we continue our journey.
Stay tuned, both on the page and on the screen - happy reading, till next time…
Anita – MCO Editor 51 Degrees North
Your article should aim to be between 300-500 words in length, with a high resolution picture over 1MB for every 100 words you write. You should ensure that personnel/activities in photos are named and that you provide the author’s details, in case we require any more information. Send your completed articles to BZN-51DegreesNorth@mod.gov.uk. We look forward to receiving your articles and make every effort to publish as many of them as possible. DEADLINE PLEASE SUBMIT ALL ARTICLES BY 22ND JULY
Dakota Gate Guardian Restoration
The completion of the iconic Dakota Gate Guardian at 47 Air Dispatch sits proudly in its former glory and preserving an important piece of military heritage.
The Gate Guardian has stood watch over 47 Air Dispatch at RAF Brize Norton since being moved from its original base RAF Lyneham on 28th January 2013.
Captain Joshua Lakey said: “The restoration reflects our ongoing commitment to honouring the legacy of those who came before us. The freshly painted Guardian is not only a visual powerful landmark but also a tribute to the generations who have served with distinction.”
The restoration which took approximately 2-3 months to complete was proudly crowd funded by a dedicated community of current and former serving personnel whose support and their belief in the restoration to bring this iconic Guardian back to life.
Airfield Operating Surface
The Aircraft Operating Surface (AOS) is a Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) Project to refurbish the airfield at RAF Brize Norton, including the runway, taxiways, hardstanding and associated Aeronautical Ground Lighting (AGL).
This project is taking place as part of works to ensure continued safe operation and compliance on the airfield, with an intention to future proof the surface life for an additional 25 years.
The AOS Project is managed by DIO with the Brize Development Team (BDT) providing the interface between RAF Brize Norton, DIO and the Air Mobility Force Headquarters for aircraft operational requirements.
The main construction effort is due to start on the airfield in Spring 2026 and the project is due to complete by the end of 2027. In Summer 2026 some dispersal of aircraft will be required while main runway works are completed and the detailed planning for this is already underway.
The contractor, VolkerFitzpatrick, commenced enabling work in May 2025 on RAF Brize Norton’s Gateway Pitches, which will be the Northern Batching Plant Site throughout the project. This will be a temporary site, but there will be some changes to this area of Station for the duration of the project. Activity in May will include the removal of topsoil on one side of the football pitches and work to erect internal fencing.
Once the football season has finished at the end of May, work will start on the other half of the site. Work is also due to commence in June 2025 on the Southern Batching Plant Site in the south of the airfield. Further updates and detail will follow across Station media outlets as the project progresses.
To hear more about the AOS Project from BDT Programme Manager, Matt Lane and OC Operations Support Wing, Wg Cdr Tom Howell, please listen to the Brize Podcast - BrizeCastAircraft Operating Surfaces
RAF Brize Norton Station Commander Group Captain Louise Henton breaks ground at the start of the AOS Enabling works.
Map of AOS Scope.
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Exercise Venture Spirit Tactical Medical Wing Train
Skills Away from Home Base.
Ateam of nine Aeromedical Evacuation Flight Nurses and Medics, supported by the Critical Care Air Support Team (CCAST) and Infection Prevention Control (IPC) specialists, successfully deployed to Flying Station Aldergrove as part of Exercise Venture Spirit aimed at enhancing interoperability and clinical skills.
Exercise Venture Spirit is a regular Air Mobility Force exercise, focussing on training personal to operate away from home base, giving both aircrew and supporting units the ability to deploy around the world.
Flight Lieutenant Tom Knight, Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron said:
“The exercise showcased a complex cross-deck transfer of a critically ill patient between aircraft, demonstrating seamless coordination and high-level aeromedical care under pressure.
The team also engaged in reciprocal training with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, focusing on the use of the Air Transport Isolator (ATI), furthering joint operational preparedness for infectious disease scenarios. This exercise marked another step forward in delivering world-class, adaptable medical support to operations worldwide, underpinning the RAF’s commitment to excellence in patient care, clinical development, and whole force cooperation.”
