Lions Roar Autumn 2023

Delivering world-class training to the Joint Helicopter Command

CAE’s Medium Support Helicopter Aircrew Training Facility (MSHATF) at RAF Benson has delivered an unparalleled training standard to the UK Support Helicopter Force for over 20 years. Royal Air Force aircrews and international militaries have benefitted from the world-class training and pre-deployment mission preparation received at the MSHATF.

As a world-class training systems integrator, CAE offers comprehensive training solutions to help make military aircrew training more efficient and effective.

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From the Publishing Team

Welcome to the Autumn 2023 issue of the Lion’s Roar.

It’s been great to hear about all the activities and achievements of our Station and community. Well done to our hockey team, and a special thanks to Flt Lt Peters for her informative article on how the gate guardian came to be.

Thank you to everyone who submitted an article over a busy summer period, and if you go out and about over the coming months, please let the editorial team know what you have been up to. Articles along with any pictures can be sent to BENLionsRoarMagazine@mod.gov.uk. 500-700 words is perfect, but we can consider shorter or longer articles. Also, please minimise military acronyms wherever possible.

I hope you enjoy the magazine.

Sgt Rachael Williams Lion’s Roar Editor

INTERNATIONAL MILITARY PILGRIMAGE LOURDES 2023

PUBLISHER

Lion’s Roar is published by Lance Media Group Ltd, 1st Floor Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants NN16 8NL

Tel: 01536 334223

ADVERTISING MANAGER Jayne Bailey

Tel: 01536 334219

Email: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk

DESIGNER Amanda Robinson

PRINTER Micropress

ALL CORRESPONDENCE AND FEATURES TO… Sgt Rachael Williams Flt Lt Dent

Email: BEN-LionsRoarMagazine@ mod.gov.uk

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RAF

DISCLAIMER:

Lion’s Roar

OIC/EDITOR

Sgt Rachael Williams

606 Sqn

DEPUTY EDITOR

Flt Lt Amy Dent

28 Sqn

33 SQN REP

Foreword

from the Station Commander...

Hello and welcome to the Autumn edition of the Lion’s Roar.

I trust that you and your families were afforded the opportunity to take a wellearned break and much needed leave over the summer period. For those of you that remained at or close to Benson I hope you took time to enjoy the beautiful South Oxfordshire countryside. For my perspective it reminded what a privilege it is to live in this part of the world.

Since I last wrote, all aspects of the Station have of course been as busy as ever

but there have been some notable highlights. In mid-June RAF Benson had the honour of hosting the annual cadet muster. This saw 1600 cadets descend on the Station from around the country where they were afforded the opportunity to have an insight in to what life is like in the Royal Air Force by visiting various stands to conduct STEM activities and physical and mental challenges. In addition, close to 1000 cadets were given opportunity to undertake Air Experience Flying on the back of Chinook and Puma helicopters. I see this as Benson doing our part in investing in the future of the Royal Air Force. Alongside this a Puma crewed by 28 Sqn flew with Chinooks from

RAF Odiham as part of the King’s Birthday Flypast.

The “See What You Can Be” day also held in June hosted 200 schoolgirls and their teachers from Oxfordshire and Berkshire. The day showcased the array of career opportunities within the RAF and civilian sector STEM roles through the guest speakers and Station personnel who supported the event to make it a huge success.

In May we hosted Air Marshall Harv Smyth the RAF Air and Space Commander. During his town hall event, he spoke with close to 150 Benson based service personnel and highlighted the key role that the RAF continues to play in protecting the UK and her interests at home and abroad, and in supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces in countering the aggression that continues to be displayed by Putin’s Russia.

Overseas, our deployed Pumas of both 84 Sqn, Cyprus and 230 Sqn (nee 1563 Flt), Brunei have continued to develop at pace settling into their respective Battle Rhythms. Most significant has been the re-deployment of 230 Sqn to its permanent home all ably assisted by MT drivers and supply Reserve personnel from 606 Sqn.

Back at Homeplate the Puma HC1 Gate Guardian was unveiled by Air Marshal Richard Maddison, and approval has been granted for Electric Vehicle Charging (EVC) points at RAF Benson. The EVC points, anticipated to arrive early 2024, are a positive move and key to the success of future sustainability. Thank you for your continued commitment in working towards a better future for RAF Benson, our families, and our community.

Flt Lt Thomas Mullins

28 SQN REP

AS1 O'Brien

Ext: 7722

LS REP

Fg Off Becky Bull

Ext: 7428

EXPEDITION

AND SPORTS REP

Post vacant

BSW REP

Post vacant

OPS WG REP

Flt Lt Tom Barber

Ext: 8139

606 SQN REP

Flt Lt Fern Gwinnett

606 Sqn Media, Ext: 7238

JHSS REP

Flt Lt Matty Snape

Ext: 7549

PHOTO AND IMAGERY REP

AS1 Sam Dale

Ext: 7265

CARTOONIST

Post vacant

COVER CREDIT

AS2 Josh Gorman

84 Sqn

Flt Lt Jim Fielding

On Friday the 31st of March 2023, after a ‘round the Island’ formation flight with the outgoing Griffin HAR 2, Sqn Ldr Dusko Frost took command of 84 Sqn, and the mighty Puma officially took on the role of providing Emergency Response and Support Helicopter (SH) support to the British forces based in Cyprus. Holding ‘Readiness State (RS) 60’, meaning that the squadron can launch a suitably crewed aircraft within 60 minutes (although during a recent real response, the crew managed to be airborne in 10 minutes), 84 Sqn are trained and equipped to deal with a multitude of emergencies including situations requiring land or maritime winching, medical evacuation, or aerial firefighting (currently a work in progress).

