Sports and welfare magazine issue 8 hr

M AG A ZIN E

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I S SU E

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Contents Foreword ................................................................. 4 The Chair ............................................................... 6 Thorpe Park ............................................................ 7 Angling ................................................................... 8 Astronomy ............................................................ 10 Bows and Belles ................................................... 12 Firefighters Charity - Fright Night .......................... 14 Sea Life ................................................................ 15 Football Open Age ................................................ 16 Football over 35’s .................................................. 18 more4members ..................................................... 20 Fire Service Friendship Club ................................. 22 Madame Tussauds ................................................ 23 George Burrows Insurance .................................... 24 Rugby NEW CLUB .................................................... 29 The Heritage Group ............................................... 30 Motorbike Club NEW CLUB ...................................... 32

Contacts Sports & Welfare Fund Kate Whorton, Bimple Rana or James Moir WMFS Headquarters, 99 Vauxhall Road, Birmingham B7 4HW This Magazine is funded entirely by the Sports and Welfare Fund

Surfing Club NEW CLUB .......................................... 33 NARF .................................................................... 33 The New Alexandra Theatre .................................. 34 Running ................................................................ 38 Table Tennis ......................................................... 40 Blackpool Merlin Attractions ................................. 41 Walking and Mountaineering ................................ 42 Chessington World of Adventures ......................... 49 Legoland Windsor Resort ...................................... 50 6 Summits 2015 .................................................... 51 Warwick Castle ..................................................... 52 Wolverhampton Grand Theatre .............................. 54 West Midlands Safari Park .................................... 57 The London Dungeon ............................................ 58 Sporting Contacts ................................................ 59

Executive Committee President: Chair: Vice Chair: Treasurer: Secretary:

Phil Loach Sarah Warnes Vic Mallabar Kate Whorton Stuart Campbell 3

Foreword

I am not quite sure why I have been invited to write the foreword for the latest edition of the Sports & Welfare magazine but it is probably because I have been a member for almost sixty years!

Two of the very first events held under the FSSAA banner were organised by Sports & Welfare section members, they were the 36 mile Shropshire Six Summits Walk and The National Swimming Gala held at Stechford Baths.

Having joined the fund in 1955 my first real memory was about three years later when together with a colleague I appeared before the Sports & Welfare executive to ask for a grant of £5 towards the cost of establishing a Brigade Motoring Club, we had about 20 members who were interested in joining. We came away from the meeting empty handed feeling as if we had tried to rob a bank. Lesson learned, we made sure that our next application included clear evidence of how much money we had raised ourselves and a set of rules and objectives.

By general consent at the time, organisation of the National Swimming Gala 1970 was excellent with particular attention being paid to the well being of the competitors. Although this was in the days of manual typewriters, stencil and ink duplicators, the complete days results showing the winners of every event and final league tables were printed and handed to everyone at the baths within ten minutes of the last event. Well done the young lady from FSHQ whose skill and ingenuity achieved this.

In these early days most of the activity involved Football, Cricket and Rugby with matches being played against local teams and internal Brigade matches.

In the late sixties The Sports & Welfare Secretary was a leading member of a small group who established the Fire Services Sports & Athletics Association, whose role would be to promote and organise Sports activities throughout the United Kingdom Fire Services.

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Sports and Welfare members still organise the annual Six Summits walk each June with almost 5,000 people having taken part and still attracting about 100 entries annually.

Very few people are aware that when returning in the coach from one of the early walks I was accused of knocking out two front teeth of a young probationer. Sitting next to him on the return journey in the coach I noticed he was dozing off and twice when the driver had to brake sharply I managed to restrain his lurch forward. The third time I was too slow

and his head struck the very hard seat in front with the loss of two front teeth. Not the best timing because next morning the young man was due to appear before the Divisional Commander for his final probationer interview.

The examples I have given are just two of the many events that have been and still are organised for the benefit of members. All this activity relies on willing (usually) volunteers to give their own time expertise and enthusiasm to organise a wide spectrum of events. Our Sports & Welfare Fund Committee members also play their part in supporting the organisers.

countrywide it is fortunate that we have so many active sections.

A thriving Sports and Welfare Fund is a real asset to the Service, helping to improve morale, supporting healthy pursuits- often involving the wider community and giving leadership opportunities.

All this at very little cost to the Service.

Brian Wakefield.

What are the differences between now and sixty years ago?.

Well in those early days membership of the section was about 95% but the range of activities was small meaning that most people were not involved. Longer working hours meant that there was less time to give to other activities. Almost certainly more of the funds were spent on providing recreational goods such as darts, cards and snooker tables etc.

Nowadays the range of activities is terrific with a much wider involvement of members taking part even though the percentage in membership is much lower than in those far off early days. In addition there is the fairly new benefit providing many discounted prices to members. Bearing in mind the “climate” in so many working environments 5

The Chair It has given me great pleasure to recently accept the role of Chair for the Sports and Welfare Fund, taking over from David Johnson.

It is clear that WMFS continues to have strong links with the Sports and Welfare Fund, as I take on this new role I would like to set out my level commitment, enthusiasm and desire to see our Fund flourish.

As a previous member of this fund I have benefited from taking part in walking and swimming events that took me along the south coast and to Scotland.

