Issue 118 - Spring/Summer 2026

Issue 118

Spring/Summer 2026

Courage

The magazine of

War Widows Association of Great Britain

www.warwidows.org.uk • Reg Charity No. 1002656

Member of the Confederation of Service Charities (Cobseo)

PATRON His Majesty King Charles III KG KT GCB OM AK QSO CC PC ADC

PRESIDENT: The Baroness Fookes of Plymouth, DBE DL VICE-PRESIDENTS: The Viscount Younger of Leckie The Rt Hon Baroness Garden of Frognal, PC The Baroness Crawley of Edgbaston, The Baroness Watkins of Tavistock AMBASSADORS: Dame Shirley Bassey DBE, CH DBE, David Domoney C Hort, FCI Hort TRUSTEES CHAIRMAN: Chris Dziuba: chair@warwidows.org.uk VICE CHAIR: Debbie Bowles: vice-chair@warwidows.org.uk SECRETARY: Sue Raw: secretary@warwidows.org.uk TREASURER: Richard Steele: treasurer@warwidows.org.uk GOVERNANCE TRUSTEE: Jeannette Strachan: governance@warwidows.org.uk REGIONAL ORGANISER LIASON TRUSTEE: Liz Carter: rol@warwidows.org.uk REMEMBRANCE TRUSTEE: Chris Dziuba: remembrance@warwidows.org.uk EVENTS TRUSTEE: Kerry McNally: events@warwidows.org.uk POLICIES TRUSTEE: Terry Whittles: policies@warwidows.org.uk CONTRACTS & DISPUTES TRUSTEE: David Whimpenny: contracts@warwidows.org.uk COURAGE TRUSTEE: courage@warwidows.org.uk COMMITTEE ASSISTANTS: Sue Concannon: Book-keeper, bookkeeper@warwidows.org.uk Helen Raw: IT & website, administrator@warwidows.org.uk Susan Williams: Merchandise, merchandise@warwidows.org.uk Helen Hudson: Assistant to database. database@warwidows.org.uk Margaret Hind: RO assistant, ROassistant@warwidows.org.uk §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Please note that we are continuing to use the address War Widows’ Association Mail, PO Box 29265, Dunfermline, KY12 2FH for mail

“Campaigning, Caring, Remembering Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”

Contents Re Reports.........................................................................................................................................................4 Service of Remembrance for Flight Lieutenant James Edward Downey and Flight Lieutenant John Keith Roberts...............................................9 From Sidmouth to Toowoomba.............................................................................................. 10 AGM 2026 Bradford.......................................................................................................................... 11 The Lost Chain of Bradford: Civic Pride, Wartime Theft, and Renewal... 17 A visit to Salts Mill and Saltaire............................................................................................ 18 In the beginning...................................................................................................................................... 22 Noticeboard................................................................................................................................................. 23 Coffee with a Difference!............................................................................................................... 27

The War Widows’ Quilt Finds a Permanent Home ..............................28 “A Handbag!” - The weight of age..................................................................................... 30 Future events.............................................................................................................................................. 31 The Tweed Run........................................................................................................................................ 32 International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers........................................... 34 Standing with Giants........................................................................................................................ 36 HMS BELFAST............................................................................................................................................ 38

Naples and Pizza: A Slice of History................................................................................. 40 Rosalind Dillon-Lee................................................................................................................................ 41 In Memory....................................................................................................................................................... 42

From Basra to Staffordshire: The Story of a Memorial..................................43 ROL Report & R O Reports....................................................................................................... 44 -3-

Reports

President’s Ponderings

Presidents Ponderings One small fall at the end of February and I managed to fracture my hip! I had no idea how long it would take me to recover full mobility and even now in early May I am not quite there. Despite that my brain and tongue have been in good working order.

One mana long and e Desp good

It did

aAen It did, however, frustrate me that I could not attend much the AGM as it has always been for me a much loved old fr weekend. I have so enjoyed meeting old friends myse and making new ones and throwing myself into the that t various events planned. I am told that the events this I feel year were greatly enjoyed so I feel distinct twinges I was able in theory to join the AGM itself remote of envy.

remote system broke down on a regular basis .Iro

before I was able in theory to join the AGM itself remotelypeople but as some of youbegan will know the meeEng and all conEnue give the President'sIaddress.

At that point I was su already the remote system broke down on a regular basis .Ironically was able to join quite Eme - andtoseveral panics and talk to various people before the meeting beganforand allsome continued be fine tilllater! the moment I was due to give the President’s address.

At that point I was suddenly I was of course aware that at this parEcular AGM cut off and was not able to re-join for quite some time - and panics later! that wereseveral controversial and the first one

lacked th

others were. I have had enough experience of oth I was of course aware that at this particular AGM there were some propositions for change is one of the hardest concepts to sell. Keep change that were controversial and the first one lacked the two thirds majority to worrying that change will inevitably make things w be carried though others were. I have had enough experience of other charities other hand change to meet changingand circumstance organisations to know that change is one of the hardest concepts to sell. organisaE ons have simply goneKeeping out of existence so for me as Presidenmake t to offer what we are familiar with and worrying that change will inevitably things worse an opinion as it is the most Ichanging would ask you all to do is to keep an op is very understandable. On the other hand change The to meet circumstances may arise in the future. may also be important as some organisations have simply gone out of existence sooner or later by failing to do so .It is not for me as President to an opinion as it I am sure many offer of us are concerned about the incr is the members who make the final decisions. The most would youtoallbetoworking do is to cryingI need forask leaders for peace ra memay keep an open mind before making any decisions that arise in the future. to the outstand ing role played by our very own State Visit to the United States, a visit that many

th I am sure many of us are concerned about the increasing inQueen the world and was ably conflicts supported by Camilla and he show the crying need for leaders to be working for peace ratherthe than speaking truthincreasing in a non-aggrconflict. essive way, laced w message about thePatron value of working This brings me to the outstanding role played by our very own His Majesty together reminds m when young men and women came from across the wo King Charles on a State Visit to the United States, year a visit that many thought should not to go to the big service in Westminster Abbey have been cancelled. . He was ably supported by Queen Camilla he into showed those Garden, not onlyand stepped the breach but was also p the Cenotaph . classic British virtues of speaking the truth in a non-aggressive way, laced with a dry sense of humour. The King’s message about the value of working together reminds me that we always commemorate ANZAC Day when young men and women came from across the world to our support. I was disappointed this year not to go to the big service in Westminster Abbey with our Chairman but Vice President Sue Garden, not

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only stepped into the breach but was also present for the service and wreath laying at the Cenotaph.

Vice President Mary Watkins heroically joined the Chairman at the dawn service at Wellington Arch, which involved getting up about half past four!

I do want to pay tribute to all our Vice Presidents and must mention Baroness Crawley and Lord Younger, Christine and James, who made a valuable contribution to the AGM. I am very saddened that James has been removed from the House of Lords for the sin of being a hereditary peer. I want to assure him that he remains a valued and popular Vice President. Who of us who attended the AGM weekend in Edinburgh could forget ’s Address Chaplain a transformed James in full Scottish costume leading us in tricky traditional Scottish dancing and kidding us that it was easy!

I reflect that for the time being I am not even able to make a fool oftomyself dancing, God our Father an you from peace Grace and for all of you, I but I am determined to be able to walk on my own tworemembe feet and attend my prayersmuch In allanother r you. being confid now, un;l day loved event - our own Founders’ Day Service in the Guards’ Chapel.

I hope to see many first the from gospel Jesus.

Christ of day the un;l on comple; members there. In the meantime I wish all those who have read this a happy summer. to on it

Janet all of you It is right for me to feel this way about all of you gospel, the g defending and confirmin Jesus.

Christ of all of you with the affec;on

And this is my prayer: that your love may abou you may be able to discern what is best and ma fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus

Chaplain’s Address Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

I know t whole s about y Remem Bradfor yet I fee Brian an instantl

It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all I did not know anything about you before I wa to expect, unsure veryfor you I was of you share in God’s grace with me. God can testify how I long all what of you with because I could su how sure wasn’t I and and inspiring the affection of Christ Jesus.

3 days with you, I realised that more than any

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound morewhat andmakes moreyou in knowledge and is why I so special and which depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best may rbe pure And this is m you…

I remembe ;meand God every and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes The giI of your Associa8on is that you care fo through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. Philippians1:2-11 -5-

who need your support. At the AGM I was ho bereaved military family members, such as ch to dwindling membership. As a military chapl

I know this is a large extract of scripture, but I wanted to share the whole section with you because it illustrates how I genuinely feel about you all. I have only met you collectively two times – for Remembrance and then for a glorious 3 days away with you in Bradford, what a beautiful hotel and such an amazing city to visit, yet I feel as if I have found a family. You have welcomed my husband Brian and I as if we were old friends and made us feel as if we instantly belonged.

I did not know anything about you before I was handed the ‘baton’ from Padre Ian and the first day I met you I was very unsure what to expect, because the work you have done over the years has been formidable and inspiring and I wasn’t sure how I could support you. That fear was quelled instantly and, after spending 3 days with you, I realised that more than anything you are a community that cares for each other which is what makes you so special and which is why I wanted to share those words from Philippians - I thank my God every time I remember you… And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more.

The gift of your Association is that you care for and love one another and are so open to welcoming others who need your support. At the AGM I was horrified to hear that unless you opened your doors to other bereaved military family members, such as children and parents, then the WWA would cease to exist due to dwindling membership. As a military chaplain I support so many people who have lost family members in the military who would benefit from being members of your Association, but they do not qualify under the current rules. I know the sister of a significant, high-ranking officer who committed suicide because he was suffering from PTSD after the war in Afghanistan, she has suffered and needed years of counselling – she had no group like yours to join. She would be an incredible asset to you if she was a member. I know many parents whose very young sons have died in car accidents, and I know children who have lost parents. One of the loveliest things I saw at the Remembrance lunch was the table where some of those young people could sit and share their stories and would not have met each other if their mums were not members of the WWA. I worked for a CRUSE bereavement summer camp for children who had lost a parent or sibling – the scheme was set up to help parents who were now single and unable to take a whole summer off work. The most profound thing I remember the children telling me was that they loved the camp because it was the only place where nobody asked them where their mum or dad was – it made them feel accepted, safe and understood.

My prayer for you is that ‘your love will abound more and more’ as you move forward and as we grow together – I personally am very grateful for the vote that has given me the opportunity t be a Member and I will always support you in any way I can.

