Issue 114 Summer 2024

Issue 114

Summer 2024

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: Eileen Kelly McGregor: governance@warwidows.org.uk REGIONAL ORGANISER LIASON TRUSTEE: Liz Carter: rol@warwidows.org.uk REMEMBRANCE TRUSTEE: Chris Dziuba: remembrance@warwidows.org.uk EVENTS TRUSTEE: Sandy Dawson: events@warwidows.org.uk POLICIES TRUSTEE: Terry Whittles: policies@warwidows.org.uk CONTRACTS & DISPUTES TRUSTEE: David Whimpenny: contracts@warwidows.org.uk PROJECTS TRUSTEE: Jeannette Strachan: projects@warwidows.org.uk COURAGE TRUSTEE: Kate Thomas: 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 Reports................................................................................................................................. 4 Thank You John Miles.............................................................................................. 11 Annual General Meeting........................................................................................ 12 Strictly came to Stratford-upon-Avon........................................................... 15 News of Member - Freda Gadd......................................................................... 17 News of Member - Isabella MacArthur Bell............................................ 18 In Memory...................................................................................................................... 20 War Widows Book Club from Reading Force........................................... 22 Notice board................................................................................................................... 23 War Widows Connected.......................................................................................... 27 A Time to Reflect......................................................................................................... 28 Dates for the diary..................................................................................................... 30 Anzac Day........................................................................................................................ 31 RO Reports..................................................................................................................... 36 Royal Hospital Chelsea Founders’ Day........................................................ 43 Are YOU ready to become a Trustee.............................................................. 46 The last word................................................................................................................. 47 -3-

Reports Presidents Ponderings I always look forward eagerly to our AGM weekend as it provides a welcome opportunity to meet old friends and make some new ones in a really convivial atmosphere. This year was no exception as we gathered in a charming hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon. As always, I thought of those members who, for a variety of reasons, would be unable to attend the AGM in person even though some were able to join remotely courtesy of the wonders of modern technology. What was different this year was the depth of feeling engendered by the problems with the roll out of the ex gratia payment, more formally known as the Recognition Payment Scheme.

Let me go back a little to set the scene. The Vice Presidents and I were shocked and angered by the new obstacle put in the way of some widows who thought they were eligible for the Recognition Payment. This was always a second best for us but eight years of campaigning for the restitution of the war widows’ pension had been singularly unsuccessful and in my view always would be, so as President and Vice Presidents we thought the Association should accept the offer of a one-off payment.

We understood of course that for many in the Association it would be a bitter pill to swallow and the Trustees would no doubt be blamed whatever decision they took.

Even when the principle of the one-off payment had been settled it still took a long time to iron out the problems that arose with its instalment. We thought we were - at last - home and dry but not a bit of it. It became clear that widows who received an attributable pension from their husband’s service, often a very modest one, would be ineligible. Baroness Crawley was successful in getting the chance to ask an oral question in the House of Lords about the general issues. We all piled in behind her and the unfortunate Defence Spokesman standing in for the Minister got a very rough ride indeed. Lady Crawley then challenged him to hear the widows’ views at our AGM at that point about a fortnight away. To do him justice Lord Harlech – Jasset - agreed without hesitation.

Soon after that the Minister covering defence, the Earl of Minto, suggested a meeting with Lady Crawley and me. It was planned for a day that Lady Crawley was away for a hospital appointment and we all know it is unwise to try and change it. I was, I hope, able to discuss all the issues with the Minister and again he was in listening mode as a newly appointed minister.

Jasset Harlech arrived on the Saturday morning in a well-tailored suit complete with a Guards tie as he is a keen and active Reservist. Lord Harlech said very honestly that he was not in a position to make any commitments but would listen and he heard a number of truly moving stories from widows. I know that they really touched him – as they did me. Over the years I had heard from widows talking to me privately one to one but to hear them explain in public their histories and feelings made it the most emotional AGM I have ever attended. I also admired the restraint and dignity they -4-

showed even though they must have felt both angry, hurt and let down.

I came away from the AGM more determined than ever to fight to ensure all widows who lost their war widows’ pension on remarriage or cohabitation receive the Recognition Payment. I want to make it crystal clear that I do not believe for a moment the claim by another Defence Minister, Dr Murrison, that the Trustees discussing the terms of the payment knew that those with an attributable pension would be excluded. What is more it was NEVER mentioned to me as a member of the House of Lords that this would be the case. I think it was telling that the MOD officials refused to allow the Trustees to see the claim form in advance of it being made public. They also refused the offer of Chris Dziuba, now Chairman of our Association to help with drawing up an application form as sensitively as possible, given that it did require some very personal and painful details. She herself had her war widow’s pension withdrawn so she really knows what it feels like.

To add insult to injury it flies in the face of the Armed Services Military Covenant which recognises the unique place servicemen and their families occupy and is committed to ensure that their needs are met. So, the fight is not over, not by a long way!

Janet

Chaplain’s Address At the time of writing, we’re just approaching the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings; a time for solemn remembrance and heartfelt gratitude. To help me gain a sense of the challenge faced by the Allies that day, I turned once again, to watch the opening scenes of Saving Private Ryan; it’s such a powerful film. This pivotal moment in history saw immense bravery and sacrifice that changed the course of the Second World War. While the number of War Widows’ Association members who lost husbands in that conflict has now diminished, the legacy of those who did, continues to resonate deeply within our hearts. D-Day was marked by extraordinary courage, as our armed forces faced overwhelming odds to secure a future of peace and freedom. Their valour and dedication are a timeless testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As we remember these men and women, we are reminded of the enduring values of duty, honour, and love for one’s country.

For the widows of those who served in subsequent conflicts, this anniversary is a poignant reminder of the cost of war and the enduring impact on families left behind.

The War Widows Association, along with the Single Service Associations, exemplify resilience and solidarity, carrying forward the memory of our loved ones with grace and dignity. You find strength in each other, sharing your stories and supporting one another through the journey of loss.

In the spirit of remembrance for D-Day 80, let us reflect on the words of John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” For Christians, this scripture captures the profound sacrifice made by those who fought on the beaches in June 1944 and serves as a guiding light, as we navigate our own -5-

paths of grief and remembrance. May we continue to honour the memory of the fallen and reaffirm our commitment to supporting one another. Together, we ensure that the legacy of our loved ones is never forgotten, and their sacrifices continue to inspire future generations.

When this edition of Courage lands on your doormats I will have been In faith and remembrance, Chairman for just over three months. It’s been both a busy and enjoy Padre Ian time. I have been out and about and honestly think I have spent mor away than I have at home.

Chair’s Corner

When this edition of Courage lands your doormats have been It is with anon enormous amount Iofwill pride that I amChairman pleased tofor say His M just over three months. It’s been both a busy and enjoyable time.

I have been out and King Charles III has confirmed he will retain his Patronage of the War about and honestly think Association I have spentofmore awayThis than I haveis at Greattime Britain. indeed anhome. honour and I am sure y join me in thanking His Majesty for his continued support.King It is with an enormous amount of pride that I am pleased to say His Majesty Charles III has confirmed Thank he willyou retain histhe Patronage of the War Widows Association for all congratulatory messages I received when I becam of Great Britain. This indeed is an honour and I am sure you will all join me in thanking Chairman. After all the lovely cards and very touching letters and em His Majesty for his continued support. do all that I can to live up to your expectations. I am fortunate to hav Thank you for all the congratulatory messages I received when I became Chairman. so much from our previous chairmen whose valuable work set the hig After all the lovely cards and very touching lettersand andcare. emails, I will do all thatwas I can to standards of dedication Their commitment extraordina live up to your expectations.

