March/April 2018 Edition
PUNCHlines INSIDE
YOUR SPRING GUIDE TO GERMANY UNIT NEWS AFF ROADSHOW QUESTIONS ANSWERED
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1 PWRR ALLIED SPIRIT VIII 06/03/2018 14:06
THE NEW JAGUAR E-PACE
DRIVE LIKE EVERYONE’S WATCHING
For further information, please contact us: Head Office Jaguar Land Rover Military Sales, Kronberg im Taunus, 06173 3271-214, agarnell@jaguarlandrover.com Nigel Palin / Steve Key, Paderborn, 05254 935 00 -15/-22/-23, nigel.palin@grantandgreen.de / steve.key@grantandgreen.de
Official fuel consumption figures for the E-PACE R-DYNAMIC D150 FWD MANUAL 110 kW (150 PS) in l/100km (mpg): Urban 50.4 (5.6), Extra urban 67.3 (4.2), Combined 60.1 (4.7). CO2 emissions g/km: 129. Drive responsibly on and off-road. Image includes optional equipment.
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The Iron Fist of the Iron Division
Brigadier Mike Elviss Commander I 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade
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et me open this first edition of Punchlines in 2018 by wishing all of you serving with the mighty 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade a Happy New Year! I trust that you enjoyed a well-earned break with family and friends over Christmas and returned to work refreshed and ready for the challenges we will face together in 2018. Last year was a year of firsts for the Iron Fist. We were the Army’s first Vanguard Armoured Infantry Brigade and the first Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Land) to reach full operating capability within NATO. I want to build on this success and seek to sustain our readiness for warfighting through 2018. The world remains a volatile place and we need to be ready to respond fast should the call to action come. 2018 will therefore be another exciting year. The Brigade Headquarters has already been re-validated for warfighting as part of Exercise SPECULAR and our units are already providing critical training support to our sister brigades. In
March the Brigade Headquarters, 1 PWRR and elements from across the Brigade will deploy to Fort Bragg, USA on Exercise WARFIGHTER to be tested as part of the Iron Division within the context of a US Army Corps. 4 SCOTS are about to send a company to the Falkland Islands, and the RDG, 5 RIFLES and 4 SCOTS all have people standing by to support UK contingency operations as part of Operation TEMPERER. Looking forward to 29th June 2018 we will exercise our Freedom of Paderborn by marching through our home city with bayonets fixed under the Colours of our fine and historic regiments and battalions. The event will celebrate the British Army’s unique links with Paderborn and will be followed the next day on 30th June 2018 by a great British Summer Fête to bring our whole community together for what should be a great party. Thereafter, we will look to the future and begin the move back to the United Kingdom. See you soon!
Punchlines Magazine is produced by the BFG Information Office Design, copy and photography: Kathryn Bracey, Loreta Dimech-Mencattelli punchlines.magazine@gmail.com 0049 (0)5254 982 2105
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A School for every boy and girl
CHALLENGE
Taunton School is a co-educational independent school set in a 56 acre campus in Somerset, for pupils aged 6 months - 18 years, with boarding available from age 7. Forces families pay from £459 per term (Years 3-4) up to £825 per term for full boarding in the senior school, plus CEA. Our outstanding facilities and huge range of co-curricular activities on offer results in an enriched experience for our students and prepares them for life.
NURTURE
Discover Taunton School at our Whole School Open Morning on Saturday 3rd February, 09:30 - 12:30. Or contact us to arrange a personal visit to suit you: registrar@tauntonschool.co.uk. Don’t forget to ask us about TS One2One, holiday flexibility and transport support.
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Follow us @TauntonSchool
INSPIRE 06/03/2018 14:06
C o nte nts
MARCH/APRIL 2018 EDITION
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FLASHBACK TO 2017
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CARNIVAL
IN THIS EDITION
ON THE COVER
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UNIT NEWS Find out what they have all been up to.
26 YOUR SPRING GUIDE TO GERMANY
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FITNESS FUN FOR FAMILIES A fun day for all of the family. They learnt about fun ways to stay healthy.
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Get to know the festivals and activites for you to enjoy this Easter in Germany.
40 DASHAIN A look at the Dashain celebration held in Bielefeld.
BRITEN IN WESTFALEN Find out about the amazing 42 exhibition in Paderborn.
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AFF ROADSHOW Your questions answered.
IN EVERY ISSUE Welfare Details Library Useful Contact Numbers Puzzle Page
TELL US YOUR STORY
Thank you to all the units for supplying their stories to us. Are you organising an event? We love hearing your stories and sharing them with the Punchlines readers. For images and stories with impact, consider some of these simple tips.
The next deadline is 13 April. Email punchlines.magazine @gmail.com
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We require images to be submitted at a resolution of 300dpi to be suitable for print. You can check this on your camera or smartphone if in doubt most phones have a ‘high quality’ setting.
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HITTING THE SLOPES
Be aware of what is in the background of your picture. Is there a plant or a lampshade growing out of someone’s head?
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Do the people in your photo agree for it to be used in Punchlines? If in doubt, ask!
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If possible, send your pictures as jpg attachments rather than embedding them in the body of an email or word document which can reduce their quality.
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Write in the third person. Try to include a quotation from the event organiser.
Try to keep the article between 150-200 words.
In the first paragraph set the scene using the 5 W’S - Where, When, Why, Who and What.
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Serpent’s Retreat
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Comma nde the Ser r 20X opening pent’s Dempse Retreat on y Bar ra cks
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Ex DIAMOND ANNAPURNA GAUNTLET 17
Ex DIAMOND ANNAPURNA GAUNTLET 17 was a Level 3 Adventurous Training expedition to the Himalaya mountain range, Nepal, over the period 13 Oct – 03 Nov 17. The expedition introduced a team of 14 personnel from HQ 20 AI Bde to high altitude trekking and mountaineering in a remote environment. Here is an account by Cpl Graham. Kathmandu to Besiahar We landed in Kathmandu Airport on Sat 14 Oct 17, we were warmly welcomed by Mr Ashok, the trekking agency and Singh our Head Guide who kindly gave us freshly made garlands. We had a few days to acclimatize before we started trekking. During this time we visited Patan Durbar Square, Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath and the Monkey Temple. It was a really interesting learning about the culture and heritage of Nepal. We also saw the damage that was caused due to the Earthquake that hit in 2015. Besisahar to Saynge We travelled for 10 hours due to bad traffic, road conditions and problems with our coach. We were then briefed on what was happening the next day by our Head Guide Singh.
all taken back by how beautiful it looked. A total distance of 7km was covered as we reached Chyamje. Chyamje to Dharapani Chyamje to Dharapani was approximately six hours of walking. Throughout the day we saw plenty of lovely waterfalls, each one slightly different from the other. On arrival to Dharapani we headed straight for the hot springs. Though not quite what I expected, many of the lads still went for a dip! Chyamje to Lower Pisang On route we tasted (in my opinion) the best samosa and apples in Nepal. We had an introduction to Nepalese snooker which was very interesting, but we found out we were not very good at this game apart from Sgt Gurung who was the expert. Lower Pisang to Manang We had a long trek in the morning; on route we came across a small pond with crystal clear blue water which we all admired its beauty.
We had to drive for approximately two and a half hours in a 4x4 jeep. This drive was definitely not for anyone who gets travel sick! We managed to squeeze nine people into one vehicle, which is fully legal in Nepal.
Manange to Khangsar From Manang we only had a small trek to Khangsar, once here we had to acclimatize. This meant we made an incline of 300 metres and stayed there for one hour. The views were stunning and in the forefront we could see Manang.
Saynge to Chyamje As recommended by the Restaurant owner we headed off to see a nearby waterfall, the sight was just amazing we were
Manang to Tilicho Base Camp During this journey we had to walk through landslide areaswhich for some were a bit nerve wracking.
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I have never experienced anything near as good as this and am privileged I got the opportunity to take part in this Expedition.
The landscape changed from green hills to barren land with little vegetation. There were also plenty of mountain goats moving around the area.
we had to catch a plane to Pokhara. The plane was so tiny (fitting only 20 people inside) and we could see the mountain peaks below us, again, the views were amazing.
We had an early start, waking up at 0430 hours as we set of to see the highest fresh water lake in the world. The sight was just out of this world. For me this was the highlight of the whole trek. I couldn’t believe the beauty and how amazing the view was. I will never forget the feeling when we came over the top of the hill and could see the view of the lake.
While in Pokhara we visited the World Peace Pagoda and the International Mountain Museum. Compared to Kathmandu, Pokhara has a lot less pollution and congestion. During our time here we even managed to squeeze in a 5 aside football game which we won convincingly. Sgt Gurung also kindly invited us to his house for lunch, which was very nice. His all his family were so welcoming.
Tilicho Base Camp to Thorang-La phedi Base camp to Muktinah After passing back down by Tilicho Base Camp we moved onto Shree Kharka guest house which sits at 4110 metres.
Pokhara to Kathmandu After two nights in Pokhara we then moved onto Kathmandu to finish our trip.
So the day finally came it was the last big push with a 836m ascent and reaching an altitude of 5416 metres. We started the trek after an early 0400hrs breakfast .The feeling when we all reached the pass was more than breath-taking there really is no words to describe it. The happiness that everyone made it to the top was what made it extra special for me.
On our final night we went for dinner at the Bhojan Griha. This translates as “house of food”. Set in a 150 year old palace, which previously belonged to the priest of the King of Nepal the building had undergone extensive refurbishment to become a restaurant. Here we were treated to Nepalese dancing, authentic food and drink which was very fitting to end our time in Nepal.
Muktinah to Jomson Our Exped Leader SSgt Thapa informed us that we would be catching a bus to Jomson (instead of walking). This was much to the delight of the whole group!
Our last day in Nepal, I didn’t want to leave. The whole journey was amazing. I have never experienced anything near as good as this experience and am privileged I got the opportunity to take part in this Expedition.
Jomson to Pokhara The next morning we had an early 0500 hours start as
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26 RA
PROUD AS PUNCH
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An ardous training programme of strength and conditioning.
