Helicon
The Magazine of RAF Odiham
Sqn
Please
Deadline
STATION COMMANDER’S
FOREWORD
Group Captain Sarah Moorehead OBE BSC(Hons) MA RAF
What a summer we had; glorious weather and a a number of events that have really cemented our relationship with the local community and provided opportunities for us to celebrate Odiham100. I hope that in amongst these you and your families have had the chance for a reset and a period of leave.
For me the highlight of the summer was when the Station received the honour of the Freedom of the Parish gifted by Odiham Parish Council and presented during the Freedom Parade on 27 June. It was fantastic to have such a strong turn out from the local community including the schools and the Lord Lieutenant and Air Officer Commanding No 2 Group as the Reviewing Officers. But, the Box Cart racing, Promise & Fulfil Awards, Families Day and the recent Odiham100 Community Festival were equally brilliant, each appealing to a different demographic across the unit and community. I know that these events take effort, both from the organisers and the station to enable, but also from our community leaders and so a collective thank you goes out to everyone who has played their part in enabling these events. Odiham100 has lived up to its intended aims; celebrate, legacy and community, with community at the very centre of all we do.
This summer we have seen the work continue across the unit on improving our infrastructure with a focus on improving the lived experience. Specifically, the Welfare and Community Centre which aims to provide an improved community centre for our extended RAF family. I was delighted to see the
engagement with RAFAKidz and the opportunity for the nursery children to paint and decorate the wooden fences that surround the construction site. The project remains on track so we are looking at late Spring 26 for it to be finished. Facilities such as this and the support of the community team are really important for such a globally mobile force.
This summer we have witnessed unprecedented temperatures in the UK and across Europe and the Chinook Force have been valiantly fighting fires from Aktrotiri as part of the newly developed Aerial Fire Fighting (AFF) capability. Their work supporting AFF has demonstrated on a daily basis that the Chinook Force are Capable. Trusted. Ready.
As we look ahead there are varied deployments and detachments on the horizon which will provide different challenges and opportunities for our personnel to train and operate in, whilst maintaining their operational mindset. These exercises and commitments are all planned around our wider Defence tasks, maintaining our capability and ensuring that we can meet our NATO commitments.
It was great to see so many RAF Odiham personnel being recognised as part of the King’s
Birthday Honours List and Operational Honours. In addition we were able to celebrate some of the unsung heroes across the unit during the Promise & Fulfil awards and it was great to invite back some of our Veterans through the Under the Disc initiative. While such events recognise our standout
personnel, I continue to be impressed by the quality of the people that we have across the unit delivering our output day in day out and this shone through during WO RAF recent visit as well – a big congratulations and thank you to all for what you do and the support provided by your friends and families.
3 Peaks Challenge
Chinook Maintenance Flight Corporals Jacob Fawcett and Bobby Nijhuis completed the Three Peaks Challenge in June… with a twist!
Climbing to the summit of the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales was not enough for this pair! A gruelling ten-day challenge saw them cycling between each start point on a self-supported epic adventure.
Cycling over 750km with an elevation gain of 7500m and covering 45km with a 3000m elevation gain on foot, battling gale force winds, sideways rain, hail and headwinds the whole way down, this challenge was not for the faint-hearted!
friend Emma who sadly lost her battle Breast Cancer earlier this year, and in support of their “wonderful” Mums who are also going through their own battles, funds were raised towards two fantastic charities: St Michael’s Hospice and Triple Negative Breast Cancer.
For more details on the trip, or if you wish to donate, check out their Instagram page: @RAF_ three_peaks_for_cancer
Inspiration for the adventure came in memory of their dear
Fantastic effort by both, I’m sure many people are in awe of your achievement – we certainly are!
RAFA Rides 2025 – El Centro
RAFA Rides is the Royal Air Forces Association’s global cycling event, connecting thousands of riders worldwide, fostering a sense of community and supporting the RAF community through fundraising.
Crews deployed on Exercise Vortex Warrior in El Centro, California, have recently completed their contribution to this fantastic initiative, with 9 personnel raising £500 towards the Royal Air Force Association.
