RAF Northolt issue 1 2023

Northolt Approach

EDITION 8, SPRING 2023

Editorial Team

Welcome from the Editor Station Commander’s Foreword

Group Captain V C McPhaden ADC MA(Oxon) MCIPD RAF

Welcome

This will be my last edition so please ensure you support the next editor with your exploits on what promises to be a major global event with RAF Northolt personnel at the forefront.

As we tentatively look ahead to some warmth from Spring, this edition of the magazine reminds me of some real highlights on Station from the last few months.

Welcoming LAC Marie Allen back to Station in Decembr after so many years to present her with her World War 2 medal was superb. I so enjoy meeting our Northolt veterans at various events and it was great delivering Christmas hampers to some of those that still live locally with the Station Warrant Officer too.

We have had a number of notable visits to Station since I last wrote, the most high profile of which was welcoming President Zelenskyy here as part of his visit to the UK; it was a great honour to meet him and to play our part in facilitating the visit.

Across Station we have managed to get lots of people away skiing through the winter season too, which has been fantastic for all involved.

Planning for our support to the Coronation is now well underway; we expect to be very busy as we play host to a large part of the RAF contingent for the Coronation parade itself which will feature our own King’s Colour Squadron and RAF Musicians amongst others and we also expect to handle many VVIPs flying through Northolt to attend the service itself. There will be lots of opportunity for parties and celebrations in honour of the Coronation and I look forward to seeing many of you at those, do please get involved where you can.

SWO’s Corner

Padre’s

Agreat year in the UK’s history lies ahead, and planning is very much in full swing as the Station and particularly our Ceremonial units prepare to support OP GOLDEN ORB and the celebratory elements of His Majesty the King coronation in early May. Such an event brings inevitable changes, most noticeably in our badges and associated elements of our uniforms may require tailoring and while I have no doubt you are all keen to comply with any new dress regulations, I ask that you apply some pragmatism and allow priority to those personnel who are requirement for specific coronation parade commitments.

Looking ahead, there will be ample opportunities for you to support a number of ceremonial commitments that we at RAF Northolt have the honour to support, I will be canvassing in the coming weeks for volunteers to represent the Station at the annual Air Forces’ Memorial at Runnymede, Uxbridge Armed Forces Day and Ruislip Remembrance later in the year.

2023 should offer us all an opportunity to reset and return to more routine business, and with that new ideas and fresh challenges for us all to face. Recently the Junior Ranks Welfare Fund has been streamlined, combining two separate Committees into one with the unification designed to better focus finances and capitalise on the enthusiasm of its members. Our Junior Rank cohort make up the largest percentage of our Station strength and I implore all of us, and at all levels, to get behind and support the

JR cadre in all their endeavours to improve their lived-in experience of RAF Northolt.

As you may be aware, In August this year the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is set to be expanded to include RAF Northolt and a recent survey captured the potential financial impact on our Personnel and their families. All information has been compiled and will be forwarded to the MOD for consideration. While no definitive resolution can be guaranteed, please be assured that your concerns have been heard and very much supported.

Andy, SWO

By the time your Easter Eggs have all been devoured, a new Chaplain will be in your midst as part of the inevitable churn that is military life.

Despite the fact that he’s a left footer (please don’t boo, padres have feelings too you know), he’s actually a super chap. I have the very great pleasure to introduce you to a very good friend and colleague of mine, Padre Dave Skillen. Originally from West Cumbria Dave has been a civvie Policeman and an RE teacher, before gaining a Master’s degree in Catholic Pastoral & Educational Studies and becoming a Chaplain. He has served across Defence including Operational tours on SHADER and BFSAI, and participated in Op TAILPIN (BZN), and joins us from his most recent stint at RAF Odiham. He is the RAF’s principal Roman Catholic Chaplain, and because he’s a Deacon is allowed to be married to Nichola and they’ve got three older Boys.

I met with Dave to find out how he’s feeling about coming to live and work amongst you lot and ask him some deep and meaningful questions…

Dave: I can’t believe you’re giving me grief for being a Catholic, we were here first you know.

Matt: Sorry mate, but I really am pleased that you are taking over as the Military Chaplain in NW London – let me start with the important stuff; Dinner party guests. Who and why?

Dave: Glad you’re starting with the important stuff. Depends how many! Strictly Come Dancing winner 2022, wildlife presenter, Hamza Yassin. Because he must have amazing tales to tell of his experiences observing and interacting with the natural world (aka God’s awesome Creation). Also, because he seems a genuinely decent

Happy New Year to all across the RAF Northolt Whole force, the festive period feels like such a long time ago and as welcome the longer and warmer days ahead, I’m sure it won’t be long before we’re all struggling in the summer heat and wishing for winter again.

Spring has Sprung, winter has wandered away and summer is certain to stealthily strike soon.

Corner

bloke and because I was awestruck at his sheer musicality as he danced his way to the glitter ball trophy in late 2022. As a musician myself, this intrigued me – I reckon he has a great musical story to tell.

Polish Saint, Maximilian Kolbe. Because he’s one of my favourite saints. Whilst a prisoner in Auschwitz he volunteered to take the place of a fellow prisoner, a Jewish man, who was due to be killed. Kolbe shared a cell with two others who, as they were being starved to death together, became distressed but this great Saint comforted and accompanied them until their death. Kolbe was then killed by lethal injection and his only response was a deep look of love up at the one administrating the lethal concoction. What a human being Maximilian Kolbe was and what faith!