Aircraft and personnel began arriving on the island in midFebruary (flying the cabs across Europe was excellent and a story in its own right) and the next six weeks were spent setting up and conducting all the necessary training to ensure that come the handover the Puma and her crews would be ready. Despite taking on a new role in a new environment, the training progressed well, and the aircrew made quick work of the syllabus that mainly consisted of utilising the winch over both land and sea, as well as medical training for the crewmen. The engineers and ground crew, initially based at the opposite end of the airfield to the rest of the squadron whilst waiting for the Griffins to move out, did sterling work to ensure the aircraft remained available. This combined effort, conducted alongside personnel having to settle into Cyprus, meant that on the last day of March 84 Sqn hit the ground running, taking over

Emergency Response (ER) from Griffin and continuing to hone their new skills.

Initially, much of the flying done alongside holding RS60 focused on building and refining the skills required to effectively conduct winching over sea and land. Whilst it may look easy whilst watching it from the shore, hovering over the sea without visual references can be challenging for pilots, and the precision required when deploying a crewman on the end of a winch cable in close proximity to cliffs or difficult terrain takes close teamwork between the cockpit and cabin. For the crewmen, recovering a casualty is often only the beginning of their job; they also need to be able to assess their condition and make decisions about how and where to best treat their potential injuries. An image of Sgt Steve Graham deciding how best to approach a simulated casualty and subsequently assessing how best to move them, under the watchful eye of Sgt Mikey Fellows.

On the 28th of June, the training paid off when the ER crew responded to the real emergency alarm going off. Flt Lt Luke Cushen captained Flt Lt Minns and Sgt Ethan Pearce on 84 Sqn’s first real callout as ‘RESCUE 08’; a casualty requiring urgent medical care was reported at a nearby popular beach. The crew managed to be airborne and enroute within 10 minutes of the alarm going off and were on scene within 12 minutes. Although the recovery of the casualty was straightforward (no winching required), it was apparent after speaking to paramedics already on the beach that urgent and serious medical care was required. The crew proceeded to Nicosia hospital, conducted a landing on the rooftop Helicopter Landing Site (HLS) and offloaded the casualty and paramedics –getting to the hospital in timely fashion undoubtedly saved life.

Satisfied with a prompt response and successful rescue, the crew Return To Base (RTB)’d and in time honoured fashion passed their brew order over the ops radio. This excerpt from the 84 Sqn F540 is how the tale ends – “Sadly the brew order hadn’t got to the end of the chain and empty mugs with dry tea-bags was the extent of the hero’s welcome.”

As well as conducting and training for ER, the Sqn has also been taken part in multiple ‘SH’ exercises, most notably Ex KRONOS HUNTER and Ex ZEUS. Whilst relatively simple troop movements, Ex KRONOS HUNTER, an ongoing exercise with multiple iterations, gives regiments and reserves visiting Cyprus for training, the opportunity to work with SH. Ex ZEUS saw 84 Sqn take part in a joint exercise between the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, based locally at Episkopi, and the Cypriot National Guard; operating from an HLS staging post in the mountains of central Cyprus, the Pumas initially deployed sniper teams to an observation post, using terrain to mask their approach and departure, and eventually moved the rest of the troops into position for the exercises final assault. Whilst developing a full firefighting capability is still a work in progress, in May the Sqn was invited to take part in Ex PYRSOS, the Cyprus forestry departments annual pre-season firefighting exercise. Flt Lt’s Sinclair and Wallis, with MACr ‘Seaweed’ Seward and Sgt Mikey fellows in the cabin, all stalwarts of Griffin, joined multiple other aircraft including fixed wing firefighters to tackle simulated blazes under the direction of an overall firefighting commander. Whilst teething problems with the bucket slightly hampered their efforts, the crew nonetheless managed to conduct successful water drops on their assigned targets.

In addition, the Sqn has supported several local events

with flypasts and static displays, most notably ‘Aki Fest’ which celebrated Families Day and the Kings Coronation, and more recently the Armed Forces Day celebrations. Apparently, Commander BFC, an ex-Harrier pilot, was extremely impressed with the ‘to-the-second’ timing of the Annual Families Day flypast at Episkopi. The captain of the ‘Aki Fest’ Flypast and parachute drop submitted the following report.

“On Sat 6 May, RAF Akrotiri celebrated a magnificent Pu Fce display of parachute dispatch and flypasts various as part of Families Day and the King’s Coronation. Puma display team and parachute Subject Matter Expert (SME), Flt Lt Wood, with Flt Lt Burrows and Sgt Pearce negotiated Voyagers ruining P-Hr, fresh winds and clear skies to release eight RAF Falcons before flying back overhead as the Falcons saluted the Stn Cdr. The flypasts were well received by all, their timely manner and impeccable flying applauded by the adoring and well lubricated masses below. The crew then repositioned to the sports pitch and shut down allowing for a static display and [alcohol free] beers before the festival booted off into the evening.”

The Sqn has also enjoyed a busy and varied social and sporting schedule alongside work, and most people are taking full advantage of the opportunities and lifestyle that living in Cyprus offers. Chief amongst these is clearly water sports, with many of the aircrew taking up kitesurfing, sailing and snorkelling. Several members of the Sqn recently swam a nautical mile in the sea in the annual ‘Bay 2 Bay’ challenge – special mention must go to Cpl Claire Weston, an 84 Sqn survival equipment specialist, who won the ladies open category and came third overall. The Sqn also recently enjoyed a morning of Wakeboarding at the nearby Military Training Wing (MTW) water sports facility, although it is now apparent that many of the engineers require remedial balance training!

All in all, a busy but satisfying and successful start to Puma on 84 Sqn!

28 (AC) Squadron Moves (in the) Mountains

Flt Lt Matthew Curry

28 (AC) Squadron recently deployed to RAF Valley to conduct Ex Kukri Dawn 23-1. This included the Ops Phase for the trainees of LC62, which exposed them to the world of Support Helicopter tasking.

On Wednesday 15th of March, an advanced party of engineers and ops staff from 28 (AC) Squadron deployed to RAF Valley, followed on the 16th by Chinooks crewed by staff and students from LC62. The aircraft arrived in poor weather and were met by the engineering team who quickly and efficiently serviced the aircraft ready for the first day of deployed operations.