In the heat of the Californian desert, 4 of the team completed 100 miles each, and 3 completed 100km. Carried out on stationary bikes due to the high heat and
to cater for work commitments, 18(B) Squadron’s Sgt Steve Shaw said “I can confirm it was absolute graft. I can safely say 100 miles is not comfortable and is unlikely to be repeated by me any time soon!”.
Outstanding effort from all and a fantastic sum raised for an excellent cause!
Cpl Lyndsey Salmon
RAFA supplied welfare equipment
RAF Odiham would like to express its gratitude to the Alresford, Alton, Basingstoke, Fleet and Romsey Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) Branches for their combined generosity by funding the creation of three welfare packages.
The welfare packages, which contain equipment such as TVs, coffee machines, games consoles and many more morale and well-being boosting resources, will be utilised by personnel deployed overseas.
One such package was recently constructed and sent out to 1310 Flight who are supporting aerial firefighting operations at RAF Akrotiri, with the other two waiting in reserve to be sent wherever we deploy!
On behalf of personnel at RAF Odiham, the Station would like to express our sincere thanks; we are truly grateful for the positive impact you have made.
Cpl Lyndsey Salmon
CAMO Days
Rolling with the best! MT Marvellous CAMO Day Adventures
When it comes to putting the “drive” in team spirit nobody does it quite like our Mechanical transport (MT) crew! June was a busy but brilliant month for our unsung heroes of horsepower, as they rolled out in full force to support not one, but two epic CAMO Days proving that wheels and wow-factor go hand in hand.
Pit Stop 1
On station at RAF Odiham 4th June 2025
On a bright and breezy Tuesday, MT revved up their engines for CAMO Day at the Station.
With an impressive line-up of vehicles and team of dedicated personnel, the MT stand was a magnet for curious young minds. Around a dozen school groups rolled though wide-eyed and full of questions. From the big rigs to the finer points of logistics, the kids got glimpse into the vital role MT plays in keeping the station mission ready.
The day was a huge success part learning journey, part jawdropping display of mechanical might.
Pit Stop #2
Barely had the dust settled from the first event before the MT team packed up and hit the road again this time to Church Crookham Junior School. The mission? Deliver a second helping of CAMO Day magic!
Seventeen enthusiastic class groups cycled though the MT stand throughout the day, each one getting hands-on (and wide-eyed) with our operational display. One of the days stars the iconic AMRV, paired with the ever-knowledgeable Cpl Cook who teamed with the Med centre that left students inspired and staff thoroughly impressed.
CAMO Conclusion: What a Ride! CAMO Days aren’t just about showing off big vehicles (though that is a bonus). They’re about outreach, engagement, and showcasing the incredible breadth of what MT offers, from logistics to leadership.
A big shout-out to everyone involved for making both events not only successful but truly memorable. Whether on base or on the road, the MT team continues to drive forward with passion, professionalism.
Smile with Confidence Straight Teeth & Whitening
Drone Awareness
With some lovely autumnal weather and many beautiful spaces around Odiham, you may think a drone is a great way to see it all, however, are you aware of the impact drones can have on an airfield?
What may seem like a bit of innocent fun offers the opportunity for catastrophic consequences.
Unauthorised drone flights within Flight Restriction Zones (FRZ’s) are illegal and can present a risk to life. Failure to comply could result in criminal conviction.
As a drone operator, you must ensure that you are aware of UK Policy for their safe operation, including that directed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The CAA have published “The Drone Code” to assist with safe operation of drones and apps such as “Drone Assist” and “Drone Safe” may be of further aid.
RAF Odiham’s FRZ extends beyond the A287 and covers the villages of Crondall, Well, Upton Grey and Greywell, including the canal and the castle.
Useful Links:
If see drone operation in the local area and suspect it is unauthorised and within the vicinity of the FRZ for RAF Odiham, please contact the Duty Ops Controller on 01256 367254 Police should also be notified on 101 (non-emergency) or 999 if the situation presents a threat to life.
“But we’ve seen drones operated by RAF Odiham on your Socials?”