I am fortunate to have learned so much from our previous know I have much to aspire to. chairmen whose valuable work set the highest standards of dedication and care.

On a lighter note, the strangest and funniest Their commitment was extraordinary and I perhaps know I have much to aspire to. thing that I rece a small red bag containing some very random items! Even though I p

On a lighter note, perhaps the strangest and funniest thing that I received was a small red bag containing some very random items! Even though I pondered over it for ages, I struggled to find an obvious connection between these trinkets, or anything that might link them together. What did they all mean?

Fortunately, they came with a list of instructions. Read on and I am sure, like me, you will laugh out loud.

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Chairman’s Survival Kit COFFEE – To Make Sure you are Alert in the Mornings BUTTON –For When You May Need To Button Your Lip CRAYON – To Make Each Day Bright and Colourful JELLY BABY– When you Feel Like Biting Someone’s Head Off JIGSAW – To Help Everyone Fit Together As A Team ELASTIC BAND – For When You’re Stretched to Your Limit PLAYING CARD – To Help You Deal With any Situation MARBLE -Just in Case you Lose Yours PAPERCLIP – To Help You Hold it all Together COLA BOTTLE – For When you Could do With a Drink SALT – When You Need to Take Things With a Pinch of Salt TEA BAG – Remember to Relax After a Hard Day’s Work MINT – You Are Worth a Mint to Your Workplace It was lovely to see so many of you at the AGM in Stratford-upon-Avon. What a lovely town Stratford is and the weather was perfect for a stroll around on the Sunday. I visited the Shakespeare distillery on the Sunday, and managed to fit in a gin tasting.

Since then my time has been taken up finding my feet and getting to know the people and places that come as part of the Chairman’s role. Only last weekend I was at the National Memorial Arboretum for ‘A Time to Reflect’. It was a beautiful warm and sunny day, but there had been a lot of rain in the previous 48 hours. To say the Remembrance Glade was soggy is an understatement! There have also been several trips to London, not just for meetings, although there were many of those too, including the RAF Commemorative Service in St Clement Danes Church, the Anzac Day Parades in Whitehall, a small charities’ seminar, the Union Jack Club’s AGM, and of course the Royal Hospital Chelsea Founders’ Day. I expect many of you will be joining in the commemorations in June as we mark 80 years since D- Day. If you are attending any services, please remember to take photographs if you can and send them into Courage.

And finally, on the home front, the greenhouse has been scrubbed and cleaned within an inch of its life, and the tomatoes and cucumbers have been planted. Let’s hope that we all have a good summer so that our gardens will flourish.

Stay safe everyone and I look forward to meeting up with many of you in the next few months.

Chris -7-

Secretary’s Snippets It’s been a busy time again since I last wrote, sometimes online but sometimes in person and often in Edinburgh, either in the Castle or the Scottish Parliament! As I write, next up is the Scottish American Memorial Service in Princes Street Gardens on 27th May, then a DDay commemoration event in the Castle, hosted by Commonwealth War Graves Commission on 29th May. The Annual Service of Commemoration in the War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle takes place on 5th June. I’m also honoured to have been invited to Scotland’s Salute – A Tribute to DDay 80th Anniversary in the Usher Hall on 6th June. I think I may have to move to Edinburgh!

Our committee meetings have continued online and in person, and all the agreed minutes are on our website in the members area for you to read, as well as other stuff that goes on in the Association. If you haven’t already joined, please think about it.

Forums have been busy, mainly on Campaign 300, but we’re hoping that the new Book Club and others will take off too.

My two adopted elderly cats are both really settled now. I began to think that Toby (12) was never going to stop hiding but now he’s really come out of his shell and even taking his heart medication like a trooper! Jasmine (17) has just been diagnosed as hyperthyroid and arthritis so she’s on 2 lots of medication, which she is taking like a star so far. Old age doesn’t come by itself, even for pussy cats!

I hope this finds you all well, looking forward to summer and enjoying whatever you have planned!

Sue

Treasurer’s Jewels First let me thank you for electing me Treasurer at the AGM. After almost a year of being co-opted I now really feel part of the family.

The accounts that were presented at the AGM have now been signed (with a minor technical tweak) and will shortly be available on the Charity Commission website.

I very much dislike people who arrive new in post and feel the need to make some sort of dramatic change just to prove that they have arrived. So I have sat and watched so far. Now that I have a year of experience with the War Widows Association, I have identified a few things (nothing dramatic!) to improve the way we operate and support you. Hopefully the changes, which mostly revolve around budgeting and were agreed at the last committee meeting, will be invisible to the vast majority of you. I am also keen to see the Association develop a 5-year plan to build on our and align to our three pillars of Campaigning, Caring and Remembering. But rest assured, I am not advocating changes to our key events of Founders Day, Remembrance Weekend, and the AGM, or to core things like subsidised regional events.

One new departure was our attendance at the Duxford Summer Airshow last weekend (1/2 June). We had conversations with many hundreds of people, handed out lots of -8-

pencils, “bugs”, and cookbooks. Spoke with several people who have relatives of friends who would be eligible to join us, and over a hundred people who have taken away publicity which they have promised to put up on village, shop, pub, gym, school or GP surgery notice boards. In the light of the weekend and some of the feedback we received we are considering reworking some of our publicity material and returning to Duxford for the Battle of Britain weekend airshow on 14/15 September.

I look forward to seeing many of you at Founders Day. Richard

Vice Chair WWA Statistics Well it’s happened and I finally, officially, hold the title ‘Vice Chair’– and I have a badge to prove it! But it is only mine on loan – and I shall hand it on in due course. In my role as Vice Chair I have taken on the mantle of ‘Pensions’ Tzar’, albeit on a small scale and in the last edition of Courage I tried to explain the complexity of the military pensions’ schemes; various, multiple, often contradictory and frequently confusing.

In this edition I want to ask you to look over the horizon – as the trustees try to plan the future of the Association. There is good reason for us to do this – as trustees it is our duty to plan and think – and consider how will we operate with dwindling -9-

numbers? How will we find committee members? What is our budget to spend/save our money in the years ahead? Indeed, the ultimate question is how long will there be War Widows?

If we look back at the recent operations in Afghanistan and Iraq the UK Armed Forces lost approximately 600 personnel in related deaths. By comparison in WW2 the UK saw approximately 1,0001 deaths on the beaches at Gold and Sword in one day – 6 June 1944, DDay; the 80th anniversary of which approaches as I write.

The effect of this – in simple terms – is that the demographic curve for War Widows and our potential members is skewed heavily towards older ladies. The numbers that follow show how this gives us 2 huge challenges.

The MOD statistics for March 20232 report approx. 10,500 ladies in receipt of a War Widows Pension; interestingly, there were only 49 men receiving the War Widowers’ Pension. Of these ladies 58% are aged over 80 and none are under 40. This is the effect of the introduction in 2005 of the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme – which since its introduction has received just over 1,0003 applications – but made only 400 awards. (If you read my last article you will know that the AFCS has a much higher burden of proof for showing that death is a consequence of service – especially for illnesses.)

An awful comparison is that in April 1915 the War was creating 15,400 widows a month, and by 1919 there were 930,000.

Even in 1997 there were still 57,000 war widows – and although the rate in which the numbers have declined has eased, in the last 2 years we have lost approx. 900 ladies per year. The simple maths for this is that if this continued into the years ahead, we’d all be gone within 11 or 12 years; and I intend to be around longer than that!

So let’s look at the numbers again - from a different perspective. If we say: • that our youngest war widows are aged 40-50 years or so, • and the stats say there are currently 1,317 aged under 65, • and they survive on average for 40 years, by 2064 there will be almost no war widows left.