The late Barbara Woodhouse (world renowned dog trainer). Because having been the long suffering and loving owner of Boxer dog pets I would love to pick her brains on turning this nutty breed into thriving and obedient pets! I did once complete a Police dog training course and loved learning about dog psychology – this really helped me understand people too! Barbara Woodhouse believed there were no “bad” dogs just ill-trained owners and so dogs too…

Six times world snooker champion Steve “boring” Davis. Because he is far from boring actually and because I love snooker and he is one of my life-long heroes. Would love an after-dinner game with him on the green baizes! I reckon now he’s a bit older, I could give him a run for his money…

Pope Francis. Not just because he is the leader of the Catholic Church (my own denomination) but because his compassion and pastoral motivation for all people regardless of background or life circumstances is deeply moving and inspiring to me as a human being and as a chaplain. I just love how he cold-calls people around the world to tell them he’s heard of their struggles and is praying for them! Hilarious how many don’t believe it's him and hang up – he calls them straight back!

Eric Clapton. Because he is the greatest guitarist ever (I sense a challenge coming back from some readers….I’m happy with that. Bring it on!). I have always dreamt of being on stage with Clapton playing some of his classics songs with him, such as Layla and Wonderful Tonight, and many others besides.

Matt: Wow that’s quite the list. I’m trying not to be offended that I didn’t make the cut, but I guess we’ll move on to the next question. What 3 things would you take on a desert island (besides basic food or water before all the SERE folk start getting twitchy)?

600 SQN

Sqn Ldr Alisa Rebbeck, 600 (City of London) Squadron mobilsation

Oct 22 – Mar 23

Sqn Ldr Alisa Rebbeck was mobilised to 22 Group Directorate of Flying Training (DFT) at MOD Abbey Wood as Deputy Chief of Staff DFT from Oct 22 to Mar 23 to cover a soft gap created by the overseas deployment of a permanent member of their team.

Dave: My acoustic guitars; my Snooker cue (to use in the desert island snooker club!!); and my Bible.

Matt: That’s a much more succinct answer, ok – let’s talk Marvel. If you could have one superpower, what would you choose?

Dave: The power to change people’s hearts, from selfish hearts of stone to loving hearts of flesh, so as to set in motion a new pandemic – a pandemic of world peace!

Matt: Mate you’re such a good Padre, mine was going to be invisibility, but yours is way better I might steal it.

Dave: I shouldn’t have to say this to you of all people, but I think there is a commandment which talks about stealing stuff.

Matt: On the topic of giving people advice, what advice would you give your younger self?

Dave: That’s easy. Cut yourself some slack; Trust in God who is faithfully alongside you always and who loves you. Therefore, be kind to yourself as God is merciful towards you. Do not fret about so many things as, to use St Julian of Norwich’s maxim, ‘All will be well and all manner of things will be well.’ Fact!

Matt: Thanks so much for taking the time to chat, and all the very best for your time with the amazing people who serve our community in the NW London region.

Dave: You’re welcome! I’m looking forward to meeting you all, please do feel free to pop by and say hello in due course – and, Matt, good luck with your move to MOD Abbey Wood in March.

She has covered a broad range of People Ops specific and managerial duties. However, her focus has primarily been on the organisation, preparation, facilitation and secretariat duties for 1, 2 & 3* meetings; and the sourcing, research, collation and drafting of Governance and Assurance Documentation to safeguard clarity of process, highlight ownership and ensure safety is paramount whilst introducing a streamlined scheduling system. It is hoped that this new system and the newly created Standard Operating Procedures and Terms of Reference will avoid unnecessary duplication of effort and ensure better use of staff time whilst providing beneficial and focussed output for escalation up the Chain of Command or dissemination to key contributors and Stake Holders. All work undertaken has been in support of the UK Military Flying Training System which provides highly trained aircrew and Air Ops personnel from all three services to meet current and future frontline requirements. Sqn Ldr Rebbeck says “I have enjoyed working with a new team, in a busy HQ environment and the novelty of working alongside Air Ranked Officers daily. This job has moved me out of my comfort zone on occasion but brought with it new knowledge and new experiences which I’ll be able to utilise in my career moving forward”.

Padre Matt & Padre Dave

The King’s Colour Squadron

December 2022

The King’s Colour Squadron has been supporting the delivery of infantry skills training to the Armed Forces of Ukraine as part of Op INTERFLEX, over a repeatable 5-week programme, alongside other RAF Regiment squadrons, British Army and Royal Marines. Often practicing with large numbers of Ukrainian forces, the courses showcased their skills to the Ukrainian Ambassador, the UK SoS for Defence and 13 Joint Expeditionary Force Ministers, as well as the NATO Secretary General. Members of the Squadron also been deployed overseas on Short Term Training Tasks, supporting taskings to deliver key Close Combat training to partner forces, part of the UK’s counter terrorism operation globally. We also welcomed back our third Counter UAS team from their Op SHADER commitment in Iraq, part of the Coalition Air Defence detachment. After a 6 month deployment, personnel were excited to be back and spend a well-earned Christmas break with their loved ones. The Air Bearer Party (ABP) were invited to join Her Royal Highness, The Princess of Wales, at a Carol Concert hosted at Westminster Cathedral. Alongside the RAF’s ABP were the Bearer Party from the Grenadier Guards, representative from the Royal Navy’s Gun Carriage and members of the public who had made a significant contribution to improving their communities. An excellent evening and opportunity for our Gunners to meet with the Royal Family who wished to convey their thanks to the military bearer parties.

January 2023

Business as usual right after Christmas leave at the Squadron, starting the new year with a ramped up Physical Education schedule, preparing for the 2-weeks field exercise in March. Ceremonial training also resumed in order to prepare for the Public Duties at the Tower of London. Whist guarding at the Tower, the Squadron celebrated the 81st anniversary of the RAF Regiment. During Jan 23 members of the sqn attended the field promotion course at RAF Honington. This was a command course for potential Corporals in the RAF Regiment. The course tests individuals in combat skills, infantry tactics, air-awareness, force protection and navigation over the 4 weeks. As part of the simulated exercise, personnel lived out of Forward Operating Bases (FOBs). Where they conducted patrols

including Recce and Clearance Patrols in order to gain intelligence and protect potential Air Operations in the future.