Padre Janice

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Welcome to the summer edition of Courage. And what a s gloriously w to some n’s Corner it’s trying to be! We’ve been treatedChairma Chairman’s Corner of late—just enough to lull us into thinking it might last— Chair’s Corner Welcom Welcome to the summer to ity. edition ictabil of it’s Courag unpred tryi e.

And British ar what a famili summe more r return ble inevita Welcome to the summer edition of Courage. And what a summer it’s trying to be! We’ve been treated to some gloriously warm days of late— we? it’s trying to be! We’ve been treated to some warmway… days would it any other havegloriously wouldn’t inevita

of late—ju enough to lull us into thinking it might last—before the of late—just enough to lull us intostthinking it might last—before wouldn So inevitab ng. but le return anythi to more has been familiar r, lifeBritish Corne unpredi my last ctability Since Still,quiet. we the inevitable return to more familiar British unpredictability.

Since wouldn ’t have anywould other way… would we? on, settle into a comfm the kettle to put Still, we wouldn’t have it any other we? you Iitinvite s,way… alway always Sincechair, my last Corner, has beenthe anythin chair, a with catchlifeup and Since my last Corner, life has been anything but quiet.

So,latest. as g but quiet. So, as always, I invite you to put the kettle on, settle into a comfortable always, I invite you to put the kettle on, settle into a comfortable chair, and catch up with the latest. chair, and catch up with the latest.

After a

adventur ous fashion— in rathea Year boarding the New I began

Christ a peacef After After a peaceful Christmas, I began the ul New Yearmas, in rather more weeks ofadventurous pted sunshine a cruise, join to yluninterru Januar 1st on dos After Barba to a peacefu flight a l Christm arding fashion—boarding a flight to Barbados on 1st January to join a cruise. weeks as, I began the New Year wonderfu tonic.

I wasofjoined by inTwo adventurous fashion—bo rather more adventu rous fashion —board day ing each together a flight we made uninterrupted sunshine, seas, and aldifferent island each dayisland to be a prov Barbad nt the os on 1st most a differe of ev and January seas, to join aproved cruise. ne, tocrysta Two sunshi dcrystal rrupte uninte ofuninterr weeks weeks complete of with snow—w upted sunshin as somet e, crystal wonderful tonic. I was joined by my sister-in-law Helen, who many of you will know, seas, and a differen kn will t island you each of day many proved who , to be Helen a by my sister-in-law joined I was tonic. rful wonde wonder ful tonic.

I was joined Closer and together we made theby most of every moment.

Returning home toto ahome, distinctly my sister-in I was -law delighted Helen, who many of you will know, andtly wintrt to a distinc ing home moment.ofReturn every of momen most the made pleased to report she is looking v togethe togeth wewe made the most wintryrer UK—complete with something ahome jolt to system! ofsnow—was every t. Returning to the a distinct ly wintry UK— ! steady strides with the su to the systemmaking a jolt of the comple te with snow— was somet was someth snow— with ofhing a jolt compl system!

Closer ete to home, I was delighted ing to visit our to President at the beginning April andIam thereof was anything could bring and Closer to home, of April ing I was beginn delighte the at d to pleased to report she is looking very well.

While mobility remains a work in progress, ent until visit you our Presid realise Preside our nt visit had alread at to the ted beginni ng of April and amEaster to home, I was deligh Closer pleased thankfull to reportsteady ys persevera she is strides nce looking with she is making support of While her physiotherapist.

Ever thoughtful, aw very the progr in While mobilit a work y remains remain work mobiliaty in progres s, she well. isI (and very gwell. is lookin she to report dthere please day. making strides asked ifsteady was anything bring with me. Her answer?

A hot cross bun.

A simple with theI could support of her physiot herapis t. Ever thought ful, I asked though if tful, I a Ever ist.the therap physio her support ofbeen the with steady makin On moment there wasg anythin home front, request—until you Easter had brief of panic news of my tw g strides I realise could bring with me.already Her answer?and A hotgone! crossAbun.

A simple request A—simple bun. cross hot A r? answe tosaved Her bring me. athe smile. with Grandda bring ughter A could until Iperseverance nghad youwas ensued, butanythi thankfully a well-timed visit to M&S) day. realise Easter there already been(and and gone! A brief moment of panic ensued, but months old, isof blossomi ng ensue into qu panic nt mome brief A thankfu gone! lly perseve and been rance y (and alread a well-tim ed visit Easter to M&S) realise you until On the home front, newshad of my two favourite littlesaved girlsthe Our othe day.

M&S) saved the visit tonow a well-timedAmara, (and continues bring erance a smile.

Granddaughter thankfullytopersev has also f On theyear home one and fivenews months old, is blossoming thees front, of my two favourite littleinto these day girlsquite continu day. tolittle bringlady. a smile. Granddaughter Amara, now one year and five Feeling r ite little girls continues two favour of my front,ingnews we recen home months On the old, blossom into Dolly quite the Our other isyoung resident, thelittle dog,lady. has also found alone five for and year one now , Amara terdays, daugh a smile. to bring her feet—far less Grand nervous these though Our other young residen t, Dollyno friends. W theless dog, lady. little theher quite into ming blosso mischievous!

Feeling rather confident in progress, months old, is has also found We return her feet—fa r less nervous creative. we though recently decided to leave these days, less mischie nt, Dolly the dog, residevous! young other no Our her home alone for thes, It appears Feeling rather confident in her progres far less nervous feet— found her has firstalso time—just for a couple redecora t we recently decided to leave her home ! anticipated. ievous Let’s just say the new misch less no though days, of hours while we visited these alone for the first time—just for a couple of hours while we visited Lessonss, learned: confidence is one friends.

What could possibly progre ent in her confid g rather friends.Feelin What could possibly go wrong?

Quite a lot, as it turns out. go wrong?

Quite a lot, as it turns out.

We returned We returned homeed as… home leave home to d tocan scene that ly adecide recent only her we be describ to a scene that can only be described as… creative. creative. alone for the first time—just for a couple of hours while Itthat, appears in our absence, she had taken it upon it It appears ? Quite ourthat, ly go absence possib , she had taken could it wrong s.in What upon herself friend to a lot, as herself to redecorate—expressing her individuality in redecorate—expressing her individu described ality inthat wayscan only be we hadn’t quite a scene ed home toanticipated. returnhadn’t We ways Let’s just say the new anticipated. Let’s just say the new carpetwe didn’t stayquite looking new for very long. carpete. didn’t stay looking new for very long. creativ Lesson learned: confidence is one thing… overconfidence is quite another . had taken it upon her confidence is one thing… e, she our absenc s that, in appearlearned: ItLesson overconfidence is quite another. her individuality in ways we had sing expres redecorate— - 7 - didn’t stay looking new for very long. anticipated. Let’s just say the new carpet

Beyond family life, it has been a busy and rewarding time representing the Association at a variety of events.

One highlight was attending the Waitangi Day commemoration at the Oval in London, celebrating New Zealand’s national day and the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. It was a vibrant and uplifting evening, made all the more special by performances from a talented group of young Māori singers and dancers.

Later in April, I had the honour of attending the ANZAC Day commemorations here in London. The day began early—very early—with our arrival at Wellington Arch at 04:40 for the dawn service, accompanied by our Vice President, Baroness Watkins.

As she wryly observed, our nursing backgrounds stood us in good stead for such an hour! I later laid a second wreath at the Cenotaph, before attending a moving service at Westminster Abbey alongside Baroness Garden, with the Princess of Wales in attendance. The day concluded with a reception at Australia House, which stirred fond memories of a visit there in 2011 with my stepdaughter—an occasion neither of us will ever forget.

Finally, an update on the legacies discussed at the AGM in Bradford. As you know, the Association has been fortunate to receive two significant bequests. One is progressing in a straightforward manner. The other, however, presents a far more complex picture. With the original executor stepping aside, responsibility has fallen to us as beneficiaries.

The estate comprises both financial assets and the contents of a large property.

The property itself is held in trust for another party. Gaining access initially proved challenging, but earlier this year Trustee Jeannette and I were able to visit and begin assessing the scale of the task. Given the complexities involved, the Committee— acting on professional advice—has taken the prudent step of appointing solicitors to manage the process.

Naturally, it is tempting to look ahead and imagine the possibilities these legacies may bring. However, patience will be required; it is likely to be two to three years before matters are fully resolved.

In the meantime, thank you all, as ever, for your continued support and commitment to the Association. It is a privilege to represent you.

Chris

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Service of Remembrance for Flight Lieutenant James Edward Downeyforand Lieutenant John Keith Roberts Service of Remembrance FlightFlight Lieutenant James Edward Downey and Flight

Lieutenant John Keith Roberts Sunday January, I travelled to theofvillage of Wettenhall, near Nantwich OnOn Sunday 18th18th January, I travelled to the village Wettenhall, near Nantwich in Cheshire, in Cheshire, to join two of our members and their families at a special service of to join two of our members and their families at a special service of remembrance. The remembrance.

The occasion marked the fiftieth anniversary of the deaths of their occasion marked the fiftieth anniversary of the deaths of their husbands, Flight Lieutenant husbands, Flight Lieutenant James Edward Downey and Flight Lieutenant John Keith James Edward Downey and Flight Lieutenant John Keith Roberts, who tragically lost their Roberts, who tragically lost their lives in an air crash over the village. lives in an air crash over the village.

The service in the church, which was filled a warm and supportive The service waswas heldheld in the locallocal church, which was filled with awith warm and supportive congregation of family, friends, and members of the village community. It was a deeply congregation of family, friends, and members of the village community. It was a deeply moving and dignified occasion, thoughtfully organised by the people of Wettenhall, moving and dignified occasion, thoughtfully organised by the people of Wettenhall, whose whose care and commitment ensured a fitting tribute to the two men. care and commitment ensured a fitting tribute to the two men.

Both pilots left behind a wife and two young children. Today, those wives are Both pilots left behind a wife and two young children. Today, those wives are longstanding longstanding members of the War Widows’ Association, and it was a privilege to members of the War Widows’ Association, and it was a privilege to stand alongside them on stand alongside them on such a significant anniversary. Their strength and enduring such a significant anniversary. Their strength and enduring connection to one another remain connection to one another remain a testament to the support and fellowship that the a testament to the support and fellowship that the Association represents.

Association represents.

Following the service, the families gathered beside a commemorative plaque Following the in service, families gathered a commemorative dedicated dedicated 1977, the just one year afterbeside the accident.

