Excalibur

Excalibur THE MAGAZINE OF ROYAL AIR FORCE LEEMING

Spring 2022

I N THIS ISSUE: 1 0 0 S QUA DRON - END OF AN ER A | 6 07 S QUA D RON R AUXA F | R A F M O UN TA I N RES CU E S E R V I C E PLUS M UCH M ORE. . .

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS

EDITORIAL TEAM

OIC: Flt Lt JC Cartmell | Email: Joanna.cartmell930@mod.gov.uk EDITOR: Cpl Lenny Austin MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER: Mrs Lynn Dunne - BSW HQ - Ext 7281

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE...

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Editorial Station Commander’s Foreword HIVE News RAF Leeming Police Community Engagement Event News from the Met Office 90SU Support COP26 Ex YORKNITE 2021 34 Sqn News 100 Squadron News RAF Leeming in Pictures RAF Mountain Rescue Service News Tactical Communications Wing 607 (County of Durham) Sqn RAuxAF News RAF Leeming Saddle Club News Yorkshire UAS

A fond farewell to 100 Sqn - see article on pages 14/15

Date for next issue: Submissions for the Summer issue by 13th May 2022.

Please send any articles and photos to: LEE-ExcaliburMagazine@mod.gov.uk Published by: Lance Media Group Ltd 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: 01536 334 226 Designed by: Jo Glen Advertising: Call Ken on: (01536) 334 225 This magazine contains official information and should be treated with discretion by the recipient. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice and are included in good faith. While everycare 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 consequence arising from it.

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OIC’S MESSAGE

By Flt Lt Cartmell We have probably all heard the phrase ‘team work makes the dream work’. It might be corny but it is true. Our Spring edition of Excalibur lifts the lid on a small corner of service life, with people achieving incredible feats and realising long held dreams.

B

ehind every achievement is a team greater than the sum of its parts.

Whether supporting behind the scenes by peeling potatoes or being the one crowned with glory in the centre of the ring, every article has an impressive array of people and their achievements, and stands on a pyramid of many more thousands who make such things possible.

Our cover image pays tribute to 100 Sqn, who disband after a glorious 105 years. Their legacy and spirit will endure – throughout all three UK armed services, our allies and NATO. We bid a sad farewell to WO Hamilton-Sturdy, a stalwart of 607 Sqn and an embodiment RAF ethos. Reservists are incredibly special in the dedication and diversity they bring to any team, and he was no exception. SAC Jac Lee shares her fascinating story as the only RAF Reservist chef to volunteer to support HMS Queen Elizabeth on an 8 month epic tour. Napoleon was not speaking lightly when

he said ‘an army marches on its stomach’!

We team up with Olympic champion, Alistair Brownlee.

His indomitable spirit and work ethic is astounding and humbling – but he would be the first to admit that his endeavours are only made possible with the right support network. You will find the article

by Sgt Greg Macdonald, and the part he played, absolutely mind-blowing!

Risking life and limb to bring those who are lost or injured to safety, we catch up with RAF Leeming Mountain Rescue Service and learn of their cooperation with Police Scotland and Her Majesty’s Coastguard over the festive period. There are many more wonderful exploits and achievements and we really hope you enjoy the read.

If you are interested in the joining the team, or wish to send in articles and photos for the next issue, please get in touch.

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BY STATION COMMANDER GROUP CAPTAIN GARETH PRENDERGAST, BA (HONS), LLM, MSC, RAF

Welcome to the latest instalment of Excalibur.

Already the year is moving at pace and there is no sign of it letting up. The frenetic pace means that it is sometimes difficult to take a moment to look around and take a breath or complete some of the more additional activities that are possible here on Station.

I

am keen to continue to keep a conversation going with the whole force and families that live and work here at Leeming.

I’ve already held some breakfast sessions and will continue to expand the opportunity for us to engage. I am excited at some of the possibilities and ideas that have already come out from the team, including looking at how we look at using the Barrel and Bean more effectively as a focal point for the Station and how we can better utilise the other facilities on the camp. I am also keen to make sure that we publicise events and activities in the right way to guarantee the opportunities for all of you to participate. I don’t claim a monopoly of good ideas and look forward to getting even more insight as I continue to learn from each of you.

The major change on Station over this period is the retirement of the Hawk TMk1 of 100 Sqn. A

FOREWORD

FOREWORD venerable unit with many battle honours they have been a part of the fabric of the Station for a long time and we will make sure that we see them off appropriately. A formal parade means some of our most senior officers will be here honouring the unit and I don’t expect there to be a dry eye in the house come the end of the day. I am incredibly pleased with the work and efforts of not just the Squadron team but the whole Station in ensuring that as many of the whole force as possible that work on the ton know exactly what they will be doing beyond 100 Sqn and hopefully the uncertainty is reduced to a minimum.

I am incredibly proud of the work and efforts of all across the Station as we have worked to support the government and our allies in Eastern Europe. Whether this is through working within your primary roles or being part of an augmentation team to conduct

’’

planning and set the groundwork to stand alongside our partners and be ready to adapt to any circumstances I am certain that we are ready. And this brings me

The major change on Station over this period is the retirement of the Hawk TMk1 of 100 Sqn. A venerable unit with many battle honours they have been a part of the fabric of the Station for a long time and we will make sure that we see them off appropriately.

’’

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COMMUNITY NEWS

RAF Leeming

The HIVE - an information network available to the whole Service community - serving personnel both Main areas of work: Relocation, Deployment support, Local Information, Education/Adult Education, Housing, Healthcare, Employment and Training Courses, Welfare Referrals.

The HIVE is here for the whole Service community, this includes single and married personnel, their dependants and civilian MOD employees.

The HIVE is an information and confidential referral service and offers arrival and deployment packs; and assists in the provision of operational deployment support.

Please feel free to call in and take a look at the extensive display of local places to visit ranging from leisure parks, museums, railways to scenic walks in the Yorkshire Dales.

HIVE CONTACTS:

STATION COMMUNITY FACILITIES: PLAY HANGAR

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 0900-1600hrs, Fri 0900-1130hrs.

The Play Hangar can be booked for private parties on Saturdays at the cost of £50, please contact a member of the Community Support team to book. Please note: the Play Hangar is kindly opened by volunteers (if available) on Sundays. Any Sunday openings will be advertised on Facebook.

RAF Leeming HIVE Information Officer: Laura Kilsby Email: LEE-HIVE-Info-Office@Mod.Gov.uk Tel: 01677 45 7734 Mobile: 07815 464770 Facebook: @RAFHIVELeeming Twitter: @RAFLEEHIVE

Please be aware the opening times for the Play Hangar and Imaginarium are dependent on staff availability.