February 2023

Members of the Squadron took part in a further Air Defence training course on a new piece of equipment established for the deployed Counter-UAS fight. They learned how to deploy and operate the missile system which will provide continuous monitoring and full Detect, Identify, Track and hard Defeat capability in order to defeat the hostile threat posed by enemy UAS to an airbase or aircraft. Personnel have also conducted their predeployment training as we prepare to deploy once again in support of operations in multiple areas over the next few months. The first of which will be on Op SHADER and will enhance the existing capability in theatre.

President Zelenskyy Visit

The fixed voice secret phone rang at around 11:00 on Friday 3 Feb, which is unusual as it very rarely rings, it was Air Command asking if we could open early on the following Wednesday to accept President Zelenskyy. Without hesitation I said yes, whilst opening early does have an impact and affects fatigue of everyone concerned, I also knew that everyone would understand the importance of this influential World leader visiting the UK and RAF Northolt.

The strategic importance of the Royal Air Force hitting every news channel across the globe isn’t lost on anyone who serves or their families. Numerous phone calls and closed-door meetings took place over the next few days, the plan changed, changed again and was suddenly fixed for a 10:00 arrival on Wednesday 8 Feb, the fog then descended over the airfield and the plan was moving around again.

Not to miss out on his moment on Sky News, Flt Lt Ben Newman, OC Civil Airhead Detachment (CAD) was prepped to receive the aircraft irrespective of where it landed.

It was decided that the C-17 Globemaster carrying the Ukrainian President would fly to Stansted Airport, Ben saw this as prime OJAR material and ensured he was good to go.

Whilst the World slept, Ben was en route to Essex, and we all woke up to President Zelenskyy being greeted by the Prime Minister as he exited the RAF aircraft with Ben in the background.

RAF Northolt and Ops Wg would be thrust into the limelight again later as President Zelenskyy and the PM would be arriving by road and departing by waiting Chinooks to take them to visit Ukrainian troops and various locations in the UK. Not to be outdone by Ben Newman, Flt Lt Chris Smith; his movements officer peer saw his own opportunity and grabbed it with a front-page picture in the daily mail. This is now his screensaver, nice for an ex PTI to have another picture of himself to look at.

FOD Plod

FOD, or Foreign Object Debris, can be a serious flight safety hazard. FOD generally comprises windblown rubbish but can include tools or shed aircraft components as was the case for the Concorde crash outside Paris in 2000. Because of this hazard, military establishments are directed to sweep the airfield annually, or after a weather event or public event, such as an open day.

On this occasion, 42 personnel attended from a diverse range of sections from the

This visit was a huge success for the UK, a success for President Zelenskyy in his quest for support to the ongoing and very real war taking place in Europe. It was also a huge success for RAF Northolt who, with the minimum of fuss enabled this strategically important moment in geopolitics to take place, putting ourselves firmly at the centre of the Royal Air Force and UK PLC yet again.

On 2nd February, personnel from across the Station gathered in Pod 5 to conduct the annual FOD plod of the airfield.

Whole Force of Team Northolt including RAF Police, Station Medical Centre, 32 (TR) Sqn, Accounts Flight, HR Centre 1, Defence Courier Service, King’s Colour Squadron, Air Information Documentation Unit, Commercial Business, Ops Sqn, Visiting Aircraft Servicing Section and the Total Safety Team.

The airfield was closed for 90 mins, allowing enough time for the group to split into two teams and proceed onto the airfield, in communication with ATC, and sweep the runway and all taxyways and hardstanding. Additionally, VASS swept the Main Airfield Servicing Platform using the FODBOSS mechanical sweeper and the Southern fence line of the airfield.

In all, the equivalent of a black bin bag of FOD was collected from the airfield, largely from

the grass areas directly adjacent to the taxyways, with no significant concentrations and no tools or aircraft components found. Assurance can thus be taken that RAF Northolt is clear of FOD and that existing FOD countermeasures are effective.

Many thanks to all who participated in this important activity in support of the Station’s Safe Operating Environment for military and civilian flight operations.

Sqn Ldr Jamie Wright

Flt Lt Rob Saddler, Station Flight Safety Officer Ext 8964

RAF Music Services

On a bright but cold morning in February, Station Commander Gp Capt Mcphaden joined personnel from RAF Music, invited guests, station personnel, friends, families and ex colleagues to mark the anniversary of the tragic road accident which took place 38 years’ ago. On the 11th of February 1985 the Band of the Royal Air Force Germany, based at Royal Air Force Rheindalen, was travelling on a coach to an engagement at the RAF Winter Survival School in Bavaria when they collided with an aviation tanker on the autobahn. 19 RAF Musicians, a RAF Policeman and the civilian coach driver all lost their lives in this tragic accident.

Following Padre Sqn Ldr Matthew Stevens’ introduction, Principal Director of Music (RAF) Wg Cdr Piers Morrell OBE read the names of those who died. Trumpeter Cpl Cris Richards then sounded the Last Post and Reveille. The musical accompaniment by the Central Band of the RAF included Nimrod and Elegy on the RAF March Past. Wreaths and floral tributes were layed at the memorial outside the Headquarters Music Services by representatives of RAF Music Services, the RAF Music Association and the RAF Police and by the family members, friends and ex colleagues. We will remember them.

RAF Music was proud to take part in the Royal Carol Service at Westminster Abbey. His Majesty The King, The Queen Consort and The Prince of Wales joined 1,800 guests who attended the service which was hosted by Catherine, The Princess of Wales and was aired on ITV1 on December 15th 2023. Actress Catherine ZetaJones narrated the service which was dedicated to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. A Christmas tree in the Abbey was decorated with small Paddington Bear decorations - a nod to Her Majesty The Queen’s famous Jubilee sketch.

Her Royal Highness, The Princess of Wales said: “Her Majesty held Christmas close to her heart, as a time that brought people together and reminded us of the importance of faith, friendship and family, and to show empathy and compassion.”

The service also recognised the selfless efforts of individuals, families and communities across the UK, and highlighted the remarkable impact that coming together to support others can have for us all.