As part of the exercise, personnel were also tested in the care and management of a large patient load, reinforcing clinical prioritisation, communication, and resilience in high-tempo environments.
In addition to working closely with Air Mobility Force colleagues, the deployment provided an opportunity for professional exchange, with
a medic from the Royal New Zealand Air Force embedded in the team. The Aeromed team included representatives from both 612 and 4626 Squadrons, reinforcing the value of RAF Reserve contributions to front-line capability.
This exercise marked another step forward in delivering world-class, adaptable medical support to operations worldwide, underpinning the RAF’s commitment to excellence in patient care, clinical development, and whole force cooperation.
Recognising Service and Dedication
Our Station Commander, Group Captain Louise Henton formally recognised personnel for their service and dedication at a recent Honours and Awards ceremony.
The event celebrated excellence across the Station, with awards for a wide range of achievements. Notably, this ceremony marked the first presentation, at RAF Brize Norton, of Restorative Measures issued to Veterans affected by the ban on LGBT personnel serving in the UK military between 1967 and 2000.
RAF Brize Norton's Station Commander, Group Captain Henton said: "It was great to see such a range of awards and commendations and to hear about the outstanding achievements of our personnel. It was also a privilege to host Ann and Kate today at RAF Brize Norton’s first Restorative Action Ceremony and welcome them back into the RAF family."
FALCONS FOCUS
With an exciting display season just around the corner, the RAF Falcons have recently returned from their second phase of winter training: Exercise Falcon Stack.
The exercise consisted of five weeks of display training at Skydive Dubai, United Arab Emirates. During those intensive five weeks, the team practiced individual elements of the parachute display culminating with a full 10-person display with smokes.
First year Falcons undertook the Display Parachutist Course which taught them advanced canopy handling techniques required for display parachuting. Third year Falcons received Display Leader Training which developed the skills required to lead in a public display in the absence of the Team Coach.
On completion of Exercise Falcon Stack, the team began their final phase of winter training: Exercise UK Stack. Whilst Dubai provides the perfect conditions to practice the display in clear blue skies, the team had to now get used to the tricky UK weather conditions and test their accuracy skills by landing into tighter drop zones.
After a successful Public Display of Authority (PDA) the RAF Falcons have been granted authority by AOC 1 GP to continue with the upcoming season. Launch Day took place on 1st May 2025 at RAF Brize Norton and with a great attendance from station personnel, seven local schools and their 2025 sponsors. The RAF Falcons put on a superb display, showcasing the new Helix manoeuvre.
The first public display of the season took place on 3rd May 2025 at Festival of the 40’s in Leicester; unfortunately, due to cloud the display was limited to a low show with the RAF Falcons showing off their tightly packed Sabre chase.
The season will culminate with the Pacific Air Show, Huntington California on the 3rd October 2025.
With over 50 displays planned for the 2025 season, three of which being overseas, it’s going to be a busy and exciting few months for the RAF Falcons. The full display programme will be released over the next few weeks, to find out if we’re jumping near you, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and X.
II Squadron Anniversary Tab
Celebrating Legacy and Resilience: II Squadron’s 10-Mile TAB for the 103rd Anniversary
As part of its 103rd anniversary celebrations, II Squadron is once again showcasing its strength, unity, and enduring legacy by completing its annual 10-mile Tactical Advance to Battle (TAB), a tradition that has become a hallmark of the unit’s history. For more than a century, II Squadron has faced numerous challenges, and the 10-mile TAB is one of the most poignant symbols of its long-standing commitment to excellence.
This year’s TAB saw the Squadron’s personnel traverse a demanding 10-mile route across the local terrain, marking yet another significant milestone in their storied history. From their first steps as pioneers of aviation to their modern-day achievements, II Squadron has maintained its unwavering dedication to duty, and the 10-mile TAB is no exception.
