EDITOR Sgt
Northolt Approach magazine is published under the kind permission of Station Commander, Group Captain Jonathan T W Hough ADC MA BSC RAF. The views expressed by correspondents do not necessarily reflect official policy.
PUBLISHER
Northolt Approach is published by Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL Tel 01536 334222
ADVERTISING MANAGER
Jayne Bailey Tel 01536 334219
Email jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk
DESIGNER
Jo Glen
Email jo@lancemediagroup.co.uk
DISCLAIMER:
This publication is copyright Lance Media Group Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without prior written permission of Lance Media Group Limited. While every care has been taken during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any consequence arising from it.
Next edition will be Issue 13, Autumn/Winter 2024.
Submission of articles:
Articles for the Northolt Approach should be submitted by email to: NOR-BSWNortholtApproach@mod.gov.uk written in Microsoft Word and pictures should be sent as high quality original jpegs at 300dpi (where possible) and attached as separate files, not embedded in the text or reduced in size.
Hello and welcome to the Summer edition of the Northolt Approach. I’m delighted to be editing the magazine for the first time; having served at RAF Northolt for 14 years now it’s truly a privilege to celebrate the fantastic people and community on this Station.
This edition is jam-packed with a variety of news and activities, showcasing the diversity and magnitude of output, and promoting the sports and community clubs that do so much to bring people together across the Station. Thank you to all those who have contributed and please do keep sending in your stories and photographs.
There’s a new look for this edition with community pages offering advice on matters such as keeping safe online, and a spotlight on some of the team members at RAF Northolt – if you have any ‘ordinary champions’ in your section, please do feature them in future magazines! If you have any further ideas for inclusion send them my way and I look forward to steering the magazine for the benefit of the RAF Northolt community.
I wish you all the very best for a warm and relaxing summer.
GROUP CAPTAIN JONATHAN T W HOUGH ADC MA BSC RAF
Welcome to the Summer edition of the Northolt Approach, and what a bumper edition it is too. It is wonderful to see so much of what is going on here and in the community, and I am hugely grateful to all of you that have put pen to paper to write an article.
This has been an exceptionally busy period; whether it be our continuing excellence in operational delivery, through sporting endeavours or with the many community outreach initiatives, it is an honour to be part of this amazing Station.
Of the many highlights over this period, the Station Boxing Night has to be one of the most glamourous yet exciting events. My congratulations go to all the boxers, and my thanks go to KCS and Mr Royer for putting on such a spectacle for the Station and our many VIP guests.
The annual Founders Day Service at St Clement Danes Church was as spectacular as always with breathtaking musical renditions throughout; a service and reception that were well attended by people from RAF Northolt. It was also a huge privilege to have been escorted by the new Station Commander’s Cadet, Cadet Warrant Officer Jessica Creasey. I was privileged to attend the Commonwealth Air Force Memorial commemoration at the Royal Air Force Memorial, Runnymede. It was a fitting and moving service in such an amazing location; well done to everyone who attended – it was lovely to see so many from the Station paying their respects and looking so very smart. Over this period I was also honoured to lay wreaths at the Polish Memorial in St Paul’s Cathedral, and, on D-Day, at the Ruislip War Memorial and at the Battle of Britain Bunker; having my daughter (an Air Cadet herself) there in uniform not only made me exceptionally proud, but also helped me reflect on what a privilege it is to be part of this amazing Nation’s history, commemorations and celebrations.
I was absolutely delighted that RAF Northolt hosted the infamous RAF Binbrook Bomb Rugby 7s tournament in June.
My thanks go to Sqn Ldr Emile Syrimis, Flt Sgt Jordan Jones and Sgt Danny Bartley, plus so many from across the Station who made this wonderful day happen. It was fun to have a run-out myself, but I maintain that it was a sniper that brought me down in clear space!
My thanks also go to the Families’ Day Committee, ably led by Sqn Ldr Lisa Mitchell. It was a fantastic day that was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. From the excellent food to the many events and the amazing band, there was something for everyone. Although, I am not sure why there was more interest in the Aston Martin than my car! Thank you Team; you did the Station proud with this perfectly organised and run event.
My final thanks go to our new editor Sgt Ellen Driscoll who has done such a great job of bringing all these articles and pictures together. Without her, this magazine would not happen.
I am constantly impressed by the enthusiasm, drive and significant achievements the whole force at RAF Northolt delivers day after day. Keep up the great work and I hope you find some time to have a break over the summer.
TheStation Adjutant, Fg Off Prasin Gurung, acts as a key link between the Station Commander and Station personnel, handling a wide array of responsibilities that are both routine and exceptional.
With 28 resident units on the Station, communication is key; the Station Adjutant disseminates orders and information from the Station Commander to all units and ensures directives are executed efficiently.
Keeping meticulous records and preparing reports for the Station Commander is a crucial part of the role. This ensures that all activities are documented and that the Station Commander is kept informed of any emerging issues. Commanding Officer’s Inspections are a key example of where issues and findings are recorded and used to ensure maintenance and safety standards are upheld.
RAF Northolt hosts a variety of special events, ranging from ceremonial occasions to community engagement activities. The Station Adjutant is integral to the planning and execution of these events, ensuring they
run smoothly and reflect the professionalism of the RAF. In his tenure, Fg Off Gurung has helped with the planning and execution of the Armed Forces Muslim Association Eid-Al-Adha reception, CAS’ Commendations and Townhall events.
The Station Adjutant coordinates with various departments to organize ceremonies such as the Runnymede memorial, Polish Air Force Memorial, and Honours and Awards presentations. Fg Off Gurung finds hosting Station Honours & Awards particularly rewarding as it is an amazing opportunity to recognise the hard work of our whole force and their families.
The Station Adjutant is deputised by AO Simona Ungureanu who is absolutely instrumental to the Station, covering two other roles including Station Adjutant Assistant, Service Fund Auditor and FDS Clerk.
Off-duty, Fg Off Gurung enjoys playing basketball; he has represented the UK Armed Forces during the International Basketball Tournament in SHAPE and competed in several Interservice competitions with the RAF Senior Men’s Basketball Team.”
Priorto departing for the annual Founders Day service at St Clement Danes Church in early April, Station personnel joined Group Captain Jon Hough as he appointed Cadet Warrant Officer (CWO) Jessica Creasey as the Station Commander’s Cadet for 2024, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career with the Air Training Corps. A member of nearby 34F (Balham & Tooting) Sqn since 2019, she has achieved incredible successes: gliding, Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award, Cadet 50 in shooting and the Lord Lieutenant's Certificate for the Borough of Wandsworth.
Her appointment is more than ceremonial and it will place her at the heart of strategic activities within the Station, broadening her awareness and offering her a unique position of influence. As the Stn Cdr’s Cadet she will act as the key advisor on Cadet matters, ensuring members are represented at the highest level.
Having held responsibility for Cadet recruiting and passionate about First Aid and Adventure Training, CWO Creasey is also a highly accomplished marksman and has enjoyed attending RIAT and other Squadron activity camps. Outside of the Corps she is the captain of her Netball team and coaches her school year 10 team. Currently studying geography, CWO Creasey is interested in pursuing a career in urban planning.
Appointment as the Stn Cdr’s Cadet is a well-deserved honour that reflects CWO Creasey’s outstanding contributions to the Air Training Corps and underscores her exceptional leadership skills and consistent excellence, embodying the core values of Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence. Stepping into this position she becomes a role model for the younger generation. Her role will undoubtedly enhance her leadership skills and prepare her for future endeavours, while also benefiting the Cadet community she so passionately serves.
Meet RAF Northolt’s
DATOs Mujahid Rasul and Faisal Mahmood, part of the Cyber Flight who provide telecommunication operational support.
DATOs have many duties, including maintaining the telephony system and auditing the telecommunications inventory, supervising the site’s standalone broadband and installation, assigning and troubleshooting personal MODNet such as iPhones and iPads, and handling non MODNet mobile and satellite phones.
Other duties include Planned Outage co-ordination, having civilian mobile phones and mobile Wi-Fi routers on standby in case of emergencies. This ensures organisations such as ATC and 32 (TR) Sqn have the least disruption to outputs during planned or unplanned outages. We also provide support and advice to Cyber Flight management on telecommunications related matters such as the upgrade from
analogue to digital voice and the improvement of DBI and GovWiFi.
Recently we have been involved in various major projects such as reducing the telephone extension to less than 50% on camp. This will eventually see a healthy reduction in the overall cost of analogue telephone lines. Overseeing the rollout of upgraded fibre broadband, we have also assisted IUS for ceasing dormant mobile devices.
We’re currently working with the Fixed Voice Office (FVO) project team on various premigration activities for the older Meridian Telephone Exchanges to be migrated to the Internet Protocol based new telephone PBX Telephone exchanges.
