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OIC & Editor:
Sqn Ldr Chris Wilson
Chris.wilson610@mod.gov.uk
Deputy Editor :
Mrs Sarah Jones
sarah.jones830@mod.gov.uk
Article submission deadline for the next issue... 28th Jan 2025
Please send all articles for the Spring 2025 edition to sarah.jones830@mod.gov.uk
RAF Cosford welcomes Chief of the Air Staff and Warrant Officer of the Royal Air Force
STEM News
Cosford Motorcycle Club News
RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC)
Premier League Truce Tournament
Spooky Postroom
FOREWORD
BY WING COMMANDER PENNY BRADY CHARTERED MCIPD MA BSC RAF
Welcome to the Winter 2024 edition of the Cosford Apprentice.
As we rapidly approach the festive season, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the many fantastic achievements of our personnel during 2024.
Once again, Cosford has successfully trained or supported the training of many thousands of personnel, delivering despite resource challenges; however, it is what our people achieve outside of their core roles that is worthy of celebration. Sporting achievements, a successful Cosford Air Show, honours and awards in the New Year’s and King’s Birthday honours lists, high profile visits, the list goes on. None of our successes are possible without the hard work of our whole force personnel or the support of their family and friends and for that I thank you. In this edition of the Apprentice Magazine, you will find articles on some of these high-profile visits. We were fortunate to be visited by the Chief of the Air Staff in October, followed by a successful joint Annual Formal Inspection by Air Officer Commanding 2 Group and Air Officer Commanding 22
Group. We also celebrate Ailidh Leather’s ASTRA Team Award, which recognises her work in digitising the Cosford Post Room – a first in Defence. There are also sports articles and updates as well as an article on the Hive Information Service, which turns 40 this year. As I write this, the Unit has spent the weekend in remembrance of those that have lost their lives serving their country, with parades and wreaths laid across the local area. Armistice Day itself was marked with a service outside of Station Headquarters. With a busy few weeks ahead in the run up to Christmas I hope you all take the opportunity to take some time off over the festive season. I am acutely aware that some of our personnel are deployed over this period and my thoughts and heartfelt thanks goes to them and their families; deployments can be difficult at any time of the year, but particularly at Christmas but our welfare services and Community Support Team are on hand to offer support as needed. Please do take advantage of the many activities taking place on station and across the region over the coming weeks and I look forward to seeing you all in the New Year. I wish you a peaceful and restful festive season.
FROM THE EDITOR
As always, another jam-packed issue with great content from across RAF Cosford. From annual formal inspections to Remembrance activity, from Chinooks to Watchman Radars, there is something for everyone.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this edition and thank you once again to everyone who has contributed throughout 2024.
I hope you and your families all have a fun and relaxing Christmas.
ASTRA AWARDS
Ailidh Leather attended the prestigious ASTRA Awards ceremony on 17th October 2024 at the RAF Museum, London.
Ailidh has been the lead for Project POST ROOM at RAF Cosford, which uses scanning technology to significantly enhance the experience of the Post Room staff and the hundreds of recipients on station.
Several years ago, she was faced with the difficult but necessary decision to remove a system that failed to meet essential data protection standards, forcing the team to revert to handwritten ledgers. With increasing amounts of parcels due to online shopping, the post room became overwhelmed, causing significant delays in items reaching their intended recipients.
Recognising the need for technology to process the increasing mail flow she embarked on a challenging search for a system that would not only streamline operations in the post room but also fully comply with GDPR regulations. She struggled to gain traction for the project and after two years of trying, she sought assistance from ASTRA to move forward.
Her persistence, determination, and forward thinking (and her ability to hold senior leaders to account!) have ensured that the project has reached the position it is in today despite numerous setbacks. Through her tenacity, the project is making a real difference to the lives of personnel at Cosford, with an extension to the project already in place at RAF Lossiemouth and the potential for it to be rolled out wider across the RAF.
Ailidh has been awarded the ASTRA Team Award for all her hardwork and dedication towards such a demanding and lengthy project.
Well done, Ailidh!
EMPOWERING SERVICE PERSONNEL
& Training
On 26 September, the Training Learning Centre team, alongside FD Flt, visited TSW Stafford for an engaging and informative day. Throughout the visit, Service personnel eagerly sought guidance on a range of services, from securing funding for further education to resettlement entitlements.
Our dedicated team, Lorraine Chatterton and Alison Caine provided in-depth briefings on the ELCAS website, assisted with account setups, and guided attendees through the process of making their ELC claims. They also offered advice on applying for SLCs and shared essential information on resettlement procedures, including how to book a briefing and access available funding.
Service members learned that their course selections in resettlement don’t need to benefit military service, opening up a world of possibilities for training and education in civilian life.