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Tradition Steeped in History
The 10-mile TAB, although
physically demanding, is more than just a test of endurance. It is a tribute to the Squadron’s past and a way to honour its history, wherever it may have been based over the years. Since the Squadron’s formation in 1922, the 10-mile TAB has been held annually in the local area of each base. From the green fields of the UK to deployments around the world, each year’s TAB has been a symbol of the bond between
the Squadron’s personnel, a tribute to their resilience, and a reminder of their steadfastness in the face of adversity. As II Squadron celebrates 103 years of service, the TAB takes on an even deeper significance. It reflects not only the physical endurance required to complete such a challenge, but also the mental fortitude, discipline, and camaraderie that have always been the squadron’s foundation.
The Challenge: Gear, Grit, and Determination
The 10-mile TAB is no easy feat. Squadron members are required to carry a 35lb Bergan (excluding water), and they are equipped in the standard Personal Clothing System (PCS)— comprising a shirt, trousers, boots, and the necessary combat gear. In addition to the physical load, the challenging local terrain, which changes with each year’s location, adds an extra layer of difficulty. Yet it is through this very hardship that the Squadron members demonstrate their resilience and dedication to the core values of teamwork and excellence.
A Tribute to the Past, a Legacy for the Future
While the 10-mile TAB marks another milestone in II Squadron’s illustrious history, it also serves as a reminder of the many challenges the squadron has faced and overcome. From its
early days in the interwar period to its involvement in conflicts around the world, II Squadron’s resilience and commitment to mission success have remained unwavering.
The TAB is also an opportunity for newer members of the Squadron to bond with the more experienced personnel and learn about the traditions that have made II Squadron one of the most respected and enduring units in the military. As each member puts one foot in front of the other, they are ensuring that the squadron’s core values are passed down to future generations.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger, Unified II Squadron
As II Squadron marches forward into its next century of service, the 10-mile TAB remains an important tradition— one that strengthens the bonds between personnel, instils a sense of pride, and keeps the Squadron’s rich
legacy alive. The event serves as a reminder that despite the challenges ahead, II Squadron will continue to march forward with the same grit and determination that have defined its history.
This year, as the Squadron completes its 10-mile TAB, it does so with an eye on the future and a deep respect for its past. Whether they are new recruits or seasoned veterans, the members of II Squadron know that their strength lies not just in their physical abilities, but in their shared commitment to the Squadron’s values and to each other. As they take those final steps across the finish line, II Squadron will be not only celebrating the anniversary of its founding but also reaffirming its dedication to the mission, its heritage, and the enduring bond that makes the squadron stronger year after year. Here’s to another 103 years of courage, camaraderie, and service.
Under Training Parachute Jumping Instructors Graduate
Congratulations to Parachute Jumping Instructor (PJI) Course 01-24 that graduated on the 15th May 2025.
The PTI’s (Parachute Training Instructors) and Training Officers have spent the last nine months learning all the necessary skills to become a PJI. The PJI’s received their brevets from Air Commodore Hamilton, Commander Global Enablement during their graduation ceremony held at Airborne Delivery Wing at RAF Brize Norton in front of family and friends. Airborne Delivery Wing is the
home of military parachute training for the UK Armed Forces, training instructors and parachutists across the RAF, British Army and Royal Navy.
Corporal Anderton has been in the RAF for 5 years and always knew he wanted to be a PJI, aspiring to become a member of the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team after watching the team display at RAF Cranwell when he was 12.
Cpl Anderton said:
“I have absolutely loved the PJI course. We’ve been lucky enough to have quite a large group, all 11 of us are very similar. Two weeks into the course we were straight out to America on exercise. I’ve got 76 jumps so far and I’m qualified on three different parachute types so quite a lot for one course, so we were fortunate. I’m excited for what else is to come. I remember my legs were a little shaky on my first jump and I think you could’ve heard my heart beating from the next state! But as soon as you step out, it is amazing”
Becoming a Parachute Jumping Instructor involves a lot of instructional content, with the requirement to pass several tests. The vetting process makes sure you are a particular individual with specific characteristics and able to follow strict processes for safely instructing future parachutists from all three services of the Armed Forces.
Cpl Anderton added:
“My advice is for the next set of students to be a sponge. Take what you are given, do the extra work and put in the effort to revise. It isn’t an easy job so you can’t afford to be complacent. With this being said, you have a great group of very experienced instructors that will give you everything that you need to ensure you’re at the standard required.” Airborne Delivery Wing are extremely proud of this cohort of new PJIs and wish them the very best in their PJI careers. Well done all of you.