Standing Count
s the festive season approached, the men and women of 26th Regiment RA boxing team fought off the lure of GlĂźhwein and Christmas markets to size up one another for the Regimental Boxing Night on 7 December 2017. Six weeks out from the final night, boxers from all batteries came together under the guidance of SSgt McCormick and Gnr Robinson. They embarked on an arduous training programme of strength and conditioning, progressing to technique and sparring training as the boxers developed. After countless circuits, numerous sparring sessions and more burpees than they care to remember, the boxers got to put their hard work into practice at the finals night. The boxing evening was a cracking event. It saw boxers from across the
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batteries and workshop going toeto-toe against one another. LCpl McFarland even got to represent both the RDG and Northern Ireland with a stirring entrance and an even stronger performance in the ring. Ultimately however, the spoils of the evening went to Gnr Sutherland of 159 Bty, who won both his light-heavyweight bout and the best boxer award. Gnr Bateman of 17 Bty also performed well and took the award for the most gallant boxer of the evening. Meanwhile, the best boxing battery overall proved to be 17 Bty, aided by their BSM, WO2 (BSM) Mouland, who took a personal role in coaching the boxers. Every individual fought valiantly representing themselves, their subunits and the Regiment admirably. They were no doubt spurred on that extra bit by the presence of Ex WBO middleweight and supermiddleweight world champion Steve
Collins, who took time out of his successful polo career, to support and advise the boxers. Arriving the day before the finals night he spent time chatting with and getting to know the boxers and would no doubt have loved to have assisted a bit more . Unfortunately he was still nursing a black eye and stiff shoulder after getting on the wrong side of a horse a few weeks earlier! Overall, the qualities displayed by all competitors on the night were a testament to what it means to be a soldier, and win or lose, all boxers clearly benefited from the experience. What is more, the evening acted as a springboard from which 26th Regiment RA will select their team for the RA Championships in April 2018, which given the standard displayed, we are hopeful of securing some silverware!
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Primary and Community Care Patient Survey
Go on, have your say! We would like to hear about your experiences as a patient in BFG/EJSU.
What went right? What did not go to plan? What can be improved? Please complete the survey which takes around 3 minutes. The survey can be found on: www.patient-wise.de or scan the QR code below. If you need a non-electronic version or larger font, please email: yourhealth@gstti.co.uk
Thank you
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1 PWRR
Exercise ALLIED SPIRIT VIII Cover Story
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PWRR deployed a Battlegroup as part of a 10 nation multinational exercise to Grafenwoehr, Germany in January. Exercise Allied Spirit VIII took place at at the 7th Army Training Command’s Hohenfels Training Area in southeastern Germany, with up to 4,100 NATO participants from allied and partner nations of Albania, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, the United States and the United Kingdom.
straight after Christmas leave setting us up for the rest of the year in good stead. 1 PWRR were also lucky enough to work with a Company from the Danish 1st Battalion Royal Guards Hussars who are training to go on EFP with another British Battlegroup.
The exercise saw Polands 12th Mechanised Brigade Headquarters leading a British and two American Battlegroups. Allied Spirit VIII was unique in its ability to provide hands-on experience and testing of secure communications between NATO allies and partners. 1 PWRR survived the weather and put in a fine performance, impressing both the Polish Brigade Headquarters and our American observer mentors with our professionalism and cheerful nature in the face of arduous conditions. The exercise that took place on Hohenfels Training Area dubbed by the Americans as “the box” was against a near peer free thinking enemy. This provided the Battalion a great training opportunity
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RDG
Exercise ODIN FURY 17
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he Regimental live firing camp towards the end of 2017 took place on Kirkcudbright Training Centre situated on the South West Coast of Scotland. Unlike live firing camps of old, Odin Fury 17 looked to rotate Squadrons through both mounted and dismounted phases, each building up to the training objectives. These training objectives featured each sub-unit obtaining first time passes on their annual crewman tests as well as troop level attacks by day and night in the dismounted phase. Despite many rain dances being performed to stave off the Scottish climate, Hurricane Ophelia
QR H Ladie s
welcomed the Regiment with open arms in the second week of firing which saw C and A Sqn thoroughly drenched. The Hurricane failed to dampen spirits as A Squadron took to throwing themselves down the Fire Team attack lane whilst C Squadron blasted into the wind and rain on top of Brown Hill mounted range. By the third week we had three separate exercises ongoing with a B3 Gunnery Course run by the Regimental Gunnery Staff Sergeant. He proved he could work magic with ammunition conservation from the previous two weeks, enabling more crews to qualify. A Squadron also took up residence in an abandoned ammunition
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Better soldiers and closer as squadrons as a result.
factory to conduct urban/rural interface training as well as urban reconnaissance drills. Over 2,000 rounds of 30mm, 60,000 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition and 148 grenades were used over the four weeks, with the standard of firing at an extremely high standard. The blend of mounted and dismounted skills is an area that the Regiment continues to develop whilst we serve as Armoured Cavalry soldiers. Having experienced the full force of the Scottish weather, the Regiment left Scotland perhaps not all that excited about returning next winter, but certainly better soldiers and closer as squadrons as a result.
The Queens’ Royal Hussars ladies recently attended a Mental Health First Aid course with the Army Welfare Service in Normandy Barracks. Normally this is a full two day course, however, to fit in with the school run etc. the course was run over 3 shorter days. This was the first course specifically for spouses and was a great success. All participants thoroughly enjoyed the course and found it extremely worthwhile and informative and would recommend it to other units. If any units would like to take up the offer please ring the Army Welfare Service on 05254 9824340.
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Exercise SNOW STAG 18
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An account from one of the senior riders on the Exercise.
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xercise SNOW STAG took place this year in Flachau, Austria. After a nine-hour journey from Paderborn we arrived at our destination. That evening, we had enough time to grab our snowboards and prepare for the days ahead. The first day saw novice and senior riders separated into ability groups to make the most of the instructors available to us. We got the chance to go out for a ride before being divvied up between the instructors, David and Mike. I was in David’s group and he began by letting us ride our own way down the slopes. He gave us individual points to work on which was very helpful. At first, the conditions were icy but the powder arrived not long after. Our group was the most advanced so this meant tackling a black run early in the morning - we all did well going down the slope. The T-bar lift caused a few problems. Only three or four of the group made it to the top on the first attempt, some falling off just before the top. The T-bar is no easy task for a snowboarder! After our powder day, we started training for the Giant Slalom event. We boarded the course and received small tweaking points at the top of each run from the instructors and the more skilled snowboarders among us. With a day’s solid practice under our belts, we began the event the next day. We were given two timed runs and everyone was cheered on and supported throughout.
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The second event was the Boarder Cross. Before we started running the course and practicing our technique, we had to dig out the starting gates and shape the first few rollers because of the downfall of snow. After lunch, we all managed to get in some great practice and familiarised ourselves with the course. Unlike the Giant Slalom, everyone received two timed runs, with the top 16 going through to the knock out stages. The final event was Slopestyle and this is usually everyone’s favourite event. This course involves a variety of obstacles including rails, kickers and jumps. The practice runs were really good and no one had to try anything that they weren’t comfortable with. It was a great two weeks and I picked up some excellent learning points to take forward to next year and any future events.
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With a day’s solid practice under our belts, we began the event the next day. We were given two timed runs and everyone was cheered on and supported throughout
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rd
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Tuesday 3 April – Friday 6 April John Buchan Middle School 0930hrs – 1500hrs AWS Paderborn
AWS Bielefeld
HIVE Gutersloh
Normandy Barracks Mon-Thurs 0815hrs to 1545hrs Friday 0815hrs – 1230hrs
Catterick Barracks Mon-Fri 0900hrs to 1230hrs Tel: 052192543200
Mansergh Barracks Mon, Wed, Fri 1000hrs to 1230hrs Tel: 05241842381
Tel: 052549824340
(Located in HIVE)
(Located in HIVE)
Activity Essentials A packed lunch, plenty of drinks and appropriate indoor/outdoor/wet weather clothing and footwear
Dance Join our all-dancing Leeds Rhinos ‘Rhinestones’ dance team
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Multi Sports A wide range of field games appropriate for all ages
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Flashback to 2017 As this is the first edition of Punchlines for 2018, it is always nice to look back, appreciate and reflect on the amazing things have happened in the previous year. To name a few, there have been charity events, family days, dance competitions, adventure training and much more. We wanted to take this opportunity to thank all the people who put so much hard work into making these events happen. Make sure you get the most out of 2018. Check out the BFGnet.de calendar and notice boards for upcoming events.
Good news story! Home-Start BFG likes to ensure that every child feels the Christmas spirit, especially those who cannot be at home to share it with their families. Home-Start Schemes across BFG joined the Gütersloh Scheme who, for the past three years, have donated gifts to their local children’s hospitals, which have provided exceptional medical care to BFG families over the years. Home-Start Schemes organised a Christmas present drop with Paderborn and Sennelager joining together to show appreciation for Saint Vincenz Hospital, Paderborn. Bielefeld and Gütersloh consolidated their efforts for Klinik für Kinderund Jugendmedizin Gilead, Bielefeld.
Lt Col Mateer, Sparkasse Gütersloh and Capt Davidson QRH. All donations were used to buy individual gifts for patients, toys and games for the wards and treats for both patients and nurses, which helped to make it a magical time for everyone. NAAFI stores donated British themed goods for hampers that Home-Start schemes took to hospitals; the nursing staff were delighted with the treats. Bishops Park School donated a large number of gifts for the children’s hospitals and many items were dropped into the Schemes from families and individuals in the BFG community. Volunteers gladly gave their time to wrap all of the donated gifts which greatly added to the festive spirit. As the BFG community and businesses were so generous, this year 100 gifts and chocolate Santa’s were also donated to the local food bank and were greatly received.