Over recent years the range of benefits available through membership has grown tremendously; providing us all with real opportunities to make considerable financial savings, stretching our pay or pensions just that little bit further.

Whether this be through our website, www.more4members.co.uk, giving you savings or cashback from a huge range of retailers including Boots and B+Q or by booking our discounted tickets to West Midlands Safari Park, Drayton Manor or the Merlin

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Sarah Warnes

Entertainment attractions Alton Towers, Warwick Castle, Legoland and many many more; we should have something for everyone to enjoy, serving or retired.

Next year it will be our intention to make improvements to the services we provide. This will be done through listening to your feedback and opinions and I would ask that you use this opportunity to give us your views, we will keep you updated.

As you will see in the pages that follow our Clubs and Sections go from strength to strength. There is an open invitation to all our members to get involved, so, if you would like to try Angling, learn more about Astronomy or set up a club of your own please let us know at sportsandwelfarefund@wmfs.net With Christmas fast approaching it just remains for me to wish you and your families a very happy Christmas, enjoy the festive period and I will look forward to a prosperous 2015 for our Sports and Welfare Fund.

Sarah Warnes

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Angling As I write this article I’m just reflecting on what an excellent season we’ve had in the Angling Club, with all matches being well attended.

Matt Haines from Kings Norton White Watch has had a brilliant season winning virtually every match he’s entered. The highlight of the year has got to be Matt winning the FSSAA National Course Angling Championships at Partridge Fishery, Warrington with an impressive 136Ib of fish. This is the first win for West Mids’ since Pete Durnall held the crown in 2006 and after a few fallow years Matt has finally put us firmly back on the match fishing map.

West Mids A Team

We’ve fished many top class venues this season such as Solhampton, Hawford Bridge and Willow Marsh which have produced some bumper nets of fish, with a few double figure specimens making a welcome appearance.

Our membership just keeps going from strength to strength and I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome on board new members, Lee Dugmore, Andy Taylor, Graham Green and Steve Green. We also welcome back two old members, Carl Parry and Dave Holloway, who have found the excitement of the angling section far too difficult to break away from.

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West Mids B Team

We are a family friendly club with family members welcome to come along and fish. We’re always on the lookout for new members, so if you fancy joining us, what we can offer you is: FREE midweek fishing at two local commercial fisheries  12 matches at top class venues  A chance to compete in inter service and national competitions If you are a novice, expert or just haven’t fished for years, dust off your tackle nd come join in the fun.

Matt Crawford at willow marsh

Anyone interested in joining the club or just coming along to try out one of our matches can contact either Mark or Ken for more details.

Mark Edwards D7 Red - 07963 742836 Ken Hughes (Retired) – 07988 156014 Tight lines Mark Edwards Main image: Mick Nicklin at Hawford Bridge

Matt being presented with trophy by Dave Rees

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Astronomy It’s been another lean year for clear skies for the society.

Same as last year both of the annual star parties we attend were wash outs. Stargazing can be a very frustrating hobby!

However, if you are interested in meeting up with club members and can identify a dark site for viewing drop either me Pat Mika or the club secretary Paul Bennett a line Paul.Bennett@blueyonder.co.uk we will do our best to sort something out.

In the meantime here’s a bit of a star tour for you to get you in the mood!

What’s up in winter ?

As we orbit the Sun every winter we turn away from the Milky Way and look out of our galaxy. As it gets dark, you’ll spot the great square of Pegasus rising high in the south east. From the top left hand square, look out for the bright star Mirach.

There’s a faint star above and the same distance above will show a fuzzy spot. This is the Andromeda Galaxy, the most distant object that you can see by eye. Light from here takes 2.4 Million years to get here... Over to the north, you’ll spot the 10 10

Pat Mika

two bright stars of Gemini.

A small pair of binoculars will show the star cluster M35.

Later Gemini will rise above the winter triangle (see diagram) The three stars that make up Orion’s Belt rise dead east and set dead west. Below the belt you can spot some bright clouds which make up the Orion Nebula. Four bright stars light up this area with emissions. This material makes new stars, you are looking at a star nursery. The giant red star Betelgeuse is at the end of it’s life, bright stars being white, blue and yellow.

The belt points to Sirius of Canis Major (the big dog) the brightest star in the sky. The star Procyon shines on it’s own, being the brightest star of the little dog, Canis Minor.

In the east, look for the bright star Capella and the kite shape of Auriga, the Herdsman. Half way along the long lower kite line you’ll find three young star clusters, M36, M37 and M38 .Carry the lower line on to see The Pleiades or “Seven Sisters”, those with sharp eyes should see seven stars here (that’s your challenge). Below is another star cluster,

the Hyades or the head of Taurus (the bull) the bright red star here is Aldebaran.

A star atlas, a red torch (to preserve night vision) and a small pair of binoculars is an ideal way to observe the night sky. A reclining chair or ground sheet will give you the best views. Satellites can be seen before midnight, they reflect the Sun and don’t flash like planes.

Meteors can be seen after midnight as the Earth turns to face their impacts. Most are smaller than sand grains hard to believe when you see one shoot across the sky.

So if you are out there on a clear night over winter - look up, check out the stars, there’s so much to see!!