The following day the students completed a mountain flying sortie in Snowdonia. Mountain flying is a skill which combines many different flying disciplines including appreciation of wind, cloud, and terrain. Flying in such terrain fully embraces the crew concept, with pilots and crewmen

working together to operate the aircraft safely and efficiently.

The 10-day exercise scenario saw the trainees flying in support of troops at Sennybridge and Leek Training Areas. The realities of working with real world troops and agencies was experienced by the trainees, with weather, airspace and tasking changing at short notice. The scenario also saw them support tasks involving local Mountain Rescue Teams and Police and Fire Services. The trainees also got to experience Air Landed Arming Refuel Point (ALARP) refuelling from a Hercules aircraft.

Instructors from the Squadron also took the opportunity to carry out Fighter Evasion training against 1 Sqn Typhoons and Electronic Warfare training at RAF Spadeadam.

The week concluded with all elements returning to RAF Benson on Friday 24th of March, with the students from 62ChICC completing their end of course checks enroute.

A busy period for 1563 Flt in Brunei

Sgt Peel

It has been a busy few months for 1563 Flt in Brunei; new arrivals, new exercises, more training and plenty of flying. Over the last 3 months the Flt has supported the next iteration of the Jungle Warfare Instructors Course (JWIC) and the Operational Tracking Instructors Course (OTIC). On top of this providing support for other exercises including 40 Commando conducting their first Jungle Exercise in Brunei for more than 10 years.

Support for these courses has been provided in many forms including Heli abseil, thereby allowing insertion of troops into much deeper yet smaller holes in the jungle. This also enhanced learning and greater understanding of how aviation can provide assistance especially during the exercise phase of these courses. Additionally, troops have been moved via Puma which considerably shortens the time taken to transition from one area of the jungle to another. More importantly, at least to the guys on the ground, supplementary stores and equipment have been moved in, out and around the jungle quicker and with far less effort! This allows greater focus on training for the ground troops, and sometimes provides much-needed morale.

A critical element that the Puma has been offering to all courses and exercises is 24/7 MEDEVAC cover when required. This allows exercises and courses to cover more ground in the jungle whilst still retaining a safe and efficient level of medical cover, with quick access to medical care and hospital treatment. The 4 winch medics who had been detached to the Flt have returned to the UK, and passed on their skills to 3 new fledgling aces from Tac Med Wing at RAF Brize Norton. In the last month there has been an influx of new personnel, both rotational and residential, who need training in the ways of the

jungle. Therefore, alongside the support for exercises and courses, there has been much in the way of survival training both in the air and on the ground. This has included training for instructors, pilots, crewmen, engineers and winch medics. Jungle specific training is vital with differences between Brunei and the UK/ Cyprus becoming increasingly clear. UK training allows for much greater options in the event of an emergency and also for low level flying and recovery efforts. The jungle expanse however denies us those luxuries, being a hostile environment for miles on end. Our pilots are learning to recognise when to make timely

decisions to ensure the ultimate safety of the aircraft and crew, should any issues occur in flight. Although the Bruneian jungle is vibrant and exotic to look at, do so with cautious eyes! The flora and fauna within, from large Ghost Leopards to tiny mosquitoes, can bring your day dramatically to a halt. The lessons learnt by 1563 Flt, as well as the troops, is designed to specifically prepare and arm them with skills to combat all the hostilities found amongst the trees. Overall, it has been a brutally busy yet lively three months for 1563 Flt, and that is not likely to change anytime soon. Stay tuned for more!

606 Tiger Team and the Big Move

Sgt Jemma Holmes

Brunei, nestled on the northern coast of the island of Borneo, is known for its lush rainforests and rich cultural heritage. But probably less well-known for its UK military activity. In the north of the country lies the Bruneian Air Force Base Rimba, where 1563 Flt (later 230 Sqn) have been supporting jungle warfare training since arriving in 2022. When a change in strategic priorities necessitated the relocation to Medicina Lines in the south; a forward operating base offering improved accessibility and enhanced operational efficiency, the decision was made to enlist additional support.

In February 2023 the Reserve Support Request to assist in the relocation of Puma force assets was presented to 606Sqn at RAF Benson. No question, this was an opportunity not to be missed.

Sgt Richie Bull (MT), AS1 James Hawkins (MT), AS1 Neal Scott (Supply) and I (Supply) all jumped at the chance to deploy as a Tiger Team in support of JHC to this

unique location. With our civilian employers informed and Calling Notices in hand, we were now preparing for the mobilisation. This would be my 5th and first as a Substantive SNCO.

After a 17-hour flight, we arrived in Brunei, greeted by sweltering 36-degree temperatures and an 85% humidity level – warm was truly an understatement! Our initial week was dedicated to heat acclimatisation, vehicle procurement, and integrating ourselves within the squadron. At this time, I assumed the role of Project Lead, formulated a comprehensive plan and understood the priorities.

After assessing the spares and equipment that would remain essential to flying from Rimba we started loading our vehicles for the first wave of transfers. Sgt Richie Bull and AS1 James Hawkins ensured driver training was up to standard and route planning accounted for the extreme weather conditions we faced daily. AS1 Neal Scott

oversaw forklift contractors and with his previous Army service gave expert advice when it came to joint military taskings. Their specialist knowledge was essential in planning every vehicle load, and was optimised to meet the narrow transfer windows. Also attached to our Tiger Team was Ali, a Locally Employed Civilian whose MT support function would prove vital.

By the end of week 3, we had completed £3.3 million of stocktaking, loaded, moved, and unloaded 52 items of ground service equipment, 6 main rotor blades, 3 main rotor heads and 1 rhino wash. Not forgetting airport runs, postal runs, backloading C17 spares, container ordering and planning for a precarious aircraft transfer date. All the hard work wasn’t without its rewards though; Jungle trekking, Rampayoh Waterfall, the night markets and a canopy walk in Ulu Temburong National Park

provided amazing opportunities to experience Brunei up close.