Scheme’s received donations from Catterick Barracks Officers Mess, Heepen Officers Mess, Warrant Officers and Sergeants Mess Catterick Barracks, QRH Welfare, Paderborn Station and PRI, 35 Engineer Regiment, 1PWRR, 26 Regiment RA, 29 Regiment Postal Courier and Movement, Community Support, Station Commanders; Lt Col Maw and
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What was our recent Carnival Event? In celebration of Paderborn’s annual Karneval parade, Home-Start Paderborn invited families along to a special carnival morning during February half term. Children dressed up and enjoyed painting, sticking masks and making musical instruments, before creating fruit pancake faces. A lovely morning was had by all. Some of the comments we received from our families were: ‘Great morning for keeping the kiddies busy during half term’ ‘Fantastic sessions. Both girls really enjoyed all the activities. It’s lovely to do things here that they don’t usually do at home’
What is Home-Start about?
group, help at events, fundraise, and so much more.
Home-Start is a voluntary organisation in which volunteers and organisers provide friendship and practical help to families with young children both individually and within group settings, by supporting parents as they learn to cope, improve their confidence and build better lives for their children. Groups and events provide an opportunity for families to socialise, and a chance for parents to play with their children through weekly arts and crafts and music.
You will receive training and support and in doing so would help turn a family’s life around. Home-Start’s amazing volunteers continue to support many families in the BFG community.
How can I get involved? We invite all families to come along and join us on our weekly group sessions at the Village Hall, Arndt Strasse. Mondays we host Mum’s and Bumps and Fridays Clever Tots between 09:30 and 11:30, both groups are open to children under 5’s. There’s no need to register before attending, just turn up on the day. We also provide healthy snacks for children. How can I get involved as a volunteer? When a family asks us for help, it is a volunteer who makes the difference. Home-Start’s volunteers are a lifeline for families and there are lots of ways to get involved. You can visit parents and children in their homes, help run a support
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Whatever way you volunteer for us you will: • Make a difference to parents and children facing difficulties • Give something back to your local community • Perhaps return the support you once received from Home-Start • Share a similar experience You may also benefit yourself, through: • Better health and well-being; • Improved personal and skills development; • Improved chances for work • More self-confidence • Preparing to return to work or to progress your career • Doing something amazing with your spare time Who can I contact? Please feel free to contact Mandy Daly or Georgia Heaslip at the Paderborn Office on 05251528609, or pop in for a friendly chat.
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Haig School hit the slopes! On a cold winters morning in Gutersloh, school started a little early for a group of intrepid school teachers and students, 26 hours early in fact! The reason these bleary-eyed, early-risers were gathered around the school gates at 0530 on a Sunday morning signalled it was the beginning of the annual Haig School ski residential to Austria. In a mere 10 hours this group of young and not so young thrill seekers would be putting their skills to the test in one of Europe’s best ski resorts, deep within the majestic Austrian Alps. While children from MOD schools may have been travelling to this area of Austria for over 30 years, it was the first time many of these children and even some of the adults had visited Austria, let alone with two skis strapped on their feet. Mr Turner, headmaster and trip leader, explained “We often talk about challenge and new experiences – so the opportunity to offer this to school children in such a tremendous setting is one which cannot be missed. To see the rapid progress of a new skill and incredible self-belief which grows as a result, pays dividends back in the classroom.” An early start and a substantial breakfast prepared the Haig School skiing group to be unleashed upon the mountain via a 15 minute gondola ride straight up the side of an imposing peak. Over the following five days, the children started to master many of the skills required to transport themselves from the top of the mountain to the bottom with control and style. The children were separated into ability groups with some of the children who had been on skiing trips previously tackling black runs before the week was out. Our bold beginners mastered the basics lower down the mountain, before exploring further afield with their instructor.
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It was my first time going with the school and I would love to go again. The rooms were cosy and there was lots of snow. I got to spend lots of time with my friends. I would recommend it to anyone!”
In addition to the great tuition from a team of well qualified ski instructors, Siegi Tours who have been supporting MOD schools in their alpine pursuits for many years, also provided the après ski entertainment, including the slightly bizarre cow milking competition, outdoor curling as well as an opportunity for the children to showcase their performing talents in some lively karaoke numbers. At the end of the week, everyone concerned agreed that a fabulous time was had by all, some of who may have had had ignited a passion for skiing that could well last a life time.
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Fitness Fun for Families
F
itness Fun for Families was held on 15th February at Bielefeld School. The idea was to show children and their families that staying fit and healthy was good and fun at the same time. The events were broken down into four different settings. Each area was overseen by a different professional. In the main hall was Sylvia Lane demonstrating Zumba accompanied by PT instructors Luke and Callum who set up a great obstacle course. Martin Gooch, head chef at NAAFI, teamed up with the dietician, Fumi Fukada, in the small hall and Gemma from the dental centre completed the team in the FS area. Sylvia commenced proceedings with an energetic Zumba routine for the children. All the parents joined in as well. It was so much fun that every child joined in. The children then moved to join Gemma who gave advice on how to clean their teeth and let them practise on the kangaroo’s teeth. The session finished with an interactive game on guess how much sugar was in different drinks. The children received lots of helpful freebies to assist them in cleaning their teeth correctly. Following on from this session the children were split into two groups. One group went for their cooking lesson with Martin and the other group went to the PTIs for their obstacle course. Martin made a special spaghetti bolognese with lots of extra healthy vegetables and asked the children to taste and guess the vegetables in it. The children then went on to make their own healthy lunch box from the goodies that Martin had prepared. At the end of the sessions the children gathered in the small hall to eat their healthy packed lunch and Sharon Jardine, the health visitor, did a quiz to gauge how much they have learned over the course of the event. It might have been cold and snowy outside but inside it was lovely and warm. The children were full of questions and smiles which enabled the parents to speak to the other professionals who were on hand to answer their queries. It was a super day and fun was had by everyone. Marie MacKinnon, Home-Start Bielefeld, said “We can’t thank everyone enough. They gave up their time and put in a great deal of effort to ensure the event was a huge success.”
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VANILLA CHICK BISCUIT POPS by Angela Boggiano BBC Good Food
Method
Healthy Easter snacks for all the family These fun little chicks are made from an egg (obviously) and small carrot stripes for the feet and beak and bits of olive for the eyes.
Easy peasy!
by www.forkly.com Photo by She Knows
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ut half the butter and all the sugar in a bowl. Using an electric whisk or wooden spoon, beat together until smooth and creamy. Beat in the egg and half the vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.
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ip the flour into the mixture and mix on a low speed until it comes together to form a dough. Gather up into a ball, wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for 20 mins.
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eat oven to 180C/160C fan/ gas 4. Line 2 baking trays with baking parchment. Put the biscuit dough on a lightly floured surface and roll out until about 5mm thick. Cut out the biscuits using a 6cm round cutter. Transfer the biscuits to the prepared trays and insert the lolly sticks into the sides, just a quarter of the way through. Bake for 6-7 mins until the edges are golden brown, then carefully transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely before decorating.
Ingredients
200g unsalted butter, at room temperature 100g golden caster sugar 1 medium egg, beaten 1 tsp vanilla extract 200g plain flour 200g icing sugar 2 tbsp milk Yellow food colouring
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eanwhile, make some buttercream frosting. Place the remaining softened butter in a bowl and beat with a wooden spoon. Slowly add the icing sugar, 1 tbsp at a time, until thoroughly incorporated and you have a smooth, creamy mixture. Add a little milk and the remaining vanilla extract with a few drops of food colouring to give a pale yellow colour. Chill for 5 mins.
P
ut the desiccated coconut in a small bowl, add a few drops of yellow food colouring and mix well until the coconut is coloured pale yellow.
S
pread the buttercream frosting over one side of the biscuit and sprinkle with the coconut. Add 2 chocolate chip eyes to each. Pinch a little orange fondant icing and shape into a beak and press into the mixture. Decorate with a ribbon, if you like, and serve. Will keep for 2 days in an airtight container.
75g unsweetened desiccated coconut 50g small chocolate chips 25g orange or white fondant icing, plus a few drops orange food colouring You will need 15-18 lolly sticks ribbon, to decorate (optional)
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Easter Festival 30 minutes from the historic Lubeck city is the seaside town of Travemunde where the annual ‘Ostermude” Easter festival is held. A colour event for all the family, which includes an Easter Bonfire. 30 March to 2 April 2018
Lubeck
http://www.travemuende-tourism.de/events/ highlights/ostermuende.html
Hannover
Berlin
PADERBORN
Harz Mountains Witches Festival Explore the beautiful Harz mountains and surrounding cities including UCESCO Quedlingburg. The area is famous for its mysterious atmosphere and has been forever imprinted into German tales and legends.
Cologne
The famous magical Walpurgis Night (Witches Festival) is celebrated here on 30 April 2018.
Palatine Almond Blossom Path Hike along the magical Almond Blossom Path and breathe in the wonderful scents of Spring.
For more information visit: http://www. thisisharz.com/witches-festival.html
Frankfurt
March and April 2018. For more information, please visit: http://www.mandelbluete-pfalz.de/de/ mandelwochen/
Easter Egg Museum Nested in the Swabian Alps, the pretty town of Sonnenbühl is home to the renowned Easter Egg Museum which celebrates it’s 25th Anniversary.
Nuremburg
Stuttgart
Munich
http://www.ostereimuseum. de/ostereimuseum.de,Lde/ ostereimuseum_+startseite.html
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Tree Blossom Festival 30 minutes from the capital the town of Havel hosts the blumblutenfest (Tree blossom festival)- Germany’s well known fruit wine festival. 28 April to 6 May 2018 http://www.baumbluetenfest.com/
Niedersaechsische Spargelstrasse Cycle the Asparagus (Spargel) bike path through Lower Saxony. Discover the half-timbered houses along the way and visit the asparagus museum. For more information: http://www.niedersaechsische-spargelstrasse.de/entdecken/spargelradweg/
Dresden
Easter Market Not only does Germany offer amazing Christmas Markets, it also has Easter Markets (Ostermarkt). These markets are held across the country. Pictureque Nuremburg’s Ostermarkt runs from 16 March to 2 April 2018 https://www.nuernberg.de/ internet/marktamt/ostermarkt. html
SPRING GUIDE TO GERMANY
Spring Festival Much like it’s October counterpart. Munich’s traditional Spring Festival is not an event to be missed. 20 April to 6 May 2018 See here for more info: http://www.muenchen. de/veranstaltungen/event/7816.html
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GET YOUR SPRING BACK! After the windy chilling temperatures of winter it’s time to kick start your exercise programme.