Additionally, Sgt Dan Wallace was available to discuss the wide range of courses offered by FD Flt. He also provided one-onone consultations about Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD), even offering on-the-spot testing for anyone concerned about SpLD.
It was an inspiring day, dedicated to helping Service personnel take the next steps in their educational and professional journeys!
cos-tlclearningcentre@mod.gov.uk
FROM THE CHAPLAINCY
There were once a group of students learning how to shoot. On the day of test, they were asked to aim at the eye of a bird. When all students took their position, the teacher asked them, ‘What do you see?’
One student said, ‘I can see the bird’.
Another said, ‘I can see the tree on which the bird is sitting.’
Yet another said, I can see the branch on which the bird is sitting’.
Then came the turn of the final student to answer the question – and he said, ‘I can see nothing but the eye of the bird’.
At this the teacher smiled and said, ‘Only your aim will hit the target’, and so it did.
This story beautifully illustrates the power of focus and its crucial role in achieving goals. Just like the final student, who saw only the eye of the bird and
successfully hit his target, our ability to concentrate on the most important aspect of our objective can determine whether or not we succeed.
When distractions arise, whether they are internal like emotions or external like noise and interruptions, they can pull us away from what truly matters. However, focus isn’t just about tuning everything else out; it’s about knowing when and where to apply that focus. There are times when a narrow focus is needed to achieve precision and clarity. At other times, it’s important to broaden our perspective, to see the bigger picture and understand the context of our goals or challenges.
The ability to shift between focus and defocus is essential to personal growth. Being overly focused on one aspect, like a specific goal or emotion, can blind us to the bigger picture. For instance, an angry person is often consumed by their anger, unable
to see beyond their frustration to consider different viewpoints or solutions. In such cases, focus can become a limitation rather than an asset.
True mastery lies in the ability to consciously direct our focus, using it as a tool rather than being controlled by it. When we learn to zoom in on what matters most and zoom out to gain perspective, we can move forward with purpose and flexibility. It’s this balance - knowing when to focus and when to step back - that leads
to progress, helping us make thoughtful decisions and avoid getting stuck in narrow thinking. Ultimately, human development is about cultivating the skill to control our attention, allowing us to see the details that matter while also keeping the bigger picture in view. The question isn’t just whether we can focus, but whether we can direct that focus wisely - whether we control it or let it control us.
Once someone wisely said, “The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.”
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HIVE’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY
This year, HIVE is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of dedicated support to the Service community. Since the opening of the first location in Hohne, Germany, in 1984, HIVE has made significant strides in providing essential services.
The celebrations commenced with a 40th Anniversary Launch Event held in June at the MOD Main Building in London. Army HIVE, RAF HIVE, and Royal Navy Family & People Support (formerly RN HIVE) hosted guests from across the MOD and external stakeholders.
The audience was treated to a video showcasing HIVE’s history, created by Chris Keen of Totally Keen Creative, featuring old and new photos, as well as customer anecdotes from over the 40 years.
Head of Army HIVE, Nikki Peterson, reflected on HIVE’s journey:
“I have had the pleasure of working for HIVE for almost 20 years and was involved even longer as a customer during my time in service and as an Army spouse.
“Over the past 40 years, HIVE has supported the military community in many ways. Our information delivery is centred around our network of local information centres located worldwide, providing valuable face-to-face support. Equally important are our various online platforms, our ability to support outreach through unit and community events, our remote international HIVE service, and much more for our customers.”
VIP guest Air Commodore Wendy Rothery also spoke at the event: “I would like to pay tribute to everyone who has been involved with the HIVE over the past 40 years. Thanks to them, accurate, reliable, and most importantly, trusted information has reached our people when they needed it most. From helping Service families prepare for an overseas move, supporting our community during operational deployments,
to signposting specialist support agencies.”
The event also featured an array of cakes on sale to kick-start the 40th Anniversary fundraising for HIVE’s chosen charity partners –Celebrating Forces Families and Operation Christmas Box. The showpiece anniversary cake was kindly provided by the Queen’s Gurkha Engineers catering team, based in Maidstone.
HIVE is proud to continue as the MOD’s primary information provider, supporting the Service community for 40 years. The ethos of our volunteer founders in Germany remains at the core of what HIVE still do today –providing the right information and support, right when it’s most needed, from a trusted Defence organisation.
Head RAF HIVE Service – Nerys Bell BEM
CYBER SECURITY FLIGHT: National Cyber Awards Nomination and Awards Ceremony
It is not every day you get to strut down the streets of London as a nominee for one of the biggest awards in the cyber security world. But that is exactly what happened to No 1RS’ Cyber Security Flight (CSF), who recently found themselves nominated for the prestigious National Cyber Awards in Sep 2024.
