Cosford Apprentice
AUTUMN 2026
THE MAGAZINE OF RAF COSFORD
In This Issue… • Approbation Parade • Official opening of the new Officers’ Mess Annex • Families Day Highlights • Fit4Life Day plus much more...
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COSFORD APPRENTICE 3
CONTENTS
Cosford Apprentice, Autumn 2026
Apprentice Team: OIC & Editor: Sqn Ldr Chris Wilson Chris.wilson610@mod.gov.uk Deputy Editor : Mrs Sarah Jones sarah.jones830@mod.gov.uk
Article submission deadline for the Winter issue... 15th Dec 2026 Please send all articles for the Winter 2026/27 edition to sarah.jones830@mod.gov.uk
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Foreword From the Editor
COSFORD NEWS Published by: Lance Media Group Ltd 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 334 222 Advertising: Darren Greenhead E: darren@lancemediagroup.co.uk T: (01536) 680 414 Designer: Jo Glen
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This publication is copyright Lance Media Group Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Media Group Limted. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequences arising from it. Views expressed in thsi publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the Ministry of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright unless otherwise stated.
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A Sunset Tribute to The Few RAF Cosford Celebrates Veteran Jake Jacobs’ 101st Birthday Air Traffic Control News Expanding capability across RAF Engineering RAF Cosford welcomes Air Cdre Reid to open new Officers’ Mess annex Command Handover - Number 1 Radio School RAF Falcons gain their Public Display Authority for New Leadership for RAF Aircraft Engineering RAF Cosford exercises Grant of Approbation in Albrighton What does a Survival Equipment Air Technician career look like? RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC) Families Day Station Fit4Life day Graduations RAF Carp Angling Development Cosford Kayak Club RAF Cosford Motorcycle Club RAF Tug of War
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FOREWORD
BY WING COMMANDER RUTH WILSON BSC RAF
It has been another busy and rewarding period for RAF Cosford, and this edition of the Apprentice Magazine provides a welcome opportunity to pause and reflect on what our people have achieved.
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here is much to celebrate. From the pride on display at the latest Approbation Parade, marking an important milestone in the journey of our apprentices, to the successful handover of command at No. 1 Radio School, the pages that follow showcase the professionalism, commitment and teamwork that underpin everything we do, and that make our Airbase such a special place to work. What always strikes me about RAF Cosford is the sheer breadth of activity taking place across the Station. Alongside the major events and milestones, there are countless individuals quietly delivering excellence every day, unabated. Whether supporting the Front Line as Survival Equipment Technicians, enabling safe flying through Air Traffic Control, training the next generation of aviators and technicians, or keeping the Station running smoothly behind the scenes, every contribution matters. Together, they make Cosford the success it is. We were delighted to welcome Air Commodore Reid for the
official opening of the new Officers’ Mess Annex – O’Neill Wing. This significant investment in our infrastructure will improve the experience of our personnel for many years to come and reflects our ongoing commitment to making Cosford a great place to live, work and serve. No foreword can do justice to everything that has happened since the last edition. What this magazine does capture, however, is the energy, resilience and professionalism of our people. Time and again, they rise to the challenge, delivering on our operational, training and support commitments while embracing new opportunities and driving the Station forward. As we move towards the end of the year and, dare I say it, begin looking ahead to Christmas, I encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on what we have achieved together. It is important that we recognise our successes, celebrate them, and thank those who have made them possible before turning our attention to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in 2027.
My sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to another successful period for RAF Cosford. I hope you enjoy reading this
edition and, more importantly, take pride in the outstanding work taking place across the Station every day.
FROM THE EDITOR It doesn’t seem five minutes since we were enjoying the longer days of summer, yet here we are heading into the latter part of 2026. If they aren’t already by the time you’re reading this, the mornings will soon be filled with demisting and defrosting our cars before the journey to work, for some of us at least. Despite the changing seasons, the pace of life at RAF Cosford hasn’t slowed, nor has
the positive impact our personnel continue to make across the Station. This edition once again, is a reflection of that commitment and achievement. Inside, you’ll find coverage of the Albrighton Approbation Parade, which saw one of the largest contingents on parade for some time, alongside highlights from a successful Families Day and Fit
for Life event. These are just a few examples of the many activities and accomplishments that demonstrate the enthusiasm, professionalism and community spirit that continue to thrive across our whole force community. I hope you enjoy reading this edition and join me in celebrating the successes of those featured within its pages.
COSFORD APPRENTICE 5
COSFORD NEWS
A Sunset Tribute to The Few September saw RAF Cosford hold 2 Sunset parades in honour of the Battle of Britain. Personnel gathered outside their respective messes to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and determination of those who served during one of the most pivotal campaigns in the nation’s history.
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Supported by the RAF Cosford Voluntary Band, the ceremony provided a fitting opportunity to honour the legacy of “The Few” and remember those who secured our freedom as the sun set over the station.