ABOUT US:
I’m Mujahid Rasul, usually known as Muj. I am qualified as an Electrical & Electronic Engineer and have been working in the telecommunication industry for over 30 years (might be showing my age here!). Prior to joining
In early June, RAF Northolt said farewell to Civil Servant veteran Mr Roger Broadbridge.
Roger has worked for just short of 40 years as a Civil Servant at RAF Northolt, 28 of those in the Registry, and has witnessed many changes over 4 decades. He has worked in different buildings across base and for multiple Station Commanders and Line Managers, whilst remaining a constant pillar at RAF Northolt. Roger will be missed; his professionalism and friendly nature
were loved by everyone he met. Despite not wanting any fuss, he admitted he was quite chuffed by all the attention he received on his last day, particularly appreciating the balloons, decorative banners and a fish and chip lunch with whole force colleagues in the WOSM, followed by a large helping of home baked cake. Gp Capt Jon Hough presented Roger with a framed picture of RAF Northolt activity during WWII, some chocolates to satisfy his wellknown sweet tooth, and a Station
Babcock, I worked for 14 years in a Network Operations Centre (NOC) as a Senior Telecoms Engineer and have been at RAF Northolt for 6 years in August. In my spare time, I like to be at my allotment, close to nature.
I am Faisal Mahmood and I’ve been working as a DATO at RAF Northolt since the beginning of 2022. Prior to my role as DATO, I’ve worked in various jobs ranging from retail, taxi driver, security, deliveries, MOD SPOC service desk and 1st & 2nd line IT support technician. I have a BSc in Network Security and Management and last year, during RAF Northolt Careers Fair, I took the opportunity to sign up for a post graduate
course. I’m currently studying part time for an MSc in Cyber Security with Northumbria University.
Outside of work, my primary hobby is as a BMW car enthusiast, especially the older models. I have a collection of low mileage 1980’s BMWs with some very rare parts which I managed to hunt down over the years and I’m currently going through the process of restoring/re-commissioning them.
I also enjoy weight training, hitting the gym five days a week and can often be found at the Station gym after work most days. My other interests (when I have time!) include reading up on history and different cultures.
Commander coin. Station personnel then turned out in force to cheer and clap Roger’s exit from the Unit via vintage military jeep convoy. While he will be missed by all of us at RAF Northolt, he certainly deserves his retirement. His hard work and diligence have greatly benefited defence. His contributions to our overall daily operation of the ‘Rogerstry’ with the
guidance and training he provided to various people on station prior to his departure, will be sorely missed. While we were all saddened to see him go, we are confident that he will have the same success and happiness in retirement that he experienced during his time within the MoD. Roger has already started his next chapter, volunteering for the British Heart Foundation and continuing his civil service towards his fellow citizens. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours. Retirement will surely offer him many new opportunities, which we know he will embrace wholeheartedly, just as he did within the Civil Service at RAF Northolt. It is the end of an era, but it is not the end of Roger’s journey, it is the road to new beginnings.
Building 27 at RAF Northolt is of considerable historical importance. From its inauguration in 1929 to its closure in 1940, it was a significant contributor to the development of tactics which facilitated the Battle of Britain victory in September 1940.
The building itself has several important links with New Zealand, having been a key sector operations building with 11 Group RAF, commanded through the Battle of Britain by New Zealander AVM Keith Park, AOC 11 Group from April 1940 to December 1940.
Born in Thames and educated at King’s College, Auckland, and Otago Boys’ High School in Dunedin, Keith Park was a decorated WWI pilot who had his first association with RAF Northolt when he commanded the base in 1931–1932. After promotion to the rank of air commodore in 1938 he took up an appointment as Senior Air Staff Officer, reporting to ACM Sir Hugh Dowding, C in C Fighter Command.
In December 1940, after relinquishing the command of 11 Group to AVM Trafford LeighMallory, AVM Park had a short spell as AOC 23 (Training) Group before being appointed the AOC AHQ
Malta, a post he held from 1942 until 1944. He was knighted in 1942 for his role in the defence of Malta and promoted to the rank of air marshal.
From 1944 to 1945 he held the post of C in C Middle East with his final appointment being Allied C in C Air Command South East Asia, a post he heldas an air chief marshal until 1946.
With hostilities over, Park returned to his native New Zealand and held several civilian roles including, in 1962, election to the Auckland City Council before his death in 1975 at the age of 82.
Building 27 was constructed during 1929 as a standardised sector operations building for an airfield capable of supporting three fighter squadrons. It was allocated the
code letter “Z” and thus became the Z Sector Operations Building within 11 Group. It reported directly to 11 Group RAF headquarters at RAF Uxbridge which in turn reported to headquarters RAF Fighter Command at Bentley Priory.
Being the closest fighter station to Fighter Command Headquarters at RAF Bentley Priory, building 27 was heavily involved in exercises between 1936 and 1939 under the auspices of ACM Sir Hugh Dowding to standardise sector operational procedures which would later become a template for the operations at all fighter bases throughout WWII. This became known as “The Dowding System” of ground-controlled interception networks. Indeed, some of the procedures are still valid today.
During the early part of WWII the building supported the operations at Northolt as well as at the satellite airfields of Heston, Hendon and Heath Row (now London Heathrow Airport). Squadrons operating from there at the time were 303 Squadron (Polish), 229 Squadron (RAF) and 1 Squadron (RCAF), plus part of 264 Squadron (RAF). All flew Hawker Hurricanes, apart from 264 Squadron which was equipped with Bolton Paul Defiants.
Later it was realised that building 27 was vulnerable to air attack, and
so on 17 June 1940 operational activity was closed and moved to a bomb-proofed building on the same airfield.
By the end of August 1940, however, sector operations at all fighter airfields were transferred off their local bases as a safety measure, with Northolt’s operations moving to a branch of Barclays Bank at nearby Ruislip Manor. For the remainder of the war building 27 then reverted to less critical use.
With the end of WWII Northolt was, in addition to ongoing military operations, used by civilian operators. British European Airways (BEA) used the airfield from 1946 through to 1954 to launch embryonic European operations. Building 27 was used by the BEA marketing department during that period before it moved to Heathrow Airport, along with BOAC which had moved in from Croydon.
The vacated building was then restored to the RAF as the station education centre and library and was also used by the Support Engineering Squadron. Latterly 32 Squadron used it in support of its fleet of communication aircraft, and its final occupant before closure in 2007 was the station accounts department.
In consideration of the considerable historical interest surrounding this building (which obtained UK Grade 2 listed status
in 2009) and its association with Sir Keith Park, it was fitting that on the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain in 2010 the building was re-opened on 15 September 2010 as a historic site by AVM Graham Lintott, Chief of the RNZAF.
Since then, and under the auspices of restoration team leader Phillip Dawe, considerable renovation and re-installation work has taken place. Mr Dawe has personally invested over 40,000 manhours in the project.
The aim is to bring the building back to the condition it was on the day it was closed on 17 June 1940. Although no early photographs exist of the original building, due to its being classified as Top Secret, blueprints were recovered. A detailed forensic examination of the interior revealed the original location of the plotting table, controller’s gallery and various other items such as electrical conduits.
A considerable amount of time and effort has gone into ensuring the accuracy of detail of the restored and remanufactured items. This has included replacement of all its 1960s-era windows with original Crittall type windows appropriate to the original building, this being generously funded by the Polish Air Force Association with a £50,000 contribution.
Rematching interior fittings using correct materials and parts as used at the time of original construction is considered paramount in this restoration, and a great deal of research work has been done to ensure the detail, right down to the correct colour of paint on the walls. The rewiring alone utilised over four miles of cables.
Within the building, the sector operations room has been accurately recreated with plotting
I was requested to assist the RAF Recruitment team for an event for TG19 engagement. I hosted a chef’s guest night service event with year 1 and 2 students at Taunton Bridgewater College.
This was achieved through demonstrating and mentoring the students through some of the techniques and recipes, incorporating some military key learning points. I also demonstrated certain dishes which have been utilised for KCS public duty engagements at St James’ Palace. Question and answer sessions were held with all the students. We discussed what it means to be a chef in the military, specifically my role supporting Regiment Sqns.
The event was really popular, with guests booking months in advance in order to be able to have a taste of the experience in which was being offered. All contributions go back into the education system which funds equipment and allows these events to happen.
table, tote boards, status boards and telephones. A separate adjacent teleprinter room is complete with operational 1940s equipment and has been faithfully reproduced. The building also houses a small museum with historical artefacts relating to the restoration project. There is also an office and workshop supporting work on the project.
During the 80th anniversary celebrations of the Battle of Britain last year, the Polish Air Force Memorial Committee featured the building in a documentary film about the Polish Air Force involvement in the Battle of Britain. Re-enactors brought a realistic touch, reflecting how the building might have been seen in 1940.
When fully completed, the aim is for the building and its equipment to be fully functional with the anticipation to be able to run simulations appropriate to the era.