Best Foot Forward Walking is a fantastic form of exercise. It’s simple, effective and according to the NHS Live Well ‘Walking for health’ page it’s one of the easiest ways to become more active, lose weight and become healthier. Around Germany there are plenty of beautiful walks you can do. Explore Hannover city centre or walk around Lippesee Lake. Take in the buildings or stunning scenery while you exercise. The good news is you can do this form of exercise anywhere… Going on a beach holiday? Take a stroll in the sand. Walking is known to boost your immune system, improve your mood and help reduce stress. It gives you the opportunity to think mediate or just chill. It really is a perfect way of starting a new healthier you. For more information go to: https://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/ getting-started-guides/Pages/getting-started-walking.aspx
Time Management: If you’re struggling to find time to go for a run or join an exercise group, try making some of these small changes to improve your fitness.
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- Walk the stairs - Bring out the dumbells or do some stretches during TV breaks. - Take a lunchtime stroll - Swap the car for a bike - especially around camp! - Run or walk to work. - Use the gym before or after work or even during your lunch break.
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Useful Suggestions: Get a good nights sleep. Drink plenty of water. Eat smaller portions. Speak to your GP for nutritional advice. Write it down! Write down your goals and dinner plans. Follow it up by keeping an exercise and food diary. Take before and after pictures. Sometimes we don’t see the small changes in our body. Take a photo every two weeks to see how you’ve changed. Look at training towards something. Whether that is a better, healther you or a charity race. Start off slow and begin at a level that is manageable to you. Don’t rush into things as this can lead to injury and may set you back.
Couch to 5k
Join a group for support. There are plenty of groups and clubs across BFG from circuits to yoga. Look on BFGnet for more information.
Go from beginner to army fit gradually.
A running plan for beginners. Use this 9 week plan to go from couch to 5k! For more information to go: https://www. nhs.uk/LiveWell/c25k/Pages/couch-to-5k. aspx
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This app was created by the British Army recruitment. With demonstrations and narration, it starts off as slow as you need to go and has a great mix of exercises. Best off all its completely free!
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NEW LEON 2.0TSi 300ps Cupra DSG
M
UK List Price £29,900 Military Price £17,795 Military Saving £12,105
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With payments direct from your MOD pay
Example:Cash price £17,795. Deposit £795. Interest £3121.12. Monthly Payments £279.46. Term 72 months. Total payable £20,916.12. Saving after all interest over UK list price £8,983.88. APR 5.9%
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Exa pay
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With payments direct from your MOD pay
Example:Cash price £21,695. Deposit £1,695. Interest £3,672.16. Monthly Payments £328.78. Term 72 months. Total payable £25,367.16. Saving after all interest over UK list price £6,607.84. APR 5.9%
German Freephone
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D A S H A I N March April 2018.indd 28
Interesting Facts: Dashain falls during the month of Kartik (late September and early November). It is one of the biggest and longest festivals in the Nepalese calendar. It is a celebration of good over evil. In Nepalese culture the goddess Durga slays the demon Mahishasur. Mahisasur terrorised the earth disguised as a water buffalo. The 15 day celebration occurs during the bright Luna fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. The first 9 days signify the battle between Durga and Mahisasur. The tenth day is when Mahisasur is slain. The last five days is the victory celebration with the blessing of the goddess.
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T
he Bielefeld Nepalese community celebrated post Dashain celebration on 28 October 2017 with great pride, zeal and enthusiasm at community hall in Catterick Barracks, Bielefeld. There were a number of distinguished guests (including Station Commander) present to witness the Dashain celebration. Members from across the British Forces Germany Nepalese Community (Gutersloh, Paderborn and
Sennelager) also attended that function. The party was hosted by the Bielefeld Nepalese Community and entertained by local Bielefeld Chadke Band and dancers. Sgt Rai took the opportunity to welcome and thank the guests and conveyed his Dashain greetings on behalf of the Nepalese Community. The event was kindly held and supported by HQ Bielefeld Station.
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Language Learning:
How the museum and the AEC worked together
The British in Westfalen With the British Military set to leave Germany in 2019, the Stadtmuseum in Paderborn hosted a fantastic exhibition known as ‘Briten in Westfalen’ to commerate over seventy years of members of the British military and Germans living next to each other in Westphalia. Paderborner-konversion.de states: “The exhibition depicts the impact of the British occupation and the troop deployment on the people and the region... An array of topics are covered, ranging from the democratisation of the region to the first GermanBritish marriages, mutual marksman’s festivals, exchange programmes, pub brawls and the civilian conversation of the barracks complex. In addition, glimpses of life in the British barracks and married quarters offer insight into how the soldiers and families lived and what is meant to be stationed in Westphalia. Presented are objects from military life, but also personal photographs, objects and documents, private and official film material, and interviews with Germans and Britons.”
“A truly wonderful exhibition!”
Lindsay McCran from the AEC and Dr Bettina Blum saw an opportunity for language learners to come together and help each other in their respective languages, The perfect location for this was the Stadtmuseum and both English and German students were asked to come and visit. Each student was encouraged to speak in the language that they were learning and help and guidance would be supplied throughout. It was really a valuable learning experience for everyone involved, In addition to this, Lindsay had created a fantastic quiz for students to complete as they walked around. It was such a collaborative event,
“Wonderful memories of our time in Germany. We will miss it dearly!”
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“
These collaborative events are a truly valuable experience for everyone involved.
Sp ot l i g ht on our Community
For this edition, our ‘Spotlight in the Community’ is Lindsay McCran who works in the Army Education Centre (AEC). Read on to find out what she has been up to. Lindsay McCran has lived in Germany numerous times with her current stint being over four years. Her commitment to the community and her work is commendable with her colloborative work, with the Stadtmuseum, being just one example of many. The BFG Information Officer, Kathryn Bracey, went to speak to Lindsay to find out what her day looks like in the BFG community. It was obvious from the beginning that Lindsay enjoys her job and shows great enthuasium when she talks about it. Within the Army Education Centre, Lindsay is part of a team that delivers language courses for soldiers and their families. Her role at the AEC was originally to coordinate military language training for units, but this has recently expanded to include families. As a language teacher herself, Lindsay was well placed to coordinate a new diagnostic programme which matches students with the most suitable courses or learning materials. Her involvement with the museum has shown such commitment and again her enthuasium shone through. With events weekly, Lindsay has been heavily involved trying to get the maximum amount of visitors to the museum. Lindsay has always had a love of Germany and hopes one day to return to Bad Lippspringe and retire with her husband Andy. In her spare time, she likes enjoying the great outdoors with her husband and children. Thank you for everything you do Lindsay!
German and English students visiting the museum
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Interested in current issues? Want to EXPRESS YOUR ideas globally? Ready to write about it? ‘TOWARDS A COMMON FUTURE’ The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition is the world’s oldest schools’ international writing competition, established in 1883. With thousands of young people taking part every year, it is an important way for the young voice of the Commonwealth to be developed and heard. Through the sub-themes of sustainability, safety, prosperity and fairness, the 2018 theme asks young writers to explore how the Commonwealth can address global challenges and work to create a better future for all citizens, particularly young people.
SENIOR CATEGORY
Born between 2nd June 1999 and 31st May 2004 (14-18 years of age) 1 The road to a safer future. 2 How does education contribute to a fairer future? 3 ‘Healthy, Wealthy, Happy, and Free’: is one more important than the others? 4 Future generations have rights too, which must be defended. Discuss.
JUNIOR CATEGORY
Born after 31st May 2004 (under 14 years of age) 1 What does a safer future mean to you and your community? 2 Write a recipe for a common future: what ingredients will you need? What is the best method for making it? What will it look like? 3 ‘A Day in the Life’. Imagine you are your country’s Head of Government for the day: how will you build a better future for young people? 4 Our Common Earth.
ENTER BY 1ST JUNE 2018
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Contact the RCS E
competitions@thercs.org
W thercs.org/competition
@CWEssayComp facebook.com/CWEssayComp
GUIDELINES
AWARDS
• All nationals and residents of all Commonwealth countries and territories aged 18 and under are eligible to enter the competition, including entrants from The Gambia, The Maldives and Zimbabwe.
One Winner and Runner-up will be chosen from each category. 9KPPGTU CPF 4WPPGTU WR YKNN DG ĆƒQYP to London for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special Awards Ceremony.
• Residents of non-Commonwealth countries whose entries are submitted through their local RCS branch are also eligible. • All entries must be in English. • Entrants are asked to present their work in the format that best conveys their message, be that an essay, poem, story, folk tale, script, letter, diary entry, monologue or other written style. Photos and drawings are encouraged, particularly in the Junior Category.
A number of Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards will be given in both the Senior and Junior categories, rewarding excellence in writing. All entrants will TGEGKXG C %GTVKĆ‚ECVG QH 2CTVKEKRCVKQP
The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2018 is run by The Royal Commonwealth Society.
• Full terms and conditions are available at www.thercs.org/competition.
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MEET THE WRVS TEAM
Introducing... Name: Michelle Hall SWO @ Athlone Barracks How long have you worked for WRVS? 9 months Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you came to work for WRVS‌ I worked for the prison service for 17 years and decided I wanted a new challenge. I worked as a Prison Officer in a variety of settings, female, juvenile and male estate. I saw the SWO post on a Facebook forum for Prison Officers and thought it was just what I was looking for and an opportunity to use the skills I gained in my previous role.
MINDY WOOD Normandy Barracks
How long have you been at Athlone? 3 weeks What previous postings have you had? Previously I was at 8 Training Battalion REME at MOD Lyneham. What are you looking forward to doing here in Paderborn?