Standingplaque together, theyinpaid 1977, justtribute one year afterlives the accident. tribute to the lives in quiet to the lost andStanding reflectedtogether, on the they yearspaid thatquiet have passed, united lostremembrance. and reflected on the years that have passed, united in remembrance.

This anniversary waswas not not onlyonly a time to honour the memory of two men, men, but also This anniversary a time to honour the memory ofbrave two brave buta also reminder of theoflasting impact of loss, theand importance of community, friendship, and a reminder the lasting impact ofand loss, the importance of community, friendship, remembrance in the years thatyears follow. and remembrance in the that follow.

Chris

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From Sidmouth to Toowoomba More years ago than I care to remember, I lived in RAF married quarters in Lincolnshire.

My next door neighbour, Catherine, and I were both expecting babies and our children were born a few weeks apart. Fast forward 40-something years, and Catherine and I remain close friends. So it was that on one warm June afternoon in 2025, whilst sitting in her Yorkshire garden, I thumbed through the War Widow’s Association magazine.

Making idle conversation, I commented on the fact that there was a request for penfriends; writing to people is something I have always enjoyed so I added that I would like to volunteer, but I was not actually a War Widow. My dear friend Catherine replied that this might not be an issue, and to leave it with her.

Imagine my surprise, dear readers, when within the space of a couple of weeks I had the name and email address of Helen, who lives in Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia. I can’t remember which of us made contact first (I suspect it was Helen), but over the last year or so we have corresponded regularly. Our emails cover anything and everything - our families, our faith, our everyday activities and unexpected events, our joys and sadnesses, and of course the weather. Helen is a tray-bake supremo too.

She has sent me easy and delicious slice recipes from down under, even after I had to confess that our family doesn’t like desiccated coconut!

In 2024, our born-at-RAF-Lincolnshire daughter had decided to emigrate to Australia with her Brisbane-born partner and family, settling in his home town. When we decided to visit them all in February this year, it seemed only sensible to see if we might be able to meet up with Helen, since she lived only an hour and a half’s drive away. Helen immediately invited us (me, husband and duty driver daughter) over for lunch!

We spent a lovely few hours together, and when I email her now, I can picture Helen in her lovely home with her little dog, Rilla.

So all I can say is, if you are tempted to volunteer for the penfriend initiative, then take the plunge. You never know where it might lead you – from Sidmouth to Toowoomba for example!

Clare Leeming-Latham - 10 -

AGM 2026 Bradford AGM 2026 Bradford I hadn’t been to Bradford before the AGM AGM2026 weekend, Bradfordso I didn’t know what to expect AGM 2026 Bradford city. expect from the from the city.

My first pleasant surprise was the hotel—it is ato stunning building.

We so I hadn’t been to Bradford before the AGM weekend, I didn’t know what I believe whatentrance. through entered We building. stunning a is hotel—it the was entered through what I believe must once have been the railway station surprise pleasant first My I hadn’t been to Bradford before the AGM weekend, so I didn’t know entrance. staDon what tofrom expect must once have been the railway city. the city. the from so I didn’t know what to expect AGM the to Bradford My first I hadn’t been pleasant before surprise was theweekend, hotel—it is a stunning building. We entered what through what I believe I believe through entered We building. stunning a is hotel—it the was surprise must once have been the railway staDon entrance.

My first pleasant must once have been the railway staDon entrance.

inside, I was impressed by the sweeping

Once Once inside, I was impressed by the staircase, the high ceilings, and the chandeliers. I sweeping staircase, the dhigh ceilings, and Once inside, I impresse was impresse the sweeping elegantly ago, thebysweeping d by years many I wasimagine, inside,easily Once could thestaircase chandeliers.

I could easily imagine, , ladies the ceilings, high ceilings, those and descendi the stairs chandelie rs.toI meet rs. I chandelie dressed andngthe , the high staircase many years ago, elegantly dressed ladies could easily a fitting was imagine, It ons. many years compani n ago, elegantly gentleme elegantly ago, their could easily imagine, many years descending those stairs to meet dressed Mystery Murder ngnight those Friday stairs ourdescendi for to meet to meettheir stairs setting ng those descendi ladiesladies dressed their playing gentleme job gentlemen was a setting n compani aItfantastic did ons.

It was Trustees fitting The a fitting a fitting was dinner.

It ons. compani ncompanions. gentleme their guessed for Friday oneMystery our night no Friday that ngly night Murder convinci forsetting our Friday Murder Mystery dinner.

Mystery their Murder night our for roles—so setting dinner. guessed The have Trustees you did Could a fantastic job murderer playing job who The Trustees diddidawas! jobplaying playing their fantastic afantastic Trustees Thethe dinner. their roles—so convinci ngly that no one was? guessed guessed it who no one convincingly thatthat roles—so convincingly no one guessed roles—so their who the murderer Could you have guessed have you Could was!was! murderer the who who thewere murderer was!

Could you have telling hotel theguessed inside plaques brass There who it was? was? who iteveryone who guessed was? Formby and Laurel and thatit George There ago were long that not hotel plaques And inside there. the stayed telling hadbrass telling Hardy the hotel inside plaques brass werewere There There brass plaques inside the hotel everyone filming that whilst George hotel the Formby at stayed and and Laurel Portillo Laurel and Michael and Formby everyone that George telling everyone that George Formby Hardy had stayed there. e. And programm ago ago and longlong television that that not not And there. stayed Hardyahad Laurel and Hardy had stayed there.

And not Michael Portillo stayed at hotel the hotel whilst filming filming whilst Michael Portillo stayed at the a television that long ago Michael Portillo stayed at the programm e. a television programme.

hotel whilst filming a television programme.

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Walking around the City of Bradford I was amazed by the architecture. I knew it was a mill town, and that it had been the UK’s City of Culture in 2025, but I really had no idea it would Walking around the City Bradford I was amazed by the architecture.

I knew it was be so beauDful.

There is a of very well known book store housed in a deconsecrated church by the architecture. I knew it was a mill amazed I wasthe Bradford City of thethat around Walking a mill town, and it had been UK’s City of Culture in 2025, but I really had that takes your breath had no idea it would Walking I really but in 2025,by thethe CityUK’s of Bradford City of Culture I was amazed been had away. itaround the that architect town, and ure. I knew ithoused was a mill no idea town, it would be so beautiful. There is a very well known bookrated store in a church a deconsec in but that itishad store housed book beenwell theknown UK’s City a very of Culture There l. church in 2025, I really had no idea it would be so beauDfuand deconsecrated that takes your breath away. be so beauDful.

There is a very well known book store housed in a deconsecrated church that takes your breath away. that takes your breath away.

A lovely City that is certainly on my list for a revisit, sometime soon.

A lovely City that is certainly on my list for a revisit, someDme soon.

A lovely City that is certainly on my list for a revisit, someDme soon.

A lovely City that is certainly on my list for a revisit, someDme soon.

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Friday Friday Friday Evening Friday Evening Evening at Evening GATSBY atatGATSBY GATSBY at GATSBY MANOR MANOR MANOR MANOR It wasIt Itthe was It was was Roaring the the Itthe was Roaring Roaring Roaring 2020’s the Roaring 2020’s 2020’s 2020’s 2020’s There There There was There awas was Party There was aa Party Party awas Party a Party 9 Friends 9 99 Friends Friends Gathered Friends 9 Friends Gathered Gathered Gathered Gathered One was One One One shot was was was One Dead shot shot shot was in Dead Dead Dead his shot Study in inDead in his hishis Study Study in Study his Study The Police The The The Police Police Inspector Police TheInspector Inspector Police Inspector wasInspector called was was was called called tocalled was Investigate to to called to Investigate Investigate Investigate to Investigate

InspectorInspector Inspector Case Inspector Case Case Inspector Case Case

Everyone Everyone Everyone Everyone hadEveryone anhad had Alibi, had an anan but Alibi, had Alibi, Alibi, they an but but Alibi, but also they they they had but also also also they a had Motive had had also aa Motive Motive ahad Motive a Motive

Ally Money Ally AllyAlly Money Money Money Ally Chris Money Tingle Chris Chris Chris Tingle Tingle Kendall Tingle ChrisMintcake Kendall Tingle Kendall Kendall Mintcake Mintcake Kendall Angel Mintcake Voices Mintcake Angel Angel Angel Voices Voices Voices Angel Voices

Ryan Aire Ryan Ryan Ryan Aire Ryan Grey Aire Aire Aire Shades GreyGrey Shades Grey Grey Shades Jay Shades Shades Walker JayJay Walker Jay Jay Walker Walker Alex Walker AahAlexAlex Aah Alex Alex Aah Aah Aah

Can you Can Can guess Can you Can you guess who you you guess guess did guess who it? who who did who did it? did did it? it? it?

The AGM TheThe 2026 AGM The The AGM was AGM 2026 AGM the 2026 2026 was first 2026 was the was duty was the first the for first the duty first our first duty for new duty duty for our padre, forour for new our new the padre, new Reverend padre, padre, the padre, the Reverend the Janice Reverend the Reverend Reverend Honey-Morgan.

Janice Janice Janice Honey-Morgan.

Janice Honey-Morgan.

Honey-Morgan.

Honey-Morgan.

-our 13 - new We welcome We We welcome We Janice We welcome welcome welcome to Janice the Janice Janice Association to Janice the totothe Association to the Association the and Association Association hope and that and hope and she and hope hope that enjoys hope that she that that she her enjoys she she enjoys time enjoys her enjoys with her time her us. her time with time time with us. with with us.us.us.

The AGM 2026 was the first duty for our new padre, the Reverend Janice HoneyMorgan. We welcome Janice to the Association and hope that she enjoys her time Ryan Aire with us.

Grey Shades Jay Walker Alex Aah

The business of the AGM took place on Saturday and the Committee presented 5 Aah Alex did Walker Jayyou Grey Shades Can guessinwho Aire new motionsRyan for consideration.

Attendees voted favour it? of 4 of the motions and the Committee will review the duty 5thCan motion and re-present it members at a future The AGM 2026 was the first for our it? to padre, who thedid guess Reveren younew d Janice Honey-Morgan.

We welcome date. One of the motions thatAssociat was voted forhope means that there are now only 2 types of Janice to the ion and that she enjoys her time with us. padre, the Reverend Janice Honey-Morgan. new our for duty first the membership: Member and Association Friend. was 2026 AGM The The business of the AGM took place on Saturday and the Committeewith us. d 5 new presente

We welcome Janice to the Association and hope that she enjoys her time

motions consider ation. Attendee s voted in favour of 4relax of theand Following thefor day’s business, members were able to socialise a Gala motions and thewith Commit tee on Saturday and the Committee presented 5 new place th motion AGM took the of 5 will businessthe The review andLord re-prese nt it to member s at a future date.