– Yes, we have been trialling new concepts, but these are strictly controlled and authorised, with the appropriate permissions in place, risk assessments made, and legal requirements met.
We want our crews to operate as safely as possible and to do that requires some input from the local community from time-to-time.
Thank you for your continued support
https://register-drones.caa.co.uk/drone-code/the_drone_code.pdf
https://nats-uk.ead-it.com/cms-nats/opencms/en/uas-restriction-zones/
https://www.hampshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/ drones/drones/#:~:text=Don’t%20endanger%20anyone%20 or,emergency%2C%20unless%20you%20get%20permission
Email info@odihamdental.co.uk Web www.odihamdental.co.uk
At Odiham Dental Care, we believe that everyone deserves a smile they can be proud of. Offering teeth whitening and Invisalign treatments, our practice is dedicated to helping you achieve a brighter, straighter smile in a caring and comfortable environment.
What sets us apart is not just our commitment to excellent dentistry, but our genuine care for our patients. We understand the unique needs of our community, including the RAF families who form the heart of Odiham. Whether you’re part of the RAF community or simply someone who values quality care, our friendly team is here to make your dental experience as smooth as possible.
We pride ourselves on providing a personal touch, ensuring each patient feels at ease from the moment they step through our doors. Our team of skilled professionals is ready to guide you through your treatment options and create a plan tailored to your needs.
Ready to transform your smile? Call us today to book your free Invisalign or teeth whitening consultation. Let Odiham Dental Care help you achieve the confident, beautiful smile you deserve.
Achieve Your Perfect Smile with Odiham Dental Care
Come and meet our friendly team
Netty Warna BDS (Guys 2001) GDC 79816
French Exchange Crew return home
Excellent ambassadors for the French Air Force, Capt. Damien “Dove” Dauvillaire and WO Fabien “Fab” Chauchoy joined the Squadron in 2023 serving on a variety of Operations and Exercises.
Both were fortunate enough to have their last Chinook flights whilst deployed in Cyprus and were treated to traditional French last flight rituals, being wheeled off their aircraft and given a cooling off!
Wing Commander Jay Berry, Officer Commanding 18(B) Sqn said:
“It has been a real privilege to host Dove and Fab on 18 Squadron. Their professionalism, adaptability, and teamwork have been exemplary throughout their time with us. From supporting NATO exercises across Europe to delivering vital aerial firefighting operations in Cyprus, they have consistently embodied the spirit of international cooperation. Their contribution has strengthened our operational output and deepened the bond between our nations. They leave with our sincere thanks, lasting friendships, and the respect of everyone on the Squadron.”
We wish Dove, Fabian, and their families all the best for the future and thank them for all they have done for the Chinook Force.
Cpl Lyndsey Salmon
18(B) Sqn recently bid a fond “au revoir” to their French exchange pilot and crewman.
Odiham 100
100 years of aviation Celebrating
Community, Legacy and Celebration
On a summers day in the June of 1925 No.13 Squadron took to the skies from Downs Farm, Odiham for the first time.
The earliest documented evidence of aviation operations taking place, at the site of what would become RAF Odiham, concerns No 13 Squadron which deployed to Odiham on 3rd June 1925, for a summer training camp with the first flight taking place in a Bristol F2B sometime shortly after. Over the coming years, Nos. 4 and 13 Squadrons would become regular visitors at Downs Farm for summer training camps. The accommodation at the site was very basic, with Bessoneau canvas hangars provided for the aircraft and tents for the personnel.
From the late 1920s to mid-1930s the threat of war was once again looming and suitable locations for airfield expansion were being identified. Therefore, in 1934 work began at Odiham to build an “Expansion Period” airfield. Construction began on three “C type” hangars, accommodation blocks and various standard design buildings. The airfield was handed over to the RAF in December 1936 and officially opened on the 18th October 1937, ironically by General Erhard Milch, Chief of Air Staff at the Luftwaffe.
The original purpose for Odiham was to house three Army Co-operation Squadrons and they were soon active in their role, taking part in several training operations with ground forces.
In June 1943, RAF Odiham came under the control of Fighter Command and later, the second Tactical Air Force. It played a central role in the preparations for the D-Day landings the following year.