The building is privately funded and receives no state aid. For those interested, a charitable contribution can be made via the JustGiving. com website, searching under The Sir Keith Park Building.
In the preparation of this article the author gratefully acknowledges the assistance given by the Building 27 restoration team leader, Phillip Dawe. It should be noted the building is not open to the public, and public access at RAF Northolt is not possible. Specific viewing requests can be made by emailing Phillip Dawe at phillip.dawe@ btinternet.com
On what appeared to be the start of summer RAF Northolt Whole Force personnel conducted the annual FOD sweep of the airfield. There was a great turn out and we managed to have 3 full teams to be able to cover the whole airfield and Churchill hangar after Families Day, including dismantling all the tents. As the photos show
it was a worthwhile event, in addition to the significant items photographed there was a further 5 bin bags of general rubbish picked up. I would like to thank everyone involved for a job well done and WO Potter for getting some muchneeded water out to everyone!
WO Jeanette Ibbs
The RAF Northolt Safety Cell held the Station annual Safety Day on 19 March 2024. The aim was to promote awareness across the spectrum of safety pillars to the Whole Force.
The event took place in Pod 4 south side which provided ample space for exhibits, an array of airfield support equipment, and two impressive Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicles.
Personnel from sections across the Station provided exhibits covering Air Safety, fatigue, Cyber Security, Fire Safety, Health and Wellbeing and Environmental Protection to name a few. The informal environment allowed open discussion across the rank structure and the Whole Force with personnel speaking about challenges they face within their workplace.
Under Operation “ICE CREAM”, BFBS supported the event with their well-travelled ice cream van. Since its inception in 2010 it has
covered more than 300,000 miles and has served up over 250,000 ice creams. Its appearance on the day proved popular judging by the smiles of many people returning for a second helping!
The day also provided a fitting backdrop for the Station Commander, Group Captain Jon Hough, to present three RAF Safety Centre Air Safety awards in recognition of personnel for their diligence and commitment to delivering together safely. Carly Clachers, Matthew Andrews and Antony Flynn were each presented with an RAFSC ‘Well Done’.
If someone in your section has done something which has contributed to Air Safety and should be considered for an RAFSC Air Safety award, please follow leaflet 505 of the Station Air Safety Management Plan or contact the Station Air Safety Officer.
Flt Lt Barry Reynolds RAF Northolt Station Air Safety Officer
Rlast remaining airfield in London but also as a beacon of British aviation history. Twice a year, our storied airbase transforms under the cover of darkness into a vibrant stage for one of the most unique and eagerly anticipated events in the aviation enthusiast community: the RAF Northolt Night Photoshoot. This event, which began in January 2009, was established for the dual purpose of celebrating the rich heritage of RAF Northolt and raising funds for the restoration of its historic buildings, particularly Building 27, a monument to Britain’s aerial defence legacy.
The inception of the Night Photoshoots was driven by the urgent need to save Building 27 from demolition. Built in 1928/29,
first Integrated Air Defence System, under the guidance of ACM Hugh Dowding. The building’s historical significance is immeasurable, having served as the nerve centre for Britain’s air defence during the crucial pre-WWII years. Saved from demolition and listed as Grade II by English Heritage, the building is now undergoing restoration to return it to its 1940 condition, relying solely on volunteers and donations, with no public funding.
The Night Photoshoots at RAF Northolt are more than just fundraising events; they are a celebration of aviation history, technology, and photography. Participants are given the rare opportunity to photograph a variety of aircraft under the unique and dramatic lighting conditions of the night sky. From small singleprop trainers to large transport
and aviation enthusiasts from across the globe.
The most recent Night Photoshoot, held on 7 March 2024, was a landmark occasion, marking the event’s largest turnout since its inception. The airfield buzzed with excitement as attendees captured stunning images of the aircraft on display. The event not only succeeded in raising over £9,000 in donations for the RAF Northolt Heritage Charity, but also served as a vivid reminder of the airfield’s enduring legacy and its role in British aviation history.
With each Night Photoshoot, RAF Northolt continues to build on its tradition of honouring the past while looking to the future. The events offer a unique blend of history and technology, bringing together a community with a shared passion for aviation and photography. As preparations for the next Night Photoshoot on 3 October 2024 are already underway, the anticipation among aviation enthusiasts and photographers is palpable.
Through the lens of the photographers who attend the Night Photoshoots, the legacy of RAF Northolt and its role in defending the skies above Britain is captured and remembered, ensuring that those who served at RAF Northolt before us continue to inspire future generations.
RAF Northolt Night Photoshoots are held on the first Wednesday of March and October each year. For those interested in supporting or attending future Night Photoshoot events, please reach out to Fg Off Julian Mankel or Mr Philip Dawe.
by Fg Off Julian Mankel
A very warm welcome to what feels like the extremely overdue arrival of summer with short sleeve shirts the preferred option for most of us.
Looking back over the last few months RAF Northolt has had an exceptionally eventful period, with a flurry of activities for both Service and civilian operations that underpins our value within the community. March began with a punch as the King’s Colour Squadron once again delivered a top night of entertainment at the Station Boxing event, and despite a shortage of fighters on the night, nothing could detract from the excitement, excellent organisation, and the tangible cohesion for all attending. Station personnel were joined by our contract partners, friends of the Station, and were honoured to host the extraordinary yeoman warders.
The following month began with the appointment of CWO Jessica Creasey as the Station Commander's Cadet for 2024. Her first official duty was supporting Gp Capt Hough along with Service Personnel from across RAF Northolt at the annual Founders Day Service at St Clement Danes Church, followed by a reception event at the Royal Courts of Justice.
June has seen the delivery of several large events. On the first weekend, Station personnel were joined by members of 600 City of London Reserve Sqn in supporting the local Saturday morning park run at nearby Northala Fields. Over 30 personnel provided the marshalling, time markers, safety personnel and morale in abundance, demonstrating immensely positive public engagement and strengthening community bonds. The following week was marked by the Commonwealth Air Force Memorial commemoration at Coopers Hill, Runnymede, a memorial opened in 1953 by the Queen Elizabeth II to honour
over 20,000 air force personnel who were lost during WWII and have no known grave. A solemn occasion; Chief of Air Staff Sir Richard Knighton and senior representatives from across the Commonwealth gathered for the wreath laying service, led by the Chaplain in Chief AVM Giles Legood. On return to base, an opportunity for reflection was held in the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess.
Proving Northolt’s primacy, CAS and the SLT delivered the first of the Town Halls series here, meeting with whole force personnel to offer valuable Q&A opportunities for all who attended. Sadly, the SLT were not able to stay a few more days and so missed out on the Families’ Day, a fabulous event that was open to all Northolt personnel, their friends and families. Whole force team members ensured everyone enjoyed food, the bar, dancing and a whole raft of other activities.
Throughout these months, RAF Northolt balanced its demanding operational duties with events that celebrated its heritage, fostered community, and showcased the resilience and dedication of its personnel. We should all draw a breath and where we can pause, rest, regroup and prepare for the next challenges, wherever we will find them.
A timely collective pat on the back, well done Team Northolt!
With the threat of cyber-crime at an all-time high, it’s becoming increasingly important to improve our cyber hygiene, to keep us secure in both work and personal life. I’m Gabe from RAF Northolt’s Cyber Protection Team and I’m here to show you how you can stay safe in the online world.
Passwords are the first line of defence when protecting yourself online and a strong unique password must be used in each instance. To create a strong password the two best methods are to use the ‘three random words’ method or to use a passphrase:
• Combining three random words makes a harder password to crack than the usual password convention. Adding special characters, numbers, and capitals to different parts of the password can make it secure yet easy to remember. For example, the words ‘house’ ‘doubt’ and ‘rigid’ can be combined and manipulated to form the password ‘H0usedouBtR1gd’
• Passphrases are a combination of words that make up a sentence, a common trick is to use an excerpt from a book you have on hand, that way you don’t have to remember the passphrase itself, just the part of the book it’s in i.e., Frankenstein, page 34, line 5.
If you want to have strong passwords but don’t want the hassle of remembering them, using a password manager could be a better option. Password managers securely store your passwords so you
don’t have to remember them; this allows them to be made unique and strong.
Password managers are built into all Apple and Android devices so no 3rd party install is required. This leaves you only needing to remember your account's password and no other ones.
Some useful sites for password management are: • Password Monster – Tests how strong your passwords are. • National Cyber Security Centre – provides plenty of articles and guidance on online safety and password advice.
For further assistance contact us at: NOR-OpsEngDCPT@mod.gov.uk
Having recently completed an Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Organisational Coaching course, I would like to offer a limited series of free coaching sessions!
WHY
• Personalized Development: Tailored guidance to meet your unique daily challenges.
• Enhanced Performance: Boost your skills and productivity.
•Work-Life Balance: Effective techniques to manage your time.