The Nomination “Wait. Us?”
Nomination for the awards was a culmination of efforts over the previous 12 months. The team have been working hard to incorporate the Cyber Foundation Pathway (CFP) into No 1RS’ delivery portfolio. CFP is the Defence standard for foundationlevel cyber training, and run out of the Defence Cyber Academy, hosted at Defence Academy Shrivenham.
The team originally had the aim of minimising the duplication in training that personnel in the Cyberspace profession do, but actually, this aim ended up evolving into much more! Through thorough examination, it was discovered that approximately 70% of the Cyberspace Profession basic training course had an overlap with the CFP content. As such, the team worked tirelessly to get the approvals needed to be able to map the Cyberspace course against CFP. In easy terms – the content was the same, let us not make them do the course again, even if it is called something slightly different!
Integration with Defence Cyber Academy (DCA)
For the other 30% missing from the CFP, No 1RS has established a franchise with the DCA to deliver their content. This was seamlessly integrated within the Cyberspace profession course. However, this achieved a number
of firsts for the school. As part of the accreditation process, No 1RS instructors had to deliver material at the DCA to their audience. Only then could No 1RS deliver. Cpl John Fowlie and Cpl Dan Kellam were the first instructors from No 1 RS to deliver specialist cyber content at the DCA, a huge achievement in itself!
The Big Event: National Cyber Awards
As a result of this work, and the nomination, Sqn Ldr Adam Mabbott, FS Gaz Cocklin and Sgt Gaz Ward were selected to attend the event in London, showcasing some of the exceptional work done within the Cyber field across the UK. Although CSF were nominated in the ‘MOD Cyber’ category, some of the work being carried out across the wider UK was nothing short of inspiring. Arriving at the National Cyber
Awards in style – or as stylishly as you can after a brisk march through central London – the team was ready to represent the RAF. The ceremony was a celebration of all things cyber, with lots to take away. Cyber Security Flight did not take home the top prize this time, but being nominated alongside the biggest names in the industry was a win in itself. A huge congratulations has to go to Sqn Ldr Carolyn Swinney, CO 591SU for her win and the exceptional work she has completed with the Unit.
The Aftermath A No 1RS Robot?
Although disappointing not to win, the nomination was a huge source of pride for the team. Win or not, the work that has been conducted will not only provide a greater level of training to the Cyberspace Profession, but
increase the pool of trained cyber personnel available to Defence. And that is not withstanding the greatest achievement of the trip…next time you visit No 1RS, come and see if you can find someone who maybe was not there before…
Cpl John Fowlie – delivering at DCA.
NO 1 RS AND WCIT AFFILIATION
On 18 September 24, Number 1 Radio School (No1 RS) hosted a visit from representatives of the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists (WCIT).
The visit was the culmination of a number of months of hard work and collaboration between the WCIT and No1 RS, resulting in the signing of a letter of affiliation between the two organisations. The letter of affiliation is an agreement in principle between the Master of Livery, Mrs Kerri Mansfield and OC No1 RS, Wg Cdr Angelina Littlefield to work together for the benefit of both organisations, sharing knowledge by raising
awareness of each other’s roles and experiences, supporting future opportunities for No1 RS personnel to gain professional development through the WCIT and contributing to mutual charitable endeavours.
The affiliation is one of many the WCIT have with the military, starting with the recognition of a formal relationship with the British Army’s Royal Corps of Signals in 1992. The Joint Forces Cyber Group (JFCG) affiliated in 2017, changing to an MoD affiliation in 2020 for MoD Cyber
which resulted in the inclusion of Defence Digital and the National Cyber Force. In 2020 the WCIT also agreed an affiliation with HMS Collingwood and now with the No1 RS affiliation they are supporting Tri-Service activity. The WCIT also signed the Armed Forces Covenant in July 2022 further confirming their commitments to the Armed Forces.
It is envisaged that future events will be held where the WCIT can showcase the knowledge and skillsets of their varied
membership and the School can provide a military context that many members of the Livery will be unfamiliar with.
Also present at the signing were the No1 RS Chief of Staff, Mr James Ratcliff, WCIT No1 RS relationship manager, Mr Mike Lyons, No1 RS OC Trainee Management Support Squadron, Sqn Ldr Andy Beard and Flt Lt Gav Walker, formerly No1 RS OC Engineering Support Flight whose work on the project was instrumental in getting it off the ground.
WATCHMAN RADAR
DECOMMISSIONING CEREMONY, NO.1 RADIO SCHOOL, RAF COSFORD
On 11 September 2024, No.1 Radio School marked a significant milestone in its proud history. The School’s iconic Watchman Radars – for so long a prominent fixture at its RAF Cosford home – were switched off for the final time at a decommissioning ceremony arranged to bring down the curtain on this long-running No.1 Radio School preemployment training for technicians assigned to maintain the equipment.