As the journey unfolded, we steadily advanced towards our primary goal. The aircraft transfer date was confirmed, the low loaders were reserved, and cranes were poised for the transfer of essential equipment. The eagerly awaited day eventually dawned, and with it, another 50 items of ground support equipment, accompanied by office furniture, embarked on a 184-kilometre round trip – a feat that our team would repeat almost 100 times throughout the project's duration. After 5 weeks of hard work and just under 18,000km of driving between the Tiger Team and contractors, £7.5 million worth of equipment and 3 Puma helicopters had been successfully relocated to Medicina Lines with zero flying hours lost.

When I look back at our time in Brunei, I feel extremely proud of this monumental accomplishment. A testament to the unwavering dedication of Reserves personnel, who proved once again they can provide vital, effective, global support.

ZA937: RAF Benson Gate Guardian

Flt Lt Anna Peters

ZA937 first flew on 24 Oct 80 and was number 45 of a total of 57 Puma HC1s ordered by the Royal Air Force. The following 32 years saw operational service on Op BANNER in Northern Ireland, Op GRANBY in Saudi Arabia/Kuwait and Op TELIC in Iraq. ZA937 operated on 33 Squadron at RAF Odiham and RAF Benson, 1563 Flt in Belize and Iraq, 230 Squadron in RAF Aldergrove and RAF Benson, 72 Squadron in Aldergrove and finally with Puma Force at RAF Benson.

As the Puma Mk1 Out of Service Date was established and aircraft began to reach the end of their life, it was agreed that a Puma Gate Guardian would be a fitting tribute. ZA937 was selected for this role as it was in the best condition and had the best

& safest record. Once retired from the UK Military Aircraft Register (UK MAR) in December 2013, ZA937 was set aside and stored here at RAF Benson.

There have been several Project Officers assigned to the Gate Guardian Project over the years, but it had never gained traction until the past eight months. Using a Whole Force approach, the Benson Gate Guardian Team have finally turned an idea into a reality.

In March 2022, ZA937 received a fresh coat of paint in the Mk 1 RAF Identification Scheme, and an infrastructure contract was established in August. The challenge then became determining where and how to position ZA937 as the new Gate Guardian.

Due to anticipated longterm degradation of the tyres and undercarriage as seen on existing

Gate Guardians, keeping ZA937 on its wheels was considered unfeasible. It was therefore agreed that a support structure was required. Through regular communication between RAF Benson Puma Subject Matter Experts (SME's), the architect, and the fabricators, a suitable design was achieved which could safely support the Gate Guardian. A practice lift was carried out on 5 December 22 at RAF Benson. Before the final positioning date, this was the first opportunity to identify any potential issues and check that the aircraft would fit on its custom-designed support structure. After some adjustments to the aircraft ballast, everything went as planned.

Following confirmation that the support structure fit ZA937, it could be cemented in place. With it being the winter months, careful planning was required to

ensure the temperatures were suitable for the cement to set.

On 16 January 23, the Gate Guardian was finally positioned in place with help from the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron (JARTS), Terranova Mobile Crane Hire and a team from Puma 2 Maintenance Flight (P2MF). Lessons learnt from the practice lift were applied to enable a smooth positioning. The next weeks saw final touches made to the site, including the installation of lights and a commerative plaque. The Gate Guardian was revealed on 4 August 2023 by Air Marshal Richard Maddison, Deputy Chief of the Air Staff (DCAS).

Credit for a successful project must go to the Gate Guardian Team which include Vinci, Morsons, RAF Benson, RAF Heritage, Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and JARTS, who have all gone above and beyond to deliver ZA937. RAF Benson now has a Gate Guardian fitting of its long association with the Puma.

Proposed Site Plan.

Fresh Coat of Paint, 29 Mar 22.

1st Layer of Cement, 28 Nov 22.

Gate Guardian

Gate Guardian Lights Fitted, 27 Feb 23.

Gate Guardian Positioning, 16 Jan 23.

Support Structure in Place, 15 Dec 22.

Gate Guardian Team.

Gate Guardian Reveal, 4 Aug 23.

Gate Guardian Reveal, 4 Aug 23.

International Military Pilgrimage Lourdes 2023

AS1 Christian Bright

On the 11th of May 2023 Cpl Keefe, AS1(T) Hope & McRitchie, and myself (AS1 Bright), from RAF Benson C4I attended the yearly international pilgrimage to Lourdes, France to represent the wider Royal Air Force, JHC and RAF Benson.

The International Military Pilgrimage (IMP) is a unique occasion, where service personnel come together in uniform while participating in a series of national and international events over 3 days.  In a very real sense, they act as ambassadors for the Service and their country, engaging with senior political, military, and ecclesiastical figures from across the world.

Day 1 - Started out with the UK contingency marching to a penitential service, followed by taking part in a walking tour of the steps of Saint Bernadette, and

attending a military ceremony on a local esplanade. Later dressed in full No1 attire attending the Bishopric Opening Mass for the pilgrimage, with all members of the British contingent in attendance. After returning into Personal Clothing System (PCS) working dress, we arrived at the St Pius X Basilica, an enormous underground environment, where the opening ceremony for the event was played out. Split into factions of the attendees varying home nations, it comprised of every present nation’s band circling the central stage whilst

parading their nations flags, accompanied by cheering from the onlooking crowd. For those involved, it gave a real sense of being a part of something big, emitting a feeling of national pride and comradery.

Day 2 - Starting early the UK contingency marched from the hotel we were staying at in full No1 attire to take part in a catholic mass ceremony, situated below an enormous chapel, a venue central to the event. We were joined by the national contingents of USA, Ireland, Canada, and Norway for the morning service followed by a late hotel breakfast. Later, back in working dress we attended the stations of the cross, spread across a small rocky hillside, giant statues depicted fifteen stages of Jesus’s condemnation and return from the afterlife, each conveying a separate message intended for

personal reflection. The period between lunch and late evening was filled with voluntary activities such as sports challenges, varying bands performing in a festival of music across the town and religious ceremonies. As the evening approached, the torchlight procession began, with every participating military attendee receiving a candle and parading across the esplanade surrounding the chapel, lit only by

the tens of thousands of candles in the hands of those walking. Throughout the procession hymns and prayers are sung in varying languages which then culminates in every participant surrounding the chapel, witnessing another ceremony, and dispersing shortly after.