In the spring of 1953, Nos 54 and 247 Squadrons were temporarily moved out of RAF Odiham to allow for the preparation of its most spectacular event; the Coronation Review of the Royal Air Force by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The review, which took place on the 15th of July 1953, took a great deal of organising, with 3,000 officers
drafted in to prepare. On the day, 1,200 personnel took part in the parade, and 318 aircraft were seen on the ground, representing every RAF Command and some Commonwealth units. Overhead, 47 formations flew at 30-second intervals, starting with a single Bristol Sycamore and concluding with a Supermarine Swift, with 600 aircraft in between!
In 1959 it was decided to close RAF Odiham as a fighter station and on 15 July the airfield was then placed under Care and Maintenance.
The following year, RAF Odiham reopened with Transport Command taking charge. The airfield became the main base for RAF transport helicopters, with No
72 Squadron operating the twinrotor Bristol Belvedere helicopter (and later the Westland Whirlwind and Wessex helicopters). 1971 saw the Puma helicopters of Nos 33 and 230 Squadron arrive at RAF Odiham.
In December 1980, the twin rotor Chinook was first introduced into service with the RAF operated by No.240 Operational Conversion Unit (OCU). The first Squadron to be formed operating the Chinook was No.18 (B) Squadron in August 1981.
Since 1998 RAF Odiham has been home to Nos. 7, 18 and 27 Squadrons, who, along with No 28 Squadron based at RAF Benson, form the UK Chinook Helicopter Force.
100 years of aviation Celebrating
Although Royal Air Force Odiham wasn’t officially opened until the 18th of October 1937, flying at what was then ‘Downs Farm’ began in 1925, with Nos. 4 and 13 Squadrons being regular visitors due to its proximity to Aldershot and Salisbury Plain. Back in those days of course, the site was very basic with Bessoneau canvas hangars provided for the F.2Bs and tents for the crew and engineers. Throughout 2025, RAF Odiham and Odiham village will come together to celebrate with events and activities, including ‘Odiham in Bloom’, ODI Boxing Night, 100 days of Flags on the High St, Community led Dining-in Night, High Street Box Car Racing, and a Freedom Parade where the Stn is being awarded the Freedom of the Parish.
Promise & Fulfil Awards
RAF Odiham marks 100 Years of Aviation and Honours
Outstanding Personnel at Promise & Fulfil Awards 2025
The 5th June was a momentous occasion at Royal Air Force Odiham, as we proudly celebrated 100 years of aviation at our historic Hampshire station. The milestone was marked in style with the Promise & Fulfil Awards 2025, a night for recognising the exceptional dedication, professionalism, and spirit of our people.
The event brought together members from across the RAF Odiham family and wider community, all of whom were treated to a spectacular Spitfire flypast, exceptional catering, and moving stories shared by selected RAF Odiham veterans.
At the heart of the evening were the eight awards, each representing core values we hold dear, and each presented by distinguished guests. The standard
of nominees was incredibly high, a testament to the outstanding calibre of individuals who serve and support at RAF Odiham.
THE BRIGHT START AWARD
Recognises individuals less than 2 years out of Ph 2 training (OF or OR) that have already made a positive impact to RAF Odiham and the Chinook Force, demonstrating innate ingenuity and resourcefulness to overcome a technical or systematic challenge.
AS2 Yates was assigned to RAF Odiham from Ph2 training on 22 Apr 24. He took every opportunity to embrace RAF life and quickly established himself as a key member of Catering Flt. After one week in post and at the age of 17 being the youngest service person on unit, he was afforded the privilege of presenting the Station Commander and members of the Station Execs with their Kings Coronation medals at a bespoke H&A. His excellent attitude and
willingness to learn has been a breath of fresh air, where he continuously explores avenues to further his Service knowledge and proficiency within profession, including working all Mess functions gleaning vital skills in different cooking techniques and fine dining trends often witnessed in high end establishments.