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Bows and Belles Friday 24th October saw the first annual ‘Bows and Belles’ Ball in memory of Graham Bow MBE, held at the 1874 Suite at Villa Park.

The Ball was an idea suggested to raise funds for the Fire Fighter’s Charity in memory of a much-loved member of the West Midlands Fire Service. Graham Bow, who was awarded an MBE by the Queen in 2007 for services to the fire brigade very sadly passed away last year, aged 60.

Graham, from Sutton Coldfield worked in the Fire Service for 24 years, and was a Station Officer at Ward End Fire Station until he retired due to debilitating rheumatoid arthritis.

Despite this, Graham gave outstanding commitment to raising awareness and funds for the Fire Fighters Charity over many years. He was always enthusiastic and determined to do all he could to progress the charity, and assisted by his loving wife Lynn, he ran the successful charity merchandise shop at Sutton Coldfield Fire Station. His constant support and fundraising for the charity made him hugely respected by all who knew him. As well as his tireless work for the Fire Fighters Charity, Graham was also an active member of the National Association of Retired Firefighters, and volunteered as their national registration secretary.

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Back in February, a small committee of volunteers including Graham’s wife Lynn and his son Russell met at Perry Barr Fire Station for the first of many meetings to plan the fundraising ball, and ‘Bows and Belles’ was born! Ade Caulwell from Tamworth who is a Watch Commander, based at the Station chaired the meetings and was joined by Bill Gough , Steve Corbett, Mick Woodley, Sue Mills, Rose Jones, Tim Woodfield and the Fire Fighters Charity regional volunteer fundraiser Dave Smith.

The 250 tickets sold out more or less straight away, with Graham’s family, friends and colleagues eager to attend, and many local businesses and supporters donated fantastic raffle prizes. Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner, accompanied by the clarinets and saxophone ensemble from the Band of the West Midlands Fire Service. Bryan Brindley a serving Crew Commander at Tamworth Fire Station performed a Robbie Williams tribute act and Tim Woodfield did a comedy set, all entertained without charging any fees. Guests then danced the night away through to the early hours!

“The ball was a huge success and everyone had a wonderful time. It was a real celebration of Graham’s life, with his photograph on the large screen outside of Villa Park, and video screens inside the venue showing the presentation of his MBE and other achievements and moments throughout his time in the Fire Service, and with his family. Graham was a true inspiration and we hope that the enthusiasm and energy we have had this year will continue in the years to come, in his memory and for the charity he dedicated over 30 years of his life to supporting.”

The committee were recently delighted to hand a cheque for the sum of £4000 to Dave Smith representing the Fire Fighters Charity.

Dave said, “It fills me with a huge sense of pride that I accepted the Bows and Belles cheque in memory of Graham Bow MBE, on behalf of The Fire Fighters Charity.

Graham Bow MBE was a dear friend and fundraising colleague, whose untimely death was a shock to everyone who knew him and is sadly missed by his family, The Fire Fighters Charity and his friends and colleagues.

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I was extremely thankful to the members of the Bows and Belles Committee who invited me to attend the initial committee meeting not only as The Fire Fighters Charity representative but also as a close friend of Graham and Lynn. Being a friend of Grahams for over 20 years meant that I was able to support the committee to ensure his fundraising legacy lived on through the Committee.

Graham’s integrity and fundraising tenacity will no doubt live on through the annual Bows and Belles event in his memory and at the same time raising funds for The Fire Fighters Charity. The funds raised will go towards supporting serving, retired fire service personnel as well as their dependents to enable rehabilitation following injury, illness, stress or bereavement. The Fire Fighters Charity is the UK’s leading provider that will enhance the quality of life for serving and retired fire service personnel and their families. The Fire Fighters Charity vision is to make a positive difference by supporting people in the fire and rescue community when they are in need.�

To find out more about the work that The Fire Fighters Charity does in support of the fire service and rescue community please visit www.firefighterscharity.org.uk

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Football Open Age 2014/15 season

UK Cup-WMFS v Essex (won 2-0)

After finishing last season on a high we were keen to carry on our 2014/15 campaign in the same way,

We defiantly started off were we finished last season!

This season we have managed to secure the Tally Ho sports club (West Midlands Police) as our home ground and with a good group of committed players on board everyone was looking forward to the upcoming season, again the draws were not in our favour drawing a strong Essex team in the UK Cup and London in the English Cup.

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All photos: © John McNaughton

Although with several key players missing and players out of position we produced a superb display again.

The back four combination of Bayliss /Field /Hazell/Butler marshalled by the impressive Knott in goal produced their fourth clean sheet in a row!!

We seemed to control the game from start to finish against a strong Essex team.

A special mention has to go to Coops / Robson who played upfront and gave the Essex back four a torrid time.

The centre mid pairing of six footers Nathan Rea/Andy Partridge battled hard allowing the other’s to play and the rock that was Rowan Hazell all eventually made way for myself and old timer’s Chrissy White and Richard Anderson who not only doubled the average age of the players on the pitch but fitted straight in and played some excellent football.

The WMFS goals came from a great finish by man of the match, Ian Wroe and an own goal - which Steve Bayliss is still trying to claim!