Day 3 – We had a delayed start, attending Sunday mass and then later at the Basilica of St Pius X for the closing ceremony, a similar event to the opening ceremony, however showcasing varying members of each nation’s forces chosen to place blocks together, slowly forming the shape of a chapel and showcasing a symbol of togetherness. AS1(T) Hope and I marched with a large candle adorned with the RAF crest across our shoulders from the start of the day, parading it to each of the day’s events. Subsequently carrying the candle in procession to be lit and burn in memory of the past day’s events, the lives lost both home and abroad for both serving and veterans alike, and the reflections we have all had.

Each evening comprising of hours of socialising in the streets with other nations, dancing to each other’s bands, and representing the United Kingdom and the Royal Air Force.

On 14 June, RAF Benson hosted an event to inspire young women from local schools with the theme of “If you can see it, then you can be it”.

The aim of the event was to inspire young women to believe that they can pursue careers in any field and through resilience and determination, they can achieve huge physical goals and overcome mental challenges. In sum, through role modelling, this was an opportunity to “see who they could be”. In parallel, it demonstrated the career opportunities available in the RAF and STEM roles in the civilian sector.

200 schoolgirls from local schools in Oxfordshire and Berkshire attended the event. One of the schoolgirls said, “It’s lifted me up, I feel strong”, another said “Women can do anything men can do”. Helen Richardson, a teacher from Icknield Community College said, “The array of opportunities you showed to the girls was truly fabulous and literally has turned some of the girls heads to think of new career pathways that they either thought were beyond them or didn’t even know existed.”

Organised by RAF Benson, the day started with a large group presentation which then broke down the young women into smaller groups to speak to over 20 inspirational speakers. These speakers varied from military, reservist, veteran and civilian backgrounds. This included adventurers, pilots, surgeons, international sportswomen, emergency services, engineers, a trainee astronaut, lawyers,

crisis planners, detectives, firefighters plus others. A highlight of the day was a live dial-in to an all-female team currently rowing around Great Britain. Led by former RAF Squadron Leader, Emma Wolstenholme, the schoolgirls were able to talk directly to the inspirational team in the boat about overcoming failure.

Another of the speakers was Wing Commander Elle, a Former Tornado Pilot. She said “I absolutely wish I had been engaged like this when I was younger. I might not have realised how important it was at the time, but when I was their age my careers advisor said the military wasn’t for women”. Of course, now all RAF professions are open to women.

Thank you to everyone from RAF Benson that contributed their time to support the event and make it a reality. Without doubt, the young women and their teachers went away with a very positive experience from engaging with role models, and everyone felt hugely uplifted with the positive energy and collective efforts of everyone involved. Never underestimate the power of what people see at a young age. We inspired them to be curious, not to close any doors and instead see what they can be.

"See What You Can Be" Day

“helped me realise that I want to work in the military”

“you can do anything you put your mind to – no matter what!”

“I felt so inspired and like I can take on anything –I will always be grateful”

“fun, interactive and inspiring”

RAF Benson v Wallingford Hockey Match

Sgt John Arnott

On Wednesday night of 24th May 23 we had a good turn out from RAF Benson to play Wallingford Hockey Team, in our first mixed competition outside of playing in the Eastern Counties Services Hockey League. It was good to see the new strip out on the hockey pitch taking the colours from Photographic Reconnaissance (PR) Units that were based at RAF Benson in WWII as its inspiration. The weather was stunning for the evening, and we pushed back at 6pm with the sun slowly setting over Wallingford. RAF Benson started the game with 2 players off the pitch, due to unforeseen circumstances – kit before you leave, Ryan? That being said Benson pushed the opposition hard and we created some good opportunities to penetrate the Wallingford ‘D’, unfortunately without a result, being denied by the good efforts of the Wallingford goalkeeper (a constant theme throughout the evening). Wallingford then countered and played the ball down through our stretched defence and with the ball running close to the dead ball line managed to (somehow) keep it on the field of play and brought it back in to slip the ball past our keeper. 0:1.

After 10 min we were back up to the full 11, while

we rearranged positions, Wallingford took a rare opportunity and with some confusion of players to get the ball into the net again 0:2. We then settled down and started playing again rewarded with the majority of the possession, with good movement on and off the ball, communication and passing we were on the up for the remainder of the half. Disappointingly with no result on the board to show all the effort.

After a short break for half time getting some water on board and a team chat, play started again. From the off we were on the ball chasing those goals, throughout the half we again were the more dominant side retaining possession for

most of the time. Whenever Wallingford tried to break down our left hand side “Tinks” was there holding the left and taking the ball from Wallingford every time, outstanding!

We had yet another opportunity late in the half, from a free hit just outside the ‘D’ the ball was passed to Ivan Lymar, who took it into the ‘D’ and struck, finally the ball was in the back of the net at last beating the Wallingford goalkeeper.

1:2. The last play of game was a long corner awarded to Benson, the ball was played out and Jess Bailey made a good strike towards the goal when the ball hit a defenders foot, another short corner was awarded, the ball came out towards jess, she took it back into the ‘D’ shot and it was deflected out by a defender, end of the game…. 1:2

Player of the evening for RAF Benson out of an outstanding list was Jess Bailey, well done!

It was a good competitive game and invaluable match time for those players who are new to the sport this year. It has also been invaluable practise for the upcoming inter stations being held at RAF Halton 8/9th June, where we hope to come back with a better result.

Thanks to Wallingford Hockey Club for making it an enjoyable evening. We are all looking forward to the return leg against Wallingford. This time we will start with a full Team, be warned!!