Assembling for a landmark event, staff members past and present were joined by guests to celebrate this decades-long staple of No.1 Radio School’s training offer for RAF Trade Group 4 Technicians. Hosted by OC No.1 Radio School, the ceremony was afforded an informative speech on the history of the Watchman Radar by the RAF Battlespace Management Principal Engineer, followed by permission being granted by the RAF Digital Deputy Director to halt the radars spinning. The ensuing lull presented a somewhat poignant moment for the many staff and technicians whose support for the equipment often spanned decades of hands-on familiarity.
As the RAF modernises its airtraffic management capabilities
under a transformation programme, the Watchman Radars used for training may have reached the end of their lifespan but retain a special place in the hearts of so many staff and trainees whose emotional attachment to the
equipment is considerable. Now commemorated formally through the renaming of a No.1 Radio School briefing facility in their name, an enduring chapter in the rich heritage of No.1 Radio School is assured for the Watchman Radars.
ANNUAL FIREWORK DISPLAY
On 4th November we hosted our annual firework display. With lots of our whole force personnel and families who came along to enjoy the spectacular display.
IRemembrance Events
Derby County FC
had been in touch with the Club regarding the opportunity to attend and be part of the pre-match Remembrance arrangements at Derby County FC. The Club responded and requested 6 or 7 RAF personnel to be part of their ‘on-pitch presentation’ and subsequently watch the match vs Plymouth. I put this opportunity to the Stn Football Team and 4 volunteers stepped forward, I also gained 2 Cpl volunteers from my AOR who had done a good job on State Opening of Parliament.
Following a 1hr 15 journey, we assembled in the Northwest Corner of Pride Park Stadium, joining a group of 6 Derbyshire submariners of HMS Ambush Royal Navy, 6 current serving and veterans from Mercian Regiment, as well as members of the Club, who had served or had family who had served. Ten minutes to kick-off, we were all led out from the corner and onto the pitch, along the North stand behind the goal and along the East stand, receiving a heartwarming applause from supporters in the stands. We lined up along the touchline, either side of the halfway line, before the teams came out and poppy wreaths were paraded out by a Club veteran and the Club owner, these were laid on the centre spot and the last post played followed by a moments silence, which was very well observed by the entire ground.
Once complete, we were led back off the pitch and were then shown to our seats to watch the match. Early into the game we were treated to a goal from an overhead kick by Derby’s main striker, but Derby conceded later in the half to make the match finish in a draw. The 7 of us enjoyed the unique experience and the reception from the fans
Wreath Making
In commemoration of Remembrance, RAFAKidz nursery children and staff handmade a poppy wreath.
These types of activities help educate the children about remembrance but also is an enjoyable activity for all. We think this wreath was the best one laid in remembrance. Great job and thank you RAFAKidz.
was brilliant! Thanks goes to Cpl’s Hewitt and Makin, AR’s Akingbade, Carroll, Collier-Holland and Holcombe for their support in attending this event. It was a great day, and hopefully next year we are able to continue to support.
Written by Flt Lt Stu Manley
Remembrance Parades
Remembrance was a busy time for RAF Cosford personnel with attendances to Remembrance parades across the region including the RAF Museum Midlands.
On Sunday 10th November, RAF Cosford Station Commander, Wg Cdr Penny Brady laid a wreath on behalf of everyone at RAF Cosford in the village of Albrighton, our closest neighbours.
Monday 11th November, we came together on station to commemorate those who have fought before us for our nation and made the ultimate sacrifice,
but also those currently deployed on global operations away from their loved ones.
Chief Technician Buckley, member of the RAF Cosford Voluntary Band sounded the bugle call for the last post and Group Captain Liz O’Sullivan led the wreath laying.
In the week prior to remembrance, we also released 17 videos across all 3 of our social media platforms, with personnel from across the station explaining why they wear their poppy for remembrance. This project was a great moment of reflection
for us all and bought home the importance of wearing our poppy each year. A special thank you goes to those that volunteered but particularly the Station Photographic Section for their hard work towards the project.
TRAINING MISSION CHINOOK
On Monday 21st October, staff and students from RAF Cosford had the opportunity to fly on two Chinooks from RAF Benson.
The Chinook crew from 28 Squadron were taking part in a final operational conversion training exercise. RAF Cosford personnel were used as passengers on the aircraft and simulated exercising troops getting on and off the helicopters.
This activity provided excellent training for the Chinook pilots and rear crew and gave our students valuable insight into rotary aviation.