Veterans in Defence (Air)
Q&A – Gus Murray, Chair of the Veterans in Defence (Air) Network.
Gus Murray is the Chair of The Veterans in Defence (Air) Network. He answered some questions about the Network, its successes, the challenges it has faced and what the future looks like.
Tell us a bit about the Veterans in Defence (Air) Network.
The Veterans in Defence (Air) Network launched in September 2023, with the support of the Chief of the Air Staff and RAF Senior Leadership, and our Network Champion – AVM Mark Flewin.
Since then, our Network membership has grown from around 50 members to nearly 220 members. Our membership
is primarily formed of RAF Veterans who have returned to Defence in the guise of a Civil Servant, Contractors, or Reservists.
Founded by veterans, the network is designed to provide an opportunity where people can connect with others who have shared lived-experiences, access resources if they are transitioning from the Service, network with likeminded personnel, and find support in their roles – should they seek it.
The network has an active events programme, including Station visits and engagement with the serving leadership of the RAF. We have also
begun advocating on issues directly related to Veterans.
From the initial set up of the network to now, what have been the main challenges faced?
The most significant challenge has been getting the word out to Veterans working on RAF Stations. We are really relying on word of mouth, our bulletins, and getting to speak to RAF Publications to raise our profile.
We are also keen to build on work done thus far in building relationships with companies who share our vision and support for our Veterans, in assisting us in getting our name out there. So the Committee will be reaching
RAF and Network Members at Annual Formal Dinner, at RAF Coningsby (May ’24).
out to companies at RIAT this year to increase our visibility.
And how do you communicate with your members?
We produce quarterly bulletins informing members what work the Committee is doing, including upcoming social events. We have now branched out to social media platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, RAF Galaxy) to increase the awareness and accessibility of our Network to all RAF Veterans.
What has been the highlight so far?
For the Network on the whole, it has to be our first ever station engagement event at RAF Coningsby. All of those who attended were looked after so well by those at Coningsby.
The event included an opportunity for our Veterans to have a sneak-peek at the flying displays for the Typhoon Display Team and the BBMF before the displays went public. The event was capped off by our first formal dinner, where our Guest of Honour – Flight Lieutenant Colin Bell DFC BEM AE – took us on a journey when describing his exploits as a pilot in World War 2.
We also enjoyed participating in London Poppy Day 2024; where some of our Network members came together to help raise £27k at King’s Cross, and contributed to helping the Royal British Legion raising nearly £1.3m on the day.
My personal highlight is when I take time to stand back and see how far the Network has come in 18 months. We are growing both our membership and committee which will ensure we can be an influential and useful Network.
What are your plans for the future of the network?
As a Network, we have laid the foundations from which the Network can grow, but our focus is on building upon the success thus far and continuing to develop and strengthen our offer to our members. We want to help improve transition support to Service Leavers; signposting/welfare support; networking opportunities and being an influential voice for Veterans policy matters. We have already provided input on matters such as Civil Service Recruitment policy, and Barriers found in transition leaving the Service.
We have also begun liaising with foreign Allied Air Forces to see if reciprocal networks can be established so we can foster and build on the shared bonds of
WWII Veteran Mosquito Pilot - Flt Lt
friendship and esprit de corps, and coming together in shared times of Remembrance.
Five years from now, what do you hope the network looks like?
An easy question to answer, but a lot of steps to get there. We would love to see our membership hit 1000 members, seeing our Network being recognised for what we stand for, and champion.
Equally as important, if not more so, is contributing proactively to the resettlement process; and being seen as being a force for good in supporting our Service Veterans.
How do people find out more and get involved?
If anyone has any questions and/or wish to join our Network, they can contact the Committee at Air-Veterans-AirNetwork@
mod.gov.uk. They can also find us at Facebook, LinkedIn, and RAF Galaxy.