COSFORD NEWS
RAF Cosford Celebrates Veteran Jake Jacobs’ 101st Birthday RAF Cosford was delighted to welcome RAF Veteran Jake Jacobs on 9 July 2026, as he celebrated his remarkable 101st birthday. During his visit, Jake toured several areas within the Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering (DSAE), where he met Aircraft Engineers and Physical Training Instructors, gaining an insight into the training and development of today’s Royal Air Force personnel. The day also included a special lunch in the Warrant Officers’ & Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ Mess, providing an opportunity to reflect on Jake’s service and his incredible contribution to the Royal Air Force family.
Everyone at RAF Cosford was honoured to help celebrate this significant milestone.
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COSFORD NEWS
Air Traffic Control
Year of Achievement and Team Success From major airfield infrastructure improvements and the return of civilian engagement activities to long-service recognition, promotions, charitable achievement and the final RAF Cosford Air Show, 202526 has been a landmark year for RAF Cosford Air Traffic Control. Major resurfacing works were completed on RAF Cosford’s runway and taxiway infrastructure, enhancing airfield capability and supporting future flying operations. Personnel from Airfield Operations gather on the newly resurfaced runway during RAF Cosford Air Show 2026.
Welcoming Visitors Back
Investing in the Future (Above). One of the most significant developments during the year was the completion of major runway and taxiway resurfacing works. The project represented a substantial investment in RAF Cosford’s aviation infrastructure and will support safe and effective flying operations for years to come.
Looking After More Than Aircraft
For the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2022, Air Traffic Control welcomed civilian visitors back to the airfield. The return of visits has provided an opportunity to showcase the professionalism and expertise required to safely manage air traffic at RAF Cosford.
The team (left) were proud to support RAF Cosford Air Show 2026, a particularly significant occasion as the final event before the transition to the RAF Air Show from 2027. As always, ATC personnel worked behind the scenes to ensure the safe and efficient management of participating aircraft, contributing to another successful event for visitors and aviation enthusiasts alike.
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Not all ATC activity involved aircraft this year. After discovering a hedgehog on the airfield during exceptionally hot weather, members of the ATC team stepped in to ensure its safety. The hedgehog was transported to Cuan Wildlife Rescue Centre in Much Wenlock, where it received specialist care before being returned to the wild.
COSFORD NEWS
People, Heritage & Community ATC HIGHLIGHTS 2025-26
Celebrating Dedicated Service - Lisa Howe (Above) As part of a recently introduced initiative recognising the commitment, expertise and professionalism of the Civil Service workforce, Lisa Howe was proudly recognised for reaching an impressive milestone of 25 years’ service.
Going the Distance (Above) After years of charity fundraising through trail running events supporting both RAFA and SSAFA, SATCO Flt Lt James Nicholas completed a 100-mile ultra-marathon challenge. The achievement represented the culmination of years of dedication and fundraising while continuing to support charities that provide invaluable assistance to serving personnel, veterans and their families.
Farewell and Good Luck Jonathan Francis After nine years serving within RAF Cosford Air Traffic Control, Jonathan Francis departed for a new role at Wolverhampton Airport. Jonathan’s professionalism and experience have made a lasting impact on the team, We wish him every success in his new venture.
• Runway and taxiway resurfacing completed • Civilian visitors welcomed back • 25 years of Civil Service recognised • Promotion to Sergeant • Farewell after nine years’ service • Final RAF Cosford Air Show • New ATC team badge • Squadron print • Remembrance Parade representation • Annual Formal Reception delivered • 100-mile ultra-marathon completed • RAF LEAD Graduate • Hedgehog saved from runway heat • MOD RISE development programme
Investing in Our People Professional development remained a key focus with Ben Till successfully completing the MOD RISE Programme and Andrew Rumbles graduating from the RAF LEAD Programme, further strengthening the skills and leadership capability within ATC.
Promotion Success Andrew Rumbles The team was delighted to celebrate the promotion of Cpl Andrew Rumbles to Sergeant. He has made a significant contribution to the team. Everyone within ATC wishes him every success in the next chapter of his career.
2025-2026 has been a landmark year for RAF Cosford Air Traffic Control
COSFORD NEWS
Expanding capability across RAF Engineering The Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering at RAF Cosford recently delivered a pioneering Flight Line Operations trial for 10 Survival Equipment (SE) Air Technicians, equipping them with the skills to marshal aircraft and support pre-flight and post-flight maintenance activities. The initiative marked an important step in broadening the role of the SE specialisation within RAF Engineering, enhancing workforce flexibility, strengthening frontline resilience, and enabling
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personnel to contribute more directly to aircraft operations as Air Technicians. Students will now continue their development through type-specific line training on Hawk, Typhoon and BBMF aircraft.
COSFORD NEWS
RAF Cosford welcomes Air Cdre Reid to open new Officers’ Mess annex RAF Cosford welcomed Air Commodore Phillip Reid, Head of Air Infrastructure, to the Station as part of his ongoing programme of visits across the RAF. During his visit, Air Cdre Reid officially opened the new Officers’ Mess Annex before touring the facility and meeting personnel involved in its delivery. The new annex represents a significant enhancement to accommodation and facilities at RAF Cosford, supporting the Station’s commitment to providing a modern, fitfor-purpose environment for its people.