STATION COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM

YOUTH CLUB

IMAGINARIUM

RAF Leeming’s very own Sensory Room.

Inductions are required before use of this facility; please contact the RAF Leeming Imaginarium Facebook page or a member of the Community Support team to book an induction.

RAF Leeming’s youth club (Airplay) is open for young people aged 5yrs and up. Sessions vary so please contact the Stn Youth Worker Mel Turnbull for details.

CHURCH CONTACTS: • Padre David C Haslam Tel: 01677 45 7930 | Duty mobile: 07971 355 311 Community Development Officer:

Ms Becki Taylor

Rebecca.Taylor400@mod.gov.uk

SCSO:

FS Dean Bradley

Dean.Bradley541@mod.gov.uk

• Chaplain’s Clerk: Mrs Jane Landers Tel: 01677 45 7280 | Email: Jane.Landers732@mod.gov.uk Chaplain’s Clerk opening hours: Mon-Thurs 0830-1815hrs.

RAF LEEMING EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION Is your loved one Deployed on Operations, on Exercise or a Course?

In the event of an EMERGENCY contact the following:

Youth Worker:

Mel Turnbull

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Children's Worker:

Sam Jones

leemingchildrensworker@gmail.com

Disclaimer RAF HIVEs cannot accept liability for the accuracy of information provided by external agencies nor does the inclusion of this information endorse the quality or reliability of goods and services displayed.

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For all UK locations RAF Leeming Main Guardroom | 01677 45 7961 For all Overseas locations (including N. Ireland) Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre: + (44) (0) 1452 519951 (Please have your loved one’s Number, Rank, Name and Location (if known) available) Access the following websites for Service Family Accommodation and North Yorkshire County Council information:

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LEEMING NEWS

RAF Leeming Police Community Engagement Event On the 17 Nov 21, RAF Leeming hosted a Community Engagement Event. Organised

by Cpl Liam Tomlinson, this was a fun afternoon for engagement with the younger population of the Community Centre and the Station Nursery. Leeming Children’s worker Mrs Samantha Jones helped to facilitate the event at the Community Centre and assisted in providing resources for the activities.

A

s part of a partnership with Local Neighbourhood Officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) from North Yorkshire Police, PC Norman supported the event, with resources kindly provided by North Yorkshire Police.

The event was a massive success! The children enjoyed taking part in making fingerprint key rings and ID badges, while also trying on the mini ‘police uniforms’. A huge highlight for all was being allowed to sit in the RAF Police and North Yorkshire Police vehicles - lights flashing and sirens on!

NEWS FROM THE MET OFFICE It’s been a busy start to the year at the Met Office with staff taking on several detachments to cover shifts at other Met Offices across the country. We bid a fond farewell to Kirstie afterCloud completing her training with us. She now Levante heads to Gibraltar for a few months of work before moving to her permanent station at RAF Valley. We wish her the best of luck for the future. Looking forwards, we will be excited to welcome new recruits in March - Joe and Graham.

W

e have seen some beautiful skyscapes this winter. Here are a few from a stunning display of Altocumulus Lenticularis clouds at sunset in December, and a little explanation as to why we sometimes see these UFO-type clouds at RAF Leeming.

form on the crest of these waves, hence their almond or saucer shape, and are situated at 7,00017,000 FT above the ground. As well as creating impressive cloud patterns, mountain waves also cause blustery winds at ground level: strong winds when the downward flow of the wave is overhead; light, variable winds when the upward flow of the wave is overhead.

Altocumulus Lenticularis clouds, ‘lenticular’ clouds for short, are formed by mountain wave activity. Mountain waves are See if you can spot some this year. generated when the wind flows perpendicular to a mountain range or ridge in combination with a stable atmosphere during high pressure weather patterns.

The mountains, the Pennines in our case, disrupt the airflow.

The stable atmosphere traps this perturbation in the flow, allowing it to propagate as a wave downstream. Lenticular clouds 8

LEEMING NEWS

90 Signals Unit

Support to COP26

The UK hosted the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 26th Conference of the Parties, also known as COP26, at the Scottish Event Campus, Glasgow over 31 Oct – 12 Nov 21.

Mission. 90SU deployed in support of the Air Component Commander and other RAF Force Elements to deliver UK and Coalition Information support across two locations: UK Police Silver Command – Glasgow QRA Forward.

Situational Awareness. This was 90SU’s first deployment of RAVEN in support of live operations in its digital backbone role. RAVEN is an operational concept demonstrator developed by 90SU technicians and has the potential to revolutionise

the deliver of Air information services. It provided a step change in the delivery of battlespace situational awareness to National Air and Space Operations Centre personnel in Glasgow.

The Swiss Air Force in Yorkshire

Ex YORKNITE 2021 YORKNITE 2021 is over and history. In December, the F/A18 Hornets and the Helvetic charter with the personnel of Detachment Two left RAF Leeming and the UK and landed happily back home in Switzerland.

Despite some adverse circumstances and one or the other technical and logistical challenges, the YORKNITE 2021 exercise - with the three subactivities YN21 Jet, YN21 Helo and Live-Firing LF21 - has been successful and a large part of the set goals was achieved.

In particular, we owe this success to your personal commitment and dedication to these activities of the Swiss Air Force in the UK! Many thanks for all of you whom have contributed to this brilliant achievement.

With these lines, I bid you farewell. YORKNITE 2021 was

my last exercise which was entrusted to me as Commander.

I thank you all for the impressive support, for your immense dedication, for your professionalism, for your enormous generosity and

above all for the wonderful friendships that have developed over the past years.

I was just one among many, inspired by the fascination of our magical job. New spirits will take

my place and shape and lead the coming exercises in their own way, but with the same devotion.

Aldo Lieutenant Colonel Aldo Wicki CDR YORKNITE 2021/DETCO Jet 9

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UNIT NEWS

34 Squadron

‘Win First, Fight After’ In the summer of 2021, members of 34 Sqn and 2 Force Protection (FP) Wing HQ deployed to Arizona, USA to take part in Exercise Red Flag Rescue. This rare opportunity to participate in a major United States Air Force (USAF) exercise provided our people with an opportunity to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures with the USAF specialist Para Rescue Teams and rotary assets. Operating as the only UK Ground Extraction Force, our personnel were operating in unfamiliar and challenging environments that were inaccessible in the UK.