In November, a Brass Quintet from the Central

Floral tributes being layed during the RAF Germany Band Memorial Service

Westminster Abbey prior to the Royal Carol Service

Band of the RAF performed at No.10 Downing Street as the Christas lights were switched on. Positioned next to the Christmas tree outside the most iconic front door in the world, the quintet played for invited guests, the Prime Minister, his wife and the press. They even got to meet Larry the Downing Street cat and chief mouser to the Cabinet Office!

For more information, see the RAF Music website or Facebook page

The Brass Quintet from the Central Band of the RAF at No.10 Downing Street

The Christmas lights at No.10 Downing Street with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

RAF Musicians performing at St Clement Danes the Central Church of the RAF

HR Centre 1 Trip

HR

Centre 1 recently planned a trip to MOD Medals Office and Joint Compassionate Casualty

Centre office. The initial goal was to create some background admin knowledge through a direct visit, however, it was an experience I would recommend to everyone on station.

We got an insight into how admin worked during World War 1 and World War 2. To this day many soldiers who fought in World War 2 are still receiving medal requests via their families. We saw a range of documents which aided to issuing these medals, such as World War 2 Army dental records, RAF documents which detailed a soldier’s journey through the war, which also included squadrons, locations and aircraft served on. We then saw the section which stamps and prepares the packaging of medals.

This was surprisingly a small office, smaller than the current HR Centre 1 offices which consists of around 5 people. We then toured into a room which contained almost every medal which has existed in the Armed forces. Each medal has its own story. One coin, in particular, took over 30 years to make and was made from solid silver. Although this trip involved many historic paper records, every section stressed the importance of JPA and how useful it has been to help them. HR Centre 1 are hoping to continue these visits throughout the year.

Medals and uniform

Aircrew logbook

Record collection

Aircraft record

RAF Medical Services FC Vs Kings Colour Squadron FC

RAF Northolt was the venue for a friendly football match between the RAF Medical Services F.C. and the Kings Colour Sqn (KCS). A crisp, sunny December’s afternoon set the scene as the two teams lined up.

KCS came into the game confident naming several Station footballers in their squad. The visitors fell just short of lifting the Medical Inter Services Cup in the summer and felt justifiably confident themselves.

The visitors started the game brightly and pressed from the off. The 4-3-3 formation allowed the medics to apply early pressure in the KCS half forcing mistakes, which lead to early chances. Cpl Mike Scannell hitting the post and Cpl Rob Bowes the RAF Medic captain for the fixture came close with a chance which was well saved by the KCS keeper, which led to an uneventful corner. This seemed to unsettle KCS who probably didn’t expect the early pressure.

The story of the first half continued in the manner but the more it went on, the more the game began to break down. KCS did start getting some joy with their attacking play and when a cross came in the medic keeper, Cpl Mike Ralph had to show his reactions as a chance was well saved by him. At half-time the medics were the happier of the teams and were unfortunate going into the break without a lead.

RAF Med Services gaffer, former Leeds United

youth goalkeeper FS Steve Hardwick, happy with his team’s performance made a change in goalkeeper at half time to ensure both his keepers had the opportunity to shine. The same decision was made by LCpl Tom Mitchell, the KCS gaffer.

The second half started even with both teams sharing the possession, the game was really shaping up to be a good contest. The Gunner’s attacking play was starting to bear fruit and some brilliant defending from the medic’s centre backs Cpl Randell and Cpl Wilkinson, showing their worth in dealing with the KCS onslaught.

Mid way through the second half the deadlock was broken, Cpl Mike Scannell sublimely finished a great through ball to launch a fierce strike and comfortably beat the KCS keeper making the score RAF Med Services 1 - 0 KCS.

With clear momentum the medics continued to apply pressure on the gunners and left winger, AS1 Jordan Wilcock, with some excellent mazy runs caused the RAF Regiment lads some problems. It looked very much as though the game was going the way of the medics but, digging in the KCS boys started to get a foothold in the game. Trapping the

medics in their own half KCS pushed hard for an equaliser, Cpl Randell kept his side in it as some excellent challenges halted KCS’s progress.

The game settled and became an even contest once again until the medics star man AS1 Eastwood made a challenge in his own box. The referee pointed to the spot and, despite the protests from the medics this gave the gunners a good opportunity to equalise.

The chirp of the whistle was quickly followed by Cpl Chaperon smashing the ball into the back of the net to set up a frantic last 10 minutes. A good penalty which the medic keeper did his best to keep out by guessing the right way and getting his hand on it, but with the power and placement of the penalty there was no stopping the equaliser. Both sides searched for a winner but good defending saw the game end in a deserved draw.

An entertaining game which gathered quite a crowd with both teams happy with their performances. Well done to all involved and looking forward to the re-match.

Cpl Bowes, Station Medical Centre

RAF Gliding and Soaring Association Chilterns Gliding Club

The RAF Gliding and Soaring Association exists to give all service personnel, civilian MOD employees, and their families, the opportunity to experience the adventurous sport of gliding and Chilterns Gliding Club at RAF Halton is your local branch.  Whether you just want an experience

flight with one of our qualified instructors, or want to take the challenge further and learn to fly solo in one of our modern gliders, Chilterns Gliding Club can meet your aspirations.  We have a very active club at Halton airfield that meets every weekend (and if conditions allow, midweek).  If you would like to give gliding a try, come down to the airfield and meet us.  If you are looking for an activity to share with colleagues as a Force Development Day, why not come gliding? Just give us a call as we can accommodate most requests with enough notice.

There is a cost associated with

flying, but it’s a lot more reasonable than you may think, service personnel can currently experience two flights for £36, which will create more memories than a round of beers at the pub! I hope you are tempted, if so have a look at what YOU could be a part of this year, and check out our website at www.chilternsgc.co.uk or search chilternsglidingclub on Instagram.