UK cup – WMFS v Northern Ireland (lost 5-2) We all knew going into this game it was going to be one of the toughest tests we’ve had in a long time and again not being able to call on the same players due to leave etc it’s proving very tricky to manage a settled side.

The visitors did not disappoint with a first half display that led them into the interval four nil up! Northern Ireland had four chances and buried every one of them, all very similar goals.

Second half was a massive improvement with some great football being played by all. Steven Robson latched on to a bouncing ball outside the area which he dispatched in the bottom left, this was followed by a great solo effort from Ian Wroe who cut in and bent a superb effort around the keeper.

A great response from the lads showing some great character and pride up to the final whistle, man of the match Iain Hughes.

Although disappointed to be out of the UK cup there is still a lot to play for this year, a game against London in the English cup then attempting to retain the Regional Cup. If anyone is interested in joining the WMFS open age team please get in touch Also a massive thank you to Graham Homer/Andrew Powell for there continued support.

Adam Williams

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Football over 35’s With last season being a disappointing one, getting knocked out early in both cups, we are hoping this season will fare much better!

The addition of new players always helps, and this has already shown with a great win in an organised friendly game against Hereford and Worcester.

Stuart Few (goal keeper) and Adam Kendall (defence) were both making their debuts and both had great games.

A good performance all round resulted in a 4-0 win with goals from Toby Shakespeare, Andy Powell, Jez Boxley and Adam Kendall.

We just needed to build on this for our first cup game against Hampshire, played on the 16th October at the Tally Ho sports ground.

We went into this game with a few injuries but still fielding a very strong squad.

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Hampshire were equally strong and this showed as they took control of the game in the first 30 minutes; we were trying to force the game, giving the ball away, putting ourselves under pressure instead of holding the ball and slowing down play; resulting in us conceding a goal and deservedly so.

This did us a favour; from that point on we picked up our game, creating space and utilising the pace we had up front turning the game in our favour.

Half time came and after a good team talk and a few changes we dominated from the off, our forward line and midfielders causing problems for their defence.

After another good move and cross into the box and Chris White headed a well deserved equaliser.

This was quickly followed by another great move with Phil Price and Andy Powell in the build up and Chris Gauntlet finishing with a great strike.

The fitness of our team was showing now and opened up the game with Dale Roberts making timely runs assisted by man of the match John Chamberlain.

To wrap up the game Kev Riley hit a 25 yard strike which was a fantastic effort resulting in a 3-1 win and overall a solid performance, with the defensive duo of Kendall and Boxley holding Hampshire at Bay. After a great result in the last round our next fixture against East Sussex was eagerly anticipated and didn’t disappoint.

We fielded a strong side and this showed as we dominated from the off.

This opened the flood gates and with great play all over the pitch and a solid defence the goals started to rattle in.

A delightful hatrick off Dicky Anderson, a brace from Dale Roberts and Chico and goals from Wright, White and Boxley sealed an emphatic 10-0 win and an overall fantastic performance with all players putting in a Stirling effort.

From my point of view it was a great game to play in and our best run out for a couple of seasons. Roll on the next game.

Andrew Powell

Lots of possession and good movement off the ball with Dicky Anderson and Kev Riley causing problems up front.

This soon came to show with us going 1-0 up with Dale Roberts lashing home a great strike after some good link play.

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Friends h

club

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FIRE SERVICE FRIENDSHIP CLUB

The holiday in October was at the TLH Leisure Centre in Torquay.

There were forty three members present one of whom was lucky enough to win a prize in one of the draws. This was an All Inclusive Break (free bar), which was great value for money.

Everyone enjoyed themselves immensely.

Our last event for 2014 is to the Alexandra Theatre in December to see Jersey Boys.

The Club extends an invitation to anyone who would like to come along and find out more at any of our Coffee Mornings.

You will all be made most welcome…

For any additional information please telephone Margaret Stanton on 0121 - 458 -7711 Finally can I wish everyone a “VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR”.

The Programme of Events and Holidays for 2015 has already been completed.

These consist of holidays/day trips and the usual meetings at Safeside throughout the year.

Our first Coffee Morning is at Safeside on Thursday 19th February 2015, followed by a three day Mystery Trip, which is also in February.

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Lucky prize winner Lisa

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How has the RAC performed for the West Midlands Fire Service Sports & Welfare Fund group insurance scheme?

RAC have been providing motor breakdown assistance to members of the Sports & Welfare Fund group insurance scheme since November 2012. Arranged by our insurance partners George Burrows, the RAC cover has continued to prove an invaluable element of the scheme.

2014 has been a very challenging year for the RAC with weather patterns that fluctuated from floods in the early part of the year through to high demand for breakdown service in June and July because of hot weather conditions.

RAC have attended 76 West Midlands Fire Service scheme member breakdowns, with the following performance results:  61% of the vehicles were fixed at the roadside by RAC patrols. This means they were driven away following the breakdown without the need to be taken to a garage for repairs or without incurring labour costs for the repairs - saving an average £83* in garage repair costs.  12 vehicles were recovered with the average recovery distance mileage of 38 miles.