To highlight the Committees plans for the near future:
- The Committee are recognising the 85th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain/Blitz by holding 3x Battlefield Force Development tours of London over the summer of 2025;
- Their Annual Station Engagement event will be held at Brize Norton on 12 June 25, with a formal dinner in the evening;
- The Network have been invited to attend the Battle of Britain Memorial Flights Veterans Tea Party at RAF Coningsby on 9 July 25;
- And have been accepted to march as a recognised group at the Cenotaph in London on Remembrance Sunday.
Colin Bell BEM DFC
AE – toasting to a successful event.
Some of the Network members who participated at London Poppy Day at King’s Cross.
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RAFA KIDZ Nursery Visit 99 Squadron
To celebrate the Month of the Military child, on Tuesday 22 April, children from RAFA Kidz Brize Norton were invited to 99 Squadron ‘Home of the UK C17 Globemaster’ to experience an alternative environment for education.
After a short walk from the nursery, the children and staff were greeted by two Air Loadmasters, Dan and Tom, who showed the children around the aircraft. During the visit the children also witnessed a C17 Globemaster taxiing and enjoyed watching the aircraft taking off.
After snack time it was time to experience the ramp and door opening and closing, chatting to the loadmasters on the headsets and a time to test the cargo bay seats. Not only was it Month of the Military Child, it was also Pet Month. The children were overjoyed that OC 99 Squadron's dog sat proudly at her office window for all to see; the children all waved enthusiastically as they passed her office whilst making their way back to the nursery for lunch.
Well done to all the children who were so well-behaved during the visit and after all that walking, hopefully slept well that night! A big thank you to all those who made this visit possible, giving the children an amazing experience as we celebrated ‘Month of the Military Child’.
For anyone interested in any more information about RAFA Kidz Brize Norton Nursery please contact The Management team on brizenorton@ rafakidz.org.uk
Padre’s piece – Rev (Wg Cdr) Chris Carré
Hello!
I’d like to introduce myself as the new Senior Chaplain at RAF Brize Norton. Not a conventional photo for a padre I know but then I don’t think I’m a conventional padre!
I come to Brize with some experience behind me, eleven years as a civilian Police Officer, seven years as a Salvation Army minister and thirteen as an RAF Chaplain. A variety of roles over the years have hopefully given me some very valuable experience in dealing with people; the bread and butter of chaplaincy.
I’m married to Paula, we have two sons, Ethan (22) and Matt (19) and a dog (Rolo)! My photo gives away one of my greatest loves; running & triathlon. This was great when I started out 35 years ago, however the body has taken a gradually battering over the years and I find myself having to gain perspective now on what I want to achieve.
Life can also feel like some of us have taken a battering over the years, whether it be a minor injury when we hit a bump in the road or whether it is a full-on breakdown because we’ve crashed, life has a habit of throwing surprises upon us.
Our response to these crises is unique to each of us, however we all have a choice to make when they occur. We can either stick our head in the sand and hope they will go away or talk with others who have been there or somewhere similar. There’s no magic formula other than connecting with someone so you’re not alone in your suffering and Chaplaincy is here at Brize for that; if we can’t help, then we will try and find someone who can!
So as we journey down this road called ‘life’ together and face the bumps and surprises awaiting us, keep an eye out for anyone who’s suffering and shout out if you need help yourself. Otherwise I hope you can enjoy the ride and I look forward to seeing you out on the road!
Padre Chris Carré
Brize Norton Conservation Club Creates New Garden for Airplay Youth Club
In April, the Brize Norton Conservation Club took on the rewarding task of transforming a disused area of the Millennium Amenities Centre (MAC) garden into a vibrant conservation garden for the Station’s Airplay Youth Club.
“The aim of the garden is to create a calm space where the children can experience and influence the nature around them,” explained the Station Environmental Protection Officer. “We have created areas to encourage flora and fauna, whilst also leaving spaces for the children to plant their own seeds and bulbs.”
Much of the garden’s newfound charm lies in its new handmade features, built by volunteers using repurposed and reclaimed materials. From raised beds and a mud kitchen to bird boxes, bug hotels and chalkboards, every corner of the space reflects the passion and care of those who have brought it to life.