Following on from our successful winter expedition to Aboyne, Scotland, we have a spring expedition to the Black Mountains in Monmouthshire Wales to look forward to. Our training programme is progressing well with two members recently completing their British Gliding Association Bronze awards. If you wish to join them please get in touch through the website or contact your Station Flight Safety Officer, Flt Lt Rob Saddler on x8964.

www.chilternsgc.co.uk

As members of the RAF we all have a passion for aviation and all that goes to support it.  Have you ever wanted to try your hand at flying an aircraft?  Well, what is stopping you?

RAF Uxbridge Memorandum of association

Presented to Officers' Mess

On 13th November 1992, Group Captain Cynthia Fowler, Station Commander of RAF Uxbridge, signed a Memorandum of Association between RAF Uxbridge, RAF Music Services, the Queen’s Colour Squadron and The Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers (GSWD).

The Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers are one of the ancient City of Livery Companies and, this year celebrate the 400th anniversary of being granted their first charter by King James. Of the 110 Livery Companies, GSWD are the 74th oldest so, despite being 400 years old, they are relatively new! The Livery Companies are the old trade associations of the City and are key institutions within the infrastructure of the City of London. The trade of the GSWD was to draw out gold and silver bars into fine gold thread for use in military uniforms and clerical vestments. Most Livery Companies have affiliations with units of our armed forces.

When RAF Uxbridge closed in 2010, RAF Music Services and the Queen’s Colour Squadron relocated to RAF Northolt. At the start of 2022, RAF Northolt, QCS, RAF MS and GSWD set out to try to find the missing Memorandum of Association, which was a grand, illuminated and framed document. After much searching, it was eventually located at the Battle of Britain Bunker at the former RAF Uxbridge site which is run by Hillingdon Council. Hillingdon Council were reluctant to release the document as it formed part of the history of RAF Uxbridge and, due to their environmentally controlled

archival processes, they were better placed to preserve the original document – the signatures having already faded. However, they were most helpful and provided high resolution scanned copies of the document, which GSWD printed and framed.

On 9th November 2022, almost 30 years to the day after the original signing, Brian Turner, Master of the Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers, re-presented a framed copy of the Memorandum of Association to Group Captain Toria McPhaden, Station Commander of RAF Northolt. This is now displayed in the Officers’ Mess alongside a similar document from the Worshipful Company of Fletchers, with whom RAF Northolt have an affiliation. Copies were also presented to the King’s Colour Squadron and to RAF Music Services.

Phil Egerton RAF Liaison Officer Worshipful Company of Gold

Presentation to Group Captain Toria McPhaden

and Silver Wyre Drawers

Original signing by Group Captain Cynthia Fowler

RAF and GSWD Guests at 1992 Signing

Close-up of the MoA

RAF Northolt maintains its Outstanding Ofsted status

RAF Northolt maintains its outstanding Ofsted status

January 03, 2022: Bright Horizons’ RAF Northolt Day Nursery and Preschool has been rated ‘outstanding’ once again by Ofsted following its most recent inspection.

The report highlights the exceptional care and attention each individual child receives at the nursery. The nursery received its inspection on the 18th of November, all categories passing with the ‘outstanding’ status. Ofsted report on four key categories; quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management. The inspection was carried out through various tasks including observing the interactions between practitioners and children as they undertook activities. Comments from the report included:

• “The manager is an inspiring and motivating

leader. She and the staff continuously evaluate the provision and strive for excellence.”

• “Staff know the children exceptionally well. They provide highly stimulating activities, to promote children’s individual interests and learning.”

• “Parents say that staff provide exceptional support for each family’s needs. They appreciate the wonderful care and

experiences the nursery provides for them”

Nursery manager Jodi Roth said, “We are extremely proud to maintain an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted. The latest report outcome shows the hard work and dedication the team put in every day to enable the children to excel and achieve in all areas of learning. We provide opportunities for all our children of all ages to be highly motivated to learn and thrive.”

MET OFFICE

The Met Office at RAF Northolt

Summary of the Meteorological Winter: During the current Meteorological Winter (DEC 2022-FEB 2023), we have experienced relatively benign conditions at RAF Northolt. Where we would usually see named low pressure systems barraging the UK from the North Atlantic, we have been “plagued” by high pressure for most of the winter. These areas of high pressure, usually centred to the south or east of the UK, have provided mostly settled conditions. As a result of persistent high pressure, weather fronts have either been blocked or drastically weakened upon their passage across the UK. These settled conditions have allowed for periods of clear skies, coupled with light winds and cold overnight temperatures – a perfect recipe for mist, fog, and freezing fog. This winter has by no means always been settled, with snow observed during early December as well as successive days of strong winds.

Named storms – have there been any?

Other than Storm Otto, named by the Danish Meteorological Institute on Feb 16th, there

have been no named storms from the Met Office during this Meteorological Winter. In contrast, during February 2022 a total of three named storms affected the UK in one week (Dudley, Eunice & Franklin). One of these storms was the ferocious Storm Eunice, which brought a swathe of very strong winds to the southern half of the UK – leading to several Met Office Red Weather Warnings to be issued. Severe storms such as Storm Eunice have a return period of around 20 years, which is what made the event truly exceptional.

What can we expect for the Meteorological Spring?

UK Spring is usually calm and dry, mainly due to the Atlantic losing heat over Autumn and Winter, allowing for fewer impactful low-pressure systems affecting the UK. Average temperatures during the daytime tend to rise with each passing month – though the night-time temperatures tend to remain on the cool side:

On top of this, we can expect daylight hours to increase from 10.5 hours at the start of March to 16.2 hours at the end of May – an average of around +2 hours per month.