• And if the rate of AFCS awards is the same as in the last almost 20 years, • there would be another 800 awards making a total of 1200 AFCS widows.

• There may be as few as 2,500 widows/spouses/civil partners receiving attributable benefits.

So what are the challenges that these numbers present? Firstly that a ‘recruiting’ drive has a very limited pool of potential members. Of the ladies who are aged over 80, most are unlikely to take on an active role in the Association. So if we are looking for members who may be able to become trustees and take on the work of the Association, the challenge is that younger widows will probably have young children and jobs. Which leaves the ladies in the middle age group, they may have multigenerational responsibilities to grandchildren and elderly parents. There will be few to join and even even fewer to take on the work of running the Association.

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Looking again at that figure of 25,00, our membership is between 1/5 and 1/10 of the total War Widows population – so how do we continue with declining membership?

How do we make an Association work with only 125-250 members, scattered across the country? But most importantly, how do we continue to fight for those left behind?

I don’t have the answers – but these questions create the huge challenges for the trustees, as I said at the start, and they illustrate that we have big decisions to make, which may not always be popular, but may be necessary. But let me give you a final thought - there could be a War Widow (or 2!) still alive in 2100!

The youngest War Widow might be from: A veteran who was injured aged 20 in 2005 (pre 6 April), who dies of his injuries aged 60 in 2045, having married a much younger woman - say she is aged 45 when he dies.

If she lives to age 100 the WWP will continue until 2100!

And you make think that this may seem rather far-fetched – until you discover that the last Civil War (1861-1865) Pension was paid by the US government in 2020! Irene Triplett’s father was aged 83 when she was born in 1930, and he died when she was 8.

As she was severely disabled she continued to receive a pension until she died in 2020!

Notes 1. https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/d-day 2. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/war-pensions-scheme-statistics-2023 3. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/location-of-armed-forces-pension-andcompensation-recipients-2023

Debbie

Thank You John Miles John has diligently and professionally recorded Courage for us for some time now, voluntarily and at his own expense. Sadly, demand for this specialist service is now so low that it is no longer viable for John to continue. We understand, and are so grateful to him for his service and his commitment to the Association over many years.

Thank you, John, – you have been a wonderful supporter.

The Committee of Trustees

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ll birthplace of William Shakespeare.

Stratford upon Avon was the place was the place chosen for this ye Annual General Meeting 2024of history. It is, as I am over 800 years et town with beautiful mark e.allA beautiful spear of Willia know, the birthp We Stratford-upon-Avon was lace the place chosenmforShake this year’s AGM. arrivedmarket on town with over 800 years of history. It is, as I am sure you all know, the birthplace of Friday in time for William Shakespeare. dinner, and although We all some people had to Friday leave on the Sunday dinner, morning, others some p stayed to enjoy the leave o town at its best. mornin stayed town a

We all arrived on Friday in time a leisur ely stroll around the for dinner, and although some ket, some people took had atotrip leave on the the down Sunday morning, others stayed e others visited the local to enjoy the town at its best. ely stroll around the rm and a leisur at least took mem bers SomeSome took atwo leisurely stroll gin tastin around thethe Sunday market, some et, some gSunda mark in y local distill ery. took a trip down the took a trip down the river, while while others visited the local othersriver, visited the local butterfly farm butte and at rfly leastfarm two members and at least two members attended a gin tasting in the local attended a gin tasting in the local distillery. distillery.

The day was made extra special by the lovely early spring weather.

- 12 made extra special by the lovely early spring weather.

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Annual General Meeting 2024 cont...

We were joined by David Domoney, our Ambassador, for lunch on Saturday, and he very graciously gave gardening tips to some of our members.

We Amb very of ou

On Saturday morning we were fortunate to be joined by Lord Harlech, a member of the House of Lords. He listened intently to some of our members as they shared their stories, and promised to help in whatever Satur day Recognition morningPayment we were way he could with our Campaign toOn get the Widows’ for those fortuna who lost their War Widows’ pensions on remarriage or cohabitation. member of the Hous

e of Lords. He listen

Saturday evening saw us joined by they the Lord Mayordof Stratford-upon-Avon, Councillor share their stories, and promised t Kate Rolfe, and her consort.

our Campaign to get the

Wido Recogn As we always do, we chatted endlessly to each other and caught up with old ws’ friends, War Widows’ pensions on remarriage or at the same time as making new acquaintances.

It was truly delightful to see so many first timers at this AGM, all mixing and chatting in a lively and friendly manner. All in all, a wonderful and most memorable occasion.

I look forward to what the future holds for us all.

Saturday evening saw us joine d Dziuba Chris

by the Lord Mayor of Stratford upon Avon, Councillor Kate Rolfe, and her consort.

As we always do, we chatted endlessly to each other and caugh t -up with old friends, at - 14 the

It was a Saturday night in March and Strictly came to

It was a Saturday night in March and Stratford Upon Avon in March and Strictly came to Strictly tonight Stratford-upon-Avon a Saturday It wascame We all had the best time dancing theford night Upon away to Avon Brooklyn, a superb band who Strat played all the songs we know and love.

night away to Brooklyn, a superb band nd love We all had the best time dancing the night aw who played all the songs we know and love

e all had the best time dancing the night away to Brooklyn, a superb band ho played all the songs we know and love We all had the best time dancing the night away to Brooklyn, a superb band who played all the songs we know and love

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Strictly came to Stratford-upon-Avon cont...

There was no glitter ball and no dance off, and no-one was sent home.

There was no glitter ball and no dance off, and no-one was se

These two ladies obviously didn’t understand the rules. Tille dancing not allowed!

here was no glitter ball and no dance off, and no-one was sent home.

hese two ladies obviously didn’t understand the rules. Tiller girls and pole ancing notwas allowe glitter ball and no dance off, and no-one was sent home. no d!

There pole These two ladies obviously didn’t understand the rules. Tiller girls and dancing not allowed!

These two ladies obviously didn’t understand the rules. Tiller girls and pole dancing not allowed!

Chris Dziuba

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News of members - Freda Gadd

From Ros Dillon-Lee, Dorset

One of our members Freda Gadd celebrated her 105 birthday with family in March, One of our members Freda Gadd celebrated her 105th birthday with family in March, she has lived in Weymouth all her life she met her husband Charlie there while he she has lived in Weymouth all her life she met her husband Charlie there while he was stationed there with the Royal Engineers. After 4 years of marriage he was was stationed there with the Royal Engineers. After 4 years of marriage he was posted postedtotoFrance France for D-Day. During the campaign he was wounded twice the for D-Day. During the campaign he was wounded twice the second time second time very was infor hospital years. the his life he very seriouslyseriously and was and in hospital 2 years.for For2 the rest For of his liferest he of walked with walkeda with a stick or used a wheel chair, he died in 1959.

Freda has one daughter stick or used a wheel chair, he died in 1959. Freda has one daughter and still lives and still lives independently. hasmany attended ofand ourenjoys lunches and enjoys independently.

Freda hasFreda attended of our many lunches meeting up with meeting up with the Weymouth group. the Weymouth group. th

Freda Freda and Charlie on their wedding and Charlie on theirday wedding day

Ros Dillon-Lee, Dorset - 17 -

News of members Isabella MacArthur Bell 1911 - 2008 Isabella MacArthur Bell 1911to-the 2008 Imagine the surprise when a parcel addressed War Widows Ass

was opened to when reveal an MBE. It came a noteAssociation saying “My Imagine the surprise a parcel addressed to thewith War Widows was Gran opened to reveal an MBE. It came with a note saying “My Grandmother was awarded was awarded an MBE in 2000 for Services to the War Widows, and it an MBE in 2000 for Services to the War Widows, and it was my father’s wish that after wishgothat after he died it should go to the Association”. hefather’s died it should to the Association”.