ANNUAL FORMAL INSPECTION
Late October, saw AOC 2 Gp, AVM Jase Appleton and AOC 22 Gp, AVM Cab Townsend, conduct a joint Annual Formal inspection of RAF Cosford.
The inspection allowed them to meet a wide range of personnel and trainees, view the training and domestic facilities and understand the challenges that are being faced across the station.
THE VETERANS CHARITY FORCES MARCH
The Veterans Charity are a charity based in Barnstable who provide support to those who have served with the Armed Forces. They are a small charity that operate nationally and provide assistance such as the provision of essentials such as food and clothing, utilities support as well as items including appliances and smartphones.
2025 will see the reintroduction of the Forces March. This is a legendary World War 2 training march from Ilfracombe, Devon to Bulford, Wiltshire. The event is held over 5 consecutive days and spans ~140 miles starting in the North Devon coast town of Ilfracombe. The route then heads out across Exmore, into rural Somerset into Wiltshire via Salisbury plain before finishing up in Bulford.
The Forces March on ten previous occasions and since 2010, the event has become a benchmark test of endurance, determination, and camaraderie.
Trophies are named in honour of some very special people and are awarded for various categories including Most Outstanding Female (The Sarah Bryant Trophy), Most Outstanding Male (The Mark Hale Trophy), Most Outstanding Military Team (The Michael Massy-Beresford Cup), Overcoming Adversity (The Ben Parkinson Trophy), Community Spirit (The Lee Rigby Cup), Most Outstanding Crew (The Peter French Award) and Top Fundraising Team (The Protective Security Trophy) and Individual (The Vince Wellington Award).
The Forces March is enjoyed by serving military, Veterans, civilians and both corporate and emergency services teams. Participants join either as individuals or as a team, running or walking to follow in the footsteps of the heroes of WW2.
The Veterans Charity | United Kingdom | Veterans Charity Sign up can be done via the web link to the VC below:
RAF Cosford welcomes Chief of the Air Staff and Warrant Officer of the Royal Air Force
Early October, we welcomed Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Knighton and Warrant Officer of the Royal Air Force, WO Subramaniam to RAF Cosford.
They visited various areas across station, 605 Squadron and from within the Defence School of Aeronautical Engineering which enabled them to engage with personnel and gauge a good understanding of life at Cosford.
During their visit, CAS also officially opened the all new ‘COSLounge’ facility where personnel are able to relax and enjoy some downtime in between training.
STEM is a UK wide initiate to inspire and encourage young people to learn new skills and empower them when making decisions in careers. Employment in Stem related roles has increased. 15 out of 20 job roles now specify advanced mathematics or scientific skills.
Getting involved in STEM
STEM is a UK wide initiative to inspire and mo-tivate young people in Science, Engineering, Technolo-gy, Maths. This is achieved through organised activi-ties with schools, colleges and STEM employers.
At RAF Cosford we are teaching the current generation, how about inspiring the next generation. There is an active STEM network of volunteers who support organised activities such as the ‘Build a Glider Challenge’ which is run by RAF Cosford STEM Ambassadors in schools throughout Staffordshire and Shropshire.
STEM at RAF Cosford is supported at the highest level as it is seen as an excellent way not only to encourage future engineers but also to promote the Royal Air Force as a career option.
Being a STEM Ambassador is a rewarding and enjoyable role. Before signing up as a STEM Ambassador you can get involved by volunteering some of your time and knowledge. There is no obligation to sign up as a STEM Ambassador if you feel it’s not for you. Have a look at the calendar on the main STEM Net page to see all activities that are currently organised.
If there are any that you wish to volunteer for contact either the activity ProjO or OC STEM. Find out more about the process of becoming a STEM Am-bassador - Becoming a STEM Ambassador, STEM Ambassa-dor InductionRequired Docs.
ST JOHN’S SCHOOL BRIDGNORTH ROCKET WORKSHOP
This was a classic workshop for Cosford STEM team, using the Mindsets Rocket equipment, we provided the perfect activity that backed up Years 1 & 5 ‘Space’ week. The session started with a Q&A on what they knew about space, which for both years I have to say was impressive. Once we had talked about the planets and of course their favourites we moved onto how we go to see them and walk on the moon.
They really came alive when we talked about the moon landing, telling us all about how and more impressively who landed on the surface. It was easy from there to introduce the plan for the morning… .making a rocket of their own. We did talk about ideal shapes for the fins streamlined, didn’t stop hearts and letters being used anyway which we loved. We quickly made our rockets
with enough time to colour the fins and rocket bodies to make them as individual as possible. After a break we went onto the playground to fire off their creations at the target.