The project also benefited enormously from the generosity of local teams and organisations across station. JADTEU, THALES, Serco, Vinci and the Grounds Maintenance crew each played a part— contributing everything from bespoke benches and bird feeders to wood chippings, tools and building materials. These contributions added not only practical value but also a real sense of shared purpose.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support shown by Station personnel and our partners,” the SEPO added. “This project simply wouldn’t have been
possible without the combined effort of serving personnel, civilians, contractors and local contributors. It truly was a whole-force achievement.”
The new conservation garden now stands as a lasting resource for the Airplay Youth Club and an example of what can be achieved through community collaboration.
Special thanks
Working party: David Davies – EP, Val Sanderson – H&S, Cpl Christopher Lyon – 1AMW, Chf Tech Sophie Hobson –A400M, Sgt Adam Airey – 1AMW, AS1 Eva Foots – Logs Sqn, Cpl James Wheatley – ESS, AS1 Samuel Matthews – TMW, Alan Falconer – ATLAS, Hope Bee – Vinci, Louise Watson – Vinci, Nico Hoefnagels – Vinci, WO Scott Drinkel – 24Sqn, Sarah Grose – ATLAS, AS1 Jodie-Leigh Marsden – OSW, Joel Maund – ATLAS, Cpl Jasmin McDaid – RAFP, Jamie Gould – Vinci
Donations
JADTEU – Bench (handmade), wood offcuts for birdboxes
THALES – Bench, chalkboards, bird feeders and table, buddleia bush
Serco – Benches, canopy and gardening tools
Vinci – Materials and building of mud kitchen, fence fix, pathway stones
Grounds Maintenance – Wood chippings and removal of green waste
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Celebrating National Pet Month at RAF Brize Norton
RAF Brize Norton have been celebrating National Pet Month by meeting the many furry friends who join us regularly and their owners from across our entire force.
From start to finish, Squadron Leader’s
Half Marathon Triumph
Huge congratulations to our very own Squadron Leader Stu Masters who completed the gruelling London Landmarks Half Marathon on Sunday 6th April, in aid of Different Strokes Charity and raised £2,600.
Different Strokes have personal experience of life after stroke. Most of their staff, volunteers and trustees are stroke survivors, family members, or have a close personal connection to stroke. Different Strokes recognise that younger stroke survivors and family members are the experts in stroke recovery and rehabilitation; consulting with them regularly to make sure that Different Strokes services are relevant and personalised.
You can find out more by visiting –www.differentstrokes.co.uk
From Almost Bed Bound to the Finish Line
A London Marathon Journey
and long-term support from the Exercise Rehabilitation Instructors (ERIs), I was able to gradually rebuild strength and mobility. Their expertise and encouragement helped turn an unrealistic dream into a reality.
I ran this marathon for Versus Arthritis, a charity that supports people living with arthritis across the UK. Given my personal experience, it felt right to use this platform to raise both funds and awareness. So far, I’ve raised nearly £2,500 and I’m blown away by the generosity shown. Every donation is helping someone to get the support they need and making them feel less isolated every day.
If you’d like to contribute, please visit my justgiving page: Courtenay Smith is fundraising for Versus
Arthritis. Thank you to the Station, my line managers, colleagues, friends, and family for the endless support. This was for me, a comeback, a personal milestone and something I’ll never forget.
The finish line.
Climbing for a Cause
Healing Military Minds Conquers Snowdon.
In March, personnel from RAF Brize Norton and RAF Valley took part in the fourth annual Healing Military Minds (HMM) Snowdon climb, an event organised by Corporal Court of 622 Squadron, founder of the HMM fundraising group. Representing RAF Brize Norton was Commander Air Wing, Group Captain McIntyre, while RAF Valley was represented by Station Commander Group Captain Currie, Flight Sergeant Evans, joined a group from across the Tri-Service and veteran community.
The climb formed part of Combat Stress’s ‘March in March’ campaign, aimed at taking vital steps to “ensure that veterans can get the support they need.”