32 (The Royal) Squadron

Envoy Update

The Envoy IV CC Mk1 has just had its livery painted, with the previously white aircraft now sporting a bold union jack painted over the tail of the aircraft and the new addition of King Charles III cypher. This change brings the aircraft in line with the RAF Voyager ZZ336 “Vespina” at RAF Brize Norton and the Titan Airways A321LR used for VIP/ government taskings. In addition to the change the AS has been flying globally transporting members of the Royal Family, Members of His Majesty’s Government as well as the heads of all 3-armed forces and most recently transporting the A400M crew changes in support of OP SHADER. The sqn also hosted a visit from AOC 1 Gp: a first since the transition of command.

A109 Ops

For the A109 the new year started with a flurry of training to blow away the cobwebs after two weeks off for Christmas. The aircraft has transported Deputy Commander Operations to RAF Waddington to visit the Air and Space Warfare Centre and completed several other taskings including transporting the Chief of Air Staff and Senior Government Ministers. We’ve also been working closely with our colleagues at RAF Shawbury with a pair of H135 Juno aircraft shadowing the A109 tasking to provide added resilience.

EX CARIBBEAN LEG 2

A NOVICE'S VIEW

Though scheduled to commence in the early hours of Sunday morning 6th Nov, our journey on leg 2 began in earnest with a WhatsApp message midweek before. Plans were shifting quickly, as the team undertaking leg 1 had been turned back by extreme weather in the Bay of Biscay. Rather than taking our scheduled flight to La Corunna, we were now taking a ferry to begin the journey from Brest, increasing the total distance or our adventure to nearly 1500nm.

SUNDAY 6TH NOV

LONDON TO PLYMOUTH

The first 6 crew had already arrived in Brest by the time myself as part of those remaining began the first stage of a long slog with a drive to Plymouth for an overnight ferry to Brest. In my mind this was a blessing, as rather than a 2am flight, we managed to get our collective heads down for a little rest. At least we would have done, had it not been for the 40kt winds which had thwarted leg 1 doing their very best to batter our ferry into submission. The faces of all the novices in the group clearly

betrayed the same thought – will our own trip be this bumpy too? The answer was yes, but we just didn’t know it yet. The first crew had posed at a bus stop, so we obviously tried to recreate the photo the next day…

MONDAY 7TH NOV –

PLYMOUTH - ROSCOFF

We arrived in Roscoff and were fortunate to catch a bus departing for Morlaix train station just a few minutes after disembarking. We weren’t so lucky with train times though and had a few hours to wait on the platform before the fast train to Brest. Having had less than the desired amount of sleep on the overnight rollercoaster, and looking like ragtag vagabonds, most chose to get their heads down on the platform. The younger members eagerly seized the opportunity to charge devices which had dropped to perilously low battery levels. The advance party hit the supermarkets under the watchful eye of the Purser, who was hoping to fill the cupboards enough to keep a hungry crew well feed over the following fortnight (spoiler alert – his menu was magnificent). After completing some mandatory briefs, the crew took a welcome opportunity to eat together, the more experienced crew recognising that this was the last time that the bowls and plates would stay flat on a table surface for a while…

TUESDAY 8TH NOV - BREST MARINA

A modest 0700 reveille and breakfast. Bacon sandwiches morphed into milk and cereal as Mother struggled to get the grills to stay alight. A re-show on the gas safety lessons ensured that the bacon was successfully served up for lunch. The morning was spent conducting Man Overboard drills (of considerable complexity on a Challenge 72) and each watch nominated a somewhat bemused ‘swimmer’ who, without exception, only realised quite what they’re gotten themselves into after volunteering. We also rigged storm sails and conducted other mandatory drills and training.

The hope had been to depart on a short sail to Camaret-sur-Mer, but with 40kts still howling the skipper had no choice but to delay our departure, so instead the novices undertook steps towards becoming Competent Crew (which felt a very long way off!) and practiced rope and knot work.

WEDNESDAY 9TH NOV - Brest Estuary. Time to go, and the excitement was palpable. An early start to optimise the tidal window out of Brest, and with the second Yankee and two reefs in the main we began the brutal beat to windward out of the estuary, the wind now a mere 25kts. Heading towards Camaret to complete the live MOB drills, we encountered large and close swells which saw many of the crew struggle with sea sickness, including myself. I spent at least 24 hours making friends with a bucket. The crew had to be carefully managed with so many unable to gainfully contribute during a busy period of sailing. By the evening, in order to maintain a good heading we were forced to motor sail and the noise of the howling wind switched to the noise of the diesel engine.

THURSDAY 10TH NOV - BAY OF BISCAY

The only safe refuge from sea sickness was either prone in the bunk with eyes closed,

or at the helm looking at the horizon. Any movement in between these two stations induced further bouts, and the novices became quickly adept at stripping or donning life jackets and ‘foulies’ with minimal delay on the short journey between the two locations. With the increased distance to cover, the Iron Sail remained alive in order to force progress South. After nearly a full 24 hours I began to feel a little better and able to contribute more meaningfully to the watch, who not for a single moment complained about my absence or uselessness that I had so far demonstrated. This grace and kindness among the crew would become a theme during our passage, demonstrating the very best of humanity during adversity. By the evening the wind had backed enough to hoist the foresails and maintain a course to windward. The experienced crew members used VMG to ensure the optimum balance of speed and heading, while the novices just tried to keep a steady compass course while helming. The candidates for YMO began reducing sights with the sextant, which became as ubiquitous at their eyes as their sunglasses from this point onwards. In lieu of a working log, we played around with throwing stale muffins off the bow in an attempt to MacGyver a Dutch Log.

FRIDAY 11TH NOV – REMEMBRANCE IN THE BAY OF BISCAY

The sun broke through the Biscay cloud for the first time and the crew were in large part back in the fight having overcome seasickness. With both Staysail and Yankee hoisted we were able to hold a good heading with 18kts of wind for most of the morning. At Midday during the noon watch handover we called all hands for a short act of Remembrance on deck. There won’t be many who can say that they’ve observed a minutes silence as they made their way south through the Bay of Biscay. Mindful of not only recent sacrifices but also those of the peninsular wars, the crew had much to reflect upon, and at the conclusion of the words of the Kohima Epitaph two Dolphins graced us with their presence cresting alongside in perfect unison.