One dinner. We were joined by the Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Bradford who were of the motions ee Committ the and motions the of 4 of favour in voted s Attendee tion. that there are now considera motions that was for voted for means only 2feel types of member ship:ofMember and motions extremely gracious whoand made the toccasion more evening’s theThe One date. special. a future at even th motion it to members re-presen 5and will review Associat ionthe Friend. and Member hip: members of entertainment was an ABBA tribute band—everyone knew the songs, and we danced types 2 only that was voted for means that there are now Followin g the day’s business , member s were able the night away. to relax and socialise with a Gala dinner.

Association Friend.

We were joined by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoressand of Bradford socialise with whoa Gala dinner.

able to relax ly members were business, g the day’ssome Followin On Sunday morning, members attended the early service inwere the extreme magnificent gracious and who made the y ment was occasion feel weresextremel even moresspecial. of Bradford The who evening’ Mayores Lady and entertain Mayor by the Lord joined were We Cathedral. an ABBA tribute band—everyone knew evening’s entertainment was the songs, and weThe more special. danced feel even

the night away. gracious and who made the occasion and we danced the night away. an ABBA tribute band—everyone knew the songs, On Sunday morning, some members attended the members attended the morning, Sunday On early service in thesome magnific ent Cathedral. ent Cathedral. magnific the in early service

at 11:00, we were picked up by coach and Later, at Later, 11:00, we were picked up by coach lovely afternoon, and we returned with and a was It away. drive short a just taken to Saltaire, to Saltaire, taken just a short drive away. It was a lovely afternoon, and we returned with dinner. for dress anddress change of time of time to to Later,plenty atplenty 11:00, we were picked upfor bydinner. coach and taken to Saltaire, just a short drive change and forwardand s, looking our goodbye we said on Monday with and returned end, we away.AllItAll was a lovely afternoon, and plenty of time to change come must things good good things must come totoananend, and on Monday we said our goodbyes, looking forward time. next again meeting to dinner. dresstofor meeting again next time.

Chris All good things must come to an end, and on Monday we said our goodbyes, looking Chris forward to meeting again next time.

Chris

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Friday night Friday night

F

Saturday evening Friday night

Friday n

AGM sat am before the business picture of just the chain?

Saturday night Can you use your m

This is th picture i

Can you borders t

Saturday at the AGM - 15 -

Saturday

Saturday evening Saturday evening

Saturday evening

AGM sat am before the business

Saturday evening Friday night

Sat evening

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Saturda

The Lost Chain of Bradford: Civic Pride, Wartime Theft, and Renewal In 1854, the Mayor of Bradford, Samuel Smith, presented the borough with a magnificent gold chain of office, intended to be worn on ceremonial occasions as a symbol of civic dignity and authority. Crafted in an elegant ribbon pattern and fastened with a medallion, the chain carried a richly decorated badge. Together, they weighed 29.5 ounces and cost £250 - an impressive investment that reflected Bradford’s growing confidence and status during the mid-19th century.

Over time, the chain evolved. In 1937, it was revalued at £562 and further embellished with two finely modelled gold figures - a ram and an Angora goat - drawn from the town’s coat of arms. These additions enhanced an already striking piece, reinforcing its symbolic connection to Bradford’s industrial heritage.

The chain’s history took a dramatic turn on 4 December 1945. Alderman Kathleen Chambers JP, Bradford’s first female Lord Mayor, travelled to Leeds to attend a university reception. En route, she stopped at the offices of the Northern Committees’ Association for the Blind, where she served as chairman. Her official vehicle, an Austin 24, was parked in a driveway and soon became hemmed in by other cars.

The chain of office had been concealed with care inside a briefcase, itself hidden within a secret compartment in the car. It was not visible from outside. Yet, during a brief period when the vehicle was left unattended, it was stolen. Although the car was recovered later that evening, the briefcase had been emptied and the chain had vanished.

A joint investigation by Bradford and Leeds police followed, while the press suggested the theft may have been premeditated. Despite the offer of a £100 reward from the chain’s insurers, no trace of the original piece was ever found. At the time, its value was estimated at £1,000. In 1946, three Leeds men were brought before the courts, and one was subsequently imprisoned after evidence indicated that the chain had been broken up.

In the austere years following the Second World War, with gold in scarce supply, Bradford faced the loss of one of its most important civic symbols. A public appeal was launched, calling upon citizens to contribute whatever gold they could spare. The response was remarkable. Donations ranged from rings and coins to military insignia and everyday items such as pencil holders, collectively amounting to the 100 ounces required.

From these contributions, a new chain of office was fashioned in Birmingham by Fattorini and Sons Ltd., under the direction of chief designer William Norman. Completed in March 1947, it returned to Bradford in time for formal presentation at the centenary meeting of the Council in June of that year.

An inscription on the reverse of the new chain records its origins - a lasting tribute not only to craftsmanship, but to the collective spirit of a community determined to restore a cherished emblem of civic identity.

Though the original chain was lost to history, its story endures: a tale of pride, intrigue, and renewal at the heart of Bradford’s civic life.

Chris - 17 -

A visit to Salts Mill and Saltaire aireoutside the hotel, and Salt SaltofstheMill OnA thevisit Sundayto morning AGM and we boarded a coach travelled all of four miles to Saltaire village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Saltaire village, a A visit to Salts Mill and Saltto aire

all of four miles and travelled the hotel,represent outside coach boarded WeMill Salts and athe village of Saltaire a significant chapter in British industrial Heritage Site.

World UNESCO and social history. Saltaire is renowned for its pioneering approach to workers’ l welfare and urban planning.

It became a UNESCO World Heritage Siteindustria in 2001. in British We chapter nt all boarded a coach a significa tand outside represen the hotel, of Saltaire travelled the village and of four miles to Saltaire village, a Salts Mill UNESCO World Heritage Site. d for its pioneering approach to workers' renowne is Saltaire history. social and Salts Mill was established in 1853 by Sir Titus Salt, a prominent industrialist and UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. . It became amade planningpreviously welfare and urban philanthropist.

Salt his fortune by innovating in the textile Salts Mill and had the village of Saltaire represent a significant chapter in British industrial industry, and notably the manufacture of its alpaca wool products. Facing the dire socialthrough history. Saltaire is renowne for nt industria promineng a pioneeri approachlisttoand workers' was established in 1853 by Sir Titusd Salt, Salts Mill working conditions pollution in Bradford at that time, Salt sought to create a better welfare and and urban planning .

It became textile the a in UNESC ng O World innovati by Heritage fortune his Site in 2001. made ly previous had Salt philanthropist. environment for his workers.

He commissioned Salts Mill, a state-of-the-art textile dire the Facing . industry, notably through the manufacture of alpaca wool products Salts Mill wasRiver establish ed factory, beside the Aire, taking advantage of the waterway for transportation in a 1853 by create Sir to Titus sought Salt, Salt a promine time, nt industrialist and working conditions and pollution in Bradford at that philanthropist. Salt had previously made his fortune andbetter power. a state-ofMill, Saltsby innovati ng in the-art the textile environment for his workers. He commissioned industry, notably through the manufacadvanta for. Facing the dire y ture of alpaca waterwa the wool of ge products taking Aire, textile factory, beside the River working conditions and pollution in Bradford at that time, Salt sought to create a transportation and power. better environment for his workers. He commissioned Salts Mill, a state-of-the-art textile factory, beside the River Aire, taking advantage of the waterwa y for transportation and power.

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Alongside the mill, Sir Titus Salt envisioned and constructed Saltaire—a model village designed provide his workers with qualityand housing, sanitation, and amenities.

The Alongside theto mill, Sir Titus Salt envisioned constructed Saltaire—a model village was meticulously planned, featuring neat rows of stone houses, a church, village designed to provide his workers with quality housing, sanitation, and a school, a hospital, alms houses and recreational facilities. Salt’s approach was amenities.

The village was meticulously planned, featuring neat rowswould of stone revolutionary: he believed that improving workers’ living conditions foster loyalty, health,aand productivity.

Part alms of thathouses was insisting that his ‘model village’Salt's houses, a church, school, a hospital, and recreational facilities. be alcohol free! That was the until the 2000s, workers' when a bar opened in the approach was revolutionary: he case believed thatearly improving living conditions village – called “Don’t Tell Titus”! Unsurprisingly, some members were keen to would foster loyalty, health, and productivity. Part of that was insisting that his ‘model sample its beverages!

village’ be alcohol free! That was the case until the early 2000s, when a bar opened Salts Mill was a marvel of Victorian engineering, equipped with advanced machinery in theand village – called “Don’t Tell Titus”! Unsurprisingly, some members were keen to expansive production spaces. The mill and village were designed to minimise sample its beverages! pollution and overcrowding. Saltaire’s amenities included public baths, a library, and green spaces, reflecting Salt’s commitment to social reform. His model both copied,

Salts and Millinspired was a marvel of Victorian engineering, with advanced machinery similar developments across Britain,equipped demonstrating how philanthropy and expansive production spaces. The mill and village were designed to minimise and industry could coexist. pollution and overcrowding. Saltaire’s amenities included public baths, a library, and green spaces, reflecting Salt’s commitment to social reform. His model both copied, and inspired similar developments across- 19 Britain, demonstrating how philanthropy and industry could coexist.

Salts Mill Today After weaving finished in the mid-1980s, the Mill was acquired in 1987 by Jonathan Silver, a visionary businessman and entrepreneur. The Mill was in a dilapidated state, but Silver saw a future as a cultural and commercial centre, housing galleries, shops, Salts MillSalts Today Mill Today and restaurants.

After weaving finished in the mid-1980s, the Millwhich was the acquired in 1987 by number Jonathan weaving finished in the mid-1980s, Mill was in 1987 by Today, SaltsAfter Mill houses the 1857 gallery, displays aacquired large of Jonathan works by Silver, a visionary and entrepreneur.

Theof Mill was inMill a dilapidated Silver,businessman aartist visionary businessman and entrepreneur.

The wasas in well a dilapidated the Bradford-born David Hockney (a friend Jonathan Silver), as works state, Silver saw a future asaafuture culturalas and housing by otherbut local artists. state, but Silver saw a commercial cultural and centre, commercial centre, housing galleries, shops, and restaurants. galleries, shops, and restaurants.