Every rocket flew really well, and they all got behind each other shouting a 3…2…1…. FIRE, I do hope the other lessons didn’t suffer they were so loud ha ha. They were that loud I had a high decibel warning on my watch, good effort kids well done.
21
STEM events have resulted in 18,000 Students engaging during the events
Why am I a STEM Ambassador?
By Chf Tech Adam Edwards
1. How long have you been a STEM Ambassador? Just a little over 2 years.
2. What made to want to be a STEM ambassador?
I never really went out thinking I want to be a STEM ambassador. It was more colleagues who were ambassadors were doing activities and needed some help, so I volunteered. I enjoyed helping out, so I decided to become a STEM ambassador.
3. How rewarding is it being an ambassador?
Seeing the development of the young people is the most rewarding. When you can see the “penny drop” during an activity is the best part. Also, some of the solutions to the challenges given at times are brilliant out of the box ideas.
4. What have you gained from being a STEM Ambassador? (What have you learnt personally from it)
I’ve got into coding more as quite a lot of activities are base around simple coding functions. This is something I use to be interested in but over the years I lost touch.
5. If anyone was thinking of becoming a STEM Ambassador, what advice would you give them? Get involved. Talk to ambassadors you know to see what it is about.
6. Are there any specific events that have stood out you that have really made you proud of what was achieved?
Recently helped out with the Jon Egging Trust Blue Skies programme where activities are run for a small group of Year 8 students from a local school to develop here teamwork and communica-tion. Using STEM activities to do this over the course of the 3 events seeing the students grow.
JON EGGING TRUST BLUE SKIES PROGRAMME
The last year Cosford STEM team have been part of the Blue Skies Programme. Blue Skies is a 3-year incentive, targeted at young people aged 12+ who are underachieving at school and a risk of falling out of education due to life challenges and under-confidence.
As part of the 23/24-year Cosford ran 3 events for 2 local secondary schools, Hadley Learning Community and Charlton School. From making Foam Board Gliders to overcoming challenges using MTa kits and Command Leadership Tasks saw the students enjoy themselves, while gaining new skills and increased confideence.
NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE INDUSTRY DAY– RAF SYERSTON
On 21 August, RAF Cosford STEM team took part in the National Air and Space Industry Day at RAF Syerston, which reached over 1100 cadets, 250 Cadet Forces Adult Volunteers, and 79 Industry and Military VIPs. Cosford STEM
team brought different activities such as building gliders and paper airplanes with the added fun of firing them at targets with our very own electronic launcher.
Although not the aim of RAF
Cosford STEM, many cadets also came by to speak with our stand in-quiring about joining the RAF in the future, asking about various roles including engineering, RAF regiment and logistics.
RAF COSFORD MOTORCYCLE CLUB
2024 had been an active year for the Motorcycle Club already but with two rides remaining on the schedule, it wasn’t over quite yet!
RIDE TO THE WALL
Aiming to raise money for the National Memorial Arboretum, RTTW brings together thousands of bikers offering them an opportunity to ride as a large group to the NMA where a heartfelt Remembrance service takes place. Riding motorcycles has always been a popular activity amongst HM forces personnel and is something that often persists as an interest after leaving. The camaraderie of a club can be a welcome one after leaving the Service and numerous biker organisations work with veterans to support mental health and help with PTSD. With so many Serving and Veteran Armed Forces personnel in the biker community, its unsurprising that RTTW has become a staple late-season event on the calendar and an essential one for us to attend!
Nine riders from Cosford assembled at the M54 Telford Services along with hundreds of other bikers to take part in the parade ride and what a ride it was! Sunny, dry conditions meant we could all wear our summer gear and enjoy a leisurely cruise. With junctions closed by marshals along the route, we had a clear run all the way to the NMA. There’s nothing quite like riding with so many other bikes; the noise and atmosphere are utterly indescribable!
Once safely at the NMA we gathered at the RAFA memorial garden for a group photo before going our separate ways to meet up with other colleagues or simply have some alone-time to remember friends and loved ones. We regrouped for a moving Remembrance ceremony which culminated in a flypast by the BBMF’s Lancaster.
One of our own number, Matthew “Rex” Farrar had his
name added to the wall in 2023 after he tragically lost his life in 2022 whilst racing with the RAF Motorsport Team. A larger-than-life character and a huge supporter of the Cosford Motorcycle and MotoX clubs, his contribution cannot be understated, and it has become tradition for us to gather at the wall to pay special respect to him before parting ways and riding home.
by Sgt Alex Woods
Turn over for details of our second ride...