This was one to be investigated! I contacted Irene

This to many be investigated!

I contac Shielswas who I one am sure of you will remember.

She waswho the Association Chairman Shiels I am sure manyfrom of 1993 you towill re 1996 and had very fond memories of Isabella.

She was the Association Chairman from 1993 She managed to find some old news letters and very fondAssociation, memoriesshowing of Isabell from had the War Widows managed tooffind some old just the kind enthusiastic andnews caring letters person from she was.

Although I didn’t know this lady as I the Widows Association, showing just read the snippets of news and adventures I got enthusiastic and caring person she was. Al the feeling that she was really special. Isobel’s didn’t know this lady her as IGrandmother read the snippets grand-daughter described as and adventures and got the active, feeling that she w a feisty wee Scot who was always slightly naughty and as well as Wargrand-daughter Widows was involveddescri special.

Isobel’s in amateur dramatics and light opera well into Grandmother as a feisty wee Scot who wa her eighties. active, slightly naughty and as well as War Isobel’s husband Lieutenant Alexander Bell died was involved in amateur dramatics and lig in 1944, aged 33 years and is buried in Bayeux well into eighties.

Cemetery. He was in charge of a 3 ton lorry fullher of men going out on detachment to an anti-tank unit. The lorry caught fire and Lieutenant Bell and a few others tried unsuccessfully to put the fire out. He and another soldier were killed when the lorry exploded.

Chris Dziuba Isobel’s husband Lieutenant Alexander Bell died in 1944, aged 33 yea Isabel’s account of the tree planting as printed in the War Widows buried in Bayeux Cemetery. He was in charge of a 3 ton lorry full of m newsletter out on detachment to an anti-tank unit. The lorry caught fire and Lieute Chester Council is intried the process of planting a to Wood Reconciliation choseanothe and aCity few others unsuccessfully putofthe fire out. and, HeI and anwere English Oak, which I pray will grow and bloom for ever in memory of my husband killed when the lorry exploded.

Lieutenant Alexander bell. This took place on a very cold day, which I understand is the best time to plant trees. Members of my family attended, also Irene Bloor and Ruth Crossman and the Sherriff of Chester. I may say that Robert stole the show and loved helping to dig the hole for the tree. After the planting Irene read an impressive is Court an old ph passage and ended with a short prayer. In all a beautiful service. ThenThis off to the Hotel for lunch beginning with hot soup which was most welcome. A sincere thank you of Isabel plantin to all who supported me on the day. I was in a state of great pride andwith sadnesshelp too. from - 18 -

grandson Robert.

buried in Bayeux Cemetery. He was in charge of a 3 ton lorry fu out on detachment to an anti-tank unit. The lorry caught fire and This is an old photograph of Isabel planting a tree with help from great grandson Robert. and a few others tried unsuccessfully to put the fire out. He and were killed when the lorry exploded.

It is believed that the silver spade used during he planting was once used by the Queen.

This is an of Isabel with help grandson R

It is believe spade use planting w he Queen.

Isabella MacArthur Bell, a tribute by Irene Shiels (Bloor) MBE Warm, friendly and enthusiastic with the kind of smile that would brighten the darkest day, Isobel as she was known to the War Widows Association was a delightful lady. The widow of Lieutenant Alexander Bell, and mother to Eleanor and Alex, life was difficult for Isobel, as it was for many War Widowsof her generation. Although not a Founder member of the War Widows Association Isobel was an early recruit. She served as Regional Organiser for Chester, Wirral and North wales for some 20 years. She even included Liverpool City for a short time. Isobel was one of those Regional Organisers who believed in making sure “her ladies” were recognised and remembered. Long before it became an expectation Isobel was arranging regular meetings, coffee mornings, lunches and even boat trips on the River Dee. All funded by monies raised through her contacts with Civic Authorities, local associations and businesses. She was an enthusiastic member of an amateur dramatic society and used her eloquence and undoubted presence to persuade these organisations that they should help. She encouraged all her members to participate in events and especially welcomed the younger members. I especially remember Jane, Janet and Kirsty, three Army widows whose husbands had been killed as a direct consequence of the “troubles in Northern Ireland. Isobel took them firmly under her wing and involved them in local and National activities, so ensuring their sacrifices were equally remembered. Isobel was awarded the MBE in 2000 for Services to the War Widows in Cheshire. A recognition most justly deserved. She died in 2008. Isobel was loved by everyone who knew her and I am proud to remember her as a friend.

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In Memory...

Mrs Wilhemina Ahern - County Cork Mrs Barbara Arnold - Kent Central Mrs Bernice Bartlett - Kent Central Mrs Jean Blackwell - South Wiltshire Mrs Renee Blezard - Cornwall Mrs Helen Bray - Leicestershire Mrs M Brown - Glasgow/SW Scotland Mrs Hilda Brown - Surrey Mr Ronald Cowle - Wirral Mrs Dorothy Cummins - South Wiltshire Mrs June Doughty - Bristol & Bath Mrs Grace Dowell - Edinburgh/SE Scotland Mrs Sarah Evans - Overseas Mrs Mary Fox - Isle of Man Mrs Pearl Gloine - Plymouth Mrs Joan Green - Plymouth Mrs Jill Harper - Birmingham Mrs Pauline Harris - Suffolk Mrs Kathleen Harvey - Isle of Wight Mrs Patricia Hawes - West Yorkshire Mrs Angela Holland - SE Wales Mrs A Hughes - Glasgow/SW Scotland Mrs Joyce Keable - Gloucestershire Mr Bruce Kelly - Dundee/Central Scotland Mr Patrick Kilgallen - Staffordshire Mrs Joan Lewis - North Wiltshire Mrs Valerie Lucas - North Wiltshire Mrs Beryl Madden - North Wiltshire Mrs M M Malone - Bristol & Bath - 20 -

Mrs Doreen Mansley - Hampshire Mrs Sylvia Anne Marron - Mansfield Mrs Marjorie Marsden - Shropshire Mrs Mary Mawhood - Bristol & Bath Mrs Elsie Miles - North Wiltshire Mrs Ena Mitchell - Oxfordshire Mrs Beryl Murray - Nottinghamshire Mrs Elsie Oakshett - Surrey Mrs Elizabeth Orr - Aberdeen/NE Scotland Mrs Lilian Peet - Northamptonshire Mrs Patricia Salmon - Cornwall Mrs Edna Seeley - Norfolk Mrs Veronica Simpson - North Kent Mrs Betty Windrum - Northern Ireland Dr Digby Withers - Hertfordshire Mrs Mary Yardley - North Kent Memories from David Mitchell

Lord ‘Frank’ Field’s recent death brings back memories of his quiet support of the War Widows, both in the House of Commons and the House of Lords, during his long Political career. Described by Irene Sheils, past National Chair and Members Vice President, as someone with an involved Social Obligation Lord Field often spoke when the debates concerned War Pensions etc. He attended our November Lunches and sometimes, when possible, just came and stood at the back of our Saturday Muster. A good friend, well remembered! It is believed that one of his Grandmothers was a First World War Widow.

Another sad passing is that of Ian Medhurst from Scunthorpe. Ian acted as my (David Mitchell’s) “Scrutineer” for many years when I was your Returning Officer, a job he carried out with great diligence and responsibility. We often had thousands of votes to validate and then count, sometimes meaning two trips for Ian to my home in Lincoln, but Ian’s cheerful and enthusiastic spirit kept us going. As befits an ex-RAF man, nothing escaped Ian’s attention. It was long and often arduous work but we always kept a sense of humour. I will miss him.