As well as the Mill, members enjoyed exploring Saltaire village - the streets named Today, Mill eleven houses the gallery, which displays aplaying large number of works by the Today, Saltschildren; Mill1857 houses theWurlitzer 1857 gallery, which displays a large number of works by after SirSalts Titus’s the organ in Victoria Hall; ornate the Bradford-born artist David Hockney (a friend of Jonathan Silver), as well as the Bradford-born artist David Hockney (a friend of Jonathan Silver), as well as and unique United Reform Church where another organ was playing ; the canal – and by other localbyartists. other local artists. ofworks course theworks pub!

As well as the enjoyed exploring Saltaire village - the streets AsMill, wellmembers as the Mill, members enjoyed exploring Saltaire village -named the streets named after Sir Titus’s eleven children; thechildren; Wurlitzerthe organ playing in Victoria Hall; the after Sir Titus’s eleven Wurlitzer organ playing in Victoria Hall; the ornate and unique Reform Church where another organ was playing ; the playing ; the ornateUnited and unique United Reform Church where another organ was canal – and of course theofpub! canal – and course the pub!

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Paul Boot Paul Booth

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In the beginning In the beginning God created the earth.

It was formless and void, but he gave it new birth.

He set the sun, moon, and stars in their courses above.

It’s created by God, created with love.

Rem

Let there be light, let there be light.

Separate the day from the night, It’s a beautiful evening and a beautiful dawn, And God saw it was good and creation was born.

Plants yielding seed all over the land.

Trees bearing fruit by God’s mighty hand.

Fish in the seas and birds in the skies.

Beasts roaming the earth.

It was good in God’s eyes.

“Let us make man from our image”. God said.

“Over all living things we’ll make him the head”.

He formed Adam from dust and breathed into him life, And took out a rib and give him Eve for a wife.

By Roy Stephenson

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Notice board

membe

E ring WcoEmLeCouOr M d hope new members an

wel We would like to your magazine. you enjoy reading the events ons about any of ti es qu y an ve ha ork of Should you more about the w t ou d fin to e lik ur Trustees, listed or would contact one of yo se ea pl n io at ci ver. the Asso the inside front co contact details on

Courage artic les

We do hope you enjoy reading these articles. If you have an unusual hobby or have been somewhere special lately, we’d welcome an article or some photos from you. Just send it in to courage@warwidows.org.uk We look forward to hearing from you.

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g n i n g i Mem be rshi p Ca rd s ampa

FULL members of the Wa r Widows’ Association are afforded the privilege of Temporary Ho norary Membership of the Un ion Jack Club (UJC), Sandell Street, Lon don SE1 8UJ; this privile ge enables Full members to access to the club’s facilities upon presen tation of a War Widows’ Association Me mbership Card. To obtai n a Membership Card Full members should send their full contact de tails, full name and address including postcode (BLOCK CAPIT ALS), telephone number, together with a copy of your awards notifi cation to confirm your entitlement under the War Pension Scheme or Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, you should also include a Pa ssport size photo and also enclose a stamped addressed en vel op e; please send to the Membership Secretary, War Widows’ Association, c/o 199 Borough High Street , London, SE1 1AA. It ma y take a number of weeks for your applicat ion to be processed as the Association is managed totally by volun teers and does not have any paid staff or permanent offices.

Caring

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Notice

Perm issio n For Courage Phot ogra phs!

If you are attending any event organised by the Association Photographs/videos will be taken. By allowing your photograph to be taken you are agreeing to it being used by the Association in any of the Associations publications, whether print, online or in any promotional materials. If you do not wish your photograph to be used in this manner you need to ensure that you do not put yourself in a position where you will be included in the photograph. It is not always feasible for the photographer to ask permission each time, especially where there is a large group or we are in a public place.

Remem

b

ng Vetera ns-UK Con tacetridet ails

Free Helpline 0808 1914 2 18 (UK Only)/+44 1253 866043 (Overseas) Via email to: veterans-uk@mod.uk Website:- www.gov.uk/veterans-uk Via Letter to: Ministry of Defence, Norcross, Thornton Cleveleys, Lancashire, FY5 3WP Please include:- Full Name, Address, Postcode , Country (if overseas), daytime telephone num ber with dialling code the best time to contact you by telephone during the daytime, the time difference to GMT (if overseas). If your query relates to a pension issue include your National Insurance Number and reference number.

Caring

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board

Changes of Details

It is important for members to make sure the information that the Association holds on you in its database is current and accurate; if your details are not up to date you could be missing out on important information.

Therefore, if you change your address or wish to inform us of any other change to your membership please email database@warwidows.org.uk as soon as possible; or write to War Widows’ Association, PO Box 29265, DUNFERMLINE, KY12 2FH. Please Note: You need to ensure that it is the War Widows’ Association that you have informed of any change to your details as other agencies are not permitted to pass on information to a third party due to Data Protection.

g n REMEMBER i n g i ampa

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PLEASE NOTE: While every effort is made to include all contributions there are times when this is not always possible; if your contribution is received after the deadline date we regret that there can be no guarantee it will be included in the magazine.

Please send all contributions to the Courage email address.

Did you know the Royal Star and Garter has four modern homes providing residential and nursing care?

These home in High Wycombe, Solihull, Surbiton and Worthing, and they all warmly welcomes veterans who have served in the UK Armed Forces, including Reservists and those who completed National Service, as well as their partners, spouses or widows.

The Royal Star and Garter which is a charity also provide day care and a telephone friendship service.

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Notice board

Rem

Some options to help with travelling around

The HM Forces Railcard Operated by the Royal British Legion The HM Forces railcard available through the Royal British legion (this card is not currently accepted in Northern Ireland). To be eligible you must be in receipt of a Forces Family Pension from the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS) 1975 or AFPS 2005 AND a War Widows / War Widowers Pension OR An Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 2005 Survivors Guaranteed Income Payment (SGIP) For more information visit the www.britishlegion.org.uk or telephone Edd Robinson, Grants manager on 0808 802 8080 or email centralgrantsteam@britishlegion.org.uk. or write to The Pensions Officer (Railcards) The Royal British Legion, 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA War Widows Association Senior Railcard - operated by the War Widows’ Association A small number of war widow/ers may not be eligible to apply for the HM Forces War Widow/ers Railcard; if this is the case you may apply for a War Widows’ Association Senior Railcard. You must be over 60 years of age, a Full member of the War Widows’ Association and in receipt of a War Widow/ers Pension.

The application form is available to download from our website www.warwidows.org.uk or by emailing the Secretary at secretary.warwidows.org.uk or by writing to: The Secretary, The War Widows’ Association of GB c/o 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA Veterans Concessionary Travel Scheme (VCTS) Operated by Transport for London.

War Widows/ers, AFCS War Widows and recognised partners of any age, in receipt of ongoing payments from the War Pension Scheme or the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme may apply for a VCTS Oyster Photo Card which entitles the bearer to free travel at any time in London on the bus, tube, Docklands Light Railway and London Overground Services. There are some concessions on travel on mainline rail services just outside the Greater London Zone.

For more information and details on how to apply please visit http://www. tfl.gov.uk/fares-and-payments/adult-discounts-and-concessions/veteransoyster-photocard?intcmp=10819 or call 0343 222 1234 - 26 -

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to

Coffee with a Difference!

Coffee with a Difference!

I recently received a gi0 from my step-daughter, who lives in Australia. It was a =n o Nothing unusual aboutmythat, you might think.

But emblazoned Ibeans. recently received a gift from step-daughter, who lives in Australia. proudly It was a on the tin coffee Nothing unusual about that, you might think. But emblazoned theof=n werebeans. the words:

MOST EXPENSIVE COFFEE IN THE WORLD.” mem“THE bering Well, naturally, curiosity took over and I turned to m reliable research assistant — Mr Google. proudly on the side of the tin were the words:

“THE MOST EXPENSIVE COFFEE IN THE WORLD.”

Well, naturally, curiosity took over and I turned to my ever-reliable research assistant — Mr Google.

The coffee, it turns out, is famous in Indonesia. The be

Mandheling grown infamous South Sumatra.

Also na=v The coffee,beans it turns out, is in Indonesia. part of the world is a creature called the civet.

The beans are Mandheling beans grown in South At this Sumatra.

AlsoMr native to this of the world is had to consult Google oncepart again because, un=l the a creature calledwas the either civet. At this point I had assumed a civet a small French car or to consult Mr Google once again because, until Shakespearean character. then, I had assumed a civet was either a small

In French fact, civets small, nocturnal, character. cat-like mamma car or aare minor Shakespearean surprisingly expensive taste in coffee cherries.

In fact, civets are small, nocturnal, cat-like mammals withinteres=ng surprisingly expensive taste in Now comes the part. coffee cherries.

The civets eat the ripe coffee cherries, par=ally diges Now comes the interesting part. and eventually… well… return the beans to the w The civets eat means. the ripeYes, coffee partially en=rely natural thecherries, world’s most expensiv digest them, and eventually… well… return the begins life as something most gardeners would quietly bury at the boQom of the c beans to the world by entirely natural means. Yes, the world’s most expensive heap. coffee begins life as something most gardeners would quietly bury at the bottom

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of thebeans compost The are heap. then collected, cleaned very thoroughly (I sincerely hope), roasted, a

at eye-watering prices to adventurous coffee drinkers(I around the globe.

The beans are then collected, cleaned very thoroughly sincerely hope), roasted, and sold at eye-watering prices to adventurous coffee drinkers around the Apparently, during their journey through the civet’s diges=ve system, globe. the beans un Apparently, during theirprocess journey which through the civet’s digestive system, theabeans natural fermenta=on reduces biQerness and creates smoother, undergo a natural fermentation process which reduces bitterness and creates a flavour. smoother, sweeter flavour.

At this stage there was only one thing to do. I ground the beans, boiled the keQ

At this stage there was only one thing to do. I ground the beans, boiled the kettle, approached the experience with equal parts curiosity and mild alarm. and approached the experience with equal parts curiosity and mild alarm.

Anddodoyouyou know what? was actually very good coffee.

Smooth, rich, And know what?

It wasItactually very good coffee.

Smooth, rich, aromatic — arom genuinelyexcellent. excellent. genuinely

Mindyou, you,I can’t I can’thelp help feeling that I been it came a remote volcanic Mind feeling that hadhad I been toldtold it came from from a remote volcanic hillside by smiling monks, passing through digestivetract tractof a n tended tended by smiling monks, ratherrather thanthan passing through thethe diges=ve of a nocturnal mammal, I might have enjoyed mammal, I might have enjoyed it even more.it even more.