U

pon returning to the UK in August 2021 post Exercise Red Flag Rescue, the remainder of the year saw the Sqn deploy personnel across the UK providing support to Op ESCALIN, South Wales Ambulance Service and the NHS vaccination programme.

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Even with relentless MACA taskings, the Sqn also generated and deployed a recce team to Nigeria to support the development of an Air FP cadre for the Nigerian Air Force Regt which will be followed by an STTT deployment due to begin in February 2022.

The latter months of 2021 also saw Sqn personnel deployed in support of many other Defence tasks including Fg Off Pickles detached to 2 Rifles for ASKARI STORM in Kenya; our Eng Flt deployed in support of Op KIPION, SHADER and BFSAI; broader DWRs to the BME, PJHQ (Ex JOINT PROTECTOR to Sweden) and other UK resilience tasks including individuals to support Strategic Command in Bicester.

In the midst of these deployments and commitments, the Sqn also celebrated its 70th Anniversary in November 2021. To mark the Sqn’s 70th Birthday we conducted a week of physical challenges to raise funds for RAFA and the Centurion’s Fund, including a gruelling 70-mile Tab over Hadrian’s Wall. Our week of celebrations ended with an All-Ranks Dining in Night, with past members of the Sqn in attendance and speaking about their time serving on 34 Sqn. A busy past six months for the Sqn also resulted in some outstanding sporting endeavours with Fg Off Young representing the RAF team

Nigeria will provide an excellent opportunity for our people to further contribute towards Defence’s growing commitment and already existing strong relationship with the Nigerian Armed Forces. We hope to update you on our time in Nigeria in our next article.

against the Army in rugby league. He also played for the RAF Regt team against the RAF Academy alongside SACs Greenwood, Hammond, and Johnson. Numerous Sqn members have also played for the Stn Football team and represented the Stn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu team. Cpl Whittaker and LCpl Worrall competed in an RAF MTB competition in 2021, before being chosen to represent the RAF team. Impressively, Sgt Church represented the RAF at Hockey, winning the InterServices. Between exercises and deployments, the Sqn also found the time to complete a two-week adventurous training package in the Lake District.

Our sporting achievements over the past six months

also returned an extremely impressive performance for the 34 Sqn Boxing Team at the Lord Wakefield’s 2021 event. SAC Pitt won the light heavyweight competition and was crowned as a Lord Wakefield champion.

After a period of annual leave over the festive period (December 2021), the Sqn returned in January 2022 and has spent the past few weeks conducting some mission essential training in preparation for a deployment to Nigeria. Some of this pre-deployment training has involved range work to perfect our marksmanship as well as some live field firing in a series of complex air-ground environment scenarios. Our forthcoming deployment to

To recap on the last 6 months, 34 Sqn is a values-based, purpose driven organisation that is delivering decisive change. Our people have performed above and beyond in every operational and training aspect. The Sqn has achieved an astonishing amount and our people should be justifiably proud. We have embraced a new ethos, nurtured an exceptional learning culture, pushed the boundaries of experimentation and developed Service leading capabilities whilst rigidly meeting our operational and training commitments. More than ever in 2022, 34 Sqn embraces its mindset of “win first, fight after”.

FEU DE FER – Fire from Iron #winfirstfightafter FS Paul Goodfellow – FS Information Activities, 34 Sqn RAF Regt 13

UNIT NEWS

100 Squadron

Well, what can I say? We have reached the end of an era. This will be my last article for Excalibur as by now everybody should know that 100 Sqn is to be disbanded on 31 Mar 22.

I

n fact, by the time you read this article, the hangar will be in the process of being cleared. The aircraft will have gone – some to act as fleet replacements for the Red Arrows, to ensure that they can continue to operate till the Out of Service date, whilst others will be disposed of for razor blades! The Sqn building will be all but empty with the aircrew having dispersed to new roles across the RAF or to have moved on to pastures new.

Alas, for several aircrew and groundcrew it marks the end of their careers as jobs in civvy street beckon, whilst for one it finally heralds retirement from the RAF after 43 years. Time to hang up his flying boots after a flying career that started in Jan 1979.

But enough about yours truly!

I thought I should take this opportunity to reflect a little on what 100 Sqn has achieved whilst I’ve been here at RAF Leeming over the last 6 years and recap on some of the earlier articles. The Sqn’s primary role has continued to be as the RAF’s dedicated Red Air Aggressor unit, on a daily basis providing adversaries for our Typhoon and more recently the F35 Lightning Forces. Such training has ranged from routine support of individual Sqns based at Lossiemouth, Coningsby and Marham to large scale Ex, such as Joint Warrior, often involving other NATO and partner nations in multi-element Combined Air Operations. And such support is not limited to Air assets. The Sqn is routinely tasked to support Special Forces training, usually in a Close Air Support role, together with contribution to Maritime and Land Components in their Ex. And whilst the aircraft has barely any advanced avionics save for a bolt-on GPS that even would look dated in a

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“One Away. 20 Seconds”

Trabant, I’d like to think we have always been able to punch well beyond our weight. And there aren’t many aircraft out there that after 48 years in production are still allowed to pull +8g and push to -3.5g, tribute to an exceptional piece of British aviation engineering by Hawker Siddeley. It even goes supersonic if pushed. Those sonic booms over Yorkshire aren’t always Typhoons!

But aside from the primary task, 100 Sqn’s diverse role has encompassed so much more.

A key task which the Hawk has performed even since its time at RAF Brawdy with 79 Sqn in the early 80s (yes. I was there too!) is the provision of support to the Joint Forward Air Control Training and Support Unit (JFACTSU), the unit which trains all UK military Forward Air Controllers from all 3 Services and Special Forces units. The culmination of that training is for the FAC to control the delivery of live weaponry and, as the only type left in RAF service that is capable of carrying ‘dumb’ practise bombs, we have been the sole means of support for both initial and continuation training.

Operational support has not just been restricted to UK based Ex. The Sqn has regularly deployed overseas to exploit its expertise as a Red Air Aggressor unit. Regular

Armed and Dangerous

participation at the Tactical Leadership Programme (TLP), based at Albacete Air Base in Spain, has pitted 100 Sqn assets against many NATO and partner nations, often leading the multi-national Red Air package in large COMAO air operations.

Indeed 100 Sqn aircrew were the first Red Air graduates from TLP. Further afield, the Sqn has also contributed to other major NATO reinforcement Ex, such as Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE in Norway during Oct 2018. At the time this was the largest NATO ARTICLE 5 reinforcement Ex of its kind since the Cold War and involved the Sqn (as the only UK air participant) acting in both an air defence capacity but also providing support to maritime interdiction operations and Close Air support sorties for multi-national BLUE Land assets.