If you’d like to know more, please contact me on lee.harrison142@mod.gov.uk or find me on Skype/Teams
I have been a D&I Advisor since 2015, part of the RAF Northolt team since 2020, and have recently taken over as the Dep Lead. For me it’s all about people; people are at the heart of everything we produce and the more cohesive the team the better the product. Diversity is having a seat at the table, inclusion is having a voice, and belonging is having that voice heard. Our team is here to listen, support and give advice
to those who don’t believe they are being heard, or have been subject to or witnessed inappropriate behaviour. Driving out inappropriate behaviour takes a persistent and concerted effort at every level. Everyone should be able to work in a respectful, professional, and safe environment.
RAF Ethnic Minorities Conference at RAF Northolt: 1- 2 Oct 24
• Guest speakers will share their history and stories
• Immigration Advice & Policy workshop
• Q&A panels.
World Mental Health Day Event at RAF Northolt: 10 Oct 24
Our main speaker is Mark Widdowson, a renowned psychotherapist, counsellor and psychology author who has also appeared onstage for Ted Talks. Particular focus will be on PTSD and Mental Health Resilience
Paul Minter, Co-Founder of the Head Up Charity, will also speak, and there will be various D&I network stands throughout the afternoon.
Hello from The Link and the SFA Patch.
Well, what a wet few months we have had with the contractors explaining to me the grass is growing quicker than ever! Hopefully in the last few weeks the grass has been cut around your SFA patch. If not, please get in touch with me and I will alert the area manager.
I am pleased to announce that ‘Tea & Toast’ will restart at the Link 04 SEP 24 every other Wednesday for an hour, hosted by Steve, the Station’s Scripture Reader. Watch out for advertising through MoD Net & social media outlets. Open to Whole Force & all families.
Again, I have seen an improvement in the service from Pinnacle and our maintenance contractor Vivo. All I ask is that you follow the process of reporting before contacting me.
If it fails, I will happily engage with the local area managers. The number for the National Call Centre is 0800 031 8628
I’m available on my work mobile: 07825 906502. Email: Paul. Royer342@mod.gov.uk , oldfashioned letter through the post or, if you feel you have any enquires about SFA applications, works services or anything housing related matters, feel free to pop in for a good rant or chat! Always makes you feel better, and the coffee is always on here! Until the next edition…
AUGUST:
1st: World Breastfeeding Week
12th: International Youth Day
19th: World Humanitarian Day
22nd: International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence based on Religion or Belief
26th: Women’s Equality
SEPT:
6th: Colour Blind Awareness Day
10th: World Suicide Prevention Day
18th: International Equal Pay Day 23rd: Bi Visibility Day
International Day of Sign Languages
UK National Inclusion Week begins
29th: World Deaf Day
World Heart Day
OCTOBER:
2nd: Dyslexia Awareness Week
8th: International Lesbian Day
9th: Baby Loss Awareness Week begins 10th: World Mental Health Day
World Homeless Day
World Sight Day
18th: World Menopause Day
29th: World Stroke Day
Station Medical Centre AS1’s Millie Crowe & Laoise Hennessy organised a Charity Bake Sale Event to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. The successful event raised a grand total of £378.40
Air Commodore Simon Harper, Director of Grants, Services and Programmes at the RAF Benevolent Fund served for 34 years in the RAF, including as Station Commander at RAF Halton. Upon leaving the RAF, Simon assumed the volunteer reserve position as Regional Air Officer for the Southeast of England. Simon has experienced firsthand some of the challenges that military life can present for serving personnel and their families, having raised two sons throughout his career with his wife Carolyn. We spoke to Simon about the ways the Fund can be there to support those serving during difficult times.
From your experience, what are some of the posing challenges serving RAF personnel and their families may face?
Due to the transient nature of military life, RAF families are often required to relocate to different bases and locations frequently, sometimes at short notice. My family was no different and I know how disruptive this can be particularly to children’s education. Deployments can also place significant strain on families with the absence of a partner or parent for extended periods often leading to emotional and practical challenges for the family left behind. Assignments can also lead to feelings of isolation especially when moving far from family and friends. Building new support networks in unfamiliar locations can be difficult, as well as finding suitable childcare and ensuring educational stability for children and that is why the Fund has invested over £40 Million supporting children and young people over the last 20 years.
What emotional support does the RAF Benevolent Fund provide for serving personnel and their families to help overcome these challenges? At the Fund, we offer a variety of financial, practical and emotional assistance for serving personnel and their families. This includes grants to help with financial difficulty, access to mental wellbeing support, and practical support such as Airplay youth
clubs. In 2023, we reached over 40,000 members of the RAF Family. To support emotional wellbeing, we offer a free membership to Headspace for serving RAF personnel, Reservists, their partners, and any members of the RAF Family who are currently using our listening and counselling service, that supports and enhances mental wellbeing, also have the option of this free service. Headspace is a ‘gym membership for the mind’ providing access to guided mindfulness exercises, delivered straight to your phone or browser, in bite-sized 10-minute sessions. You can choose different exercises that focus on specific areas such as sport, health or happiness. Mindfulness has been shown to have a positive impact on mood and mental wellbeing –increasing levels of happiness and reducing levels of stress, anxiety and depression – as well as improving health, relationships and sleep quality.
How can serving life affect communication within families?
The demands and unique challenges of serving life can often put a strain on families, and so learning to improve communication becomes a necessary skill. Our online Building Stronger Families platform is tailored specifically for RAF personnel and their families, which aims to equip you and your family with effective communication tools and skills to help develop and maintain meaningful relationships. Each topic has been designed with support for relationships and families of the RAF in mind and includes useful self-help reflection tasks, videos and information on areas including resolving conflict, family life and parenting, communication and being a couple.
The platform also aims to provide couples with the opportunity to explore the impact deployments and extended periods of absence may have on the family unit and help devise ways for you and your family to manage this impact effectively.
What advice can you give to families who may need a break from everyday life?
We recognise that every family is different and that most do superbly well managing daily stresses and strains. Of course, there are times when a break can provide important benefits that contribute to overall health and wellbeing. Taking a break allows you to rest and recharge, reducing the risk of burnout and improving overall health. It can provide a chance to temporarily escape any stresses of duty including deployments, training exercises and demanding schedules. It also allows the perfect opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. This helps to strengthen relationships and provides important emotional support and improves mood – all crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
We offer a selection of wellbeing breaks for those experiencing pressures or challenges who could benefit from a break away.
As part of the RAF’s partnership with Parkdean Resorts, the Fund is now able to jointly offer an expanded range of breaks across a wider number of locations countrywide. These are subsidised by us to make more affordable for serving families in need.
The Fund’s very own holiday home, the Folly, in the seaside town of Bridlington is also available for welfare breaks for serving RAF personnel and RAF veterans all year round.
How can you overcome strains on personal relationships in the military?
Ultimately, maintaining a healthy relationship in the military requires commitment, patience and resilience. I think it also requires the ability to adapt easily and be flexible to each other’s needs and changing schedules. It’s important to prioritise communication and support for one another, as well as quality time to stay connected, whilst together or apart. I recognise that this is not always easy. We have partnered with Relate to offer support to couples who may need it. We provide up to six free counselling sessions, with a trained Relate counsellor
for RAF personnel, Reservists, veterans and their partners. Whether married, living together, in a same-sex relationship, separated, divorced or single, our confidential counselling service can be offered either face-to-face, via video call or over the telephone.
How can military life affect RAF children and young people?
In our "Growing up in the RAF" report, we identified that the main worries of RAF children and young people are deployment and frequent home moves, having to leave friends behind and disrupted education. Over the last 20 years, we are immensely proud to have provided bespoke support for RAF children and their families, including significant investment in childcare centres, play parks, mental health support and our Airplay programme. Since 2019, we have provided over £5.4M in grants to Airplay services across the stations. Airplay provides a safe space to develop skills, enjoy a wide range of activities and spend time with other young people in similar situations. It has a hugely positive impact not only on the lives of young RAF children, but also their parents who tell me that they are grateful to have a safe, supportive and fun space for their children where they can fully embrace and celebrate being a part of the RAF Family.
How can I get in touch with the RAF Benevolent Fund? It’s really important for RAF personnel and their families to know that the Fund is there to support them whenever they should need it, whether its financial, practical or emotional support. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with us by visiting rafbf.org/support or calling 0300 102 1919
Wide-bodied aircraft landing on R25 require West End Road to be temporarily closed for the safety of the aircraft, pedestrians & vehicles below. RAFP from Northolt work closely with ATC & colleagues from the Metropolitan Police to deliver these road closures when the need arises, opening the road again as soon as it’s safe to do so to cause as little traffic disruption as possible.
Although not an official sports association yet, skateboarders from across the RAF have been meeting and training together at parks across the UK with a mission to get the sport recognised officially. Our Station Security Officer Flt Lt Charlie Turnbull is the de-facto Chairman and spends most of his free time skateboarding at various parks across London, and during the working week practices inside the Churchill Hangar on lunch break! RAF skaters will compete at the annual Tri-Service competition on 30 November 2024, held at Pitt St Skatepark in Portsmouth.