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 The average time taken to arrive at the scene of the breakdown was 47 minutes. This is taken from the time the telephone call is answered at the breakdown centre.  Out of the 76 breakdowns attended, 55 Sports & Welfare Fund scheme members took part in a survey at the roadside and scored the overall service at 94%.

It certainly brings peace of mind to know that we have the full range of RAC options for our members: Roadside, Recovery, At Home, Onward Travel and even European Motoring Assistance.

Additional services RAC is a company synonymous with motor rescue in the UK and unlike contractor based breakdown services they continually strive to provide an ‘all round’ service. In 2012 they conducted a pilot which identified that more than 30% of vehicles checked had low oil levels and more than 3% had critically low levels. Following this they now carry out oil level checks for all customers. This service alone can help prevent costly damage to your engine!

Did you know that the RAC provides an online battery service via its website:

www.rac.co.uk?

The aim of this service is to give motorists who want to purchase a battery a choice of whether they want the battery delivered to them, or indeed arrange to have it fitted at a location/day/time of their choice. To utilise the service, simply fill in your registration number and you will be guided through the service. This does not replace the breakdown service offered at the roadside if a battery is deemed to be faulty.

RAC Fuel Patrols RAC has 29 of its own branded fuel patrol vans and they are supported by over 140 contractors nationally who carry out fuel drains after customers mis-fuel their vehicles. Once a fuel drain is carried out, RAC dispose of the fuel in an environmentally friendly manner and the fuel is then recycled.

RAC’s fix rate is currently 100% for this service.

RAC Tyre Vans You may not be aware that an increasing number of new cars are being produced without a spare wheel. RAC has introduced 10 tyre vans into its fleet to support their patrol network nationally. A stock of competitively priced tyres are kept on board and RAC tyre fitters are able to carry out a wheel change and wheel balance where required, either at your home or place of work. RAC have pledged to increase the number of tyre vans in line with growing demand.

In addition to RAC motor breakdown cover, the Sports & Welfare Fund group insurance scheme includes £100,000 life assurance, with 20% advance of benefit in cases of terminal prognosis, the Best Doctors®

expert second medical opinion service and family Legal Expenses cover – all for just £16.88* per month. Cover is also available for partners at additional premium.

If you would like further information about the scheme or an application to join please contact Member Services on: 0121 380 6952 or call George Burrows on: 01403 327719, email: info@georgeburrows.com The scheme performance statistics and additional services information have been provided

by RAC. * £83 average saving per repair is based on the typical costs of repairs of ICAD deployed members and takes the average labour repair time required at a garage in which to perform the repair.(Information supplied by RAC) **The premium is subject to periodic review and may go up or down.

Full details of the cover included in this scheme and the conditions that apply can be found in the policy wordings which are available to view from Membership Services.

George Burrows is a trading name of Heath Lambert Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: The Walbrook Building, 25 Walbrook, London EC4N 8AW. Registered in England and Wales. Company Number: 1199129. Part of the Arthur J. Gallagher group.

Provided by RAC Motoring Services Registered No 01424399 and/or RAC Insurance Ltd Registered No 2355834. Registered in England; Registered Offices: RAC House, Brockhurst Crescent, Walsall WS5 4AW. RAC Motoring Services is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. RAC Insurance Ltd is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

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N CL EW U B

Rugby

After what seemed an age WMFS Rugby Football Club is back with a bang!!!

On Sunday the 23rd November we played our first game as a newly reformed team against Walsall RFC Captained by Ben Cluroe and vice captain Jak Ryan.

The team, some of whom had never met and some had never even played rugby before, turned up and after an introduction a quick warm up and running through the basics - kick off was here!

In what can only be described as trench like conditions our boys dug in. It was a battle from the off with both sides very physical and an unforgiving pace of game was set.

An early try from the ‘Mids’ built confidence and we capitalised with another following a well worked line out steal from Jak Ryan that was driven over by the forwards using the experience of Gerriant Tilliot, David Hickman, Si Hall, Rik Topham and Ben Cluroe it was a gruelling effort from the pack!

Walsall hit back with impressive tries of their own using the old headed pack to drive ‘Mids’ back and touchdown; testing our newly formed team.

However true to the nature of our work we showed real grit and determination and went to task with some impressive down field kicks from Alex Yates applying pressure we were in place to attack.

With minutes to go a well drilled try led by rugby veteran Kevin Pitt saw the ball swiftly move through the backs being scored in the corner by the full back securing the game.

A well earned victory and a huge credit to all the lads who turned up to take on the challenge!

A real a achievement from the West Mids’ underdogs and a day to be proud of!!!

A special well done to the newer players Greg Mellor, Sam Baylley, Gary Smith, Dan Bebbington and Jase O’Callaghan.

We have up coming fixtures in January, do you fancy giving it a try!? Contact us for more information, get involved.

Any level welcome!!!

Ben Cluroe, Highgate Blue Watch

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The Heritage Group The Heritage Group have had a busy time since the last issue.

With the hundredth anniversary of the start of the Great War in August the group arranged a display to commemorate the members of Birmingham Fire Brigade who, being ex forces, were still in the Army & Navy Reserve, and were called up for action.

Eighty four members of Birmingham Fire Brigade joined the colours and eight made the ultimate sacrifice.