Caring - 27 -

Chris

Chris

The War Widows’ Quilt Finds a Permanent Home Following our AGM in Bradford, Kerry made a special detour on her journey home via York to deliver the War Widows’ Quilt to its new home at the Quilters’ Guild of the British Isles, housed in St Anthony’s Hall.

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I joined her there as she formally completed the handover, signing the quilt into the care of the Guild. Alongside it, we presented a copy of the book created for the War Widows Stories Project, which explains the significance of this deeply personal, bedsized quilt and the stories of loss and remembrance it represents.

The quilt was carefully laid out and examined by both the curator and the Guild’s conservator. We were able to reassure them that the pockets—each containing precious personal mementoes—have been securely sewn closed. They spoke warmly of the quality of the workmanship, the thoughtful choice of materials, and the symbolic patterns throughout. The quilt is also fully prepared for display, with hanging loops already in place.

We were then shown the Guild’s climate-controlled storage area, where each quilt is carefully preserved in its own protective box. The collection includes pieces dating back to the 1600s, placing our quilt within a long and distinguished textile heritage.

Although the collection is not on permanent public display, selected quilts are exhibited at events across the country, as well as during the Guild’s annual September exhibition in the medieval hall. It is hoped that the War Widows’ Quilt will be featured at the Festival of Quilts, held at the National Exhibition Centre from 30 July to 2 August 2026.

It is reassuring to know that the quilt is now in safe and expert hands. Members who wish to view it may do so by contacting the Guild’s curator to arrange an appointment.

The Guild is staffed on Tuesdays, and at least three to four weeks’ notice is requested.

Email: admin@quiltersguild.org.uk | Tel: 01904 613242 St Anthony’s Hall itself provides a fitting and historic setting. Built in the mid-15th century as the meeting place for religious guilds, it later served as the Blue Coat School from 1705 until 1946. In 1952 it became home to the Borthwick Institute for Archives, now located at the University of York. Following its restoration by the York Conservation Trust, the Hall now houses the Quilters’ Guild collection.

Situated within York’s historic city walls, on Peasholme Green, St Anthony’s Hall stands opposite the The Black Swan and close to Aldwark, the Merchant Taylors’ Hall, and onward to Monk Bar, Goodramgate, the Shambles and York Minster—a setting rich in history, and a meaningful place for the quilt’s preservation.

The War Widows’ Quilt has not only found a home, but a place of honour—where its stories will be safeguarded and shared for generations to come.

Catherine Hanson

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“A Handbag!” - The weight of age If you can remember ‘That’s Life’, the first of the TV consumer programmes, maybe you saw a very young Esther Rantzen, armed with a tray and a microphone, cameraman in tow, hit the streets of London. Drawing quite a crowd, she challenged ladies about the damage they were inflicting to their shoulders and backs, by the weight of their handbags. She persuaded some to empty the contents onto her tray, causing great embarrassment and amusement as the articles were listed and piled up. (I think you are ahead of me here.) Ours had been a quiet night, toddler asleep upstairs and dog on the rug, dreaming of rabbits and letting out the odd woof. We were relaxing after supper. Dick goes out to the kitchen and returned, not with a couple of mugs of coffee but with one large tray and my handbag. I ashamedly emptied the contents onto the tray. What an an eye-opener! Before me lay an assortment of nappy pins, tissues, spare bib, sweets, cheque book, no credit cards yet, purse and wallet, make up and loads more, just the usual stuff any mum carried around! After the ‘cull’ it was a lot lighter and to this day I have tried to have regular clear-outs, and as I age, to reduce the sheer weight. So what has brought this on?

A few weeks ago, after almost a year of waiting for action from our NHS, I was finally issued with my latest ‘gadget’, a hearing aid, just the one. It’s only the Left ear is a bit ‘mutton Jeff’, the right still functions just fine. Fitting, App on the phone to control it and instructions complete, I signed to agree to paying £80 in the event I should loose it and was handed the case and instructed to keep it and a spare battery with me at all times. Aghast, I squeezed it into my small handbag, next to the Kindle as I’d thought I would have had a long wait, then struggled with the zip. My phone went into my pocket as I would need it to pay to leave the hospital carpark. I can’t thank the Audiology department enough for their care, efficiency and speed once I was in the system but my handbag was ‘rammed’.

The next morning I emptied the contents of my trusty bag onto the bed. Surely something could stay at home. That’s the thing about getting older, bits fail and need help to maintain an even keel.

First it was the eyes. They need eye drops, 2 pairs of glasses in their cases, the reading ones and the ones to counteract headlight glare.

I’m supposed to carry a container for the dental implant should it ever come unstuck. I’ll trust to luck - 30 -

on that one. There is the hairbrush/comb, a mini one from a holiday flight, a biro, the nail file, a lipstick, ( well a girl’s got to have a bit of lippy, no matter how old). I haven’t mentioned the 2 key rings, one for the house, and one for the car, nor the bus pass and the rail and Oyster cards, and I’ve still got a wallet for cash as some places have no signal or only take cash, or their machine is down. The gloves will have to go in my pockets. Now there’s this hearing aid case but the hearing attachment is only showerproof and the instruction booklet clearly states that in a downpour I must wear a hood and/or use an umbrella. My phone controls everything, even my electronic ear.

I’m not complaining, but I do need a bigger bag!

Catherine Hanson

Future events SGM and Arboretum tour, (Litchfield) 8th and 9th July Festival of Quilts at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham 30th July to 2nd August Founders Day 11th September in the Guard’s Chapel London Battle of Britain Service 20th September Opening of the field of Remembrance 5th November WWA Saturday Service at the Cenotaph 7th November RBL Sunday Muster 8th November Time to reflect 22nd May 2027

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plus-fours, brogues, flat cap Holmes wobbling past on a

The Tweed Run

A very kind gentleman, clea Run. “Of course it is,” I rep On Saturday 18th April I found myself in London ahead of a service at St Clement Danes the following morning. Faced with an entirely afternoon capital, nofreeidea whatinisthe going on. there was really only one sensible course of action available to a woman alone in London: Shopping!

Naturally, once back at my

So there I was, happily progressing along Oxford Street with the sort of determined annual cycling event in whi expression usually seen on explorers and bargain hunters, when all traffic suddenly taking in famous landmarks ground to a halt.

At first I assumed a celebrity had appeared, or perhaps someone had announced a half-price sale in Selfridges. Instead, hundreds of bicycles came streaming past. Not racing bicycles ridden by people dressed in fluorescent Lycra, oh no.

These were splendid machines with baskets, leather saddles and enough polished chrome to blind the unwary pedestrian. Their riders looked as though they had pedalled straight out of a 1920s photograph: tweed jackets, plus-fours, brogues, flat caps and the occasional deer stalker. I half expected to see Sherlock Holmes wobbling past on a penny-farthing.

A very kind gentleman, clearly noticing my bewilderment, explained that this was the Tweed Run. “Of course it is,” I replied, in the confident tone people use when they Tradition dictates that riders have absolutely no idea what is going on.

extraordinary. Every partic

Naturally, once back at my hotel, I consulted Mr Google. It turns out the Tweed Run is an annual cycling event in which participants ride approximately twelve miles The Agatha Christie novel. around London, taking in famous landmarks such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace countries, yet seemed to glid and Westminster Bridge.

Tradition dictates that riders wear vintage or vintage-style attire, and the effort people Run Apparently the Tweed make is extraordinary. Every participant appeared to have stepped directly from the those in need, although now pages of an Agatha Christie novel. The bicycles themselves looked older than some prizes dignity. for the best dres small European countries, yet seemed to glide along are with effortless - 32 -

London, aroundnes miles y twelve imatelwere oh approx no. These pants, ride particiLycra splend whichscent id machi eventininfluore gssed with .

Bridge inster Westm and les and Palace enoug ngham h polish Bucki Ben, ed Big chrom as e such to blind the unwary pedestrian. Their us landmarks

gh they had pedalled straight out of a 1920s photograph: tweed jackets, lat caps and the occasional deer stalker. I half expected to see Sherlock t on a penny-farthing.

n, clearly noticing my bewilderment, explained that this was the Tweed ,” I replied, in the confident tone people use when they have absolutely on.

at my hotel, I consulted Mr Google. It turns out the Tweed Run is an in which participants ride approximately twelve miles around London, marks such as Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and Westminster Bridge.

make is ates that riders wear vintage or vintage-style attire, and the effort people of an . Every participant appeared to have stepped directly from the pages ean stie novel. The bicycles themselves looked older than some small Europ seemed to glide along with effortless dignity. es for he Tweed Run originally had charitable aims, helping to provide bicycl on. There d, although nowadays it is more of a gloriously eccentric social occasi must r the best dressed participants, though from what I witnessed the judges

Apparently the Tweed Run originally had charitable aims, helping to provide bicycles

riders for wear vintag e or although vintage-styl e attire, those in need, nowadays it isand more a gloriously social theofeffort peopleccentric e make is occasion.

There the best dressed participants, though from what participant appea redaretoprizes haveforsteppe d directly from the pages of an I witnessed the judges must have a dreadful time deciding. I couldn’t choose between . The bicycles themselves looked older than some small European the gentleman with the waxed moustache and the lady balancing elegantly sideo glidesaddle along with effortenough less dignit while wearing tweedy.to reupholster a small sofa. in London could stopping traffic with hundreds of people dressed like retired Run Only origin ally had charit abletheaims, helping to provid bicycl es for aristocrats on vintage bicycles be considered perfectly normal. eAnd honestly, it made h nowad ays it is more of a glorio usly eccen tric social occasion. There my shopping trip far more entertaining. dresse d participants, though from what I witnessed the judges must Chris - 33 -

countries move from conflict towards peace.

t dangerous and fragile regions, hel

Known affec1 onate ly as Day of United Na'ons Peacekeepers International Day ofInterna'onal United Nations Peacekeepers

“Blue Berets” because of t Every year in May, the United Na1ons holds dis1nc a Service Commemora1o 1veoflight blue Every year in May, the United Nations holds a Service of Commemoration at the headg they serve Whitehall to honour the sacrifice and service of UN Peacekeepers fro not as employee Cenotaph in Whitehall to honour the sacrifice and service of UN Peacekeepers the Unitedforce Na1on These men and women form a unique of military, s, but from across the world.

These men and women form a mul1na1onal unique multinational force repre of military, police, and civilian personnel who work in some of the world’s most senta 1ves volun personnel who work in some of the world’s most dangerous and frag ta dangerous and fragile regions, helping countries move from conflict towards contrib uted by peace.