If you would like to know more or try it out for yourself, please contact Charlie.Turnbull206@mod.gov.uk
Personnel from RAF Northolt Police Flight attended Runnymede to provide a policing presence, as well as to remember the 20,000 Men and Women from Commonwealth Air Forces who were lost on operations from bases in the UK and North and Western Europe during the Second World War. On the day of the commemorations, they provided security for the RAF & International personnel taking part, as well as helping with traffic management.
If there is anything you want to report to the RAFP, there are several ways to contact us. You can visit Police Flight, which is open during normal working hours Monday- Friday. The number for RAFP is CIV: 020 8833 EXT 8332, Mil: 95233 EXT 8332. You can also report incidents using the QR code on posters that are dotted around camp, this is 100% anonymous and you can do it using your smartphone.
“The
On 5 – 6 Jun 2024, the nation reflected on the actions that took place in Normandy 80 years ago, when Allied forces undertook the largest combined invasion in history – D-Day. This incredible undertaking provided the first sustained foothold in mainland Europe for the Allies since 1940 – alongside numerous other overt and covert operations, marking the beginning of the end of the Second World War.
Though small by the standards of Operation OVERLORD, 32(TR) Squadron personnel were this year also part of a large operation, Op ORBITE, to ensure that the commemorations were supported by UK representatives and were as organised and special as they could be.
In their CSAT role, the AW109 and both Envoy aircraft transported a variety of principals to the commemorative events, including military commanders, the Prime Minister, Secretary of State for Defence, Foreign Secretary, and others. From the initial events taking place in Portsmouth to multiple shuttles across the Channel and beyond, both aircraft types were part of a larger effort including multiple Chinooks,
by Sqn Ldr Tom Mallin
various sizes of land vehicles and even a small flotilla of Royal Navy P2000s. A huge amount of planning went into the operation, with weeks of detailed tri-service and bi-lateral engagement to make sure all logistical plans and contingencies had been taken care of. This proved time well spent, with one of the Envoys becoming unserviceable on the evening of the 5 Jun, but the programme adapting to ‘Plan B’ to maintain support for everything tasked the next day.
Given the geographical constraints of Normandy and the phenomenal volume of people travelling to the area, not everything could be relied upon to go according to plan. “Busy” is an understatement for the traffic in and out of CaenCarpiquet Airport (especially when Air Force One is in town), but the accommodation of the French authorities, the superb British Embassy staff and the reliably excellent flexibility and adaptability of the 32(TR) Squadron crews, meant that all tasks were
achieved and all principals made it to their engagements. One key player who enabled things on the ground to as smoothly as possible was the legend that is Flt Lt Yazdan Chowdhury. Pinged at very latenotice to be the eyes and ears of all British movements coming in and out of Caen, Yaz rose to the challenge, confirming slots, meeting aides, booking handling, and generally developing a deep and heartfelt penchant for anyone who could translate French.
By far the most significant and fulfilling moment for 32(TR) Squadron, was the late-notice tasking and subsequent successful delivery of 104-year-old WREN veteran Christian Lamb to the Normandy coast. Christian had been personally invited by the French Government to receive the Légion d’Honneur from President Macron and she did so amongst a number of other veterans who had also been able to travel. Her involvement in D-Day had been as part of the team who mapped the Normandy coastline from the perspective of a landing craft, so that detailed analysis and preparations could be made for the landings themselves.
A special moment and one of which the crew and squadron were proud to be a part of.
On Thursday 9th May, 32 (The Royal) Squadron welcomed Association members for a visit to RAF Northolt.
The afternoon began with a welcome chat from Wing Commander Eoin Sands (OC 32(TR) Squadron), providing an update on recent operations and a look to the future of the Squadron. Members then made the short trip across the airfield to Building 27. Host Phil Dawe MBE gave a detailed overview of the history of the building, which played an integral role in the air defence of London during World War Two, and told the story of the fantastic restoration work that has been carried out in recent years.
On returning to 32(TR) Squadron, Association members were then able to see both Envoy and A109 aircraft return to Northolt almost simultaneously from their respective taskings in the glorious sunshine, which created a great spectacle from the Squadron’s “Royal balcony”.
All past and present Squadron personnel had a thoroughly enjoyable day sharing experiences and are now looking forward to the next 32(TR)
Squadron Association visit.
Visiting Association members: Steve Appleby, Jane Bowden, Jan Burt, Paul Carr, Roger Chick,
The Royal Auxiliary Air Force celebrated its Centenary with a parade at Buckingham palace on 17 May
24. Nine Squadrons paraded Colours to celebrate 100 years of the RAF’s volunteer reserve service.
Squadrons taking part were:
KCS parading the Sovereigns Standard
502 (Ulster) Sqn
600 (City of London) Sqn
601 (County of London) Sqn
602 (City of Glasgow) Sqn
605 (County of Warwick) Sqn
2503 (County of Lincoln) Sqn
2620 (County of Norfolk) Sqn
2622 (Highland) Sqn
2623 (East Anglian) Sqn
600 Squadron were proud to parade their Standard as part of the parade.
Fg Off Jonathan Rymel was the Colour Bearer and WO Andy Halliwell one of the parade WOs, with OC 600 Sqn Wg Cdr Steven Duddy as a guest in the presence of HRH The Duke of Gloucester and the RAuxAF Commandant General AVM Ranald Munro.
17 May 24
The City of London Committee of the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA) holds an annual competition, Ex SHARPE SHOOTER, to showcase reserve and cadet units.
This year’s event took place on 29 Jan 24 at the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) Barracks in the City of London and the following personnel from the People Operations flight of the 600 (City of London) Sqn RAuxAF were delighted to take part in hosting the event; Corporal Bronwyn Harding, AS1 Hannah Wadhams and AS2 Louise Wright
This was a great engagement exercise where 10 teams, each of 5 civilian personnel, negotiated a series of 10 stands; each stand was hosted by a different City unit of the Military.
The teams were specially selected and consisted of civilians that had been identified as potential recruits or opinion formers within companies based in the City of London.
600 Sqn RAuxAF provided a stand which took the form of a Virtual Reality ‘Bomb Disposal’ Simulator. Cpl Harding, AS1 Wadhams and AS2 Wright were there to administrate, co-ordinate and enagage the teams in this exercise. Flight personnel underwent training on how to set up and use the equipment and were responsible for any technical issues in running the simulator.
It was a very successful event, very much enjoyed by the participants, resulting in much positive engagement outcomes and interest in the RAF Reserve role.
600 (City of London) Squadron, held its annual Commemoration Service and paraded the Squadron Standard in the Lady Chapel at the Priory Church of St Bartholomew the Great, Smithfield on 12 May 24.
The Squadron has a long association with the church where its old Standard has been laid up since 1957. The Squadron was presented with the new Standard in June last year, by Representative
Members of 600 Squadron have achieved a milestone by successfully completing the challenging RAF 2-day march and qualifying for the prestigious Nijmegen Marches in Holland.
The team of 12 Reservists walked 40km a day for two days. With only one retirement from the march, participants received individual medals and a team award for completing the event.
Team leader Fg Off Jonathan Rymel said “Completing the qualification march is a testament to the team’s dedication and determination to take on the Nijmegen Marches, where we will join participants from around the world in walking 40 km per day for four days. Hopefully, their blisters will have healed by then!”
Flight, Logistics and Medical Flight, under the leadership of Sgt Blee, commenced on a 3-day training weekend based mostly in Lincolnshire.
Visiting teams included the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI), who celebrate 200 years in service this year, and Her Majesty’s Coastguard Service which coordinates all maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations in the UK. Other visits included the Anaesthesia Heritage in London, and Wellcome Collection Museum in London. Personnel also visited the International Bomber Command Centre in Lincolnshire (IBCC). This centre recognises the contribution of Bomber Command during WWII when 55,573 young men lost their lives, more than those who serve in the entire Royal Air Force today. At the Anaesthesia Heritage Museum activities included a comprehensive briefing on the history of anaesthesia and pain relief, hands-on experience with airway equipment, and a tour of various anaesthetic and patient monitoring equipment throughout the years.
The ongoing exhibition “Jason and the Adventures of 254” at the Wellcome collection chronicles a child’s journey from hospital admission to recovery. This insightful exhibition provided a unique glimpse into the patient experience.
The following day we undertook a guided tour at the IBCC led by Mr. Geoffrey Thompson. Highlights included a memorial crafted by Lincolnshire stonemasons, a nursery featuring plants
from various continents that supported Bomber Command, and a ribbon remembrance plaque commemorating those who have lost their lives in support including Antis, a German Shepherd who flew alongside his new-found master back to England.
The next stop was Skegness, renowned for its sea-side charm.