DUNCAN MUNRO Dempsey Barracks
I am looking forward to working with a different unit and exploring the local area. Tell us a little interesting or funny fact about yourself that people may not know. I used to play rugby at quite a high standard. I played for Gloucestershire County but had to give it up after a cruciate ligament reconstruction.
MICHELLE HALL Athlone Barracks
AMANDA LAMB Barker Barracks
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TIM WEIR Normandy Barracks
JANICE JENKINS Mansergh Barracks
JILL SMITH Catterick Barracks
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NORMANDY BARRACKS Location: Building 40 above the NAAFI shop Civ: 05254 982 2617 Mil: 94879 2617 Email: Normandy@wrvs.org.uk
ATHLONE BARRACKS Location: Building next to Welfare Civ: 05254 9820 4602 Mil: 94879 4602 Email: Athlone@wrvs.org.uk
CATTERICK BARRACKS Location: Bielefeld Welfare Lounge (evenings) and the Ridge Bar Civ: 05219 254 3167 Mil: 94881 3167 Email: Bielefeld@wrvs.org.uk
Opening hours: Sunday 16:00-22:00 Monday 10:00-22:00 Tuesday 10:00-22:00 Wednesday 10:00-22:00 Thursday 10:00-22:00 Friday 10:00-22:00 Saturday 15:00-21:00
Opening hours: Sunday 16:00-19:00 Monday 10:00-17:30 Tuesday 10::30-13:30 17:30-21:30 Wednesday 10:00-17:30 Thursday 10:00-13:30 17:30-21:30 Friday 10:00-13:00
DEMPSEY BARRACKS Location: Building 9 next to the NAAFI Bar Civ: 05254 982 4240 Mil: 94879 4240 Email: Dempsey@wrvs.org.uk
MANSERGH BARRACKS Location: Building 64 above the NAAFI shop Civ: 05241 842329 Mil: 94873 2329 Email: Mansergh@wrvs.org.uk
BARKER BARRACKS Location: Building 16 above Monty’s Bar Civ: 05251 101 229 Mil: 94879 3229 Email: Barker@wrvs.org.uk
Opening hours: Sunday 16:00-19:00 Monday 10:00-17:30 Tuesday 10:00-13:30 17:30-21.30 Wednesday 10:00-17:30 Thursday 10:00-13:30 17:30-21:30 Friday 10:00-13:00
Opening hours: Sunday 16:30-19:30 Monday 09:00-13:00 17:00-20:30 Tuesday 09:00-13:00 17:00-20.30 Wednesday 09:00-16:00 Thursday 09:00-13:00 17:00-20:30 Friday 09:00-12:30
Opening hours: Sunday 18:00-21:30 Monday 09:30-14:00 18:00-21:30 Tuesday 09:30-14:00 18:00-21.30 Wednesday 09:30-15:00 Thursday 09:30-14:00 18:00-21:30 Friday 09:30-12:30
Opening hours: Sunday 18:00-22:00 Monday 09:00-16:00 Tuesday 09:00-13:30 19:00-21.30 Wednesday 09:00-13:30 19:00-21:30 Thursday 09:00-16:00 Friday 09:30-13:00
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BIG Night Out
id you head to the ‘Big Night Out’ in Loseke Community Centre? If not, you missed out!
If you like being pampered and feeling glam - this was the night for you! Representatives from Neal’s Yard Remedies (Gillian Low), Stella and Dot (Jo Markwick), Beauty by Mary (Mary Robinson), Heaven’s Gift (Stacey Jones) and Hunger Surgery (cakes by Ella Wilson) were there to let guests look and sample their products.
THE DETAILS WHERE Loseke Community Centre WHEN Friday, 2 February 2018 WHY To help dependants to promote their businesses, host an event for the BFG community to come and enjoy and finally to raise money and awareness for Parkinsons.
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The atmosphere was fantastic and it was clear everyone was having a great time. The event wouldn’t have happened without the hard work and commitment shown by Sarah McIntee and the ‘Big Night Out’ team. The first 20 visitors received a fantastic goodie bag full of beauty products and vouchers. One lady said:
“
Thank you all for a lovely evening. Loved my goodie bag, the cakes, free juices and getting myself some treats from the stalls. Winning a prize in the raffle topped the evening of nicely! Sarah, thank you for sharing your story and hopefully money and attention to the Parkinson cause has been raised.
This event was all in aid of Parkinson’s and over 160 euros went to the great cause. Congratulations! Let us know when the next one is!
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I wanted to introduce you to my mum. Mum was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease when she was 55, just 15 years older than me. It’s unusual for someone to be diagnosed when they are so young. Parkinson’s is often a diseases associated with the old and infirm. It’s a slow, progressive disease that you probably wouldn’t be aware that someone had, if it wasn’t for the shaky hands or involuntary limb movements. It does also have a much bigger impact on the sufferers’ life including anxiety, depression, heart problems, loss of self, slower brain function, speech problems and being tied to a cocktail of drugs that you have to take at the same time, several times, everyday. My mum was the most stylish and elegant lady I knew. There was always an outfit to borrow or a new beauty product to try. Mum was one of the first people I knew to have a tube of fake tan in the cupboard, I sincerely regret slapping that stuff on myself, for my sixth form prom, I have the streaky, orange pictures to prove it! She was always full of advice and guidance for the many, many people that popped in to see her, when their lives were tough. She continued, right up to the end, to think only about others, rather than herself. Two days prior to her leaving us, she asked me to promise her that we would be ok without her. Had she taught me everything I needed to know?...Of course she had!! Mum passed away on 25 November 2017. In her honour, my family are raising funds to start a rural Parkinson’s support group in Cheshire. It was often difficult for Mum and indeed Dad, to find local support, without travelling into Chester city centre. I spoke to other local Parkinson’s sufferers and found that they struggle with the same lack of nearby support. Our first ‘Big Night Out’ will raise funds to take us a step closer to starting the group. Mum was a ‘Military Wife’ and this event is absolutely one she would have supported. She’d have been first in line for all the fabulous treatments on offer, splashing out on some new jewellery and returning home with a new beauty product for us to try. She is with me everyday and I’m confident she will be with us on the night. Much Love Sarah M xx
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Wife Life
Thank you and good luck
IN CELEBRATION OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY ON MARCH 8TH, A WIFE IN BFG HAS SUPPLIED PUNCHLINES WITH HER THOUGHTS Women and their role in the home, in the workplace and in society overall is currently under a microscope and as a result, women are coming forward to challenge the circumstances they have found themselves in. It is incredible to hear the stories of empowerment and justice served, albeit a long time coming. However our fight for equality continues and while that can be a hard truth to swallow, it is a fight that we can all play a part in. International Women’s Day is on March 8th and it marks a day where, across the entire globe, men and women alike celebrate the many cultural, political, social and economic achievements of women. While many of us set a New Years resolution, perhaps now a more worthwhile challenge to make a change for the better might be set on March 8th. Let’s think about how we celebrate women - especially those close to us - by asking ourselves how we can support women? What small impact can we make to empower ourselves and others? As army wives, we are part of a unique community of women which is self-reliant and self-sustaining. Our community is a reflection of each of us as individuals and the relationships that we have with one another. It is up to us to keep it robust and powerful. Are we encouraging one another? Are we celebrating one another’s successes? Are we looking out for one another and lending a hand whenever we can? Are we acting and reacting in a way which presents a strong, competent role model to our daughters and sons?
The BFG community came to bid farewell to Brigadier Ian Bell, Commander British Forces Germany. We thank him for all his hard work, dedication and wish him all the very best for the future.
Challenge yourself on March 8th. Be the change! If you would like to contribute any of your own experiences to Wife Life, you can do so by emailing punchlines.magazine@gmail.com. No names will be published.
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WHAT A KEEPER! FC United Paderborn recently formed their first ever ladies team.
hosted by SC Grün - Weiß Paderborn a local German ladies team.
What started as just an idea is turning into a great success thanks to coaches Lewis Tippett and Alwyn Bancroft. After only a few weeks of training, the ladies played their first tournament at the “Pollux Ladies Cup”. The indoor footballing event was orgainsed and
One of the proudest moments for the team was when Goalkeeper Wendy Benza-Chofor was awarded “goalkeeper of the tournament”. This was voted for by all attending teams and a great achievement for the ladies.
Football is not only a great physical workout, it is also a fantasic way to meet new people and have fun too!
ARE YOU INTERESTED? Football is not only a great physical workout, it is also a fantastic way to meet new people and have fun too. Whether you are a football playing enthusiast or have never kicked a ball around before - it really doesn’t matter. Please come along and and give it a go! At the moment training takes place in LaOla Soccer Jam every Thursday from 19:00 - 20:00. Once the temperature has heated up, the team will be returning to their home ground in Bad Lippspringe Sportsfields in March. For any more information please contact either: Team manager Julia Scott: 0044(0)7851268609 Paderborn United Chairman John Pluckwell: Paderbornunited@gmail
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The AFF Roadshow gives the opportunity for BFG families to speak directly to Commanders. Any queries or concerns can be raised here. Below are the questions that came from this year’s Roadshow.
REBASING What is being done to make sure that the infrastructure at the rebasing locations is on track to receive an influx of service personnel and their families in 2019? Over £1Bn is being invested in infrastructure in and around the Salisbury Plain area. This will boost the local economy and provide about 2,500 bed spaces for single soldiers, just over 1,300 new homes for Service families and the construction, conversion or refurbishment of nearly 250 other buildings such as offices, garages, workshops and mess facilities. Works within bases is underway, with the main construction programme running through to 2020. For the Service family homes work will commence at all three sites in 2017.
wishing to keep their residence and families in Germany once they are rebased to the UK. We will keep you informed as progress is made.
With our unit (1 PWRR) now moving to Cyprus and not Bulford as per the rebasing announcement in 2013, is there the option to have a funded family move back to the UK if a family decide married unaccompanied is the best option for them? There is not a definitive yes or no answer as individual circumstances may affect the outcome to each case. Normally entitled Service Personnel (SP) will receive publicly funded removals and/or storage upon permanent assignment to a new duty station, or on an authorised mid assignment move. In this case the publically funded move would be from Germany to Cyprus.