His appetite for progression and development was evident during the process of completing his TATs. Actively listening to his mentor and absorbing feedback, he completed both practical and written assessments to the highest of standard, subsequently the Logs Chef Apprenticeship team at Catering Trg Wg are using his portfolio as an example for the structure of written work for future learners.
Promoted to AS1 on 3 Dec 24, he continued to demonstrate self-drive, taking additional responsibility and identifying areas to progress, including a greater awareness and understanding of the role of a JNCO. Completing his apprenticeship EPA in Apr 25 where he was awarded a distinction across all areas. His recent detachment on ACPV 25 has further consolidated his training, providing exposure to operational catering.
He has been involved in numerous engagements across Station and within the local community. He has assisted the CCLO presenting to College/
School students delivering a short brief on his journey into the RAF and experiences thus far. The OIC positively commented on his public speaking, engagement and that he was an inspiration and ambassador for the RAF. Additionally, he helped organise an event at St. Mary’s Primary School, providing an insight into the Stn’s deployed catering capabilities and holding discussions on ORP. He also assisted students taking part in map reading, den building and orienteering. His input resulted in the day being a success forging relations with the school whereby Stn can now look to assist in future projects.
Attending a workshop with the Combined Services Culinary Arts Team, his commitment to his profession and appetite to develop himself as a chef were more than apparent when he competed in a junior chicken class at the international Scottish Culinary competition. This being his very first competition he was awarded a gold medal in his category. In April, he competed at the Annual RAF Culinary competition and was awarded gold best in class and crowned the RAF Junior Chef of the Year.
Selected as the reverse mentor to OC BSW, he will act as the voice of the Jnr ranks within the Wing, advising the Wing Commander of a realistic view of the lived experience of Service personnel within their command.
Validation of the Chinook Aircrew Role Conditioning Evaluation
ISSUE:
Chinook aircrew, and specifically rearcrew, have a particularly physically demanding role with high cumulative physical stress and rates of reported neck and back pain that are significantly higher than the non-flying military population. However, the high prevalence of flight related pain does not correlate with the number of aircrew presenting to the military physiotherapy services and there is a perceived mistrust of military medical treatment for fear of grounding.
Numerous surveys have been conducted in recent years, aiming to improve understanding of the prevalence and potential risk factors for flight related neck and back pain in Rotary Wing (RW) aircrew, but there is limited research to support pain mitigation strategies in this population.
UK Defence, and specifically the Royal Air Force, has adopted a strategy of targeted intervention and management, implementing the Aircrew Conditioning Program (ACP) throughout flying training (Slungaard et al, 2018). However, the current offer is designed specifically for Fast Jet pilots and seeks to improve G-tolerance and mitigate aircrew neck pain. It is therefore not transferable to a RW cohort and despite best efforts, a rotary specific ACP has not yet been validated. It is likely that the scope of this task is too big, with a wide range of rotary aircraft flown by tS aircrew, each having very specific physical demands.
RECOMMENDATION:
A research project proposed by RAF Odiham PCRF will look at minimising flight-related pain and optimising aircrew health
and operational performance specifically for Chinook aircrew. Their recommendations are as follows:
1. To conduct a research project which seeks to validate a novel Role Conditioning Evaluation (RCE) for Chinook aircrew. The RCE is comprised of seven gym-based functional exercises which relate to the physical requirements of both front and rearcrew roles. The overall aim is to enable early identification of those at greatest risk of flight related pain, to improve occupational performance and resilience through targeted conditioning and to return injured aircrew to their full capability as quickly as possibly through clear performance standards and data guided conditioning protocols.
2. To improve confidence in the military rehabilitation system, promoting early access, diagnosis and treatment to sustain performance and accelerate recovery after highrisk flying activities. This relies on good lines of communication between the aircrew, the AvMed trained MOs, AvMed trained Physiotherapists and the Sqns Execs. In addition to AvMed qualifications, specific occupational knowledge and experience with Chinook aircrew are crucial and can be achieved through regular informal meetings with Sqn Execs, Sqns visits and peripatetic clinics, attendance at Sqn briefs, deployment on exercise with the Chinook Sqns and where possible, air experience flights. Familiarity
with the physical demands of the role, kit and equipment, AEA, cockpit ergonomics and sortie profiles will enable health care professionals to make informed, credible and safe decisions around fitness to fly. The intention is to minimise time away from flying, or to minimise the impact of flying on the injury.