The RNLI gave an enthusiastic presentation of the all-weather lifeboat and other capabilities of the station. The station doubles as a museum, showcasing memorabilia dating back to the organization’s inception, including a list of rescued individuals dating back to the 1860s, a propeller from one of Richard Branson’s airship and plaques from various rescue services. Discussions centred around the equipment used for rescue operations. Recruitment and retention emerged as key challenges for the RNLI; being a charity, it struggles to attract and retain volunteers. Sgt Blee concluded the tour by presenting the RNLI with a hand-drawn sketch of their ALB, symbolizing gratitude for their warm welcome.
The last day was spent at HM Coastguard in Humberside guided by paramedic Damien Barnes, part of the SAR team. The team
operate two Sikorsky S-92 aircraft and deal with, on average, 250 operational callouts per year. One typical callout is that of people getting caught in the waves, unable to make it back to shore.
As expressed by a member of the crew; “This is a stark reminder of how quickly things can change at sea and can catch out even the most experienced swimmer. Time is of the essence in these potential
life and death situations, we will always respond to those in need”.
The evenings were spent socialising, with a night at the cinema watching “One Life”, and a lavish meal in a local restaurant. None of the above would have been possible without the Cinema Club, Catering and Accommodation Services at RAF Cranwell and the Logistics Team at 600 Squadron. By aligning their weekend activities with educational and community engagement 600 Sqn exemplifies the dedication to learning, interprofessional relationships and Service characteristic of the Royal Air Force.
A switch of our focus to ceremonial activity recently has seen KCS (63 Sqn RAF Regt) conduct Training Flight, undertake Public Duties at the Tower of London and the London Palaces, celebrate the 80th anniversary of D-Day with Op ORBITE, and a plethora of smaller (but no less important) ceremonial events.
However, keeping the dual role nature of the Squadron at the forefront of our minds, our deployments continue apace, and we celebrate some great results from promotion courses across the Squadron.
Training Flight takes new Gunners and Officers to KCS and puts them through their paces for four weeks, ensuring they meet the high standards of the Squadron. The first two weeks focus on standard foot and arms drill, and the second two weeks on KCS’ signature continuity drill displays. We were fortunate that Gp Cptn Jon Hough came as the Reviewing Officer to
see the final pass out sequence. Top student of the course was Lance Corporal Davies, and Most Improved was AS2 Harrison. During Training Flight, we were also on duty at the Tower of London. This is a firm favourite of the troops, able to be up close with the public and take part in the historic Ceremony of the Keys. This tradition has been going on continuously for 700 years, and has only been delayed once during World War Two when a bomb knocked two Warders off their feet! The troops partake in the Ceremony of the Keys every evening.
Public duties are always a highlight for KCS. Representing the RAF in front of a crowd of 15,000 people on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, and immensely satisfying. This year saw us help celebrate the centenary of the RAuxAF with a Dual Mount, when KCS provides both the New Guard and the Old Guard. This was only the third time we have ever done
this, since first mounting the Guard in 1943. We were honoured to host HRH the Duke of Gloucester as the Reviewing Officer, with over 180 members of KCS and RAF Music Services on parade, and nine Squadron Standards from RAuxAF squadrons. The weeks of rehearsals and kit preparation paid off, and it was a phenomenal morning.
The final element of major ceremonial activity for the Squadron was Op ORBITE, the eightieth commemorative anniversary of D-Day. The Squadron was split in two, with half going to Portsmouth for the events on 5th June, and half going to Normandy for the events on 6th June. To play a part in these events was incredibly poignant, and it was humbling to meet some D-Day veterans and consider their bravery and sacrifice.
Meanwhile, the operations plot continues, with troops deployed. Flight Sergeant Cam Kinvig has recently gone out to take over from Sergeant Lee Broster, who deployed before Christmas.
We can’t wait to welcome Lee’s team back at the end of June. Looking ahead, the Squadron is taking part in the Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo, Canada, before fully immersing itself in predeployment later this year.
The Royal Air Force Band play at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Vigil (left) and the CWGC Bayeux War Cemetery (below).
Combined Bands of the Royal Air Force at Ver-sur-Mer.
All images Crown copyright.
If ever there was the right time to escape the cold, wet, grey skies of Ruislip, then this was it. In culmination of months of preparation, 13 RAF Northolt personnel, accompanied by staff from RAF Waddington and Shawbury participated in the annual Malta Marathon during a successful blended FD trip to the Maltese Islands.
Teams from 90SU Leeming, RTS Halton, Marham and Cosford have represented the RAF at the annual Malta Marathon since 2014. Held in February to capture early spring sunshine, it promised to be not too hot and hopefully, not too wet (more on that later)….! Previous years saw the RAF being part of an international field of over 4000 runners of all standards, but for Northolt, following on from successes at the 2023 event, this year was to be ever so slightly different.
Malta for many means summer: sun, sea, wonderful vacations, lazy evenings along the promenades, sea food, drink, Island tours and a dose of tourist shopping, but for those of us on the 2024 event, it turned out to be so much more. This year the team undertook Force Development with the marathon a mere ‘addition’ to the adventures over the course of 5 days.
participants duly accepted, signing up to the half or full race or, if training hadn’t quite gone to plan, to the 13 mile walk, taking in the same route as the half marathon.
by Sgt Jason Shutt
city – a wonderful start to what would be a packed day of learning.
As ProjO, I had to play sensible adult to ensure personnel were ready for the marathon. This meant months of dedicated training routines, balanced nutrition, the right trainers, and motivation with a splash of expert advice. The
Training runs took place every Wednesday and Friday morning with the odd ad-hoc distance test in the week. The team explored Ruislip Lido and 16K of the Jubilee Thames Path from the O2 arena to the London eye. From this point on, Park Run seemed quite literally to be, well, a walk in the park...! However, there was one session in particular that stood out: It was late September of 2023; I optimistically thought that by then the British summer heat would be subsiding. I had planned a 12K afternoon jolly (I mean serious run) from Northolt to Wembley which would really test fitness standards and give us an idea of what we might be up against in Malta. Running to Wembley (a surprisingly significant uphill trajectory from Ruislip), through Harrow and into Brent
town centre, in 33-degree, blue sky heat with very little wind did certainly test stamina; we had chosen the hottest day of the year!
The Maltese Islands have close ties with the United Kingdom, and particularly the Royal Air Force. Our focus during the visit was to learn and discover the full impact of WWII on the Maltese People, and the RAF achievement in staving off prolonged air attacks in what could have been the biggest loss for the allies had it all gone wrong. This learning was the motivation behind Exercise St. George Cross.
Arriving in Malta late on the Friday, we greeted Waddington and Shawbury, and after a relaxed brief in the hotel lounge on the days ahead it was time to discuss plans for day 1 of our FD diary. On Saturday morning we took advantage of the glorious sunshine and calm sea by using the Sliema to Valletta water taxi to get into the fortified capital
The short 20-minute hop led to steep walks from the harbour to the centre of the city and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where our learning began. Located on the upper tier of the St Peter and Paul Bastion, the Gardens overlook the Grand Harbour and provide a vista of all that happened on the Island; not just during WWII but also invasions from centuries earlierfrom the Turks to the Knights of St. John who evolved to protect Malta from all who dared to venture close to its shores. The lower tier houses the City Saluting Battery from where two live cannons are fired at midday across the harbour, forming the centrepiece of our tour of Malta and how she defended herself during WWII.
The Lascaris War Rooms – bunkers – are located beneath the bastion walls. The underground complex of tunnels and chambers served as the War HQ during the conflict. Each participant researched their own staff ride question and the tunnels provided a plethora of facts and memorabilia, including Op rooms and equipment, ensuring a full appreciation of how air operations were conducted to protect the Islands from the Luftwaffe. It is here where the most vital element of the RAF was based; the Sector Fighter Control Room was supported by vast filter rooms and where all radar traffic was channelled. The facilities once guarded complex encryption machines in amongst communication rooms located
deep underground. The control room communicated to the airfields on Malta – RAF Luqa (now the international airport), RAF Hal-Far and RAF Ta ‘Qali (home to Spitfire and Hurricane squadrons) – and staff worked tirelessly to keep Malta on her feet, despite the daily onslaught from nearby occupied Sicily. The tour of this vast complex delivered far more than expected and it was here that the team learned how, in July of 1943, Operation Husky – the invasion of Sicily – was initiated. The bunkers were home to General Eisenhower alongside Supreme Commanders Admiral Cunningham, Field Marshal Montgomery, and Air Marshal Tedder.
The strategic success of this Op was a significant turning point in the war and would ultimately lead to victory in the Mediterranean, allowing for positive gains across the rest of Europe and North Africa, and ultimately contributing to the surrender of Germany many months later. This came at a colossal price. Malta became the most bombed island in the world, its population almost annihilated into starvation as the cannons protecting the Grand Harbour desperately defended incoming supply ships and the RAF attempted to hold superiority of the air. This heroic defence and resilience led to King George VI awarding the people of Malta ‘The George Cross’, recognised as the highest award for bravery available to civilians.