NO.1 RADIO SCHOOL
Command Handover Number 1 Radio School Command of Number 1 Radio School at RAF Cosford was handed over from Wing Commander Littlefield to Wing Commander Gray on 28 August 2026.
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COSFORD NEWS
New Leadership for RAF Aircraft Engineering Apprentices Trust On Friday 18 September, Air Commodore (Retired) Tony formally handed over as Chair of the RAF Aircraft Engineering Apprentices Trust to Officer Commanding No.1 School of Technical Training, Wing Commander Beth. With its origins at RAF Halton, the Trust has a proud history of recognising and celebrating excellence among RAF Aircraft Engineering Apprentices, while preserving the standards, heritage and professional ethos of the apprenticeship community. Supported by trustees from across the Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering (DSAE), the Engineering Profession Advisory Team (EPAT), and former apprentices, No.1 SoTT is honoured to take on leadership of the Trust and continue advancing its charitable mission.
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COSFORD NEWS
RAF Cosford exercises Grant of Approbation in Albrighton On 12 September 2026, RAF Cosford proudly exercised its Grant of Approbation with a ceremonial parade through the village of Albrighton, a privilege bestowed by the Parish Councils of Albrighton and Donington with Boscobel on 8 August 1998. Led by RAF Cosford personnel, the parade saw service members march with Colours flying and arms borne, proudly displaying Royal Air Force traditions while celebrating the enduring partnership between the Station and the local community. Residents, veterans, parish representatives and distinguished guests lined the route to mark the occasion and recognise the strong bond that has united RAF Cosford and the
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which are traditionally borne by commissioned officers, RAF Cosford’s standard is carried by non-commissioned Royal Air Force personnel, reflecting the Station’s proud training heritage and the contribution of generations of aviators who have served from Cosford.
parish for nearly three decades. RAF Cosford Station Commander, Wing Commander Ruth attended as the Senior Military Representative and took the salute alongside the Lord-Lieutenant, reaffirming the close relationship between RAF Cosford and the communities it serves.
At the heart of the parade was RAF Cosford’s King’s Colour, proudly carried through Albrighton by AR Emily as a symbol of the Station’s loyalty, service and commitment to the nation. Uniquely, unlike every other unit or station colour across the Armed Forces,
The parade not only commemorated the Grant of Approbation but also celebrated the continued support, friendship and mutual respect shared between RAF Cosford and the people of Albrighton and Donington with Boscobel. The day’s events concluded with a formal meal hosted by Albrighton Parish Council, bringing together military and civic representatives to further strengthen these valued ties. A proud day of heritage, service and community, demonstrating the lasting connection between RAF Cosford and the local area and celebrating a partnership that continues to thrive. By AS1 Nathan
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What does a Survival Equipment Air Technician career look like? Earlier this year, trainees within the Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering at RAF Cosford heard firsthand from personnel serving on Apache, Chinook, Typhoon, F-35, ISTAR, Air Mobility and Parachute Engineering units. Their insights into operations, deployments, travel and life on the frontline helped inspire the next generation of Survival Equipment Air Technicians.
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RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC)
Aim High Challenge yourself and experience true flight by piloting an aircraft using nothing but nature’s energy to stay aloft.
COSFORD NEWS High above the crowd at the 2026 RAF Cosford Air Show, AR Brad Lelfley-Kemp turns to commence his glider aerobatics display
Like launching any aircraft, getting airborne in a glider requires a team effort and RSGC’s Mechanics Pre-flight checks complete. AR Grace Endowment Fund (MEF) gliding Jones waits to launch with RSGC bursary programme offers a valuable opportunity for personal instructor Simon Adlard development, for confidencebuilding, personal challenge and team building. The sense of achievement after your first flight piloting a glider is no different to that of any other pilot in the RAF completing their first flight. And then sky’s the limit as demonstrated by RAF Cosford trainee AR Brad Lefley-Kemp at this year’s RAF Cosford Air Show. Sandwiched between displays by the AAC Apache and the RAF Typhoon, those watching on the ground witnessed a wonderful showcase for the grace of unpowered flight demonstrated by Brad on his first public display. It was testament to his hard work and dedication whilst also completing his studies at RAF Cosford. If you wany to aim high and are in Phase 1 and 2 training at RAF Cosford further details and an application form are on the RSGC website at https://www. rafshawburygc.co.uk/mefbursary. Club Membership is open to Service Personnel and their families, MOD Civilians and Defence partners.