In a Close Air Support capacity, the Sqn has also exported its training regularly for Land assets overseas, most recently on Ex CENTRAL HAWK at Kecskemet Air Base in Hungary. This Ex had Hungarian Gripen

the Sqn alternating between Close Air Support for Hungarian Army units to Dissimilar Air Combat Training (DACT) against the Hungarian Air Force Gripens.

And whilst deployed we also supported the European Helicopter Tactics Instructor Course (EHTI), an annual multinational helicopter tactics Ex, whose basing in recent years has seen us deploying to the Czech Republic, Sweden and Hungary. Such helicopter affiliation augments the training we regularly provide in UK to JHC, the Army Air Corps and RN helicopter units.

Away from providing direct support to the front line and taking advantage of the fact that 100 Sqn inherited several QFIs from the closure of 208 Sqn at RAF Valley, we were tasked in early 2019 to provide augmentation of HQ 22 Group’s Fast Jet (FJ) training output.

Seen initially as a stop gap measure to bolster the output from RAF Valley for just one

UNIT NEWS

8 Engines in close Formation plus 2 x Typhoons

course, such was its success that over the following 2.5 years, 100 Sqn successfully graduated 100% of its students from each of not one but 4 consecutive courses, a ‘stop gap’ measure that was dissolved just as our 5th course was completing ground school. This success stands as testament to 100 Sqn’s ability to adapt and absorb new roles without compromising extant operational support capability.

And whilst on the subject of additional tasking, if you ever wondered how those amazing airborne shots of F35s or B52s being escorted by Typhoons happen? They are not taken by the Typhoons or our US Allies.

They are courtesy of the RAF Leeming photo section, flying in the back seat of a 100 Sqn Hawk. An element of unseen but vital PR support. Add to this our regular participation in trials work, ranging from groundbased radar development to windfarm interference suppression, supporting UK

F35s first arrival from the United States Overhead Buckingham Palace

industry and it provides a measure of the diversity of daily tasking on the Sqn. First wave conducting F35 DACT, second wave helicopter affiliation and third wave JFACTSU Close Air Support is a typical day for the Sqn Programmers to juggle.

Outwith the routine but in a similar vein, whilst the crowds wow at the spectacle of massed mixed formations flying along the Mall for HM The Queen’s Birthday Flypasts, it is 100 Sqn that silently provides the ‘behind the scenes’ weather recce to determine whether the Event happens at all and then ‘whips’ each of the formations prior to the final run in to ensure the formations are immaculate. And speaking of the Mall, 100 Sqn was extremely privileged, having celebrated its own Centenary in 2017, to be tasked to participate in the RAF’s Centenary Flypast in 2018 over London, one of several events to mark the Centenary of the oldest independent Air Force in the World.

Hawk Sunset

So that’s a rough order of what has kept 100 Sqn (and me) busy over the last few years. An extremely diverse, challenging and very exciting role and a Sqn with such an incredibly rich heritage since its foundation on the fields of France with FE 2B aircraft in 1917. It has been my absolute privilege to be part of that heritage and I could think of nowhere better to serve my final tour.

But please remember… 100 Sqn was written off once before.

After the fall of Singapore in The Farewell Fin design

1942, the destruction of the Sqn’s ageing Vickers Wildebeest and the incarceration of its surviving crews, nobody thought it would ever return.

Yet only a year later, the Colour was once again hoisted.

Presented with a new Standard, the Sqn was reborn and went on to serve with distinction for the remainder of WWII and beyond. A Sqn’s spirit doesn’t die and one day, who knows, 100 Sqn in a new guise with new personnel may once again fly its Colour. Sarang Tebuan Jangan Dijolok.

‘Big Arrow’ over Canary Wharf

100 Sqn Cross St James’ Park

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Road safety week at the phantom line with the firefighters carrying out a car crash rescue

His Excellency Dr Khalid Al Attiyah (Qatari Dep PM and Minister of State for Defence) and The Rt Hon Ben Wallace MP (UK Secretary of State for Defence), visited RAF Leeming to mark the reformation of the Qatari Emirates Air Force (QEAF) Joint Hawk Training Squadron (JHTS)

A Qatari Hawk T2 arrives at RAF Leeming

RAF LEEMING

IN PICTURES

RAF Leeming Santa Run 2021 to raise money for RAFA on 1st December 2021 A 29 Sqn Typhoon from RAF Coningsby lands at RAF Leeming on 9th December 2021 due to a loose canopy

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Corporal Hannah Calton ran a Supercircuit session in the Station Gymnasium, which conducted of 20-minute circuit on the hour every hour for 5 hours

Handover of the Station Commander of RAF Leeming in North Yorkshire.

Group Captain Blythe Crawford is the outgoing Stn Commander, who is handing over to Group Captain Gareth Prendergast.

Members of the Panto Bus Theatre Group put on a pantomime on 26th November 2021 at the Primary School on RAF Leeming.

SAC Leah Jones, a Royal Air Force Photographer from RAF Leeming, taking photos on a job for National Apprenticeship Week

Quarter final of the RAF Cup, played at Bedale AFC between RAF Leeming and RAF Marham on 26th Jan 2022

AVM Suraya Marshall visited RAF Leeming to meet personnel and receive both 2 FP Wg and 90SU update briefs

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Family & Divorce I Property Purchase & Sales I Wills, Probate & Family Trusts Armed Forces Community I Defence Discount Service Members Darlington Northallerton 01325 281111 01609 765765 Email enquiries@clarkwillis.co.uk

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UNIT NEWS

RAF Mountain Rescue Service (MRS) For most of us, the 2021 holiday period was very poignant. Many came together to celebrate not one, but two festive periods following the previous years’ Covid-19 social restrictions. Across the country, countless people nursed themselves through the discomfort of full bellies - feet up and tv on. However, this was not the case for the Mountain Rescue Service (MRS)!

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knife-edge ridges - all whilst winter navigating through poor conditions. Not only did both teams improve their skillsets in navigation, but they also honed their scrambling techniques and practised self-protected abseiling using in-situ anchors.