The War Widows’ Association extends condolences to family and friends of all those members who have sadly passed away.

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proper book club meeting. No doubt this meeting will be as enjoya for one, am looking forward to it. The bonus will be as time goes o more books but also made new friends.

War Widows Book Club from Reading Force is a charity specifically for those with military conn children, and encourages communication between family and frien Reading Forcemore, you can find them at www.readingforce.org.uk

Rem

Enjoy reading and meeting Margar new people, et Hind, especially RO Assistantif you have something in common with them?

Earlier this year the War Widows Association had the opportunity to start their own online book club with the generous support of Reading Force.

After the initial email offering members of the association the opportunity to join, there were so many replies we had enough to create a second book club which will be starting in the Autumn. There are still a few spaces in the group so look out for the next email offering places.

Once we’d registered as a group Reading Force gave us a selection of titles to choose from including ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’ by Delia Owen, ‘Capital’ by John Lanchester, and ‘Grown Ups’ by Marian Keyes.

We decided on a date and time to meet, chose a book and then waited for the postman to deliver the goods which in this case was Skios by Michael Frayn. As a group, we are scattered throughout the country from Elgin to Emsworth, with a corresponding age range, but we have two things in common, we are all war widows and we all enjoy reading.

After a lovely initial meeting last month, just to chat and get to know each other, we were all keen to open our books. By the time you are reading this article we will have had our first proper book club meeting. No doubt this meeting will be as enjoyable as the previous and I, for one, am looking forward to it. The bonus will be as time goes on, not only will I have read more books but also made new friends.

Reading Force is a charity specifically for those with military connections, both adults and children, and encourages communication between family and friends.

If you want to know more, you can find them at www.readingforce.org.uk Margaret Hind, RO Assistant - 22 -

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membe

ring

WE LCOME

bers and me our new mem co el w to e lik ld ine.

We wou ading your magaz hope you enjoy re the ons about any of ti es qu y an ve ha about the Should you e to find out more lik ld ou w or d ur te events lis contact one of yo se ea pl n io at ci so t cover. work of the As on the inside fron ils ta de t ac nt co , Trustees

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g n Mem be rshi p Ca rd s i n g i a p am

FULL members of the Wa r Widows’ Association are afforded the privilege of Temporary Ho norary Membership of the Union 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 AL S), telephone number, together with a copy of your awards notifi cat ion to confirm your entitlement under the War Pension Scheme or Armed Forces Compensation Scheme, you should also include a Passport size photo and also enclose a stamped addressed en velope; 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 an y 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.

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e emb details Veterans-UKmContact eri ng

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

Caring

Please include:- Full Name, Address, Postcode, Country (if overseas), daytime telephone number 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.

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board NE W BADG ES

We have new War Widows Association badges, and every member can receive one for the cost of postage and packing Contact merchandise@warwidows. org.uk for more information and instructions of how to pay the postage.

g n i n g i ampa

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.

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COPY FOR TH E

REM EM BE R - TH E DEADLINE FORer 2024 NEXT COURAG E IS 1st Octob

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

Please send all contributions to

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Notice board

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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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ring WAR WIDOWS CONNECTED - PROJECT UPDATE Twitter: @WarWidows_WWit Website: http://www.warwidows.org.uk/war-widows-connected Veteran’s Foundation: https://www.veteransfoundation.org.uk

This new project has been underway since the beginning of January and has been made possible by funding from the Veterans’ Foundation.

This project follows on from the success of the War Widows InTouch (WW.it) project we ran during the pandemic, in which 37 members received iPads and training. The Veterans’ Foundation has given us a grant to run a smaller version of that project, along with continuing to build our online community and creating a more structured Regional Organiser Network.

War Widows Connected is another important project, and due to the impact the pandemic has had on many of our members it is even more important than ever that people have the access to, and skills to use, digital technologies to stay connected with friends and family.

The project was open to ALL members of the WWA and we had up to 10 iPads available this time.

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Letters and application forms were sent out to all WWA members in January 2024 asking for participants to apply to the project. We had 9 members apply to take part in the project.

After many phone calls and email exchanges, members received their iPads on 30th April along with the first evaluation form.

Training has started and some members are getting ready to book in for their 3rd session already. Some members have yet to have their first session due to ill health, and we wish them all the best for their recovery so we can help get them online and more connected once they are back to full strength.

On behalf of the WWA, I would like to thank the Veteran’s Foundation for funding this project.

If you have any questions about this project, would like to express interest in applying next year or would like some IT training for yourself, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me directly for a wee chat.

Have a lovely summer J

Helen Raw Project Manager, War Widows Connected Project 07775 592 604 | warwidowsconnected@helenraw.com

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all made our We Little Soldie sociations and from Scotty’s major ity of rs. atten dees wore suitable footwear. Th end Nicola Frail.

Rever led by nd joined the service which was of repre senta tives from the War Widows Associati A Time to Reflect service widows’ associations and from Scotty’s Lit way to the Glade andArboretum joined the e which It was a beautiful spring day at the National Memorial on servic 18th May. The wa previous week had seen a lot of rain, and this left the Remembrance Glade muddy After the Service we were all and very slippery.

Fortunately, we had all invited to pick a flower and been forewarned and the place it on the mirrored centre majority of attendees wore suitable footwear. piece in the Remembrance There was an impressive Glade, or to take a flower and crowd of representatives from the War Widows place it elsewhere in the Association, along with Arboretum. the three single service widows’ associations and from Scotty’s Little Soldiers. We all made our way to the Glade and

joined the service which was led by Reverend Nicola Frail.

After the Service we were all invited to pick a flower and place it on the mirrored centre piece in the Remembrance Glade, or to take a flower and place it elsewhere in the Arboretum.

Following the service there was time to explore the Arboretum and visit those memorials that had a special meaning to us. The Arboretum is an enormous woodland landscape of 150 acres. It houses over 400 memorials, both personal and organisational, and more than 25,00 trees. It is a deeply moving and very beautiful site.

I placed my flower at the - 28 -

Af inv pla pie Gla pla Ar

ws Baroness Strange in the War Wido garde n was tidy and looked cared for. the but , bloom in be to early for the roses memorial to Baroness Strange in the War Widows Association RoseeGarden.

It was too earlyers found memb lunch some Befor for the roses to be in bloom, a rest on the andand sit down time but for the agarden was tidy looked cared ws’for.bench Wido War

Sadly benc The almo thing to co the p mem await

Before lunch some members

side the rialandalong theformemo , time Sadly found a sit down a rest onwas the War Widows’ weather beaten. andbench worn bench Sadly, the colou memorial alongside of our logo had ring red The the bench was worn and d. One peareThe t disap almos weather beaten. red of the first colouring our logo haded home was I return I didofwhen things almost disappeared. One of etum the IArbor conta tothe first ct things did when I to ask what returned home to contact for restoring the durewaswas proce the the Arboretum to ask what the time of writing, I rial. wasAtforthe memo procedure restoring the memorial.

At r. the time of an answe await

rved catch

Befo time War

writing, I await an answer.

A most welcome buffewelcome t lunch was A most buffetserve lunch d wasrant served in Aspects restaurant in Aspects restau allowing us to catch allowing us to catch up with up with friends, old and friends, oldnew, and befor new, ebefore driving home. driving home.