The Army Basing Team has been liaising with Wiltshire Council since 2012 to prepare and plan for the extra troops and their families. The infrastructure will be built in time for 2019. It’s a huge undertaking but the plans are progressing well. The Army Basing Team are working closely with Wiltshire Council, other government departments, local service providers, industry and NHS England to ensure critical infrastructure including new Service family homes and single living accommodation, education and health provision is in place in time for the moves. The link below will take you to news on the Army Basing Team news letters and Salisbury Plain Training Areas (SPTA) housing information news.
However each case will be different and so SP must obtain advice from their own Admin Office at the earliest opportunity to discuss their own specific circumstances. If you require any further information please contact G1 Branch HQ BFG. All enquiries should be made to the group mailbox: BFG-HQ-G1OpsPers-0GpMailbox@mod.uk.
https://bfgnet.de/leaving-bfg/news-items.html
If you are not allocated the school of your choice, parents have the right to appeal. We strongly suggest that you accept the school you have been allocated AND appeal at the same time. Otherwise, the offered place may then be unavailable if the appeal is lost. CEAS can help with the appeal process. Please email DCYP-CEAS-ENQUIRIES@mod.uk for our admission appeals pack.
What support is being offered to soldiers with German families who are choosing to keep their permanent residence in Germany but remain serving with the Army? We are currently engaging with Army HQ to state the case to review the allowances for those soldiers
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EDUCATION What do I need to know about making an education appeal?
What options are available with regard to schooling in general and especially
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for children entering/in critical stages of their education? All BFG schools will remain open and retain their current provision until Summer 2019; King’s School is expecting to deliver a full curriculum at GCSE and A Level at this time. Parents who are returning to UK and have children starting Years 10 and 12 in September 2018 should consider carefully the choices open to them as it will be extremely difficult to ‘match up courses’ with schools in the UK. Your child may be required to repeat some coursework, and possibly drop some subjects to give them the best opportunity to do well if they transfer to a UK school for Years 11 or 13. Other options that you might wish to consider are boarding or using the Early Mover Scheme. For more information about boarding you should contact CEAS (DCYP-CEAS-ENQUIRIES@mod.uk). The Early Mover Scheme allows families that will be part of a 2019 unit move to the UK to leave BFG in the Summer of 2018 to start a critical stage of education; the serving spouse would remain with the unit and re-join their family in the UK in Summer 2019. For details of the Early Mover Scheme you should contact your Unit Welfare Officer.
HOUSING I am currently in a federal quarter. No families will be moving into my quarter when I leave in summer 2019 due to drawdown. Will the march out standards still be the same? A single standard for theatre closure will be agreed. This process will involve consultation with the Operational Chain of Command. Once agreed this will be communicated centrally.
I live in Bad Lippspringe and I have noticed a large number of properties being handed back or are being left empty. What is the likelihood that families in SSFA (private landlord owned properties) where I live and elsewhere will be moved out of their accommodation prior to the moves back to UK? The current use of leased SFA known as substitute SFA (SSFA) has a lease agreement which enables the owner/landlord to view or request the property back at any stage during the lease agreement. Currently in Bad Lippspringe owners are beginning to request their properties back for either personal or commercial use. Prior to any announcement or decision to move a family all options will be looked into. Families with less than six months left will not be moved unless their property is uneconomical to repair (completely failed in some aspect of Health and Safety) or if welfare reasons apply.
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SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY Will BFG be employing more DELs to ensure that Station facilities are fully staffed to the end? Locally Engaged Civilian (LEC) posts are advertised initially as Dependant opportunities (unless specialist skills are required e.g. German language). Only if they are not filled by dependants, will they be re-categorised as Directly Employed Labour (DEL). However, as we progress towards final drawdown, more Military appointees may choose to serve unaccompanied and this may mean that fewer dependants will be available to fill LEC posts. To ensure service is maintained the relative split of Dependant and DEL posts may need to be reviewed.
When Paderborn LSU no longer exists, how do I get a reference for future employment? Under current planning assumptions there will be a small, residual LSU remaining in Germany. This LSU will remain the first point of contact for any LEC-related employment queries after Paderborn LSU has closed.
Are BFBS staying in Germany until the end? On current planning BFBS are planning to deliver services in line with the drawdown of BFG.
Students at Kings who hold a full driving license are entitled to buy tax free cars but pupils who are at boarding school cannot. Why is this? Policy states that an ‘Entitled Person’ has to have a reasonable expectation to be present in Germany for a minimum of 183 days within the qualifying year. It is reasonable to assume that any dependent child over the age of 18 who is attending a Boarding School located outside of Germany is not going to meet this requirement.
Is WhatsApp an approved way of communication? It is constant throughout evenings and weekends which means it’s very hard to enjoy family time. WhatsApp is not a recognised platform for OFFICIAL communications WhatsApp is a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) platform which offers end to end encryption, it is recommended for private communications because it is relatively safe compared to other platforms and other methods of communicating but should not be used for official business.
06/03/2018 14:07
Welfare Details 20X
Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 0900 - 1600hrs (closed between 1230 - 1330) Friday: 0900 - 1230hrs
Contact details Office: 05254 982 2437 Out of Hours: 05254 982 2232
Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 0900 - 1500hrs Friday: 0900 - 1300hrs
Contact details Office: 05251 101 321 Out of Hours: 05251 101 243
Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 0830 - 1700hrs Friday: 0830 - 1300hrs
Contact details Office: 05254 982 2344 or 2425 Out of Hours: 05254 982 2428
Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 0900 - 1230hrs & 1330 - 1530hrs Friday: 0900 - 1230hrs
Contact details Office: 05254 982 2417 Out of Hours: 05254 982 4126
35 ENG
Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 0900 - 1430hrs Friday: 0900 - 1200hrs
Contact details Office: 05251 101 213 Out of Hours: 05251 101 243
Bielefeld Station
Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 0800 - 1600hrs Friday: 0800 - 1300hrs
Contact details Office: 05219254 3208 Out of Hours: 05219254 3252
Opening hours Mon, Tues,Thurs: 0800 - 1700hrs Wed: 0800 - 1330hrs Friday: 0800 - 1200hrs
Contact details Office: 05251 101 844 Out of Hours: 05251 101 243
Opening hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 0830 1230hrs & 1330 - 1530hrs Wednesday, Friday: 0830 - 1230hrs
Contact details Office: 05241 84 2228 Duty Mobile: 01722 175483
Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 0900 - 1600hrs (closed between 1230 - 1330) Friday: 0900 - 1230hrs
Contact details Office: 05254 982 2437 Out of Hours: 05254 982 2232
1PWRR QRH 1AMR
3 REME 26 RA 42
Paderborn Station PUNCHlines
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06/03/2018 14:08
Barker Library New Opening Hours
Mansergh Library
New Opening Times from 26th March
When
The competition will run from 1-30 March 2018. Winners will be selected at random during the first week of April and notified by email.
Who
How
Any member of Mansergh Library over the age of 16*
Take out any book from the Young Adult or Adult sections.
New members are welcome.
Fill in a short entry form ensuring we have the correct contact details
*Under 18’s will only be allowed books from the Young Adult section and appropriate titles from Adult non-fiction.
Barker Library will have the following new opening times as of the 26th March 2018.
Monday 0830-1630 Tuesday 0830-1630 Wednesday 0830-1230 Thursday 0830-1630 Any unforeseen closures will be Friday advertised on Closed the door
Monday 0830-1630 Tuesday 0830-1630 Wednesday 0830-1230 Thursday 0830-1630 Friday Closed
Army Library & Information Services
Please use the drop off box if we are closed
Keep and eye on information boards for other activities at the library ARMY LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICE MANSERGH LIBRARY
ARMY LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICE BARKER LIBRARY TEL: 05251 101128
TEL: 05241 842336
Easter at Sennelager & Barker Library Hop down for some Peter Rabbit themed games, crafts and competitions
3rd-13th April
Please note: Our regular opening times will vary over the Easter Bank Holiday period
Enter our competition to win cinema tickets and Peter Rabbit goodies
EASTER EGG PAINTING IN THE BIELEFELD LIBRARY TUESDAY 27 MARCH FROM 13:00 TO 18:00
Paint an egg for Easter Try various painting techniques and impress your family & friends – maybe a Easter gift for someone Draw and design a bunny Easter card Drinks and snacks will be available Choose your best painted egg – and enter our competition – prizes to be won! Get creative – come and join us!
ARMY LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICE
SENNELAGER LIBRARY BARKER LIBRARY
TEL: 05254 662 0630 TEL: 05251 101 128
Army Library and Information Service BielefeldName] Library Catterick Barracks Block 8 [Company 0521 925 43 123 biellib@alibs.detsa.co.uk
Sennelager & Barker Library Creative Writing and Drawing Competition What’s the story? Ages 4-6 - We want to see how creative you are! Submit your best drawing of Peter Rabbit. You do not have to replicate a picture; it can be as original as you would like to be.
SENNELAGER LIBRARY NAAFI Family Store, BFPO 16 Civilian: 05254 6620630 sennlib@alibs.detsa.co.uk Mon-Tue Wed-Fri
09:00-16:30 09:00-14:00
BIELEFELD LIBRARY Block 8, Catterick Barracks Mil: 97881 3123 Civilian: 0521 925 43 123 biellib@alibs.detsa.co.uk Mon, Tue & Thu 08:30-16:30 Wed 08:30-12.30
BARKER LIBRARY Barker Bks, Paderborn, BFPO22 Mil: 948 79 3128 Civilian: 0049 (0) 5251 101128 padelib@alibs.detsa.co.uk Monday to Friday 0830 – 1630
Ages 7-10 - Write your very own ‘The Tale of...’ inspired by ‘The Tale TM’
of Peter Rabbit . It could feature some of Beatrix Potter’s characters or you could invent your own. Your story could take the form of a story with illustrations, a comic strip, or a storyboard, as long as you use the template provided. Competition entries are only valid on a competition pack template, which are available at your local library.