On 28 Dec 21, VMRT were requested by Police Scotland to assist in the search of an overdue mountaineer who Between Valley Mountain Rescue had been attempting a very extensive, narrow ridgeline: Team (VMRT) and Lossiemouth ‘Aonach Eagach’. This is a MRT, personnel covered a total grade 2 winter route with distance of 257.24km as well as racking up 15,092m of climbing! very complex terrain. VMRT responded quickly, immediately To put that into perspective, searching high probability that’s just over 11 ascents of areas. A VMRT search party Ben Nevis! Between 23 Dec successfully located the missing 21 – 4 Jan 22, the two MRTs successfully achieved numerous person and carried out a casualty assessment, providing training objectives, including recognising and demonstrating warmth and relief to the cold and tired person. They were different types of ice axes and subsequently winched to safety crampons on varying ground.

by Her Majesty’s Coastguard This included down and across (HMCG). snow slopes, crags, gullies and ur MRS personnel continued to maintain a high readiness state to respond our primary role of Aircraft Post Crash Management (APCM), as well as our secondary role: Military Aid to Civilian Authority (MACA) taskings. This year, MRS provided support to Scottish Mountain Rescue and Glencoe Mountain Rescue.

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After a comprehensive period of individual and team learning coupled with live call-out experience, it is fair to say that RAF MRS continues to be in excellent stead for the year ahead and go from strength to strength. Whensoever!

Around the globe with TACTICAL COMMUNICATIONS WING Throughout the latter half of 2021, the Tactical Communications Wing (TCW) deployed several High Readiness and Deployed Operating Base Teams throughout the globe to provide Communications and Information Services enabling Operation FORTIS, the UK’s Carrier Strike Group deployment to the Far East and back again.

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nablement of Voyager airto-air refueling operations were accomplished through the High Readiness Teams within TCW. These two-person teams provided lightweight, early-entry information systems to provide OFFICIAL and SECRET data and voice communications enabling the command and control of

refueling missions throughout the Mediterranean and into the Pacific. In total, nine teams were deployed to support operations in the UK, Italy, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Israel, United Arab Emirates, and Guam.

Additionally, two medium-scale, 10-person detachments deployed

to Souda Bay, Crete to provide vital communications systems enabling command, control and rear link connectivity to AIRSEEKER missions. These missions provided critical Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance reports to protect and support the Carrier Strike Group as it transited throughout the Mediterranean.

pandemic, the team seized the opportunity to be part of such a high-profile task. For some, this was their first operational deployment after initial training.

They have learned a lot, worked exceptionally hard, overcame multiple technical challenges and gained some great experience along the way.”

Every deployment was supported and enabled remotely by the Leeming-based Air Cyber Information Services Operations Center, better known as the Air CyISOC. This team of cyber professionals provided 24/7 network operations support and advanced cyber protection of each deployed mission.

In total, the TCW deployed 11 teams throughout 9 different countries to support Op FORTIS, enabling global command and control for the air elements of UK’s Carrier Strike Group’s deployment.

“After a frustrating year, constrained by the COVID-19

Kitchener’s is a unique Suffolk charity offering guest house style accommodation overlooking the sea in South Lowestoft, to British and Commonwealth veteran and serving armed forces, merchant sea personnel, blue light services, and their families. Holidays and short breaks are available on either a bed & breakfast or half-board basis.

Holidays for Veterans of the Armed Forces, Merchant Seamen and members of the Emergency Services

Open from 1st Feb to 30th November

01502 573564

Kitchener’s is centrally located between Great Yarmouth and Southwold with easy access transport links and a host of places to visit and things to do for both adults and children alike.

You will find a warm welcome from the resident Manager, Ash, who served in the armed forces, and his wife Caroline.

Amongst both regular and new guests, Kitchener’s has a solid reputation as being a place to relax and unwind amongst likeminded people; there’s nothing like the camaraderie and humour of those who have served our country, no matter in what capacity.

With regular guests such as Royal Chelsea Pensioners and Normandy D-Day Vets, there are often stories to be heard from conflicts past. They too, love to speak with the younger veterans and serving personnel to hear about what is going on now and how things have changed. It is not uncommon to find a group gathered in the bar exchanging stories.

enquiries@kitchenerslowestoft.co.uk www.kitchenerslowestoft.co.uk

If being outdoors is more your thing, you will find plenty to do in the local area. As Kitchener’s is located on the seafront of the East coast, there’s plenty of opportunity for watersport activities.

Alternatively, a short distance away, you can hire a boat for a day trip on the Norfolk Broads.

Registered Charity Number 230090

A stay at Kitchener’s is offered at a substantially discounted price for our veterans and serving armed forces and their families which is subsidised by grants and charitable donations. This allows us to offer a warm, friendly ‘home from home’ stay at an affordable price.

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607 (COUNTY OF DURHAM) SQN RAUXAF NEWS

OP FORTIS

SAC JAC LEE - 607 SQUADRON LOGISTICS CHEF ON DEPLOYMENT WITH THE ROYAL NAVY ON HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH AIRCRAFT CARRIER’S FIRST OPERATIONAL TOUR ‘OP FORTIS’ - APRIL-DECEMBER 2021

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upported by a team of 1600 personnel the 65,000 tonne carrier sailed 40,000 nautical miles, flew numerous F35 sorties from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea, to Iraq and Syria while also reacting to Russian incursions, and had engagements with over 40 countries ............ and I was one of that team!

never done before. They knew they would need as many chefs as possible and did not have enough of their own to be able to deliver such a tasking.

water rises above head height, and at one point I had to hammer wood into a completely submerged deck.

A trawl for support went So, how can this out across the country to all be achieved when Reservist chefs, which is where I your own buoyancy come in... the only RAF Reservist keeps bringing you chef to volunteer. So, after many to the surface? The conversations with my husband, only solution was for my employer and numerous someone to put their During the 8 months injections later (since we were foot in between my deployment, 350,000 pints of going to other side of the world), shoulders to help milk, 200 tonnes of potatoes (I hold me down. It was feel like peeled all of them!) and I was good to go. amazing: I loved it!

2 million eggs were consumed.

Three meals a day, every day for My tour started 2 weeks before Then there was 224 days for 1600 personnel plus we set sail: there were many numerous defence engagement different types of safety aspects I submersion training: functions: a massive undertaking would need to be trained in first. wearing a ‘once-only’ dry suit I jumped off a 3 metre platform and one that the Royal Navy had One was the Basic Sea Survival Course (BSSC)… into a lake, swam backwards, rerighted an upside down raft and The first part then swam back to shore. consisted of the Drui: a mock ship The final course was firefighting. designed to operate Wearing firefighting Personal like a ship dealing Protective Equipment (PPE) and with all types of breathing apparatus on a mock floods. When water ship engulfed in flames, we went pours through through the set drills: walking holes, kindling through smoke filled corridors must be hammered with very little visibility. Putting into them. Often, the correct drills into action, we

extinguished ship fires. Again – it was exhilarating and fantastic training.