Losing so many men to the forces left the Brigade short handed and some of those left received criticism that they were cowards, this resulted in the Brigade issuing a Birmingham Fire Brigade lapel badge.

Eventually, an agreement was reached that only those joining up would be allowed to leave the Brigade.

The display features a Roll Of Honour and photographs with details of those who died.

There are also details & photographs of those five who won medals for their actions.

The display is currently in Fire Service Headquarters lobby to mark Remembrance Day but it has also been taken to ‘Birmingham Lives Local History Fair’, ‘The First World War Exhibition’ at Nechells Green & the ‘Brum-Brum History & Memorabilia Fair’ in Moseley. The display has been well received and well worth the effort.

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The museum at Aston has been enlarged - and reorganised to accommodate new items. One of these is the gas lamp that used to stand outside the main station in the Priory, which for sometime was displayed at the Academy. Some of the other heritage items from the Academy have also been given to the museum.

Don’t forget if you would like to visit or have something you would like to donate please get in touch with us at heritage.group@wmfs.net or leave a message on the phone on 0121 380 6071.

Ian Forrester

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Calling all Wild Hogg’s, Hairy Bikers or Marques and Rossi Wannabes; Its time to dust off your leathers; squeeze into them, and then go and buy an XXXL!!

Dig your pride and joy out of the garage from under all the junk you’ve saved (because you thought it might come in handy one day!).

Wash and polish your mean machine because YOU are going to need it if you’re interested in meeting like minded Bike owners past and present; serving or retired.

The aim is to hold regular Weekend Ride outs throughout the year using preset routes which are normally completed by mid afternoon including a coffee break and snack (Full English), after meeting at a central location.

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EW B N U CL

Motorbike Club

And if there is enough interest, trips further a field 1 or 2 night stay overs, for example Wales, Scotland etc.

Maybe abroad who knows!

So if you’re out there riding already and want some company, or haven’t done it for a while and have been looking for an excuse to see if you’ve still got what it takes just get in touch, phone or email and register your interest; lets see what we can do.

Dave Burnham Sheldon Green Watch 0121 380 7522 david.burnham@wmfs.net

Hi All,

EW B N U CL

Surf Club

Are there any keen surfers out there?

Would anyone like to get involved with a new Surf Club?

NARF

The NARF office at Erdington has been a busy place lately with preparations for our various Borough Christmas Dinners and widows gifts. The latest newsletter was also put out recently and members and widows should have it by now.

There are plenty of great surf breaks in the UK, and with the right equipment you can surf all year round. Surfing is a fairly simple sport to learn and has a great social scene - the whole culture of surfing revolves around meeting people who share a passion for the ocean. For the more experienced surfers of the Midlands it can often be a lonely journey down the M5 for dawn patrol, and having one or two people to share the petrol costs is definitely a bonus. Trips will range between day long jaunts to a couple of days away and hopefully we can mix in some other sports too, if there is any interest.

At the office the Birmingham Boroughs helpers gathered to prepare the Christmas parcels for their widows. Amongst the helpers was Lynn Bow so the Birmingham Committee took the opportunity to unveil a plaque and photograph of Graham to mark his hard work for the Association both locally and nationally over a number of years. The tribute now stands in pride of place in the lobby to our office.

No equipment is necessary as it is my anticipation that all gear will be rented (TBC).

The ladies putting together this years Birmingham Borough Christmas Parcels.

If you fancy getting involved or would like to discuss your ideas for a new club please get in touch with me; Simon D’Arcy Purple Watch Ladywood

Lynn Bow unveiling Graham’s plaque at the Erdington Office.

L to R. Freda Carpenter, Lynn Bow, Valerie Forrester, Margaret Stanton, Barbara Starks, Margaret Way, Janet Mathews & Dot Downes.

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Running

AdiĂłs a mis amigos This will be my last article (I can hear people cheering, thank goodness) as I intend to retire next year. I would like to say a big thank you to all who have taken part and supported me over the years, making it a truly memorable experience.

I have come into contact with a lot of great people both in this Brigade and others all of them with similar interests at heart, enthusiasm for running and being part of the Fire Service.

On the 12th October the 39th historic National Fire Services Cross Country Championship took place at the National Trust gardens at Stow in Buckinghamshire. This was well attended with the exception of our Brigade.

Unfortunately with changing staffing levels nobody could get the time off to compete, I was on rota and was the only person from this Brigade to take part. I came 9th overall and 1st in my age group which was a great way to finish my running career as a serving member of the Fire Service.

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Next year will mark the 40th anniversary of this historic race and it may be the last!

Eddie Gutteridge the chief organiser has implied it might be a good time to retire. So for those of you who have considered competing in the past and have not yet done so next year may be your last chance.

On going at the moment is the Mid week cross country league.

The league which is organised by West Midlands Police consists of ten races being held at various locations in the Midlands during the cross country season (October to the end of March) The courses range from 5 miles to just over 7 miles; Some being very challenging, Cannock Chase being one of them or you could try the Tally Ho course which is flat.

Out of ten races it is the teams’ best seven collective scores

which are added together and the team with the highest number of points wins. You need six runners for a team.

If there is not enough for a team you can still run individually and as the team event seven of your best collective scores are added together to give you an overall ranking within the series.