RAF COSFORD MOTORCYCLE CLUB
“PASSES, PEAKS AND BOUNCING BOMBS”
Our final Force Development ride of the season was to be our most ambitious; a ride through Staffordshire and Derbyshire via the sites of x9 WW2 air crash sites, culminating at the Derwent Dam, where 617sqn practiced dropping Bouncing Bomb for Operation Chastise. Taking in a few “biker-nirvana” roads, such as the Snake and Winnets pass along the way, the route proved a popular one and we had no problem filling all 12 rider slots.
Alas, the weekend before the ride, our luck ran out with the forecasted balmy weather changing to heavy rain. Not long after, attendees began dropping out, citing the weather or issues with their bikes and in the end, only 6 of us lined up for the off on the day. It may have been grey and overcast but only a slight drizzle dampened our enthusiasm as we left for our first destination, the site of former RAF Ashbourne.
Once clear of the morning rushhour traffic, the rain stopped, and our spirits began to rise. As we hit the rural roads of Staffordshire, we really started to enjoy ourselves and began pressing-on to reach
the Runway Café in good time. Based on RAF Ashbourne’s former technical site, this biker friendly hangout celebrates the history of the WW2 base and is decorated with memorabilia and pictures of the Blenheim, Albemarle and Whitley bombers that were based there.
Suitably breakfasted, we headed over the Derbyshire border to our second stop, the Wellington BJ652 memorial in Middleton.
From here, things began to go wrong again. The closer we got, the worse the weather conditions became. Thick fog descended as the elevation of the roads increased and visibility declined badly. It became tricky to see the rider in front, bends in the road came out of nowhere and condensation clung to our visors. Far from ideal conditions!
We pulled off the road to discuss the situation. Although
not forecast, the fog was a real problem and information online suggested it would not abate until the elevation of the roads began to reduce-which wouldn’t happen along our route until mid-afternoon.
Visibility became so poor that the risk of a car pulling out of a junction ahead of us was high, especially for those of us not equipped with auxiliary lights. The question was, would the fog continue or was it localised? Given how much planning had gone into the ride, we didn’t want to give up and turn around but also, we couldn’t ignore the increased risks. We decided on a compromise; as we were only a short distance away, we opted to continue to our next stop before deciding.
On 21 January 1944 an Australian crewed Wellington BJ652 took off from RAF Lichfield on night exercise. The aircraft was seen flying low over Youlgreave in the Peak District shortly before it crashed into the side of the valley at Smerrill Grange, sadly killing all 6 crew. The blame for this tragedy was placed on poor visibility due to the weather conditions, an irony not lost on us as we contemplated the situation, we were facing ourselves. Alas, the fog had not lifted; if anything, it had worsened. We just couldn’t rely on the hope it would lift further along our route, so we had no choice but to declare the risk of continuing too high and regrettably agreed to abort the ride.
All was not lost though. Turning back, we were soon clear of the fog and began enjoying the ride once again. We stopped at a member’s home on the way back to warm up and over coffee and cake, we discussed how Roadcraft could be applied to some of the conditions we had seen to improve our skills and increase road safety on future rides. Once home everyone checked in, the only casualty of the ride apparently being a puncture in my front tyre! It had been a shame that we hadn’t achieved our original goals, but it had been a good day, nonetheless. A successful failure if you will! It was only when we were safely home that I began to think about a local superstition that could explain our rotten luck! Our route had taken the Leek & Moorland Road past Blake Mere.
A favourite with motorcyclists, this area boasts staggering views but also has a somewhat troubled past. Legend says that a young girl was drowned in the pool after being accused of witchcraft and ever since, her spirit has haunted the water in the form of a beautiful yet demonic Mermaid. Apparently, travellers to the waters have been known to go missing or get lost on the moors after following the apparition of a beautiful girl in the mist. Others have described suffering a run of bad luck after forgetting to toss a coin into the mermaid’s pool as tribute on their way past.
We hope to run this ride again in the Spring and hopefully by then
our luck will have improved. Perhaps we’ll adjust our route to
avoid mermaids curses next time though…. just to be safe!
FLY HIGH
with RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC)
You joined the RAF to fly but the opportunity just didn’t present itself?
Students of any rank in Phase 1 or Phase 2 training at RAF Cosford and RAF Shawbury get into the air each weekend with RSGC, with funding provided by the RAF Central Fund sponsored Mechanics Endowment Fund (MEF) Gliding Bursary courses.
The club run six courses each year, with six students attending each course. Included in their course are 9 training flights, an aerobatics flight that allows students to experience the g-forces on the body and airframe, and 60 minutes of flying
training in a motor glider. Students can then take their flying to solo level through the RAF Gliding and Soaring Association (RAFGSA) funded Go-Solo scheme. No car or can’t drive? No problem, the club have a well-established lift sharing scheme to get you to Shawbury.