Then it was into the galley (the ship’s kitchen). This was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my whole life. There are 3 galleys and a bakery. Aft galley was for the 600 senior ratings; the flag galley was for the Commodore and Captain; the forward galley, affectionately nicknamed ‘The Zoo’, for the 1000 junior ratings.

This was where I worked for most of the tour. Though the work was very physically and mentally demanding, it was incredibly rewarding: I worked with some amazing people.

Not only were the 12hr watches hard the rota is for 12 hour shifts every single day until you reach your next stop (No, the Navy does not do days off!). Stops could be 5, 6 or 7 weeks apart.

My Royal Navy chef colleagues were an awesome team, and we supported each other through the many highs and lows on such a long tour.

Life on board a Royal Ship is an incredibly unique way to live your life. For a start, the ship is huge. Whenever I had to leave the mess to go anywhere, I left 10-15 mins to allow time for

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A trawl for support went out across the country to all Reservist chefs, which is where I come in... the only RAF Reservist chef to volunteer. So, after many conversations with my husband, my employer and numerous injections later (since we were going to other side of the world), I was good to go.

getting lost. I would somehow always end up where I needed to be - but I never took the same route twice! The ship’s induction team encourage people to keep exploring to build an awareness of your surroundings.

We slept in 8 berth cabins with roomy beds, the mess square had 2 TVs, a small kitchen area and 2 PCs. Each mess accommodated up to 60 pers. Leisure and health care facilities included 5 gyms, a full boxing ring, library, coffee shop, classroom, chapel, walkin med/dental centre and a 5-bed ward. There were various

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fitness classes: Zumba, circuits and spin. I loved doing circuits as these were in the hanger there you were doing a routine, looking out over the aircraft lift where the view could be the Med or the South China Sea, HMS Defender, Duncan and Kent (escort ships sailing alongside us), and around us were F35s and Merlin helicopters - quite a surreal experience.

I also ran my first flight deck 5K, running in-between F35s and Merlins; was accepted into King Neptune’s Kingdom as we crossed the equator in the South China Sea; I rowed 2000m of the Suez Canal (on board the

ship’s rowing machine) to raise money for the RN’s charity and watched films on the flight deck under the stars on the massive inflatable cinema screen. The stops (although limited due to Covid) were great: it was so good to get off ship for a couple of well-deserved R&R days. I had the immense privilege to be part of the honour guard on the flight deck for HRH The Queen’s

visit by private helicopter. I was also part of the audience for Boris Johnson’s visit.

Overall, an amazing experience and one I’ll never forget, along with all the good friends I’ve made in the Royal Navy. When I joined as a Reservist in 2016 and was told there would be many great opportunities for adventure, they were not lying!!

607 (COUNTY OF DURHAM) SQN RAUXAF NEWS

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607 (COUNTY OF DURHAM) SQN RAUXAF NEWS

CHASING THE DREAM (AND MOPED)

It’s a typical winters day here at RAF Leeming. But, as the windchill of minus three causes tears to roll down my face, I have to focus and stay sharp. Despite the increasing pain from the cold, I must concentrate on the job at hand…

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ewind six months to when a ‘local lad’ contacted me: did I know of any flat and traffic free locations he could use as part of his training for a potential World Record? “Get to the point,” I said. The response: “Can I use RAF Leeming?” A couple of calls later and thanks to the Stn Cdr and OC Ops we were in business.

What’s the record? Project Sub7 (Google it). Essentially, it is an Ironman Triathlon (2.4 miles swim, 112 miles cycle, 26.2 miles run) all to be completed in under 7 hours. The requirements in order to achieve something like this is mind-blowing.

In a similar vein to when marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge broke the two-hour barrier for the marathon, this record attempt would be in a controlled environment and push the boundaries of human performance. Nutrition and clothing would play a significant part. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) allows athletes to bring wind defying and aerodynamic technology to bear. These advances in the sport of triathlon will undoubtedly pave the way for future athletes in all race distances.

Who was the ‘local lad’? Alistair Brownlee MBE. Two times

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by Sgt Greg Macdonald 607 Sqn

Olympic Champion, World Champion, super-human legend, Yorkshireman and tea drinker…

And where did I fit into this? “Can you do some Motor Pacing?” It sounds simple, right? Nope, not in the slightest.

To put into context, the official record attempt will enrol the help of brother, Jonny, along with a handful of quite impressive cyclists. They will be doing the lion’s share of the bike work up front, so Alistair can conserve energy for the approx.

2hr 20 min (that’s 5.19 per mile

pace!) marathon to finish. My role on the scooter would be to replicate the speeds and slipstream that these cyclists would provide in the World Record attempt.

‘Mirror Signal Manoeuvre’ Fast forward to the practices. I learnt very quickly to check the speedo every 5-10 seconds, the mirrors, and when and by how much to accelerate or slow down - all whilst ignoring the mind-numbing pain of the cold.

I learnt that on parts of the route I could hold certain speeds, I knew which corners to ease off and which to hold the speed and line. And at all times, it was head down: 30cms away from my back wheel was a triathlon legend. “Please don’t mess this up, Greg.”, I thought to myself.

The faster I went, the more he embraced it and the easier it became for him. He entered a Zen-like state. I seem to be working harder than him and I had an engine!

I also learnt, afterwards, that for about a week you lose the ability to turn your neck properly!

I have done triathlons for 30 years and I have done some tough training sessions in my time (or so I thought). However, nothing, and I mean nothing, compares to the dedication shown by this man and his determination to be the best. It was a privileged insight to what such commitment and hard work looked like, and so much of done outside in the best, and worst, a North Yorkshire winter had to offer. A typical session for Alistair consisted of a three-hour warm-up cycle in temperatures hovering around one degree Celsius, then 60-90 mins flat out behind the moped. Then, believe it or not, a 10-mile easy run.

Different stuff, this lad!

So, if you see a man barely in control on a scooter, with one or more cyclists chasing him at insane speeds on a runway near you - don’t worry, it’s only us…

In Memoriam

WO Hamilton-Sturdy A fond farewell WO Hamilton-Sturdy unexpectedly passed away 27th Jan 2022 and it was with great sadness that 607 (County of Durham) Sqn had the honour of representing the RAF at his funeral, at St Gregory’s church Bedale, on the 17th February.

He joined the RAF in Nov 1977 and served as an Eng on predominately rotary and fast jet units and his last tour was a Reserve on 607 where he had been the Sqn WO since the unit was reformed in 2015. He was expected to work 3 days per week as a Reserve, but his energy, drive and sense of duty meant that he would often be

first in and last out most days.