Launch point cockpit brief before your first flight at RAF Shawbury. AR Tom Millmore is with RSGC instructor Will Dean
For enquiries contact Sqn Ldr Ben Braddick Benjamin. Braddick337@mod.gov.uk, Sqn Ldr Alan Swan alan.swan143@ mod.gov.uk or Ian Gallacher ian.gallacher375@mod.gov.uk any of whom will be delighted to answer your questions. Additionally, they are available by either ModNET or on Teams. Above: Downwind for RAF Shawbury’s runway 36 in RSGC’s ASK 21 glider, AR Matthew Jones is with instructor RAFAC Wg Cdr Colin Haynes
AR Lewis Bennett in one of RSGC’s ASK21 gliders is on tow to 2,000ft with instructor Will Dean
Old friends meet again. 605 Sqn RAuxAF Reservist Cpl Carl Dean joins RSGC instructor and veteran John Pickard for a trip in RSGC’s ASK 21. John is an aeronautical mechanical instructor in the Mechanical Training Flight at RAF Cosford. Both formerly served together with Staffordshire Police.
Ready to launch on one of RSGC’s ASK21 gliders, AR Ethan Burton is with instructor and RAF veteran Nick Lewinton COSFORD APPRENTICE 17
Earlier in the year, we held our annual families’ day at RAF Cosford. Music, food, circus acts, along with other stalls and activities from across the station, were the order of the day. Thanks to everyone who worked so hard to organise the event, and to the RAF Benevolent Fund and RAF Cosford Air Show for the financial support that made it possible.
FAMILIES DAY
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You serve.
We support. The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional and practical support for the whole RAF Family. Discover the impact we’re making and how we can support you: rafbf.org/station-impact Scan me with your camera
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serving personnel and their families
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veterans, their families and the bereaved
50,000+
serving personnel and family members benefitted from community and station-based activities and events The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109). Eligibility criteria apply, visit our website for more details.
RAF Benevolent Fund Impact Report shows continued support for RAF Cosford through 2025 The latest RAF Benevolent Fund Impact Report has just been published, revealing how the charity continued to support members of the RAF Family through vital practical, emotional and financial support last year. In 2025, the RAF Benevolent Fund directly supported more than 33,600 members of the RAF Family and delivered assistance in 28 countries worldwide, reaching beneficiaries ranging in age from three months to 103 years old. The Fund supported 16,189 serving personnel and their families during the year, while 17,452 veterans, their families and the bereaved received dedicated support designed to meet their individual needs. Alongside this direct assistance, more than 52,000 people benefited from community and station-based activities and events, helping members of the RAF Family build connections, access support and strengthen wellbeing. In 2025, RAF Cosford was given over £9,000 in grants, including over £8,300 towards BenPlay and BenParenting, £500 towards Operation Christmas and a Christmas grant of £350 to support duty personnel. Chief Executive of the RAF Benevolent Fund, Air-Vice Marshal
Chris Elliot said: “Our latest Impact Report reflects the difference we made together for members of our RAF Family during 2025. Behind every statistic is a person, family or veteran who received the support they needed and what stands out for me is the impact that timely support can have on people’s lives. Whether that is financial assistance, help with wellbeing, or simply knowing that someone is there when times are tough, our work is about ensuring that members of the RAF Family never have to face challenges alone.” The RAF Benevolent Fund invested £16.8 million in welfare services in 2025. Through this support, the Fund enabled people to access personalised support, improve their wellbeing, increase their
independence, and enhance their overall quality of life. The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional and practical assistance to serving and former RAF personnel and their families, from welfare breaks and grants to mental health support, youth programmes and more. You can view the full 2025 Impact Report here.
Scan the QR Code for the full Impact Report COSFORD APPRENTICE 21
COSFORD NEWS
Royal Air Force School of Physical Training, RAF Cosford
Fit4Life The annual Station Fit4Life day event took place at the RAF SofPT on Wed 29 Jul 26.
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he event was organised by SofPT Cpls’ Connor and Jason who brought together elements from across the unit and external presenters to provide a focussed health and wellbeing day for all staff, trainees and families at Cosford.
Personnel were able to try out new activities such as kayaking, golf, fencing and Brazilian Ju Jitsu as well as seek health and wellness advice from experts. As well as the opportunity to showcase the wide and varied activities available to all at Cosford, the event also raised funds for the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital-based Lingen Davies Cancer Fund charity through a series of fitness and sports challenges, prize raffles and a hugely popular cake sale organised by Mrs Steph Bell from the SofPT planning office. Overall, an amazing total of £2169.43 was raised for the cancer charity from events on the day and challenges run throughout July 26.