Opening date – 19th March 2018 Closing date – 13th April
March April 2018.indd 43
GÜTERSLOH LIBRARY Mansergh Barracks, BFPO113 Civilian: 0049 (0) 5241 842336 Military: 94873 2336 manslib@alibs.detsa.co.uk Mon—Thurs 09:00 to 16:30 Friday 09:00 to 13:00
06/03/2018 14:08
NEED TO KNOW
UNREGISTERED CHILDMINDERS
A number of child minders may be providing unregistered childcare for children, without undergoing suitability checks, according to British Forces Early Years’ Service (BFEYS) BFEYS, which is responsible for registering and inspecting child minders for the MOD in Western Europe since 2002, say, that while the extent of unregistered child minding is not yet known, they would not be surprised if there were large numbers of people providing this service without having registered. Anyone who accepts payment for looking after children under the age of eight for more than two hours in any one day, and is not a relative of the child, must be registered with BFEYS and meet its inspection standards. A BFEYS spokesperson said: "Registration with BFEYS is vitally important to help ensure only suitable people are looking after young children and they are kept safe. A registered childminder will have undergone courses, including first aid training. They are regulated, to ensure care is safe and of a high standard. Parents using registered childcare can take advantage of tax free childcare to help with childcare costs.” The number of high profile cases in the UK media highlights the need for inspection and regulation of childcare. To become a registered childminder vetting checks are completed for all adults who live and work on the premises. Prior to registration, all child minding applicants must have a home visit by a BFEYS inspector, who checks the suitability of the premises and ensures the childminder has a good understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage; the statutory guidance for Early Years Provision. The inspector will also check that the childminder has completed essential courses and has insurance. “When we are told that someone might be an unregistered childminder, we inform them of the requirement to register as a childminder under the Children Act 2006 and under Standing Orders for the British Army in Germany SO BFG 3218. Sometimes it transpires that they are friends helping each other out without payment or they caring for a child for less than two hours. If someone cares for friend’s children either in their home or any other home, they do not need to register unless they are paid for doing this. Babysitting is another example of a private arrangement which does not require registration and is defined as care between 6pm and 2 am on domestic premises.” If you think that someone in your area is carrying out unregistered child minding please contact BFEYS. You can remain anonymous. British Forces Early Years Service Headquarters British Forces Germany British Forces Post Office 140 Tel: 0521 9254 ext 2668
March April 2018.indd 44
06/03/2018 14:08
NEED TO KNOW
RUSSIA WORLD CUP TRAVEL ADVICE WHAT The 2018 FIFA World Cup will take place in Russia from 14 June to 15 July 2018. There are 11 host cities and the geographical distance between some of them is vast, so travel and accommodation plans must be made well in advance. England has been drawn in Group G and will play Tunisia in Volgograd on 18 June, Panama in Nizhny Novgorod on 24 June, and Belgium in Kaliningrad on 28 June. See http://welcome2018.com/en/ It is expected that a number of SP and Defence employees have made plans to watch England play. FCO TOP TIPS The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has put together some top travel and safety tips to help fans travelling to Russia for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Go to https://www.gov. uk/guidance/be-on-the-ball-worldcup-2018 to inform yourself of the process of gaining a Fan-ID, travel visas, registering and how to acquire match tickets. The 11 Top Tip https:// www.gov.uk/government/uploads/
system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/621105/11_tops_tips_checklist.pdf checklist is a must visit before travel.
(CM) may also extend after the event if personal relationships are established.
THE THREAT TO SERVICE PERSONNEL AND DEFENCE EMPLOYEES
This is not only a danger to the SP/ Defence employee but also has the potential to cause reputational and UK relational damage.
Russia is a Country to which Special Security Regulations Apply (CSSRA). It is assessed as highly likely, that if SP and Defence employees make the nature of their employment known, they will be targeted. Targeting techniques include hacking and disrupting Personal Electronic Devices (PED) and trying to elicit information through social interaction (both online and face to face). SP and Defence employees must take reasonable precautions to guard against the continued threat from criminal gangs and football hooliganism as was seen during the Euro 2016 finals. It is highly likely that the use of alcohol will make personnel easier targets both to targeting and criminal activity. POTENTIAL IMPACT
DIRECTION All BFG based SP or Defence employees intending to go to Russia for the World Cup must complete a CSSRA notification. These should be completed by individual travellers under the guidance of Establishment Security Officers. Field 10 of the notification form includes a drop down menu – select Russia World Cup and additional fields will appear. These additional fields must be completed to meet Defence and Army HQ scrutiny prior to travel. G2 HQ BFG will oversee and direct the pre-briefing and debriefing process, and can provide further advice if required.
Compromise of SP/Defence employees and Classified Material
PUNCHlines March April 2018.indd 45
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SASRA
“
Many of the leaders overheard these young people talk openly about the Bible and Christianity.
YOUTH @ CHURCH HOUSE During the February half term, SASRA Germany held a youth @ Church House week which saw 16 young people come for four days to Church House Lubbeke. The team conceited of ASR Gavin Dickson and Pauline Dickson, Padres and SASRA members Richard Downes and Mike Thomason, Mrs Sue Thomason, SASRA Member SSgt Gerhard Olivier and Mark and Julie Byrnes with support from Community Support Gutersloh Warrant Officer Liam Saviour. It was wonderful to see so many young people engage with the Bible teaching delivered by Pauline. Pauline delivered four sessions of Bible teaching which centred on Identity in God and gave the young people, many of whom had never looked at a Bible before, the skills to navigate it and read it in its context. Sue Thomason took the young folk into nature to look at our identity in the world in Forest Church, where they were introduced to a tree and found a stick that
46
represented them. They then whittled all the rough parts off revelling the smooth underneath showing how God refines us. There were many fun activities including a trip to Escape Rooms where groups where looked up in a pirate ship and had to find gold to bribe their captors to escape. All the young people reported back on how much fun they had and expressed a real interest in doing it again. My highlight was seeing 16 boys and girls each with a Bible in hand engaged in what the Christian Faith is about, even seeing three girls come each morning to morning prayers. Many of the leaders overheard these young people talk openly about the Bible and Christianity which when you take into account that only five of the 16 were from known Church families is a real blessing.
PUNCHlines
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CHAPLAINS Father Ian evans CF Dep Assis Chaplain General Office: 05219 254 2491 Mobile: 0173 511 2080
Revd Heather Rendell CF BFG Fwd Chaplain/1PWRR Office: 05254 982 2033 Mobile: 01722 086347
DACG@MOD.IK
CHAPSCOORD@MOD.IK
BFG-HQ-G1-OPSPERS-CHAPS-
BFG-HQ-G1-OPSPER-
Revd Peter King CF 20 Armd Inf Bde Office: 05254 982 2051 Mobile: 01735 103404 20X-CHAPLAIN@MOD.UK
Revd Richard Downes CF Church House Warden Office: 05741 203 89 Mobile: 01722 595 317 BFG-HQ-BIESTN-CH-WARDEN@ MOD.UK
Church Services
St Peter’s Church Barker Barracks, Paderborn Protestant service every Sunday 1100hrs Including Junior Church
St Maximillian Kolbe Church Catterick Barracks, Bielefeld Protestant service every Sunday 0900hrs Roman Catholic service every Sunday 1700hrs
St Barbara’s Church Mansergh Barracks, Gütersloh Roman Catholic every service Sunday 0900hrs Protestant service every Sunday 1100hrs
Our Lady of Lourdes Church Normandy Barracks, Sennelager Roman Catholic service every Sunday 1100hrs Including Children’s Liturgy
1 PWRR Chaplain / Office: 05251 101 274 / Mobile: 01722 086 347 email: 1PWRR-HQ-PADRE@MOD.UK
RevdGraemeMcConvilleCF 26 Royal Artillery Office: 05251 101 559 Mobile: 01722 578 097 26RA-PADRE@MOD.UK
March April 2018.indd 47
RevdDanielCritchlowCF 35 Engr & 3CS Bn REME Office: 05251 101 932 Mobile: 01735 205 861 35ENGR-RHQ-PADRE@MOD. UK
Revd Justin Bradbury CF QRH & 1AMR Office: 05254 982 2966 Mobile: 01722 086 315 QRH-HQ-PADRE@MOD.UK
Asr Gavin Dickson Army Scripture Reader Office: 94879 3105 Mobile: 01735 340 135
BFG-HQ-G1-ARMYSCRIPT@ MOD.UK
06/03/2018 14:08
Useful
CONTACT NUMBERS MEDICAL AND DENTAL
Barker Bks Medical Centre 05251 101 256 Barker Bks Pharmacy 05251 101 026 Barker Bks Health Visitor 05251 101 142 MRS Sennelager 05254 982 2414 MRS Sennelager Pharmacy 05254 982 4985 MRS Sennelager Health Visitor 05254 982 4807 Barker Bks Dental Centre 05251 101 290 Normandy Bks Dental Centre 05254 982 2482 TAS 24 Hour Call Centre 0521 305 3961 Patient Support/Hospital Hotline 0800 588 9936