Such was his energy that on his ‘day off’ he drove for the local haulage firm Malcolms.

He was integral to the Sqn and maintained the links between our historical and present achievements through his involvement with the veterans in the Sqn Association. He understood the core ethos of Service and maintained the balance between discipline and compassion, he could be relied upon to be at every social function until closing time and he would share a drink with all the troops under his care.

The RAF was second only to his family and he leaves his wife Kate and children Ross, Moya and Ethan behind. 607 Sqn is privileged to have been led by WO Sturdy and is weaker for his passing.

RESTAURANT RESERVATIONS,, TAKEAWAY, ,BED & BREAKFAST

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SADDLE LEEMING CLUB NEWS

Welcome to the Wild West...

A dusty, barren vista stretching far and wide, a weather-beaten gunslinger and his trusty mustang. This is possibly the stereotypical image evoked when someone says “Western riding” but, the RAF Leeming Saddle Club undertook the challenge to break that notion at the start of the year.

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orse riding is comprised of many different disciplines which the RAF Leeming Saddle Club prides itself on providing members the opportunity to challenge their abilities and develop new skills. As soon as new member Mrs Kelsey Macdonald joined the club and committee, the RAF Leeming Saddle Club saw an exciting new avenue to take advantage of her lifelong experience in Western riding!

Kelsey proactively organised for the RAF Leeming Saddle Club to participate in a Western riding taster session at a locally based and nationally acclaimed Western trainer and instructor, Emma Chapman Training, just outside of Bedale.

Western riding is identified by the larger saddles with large pommels and saddle horns located at the front, a high cantle located at the rear of the seat and large fenders for the leg to rest against. These saddles are designed to evenly distribute the weight of a cowboy over the horse’s back so the pair can herd cattle over large expanses of land for countless hours a day. Modern Western riding has evolved greatly; however, the principles of the horse and rider partnership still reflect the standards and traditions needed to be a successful cowboy.

Most notably, this is to have a horse that is attuned to its rider: sensible and relaxed in all paces and manoeuvres. Cattle

drives could last several days at a time with only brief rests at night; the western style of riding developed a slower version of the trot called a “jog” and a slower canter: a “lope”. These slower paces were important to provide a more comfortable experience for both the horse and rider during long gruelling days in the saddle.

After arriving at Emma Chapman Training, RAF Leeming Saddle Club members paired up with their horses and faced their first challenge: getting into the saddle! Compared to the much smaller English saddles this provided the first bit of comic relief. Soon enough, all riders were on board and the lesson underway. Under Emma’s tutelage the riders were soon working their way through the walk, jog and lope, challenging their English riding skills with the different balance and rhythm.

Later, the riders learned the

reasons for cowboys needing a highly manoeuvrable horse who could pivot the front feet around the back in a “spin” or cross both back and front feet over one another to “side-pass”: these manoeuvres make it easier to herd cattle or block them from escaping. Everyone found the techniques a welcome challenge and benefitted from Emma Chapman’s unique perspective and instruction on rider position that can be applied to English riding disciplines and competitions.

RAF Leeming Saddle Club member, Sqn Ldr Madi Timlin, was excited for the day: “I was really interested to find out how the saddle felt and the difference it might make to my riding position. I was surprised to find the seat of the saddle was not padded the same way an English saddle may be. It was a much different way to feel the horse’s movement: I noticed

my stiff pelvis, highlighting the importance of relaxing through my lower back and improving my hip mobility. Once able to do this I found moving with the horse easier as it encouraged a deeper, more natural seat.

Emma’s instruction highlighted how we can communicate using our hands and reins in a soft way, relaxing the horse to encourage him to ‘melt like butter’ and move more fluidly.”

For anyone interested in trying either English or Western riding, please get in contact with the RAF Leeming Saddle Club through OIC Sqn Ldr Liz Dawson or DOIC FS Ange Polgreen.

Interested in trying something new?

The RAF Leeming Saddle Club run subsidised Beginner Days (English riding) which includes 2 riding lessons and a stable management lesson. There are regular ‘Grass Roots’ events for developing riders – all with generous Leeming Saddle Club and Sports Fund subsidies

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SAC Kyran Taylor turns his hand to horse riding We hope you enjoy reading Kyran’s account of how he got into riding. It has been a swift and incredible journey! Inspired by watching ‘Trail hunting’ – a legal activity which mimics traditional hunting (in line with the Hunting Act 2004) and does not involve chasing live animals.

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n November 2019 I attended my first trail hunt meet on foot. This was my first real time seeing so many horses and hounds up close. After following for a few hours and watching them jump some huge fences - I decided I wanted to learn to do that, too!

In June 2020 I managed to get my first riding lesson on a friend’s horse. At this point I realised that I might have underestimated how difficult it would be to learn to ride!

Luckily, I received an offer from Peta Ackerley to start regular lessons on her horses. So, for the next year I rode twice a week, learning the basics of riding: walk; trot; canter and even some small jumps in the school. I hit a point where I couldn’t progress further with certain disciplines, such as jumping. Thankfully, Peta told me about the RAF Leeming Saddle Club, specifically the 3 Day ‘Grass Roots’ Camps, where she would be judging the dressage element.

Wanting to improve, I contacted the RAF Leeming Saddle Club OIC, Sqn Ldr Liz Dawson in June 2021. I soon started regular Friday lessons at the local riding school: The Hollies. This gave me the opportunity to ride a few types of horses, greatly benefitting my riding. Feeling

Kyran on Molly, cubbing

SADDLE CLUB NEWS LEEMING NEWS

FINDING ALL FOUR FEET: adventurous, I signed up for the three-day Saddle Club Camp in August 2021. Here, I got my first experiences of cantering outside and tackling cross country jumps.

This camp gave me a huge amount of confidence riding, especially jumping. Afterwards, I continued regular Friday lessons at The Hollies via the Leeming Saddle Club.

In September 2021, I managed to borrow a friend’s horse to go out on a ‘Hound Exercise’ - this was my first experience of riding to hounds and involved exercising them along quiet lanes and fields.

In October 2021 I did my first morning’s trail hunting (set with an artificial scent on a pre-determined route – no live animals are chased, injured or killed). This was a real sense of achievement, all within 16 months of first sitting on a horse.

I rode Molly, a large bay hireling I had come to know from The Hollies. I have been out 15 times and aim to get out a few more times before the end of the season.

After that, I hope to continue regular Friday lessons via the Leeming Saddle club. I’ve also applied to take part in another three-day Saddle Club Camps this year - which should help me further improve.