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WEARING THEIR NAMES Every year, as the clocks go back and the poppies appear, the parcels arriving at our workshop begin to feel different. November brings us medals that have spent most of the year in a drawer, a jewellery box, or still wrapped in the tissue paper somebody folded around them decades ago. They arrive with notes. Sometimes just a name and a squadron number. Sometimes a whole life set down longhand, because the person sending them wants us to know exactly who it is we are handling. That is the part of this work I did not fully anticipate when I took Award Medals forward. A medal group is not really an object. It is a record of where someone stood, what was asked of them, and what it cost. When a family sends us their father's or grandfather's medals to be mounted, they are trusting us with the only physical evidence remaining of a period of his life he may never have described to them. In the RAF family, remembrance is rarely abstract. It sits in squadron histories, in the aircraft still preserved and flown, in the names read out at station services, and in the remarkable number of people who know precisely where a relative served and when.
www.awardmedals.com
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We see it most clearly in the medals that come to us to be worn on the right breast. A son, a daughter, a grandchild, wearing what somebody else earned, standing where that person can no longer stand. There is no more direct expression of remembrance than that. So this is the busiest period of our year, and it is also the one we approach most carefully. Every group is checked against the correct order of wear. Every ribbon is cut and pressed properly. Everything is packed to travel home safely. We hold ourselves to that standard not because anyone is checking, but because the person who sent them will open that parcel and see their father's service laid out in front of them. As a veteran, and now as somebody entrusted with these things by other families, I have come to think that remembrance is not really an event in November. It is a habit. It is the willingness to keep saying names out loud long after the people who answered to them have gone. This month, whether you wear your own medals or somebody else's, wear them well. They were earned, and the wearing of them matters. Nathan Lea Owner of Award Medals
info@awardmedals.com
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COSFORD NEWS
GRADUATIONS
Celebrating some of 2026’s graduations…
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COSFORD GLIDING CLUBNEWS NEWS
COSFORD APPRENTICE 27
SPORTS NEWS
RAF Carp Angling Development
Event 1
deploying zigs at varying depths in hopes of intercepting cruising fish. Despite the effort and the encouraging conditions no bites materialised, leaving the team to reassess their tactics as the day unfolded.
Pegasus Lake 1 Vity-leFrancois France Seventeen members of the RAF Carp Team travelled across the Channel for the first Carp Angling Development Event of the year, heading to the renowned Pegasus Lake 1 in Vitry-le-François, France. Set in the picturesque heart of the Champagne region, the venue provided an exciting yet unfamiliar challenge. Providing an ideal setting for the team to sharpen their skills, adapt to new conditions, and test their abilities on continental waters. Lake 1 itself is a 30-acre gravel pit, dug in 2007, and known for its diverse and demanding underwater terrain. Anglers faced a mix of substrates clay, weed, clean gravel, and soft silt. This paired with average depths of 8 to 12 feet kept the anglers carefully thinking about presentation and tactics. Add in the enticing snaggy margins, the lake presented an abundance of tactical options for those prepared to adapt and explore. With an estimated stock of around 1,500 fish, three breaking the 60lb barrier and more than twentyfive exceeding 50lb, this venue had every angler on the trip quietly salivating at the potential for something special. The team arrived in the early hours of Saturday morning, eager to begin their lake familiarisation and introduction. Greeted
warmly by lake owner Pete, whose hospitality immediately set the tone for the week, the anglers were briefed on the venue rules and given valuable guidance ahead of the match. With the formalities complete, the team moved out onto the banks to explore Pegasus Lake?1, carefully assessing each swim and weighing up the strategic possibilities. Once everyone had surveyed the water and formed their early opinions, it was time for the allimportant watercraft draw, approached with crossed fingers and quiet hopes as each angler wished for an early pick to secure their preferred spot. With the draw complete and swims allocated, the team made their way around the lake to settle in and begin the next crucial phase: investigating the lakebed. Markers were cast, depths were checked, and features were mapped out in detail as each angler built a picture of what lay beneath the surface. Some elected to introduce a bed of
bait straight away, aiming to prime their chosen areas before the all-in at 0900 the following morning. As preparations took shape, the aroma of hearty pizzas, kindly provided by Pete, drifted across the lake, offering the perfect warmup meal before the competition ahead.
Later that night, the first bite of the event finally came. Cpl Jordan, fishing PVA bags confidently, was rewarded with a solid 35lb 11oz common carp, an excellent fish to open the account for the team. His momentum continued into the early hours of the next morning. As dawn broke, Jordan once again leant into a powerful common, this time sliding a 32lb 5oz fish over the net cord. Jordan was off to a flyer, his early success setting the benchmark for the rest of the field and injecting fresh energy into the banks for the new day.
As a stunning sunrise broke through the margin trees, the anglers emerged from their bivvies with fresh optimism, hoping to spot early signs of fish activity in their areas. At 0900 the allin was officially called. Some anglers opted to top up their already primed spots, reinforcing their baited patches in anticipation of the first bite of the match. Others took a different approach, dispatching PVA bags or casting single hook baits to promising features that had caught their attention during the previous day’s observations.
Sadly, the following day passed with only a single bite between the 17 anglers, AS1 Ross managing to catch a 17lb 08oz common beating his previous personal best. With daytime temperatures climbing to 18°C before plummeting to just 1°C at night and high pressure dominating throughout, the conditions were far from ideal. These sharp fluctuations made the carp sluggish and unpredictable, leaving the team with a real challenge as they worked hard to tempt one of the lake’s elusive residents.