For more pictures of the evening and of RAF Hockey in general please do go to the RAF Hockey Association Instagram feed.

If you’ve read this and it has made you interested in finding out more about the sport and want to give hockey a try, please see:

Sgt J Arnott  john. arnott236@mod.gov.uk

Sgt Danny Lee danny. lee663@mod.gov.uk

Pictures from the game, courtesy of Sgt Danny Lee

RAF

On the road again...

FS Alan Sharp

Asking for a friend, “Are your sporting dreams or challenges unachievable once you get old?”

Actually, I ask as at the age of 51 I have decided to return to a highly intense sport, one that I’ve loved to watch, a sport that I have given a lot back to over the years via instructing newbies and a sport that to be honest at times scares the bejesus out of me… motorcycle circuit racing.

Where did it start?

At the tender age of eleven my first introduction to a motorcycle was on a small Yamaha TY80 trials bike. Sat aboard it I revved the engine, dropped the clutch, this sent the front wheel skywards which ultimately then made me roll the throttle harder and I drove through a neighbour’s panel fence landing up in their greenhouse, an innocuous start. Unfortunately, it did not get much better from there on, aged sixteen my first road bike, a 12bhp 50cc which I bought 2 days after my 16th birthday (in a cold and very frosty, October) that first morning and I and the bike were sliding down the road, heading for trouble. I tried my hand at doing some motocross, which

was way too painful for me, so I went back to smooth tarmac. A spate of 125cc bikes followed and surprisingly I remained unscathed.

At 19 I bought my first big sports bike, that swiftly ended up as a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle with me lying on a hospital bed with a potential broken neck, luckily this time it was just some bruising, followed by a few more bruises from my girlfriend (now wife). After that I stepped away from bikes for a few years. But the draw was too strong to ignore so I purchased a Suzuki GSXR 750R road legal race bike. It was the sports bike to have, a crazy bike; I was stupidly riding like an idiot; I was either going kill myself or worse still some poor innocent road user. So, I needed a safe outlet for my Adrenaline fuelled activities so in Jan 2000 I bought a track bike. It was only a little 250cc, but I was making riders on bigger bikes look daft! OK I’m never going to be Valentino Rossi, but I could keep up with some seasoned riders aboard their bigger bikes so thought ok let’s see what you can do. A 600cc soon followed and subsequent updated bikes, some offs but I started to be a “safe/fast” rider, now I needed to understand, what am I able to achieve?

Airfield Riders Days (ARDs) ARDs, what is that all about?

Roll on to 2007 and RAF Benson decided to run an ARD. Looking in from the outside many think it’s just an excuse for riders to go mad, make lots of noise and generally annoy the locals.

It could not be further from the truth (ok the neighbours do sometimes get upset). ARDs were introduced at a number of Units to offer Military, MOD and civilian riders the opportunity to learn what they and their bikes can do in a controlled environment. These days are all run under the RAF’s road safety banner and came about because the RAF were losing personnel following their return from deployments, they would jump on their bikes and sadly end up as a road accident statistic. People looked at this and thought we have some big open spaces that aren’t being used at the weekends, we have some experienced riders who can pass on some handy tips that would help riders to understand what they should do if they run into a corner too fast, or need to brake really heavily, and so the ARDs came about. During an event I was lucky to be noticed by the RAF Odiham instructors and they asked me to join their team. Over the years I’ve helped hundreds of riders of all abilities and hope that some of my advice may have helped prevent someone avoid being a bonnet ornament on a car.

No Budget!

2010 and RAF Benson had used some of the profits from the ARDS to purchase a pre-2000 Kawasaki 750cc race bike (a significant amount is also given to charities, to date circa £20K). The intention was a small team would enter the “Fast Bikes sponsored No Budget Cup Endurance race series,” it would initially take place in the UK with two rounds taking place at Anglesey and Cadwell Park.

If it all went well the event would grow as it had done in Belgium. Round one, I and three others rode at a very wet Anglesey (it always rains in Wales) split the 6hrs of riding between us and we managed to finish 6th in class. At Cadwell Park a few weeks later just two of us rode but this time we finished 3rd overall and a trophy was awarded, one I have kept, it meant a lot. That was my last race, I thought I was done!?

51 and back at it

Mid 2022 at one of the RAF Odiham events a fellow instructor Lee, came up to me and asked me if I had thought about getting back in the saddle and returning to endurance racing? He noticed that I was consistent on a bike which is key in endurance racing, “to finish first, first you have to finish!”

Expressing regret that it was beyond me financially but I would of course loved to have had the chance again, he then dropped the bomb shell... he was putting a team together that would be running a pair of 2022 Triumph 765’s prepared by Peter Hickman Racing (the fastest man around the isle of Man TT) under the banner of the “UK Defence Networks (DN) Racing (1)” and asked me if would I like to ride at some of the rounds? I underlined I had limited funds, his response, its “Free!” Sign me up, I’ll have some of that. Alongside the endurance, as I am already at the circuit, I also now get the chance to use my own race bike to compete in the “Cup 1000cc” and alongside the RAF Motorsports Association (RAFMSA) Racers to race in the “Military Inter Service Championship” race.

In early April I completed my final test day at a very wet Mallory Park, and all went well. A few sideways scares but I stayed aboard my steed. Now it was time to get serious and I entered Round 2 of the No Limits race series. At this round I was not needed to ride with the UKDN endurance team so I entered both the Cup 1000 and the Military races to see how high or low I could set the bar?

The big weekend

Arriving at Cadwell Park circuit, Near Louth, a place I had ridden and instructed at many times, I tingled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was a metropolis of awnings and caravans with the sprinkle of big team infrastructure. So, after 13 years away had a paddock changed all that much, and the thing I feared, would I embarrass myself? Well yes, almost immediately, firstly when you go to sign on to race make sure your renewed Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) licence had been updated and isn’t showing to be out of date since 2016. A quick late Friday afternoon call to the ACU and all was well. I was in and due to race in the Genuine Yamaha Technology Racing (GYTR) Pro Shop Cup 1000 and the UK Armed Forces interservice Race (or so I thought)

I met up with the RAF team and took my riding kit and race prepared bike to scrutineering to get the all-important stamps and then start to think about Saturdays qualify and earn my position on the grid. We woke to a damp track and were out at 0915 for a mad 12 mins to gain a grid spot. Many had done the test day on the Friday, I hadn’t, and it took me a while to get up to speed. My slightly disappointing 1:45 secured 25th out of 36 but I was on the grid!