Our journey continued into unfinished war tunnels, dug out of the limestone beneath Valletta. Existing tunnels post war were taken over by NATO and developed into the Mediterranean Fleet HQ, providing vital facilities for campaigns to intercept Soviet submarines. These were used during the Suez Crisis of 1956 and the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, during which the Maltese were directly threatened with a nuclear attack.
The unfinished tunnels were abandoned following the British withdrawal in 1979. However, with Malta Heritage, Government, and
local funding, they remain open today as a reminder and insight into the extreme measures felt necessary at that time to make sure Malta was able to defend herself during any future conflict.
We discussed the day over a Cisk, the much-celebrated local pale ale, and Maltese delicacies. We were all struck by a newfound respect and understanding for Malta and her people. Sunday morning was fast approaching, and I don’t think I’ve ever monitored a weather app so intently! Being a bit of a meteorological nerd, I was well aware of the threatening lowpressure system drifting across from Tunisia and what that could mean for us on Sunday. From our vantage point in the gardens I had pointed out to the north where Mdina was, identifying the castle wall high on the hills of Rabat. In the distance, the church dome sitting on the skyline gave our runners a glimpse of how far away the start line was. At that particular
moment, there was no clue in the sky as to what weather would greet us early the next day!!
The only way to describe the rain that greeted us on the morning of race day – torrential.
As a Maltese myself, I have never witnessed torrential and persistent rain like that. I later learned that the organisers almost cancelled the event, citing health and safety issues. Thankfully, they didn’t.
The historic city of Mdina, Malta’s original capital, is located some 800ft above sea level. From this point you can see the entire Maltese archipelago; it was the perfect standpoint in the Middle Ages to warn of advancing armies. Today, it’s referred to as the ‘Silent City’; visitors are free to roam the maze of streets where you experience Malta as it once was, quite literally, in silence.
A grand entrance probably recognisable to Gladiator and Game of Thrones fans was the
start line for the race. Getting soaked, each runner prepared themselves for the distances that lay ahead. Undeterred, team Northolt full and half marathon participants quickly agreed the best way to proceed: smile, chin up, dream of the sun appearing later in the day, and let’s do this!
The gun went off, and a couple of thousand of drenched runners splashed their way through street rivers, getting into a whole new level of effort I don’t think anybody had anticipated.
Despite my best efforts to protect my kit, my phone and ear pods soon decided enough was enough and by the 15th KM of 42, they were done, soaked, and finished almost as much as my feet. At the age of 51, amongst the oldest within the team, I began to question my very existence on such a distance. The Maltese setting, the countryside and streets of historic architecture certainly helped; keeping spirits up and pushing on, I convinced myself that this would probably be my last marathon.
Despite many marathons ran before, this was by far the hardest. It quickly became a mental agility test over and above the physical challenge. Everyone worked so hard to not let the conditions beat them. I had briefed them on the splendours of the course, to look out for known movie settings along the way including passing by the ‘Black Pearl’ galleon now moored in Pieta, indicating the final 2K. Pieta itself, a beautiful small port harbour town, was visited by
Princess Elizabeth and her new husband the Duke of Edinburgh on their first visit to Malta in 1951.
Conditions slowly improved. With no music and reduced crowds, a lot of talking to oneself was the ticket and, it worked. The whole of Team Northolt and those from Waddington and Shawbury crossed the line, tired, in pain and relieved for it to be over and with no injuries or concerns. Surprisingly, everyone had said how much they enjoyed the experience and that really, the weather in some ways had helped.
With race day concluded, it was time for day 2 of FD – in wonderful, warm sunshine, of course! Fort Rinella was our destination, located on the opposite side of the Grand Harbour, where the fortification of the 3 cities form the complete defence of Malta and guard its main strategic supply route.
Looking over the harbour towards Kalkar, Fort Rinella was easily identifiable due to the temporary film set of ‘Gladiator 2’. The makeshift Coliseum was still in full view. Locals advised that the best way to get across was by water taxi as by road would take forever. Down at the harbour front we were presented with a Maltese Luzu – a canoe style boat with a tiny engine and oars! Before long, boat number two appeared and with St. Paul smiling on the calm sea swell, we embarked on an adventurous trip across to Kalkar. Built by the British in 1886 to guard the naval base in Malta, Fort Rinella is accessed via the Grand Harbour and was originally built due to the arming of two Italian warships, equipped with equally potent cannons. Malta was always, for centuries, under siege and its early preparations would prove useful defence in the future. Right from the creation of the war
tunnels, the fortified cities and the cannons, Malta had created a worthy defence by the time WWII had reached its shores. The enemy were aware that the world’s largest cannon was the Maltese welcome if you sailed with malicious intent and too close to the harbour.
Padre David Skillen delivered his Field Service to commemorate the fallen and to offer prayer for the Maltese people and all those serving in the military. The Padre not only delivered a very poignant field service but was also our team entertainment with audiences gathered around the hotel bar piano for renditions of just about any Take That
tune; the performance was repeated in the airport departure lounge to great delight!
FD completed, the team settled down at a harbour side café, to await the toy boats and return to Valletta. With time to enjoy the sun, it was the perfect setting to complete our stand questions and wash up our learned experiences.
A full discussion was soon in full swing with so much understanding and appreciation of what the RAF had done for Malta, how its presence is still felt and how welcome we were made to feel by the Maltese people. Malta still talks of the British occupation and its legacy can be felt from old
pillar boxes to driving on the left amongst classic 1960’s vehicles. The old airfields are still functioning in some capacity and will form part of the 2025 Ex St. George Cross visit.
Ta ‘Qali is now transformed into the Aviation Museum and the national stadium, with Hal-Far, the first permanent airfield built on Malta now emerging as a huge industrial hub and another film location selected for the Tom Hanks movie as Captain Phillips, the epic true story of modern-day piracy at sea. Luqa, the international airport, was formerly RAF Luqa. From here the RAF presence ended after a 60-year lease on the Island. Fittingly, on the day we returned to Heathrow, our aircraft was parked right outside the old RAF hanger where RAF movers and ground crews would have been stationed. I have fond memories as a child back in the 70’s being stopped from boarding an RAF Hercules parked alongside our Air Malta ride, on that very stand. A poignant moment for me personally.
2011, was the most recent call Malta made to the West for military assistance as Libya fell during the Arab spring of that time. Under direct threat by the Libyan regime, just 120 miles south of the Island, the RAF were ordered to deploy and defend on Op Ellamy. Allied forces enforced a UN sanctioned no-fly zone over Libya, with the Grand Harbour hosting HMS Westminster. The whole situation flared up when two Libyan pilots defected in their jets and landed on Malta to claim asylum. Colonel Gaddafi issued a direct threat to the Maltese. I recall my time on leave in Malta during that period seeing RAF assets at Luqa Airport; a timely reminder that a threat of war is never too far away. Needless to say, the RAF presence was enough to keep Gaddafi and his regime at bay. This visit had everything; historic tours, soaked trainers and sore legs; warm sunshine supporting coffeefuelled discussions; a piano playing Padre and an ad hoc Captain Gabbs as our water taxi boat commander – gleefully taking control of the last boat across the Grand Harbour. Education was fulfilled, first time marathons achieved, and memories made. Malta delivered.
The 2024 event was successful in every way imaginable, and the team thoroughly enjoyed the diverse nature of Ex St. George Cross. It is hoped that 2025 and beyond will be as successful to become a formidable and attractive part of the Northolt FD diary.
by Padre Dave Skillen
From 23-27 May 2024
I had the honour and privilege of leading members of the RAF Whole Force community on pilgrimage to Lourdes in the south of France. We formed part of a 350 strong UK contingent participating in the 64th annual International Military Pilgrimage (IMP) and, again this year, all had a fabulous experience on so many levels.
For me, one of the greatest joys of the IMP is that though a story and pilgrimage of Catholic origin, all are invited and welcomed, regardless of faith or background. Indeed, Lourdes welcomes a
huge diversity of people from across the world throughout the year, each having their own personal reason for visiting.
The IMP is an occasion of breathtaking poignancy. Please read on for some personal reflections written by some of the personnel who participated; I invited No1 AIDU’s AS1 Jack Morgan to reflect on his experience of his first ever IMP. You can read Jack’s full account of his visit on the Bishopric of the Forces website, but here’s a snippet of his experiences, alongside those of some other participants. I hope they will inspire you to consider coming with us next year, 15-19 May 2025.
My thanks to all who have offered their personal comments. Rosie Lofty has also shared her reflections on the journey to Lourdes on the Bishopric of the Forces website. To all who read this edition of the Northolt Approach, my best wishes to you and yours for the coming months of summer which I hope will be a time of fulfilment and peace.