As the sun climbed higher in the sky and the wind gradually eased, the conditions began to look textbook perfect for zig rigs. Several anglers quickly adapted,
On Wednesday morning, just as the anglers were preparing to wind in ahead of the BBQ, WO Matthew finally received some welcome action. Fishing with single hook baits, he connected with a lively common carp, bringing a 17lb 14oz fish safely to the net, a well earned result in challenging conditions. With the practice match now concluded, the winning pair was announced: Cpl Jordan and Sgt Martyn, whose two fish produced a combined total of 68lb, securing them the top spot. The team then gathered for the BBQ, where tactics were dissected in detail. More experienced anglers took the opportunity to share insights and offer guidance to those newer to the squad, creating an open, supportive
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SPORTS NEWS
learning environment that underpins the ethos of the RAF Carp Team. Keen to get back into their swim, WO Matthew and Chf Tech Matthew made a swift exit from the BBQ. With many of the other anglers still socialising, it wasn’t long before someone noticed Chf Tech Matthew bent into a fish. Word spread quickly, and before long a crowd had gathered in his swim to watch the action unfold. Under the weight of expectation and with all eyes fixed on him, Matthew stayed composed and expertly played the fish to the net. Moments later, he safely slipped a 26lb 14oz mirror carp over the cord, a brilliant capture under immense pressure. It was a memorable moment for everyone present and one that provided a welcome boost of inspiration across the team. In the early hours of Thursday morning, Sgt Luke connected with something clearly out of the
ordinary. The fish held firm on the bottom, refusing to budge, and it quickly became evident that he was attached to a real powerhouse. What followed was 45 minutes of legshaking, nervetesting action as Luke inched the fish closer, applying steady pressure but unable to rush the battle. At last, a huge mirror carp broke the surface and slid gracefully over the net cord. The fish was an absolute unit, and the scales confirmed just how special it was, tipping the needle at 49lb 12oz, the biggest capture of the entire event. It was a remarkable achievement, and a moment Luke won’t forget any time soon. As the sun rose once again Chf Tech Paul burst into action landing a new personal best, a mirror weighing 36lb 03oz. Just
moments later, next door WO Matthew’s alarm let rip, after a steady battle he was greeted with a 41lb 12oz mirror, proving his choice of fishing singles was the ticket. Later that day it was time for the coaching element of the event to begin. WO Matthew, AS1 Zachary, and Cpl Luke led a group of the less experienced anglers over to Lake 2 for a focused tuition session. Throughout the morning, anglers made significant progress. Some achieving monumental gains in casting distance and accuracy, while others learned how to identify and interpret a range of underwater features. The handson coaching not only helped refine key skills but also reinforced the developmental purpose of the event, ensuring every angler left with new
Anyone interested in Carp Fishing or for further information please contact Sgt Martyn Milward: martyn.milward300@mod.gov.uk
knowledge and increased confidence for future matches. On the penultimate morning, action on Lake 2 finally kicked off when Cpl Tim was first to receive a take. Fishing solo, he kept his composure and was soon rewarded with a new personal best, a stunning 30lb common that glided smoothly into his net. Meanwhile, over on Lake 1, several more anglers were also getting in on the action. Sgt Lloyd, Cpl Steve, and AS1 Owen all went on to land impressive fish over the 30lb mark, adding further excitement and momentum to what had already become a highly productive day across both lakes. Sadly, the final night and following morning passed without any further action, bringing the event’s fishing to a close. However, with 21 fish landed in challenging conditions, four new personal bests, and countless individual skills tested, refined, and improved, the development event was undoubtedly a huge success. RAF Carp Fishing is the fastest growing Angling discipline within the Armed Forces. Membership gives you access to 6 pairs events throughout the season, RAF Championships, Inter-Services and numerous development events. On top of this RAF Carp members have access to some fantastic discounts with companies such as Korda, Dynamite, Sticky and Mainline. COSFORD APPRENTICE 29
SPORTS NEWS
Cosford Kayak Club
Makingfrom Waves Poolside to Podium The Cosford Kayak Club continues to go from strength to strength, introducing new paddlers to the sport while producing athletes capable of competing at the highest levels of Service competition.
Photos courtesy of Photo Section RAF Wyton
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SPORTS NEWS
T
he club recently enjoyed a highly successful Fit for Life Day on 29 July, delivering kayaking taster sessions to more than 150 trainees and staff. Throughout the day, participants had the opportunity to get on the water, learn basic paddle skills, and experience some of the exciting disciplines that make kayaking such a varied and rewarding sport. Established in October 2024 with support from the RAF Central Fund, the club has quickly become a thriving part of station life. Operating on Monday evenings from 19:00 to 21:00 in the station swimming pool, sessions cater for all abilities, from complete beginners through to experienced paddlers. Members can learn fundamental kayaking skills, develop confidence in the water, master the kayak roll, try flatwater freestyle moves such as cartwheels and front flips, or take part in the fast-paced team sport of kayak polo.
demonstrating the effectiveness of the club’s supportive coaching environment and regular training opportunities.