At 1130 the Endurance teams were out, including the UKDN team. 10 minutes in and there was a Red flag, it was Lee from the UKDN Racing team. The bike was a bit second hand; Lee was ok but was later signed off for the weekend from racing due to being knock unconscious (more of this later).

1205 and I was sat on the gid amongst 36 1000cc bikes, dry mouth, eyes like dinner plates,

heart rate easily at 160bpm. Red light on, then off, GO GO GO *in a Murry Walker voice* I got a storming start passing a number of bikes before the 100mph turn 1. The race went well, I however was holding on too tight to the bars and my forearms were tightening, a Rookie mistake. I had some good battles and came home in a respectable 25th with a better lap time of 1:43.257.

Are you fit?

During the race Ian the other rider from the UKDN team had made his way to the RAFMSA gazebo and was waiting with a question? He was now a lone rider in a 3-hour race and asked me and an Army rider “Spencer” to ride. This was a great opportunity, one slight issue, I had only ridden the bike for about 10 minutes so it would be a steep learning curve. The 3-hour endurance race involved 38 bikes, all different types and CC’s ranging from 650 twins to full on factory Superbikes. The Lap times ranged from 1:29.5’s to 1:49’s so during the race you have to be aware of the closing speeds.

The team were one of only two teams to run a single bike, other teams just pulled into the pits and swapped the timing transponder across. We would need to refuel as well; we lose out a lot in the pits, but we only do one change per hour, though still at a disadvantage. I was to ride the 3rd 1hr stint, so had to wait.

The start is as per all endurance starts, a run across the track, jump aboard and then the race is on. Ian rode first with consistent times, which is what endurance racing is all about (to finish first, first you have to finish!), Spence then took over, A national licence holder and races a Triumph 765 during other events he was soon up to speed. 1:38’ as a fastest lap and we were going well. The final hour, fuel in, I jumped on went to start the bike, pressed the wrong button, and switched the ECU off! DOH! 3 seconds later, bike was running, and I exited pits for my 1 hr. 1:46’s for 3 laps then I started to gel with this beautifully put together bike. I started to run consistent 1:43’s and managed a 141:2, faster on this bike than on my 1000cc! I brought it home and

we finished 9th in class. We later found out that Spences “National Licence “had put us into the class above. If we had remained in the “Clubman” class, it would have been 3rd. A very positive result and bodes well for Donnington! Wetter than an otter’s pocket Saturday night I was certainly feeling my age, I ached everywhere. It rained all night, and we woke Sunday morning to horrendous conditions. At 0900 the Military qualifications started and, yes it was still raining. Exiting the pits, the track resembled more a river than a road. Conditions were treacherous and Paul Cunvin one of the RAFMSA top riders high sided in front of me, that was a real confidence booster, NOT! I manged to put 3 laps in before a red flag due to a rider falling. I had qualified 7th which was brilliant. Paul would start at the back of the grid. Gazing out of the gazebo I decided the risk of racing wasn’t worth starting the Cup 1000 races, I was sore, cold and would save myself for the Military race. My goal is to ride the endurances events, the sprints this time were just a bonus. 1430 and again I was sat on the grid, calmer this time and pumped up ready for this one. Red light off and the 8 lap race fired into action, I got a flyer, dropping into 4th at turn one and the race was on. The front 3 started to pull away and I was leading a small pack behind. By lap 4 Paul who had started dead last tipped into “Charlies One” at the end of park straight. I held

on to his tail unit for as long as I could or dared. I was now 5th but I was relaxed and going strong. Last lap and coming into the same point where Paul had passed and a Navy rider showed me a wheel to come up the inside, this time I closed the door. 8 corners to go and we came up to a back maker at the top of the goose neck, as I came to pass into “Mansfield’s“ a steep hard breaking point I selected a wrong gear and I lost all drive out, the Navy rider took my position. At the next chicane he rang wide, we drag raced to the bottom of the mountain section I showed a wheel, this time it was he who shut the door. From there Cadwells “Hall bends” is near impossible to pass, I tried to out drag him coming out of “Barn” but he pipped me to the line. I had finished 6th, gaining valuable points of the Inter Service Championship. Oh, Paul secured a hard-fought 3rd! impressive from the back of the grid. Leaving Round 2 the RAF lead the Army by 17 points.

So to answer my own question” Are your sporting dreams or challenges unachievable once you get old?” the answer to this is: Absolutely not!

HIVE

HIVE

Bridges is situated between in the Community Centre where a warm welcome awaits you.

The RAF Benson HIVE Service supports the Chain of Command and tri-Service community through the provision of up to date and relevant information.

RAF HIVE Information Officer can provide an extensive range of information on relocation, local facilities, schools and further education, housing, healthcare facilities, employment and training

COMMUNITY SUPPORT TEAM

Community Support Officer

Meg Wickett

BEN-BSW-CDO@mod.gov.uk

Station Community Support Officer

WO Phil Withey

BEN-BSW-SCSO@mod.gov.uk

Padre 1

Rev (Sqn Ldr) Paul Stephens paul.stephens104@mod.gov.uk

Chaplaincy Clk

Mrs Sharon Waters sharon.waters934@mod.gov.uk

Stn Youth Worker

Hannah Wilson Hannah.Wilson@oneymca.org

Personal and Family Support Worker

Deborah Wise Deborah.wise@ssafa.org.uk

Personal and Family Support Worker

Faye Grant Faye.grant@ssafa.org.uk

Welfare Administrator

Kathy Porat

Kathy.porat@ssafa.org.uk

opportunities. Information on future relocations is one of the key areas of information support and is available either in advance or on arrival at the receiving unit. RAF HIVE staff are also involved in providing Operational deployment support, including distributing deployment support resources.