Chris Dziuba

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Dates for the diary 2024 Founder’s Day Guards Chapel, London Friday 6th September Opening of Field of Remembrance, Westminster Abbey Thursday 7th November War Widows Association Service of Remembrance, Cenotaph, London Saturday 9th November Remembrance Sunday Sunday 10th November

2025 War Widows Association AGM, Hotel Mercure, Winchester Friday 11th, Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th April 2025

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sion when these colonial th cam soldie rsmber foughtroop in the. Gallip t along died other side each s who On 25oli reme Corps – ANZACS - to 5, the Anzacs landed on thethese rn side side each alongsula. the rs fough Gallip olitpenin soldie ial of Five oth first occasion when westecolon Anzac s died that Anzac Day day, ands lande oli pen the site Gallip of theas side after westenrnthere the know d onwas Anzac Anzac April 1915, the e camp aign was landbasedthat there eleme know ntWidows was of a strate site the gy inten and ded tonallow On April and 25th the Trustees theday, War Association at dawn parades in afte died srepresented Anzac thous ps to pass Glasgow, Edinburgh London.

Yes, that’s dawn parades.

At a5am we stood throu gh theand Darda gy intend nelles strate and right, of ntantin captu reeleme Const based ople, the landwas (now aign camp Cove. The alongside soldiers from the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps – ANZACS - to Istanb ul). re Const captuwhen and Dardanelles remember troopsto who died throu in the Gallipoli the first occasion these antin gh thecampaign, pass Allied ships

colonial soldiers fought alongside each other. On 25th April 1915, the Anzacs landed n as Istanb know Kate on the western side of ul). the Gallipoli peninsula.

Fiveatten thousand died day, Thomas dedAnzacs a servic e that at the and the site was known thereafter as Anzac Cove.

The campaign was the land-based Commonwealth War Thom ded Graveas s inatten Glasg owa ser element of a strategy intended to allow Allied ships toKate pass through the Dardanelles and capture Constantinople, (now known as Istanbul). Commonwealth War Graves

Kate Thomas attended a service at the Commonwealth War Graves in Glasgow

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Anzac Day cont...

The Chairman attended the dawn service at the Wellington Arch at Hyde Park Corner in London,

The Chairman attended the da service at the Wellington Arch Hyde Park Corner in London

The C servi Hyde

The Chairman attended the dawn service at the Wellington Arch at Hyde Park Corner in London

After the dawn service the Chairman attended a service in Westminster Abbey,

After the dawn service the Ch attended a service in Westminster Ab

After the d attended a ser

After the- 32dawn service the Chairman attended a service in W

Sue R Road atten Natio Castl Sue Raw attended a service at Comely Road cemetery and afterwards she attended a service at the Shrine at the National War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle.

Sue Raw attended a service at Comely Road cemetry and afterwards she attended a service at the Shrine at the National War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle.

Having lai Memorial opposite Wellington Arch, the Ch

alian War Having laid a wreath at the Austr - 33 Arch, the Chairman returned the following day

Anzac Day cont...

Having laid a wreath at the Australian War Memorial opposite Wellington Arch, the Chairman returned the following day to find that someone had left a full tin of Anzac to find biscuits as a symbolic and poignant gesture.

t

had left Anzac b symbolic gesture.

It is thought that Anzac biscuits were sent by wives and women’s groups to soldiers It is thoug abroad because the ingredients did not spoil easily and the biscuits kept well during naval transportation. The original Anzac biscuit was known as Anzac wafer or tile, and biscuits w along with beef bully, was part of the rations given to soldiers during World War 1. They wives and were included instead of bread because they had a much longer shelf-life. As you can groups the ingredients didThe not spoil ea imagine, fresh to andsoldiers nourishingabroad food was because scarce for soldiers during that time. story goesbiscuits that the women back in Australia wanted to do something about it and came kept well during naval transportation.

The original Anzac up with a biscuit that they could send that would survive the long journey overseas known as Anzac wafer or tile, and along with beef bully, was part without spoiling. Made from rolled oats, coconut, sugar, flour, butter, golden syrup, given soda to soldiers during War ANZAC 1. They were instead bicarbonate and boiling water, World the traditional biscuit was included born.

because they a much longer shelf-life. you imagine, fr Buttery and sweet with had a slight zing from the bicarbonate soda,As they arecan traditionally baked until they arefood crunchy jaw-breakers.

According to the Australian Memorial nourishing was scarce for soldiers during thatWar time.

The story in Canberra, soldiers would grind them up to make porridge.

the women back in Australia wanted to do something about it and Chris Dziuba with a biscuit that they could send that would survive the long jou 34 overseas without spoiling. -Made from rolled oats, coconut, sugar,

Traditional ANZAC biscuits Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 12 minutes Total Time: 22 minutes Yield: approx 16 Ingredients ●

1 cup plain flour

●

1/2 cup sugar

●

1 cup rolled oats

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1 cup desiccated coconut

●

125g butter

●

1/4 cup golden syrup

●

1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

●

1 tablespoon boiling water

Instructions 1.

Preheat oven to 160C (fan-forced). Line baking trays with baking paper

2.

Sift flour and sugar into a bowl. Add oats and coconut and mix together

3.

In a small saucepan heat golden syrup and butter on a low heat, stirring until melted and smooth

4.

Dissolve the bicarbonate of soda in boiling water, then add immediately to the butter/syrup mixture. Note that the mixture will foam (so fun to watch!)

5.

Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir well

6.

Use an ice cream scoop or tablespoon measure to scoop up the mixture. Form balls with your hands and place on the tray. Flatten the balls gently and allow some room for spreading (as you can see in the photos, they can look very ‘rustic’!)

7.

Bake for 10 – 12 minutes for a chewy biscuit or 15 – 20 for a crunchy biscuit (make sure you watch biscuits carefully if baking a crunchy biscuit to make sure they don’t burn)

8.

Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack immediately to cool

Notes The biscuits will stay crisp for about 1 week in an airtight container. After that they will soften a bit, but are still good! If the biscuits go soft they can be crisped up in the oven-5 mins at 180o C - Enjpy.

Chris Dziuba - 35 -

ROL Report & R O Reports REGIONAL ORGANISER LIAISON RAMBLINGS Contact details - Email: rol@warwidows.org.uk The little band of ROs has increased by 1! Tara Cunningham has recently taken on the role in Northern Ireland, welcome Tara.

By the time you read this, we will have had our first regional get together via Zoom. I’ll report on how it went next time, but the initial aim was to allow the ladies to see who else lived in their area and have a chat with the volunteer who’d offered to possibly arrange a funded lunch. This will, hopefully, have avoided lots of toing and froing with possible dates, venue ideas etc. etc. and made the lunch accessible to as many as possible. All Zoom meetings will be hosted and moderated by either Margaret, myself, or both of us, so they will be safe spaces to meet.

The online book club hosted by Margaret is up and running, they had their first Zoom meeting in April, which by all accounts, went well. There will, hopefully, be another one taking place in the autumn as there was so much interest that we have a waiting list!

I am here to support the ROs to support their members but as we have so few, and large areas of the country are not covered, I can also support members directly to arrange funded events etc. I’m still going to try to get out and about during the year to meet up with some of you so, do get in touch if you have a suggestion as to where I could visit. As always, my contact details are in the front of Courage.

Best wishes §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

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Liz Carter

BEDFORDSHIRE, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE AND CAMBRIDGESHIRE_____________________________ Area 1

Contact details - Gill Grigg 01296 482393 Email grigg493@btinternet.com

I hope you are all well and enjoying life.

Once again health issues have prevented me from holding any meetings yet in 2024.

My left hip had been playing up for some time so it was decided that I would have a full replacement operation on 14 March six weeks ago on Thursday.