One of the club’s greatest successes has been its ability to develop novice paddlers. Several members who first joined the club with no prior kayaking experience have gone on to represent the RAF Canoeing Association at both Single-Service and Inter-Service Championships,
The club’s competitive credentials were once again on display at the 2026 Freestyle Kayaking Inter-Services Championship, where the outgoing Officer in Charge and club founder, Flt Lt Jake Southern, and incoming Officer in Charge, Flt Lt Jamie Easton, both competed against
Photo courtesy of Photo Section RAF Wyton
the best paddlers from across the Armed Forces. Jamie narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing in an impressive fifth place, while Jake secured the Men’s Gold Medal, capping off another successful season. Reflecting on the result, Jake said: “Freestyle kayaking is a difficult sport to train for, where you are reliant on having easy access to suitable training locations. Based at Cosford, we’re lucky to have the station pool as well as a local training spot on the River Severn at Jackfield. Plus, easy access into the network of rivers in North Wales. Making the most of these played a huge part in my performance this year.” The Inter-Services event also hosted the Kayak Cross InterService Championship, a fast-paced discipline that sees paddlers racing head-to-head down a challenging section of white water, combining speed, boat handling and tactical decision-making. Building on their freestyle performances, both Cosford paddlers achieved podium finishes, with Jamie claiming the Silver Medal and Jake taking Bronze.
Group photo from a recent Cosford Kayak Club session
Following their performances across both disciplines, Jake and Jamie have been selected to represent the UKAF Freestyle
Kayaking Team at the upcoming European Championships, further highlighting the calibre of paddlers emerging from RAF Cosford. Away from competition, the club has remained busy throughout August, delivering additional kayaking sessions in support of the station’s visiting Air Cadet camps. These activities have introduced even more young people to the sport and have helped showcase the opportunities available through RAF adventurous training and sport. Whether your goal is to improve water confidence, learn a new skill, stay fit, enjoy a social sporting environment, or even progress to representativelevel competition, the Cosford Kayak Club offers something for everyone. No previous kayaking experience is required, and new members are always welcome. Anyone interested in joining or finding out more should contact Jamie at Jamie.Easton105@mod. gov.uk and come along to see what all the excitement is about. Your kayaking journey could start with a single session and take you all the way to representing the RAF and UK Armed Forces on the international stage. COSFORD APPRENTICE 31
SPORTS NEWS
RAF Cosford Motorcycle Club
“A Devil’s Bridge Too Far”
by Sgt Alex Woods
When we started these motorcycle-based Staff Rides at Cosford three years ago, the aim was simple: combine a passion for motorcycling with meaningful Force Development (FD) whilst bringing people together from across the station. A Devil’s Bridge Too Far, our latest ride into Mid Wales, demonstrated exactly why the concept continues to work so well. The day started at the museum, where ten riders assembled for a group photo in front of two “mighty” Jet Provosts. With an almost equal split between club members and personnel from across the wider Cosford community, it was clear we had gathered a proper diverse mix of people and machines! MPGS, 1 SofTT, 2 SofTT, 1RS and Logistics staff would all be riding together on an eclectic range of bikes, from modern sports tourers like Dave Bakers Kawasaki ZX1000 to big adventure bikes like Tim Dillons BMW 1200GS. Cruisers would be represented by Steve Bugg on a Triumph America whilst I’d be championing modern classics on my Honda Blackbird. For something a little different, we even had Melv’s “adventure scooter” along! Following a short safety brief, we departed Cosford in three groups, heading towards the Shropshire
Hills. The groups would meet up at various stops throughout the day but travelled separately to maintain safe spacing on the road and minimise disruption to other traffic.
Penybont and Rhayader. A brief rain shower, a road closure and The weather was on our side, and some rogue sheep failed to the first part of the route provided dampen our spirits as we entered a nice mix of roads through some the stunning Elan Valley. Even on of the best countryside the Welsh a route packed with spectacular border region has to offer. The scenery, this region didn’t fail B4368 carried us all the way to to impress! Following National Clun for morning brews, giving Cycle Route 81, the narrow roads everyone an opportunity to settle hugged the valley sides, featuring into the day and meet riders from switchback bends, ancient different areas of the station. bridges and dramatic views. In short, everything a motorcyclist Refreshments were funded could wish for, all within a through the sale of motorcycle convenient day’s ride of camp! equipment previously donated by a former club member, allowing Craig Goch Dam was chosen all participants to be catered for as the focal point for the day’s at no cost. Thanks to Mac McG for FD activity. Before the ride, organising this! participants had been allocated a topic to research, covering From Clun, we crossed into Wales subjects ranging from the and followed the A488 through history of the dams as a military training area to its role in the development of the bouncing bomb. Discussion also focused on the importance of critical national infrastructure and resilience. Rather than discussing concepts in a classroom, standing beside a historically important piece of national infrastructure added a huge amount of relevance and riding a group of motorcycles across the narrow road on top of the dam was an unforgettable experience too!