TIMING:
Timing is key for the management for musculoskeletal injury and pain; prompt assessment, diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent problems from becoming chronic, more severe, or harder to treat. Aircrew who self-refer to the PCRF will be triaged on the same day and provided an appointment with an AvMed qualified physiotherapist within 5 working days.
BACKGROUND:
Musculoskeletal injury (MSI) within military aircrew has been shown to occur at a significantly higher rate compared to the general and non-flying military population. A
2019 survey conducted by QinetiQ reported that approximately 60% of RW aircrew experienced flight related neck or back pain in the last 12 months. These symptoms were most frequently attributed to prolonged static postures, particularly when combined with use of night vision goggles (NVG) and aircraft seating. The operational impact of MSI was primarily evaluated in terms of whether aircrew experienced any difficulty performing safety
critical tasks, and the frequency and duration aircrew either self-declared or were medically declared unfit flying.
In a 2019 study, Vail et al. investigated the 12-month prevalence of significant flight related neck pain amongst UK military RW aircrew, finding a prevalence rate of 39%. Of those affected, 46% indicated that their
pain significantly impaired their performance, with 31.5% stating it effected flight safely or effectively, and 14.5% requiring duty modifications.
More recently, a 2025 survey conducted by RAF Odiham PCRF explored pain prevalence and associated risk factors across the tS RW aircrew community. Among the 274 respondents, 40%
reported occasional pain when flying, 18% reported frequent pain, and 2% experienced constant flight-related pain. The duration of the most severe pain episodes varied: 25% reported pain lasting 1-4 days, while 11% experienced pain exceeding 4 days. Notably, 20% of aircrew were grounded because of pain and nearly half of these individuals remained unfit for up to 2 weeks, significantly impacting the flying programme and operational readiness.
The most frequently reported anatomical sires of pain were the
neck (52%) and lower back (49%). Alarmingly, 70% of respondents reported never performing neck strengthening exercises and 61% reported never engaging with the ACP. This highlights the urgent requirement to review the current MSI preventative strategies, including restoring trust in trust in the military medical and rehabilitation systems, and most importantly, building a culture where physical and mental wellbeing and occupational conditioning are proactively prioritised by all aircrew.
RAF Odiham’s AS1 Lucy Robinson Honoured at UKAF Powerlifting Awards
RAF Odiham’s AS1 Lucy Robinson has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to Service sport at the inaugural UK Armed Forces (UKAF) Powerlifting Seminar and Awards Ceremony, held on Thursday, 21 August, at RAF Henlow.
Lucy was presented with the prestigious UKAF Powerlifting Chair’s Award, one of the most sought-after accolades in Service Powerlifting. The award celebrates individuals who embody the ethos and values of military powerlifting, demonstrating exceptional leadership, character, and commitment to the sport.
Over her career, Lucy has achieved remarkable success as an athlete, representing the RAF and UKAF at the highest levels of competition. Beyond her achievements on the platform, she has become a driving force in developing the next generation of lifters. Serving as the RAF Powerlifting 2IC Coaching Lead and recently appointed UKAF Female Head Coach, Lucy dedicates her time to mentoring athletes and sharing her expertise through coaching sessions and educational content on social media.
Her efforts have not only elevated the standard of
powerlifting within the RAF but also helped foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for lifters of all levels across the Services.
The event at RAF Henlow brought together athletes, coaches, and committee members from the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force for a day of collaboration, professional development, and celebration. Alongside workshops and a keynote from polar explorer Al Sylvester MBE, the awards evening highlighted the achievements of individuals whose dedication has helped powerlifting thrive as a triService sport.
Speaking after the ceremony, Lucy said:
“It’s an honour to receive this award, but the real reward
has been seeing how the sport has grown and how many new athletes are coming through. I’m excited to keep building on this success and to help develop the future of military powerlifting.”