Kyran on Archie at a meet

Kyran jumping Archie (photo courtesy of by Nina Edminson)

Interested in learning to ride?

Please contact The Leeming Saddle Club DOIC Flight Sergeant Angela Polgreen.

Flt Lt Moynan on Sky on her first day cubbing, and Kyran on Mollie Kyran jumping Molly at the Saddle Club 3 day camp

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By OC George Hodgson

This month, the ranks of the Yorkshire UAS were almost doubled with the introduction of the latest course of students.

After a selection process designed to test leadership and teamwork, 53 Course spent 3 days at RAF Cranwell learning the basics of what it means to be in the RAF. Following this, they spent 4 days at Rookin House farm in the Lake District, helping to develop not only their spirit of adventure but also confidence, team building and courage.

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n other news, and as I write this at our weekly town night, our guest speaker this week was Sean Allerton – a fantastically inspirational ex-regiment gunner who broke his spine more than 25 years ago and as such has limited use of his arms, and no use of his legs. As some of you may know, he is famous for his

‘pushes’: events in which Sean pushes himself around an airfield, usually for 24 hours, aiming to raise as much money as possible for charities such as the RAF Benevolent Fund and Elizabeth’s Legacy of Hope. Sean’s story and his ability to sit in front of us and expose his vulnerabilities was incredibly inspiring and perfectly

embodies some of the intrinsic values of our Air Squadron. It is going to be an incredible honour to have Sean come and do a Push 500 at Leeming – especially given his history with Yorkshire UAS. This is going to happen on the 5th and 6th of March and will involve the whole squadron, and hopefully the rest of Leeming.

We would like to thank 100 Squadron for letting us visit and learn in more detail what the aggressor squadron does; it was a fantastic opportunity given that the squadron is standing down this year. We would also like to thank 11 QEAF Squadron for their hospitality in letting us look

YUAS NEWS

Yorkshire UAS at Leeming (and the Lakes)

around their shiny new Hawks.

It is opportunities like these that allow us to fully realise the importance of collaboration with our allies and expand our knowledge of the UK defence network. To many of our Engineer and Pilot hopefuls, the chance to look around fast jets can provide sudden inspiration to study a little bit harder at university and try for that extra few percent!

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Q

We are excellent. We are QE.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) has found Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate to be ‘Excellent’ across all schools, praising our pupils’ outstanding academic achievements and personal development.

Queen Ethelburga’s has a long-standing relationship with the British Forces, welcoming students from military families for over 100 years. We currently have over 300 such students living as part of the QE family.

We welcome day students from 3 months to 19 years and boarders from 6 years to 19 years. We are CEA accredited and in recognition of our commitment to Forces families, we offer a significant reduction in fees. In 2020/21 this meant that our Forces families paid just 10% of fees. In 2021/22 Forces families will pay just £1,050 per term, per child.

We pride ourselves on our wrap-around specialist pastoral care for our students, providing a secure and supportive home from home. We are focused on creating the right learning and living environment so that every one of them can thrive.

For further information or to arrange a visit contact our admissions team on:

Tel: 01423 33 33 30 Email: admissions@qe.org

QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S COLLEGIATE OFFERING OPPORTUNITIES BEYOND THE ORDINARY

in all aspects of their lives. Whether that is in academic studies, in the clubs that they choose, in the trips they attend or in the friends that they make; their experiences at QE will shape their life.

Set in 220 acres of beautiful North Yorkshire countryside, QE welcomes children from 3 months to 19 years, with those wishing to board being able to do so from year 3.

Being a boarder at QE gives students opportunities beyond the ordinary and across the Collegiate, staff are committed to providing a safe and happy environment for its students. At the heart of boarding at QE, are three central characteristics; opportunity, individuality and a caring community.

Weekends are as busy on campus as during the week, with a wide range of sporting, creative and performing arts, cultural and outdoor activities on offer. Boarding houses also host a varied programme of activities, encouraging students to socialise and follow their individual interests.

State-of-the-art sports facilities encourage students to maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage their own fitness with the support of gym staff, teachers and coaches.

The boarding environment is crucial in supporting students’ personal development and helping students grow

“Weekends are as busy on campus as during the week, with a wide range of sporting, creative and performing arts, cultural and outdoor activities on offer”

Central to QE’s boarding ethos is the desire to help students to develop the skills they need to be the very best that they can be and to prepare them for their undoubtedly successful futures.

Students will make their educational home in excellent boarding accommodation and facilities. Common rooms are provided for all boarders, so that students can get together and socialise. All boarding bedrooms are air-conditioned and have private ensuite bathrooms with a toilet and shower.

QE’s dedicated pastoral areas and staff are available throughout the day and well into the evening, and all students have access to the award-winning THRIVE@QE programme promoting and encouraging the very highest standards of student wellbeing. Boarding facilities in Sixth Form reflect those students are becoming independent adults, providing more private, personal and study space.

QE has a community unlike any other, a unique blend of cultures and nationalities, where friendships are formed that last a lifetime.

For more information about studying and becoming a boarding student at QE, visit qe.org and book your place on the next Whole School Open Day on Saturday 14 May, or book a private tour at your convenience.

www.qe.org

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Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Whether you’re looking to use the Forces Help to Buy scheme, finding your first mortgage, want to switch rates to save money or releasing capital to renovate your own home… you can get the advice you need by calling the Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service - provided by Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited.

It’s as easy as this You’ll be asked a few simple questions, incomings, outgoings, that kind of thing. It takes around 15 minutes. Then it’s an appointment with one of their impartial mortgage advisors. They take the time to understand what you’re looking for, before coming back with the most suitable option for you. They will then guide you through your mortgage journey.

One call could put you on your way to a better deal

A mortgage is a loan secured against your home.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Lines are open: Mon-Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm or request a call-back at forcesmutual.org/mortgages

0333 222 4486

Important things you should know: PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual acts as an intermediary for the purposes of introducing its customers to Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited, part of Tenet. You will not receive advice or any recommendation from Forces Mutual. Such services will be provided by Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited who will provide Forces Mutual with information about the services you have received. Forces Mutual will receive 18.6% of any lender procuration fee from Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited in connection with the provision of mortgage broking services.

Or scan QR code

PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: 55 Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 0RL. Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of TenetConnect Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under reference FRN: 149826. Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited is a company registered in England and Wales under company number: 09111571 and whose registered office is at 5 Lister Hill, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 5AZ. Calls to 03 numbers usually cost no more than to geographic numbers (01 or 02) and are usually included in call packages, please check with your phone company if they are included in your package. For your security, all calls are recorded any may be monitored.

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