Padre Dave
In a world divided by borders, politics, and conflicts, the International Military Pilgrimage (IMP) to Lourdes offers a unique opportunity for unity and spiritual reflection. This year, the UK contingent joined tens of thousands of military personnel from around 40 nations in a journey of faith and camaraderie. Rooted in a tradition of post-war reconciliation dating back to 1958, the pilgrimage aims to foster fraternity among military forces.
Some members of the UK contingent shared their personal experiences and reflections with me:
AS1 Daniel Wynne, remarked that “the sense of unity between the attending nations during the pilgrimage is something that can only be explained by God’s grace”.
This was AS1 Wynne’s second IMP – he very much hopes to participate again next year, adding “after having attended IMP for the first-time last year, I realised that I would get more from each visit”.
Sergeant Jo Harvey writes “I attended the IMP as a non-Catholic. I was made to feel welcome by both the Church and all in attendance. I learned so much, not just about Catholicism, but about myself and about those I had the pleasure to share this special event with. The pilgrimage is one of the military’s best kept secrets and I feel blessed to have been part of it.”
MOD Civil Servant, Mrs Rosie Lofty, said, “Padre, I will always be grateful for this wonderful opportunity, for being encouraged to join. I would also like to thank you on behalf of
everyone; sincere gratitude for your openness and welcome, including us all to take part in such a special, unique experience in the most beautifully sacred place. I really felt that I belonged with the military, the camaraderie was inexplicable.”
One RAF corporal had this to say: “Not being Catholic made me wonder if I would be or feel out of place on the pilgrimage, but those thoughts got put to the side when the meetings and talks started prior to going. Lourdes is a place where one can contemplate their thoughts, meditate, and think about things that are normally pushed to one side due to other commitments. The programme is full on, but everybody supports each other. The interactions with each other in the UK Military group and attendees from other nations are difficult to explain, the language barrier seems not to be an issue. To see the pride that all the pilgrims have in their own different countries, uniforms and colours is amazing. I would recommend at least one trip to Lourdes, be it with the IMP or through other means, it will more than likely be your first of many visits there.”
We all returned from the pilgrimage with a new sense of purpose and a deeper connection with friends from home and abroad. Since IMP, I have felt a profound and lasting sense of renewal, increased morale, and determination. Many pilgrims were cleansed by the waters of St Bernadette’s Grotto in much the same way as Psalm 51:7 aptly describes – Purge me with hyssop and I shall be cleansed: wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.
I would encourage everyone to consider going to Lourdes on this life-enhancing trip.
The Northolt Athletics Team is looking for Athletes of all abilities to compete in a variety of events throughout the year. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, there’s a place in the team for you. There are numerous training camps and talks are ongoing with Uxbridge athletics club to provide weekly training sessions for Northolt personnel. Our aim is to foster a friendly environment for all to train and participate, and to encourage development all the way to RAF level standard.
If you are interested, please get in contact with AS1 Connor Jones, OC Station Athletics.
Over the past year, the No 1 AIDU Horticultural Group has created new, vibrant flower beds behind the Fowler Building and a display of plant pots at the main entrance.
After navigating numerous Station regulations and consulting with Air Traffic Control, wildlife control teams, and Station Executives, the group brought their horticultural vision to life. This has been a team effort; support from No 1 AIDU personnel, the NAAFI Fund, and RAF Northolt Executive Team has been invaluable. Volunteers from No 1 AIDU came together to prepare the soil, plant flowers, and build wooden plant pots. They were inspired by generations of RAF Northolt personnel before them including those who grew vegetables during the Battle of Britain as part of the “Dig for Victory” campaign. The team transformed an overlooked patch of grass into a small but welcoming garden
area, enhancing RAF Northolt’s aesthetic appeal. The local bee population will appreciate this new, vibrant stop on their nectar-gathering routes.
Looking ahead, the Horticultural Group plans to expand, with ideas including new plant varieties, educational workshops, and community events such as an upcoming sunflower growing competition. A greenhouse and a patio area for social events are also under consideration. The goal is to create a welcoming space for learning, relaxation, and community connection, especially for those living in SLA without their own gardens or allotments. Additionally, interest in beekeeping is growing, reflecting a trend seen on several RAF stations. Gardening has a unique ability to bring people together, and the Horticultural Group aims to nurture both plants and friendships within No 1 AIDU and the wider RAF Northolt community. The benefits of green spaces
to mental health, which have been studied extensively, are significant. One team member recalls a welfare pond and garden area during a deployment in the Emirati desert on Operation KIPION, which provided an oasis of serenity away from stressful working conditions. This experience underscores the impact of charity-funded welfare projects on the Defence community. The creation of this small garden symbolises the No 1
AIDU Horticultural Group’s commitment to community and welfare. Despite multiple challenges, the Horticultural Group persevered, showcasing the power of collaboration and shared passion. The Horticultural Group is optimistic about future opportunities, knowing a seed has been planted that will continue to make a small corner of RAF Northolt bloom.
AS1 Jack Morgan
On 18 Apr 24 RAF Northolt Boxing Club held its annual boxing event. Open to the whole force at RAF Northolt, their guests, and 100 service and civilian VIPs, the event was attended by approximately 450 guests.
The Churchill Hangar was transformed; replete with boxing ring, lighting, DJ booth, two bars and a food stall, and the Band of the RAF Regiment provided a fanfare team for the arrival of VIPs and the national anthem. After a brief welcome by Stn Cdr Gp Capt Jon Hough, Northolt’s own WO Paul Royer took to the centre of the ring as event MC, adding his usual flair to the proceedings much to the delight of all in attendance.
Due to unforeseen circumstances a large number of boxing bouts were sadly cancelled. However 6 boxers from across RAF Shawbury, the RLC, REME and Golden Ring Boxing Club stepped into the ring to provide 3 incredible bouts for the spectators to enjoy. Following a final thank you from the Stn Cdr, the hangar transformed into a dancefloor with guests partying late into the night.
Special thanks go to the Golden Ring Boxing Club in Southampton who helped train the RAF Northolt team.
by Flt Lt Ryan Fox
On Wednesday 12 June 24, RAF Northolt had the privilege of hosting the historic Binbrook Bomb tournament.
The tournament has been running for over 60 years and brought together 9 teams from 7 RAF Stations across the country. The day began with the Binbrook Bomb Trophy being delivered in style to the Stn Cdr, Gp Capt Hough, by helicopter.
After progressing through the group stages, the day culminated with a highly competitive finale between RAF Marham and RAF Odiham who were the current cup-holders. Odiham looked like they were heading for defeat but rallied during the final few moments, providing a highly charged finish with a couple of tries and a conversion to overcome Marham 17-10 and retain the trophy.
A team made up of 6 Reservists from 600 (City of London) Squadron have lifted the Plate in an annual netball tournament in Cyprus.
Nabbing the win with just one point in a gripping final, the group had greatly improved from the first day of playing together that week. Regulars from RAF Northolt including two AS1s led the team, with Team Manager AS1 Lucy Hemmings holding her own alongside NCOs and officers.
The team included seasoned netballers who regularly compete, such as Cpl Spicer and Sgt Mortimer, as well as other members who hadn’t played the
game for several years (decades in some cases!). They were also fortunate to have a member of the Army Air Corps L/Cpl Chelsea Ribbon in their midst whose experience on the court proved invaluable.
The week of training, games and social activities really helped the team to bond and all teams in the competition enjoyed the nightly activities – with the team winning big on the bingo (perhaps it was a sign of things to come!).
The RAF Northolt Cricket Club welcomes players of all abilities. Training sessions are held on Mondays and Thursdays from 17:00 in the Sports Hall. Currently we play for the InterStation League and T20 Cup of which we are defending champions. We’re lucky enough to play all our home games at the RAF’s ‘Home of Cricket’, Vine Lane.
Later this year we will be entering the Inter-Station 6-a-side tournament and undertaking our third cricket tournament at La Manga Club Resort, Spain.
If you are interested in getting involved with the station team please contact Sgt Ben Murray - Benjamin.Murray102@mod.gov.uk or AS1 Hoisher Ghising - Hoisher.Ghising100@mod.gov.uk
On 04 Apr 2024 Cpl Nance from Eng Flight 63 Sqn competed at the annual RAF Powerlifting Championships.
Coming hot off the heels from representing the RAF at the 2023 Inter Services Championships, Cpl Nance went into the competition after months of training to raise his overall numbers and to fight for his place on the 2024 Inter Services team.
As with all competitions the first lift was Squat in which he reached 175kg, a 2.5kg increase from his last comp. this was followed by Bench in which he achieved 140kg, a 7.5kg increase from his last comp and won his Flight. Finally, it was Deadlift in which he got to 240kg, a 5kg increase from last time. His final total was 555kg, a 15kg increase from his last total finishing 6th out of 57.
Cpl Nance is eagerly awaiting to find out if he has been selected for the 2024 Inter Services.