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The presentations sparked discussion about the relationship between infrastructure and defence, and how water, energy, comms and transport networks can hold significant strategic importance despite being civilian in nature. Amid a summer of sustained heat and very little rainfall, it felt especially appropriate to be visiting the source of the water that supplies much of the West Midlands. Standing amongst the reservoirs of the Elan Valley, we were struck by the foresight of those who, more than a century ago, recognised the region’s growing need for a reliable water supply. Their ambitious engineering project continues to deliver immense value today, helping protect our area from the shortages and restrictions experienced elsewhere in the country. It was a powerful reminder that long-term planning and investment can continue to benefit society for generations. Engagement was outstanding with participants challenging each other, sharing perspectives and exploring how the protection of critical national infrastructure remains relevant to modern defence.
Returning to the bikes, the route continued through the Elan Valley before climbing onto the Aberystwyth Mountain Road, arguably one of the finest motorcycling roads in Britain. This long, twisting route snakes through the Welsh mountains, linking flowing bends, elevation changes and spectacular vistas in a way that seems purposebuilt for two wheels. Surrounded by vast open countryside, the scenery is every bit as memorable as the riding itself. In many places the landscape feels timeless, and unchanged for centuries. If you were ever going to stumble across a Welsh dragon basking on a mountainside, this would be the place! At Cwmystwyth Lead Mine we paused once again, using the location as an opportunity for an informal roadcraft discussion. Examples from the day’s ride generated useful discussion about observation, positioning, planning and safe riding techniques. From there, we visited Hafod Arch for a quick photo op before finally arriving at Devil’s Bridge for a well-earned rest and lunch stop at Woodlands café, a popular stop for bikers in the Welsh countryside.
All too soon it was time to head home. The return journey took us along the A489 through Newtown and the Shropshire Hills, before passing through Church Stoke and joining the always-thrilling, and often deserted, B4371 through Church Stretton and Much Wenlock. Riders gradually peeled away towards their respective destinations, with the final group returning to camp shortly after 1700 hrs.
If you would like to join us on a future ride-out, we’d love to hear from you!
A Devil’s Bridge Too Far achieved everything we hoped it would. The ride delivered meaningful FD and reinforced safe riding practices. Most importantly, it brought together bikers from across unit, strengthening connections whilst ensuring everyone returned home safely after a memorable day on two wheels. With the support of FD Flight and the Station, the motorcycle community at Cosford continues to go from strength to strength. Building on more than 40 years of RAF Cosford Motorcycle Club heritage, these rides combine safe, responsible motorcycling with FD and a shared passion for two wheels.
COSFORD APPRENTICE 33
SPORTS NEWS
Pulling Power
By Sqn Ldr Gareth Davies
The sport of Tug of War is building momentum in the Royal Air Force with clubs and athletes dotted around many of our Stations and establishments. We are always on the lookout for good people (Regular, Reserves, civil service and Service Family members) of any size, gender or fitness level to give the sport a go, you just need to be willing to learn, do some training and be open minded enough to throw away stereo types that the sport is exclusive to huge farmers at county shows! It is currently one of the fastest growing sports across Defence with clubs up and down the country competing at military and civilian events. The formed RAF Ladies, mens and mixed teams has been through a resurgence winning medals at inter service level, competing at the Service league and a mixed military team winning at the parliament pull in the grounds of the Palace of Westminster in front of celebraty and the media. 2026 offered the added incentive
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that at least 2 RAF teams would get invited to enter the Royal Highland Games to compete in front of the King in September. The sport simply involves moving backwards for just 4 metres – easy!!! This is a multi-person and technical sport that will involve teamwork, determination and focus. Like boxers, the sport is governed by weight categories so anyone can have a go and be good at it, the RAF has pullers weighing as
little as 60kg up to 130kg, no one gets excluded. The categories include men’s, ladies and mixed teams of 8 people for normal competitions and 6 people for novice events and the RAF Champs which was contested at RAF Cosford as part of the wider RAF Athletics championships on 17 Jun. This year was a big year for the RAF teams who had additionally
been invited to compete at the Kent Military Show, the Army Championships and the prestigious ‘Gunner Pull’ competing against teams from all 3 services. All the kit and training required was supplied, we had entry fees arranged, qualified coaches in place and authorities via the sports board. We even had the support of RAF Central Funds so that our membership can apply for grants.
Interested? Then contact Sqn Ldr Gareth Davies (Head of RAF TOW) at gareth.davies599@mod.gov.uk or FS Hawkins (Team manager) mike.hawkins711@mod.gov.uk
We offer FREE memberships to the mindfulness app Headspace, for RAF serving personnel and their partners. Experience guided mindfulness exercises in bite-sized 10-minute sessions – perfect for busy schedules
Sign up today: rafbf.org/headspace Or call: 0300 102 1919
Helps improve mood, deeper relaxation and better sleep quality The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109). Eligibility criteria apply, visit our website for more details.
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