This recognition underscores the impact Lucy has made, not just as a competitor, but as a leader, mentor, and ambassador for Service sport.
RAF Odiham has an International Rugby Player in its midst!
February saw Mission Support Flight’s Corporal Luke Shpylka represent the Ukraine in Rugby’s European Conference at the Budapest Rugby Centre.
Making his debut against the Hungarian National team, Luke started at tight head prop (No 3), completing 60 minutes of the match, where the Ukraine came out comprehensive winners, with a score of 86-10!
Qualifying to represent the Ukraine through his Ukrainian Grandad, Luke said “it was a very proud moment for me and my family and also a huge achievement” having waited for 4 years to represent the Ukraine, despite the challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic and the Ukrainian war.
The next games are in the Autumn in the European Rugby Conference. RAF Odiham is very proud to have an international representative and wish Luke all the best in his future rugby endeavours!
Cpl
Lyndsey Salmon
RAF Odiham Eagles Rugby Club
On Thursday 19th June RAF
Odiham Eagles Rugby Club, took part in the RAF Rugby Union 2025 Binbrook Bomb Rugby 7’s Tournament, with only one aim- To retain the title for the third time in a row! Since the Binbrook Bomb’s inception in 1962-63 Season this feat has only been achieved once, also by RAF Odiham between 2011-2013.
At a sweltering 30 Degree RAF Northolt, the first game awaited an old foe, Marham Bulls RFC, a close fought game finishing 26-21 to Odiham.
Next up Northwood ending in a solid 38-5 to the Eagles.
Following this it was our neighbours- RAF Benson. This match finished 31-19 to the “Pride of JAC” -RAF Odiham.
The final pool match was RAF Waddington. Waddington had looked to be our toughest opposition all day, however Odiham Eagles were flying high and weren’t going to be stopped. What followed was a 14 minute try fest- Blistering runs, sublime passes and one interception with a header, all resulting in tries scoredOdiham Eagles dominated to win 49-19.
Winning the pool stage, undefeated and due to the high temperatures, a straight final would take place between 1st and 2nd place. Odiham once again would face RAF Marham.
The Bulls were fired up, wanting revenge for their earlier defeat to the Eagles and to regain the bomb we took from them in 2023. Despite their best efforts to disrupt our flow, a dominant team performance resulted in a final score of 22-10 and Odiham completing a record equalling “three-peat”.
“The Bomb” will once again take pride of place in it’s true home, behind the bar at Sporties! Where we intend to keep it in 2026 for a record breaking fourth time!
Up The Eagles!
Fg Off Harry Davidson
CT Terry Robson
Sgt Gav Berry
Cpl Luke Shpylka- Captain
Cpl Patrick Evans- Vice Captain
Cpl Dannie Hill
AS1(T) Ryan Smith
AS1(T) Joe “Lenny” Bowdell
AS1(T) Ollie Venn
AS1 (T) Tom Jones
AS1(T) Lewis Phipps
AS1 Haydn Boulton
AS1 Connor Davidson
WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE PART OF THE RECORD BREAKING “FOUR IN A ROW” ATTEMPT IN 2026?
Odiham Eagles are keen to welcome new players to the team for the 25-26 season and beyond! Whether you are new to the sport, returning after a break or an internationally capped player, there is a place for you in the Odiham Eagles. Training takes place at 1600 Monday and Wednesday, either on the Station Pitch or the Astro.
For more information, please contact Sgt Gav Berry - Team Manager, Fg Off Harry Davidson - OIC or CT Terry Robson - Head Coach.
Odiham Eagles 2025 Binbrook Bomb Squad
It gave us the headspace to rearrange our finances and positively plan - I’d encourage anyone in the RAF who needs help to get in touch with the Fund.”
– Serving member of the RAF
GORDON’S SCHOOL
Proudly Supporting Forces Families for over a Century
YEARS 7, 9 AND 12 BOARDING PLACES AVAILABLE
“Students who attend the boarding school provision exceed their predicted outcomes and consistently reach, and further, their potential”
OFSTED BOARDING INSPECTION REPORT 2019 For Autumn Open Events visit www.gordons.
.