The sky really is the limit to 10,000ft without oxygen, so challenge yourself, get airborne and follow in the footsteps of other Cosford students who have taken advantage of this fantastic opportunity to learn fly.
AR Chris Stone goes through his pre-flight checks with RSGC instructor and veteran Geoff Matthews
So you want to fly? More details and an application form are on the club website at https://www.rafshawburygc. co.uk/mef-bursary and if this has captured your interest and you want to know more contact Squadron Leader Franki Kuwan Franklin.Kuwan100@mod.gov.uk or Ian Gallacher ian. gallacher375@mod.gov.uk both of whom will be delighted to answer your questions. Also available on ModNET Skype or Teams.
Your first flight. AR Lewis Owen is on the launch point with RSGC instructor Laura Martin
In the circuit at RAF Shawbury with AR Harry Cost in an ASK 21 glider
Too young to drive but he can fly! AR Harry McBride takes a training trip in RSGC’s motor glider
Premier League Truce Tournament
On 10 November 2024 RAF Cosford hosted the Premier League Truce Tournament, this year was played at four military venues across the country, Cosford have had the honour of hosting one of these for many years.
The name of the Tournament is in honour of the 1914 Christmas during the First World War where opposing soldiers left their trenches to come together in no-man’s land and played football together. The tournament is part of a wider competition where the winners go to Ypres in Belgium to play in the finals against teams from across Europe.
The competition itself is for the U12 academy sides from across the Region and this year included teams such as Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Norwich City, Derby United, Stoke, West Bromwich Albion, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Leicester City and Everton.
As part of the tournament a Remembrance Service is held which involves an opening address from the RAF, in this case Flt Lt Emily Thompson opened the service with an address directed at fair play and the sacrifices of sporting people in service of their Country. This was followed by selected players from each team laying a wreath on behalf of their club and then reading out the names of those from their club that had given their all for their country. The silence was observed and gave the young players and their families who were present the opportunity to reflect on the occasion. It was great to see these young people remembering the fallen in this way and being involved in a service of Remembrance from an early age.
Once the service had been completed the tournament took place, the format was of two leagues of 6 teams who would play each other. The matches were 9v9 on small
pitches and would last for 20 minutes. The Match Officials were provided by the RAF FA and Shropshire FA and these were allocated to each pitch. The matches produced the expected high standard of football and were close run affairs. There were even a few celebrities in attendance, Tony Bellew and Wayne Rooney whose children were both playing in the tournament for Everton and Manchester United respectively.
After a day of football which was entertaining for all to watch and many really close and highly competitive games, in the end there had to be winners, On the day the two teams that would progress and will now both go on to the finals in Belgium were Liverpool and Manchester City.
The Tournament is planned to return next year, if you would like to celebrate Remembrance Day and take in a day of highquality football then maybe we will see you next year.
Spooky Postroom
On October 31st, we appeared to have some spooky staff delivering parcels and letters to our personnel. Did you dare enter the post room to retrieve your parcel?
Luckily, it was just our usual friendly post room team, who decided to dress up for a bit of ghostly fun that was well enjoyed by all.
DRESSAGE TRIUMPH
Taking back the reins and finding herself a horse to share at Corvedale Equestrian, Bridgnorth, WO Flora Dent has been training there for the last 18 month since arriving as School WO at No1 Radio School.
Akeen dressage rider, she has taken her horse, Mister T (aka Tidds) out competing this summer with the goal of qualifying for the British Dressage Associated Championships. Achieving some excellent results, she easily obtained her qualifications in just 3 outings and attended the Championships at Onley Grounds Equestrian Complex, Warwickshire, 22 – 23 October 2024. This event is a huge show in the British Dressage calendar, attracting over 1200 entries across 5 days of competition.
Representing RAF Cosford Saddle Club, she competed in the Forces Equine Novice 23 Class up against serving, veterans or dependents of personnel within the Emergency Services, MOD
and Armed Forces. Mister T, despite being 23 and travelling for 21/2 hours, was feeling very happy and energetic to be out and performed a great test with one small blip in his party piece (medium canter) but overwhelmingly won his Bronze section and came 2nd overall out of 19 riders. A fantastic start!
Settling in for an overnight stay, both horse and rider rested up in preparation for the next day of competition. The next class was the Part Bred Draught Novice 23 Class (Tidds is a Shire x Arab x Thoroughbred). Tidds was feeling on top form and very much enjoying his time away; he loves a party! There was some stiff competition, but he performed brilliantly and showcased a foot perfect test. As consistent as ever,
they both once again achieved a win in their Bronze Novice section and 2nd overall out of 15 riders.
The 2 days were a fantastic experience ending with some
great results. The time and effort were very much worth it with the support from the team at Corvedale Equestrian.
Now on to the next competition…
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