SATURDAY 12TH NOV – LA CORUNNA

Almost a full week into our adventure and we finally crossed the official start line for Leg 2 at La Corunna. The remaining crew blighted by sickness began to surface claiming they were glad it was day two – having to be reminded they actually had several days of duties to catch up on! The few who remained sick claiming deliriously that they’d rather be downrange in the sandbox than stay on board. Erratic windspeed saw reefs come and go, and the direction was just as unhelpful resulting in a rough day close hauled. It was time for the novices to learn to cook and use the ablutions while bouncing up and down and leaning sideways. I managed my first full evening meal, an excellent Thai Green curry, since Wednesday having thus far only been brave enough to subject my rebellious stomach to plain bread and water. While my watch slept a squall of some biblical nature brought 40kts and heavy rain, but finally a change of tack. Having just gotten used to being sideways on one side of the

boat, the novices now had to learn how to live and sleep leaning the other way and learning to trust the lee cloths while sleeping.

SUNDAY/MONDAY 13 & 14TH NOV – TOWARDS MADEIRA

Successive fronts passing through saw us quickly become reefing experts. If we didn’t achieve Competent Crew at least the novices would be able to say they reef the main like pros. Throughout morale and spirits among the crew were high, and not even a few wet days or shower ban (due to a temporarily mischievous water maker) could dampen the enthusiasm that the thought of sighting land had brought. Our ability and skill was increasing and we were beginning to grasp much of the technical terminology being used among the more experienced crew.

TUESDAY 15TH NOV – LAND AHOY!

A rude awakening in the early hours with a repeated engine alarm. Or at least I’m told so, as I slept through obliviously, exhausted by

the last few days. Our chief engineer, himself a novice REME sailor, had noticed low oil levels and engine checks were increased in frequency as a result. Somewhat inconveniently my bunk was on top of the engine gearbox, so until the afterguard were content that the engine was behaving itself I was up and down from my pit like a yoyo while checks were conducted. It turns out I can sleep standing up. During the day we went through more of the Comp Crew syllabus, notably sailing customs, concluding with our hoisting of the Portuguese courtesy flag. Comp Crew knot examinations began to take place under the ever vigilant eye of the skipper – after a few reshows all the novices managed to tick of the requirements.

WED 16TH NOV – PORTO SANTO

A good night sleep alongside in a marina, unlimited hot showers and the warmth of the sun transformed this leg from a brutal beat across Biscay into a sunny cruise into the Madeiran Archipelago. The purser woke early and combined his phys with a run to the supermarket for Bread and fresh fruit. The rest of us spent the morning fixing everything that the Bay of Biscay had broken, including a comprehensive analysis of the bilges.

Having stuffed ourselves with Pastel De Nata, Toasties and Ice Cream for 12 hours the crew made ready to slip, and not a moment too soon, having snapped a mooring line and popped fenders on an aggressive mooring, the only one able to accommodate our lengthy 72ft. For most, especially the novices, the looming passage of 175nm would be

an absolute beast – but it felt to us like a short hop after last week. As we left Porto Santo we were accompanied by pods of Dolphins cresting and weaving at the bows –needless to say, morale was extremely high.

THURS 17TH NOV – SAVAGE ISLANDS

The sunrise was exceptional and the promise of a warm day soon became a reality. It was like an entirely different trip. A stop at the Savage Islands was a highlight for me and I had been really looking forward to seeing an Island nature reserve which is only accessible by water. We dropped the hook, went for a swim, and the Comp Crew candidates demonstrated some Dinghy skills in the volcanic swell. We left after lunch, a little bit redder, a lot saltier, and basking in a glorious sunset. For some the fun only lasted a while, as a faulty generator meant that our chief engineer missed his sleep shift and endured a bleary eyed 4 hours of work trying to diagnose and fix the problem. Without a working generator, the next leg, for whom we were working so hard, would be unlikely to succeed.

FRIDAY 18TH NOV – PORTO

CALERO LANZAROTE

Waking up to phone signal meant we lost the attention of many for a brief period, but it was hot and sunny as we pulled towards Lanzarote. We moored briefly at the fuel jetty before assisting the skipper with a superb piece of seamanship, navigating Discoverer into a tricky mooring with difficult wind and marina busy with strings of jet skis and glass bottomed boats. For the novices, the skill of the manoeuvre was remarkable to observe, and a privilege to be a part of. A full day of deep cleaning ensued to

ensure that the incoming crew, with 4 weeks on board, had a good starting point and the generator was fixed. A much needed run ashore followed that evening, after a busy two weeks at sea.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY 19TH 20TH

NOV – HOMEWARD BOUND

Despite a few sore heads, the crew went off for a little R&R while the skipper HOTO took place. Diving, relaxing in the sun, quad biking or dinner with the in-laws all took place during the day before an excellent crew meal in the marina in the evening. Speeches were made, T shirts were worn and toasts were made. The job had been done – it

had been an 1491nm sail of two halves.

The first, a dramatic and seasick battering across the Bay of Biscay.

The second, a warm and sunny cruise between marinas.

Spirits were high throughout, and the novices, myself included, all managed to pass the Competent Crew requirements to ensure that we’ll sail again. A relatively easy passage through both airports on Sunday meant the crew were safely home, the aims of their Adventurous Training met - and then some!

The Run to Remember

I was at home one day with my partner and two young children, speaking about their grandma who would have been 60 years young this year. My mum sadly passed away rather suddenly from breast cancer, however, during the last 18 months of her life, Macmillan Nurses supported and cared for her in their hospice.

Under the care of the Macmillan Nurses, my mum was given physical and emotional support but in addition to this, she was given vital financial assistance as she had three young children who were solely dependant on her. Given this year she would have turned 60, I decided I would do something to return the generosity of the Macmillan Cancer Support Group.