PADERBORN
GUARDROOMS
Athlone Bks 05254 982 2428 Barker Bks 05251 101 243 Dempsey Bks 05254 982 2328 Normandy Bks 05254 982 2232
STATION AMENITIES
Army Families Federation 01520 744 9741 Army Welfare Service 05254 982 4340 Community Link Officer 0173 517 3603 BFG Information Officer 05254 982 2105 PRI 05254 6621394 Service Liaison Officer 05254 982 3329 41 AEC 05254 982 4019
WRVS Barker Barracks 05251 101 229 Normandy Barracks 05254 982 2617 Dempsey Barracks 05254 982 4240
HOUSING (HSO)
Office Supervisor 05254 982 2411 General Enquires 05254 982 4435
SCHOOLS & NURSERIES
Sennelager 05254 9304723 Paderborn 05251 528609
SCE IT Helpline 0521 9254 3547 Bishopspark, Paderborn 05251 543 9548 Bishopspark FS1 05251 296 603 John Buchan, Sennelager 05254 982 5411 Attenborough, Sennelager 05254 982 2698 Acreswood Nursery, Paderborn 05251 878 1648 Happy Days Nursery Sennelager 05254 930 5160 Happy Hippos Sennelager 05254 930 5170 Teddy Bears FS1 05254 932 443 Childminding Co-ordinator 01722 115393
LABOUR SUPPORT UNIT (LSU)
TRANSPORT
CENTRAL BANK
Sennelager 05254 982 4193 Paderborn 05251 101 102 Central Bank HQ 05254 982 2948
HIVES
Sennelager 05254 982 2771 Paderborn 05251 57191
HOME-START
Customer Services 05254 982 5487 Recruiter 05254 982 2541 SCE Recruter 05254 982 2661 Registration Clerk 05254 982 5488 Vetting Clerk 05254 982 2389
POST OFFICES
Sennelager Sorting Office 05254 982 2572 Paderborn (Barker Bks) 05251 101 778
VEHICLE LICENSING OFFICE 05254 982 2638
Paderborn Bus Escort Supervisor 05254 982 2003 Admin Transport Service 05254 982 2842 Youth Club Transport 05254 982 4340
NAAFI STORES
Sennelager Families Store 05254 2602 Paderborn Families Store 05251 59200 Athlone Express Store 05254 6622144 Barker Express Store 05251 8729456 Dempsey Express Store 05254 940418 Normandy Express Store 05254 939126
If any of the details need to be updated, please contact us on punchlines.magazine@gmail.com 48
PUNCHlines
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SOS
German Civil Police 110 German Civil Ambulance (Medical Emergencies) 112 German Civil Fire 112 RMP (Emergencies Only) 05254 982 2222 Telephone Assessment Service (TAS) 0521 305 3961 Patient Support/Hospital Hotline 0800 588 9936 British Forces Social Work Service 0800 724 3176 RMP (Routine Calls) 05254 982 2223 Babcock 0800 888 4242
GUTERSLOH MEDICAL & DENTAL Medical Centre 05241 84 2272 Mansergh Dental Centre 05241 84 2208 TAS Service 24hr Call Centre 0521 305 3961 Patient Support/ Hospital Hotline 0800 588 9936 GUARDROOMS 05241 84 2203 GYM 05241 84 2299 NAAFI 05241 235 410
GUARDROOMS Catterick Barracks 0521 9254 3252 Rochdale Barracks 0521 9254 3413 GYM 0521 9254 3249 HOUSING 0521 9254 3108
Vehicle Inspections 05241 84 2281 WRVS 05241 84 2329 41 AEC 05254 982 4019
STATION AMENITIES Army Families Federation 01762 548 5762 Army Welfare Service 0521 9254 3200 Community Support Office 0521 9254 3217 BFG Information Officer 05254 982 2105 Hive 0521 9254 3122 Home-Start 0521 9254 3121 Army Legal Assistance 0521 9254 3196 Labour Support Unit (LSU) 0521 9254 3111 Library 0521 9254 3123 Vehicle Registration, Fuel & Mehrwertsteuer Office 0521 9254 2397 Post Office 0521 9254 3202
Vehicle Licensing Office 0521 9254 3729 Vehicle Inspections 0521 9254 3415 WRVS 0521 9254 3167 Bielefeld PRI Shop 05254 6621394 41 AEC 05254 982 4019
HOUSING 05241 84 3949 SCHOOLS & NURSERIES SCE Helpline 0521 9254 3547 Haig Primary School 05241 84 3840 King's School 05241 84 2210 Little Chicks Day Nursery 05241 21 0868
SCHOOLS SCE Helpline 0521 9254 3547 Bielefeld Primary School 0521 9254 3840 King's School 05241 84 2210 Butterflies Nursery 0521 201 7252
BIELEFELD
MEDICAL & DENTAL Medical Centre 0521 9254 3131 Routine Dental 0521 9254 3161 TAS 24 Hour Call Centre 0521 305 3961 Patient Support Officer/ Hospital Hotline 0800 588 9936
STATION AMENITIES Army Families Federation 01762 548 5762 Army Welfare Service 05241 84 3959 BFG Information Officer 05254 982 2105 Hive 05241 84 2220 Home-Start 05241 84 3957 Labour Support Unit (LSU) 05241 84 2361 Library 05241 84 2336 Post Office 05241 84 2280 Vehicle Licensing Office 05241 84 2882
NAAFI 0521 201 7235
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Crossword 1
2
3
4
5
6
Sudoku 9
4
10
15
8
14
24
26
21
2 4
19
18 23
20
7
27
30
6 8 4 1
28 29
31
Logic Problem
1. Extreme effects of a new broom? (8,7) 7. Compile too many crosswords? (7) 9. In a state? No I tan easily on return (6) 10. Goddess of compilers? (5) 11. Do not root around Canadian city (7) 13. Partly hid each thought (4) 14. Require the French to cause ill feeling (6) 16. How a democracy selects it’s military leaders? (7,8) 23. Commander takes away outside shot at empty regiment for body of troops (6) 26. Pop when fossil fuel is mixed (4) 27. More satisfied given a laugh tuppence and an example right (7) 28. What I had ordered to melt (4) 29. Transfer knowledge of devilish painting (6) 30. Song troupe needed for flying start (7) 32. Book and a pen for novelist (9,6)
Notes:
Liberia
32
Across
5 1
9
25 21
8
Down 1. Seeing sinking ball in con (7) 2. By leaving berry I make a mistake (3) 3. 13a is returning it in middle of day (6) 4. Searched for endless rolling thunder (6) 5. Inert nut smashed can provide sustenance (8) 6. Footwear worn in dances and all parties (6) 8. Nosier confused and older (6) 12. Horse ran having swalled nothing (4) 15. Slippery customer sheltered on return (3) 17. Part of keyboard one is after raising up (8) 18. Sign left by the King of the Jungle (3) 19. Crazy race politician entered as an outsider (6) 20. King of the Jews found in sin rising (4) 21. Ran backwards before canoeist to get slimmer (8) 22. Second credit one politician took in order to save (6) 24. Luxury stolen but returned (3,3) 25. Sound made when starting to hit with controlled kicking (6) 31. Church I visit for spiritual energy (3)
December
22
19
9
October
17
18
7
September
17
2
3
16 16
2 1
August
14
13
February
12
3 5
Yemen
12
Uganda
11
7
Oman
8
New Zealand
7
210000 BCE 180000 BCE 150000 BCE 120000 BCE 90000 BCE February August September October December
Lynne is a doctoral student at Glasgow University. She studies aerial survey maps from all over the world looking for previously unknown ancient meteor impact craters. Using only the clues below, match each impact crater to its estimated year of impact and country, and determine the month in which it was found. Clues 1. The feature in Uganda is believed to be 90,000 years older than the feature discovered in December. 2. The feature in New Zealand was dated to 210,000 B.C.E..
Scrabble Dabble
N 2 I 1 P4 D2 E 1 L 2 S 1 How many words of 3 letters or more can you make using the Scrabble letters above. There is at least one seven letter word. Target: Fair 5, Good 10, Excellent 15 words.
March April 2018.indd 50
3. The crater in Uganda is believed to be 60,000 years older than the crater in Yemen. 4. The feature in Yemen wasn’t discovered in August. 5. The feature in Oman was either the crater discovered in September or the feature that was dated to 120,000 B.C.E.. 6. The crater in Uganda was found in February.
Answers available via email: punchlines.magazine@gmail.com
06/03/2018 14:08
THE NEW RANGE ROVER VELAR
NO HEADLINE REQUIRED landrover.com
For further information, please contact us: Head Office Jaguar Land Rover Military Sales, Kronberg im Taunus, 06173 3271-214, agarnell@jaguarlandrover.com Nigel Palin / Steve Key, Paderborn, 05254 935 00 -15/-22/-23, nigel.palin@grantandgreen.de / steve.key@grantandgreen.de
Fuel consumption in mpg: 45.6 – 22.2 (urban); 57.7 – 37.7 (extra-urban); 52.5 – 30.1 (combined); carbon dioxide emissions in g/km: 254 – 142; carbon dioxide efficiency class: E – A; RL 80/1268/EEC. Image includes optional equipment.
March April 2018.indd 51
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AMAZING VAUXHALL NEW INSIGNIA HONDA INSIGNIA DEAL DEAL GRAND SPORT 5DR HATCHBACK Astra 1.6 16v VVT SRi Sport Hatch • Sports interior • Air con • Privacy glass • Radio CD with Aux-in socket • Sports suspension in socket • Upgrade to 18” sports alloy wheels and low profile tyres for £849
Was £9,995 Now £8,995 Inc Metallic Paint & LHD lights Last 2 remaining!
DESIGN NAV 1.6 136PS TURBO D ecoTec Antara 2WD & 4WD • Alloy wheels • Air con • Heated front seats • Front fog lights • Rear privacy glass • Aux-in socket
£16,995
BUYBACK £15,495
INCLUDING: FRONT & REAR PARKING SENSORS UPGRADE, From £12,895 METALLIC PAINT
MAGE ON YOUR PART AVAILABILITY ER THE PHONE IN THE UK!
and examined, ensuring that you art Exchange!
:
FROM STOCK FOR QUICK DELIVERY! – CHECK FOR AVAILABILTY
250+ USED CARS For further assistance please contact one of our Car Sales Advisors at Sennelager NAAFI Families Shop: Come and visit us
in your local NAAFI Families Store: Sennelager (05254) 86931
E: Dan Marsh; dmarsh@naafi.co.uk | Kevin Peers; kpeers@naafi.co.uk T: 0049 (0) 5254 86 931
www.naafi.co.uk/cars EST. 1920
Prices shown are based on the entry level. All comparison prices are current online selling RRP as of 21/09/17. Offer applies only to BF(G) entitled personnel. All details correct at time of publication and are subject to being withdrawn or changed without notice. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. Images shown for illustrative purposes only. Please speak to your NAAFI Car Sales Advisor for more details.
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