The races are listed here so if you fancy having a go it’s just a case of turn up on the day and run, 14:00hrs prompt start.

MIDLANDS POLICE/SERVICES CROSS COUNTRY LEAGUE 2014 – 2015 FIXTURES (2pm start unless otherwise stated) Wednesday 10th December

Services League (4)

Bradgate Park

Wednesday 17th December

Services League (5)

Venue TBC

2015 Wednesday 21st January

Services League (6)

Northampton

(Incorporated within Eric Humphries race) Wednesday 11th February

Services League (7)

Venue TBC

(Incorporating regional Police champs) Wednesday 25th February

Services League (8)

Venue TBC

Wednesday 18th March

Services League (9)

Hewell Grange

Wednesday 25th March

Services League (10)

Tally Ho!

Hope to see you there.

So here is wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a sporting New Year.

As the Running Section co-ordinator for the Sports and Welfare Fund this is a good opportunity to now advertise my position!!

I hope someone will step forward to take over!

Yours in sports, Kevin Monk.

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Table Tennis Would anyone out there be interested in joining?

We play in the Birmingham ETTA league (summer and winter) and play other teams from all over Birmingham at different venues. We use Sutton Coldfield Fire Station as our Home fixture and normally play on Wednesday evenings.

We are about to start our 3rd winter season and are currently in division 2 summer league and division 4 winter league.

We need more players! Are you interested?

Please contact Mike Jervis at Aston Green Watch, Ian Nash at Oldbury Blue or Janet Mathews at Headquarters for further information.

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Walking & Mountaineering Mark Phillips

This year has seen members of the walking club having some adventurous outings.

A warm welcome to our two new members, Gary Yendell and Sam Pink.

We started the year with a winter walk in Beddgelert, Wales and have had a number of trips to the lakes to bag some Wainwrights. There has also been a local trip to the Long Mynd in Shropshire.

Membership of the WMFS Walking and Mountaineering Club is open to all serving and retired employees of WMFS providing they are members of the Sports and Welfare Fund. All levels of ability and experience are welcome

The last planned trip of the year is in early December, for a night’s wild camping in the Eastern Fells.

Our membership fee is ÂŁ5.

Preparation has started for the 2015 Six Summits event, which will be held in early June. Look out for the posters on stations. Application forms for the event will be available on the Sports and Welfare Fund Facebook page.

Membership forms can be downloaded from the Sports and Welfare/Walking and Mountaineering Facebook page.

For further information, please contact me at Mark.Phillips1@wmfs.net Mark Phillips

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West Midlands Fire Service Walking and Mountaineering Club

The Kentmere Horseshoe The Lake District boasts an impressive collection of high level horseshoe ridge-walks that cannot be matched by any other area of England. Having completed the Fairfield Horseshoe earlier in the year, we decided to undertake the Kentmere Horseshoe.

The group consisted of Ed Jones, Karl Perry, Mark Phillips, Rory Campbell and new members Gary Yendell and Sam Pink.

Our route started at the Kentmere village church, picking up the Garburn pass, an old packhorse route, that allowed us to gain height quickly and before long we could see the obvious ridge towards our first summit of Yoke.

Continuing north we followed the easy slopes up to the col and then up the rockier flanks of Ill Bell, which has three cairns, two of which are close together and compete for the honour of being the highest.

We followed the path North West and down the stony slopes before a uphill slog brought us to Froswicks compact summit.

The impressive beacon of Thornthwaite crag beckoned. After admiring the stunning views we continued on the main path to reach High Street. This was the highest point of the walk at 2,176ft and marked the start of the return leg.

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Passing the head of Blea water and over Mardale Ill Bell we dropped down into the col and the stone shelter for lunch.

Rejoining the path we climbed up to Harter fell, the last major ascent. The flat grassy plateau of a summit has a cairn spiked with old iron fence posts.

After having fine weather all day, the sky darkened and it began to rain. Fortunately the walking was easy with a steady pull over Kentmere Pike and a simple descent to Shipman Knotts.

The route covered 13 miles and bagged 9 Wainwrights and 7 Hewitts.

Mark Phillips

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Church Stretton Walk Report Sunday 21st September Church Stretton and the Long Mynd It was a glorious sunny day in Church Stretton, when four members met up for a 10 mile circular walk around the Long Mynd, taking in the village of Ratlinghope, before returning by way of the Carding Mill Valley.

Andrew Savage led the walk with some skillful map reading, accompanied by Mark Phillips, Rory and Dan Campbell.

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Leaving the town, the first couple of miles saw us dodging golf balls as we set off on a path across the local golf course, before heading north around Haddon Hill, with spectacular views across Ragleth Hill, Caer Caradoc and The Lawley.

Pressing on across the Long Mynd, we climbed Betchcott Hill before turning to head west along the Golden Valley, following the route of the Darnford Brook and eventually into the remote village of Ratlinghope, with its campsite and pretty village church.

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After restraining Dan from trying out the church organ, we enjoyed a lunch break in the porch, before heading south along quiet country lanes and once more climbing up the grassy ridge of the Long Mynd.

the top of the Long Mynd ridge, before dropping down through quiet pathways to the Light Spout waterfalls and finally, into the Carding Mill Valley, with its tea room delights of lardy cakes and bread and butter puddings.