Gathering at The Heights in Llanberis, the team posed for a group photo before setting off on the 9-mile Llanberis Path route to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), standing at 1,085m. Despite light rain and thick fog, morale remained
high. At the summit, the sun made a brief appearance, adding to the sense of achievement. Throughout the climb, Air Officer Wales, Air Commodore Woods, engaged with participants, sharing conversations about service life.
Healing Military Minds is a voluntary organisation dedicated to raising funds for Combat Stress, increasing awareness, and supporting personnel facing mental health challenges. Under Cpl Court's leadership, the charity has raised over
£150,000, with this event alone adding more than £2,000 to the total.
Looking ahead, the next major fundraising event will be the Healing Military Minds 2025 Fundraising Ball, set to take place at The De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel, near Cirencester, on September 27, 2025.
Tickets are available at: https://buytickets.at/ healingmilitaryminds/1484929
RAF Benevolent Fund Awards 2025
AS1 Martin has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Fundraiser of the Year Award at the annual awards event in London, following an extraordinary fundraising expedition to Everest Base Camp in October 2024.
The ambitious challenge saw AS1 Martin and his team trek 80 miles through the Himalayas over 12 days, reaching extreme altitudes and ultimately flying the RAF Benevolent Fund (RAFBF) flag at Everest Base Camp (5,346m) — the highest it has ever been flown on land.
The expedition gained widespread attention and raised an impressive £3,320 for the RAF Benevolent Fund, supporting its vital work for RAF personnel and their families.
AS1 Martin said, “It was a huge honour to receive this award, and I give equal credit to my incredible team members and generous sponsors who made this achievement possible.”
Military Boarding at Stover School
academic success, stability and support for military families from across the UK.
Nestled in the heart of the Devon countryside, Stover School offers a warm and welcoming environment where every child is truly known and valued. Here, academic excellence flourishes alongside a gentle approach to learning, allowing pupils to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
With a dedicated team of passionate teachers and a robust pastoral care system, children are encouraged and supported to achieve their very best, while feeling safe and respected every step of the way. This nurturing atmosphere ensures that each student’s individual strengths are recognised and celebrated.
Stover’s impressive academic results—such as a 97% A Level pass rate and 100% at GCSE—stand as a testament to the school’s high standards. Yet, it is the inclusive and supportive community that truly sets Stover apart.
We are proud to support military families and have extensive experience with parents using the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA), making a Stover education accessible and reassuring for those in service.
Surrounded by 64 acres of beautiful grounds, Stover’s vibrant community inspires curiosity, confidence, and kindness. Pupils are prepared not just for exams, but for life’s many opportunities and challenges.
Discover what Stover has to offer children aged 3 to 18—where education is about more than grades; it’s about growing into your best self. Contact the admissions team to arrange a private tour of the school at a time that suits you on admissions@stover.co.uk or 01626 354505.
RAFAA Coarse (Match)
Drennan RAF Angling Association Coarse (Match) Team battle against the best!
The Sensas Challenge is the ultimate UK-based event fished to world championship rules, attracting the finest teams from across the UK, including National teams from Wales, Scotland, and the Channel Islands, along with the formidable French Team, Sensas 28. This prestigious event also offers the winning team the honour of representing England and the Angling Trust at the World Club Championships in Ireland, where they will compete against the best club teams from all over Europe. The competition is fierce, and the standard is the highest seen in any UK domestic match, with all the UK's International anglers in attendance.
The event is professionally run over a 4-day period, featuring two official practice days and two competition days and the team with the lowest cumulative total of points is crowned the winner. The Drennan RAF Team, comprised of WO Dalziel, A/WO Bright, Sgt Reid, Sgt Thornton, and Cpl Wardle, initially we prepared by understanding the canal and how the fish would react to bait. After catching well, we could start to build a better understanding of the venue and how the fishing would unfold.
Friday saw the team set up their stalls for the day and despite the area fishing poor the day before, the team experimented with varying amounts feeding strategies.
This proved vital as they formulated a great plan, identifying the correct depths to fish on the canal's slopes and the amount of feed to introduce for the first day of competition.
On Saturday, confident we could master the canal, which is renowned for its mood swings, requiring anglers to adapt to changing conditions at the drop of a hat our now well-rehearsed team put in a fantastic performance, finishing just outside the top 10 in 12th place with a total of 29 points.