Those that know me, know I go big with things like this! I decided to compete in a 50km Ultra Marathon. The team consisted of Air Cartographers from No1 AIDU, who were broken down into two groups: the main running team and the support team, although this evolved! The main running team consisted of myself, AS1 Luke Davison, AS1 Mark Faulkner, AS1 Connor Jones and AS1 Freddie Knight.

The support team was made up of AS1 Stephanie Cullen, AS1 Andy Laurie, Sgt Marcus Rees-Whybrow, Cpl Michael Spencer, WO Ben Williams and finally AS1 Macauley Wright. The team was also supported by the Station Charities committee, through Flt Lt Betts, who provided funds for the safety vehicles, without which the event probably would not have been as successful.

The day arrived. The Ultra Marathon, 3 Nov 22. We headed to our first check point which was Hughenden Manor to meet Emma Russell who let us in to the grounds to take some photos and use the facilities. The Manor has a prestigious history for Air Cartographers during WW2. The next phase was to head to Rickmansworth Aquadrome which would be a real test for the group. This leg of the run was the most arduous part as pain, fatigue and hunger began to set in, however, the safety vehicles and food supplies were stationed at the checkpoint. Regrettably, I succumbed to an injury, primarily caused by age, and had to transfer my efforts to delivering support from the van, very much like being a PTI again, talked a good game. The team arrived at Rickmansworth Aquadrome in plenty of time despite being down only to 3 fit runners, The last leg to the bunker saw the 6 runners reunite. Feeling the effects of the 48km that had already been covered, the suffering team produced a gritty performance to get over the line. We did it together. We did it as a team. We were strong together. We made it! My mum would have been proud of us all

written by Loz Prior

and I’m incredibly proud of all those who supported this event. At the time of writing this article the amount raised is an incredible £883 Thank you to everyone who donated and continue to donate.

I would like to thank the following people as without their input this would not have been possible. Those thanks extend to: The running & support team, Wg Cdr Bottrill, Wg Cdr Parsons, Sqn Ldr Johnstone, FS Crisp and WO Williams. Finally, I would like to say a very special thank you to the ladies who looked after my mum at Macmillan Hospice, Blackburn, 21 years ago, as I always told my Mum, you are appreciated for everything you do. It can never be measured. Thank you!

The Link Café Menu

Wed 1000 – 1300hrs

Last Orders: 1245hrs

RAF Northolt Parent Support Group

(Extra Egg, Sausage, Bacon, Hash Brown 50p per item) Breakfast Wrap

(Cheese, Sausage, Bacon, Egg, Hash Brown, Sauce)

Big Breakfast

(2x bacon, 2x sausages, 2x hash browns, egg, beans, tomatoes, toast)

Toasties (Cheese, Ham, Chicken, Tomato, Onion)

‘The Link Café’ can be found in ‘The Link’ in Portal Close.

For more information, please contact Pauline Thomson, HIVE Information Officer at Pauline.Thomson103@mod.gov.uk

Matters of the moment with the RAF Police

OME AND VACANT PROPERTY SECURITY

Thanks to the vigilance of the service families community, RAF Police have monitored an increase in suspicious activity around vacant SFA properties. The information we receive from the community is invaluable in shaping our Community Policing priorities, therefore we welcome every report we get. You may have already received our new Suspicious Activity reporting leaflet, which includes a QR code to report things directly to us & a handy reporting aid which you could use also. Remember if you see a crime in progress, call 999.

VEHICLE SECURITY

Did you know technology exists that can copy your vehicle remote signal onto a blank, so that your car’s locking mechanism and even ignition can be bypassed? To prevent this, we recommend storing keys well away from the entrances to your house and if you want to be extra safe, in a Faraday box. Faraday boxes block electronic signals of the objects placed inside and would prevent attempts to replicate your car keys’ signal.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Police Flight, here at RAF Northolt, believe it is incredibly important to engage with our community not only on camp, but around our SFA patches. Community engagement provides the RAF Police valuable information and intelligence about what happens

around our Security Vigilance Area. The Police Flight has various events that it attends such as Crime prevention stalls at Sainsbury’s, Drop-in Surgeries and Coffee with a Copper which are held in the coffee shops on camp, look out for the posters around camp.

ALL CHANGE AT THE TOP

During the Christmas break, we said our farewells to OC Police Flt Lt David Taylor. We wish him well in his future endeavors. Taking over the role as OC Police and Security Flight is Flt Lt Charlie Van Buren. Flt Lt Van Buren joins us from RAF Brize Norton where he completed a busy tour on Aviation Security Flight.

All of us here at the RAF Police and Security Flt are looking forward to getting to work alongside Flt Lt Van Buren over the coming months.

REPORTING

If there is anything you want to report to the RAFP, there are several ways to contact us. You can come into the Police Flight, which is open during normal working hours Monday- Friday. Secondly you can give RAFP a call on CIV: 020 8833 EXT 8332, Mil: 95233 EXT 8332. You could also report incidents using the QR code, this is 100% anonymous and you can do it off your smartphone. These posters are dotted all around camp.

Northolt Service Families

Suspicious Activity - keep a look out for our new Suspicious Activity reporting leaflet.

• It’s our free online platform exclusively for RAF personnel and their partners.

• Covering a range of self-directed topics tailored to life in the RAF.

• The course can be accessed anonymously, either as a couple or separately.

• It aims to equip you with the communication skills and strategies to get the best out of your relationships.

We also provide relationship counselling and mediation support.

MAIN RIDE: SAT 13 MAY 2023

Start & finish: The Petwood Hotel, Lincolnshire, home of the Dambusters

Ride to take a heritage route

VIRTUAL RIDE: SAT 20 – SUN 21 MAY 2023

Start & finish: Wherever you want it to be. The ride can be completed anywhere

Enter individually or as a team Raise vital funds for the RAF Family Exclusive medal and jersey for all riders

Sign up now: rafbf.org/ride