Member Sta countries move from conflict towards peace. worldwide.

Known affe

As Chairman, I “Blue am invited Beretse year to lay a wreath on behal dis1nc1ve li the War Widows Associa1on. This year, however, I felt it especially import ant to they serve n accompanied by JeannePe, our Governance Trustee. JeannePe’s husban d the was serving Unitedw the United Na1ons in Cambodia when he sadly died, making her presen ce representa at the cerem par1cularly poignant and deeply meaningful. contributed We arrived in Whitehall on a gloriou s warm a worldwide. sunny day to collect our wreaths before the serv Chairman, There we were met by GeorgeAs , a pupil fr to lay a Westminster City School, who had year been assigned the War Widows Associa1on.

I felt it especial our escortThis and year, proudlhowever, y carried our wreaths for us.

Known affectionately “Blue our Governance Trustee. JeannePe’s husba accompaniedasbythe JeannePe, Berets” because of their distinctive the United Na1ons in Cambodia when he sadly died, making her presen light blue headgear, they serve not par1cularly poignant and deeply meaningful. as employees of the United Nations, but as representatives voluntarily contributed by Member States worldwide.

As Chairman, I am invited each year to lay a wreath on behalf of the War Widows Association. This year, however, I felt it especially important to be accompanied by Jeannette, our Governance Trustee. Jeannette’s husband was serving with the United Nations in Cambodia when he sadly died, making her presence at the ceremony particularly poignant and deeply meaningful.

We arrived in Whitehall on a sunny day to collect our wreaths There we were met by Geo Westminster City School, who ha our escort and proudly carried ou

Unlike many other commemora1ve events, - 34 organisa1ons par1cipa1ng in this service lay the same wreath - a simple but striking circul

par1cularly poignant and deeply meaningful.

We arrived in Whitehall on a sunny day to collect our wreath There we were met by Ge Westminster City School, who h our escort and proudly carried o

Unlike many other commem organisa1ons par1cipa1ng in this service lay the same wreath - a simpl

We arrived in Whitehall on a glorious warm and sunny day to collect our wreaths before the service. There we were met by George, a pupil from Westminster City School, who had been assigned as our escort and proudly carried our wreaths for us.

Unlike many other commemorative events, all organisations participating in this service lay the same wreath - a simple but striking circular design featuring a double ring of poppies surrounding the United Nations’ emblem. We were honoured to lay two wreaths, one each, in remembrance of those who gave their lives in the cause of peace.

The service itself was, as always, dignified, understated, and deeply moving.

Standing together at the Cenotaph, surrounded by representatives from many nations and organisations, served as a powerful reminder that the cost of conflict is shared across the world, as is the enduring hope for peace.

Chris

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Standing with Giants ‘For your Tomorrow’, at Waddesdon Manor, Autumn 2026 I volunteer at Waddesdon Manor, near Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire and this autumn we have a very exciting installation coming to the grounds of the Manor.

This will be the second time, the first being in 2022, but this year’s display will be in a different location.

The ‘For Your Tomorrow’ installation commemorates the 1,476 lives lost on 6 June 1944 under British command on D-Day. ‘Standing with Giants’ is a registered charity that creates large-scale outdoor remembrance art installations, individually hand made from upcycled materials. It was founded by Dan Barton, who began the project in 2019 after creating several powerful displays to honour those who served.The art creates spaces for reflection and remembrance, to discuss, to grieve, bringing individuals together to remember those who fought for freedom, both past and present. He refers to it as ‘Giants’ because of the enormity of the sacrifice made by the individuals they represent — a sacrifice that allows others to live in freedom.

On the afternoon of 10th April 2026, four artic lorries accompanied by ‘ride to the wall’ Harley-Davidsons and other motorbikes, departed from Waddesdon Manor. This ‘Bon Voyage’ event was the start of a journey to Normandy for the summer installation at the British Normandy Memorial.

Following the third consecutive year displaying at the British Normandy Memorial, the installation will come back to the UK, to Waddesdon from 21st October until 29th November, and will be free to view with a grounds entry ticket.

Further information can be found on the Waddesdon Manor website - waddesdon. org.uk. Search ‘what’s on’ for ‘Standing with Giants’. Clicking ‘book now’ will list the memberships that qualify for free entry, such as National Trust, Historic Houses or RHS. The Manor itself is well worth a visit, but will require an additional timed ticket.

- 36 -

Hayley Cochrane - 37 -

HMS BELFAST HMS BELFAST

the River Thames between Londonbetween Bridge London and Tower Bridge the World II Moored on the River Thames Bridge and is Tower Bridge War is the World War II Royal Navy warship HMS Belfast, a Town-Class light cruiser with a warship HMS Belfast, a Town-Class lightHMS cruiser with a remarkable history.

BELFAST remarkable history.

n 1938, HMS Belfast played a betwee significant role in and theTower BaKle of isNorth Cape WarinII the World Bridge Bridge n London Thames RiverHMS Moored oninthe Launched 1938, Belfast played a significant role in the Battle of North Cape history. ble remarka a d wasinRoyal one of the first ships to open fire on German defences during the with cruiser lass light Town-C Navy warship Norway, and wasHMS oneBelfast, of theafirst ships to open fire on German defences during Cape North andings inNormandy France.

SheHMS later wentplayed on toalater serve during Korean War between BaKle of in the the landings in France.

She went to the serve during the Korean Warin role nton significa Belfast d in 1938, Launche during s defence German on between 1950 and 1952.

Today, HMS Belfast is Europe’s largest preserved warship fire open ships topreserved 952. Today, HMS Europe’s warship and operates asthe a the first largest was oneis of , andBelfast Norway n War betwee the Korean during and operates as a fascinating floating museum, welcoming around 900 visitors every serve to on went later She France. in landings dy Norman floaTng museum, welcoming around 900 visitors every day of the year. operates as a

day of and the year.

1952. Today, HMS Belfast is Europe’s largest preserved warship and 1950 900 visitors every day of the year. ing around , welcom floaTng fascinaT The shipngis also museum used as a venue for also used as a venue for conferences conferences and hospitality events. and On confere for and 24th May, our Trustee I nces and a venue used events.

On is24th May,as our Governance alsoGovernance The ship Governance ourthe May, attended a trustee training day aboard aboard On 24th events. hospita I aKended a lity trustee training day the dayItaboard the training ship hosted a London solicitors’ firm. d a trustee I aKende and by Trustee by a London solicitors’ firm.

It proved to proved to be firm. It be s’ engaging proved to bebyana informative and London solicitor ship hosted Tve and engaging event, with many valuable many valuable event, with Tve many gained event, with engaginginsights andvaluable an informa throughout theday. day. ned throughout the throughout the day. insights gained were able to me,wewe program breakin inthethe abreak During programme, were During reak in the aprogramme, we were able to a small gain and the ship parts ofparts able to explore of the ship and gain aglimpse into explore ts of the ship and gain abeen small glimpse into the sailors forhave have small what lifelike must been who once life mustinto whatglimpse ust have forwho theonce sailors who once served there. like been for thelike sailors served there.

served there.

The cramped

condiTons were striking — narrow stairways,

The cramped compact sleeping quarters with Tny bunk beds, In out. condiTons and were striking narrow stairways, through d living—spaces confine offered board on chapel small the , contrast quarters with Tny bunk beds, a compact sleeping rather beauTful place for quiet l and spaces peacefu and confined living throughout.

In n. reflecTocramped conditions were striking contrast, theThe small chapel on board offered a — narrow stairways, compact sleeping peaceful andquarters rather with beauTful place for quiet tiny bunk beds, and reflecTon. confined living spaces throughout. In contrast, the small chapel on board offered a peaceful and rather beautiful place for quiet reflection.

- 38 -

explore parts of the ship and gain a small glimpse into what life must have been like for the sailors who once

served there. g through the ship gave us a real appreciaT Walkin ce and endurance of those who ser the resilien Theofcrampe d at sea condiT onsduring were warTm strikinge. — narrow stairways, compact sleeping quarters with Tny bunk beds, and confined living spaces throughout.

In contrast, the small chapel on board offered a peaceful and rather beauTful place for quiet reflecTon.

If you are ever visiTng London and looking for end a visit to H something both educaTonal and memorable to do, I would highly recomm iaTon apprec real a us gave ship the h Walkin.g throug Belfast of the resilience and endurance of those who served Chr at sea during warTme.

If you are ever visiTng London and looking for

Walking through the ship gave us a real appreciation of the resilience and endurance able to do, I would highly recommend a visit to HMS d memor of those who served at sea during wartime.

If you are ever visiting London and looking for something both educational and Chris memorable to do, I would highly recommend a visit to HMS Belfast.

Chris - 39 -

Naples and Pizza: A Slice of History Pizza as we know it today began in Naples, where 18th-century working people turned simple flatbread into something more exciting by adding tomatoes newly arrived from the Americas. Once feared as poisonous, tomatoes quickly became a staple, giving rise to early classics like the marinara—made without cheese and often prepared for sailors.

In 1889, a skilled pizza maker, Raffaele Esposito, is said to have created the now-famous Margherita for Queen Margherita of Savoy, topping it with tomato, mozzarella, and basil to reflect the Italian flag. Whether legend or fact, the combination became iconic.

Today, authentic Neapolitan pizza is protected by the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana, which enforces strict rules on ingredients and technique. From finely milled flour to San Marzano tomatoes, every element matters—especially the baking.

True Neapolitan pizza cooks in a wood-fired oven at blistering heat for just 90 seconds, creating its signature soft, airy crust with charred bubbles.

While variations now exist worldwide, purists insist nothing quite matches a pizza made in its birthplace. Still, wherever it’s served, this humble dish remains a testament to simple ingredients, tradition, and a little culinary ingenuity.

- 40 -

Rosalind Dillon-Lee Our mother, Rosalind Dillon-Lee, sadly passed away in February. She was a longstanding and dedicated member of the War Widows Association, serving in a variety of roles over many years.

Following the death of her husband, Rosalind found great support through the Association. She often spoke of attending one of the Association’s early meetings, where she met other recently bereaved widows and realised that many had not received the same care and support that she had. That experience inspired her lifelong commitment to improving the support available to others.

In 2007, she designed the Association’s first website, despite often joking that technology was far outside her comfort zone. She later became the Dorset Regional Organiser, a role she greatly enjoyed, bringing members together through events and fostering a strong sense of community.