Sunday showcased the canal's fickle nature. Areas devoid of fish the day before were suddenly teeming with fish willing to feed. This was never more evident for Sgt Reid, who travelled up to peg 374 on E section at Castle. Renowned for being tough, it had produced only 600 grams the previous day. Initially thinking a negative approach might be best to secure maximum team points, Steve quickly changed tactics and fed more aggressively, catching fish in abundance.
The rest of the team faced equally challenging scenarios but adapted well, returning a fantastic score of 26 points, giving them a two-day total of 55 points, but would this be enough to climb up the leaderboard into the framing places?
By the finest of margins, the Drennan RAF Team achieved a fantastic yet equally disappointing 11th place out of 33 incredible angling teams, tying on 55 points with Starlets Sensas (B), who beat us on cumulative weight count back by only 153 grams!
Individually, Sgt Reid put in a captain's performance, with a 2nd and 3rd in section, accumulating 5 points and a total weight of 6.376kg, finishing a very respectable 17th out of the 165 in attendance.
A thoroughly challenging event, but a highly rewarding one, seeing the RAFAA Coarse (Match) team not only battle but hold their own against the very best!
LXX Squadron Ski Expedition
Alpine Atlas 2025, ten years on, going strong.
70 Sqn, operating 24/7, deploying to every continent on the planet, training and supporting Ops in Ukraine, Gaza, Shader, Lithuania, etc. It is unrelenting and exhausting; with this in mind it is obvious the dedicated engineers of the Atlas force needed a break. For a lucky group this winter, that break came in the form of crisp mountain air, fresh powder, and the unbeatable adventure of Ski Foundation training (SF1&2) in the Alps.
Nestled on the northern edge of the Austrian Alps, the resort of Soll played host to two weeks of unforgettable adventures for a team of 48 personnel (in two, one-week cohorts) across the Atlas force and Brize Norton. The trip is designed to develop leadership, resilience, and teamwork; saw aircrew, engineers, admin and Ops staff swap their greens for salopettes.
From the moment we touched down, the excitement was palpable. After a winding transfer through dramatic mountain passes, the team arrived in the resort to blue skies and the anticipation of fresh snow. An early rise on the first morning to collect equipment and deliver safety briefs, however it didn’t take long for boots to be clipped in, and goggles pulled down.
The long days started early, with strong coffee fuelling a full schedule of ski lessons and off-piste plans for the SF2 students. Instructors praised the beginners quick learning curve, while the more experienced skiers were pushed to their limits on their travels over to Westendorf. As the trip progressed, there was pride in
watching students’ progress from snowploughs to skiing down red runs with confidence, conquering their various fears.
Beyond the skiing, the trip was also a chance to integrate with the wider Atlas and Stn personnel. In a vocation where training, deployments, and shift work often mean long periods without meeting your RO, having time together off-duty was a rare luxury. Evenings brought stories and the kind of camaraderie that only shared challenges (and shared wipeouts) can build.
By the end of the week, some incredible goggle tan lines and tired legs told the story of a trip well spent. For most, it was a reminder of what the RAF can offer them; with a chance to reset and recharge before returning to duty. But for everyone, it highlighted that resilience isn’t just built on the job; sometimes, it’s built halfway down a slope, when you have nothing left in the tank.
Fee free independent, whole of market, mortgage & military protection advice exclusively for serving HM Forces, veterans & Forces families. If you need advice on any of the following, please send an enquiry via info@affs.co.uk or visit www.affs.co.uk.
Forces Help to Buy
First time buyer mortgages
Home mover mortgages
Remortgages
BFPO address history
Consent to let
Life insurance
Serious illness cover
Family protection cover
AFFS are members of the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA) & we are delighted to provide our services under “find a broker” service agreed by BIBA via the Armed Forces Covenant Agreement.
We are also Directly Authorised Independent Financial Advisers & all ex-military.
AFFS is a trading name of TIMC Independent Financial Advisers Limited which is authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (439451)
YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
info@affs.co.uk or visit www.affs.co.uk
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