I saw the consultant yesterday and he was very pleased with my progress. It is still very painful but hopefully that will reduce with time. I am doing the exercises and walking further each day so hopefully I will be driving again very soon and able to arrange meetings. I do miss seeing you all.

I have just come back from my walk and have done 1200 steps and 16 lamp posts. (I count the lamp posts and hope to increase by one each day!)

I had two weeks of respite care in a care home when I came home from hospital and was very well looked after. The staff were all very helpful and caring. I had a lovely ensuite room with access to the garden and a wonderful view over the Chiltern Hills.

There were sheep and horses in the field and numerous rabbits and birds to keep me amused. It is so good to be back in my own home I was unable to attend the AGM in person or remotely. I am sure there will be full reports in this Edition of Courage. As always opinions I have heard have varied but not having attended I cannot comment. I understand that a lot of time was spent discussing the Position of the Widows applying for the lump sum payment.

Listening to the radio I understand that the King hopes to be fit to undertake duties very shortly which is really good news.

I am looking forward to some warmer weather and sunshine and am hoping the Council organises road repairs near me soon as it is increasingly difficult to avoid the potholes.

I must make an appointment for my next Covid jab having just received the Invitation to book from the NHS. There is still a lot of the disease about as well as seasonal flu, so please do have your next booster jab.

Thank you for your messages and cards, I look forward to seeing you soon.

Best wishes §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ - 37 -

Gill

CORNWALL___________________________________ Area 4

Contact details - Susan Williams 0845 2412189 Email wwarocornwall@btinternet.com

After a cold, windy and very long wet winter that seemed to go on forever, thank goodness I think we have turned a corner into warmer drier weather. By the time this Summer edition of Courage lands on your doorstep I hope you are sitting in the sunshine enjoying an ice cream. Our swallows are back on the farm once again, I think it’s marvellous how they navigate the world twice a year.

My visit to Stratford- upon- Avon for our AGM in March was very enjoyable. It was so lovely to see friends from all over the UK again, catching up on news from around our regions and sending best wishes back to members for various reasons not present. I would like to thank Moira and wish her a very happy retirement from her three years of chairmanship; I hope you have time to walk your two lovely dogs and spend time with friends and family once again, and I do hope to see you at future events. I wish both Chris and Debbie success in their new roles for the next three years.

Here in Cornwall it is time for the influx of visitors to descend upon us for the holiday season, I do hope it’s a good safe time for all. I am looking forward to sunny days on our boat and fingers crossed catching some fish for tea. I also look forward to meeting up with members for lunch and afternoon tea. Take care and enjoy the sunshine.

Susan §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

DEVON______________________________________ Area 9

Contact details - Irene Wills 01752 509917 Email: wwarodevon@gmail.com ­ The sun is shining it isn’t raining - is this Devon! Let’s hope now that summer has arrived that we have ‘proper’ summer weather and that you are able to get out and enjoy it, even if it’s just in the garden or maybe just to open windows and let the summer in.

I would love to see more of our Devon members but it is becoming very difficult to find a venue and time where we can meet. My last letter listed some events where War Widows have been invited, they were mostly in the Plymouth area but I am hoping that we will be invited to the Devon Festival of Remembrance again this year and if we are the I do hope that many of you will be there to enjoy the evening.

I would like to organise a Christmas lunch or tea but where to hold it? I thought it would have to be a large town with transport links so the obvious would be Exeter, Torquay, Barnstable or Newton Abbot. Any thoughts and would you come along?

Do please give me a ring.

Best wishes to you all. §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ - 38 -

Irene

DORSET_____________________________________ Area 10 Contact details - Ros Dillon-Lee 01202 301929 Well here we are in spring at last what a wet depressing winter we have had, it is partly due to he weather that I have not yet organised any lunches but I promise I will get round to it soon. I will be in touch when I have arranged some summer outings. Do get in touch if you have any ideas about good lunch venues.

Have a good summer and stay well.

Ros §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

DUNDEE AND CENTRAL SCOTLAND_______________ Area 59 Contact details - Sue Raw 07500 060518 or sue_raw@yahoo.co.uk At the time of writing, we are looking forward to our summer lunch at the Beefeater at Discovery Quay in Dundee on Tuesday 11th June – always a good turnout, good food and great banter.

Monthly meetings take place on the second Tuesday of the month at 10.30 in the DCA (next door to the Queen’s Hotel) for Dundee members, but all are welcome if you’re in the area! §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

Sue Raw

HAMPSHIRE_________________________________ Area 16

Contact details - Madlaine Dunn 07879 640253

Email madlainedunn@netscape.net Hello everybody, I am sorry to say it is still cold when I am writing this, let’s hope by the time “Courage” comes out the weather will improve.

I attended the A.G.M. in Stratford-on-Avon in March and it was not warm then, but it was nice to see some of the familiar faces.

I am still holding my meetings in H.M.S. Nelson Wardroom on the second Tuesday of the month at 11.00am followed by lunch in the mess. If you would like to join us, you would be most welcome but please let me know as you need to be booked in. I also hold lunches on the third Sunday of each month at the “Ship Anson” at 12.30.p.m.

Again if you would like to join us, I need to know four days before the date of the lunch. I am going to hold the summer lunch for the Association on the third Sunday in July at the Ship Anson, 13.30pm. The Association will pay the first £15.00 for the lunch, anybody who wishes to come please either email me or phone me at least four days before the date.

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Ladies of the I.O.W I hope you are keeping well; you are more than welcome to join us in anything I arrange just let me know. If you need help or wish just to talk, I am here.

Take care, Madlaine §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

KENT CENTRAL_______________________________ Area 20 Contact details - Rosalind Campbell 01483 852056 We had a very enjoyable lunch in April. I was wearing my WWA scarf and a young fellow came over and bought us all a glass of wine to thank us as he said he would not have had the life he had if it hadn’t been for our support for our husbands. Wasn’t that kind!

We hope to meet for our 2nd lunch of the year on 4 November at 12 O’clock in The Barn in Tunbridge Wells where we have been warmly welcomed for many years. Please let me know if you want to join us.

You can contact me directly by telephone on 01483 852056, or by email roscampbell07@ yahoo.co.uk. If you need to contact me via the PO address, please mark the envelope Private and Confidential.

With my kindest regards Rosalind §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

MANCHESTER________________________________ Area 30

Contact details - Margaret Crerar 0161 789 5334

Firstly, let me start by apologising for missing the meet up with everyone in March at the AGM. As some of you no doubt have heard, I was poorly, but I am now on the slow road to recovery.

In January the Ladies from Manchester met up with the Lady Mayoress of Manchester, Councillor Yasmine Dar for afternoon tea (photo enclosed). The War Widows have since been invited to a service at Manchester Cathedral on Sunday 19th May.

I will be touch later this year about meeting up for lunch over the summer.

Margaret §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ - 40 -

NORTH WILTSHIRE____________________________ Area 53

Contact details - Liz Carter 01249 890219 Email liz@carterhousehold.co.uk

After all the excesses of the autumn, it’s been a quiet start to the year with just the coffee mornings happening. There were good turnouts, with a vibrant buzz, for both the January and March meetings which were held in Crown’s café in the REME museum. Everyone who attended agreed that it was a good venue so, unless you hear otherwise, we will meet there each time for the foreseeable future. We will soon be making plans for the summer subsidised event, probably to take place in July or August so if you have any ideas or don’t hear anything, do get in touch.

Recently we’ve welcomed Madelaine and Pamela and soon hope to meet Mary from ‘out of area’ so if anybody else from a bordering region is thinking about joining us, do give us a try, the more, the merrier.