Rosalind was a passionate advocate for the rights and welfare of widows and remained committed to that cause throughout her life. She particularly cherished the annual Remembrance events in London. One of my fondest memories is meeting her for coffee on the day before Remembrance Sunday and then unexpectedly joining her and fellow War Widows as they marched through Whitehall. We feel privileged to have witnessed her dedication and are grateful for the legacy she leaves behind.

Mark Dillon-Lee

- 41 -

In Memory...

Mrs Reba Marion Caroline Bakewell

Mrs Jean Turner

Mrs Eileen Vera Baynham

Mrs Wendy Woollard

Mrs Jen Bekker

Mrs Rosalind Dillon-Lee

Mrs Marjorie Bourne

Mrs Joan Scott

Mrs Valerie Bright

Mrs Downham

Mrs Ann Challen

Mr Stewart Smith

Mrs Dorothy Clampit

Mrs Irene Bray

Mrs Irene Colbourne

Mrs Esme Joyce

Mrs Valerie Collis

Mrs Mavis Newnham

Mrs Betty Golding

Mrs Lesley Mary Whitford

Mrs Vera Goodale

Mrs Marie Elizabeth Spooner

Mrs Mavis Hoult

Mrs Christine Mary Hogg

Mrs Wendy Jones

Mrs Norma Barritt

Mrs Barbara Whittaker

Mrs Ada Menet Mrs Ginny Mitchell Mrs Eileen Mohide Mrs Jen Oakley Mrs Joyce Parkinson Mrs Olive Rea Mrs Lesley Sephton Mrs Irene Skinner Mrs Frances Staines Mrs Alwyn Stiff Mrs Erica Thompson Mrs June Tufnell

- 42 -

The 22nd of May marked fifteen years since Operation Telic came British personnel departed Iraq. To honour all those who served in individuals who supported the operation at home and overseas, a m From Basra to Staffordshire: commemorative service was held at the National Memorial Arbor

The Story of ofaattendance Memorial The scale reflected the importance of the occasion. I

number present, but it was impossible; there were, it seems, thous

The 22nd of May marked fifteen years since Operation Telic came to an end and the together on a beautiful spring veterans, religious leaders, last British personnel departed Iraq. To honour all day thosewith who served in Iraq, alongside families, and supporters of our standing to the many individuals whodignitaries, supported the operation at home and military, overseas, all a moving open-air commemorative service was held at the National Memorial Arboretum.

Representing the government was Defence Secretary John Healey

The scale of attendance reflected the importance of the occasion. I attempted to estimate Operation Telic came at a profound cost. During the campaign, 17 the number present, but it was impossible; there were, it seems, thousands of people support lost day their lives, whilereligious many more returned gathered together on a personnel beautiful spring with veterans, leaders, serving home psychological that remain with them to this day. personnel, families, dignitaries,wounds and supporters of our military, all standing together in quiet reflection. Representing the government was Defence Secretary John Healey.

The service itself was deeply emotional. Stories were shared by th

Operation Telic came at a profound cost. During the campaign, 179 British Armed and by loved ones who had endured the long months of waiting an Forces and support personnel lost their lives, while many more returned home Particularly poignant werethat theremain readings “blueys” carrying physical and psychological wounds withfrom them to this day.- the famili

between families and servicemen - in words that captured message

The service itself was deeply emotional. Stories were shared by those who had and who the enduring bonds of home. served in Iraqreassurance, and by loved ones had endured the long months of waiting and uncertainty at home. Particularly poignant were the readings from “blueys” - the At the heart of th familiar blue aerogrammes sent between families and servicemen - in words that Basra Memo captured messages of love, fears, reassurance, and the enduring bonds the of home.

remarkable symb continuity. Origi Engineers in 200 headquarters in B using local Iraqi comrades lost du

As British forces Iraq in 2009, mil difficult decision behind, where it destroyed, or bri British engineers structure, transpo plaque back to th rebuilt it with gre - 43 -

Today, the Basra Memorial stands prominently within the grounds

At the heart of the commemorations stands the Basra Memorial Wall, itself a remarkable symbol of remembrance and continuity. Originally constructed by Royal Engineers in 2006 at the British military headquarters in Basra, the Wall was built using local Iraqi bricks to commemorate comrades lost during Operation Telic.

As British forces prepared to withdraw from Iraq in 2009, military leaders faced a difficult decision: leave the Memorial Wall behind, where it might ultimately be destroyed, or bring it home. In the end, British engineers carefully dismantled the structure, transported each brick and brass plaque back to the United Kingdom, and rebuilt it with great respect and dignity.

Today, the Basra Memorial stands prominently within the grounds of the National Memorial Arboretum. Hidden within its structure are the original Iraqi bricks, while the exterior has been faced with polished red-brown granite, designed to withstand the British climate. The wall bears 179 brass plaques, each engraved with the regimental crest, rank, name, age and date of death of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Basra Memorial Wall provides a direct and tangible link between the battlefields of Iraq and the peaceful landscape of the British countryside. More importantly, it offers families, veterans and the wider public a permanent place of Remembrance — somewhere to reflect, to grieve and to honour those who never returned home.

Chris

ROL Report & R O Reports REGIONAL ORGANISER LIAISON RAMBLINGS Contact details - Email: rol@warwidows.org.uk I have some good news to impart; following another plea at the AGM we have recruited 2 new ROs! By the time you read this all the i’s should have been dotted and t’s crossed and I will have been able to introduce the West Yorkshire and London areas to their new ROs. Thank you to Linda and Paul, and Rachel for putting their heads above the parapet. Thanks also need to go to Jeffrey Long who stepped in and organised several lunches in Bradford over the last couple of years, but has had to ‘retire’ due to health issues. I hope you get to attend one soon that you haven’t had to organise Jeffrey. If anyone else would like to offer to take on the role, or feel you could organise a lunch in your area for members of the Association please contact me. I can help you contact members and show you how to claim the subsidy for each member that attends.

- 44 -

Unfortunately, I also have some sad news. After a short illness, Ros Dillon-Lee the RO for Dorset and overseas passed away in February. Ros was a stalwart of the Association, having been an RO for many years and a trustee, filling several positions during her time on the committee. She will be missed greatly by so many of us.

Sadly, I didn’t get any response to my plea in the last issue for possible wreath layers. The list is still open, so if anybody would be willing to be contacted if I need a volunteer, do contact me via rol@warwidows.org.uk.

My plea this time is to all the ROs. Please activate, read and use your dedicated RO email addresses! All WWA business should be done through them, this makes compliance with GDPR and my life so much easier, and ensures that you don’t miss important information. I continue to monitor vacant RO position emails but if you are unsure who to contact, email me directly at rol@warwidows.org.uk.

Finally, if you have one of the medal style WWA brooches guard it well. I stupidly left mine on my coat in the cloakroom at 61 Whitehall during the Remembrance lunch and it was stolen. I feel sad that someone had so little respect for a War Widow and felt it was their right to take personal property.

Best wishes Liz Carter These three lovely ladies from Shrewsbury, Deanna Selby, Anne Bayles, and Bernice Firmin, enjoyed a lunch in March, and finished the day with a stroll along the river.

- 45 -

R O Reports CORNWALL___________________________________ Area 4

Contact details - Susan Williams 0845 2412189 Email: rocornwall@warwidows.org.uk Hello Friends,

I hope everyone is keeping well and enjoying some decent weather after what seemed like a very fierce winter, here in Cornwall we suffered with extreme storms uprooting trees that blocked roads and caused no end of damage to properties. These huge trees are still roadside for all to see.

By the time you read this we may well have enjoyed a get together in Truro. Dare I mention that our next lunch will be our Christmas one and any suggestions for venues are always welcome, so please feel free to let me know of anywhere you think suitable. I shall be in-touch with details nearer the time. Wishing you lovely summer months to enjoy.

Take care.

Susan §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

DUNDEE AND CENTRAL SCOTLAND_______________ Area 59 Contact details - Sue Raw 07500 060518

Email: Scotland rodundeecentralscotland@warwidows.org.uk Sadly, the most important news I have to share isn’t good. Since my last report, we have lost 2 much-valued and very supportive members.

Stewart Smith died in Ninewells Hospital, Dundee. Stewart had a wide and varied career as a Household Cavalry member, Metropolitan Mounted Police Officer and Dundee Sheriff Court Officer.

Marjorie Bourne, was a dedicate and much-loved teacher in Kinloch Rannoch, as well as having many and varied interests outside teaching. I was privileged to represent Region 59 and the WWA at their funerals. They are both much missed at our coffee gatherings and twice-yearly lunches.

Our coffee mornings are on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at DCA in Dundee and our Summer lunch will take place at the Beefeater, Discovery Quay, Dundee on Tuesday 9th June at 12:00 noon. All are welcome to our meetings but numbers asap would be appreciated for the lunch booking.

Sue §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

- 46 -

NORTH WILTSHIRE____________________________ Area 53

Contact details - Liz Carter 01249 890219

Email: ronorthwiltshire@warwidows.org.uk Apologies for the lack of a report in the last edition, I did submit one-honest! In it I had mentioned that the local ladies had enjoyed afternoon tea at Dobbies Garden Centre near Cirencester last summer and had asked for me to investigate a venue for another one near Christmas. Well, we ended up back there! I couldn’t find anywhere else that provided such a good Christmas tea at such a good price, 11 of us had a very enjoyable afternoon and I think we all left with a doggy bag.

2 of us made the trip to Bradford for the AGM weekend, it was many years since I’d been there and I’d forgotten how much history there was to see just a short walk from the hotel. A good time seemed to be had by everyone, though I don’t think I’ll go professional on the back of my acting efforts during the murder mystery on the Friday evening!

The bi-monthly coffee mornings continue with variable numbers attending, but we always find plenty to chat about and catch up on. The regular group includes ladies from Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire so if anybody else from a neighbouring region would like to join us, do contact me and I can give you details and directions.

Enjoy the summer and I hope to meet more members at some of the local or national events.

Liz Carter

Diary Dates Coffee mornings; 8th July, 9th Sept, 11th Nov (tbc) 10-12 noon.

Crown’s café REME Museum SN15 4XX Contact Liz Carter on 07811759725 ronothwiltshire@warwidows.org.uk

- 47 -

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years,” Abraham Lincoln

Contact details for

The War Widows Association of Great Britain Telephone: 0845 241 2189

ADDRESS: c/o 199 Borough High Street, London SE1 1AA Website: www.warwidows.org.uk EMAIL: info@warwidows.org.uk

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