Andrew’s navigating prowess was only heightened by a no doubt, deliberate foray into the farmyard at Belmore Farm, where the friendly farmer asked us if we would like to have a look round his house and visit his ailing sister while we were there. Tempting as the offer was, we declined and regrouped on the proper path leading to

Sadly, this was Andrew’s last outing with the club, as he leaves us for a new career in WM Ambulance Service, where we wish him all the best for the future.

Rory Campbell

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This years’ Shropshire Six Summits challenge walk took place on Saturday June 14th.

We had 96 entrants, of which 60 made it through the 36 miles and 8000ft of accent to the finish at Titterstone Clee.

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If you fancy a go next year, it’s on Saturday June 13th 2015.

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Thanks again to Mark Phillips and Stuart Campbell for their support before, during and after the event. Thanks also to David Miller for ongoing support with our graphics, including the walkers’ discs and certificates. Thanks to all marshals for supporting the walkers at the check points. A brilliant effort by all to make the walk safe for everyone.

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There are a few ideas I’d like to discuss with Mark and Stuart over a pint, in order for the 2015 event to be even smoother still. However, with each year throwing in unique problems, it’s hard to plan for anything!!

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However, meeting new people and seeing the camaraderie they form with other walkers along the way is great. Seeing a good turn out from Brigade personnel again this year was encouraging. I hope to build on this further.

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Each year brings its own problems from an organisers view point. Trying to dash across Shropshire to the next check point, whilst attempting to find a couple of retirees who aren’t sure where they are is always difficult. Shropshires distinct lack of phone reception is a key problem within this situation.

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The weather was mixed. Fine walking conditions were permanently threatened by rain clouds, which at times did unfortunately provide a few showers.

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Corndon Hill .............................................................. 513m Stiperstones ............................................................... 536m Long Mynd ................................................................. 516m Caer Caradoc ........................................................... 459m Brown Clee ................................................................ 540m Titterstone Clee ......................................................... 533m Distance Walked 36 Miles (58 Kilometers) Total Height Ascended 6500 ft (2200 metres) For further information please contact: Ed Jones Email: sixsummits@hotmail.com or phone: 07793 509308 Mark Phillips Email: sixsummits@hotmail.com

Sporting Contacts Walking & Mountaineering

Mark Phillips

Aston Red Watch

Mark.Phillips@wmfs.net

Rory Campbell

Retired

Rory.Campbell@gmail.com

West Midlands Fire Service Walking and Mountaineering Club Ed Jones

Woodgate Valley Red Watch

Edward.jones@wmfs.net

Andy Powell

Billesley Blue Watch

Andrew.Powell@wmfs.net

Adam Williams

Oldbury Red Watch

adam.williams@wmfs.net

Richard Anderson

Ladywood Green Watch

richard.anderson@wmfs.net

Football (vets)

Christopher Gauntlet

Hay Mills Green Watch

Christopher.Gauntlet@wmfs.net

Golf

Shaun Messer

Fire Safety

Shaun.messer@wmfs.net

Ken Hughes

Retired

07988 156014

Mark Edwards

D7 Tipton Red Watch

Mark.Edwards@wmfs.net

Running

Kevin Monk

Cradley Blue Watch

Kevin.Monk@wmfs.net

Rugby

Ben Cluroe

Highgate Blue Watch

Benjamin.cluroe@wmfs.net

Astronomy

Pat Mika

FSHQ

Pat.Mika@wmfs.net

Table Tennis

Mick Jervis

Aston Green Watch

michael.jervis@wmfs.net

Football (open age)

www.wmfsgolf.co.uk Angling

Janet Matthews

0121 308 6030 59

Editor It has been another busy, successful year for the Sports and Welfare Fund.

2014 has seen members taking advantage of our ticket deals across a broad range of attractions. The ever popular Drayton Manor Theme Park and West Midlands Safari Park tickets continue to sell well with payments taken direct from your salaries and pensions; Merlin Entertainment attractions are also hugely popular with great discounts on days out at Alton Towers, Legoland, Sea Life Centres and much much more!

Thanks to your feedback we are working on different ways to access your Merlin attraction tickets; much of your feedback has centred on the time it takes to book these discounts. It may be possible for us to sell tickets to the biggest Merlin attractions direct to you and take payment from your salaries and pensions, we will keep you informed and see what we can do ready for the new season!

What else can we look forward to in 2015?

Our website is being built and will go live next year along 2

Stuart Campbell

with the overdue launch of our Twitter account; keeping you up to date with our latest deals, events and news.

Facebook continues to provide regular updates and we are keen to build on these successes into the New Year, why not take a look at our Flickr page for photographs of members in action and then keep your eyes peeled for details of our new coach trips, great days out with your work mates, friends or families; details in the New Year…

We want you all to be involved with your Sports and Welfare Fund and appreciate your feedback, ideas and comments; please if you want to get involved or feel there is something we should be doing to improve our service or benefits just get in touch and let us know; email stuart.campbell@wmfs.net OR sportsandwelfarefund@wmfs.net And finally, Merry Christmas to you all! enjoy the festivities… © West Midlands Fire Service Marketing 2014 1415•189