Sadly though, we have lost 2 members this year; Joan Lewis who, although housebound, was a proud member of the Association and Val Lucas who was a staunch supporter until she became ill. Also, recently I found out that Doreen Mansley, who had moved away but had loved to keep in contact with her old friends here, died last year.

It was good to see 3 local members at the AGM in March and maybe I’ll have a chance to catch up with more at the other national events later in the year. In the meantime, take care.

Diary Dates Coffee mornings; 17th July, 11th Sept, 13th Nov 10-12 noon.

Crown’s café REME Museum SN15 4XX. Contact Liz Carter on 01249 890219, liz@ carterhousehold.co.uk for more information and the venue.

Liz Carter §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

PLYMOUTH__________________________________ Area 38 Contact details - Irene Wills 01752 509917 Email wwarodevon@gmail.com Plymouth members enjoyed a lovely Afternoon Tea, the sun shone and we were able to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of D Day. Only seven members came along to the Tudor Rose Tea Rooms and Garden, a listed building on the Elizabethan cobbled New Street, one of the oldest streets on the Plymouth Barbican, a venue new to us but it did deliver. It was disappointing that we were such a small group but we made up for the lack of numbers with lots of chatter and laughs. We have now booked up for a seasonal lunch in December. Wishing you all happy warm and sunny summer.

Take care Irene Wills

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SURREY & SUSSEX____________________Area 47, 48 & 49 Contact details - Rosalind Campbell 01483 852056 I trust you are well and looking forward to the summer after our very wet and windy Spring. I am off to the US soon. Usually I go for Christmas when there is lots of snow and we cannot get out, so I hope that this will be a warm and sunny visit!

We meet twice in the year in the Guildford area, in Spring and Autumn. If you would like to come along please let me know.

You can contact me on: Telephone: 01483 852056, or by email at roscampbell07@ yahoo.co.uk. If you need to contact me via the PO Box address please mark the envelope Private and Confidential.

Keep well and stay safe Rosalind Campbell MBE §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§ §§§

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Royal Hospital Chelsea Founders’lookin Day g very glamorou RAF Club and heade We were suited and booted and Royal Hospital Chelsea Founders’ Day Hospi tal Chelse a. very glamorous Day as we left theTh Royal Hospital Chelsealooking Founders’ specia l signifi Club suited andextra headed for the Royal can WeRAFwere and booted and WeHospital were suited and booted and Chelsea. held the This In-Pen san looking very glamorous asyear wesioner left the looking very glamorous as we left the Day ders’ Foun ea Chels ital Hosp l Roya extra special significance for some of Hospi tal.for tradit RAF Club for theTheir Royal RAF Cluband andheaded headed the Royal the In-Pensioners at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

ThisThis year held an an Day d Servic boote e coinci and ded suited Hospital Chelsea. year held We were Hospital. traditional Founders’ extra special Their significance for some annive rsary we ofsome rous the left Dextra special significance foras of glamo g very lookin ofDay the Service In-Pensioners at the coincided withRoyal the 80th World R thein27 the at War for II. dthe OfRoyal and Club Hospital.

Their of traditional Founders’ RAFIn-Pensioners anniversary theheade D-Day landings Day Service coincided the 80th Hospital.

Founders’ intraditional the held year This Hospi a.with ta Chelse talTheir Hospi World War II. Of the 273Royal In-Pensioners anniversary of the D-Day landings in th Day Service coincided with the 80 served som incance the inextra the Royal Hospital, 13 Secon offorthem signifi World War specia II. Of thel 273 In-Pensioners d W anniversary of the D-Day landings served in the Second World War. s ofatthemthe inR sioner13 in the the Royal Hospital, In-Pen World theWorld 273 In-Pensioners served War in theII.Second War. ional Found tradit Their tal. Of Hospi in the Royal Hospital, 13 with of them the Day Service coincided served in the Second World War. anniversary of the D-Day landing World War II. Of the 273 In-Pensio There was There was in the Royal Hospital, 13 of t more than more than the Second World War. into There was more than enough time to pose for enoug enough time to served h time photographs with the In-Pensioners. pose for pose for There was photographs photographs more withthan the Inenough time to with the InPensioners.

Pensioners. pose for photographs There was withmore the Inthan Pensioners. h time to

enoug pose for photographs with the InPensioners.

- 43 -

and the played s Band ream Guard the Coldst parade the TheThe sun shone on the as Coldstream Guards Band played andIn-the In on shone sun The sun shone on theparade paradeas as the the Coldst ream Guard s Band played and Inwas year itthe . This This ing Officer Review tion bybythe for up forme Pensio Pensioners formed inspection the Reviewing Officer. year it was Pensioners ners formeddup upfor forinspec inspection by the Reviewing Officer . This year it was Royal Hospital Chelsea Founders’ Day cont...

Royal. ss Prince The ss Highne Royal Her Royal HighnessThe HerHer Royal Highness Royal.

ThePrincess Princess Royal. didn’t wethe and althou seats Band The sun shone on the parade as the Coldstream Guards playedgh and Inour tiered from parade of the

view aagood had We had good viewofofthe theparade parade from our tiered WeWe had a good view fromthe our tiered seats although we seats andand althou gh we Pensioners formed up for inspection Reviewing This year wasdidn’t Her sedidn’ initrespon smiles s, their sionerOfficer. the In-Pen toby said ss Highne Royal Her what hear hear what Her Royal Highne said to Royal Highness TheHighness Princessss Royal. sioners, their smiles in respon hear what Her Royal said tothe theIn-Pen In-Pensioners, their smiles in response se itit all! said someh somehow ow said all!

We had a good view of the parade from our tiered seats and although we didn’t hear somehow said it all! what Her Royal Highness said to the In-Pensioners, their smiles in response somehow said it all!

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After the parade, the War Widows were invited to a reception where we met After the parade, the War Widows were invited to a reception where we met and parade chatted, the to other Widows were invited to a reception where we met War guests. the After and chatte d to other .

After the parade, theguests War Widows were invited to a reception where we met and guests. otherguests. d to and chatte chatted to other

A good time was had by all.

A good time was had by all.

A good time was had by all.

A good time - 45was - had by all.

A good time was had by all. good time was had by all.

Chris Dziuba

Are YOU ready to become a Trustee?

The War Widows’ Association is looking for new trustees to join the board. As a trustee you will become an important part in running this Association, which is so close to all of our hearts.

As a Trustee you will play an important role in the running of this Association, which is so close to our hearts.

Next year we are looking to recruit a Secretary and a Remembrance Trustee.

All our Trustees are volunteers who work for home.

We meet regularly both virtually and face to face.

If you are interested in either role or would like more information please contact secretary@warwidows.org.uk If you are ready to take up the challenge then please download an application form from our website and return to the Secretary by 30th November 2024.

Interviews will be held in January 2025.

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The last word

Congratulations to

Laura Robbins

Congratulatio

Chair of the RAF

Chair of the RAF Widows' Association

It gives me great pleasure to inform an MBE in the King’s Birthday Hono and dedication to the Royal Air Forc

It gives me great pleasure to inform you that Laura Robbins has been awarded an MBE in the King's Birthday Honours list in recognition of her tireless service and dedication to the Royal Air Force Widows' Association. This is a well-deserved honour for a friend and colleague who is also a very popular member of the War Widows' Association. Laura constantly strives to improve the service given to our fellow widows and is selfless in her dedication and generous with her time.

I am sure you will all join me in offering Laura our sincere congratulations.

-- 47 47 --

This is collea the W strives widow genero

I am su sincere

“Never wait for the perfect moment, just take a moment and make it perfect”

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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