If you would like to contact me, please email BEN-BSW-HIO@ mod.gov.uk or call 01491 827213.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

WEEKLY PLANNER

Stn Church Morning Prayer every Mon – Fri 0830 – 0900, every Thursday Catalyst Christian Bible Group from 1800 – 1930.

For more information email: BEN-BSW-Chaplaincy@ mod.gov.uk

Social Work Team Lead

Amy Suttling Amy.suttling@ssafa.org.uk

Social Work Regional Manager

Joanne Harper Joanne.harper@ssafa.org.uk

WELCOME TO RAF BENSON GATHERING

Are you newly arrived into station and want to meet the Station Community Support Team? Why not pop along to the Common Room, right hand side of the Shuttleworth Mess for a free coffee and followed by a windscreen tour of the Station. Open to everyone.

The Community Support Team will be there every 1st Wednesday of every month from 1000 – 1130.

We look forward to meeting you all soon.

PLAYGROUPS

Little Cherubs

Structured Playgroup

Sessions run every Monday and Thursday morning from 0930 – 1130 in the Soft Play Area, Community Centre.

Oxfordshire Play Association

Sessions run every Tuesday 1000 -1200 in the Soft Play Area, Community Centre and Saturdads runs every other Saturday.

For more information email: BEN-BSW-HIO@mod.gov.uk

AIRPLAY GROUPS

Ben Club

Session run every Tuesday from 1615 – 1730 for children aged 5 – 8 years.

Inters Youth Club

Session runs every Tuesday 1800 – 2000 for children aged 12+

Airplay Juniors

Session runs every Wednesday from 1630 – 1800 for children aged 8 – 10 years.

Airplay Forum

Session runs every Wednesday from 1830 – 1930.

For more information regarding these groups, email: Hannah.Wilson@oneymca.org

SCOUTING GROUPS

Cubs

Group runs every Monday from 1830 -2000 for children aged 8 – 10.5 years.

Beavers

Group runs every Tuesday from 1800 – 1930 for children aged 6 – 8 years.

Scouts

Group runs every Wednesday from 1830 – 2030 for children aged 10.5 – 14 years.

Explorers

Group runs every Friday from 1900 – 2100 for children aged 14 – 18 years.

For more information about scouting, email: Raf-benson@ thameschilternscouts.org.uk

WEEKLY CLINICS

Mortgage Advice Clinic

Appointments held fortnightly on Thursdays with representatives of Lexion Financial Services.

Solicitor Clinic

Appointments held every alternate Wednesdays with Richard Rodway from the Head Partnership in Henley.

To book an appointment, please contact the HIVE Information Officer on Ext 7213 or email: BEN-BSW-HIO@mod.gov.uk

GIRLGUIDING GROUPS

Rainbows – 1700 – 1815

Brownies – 1800 – 1930

Guides – 1800 – 1930 Groups runs every Thursday.

For more details email: yvetteandduncan@btinternet.com

THRIFT SHOP

Monday – 0930 – 1130

Tuesday 0830 – 1030

Wednesday 0930 – 1130

First Saturday of every month – 1000 – 12-00

For more information email: Simon.Bird869@mod.gov.uk

Ceramics Club

Monday 1830 – 20.30, email: Jennifer.brown323@mod.gov.uk

Oxfordshire Mind

Tuesday 0830 – 1630 email: RAFBENSON@ oxfordshiremind.org.uk

BROGA

Tuesday - 1200 – 1300, Bookings through the Myzone App via the gym.

Military Wives Choir

Wednesday 1900 – 2045 Held in the church benson@militarywiveschoir.org

– The HIVE Information Officer, Mrs Janine Ansty-

Top five tips to improve your

MENTAL WELLBEING

The daily pressures and uncertainty of military life can, for many, cause anxiety and lead to feeling overwhelmed. According to the Ministry of Defence’s Annual Mental Health Report, 1 in 8 (12.5%) UK armed forces personnel were seen by military healthcare services for a mental health related reason in 2021/22, with women seeking help more than men.

Our mental health can often take a backseat amidst the hustle and bustle of our day-to-day, but understanding and prioritising your mental wellbeing is vital to leading a fulfilled and balanced life. The RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity, offers a variety of services to support members of the RAF Family experiencing difficulties, from low mood and stress to loneliness and isolation.

The Fund has put together five top tips to keep your mental health in check and ensure you are taking care of yourself daily:

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness trains your brain to pay more attention to the present moment and helps you cope better with life's stresses. 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.

The RAF Benevolent Fund provides a free subscription to the Headspace app for all serving RAF personnel. Headspace is a useful digital tool which helps with practising mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress, anxiety, and aid better sleep. Research has shown that participants begin to experience the benefits of mindfulness after using it for just ten minutes a day for ten days.

Access counselling services

Counselling provides a safe and nurturing environment that allows individuals the time and space to delve into their problems, unravel complexities, and explore potential solutions. The presence of a confidential and impartial ear allows the person to express themselves freely without fear of judgement. The process of working through negative thoughts and emotions can be empowering, helping to gain insight into our own resilience and emotional wellbeing.

Counselling provides a vital avenue for RAF personnel to seek help and support in dealing with the challenges and stresses they may face in their roles and personal lives. Whether it be work-related issues, family concerns, emotional struggles, or any other difficulties, counselling offers a safe and confidential to work through any problems, gain new perspectives, and develop coping strategies.

Attend online wellbeing workshops and webinars

The partners of RAF personnel face many challenges, from dealing with deployments and frequent moves to balancing family life and the military. The Fund has put together a new initiative called Thrive which aims to improve overall wellbeing and emotional resilience for the partners of those serving in the RAF.

A range of free online

Thrive workshops and webinars are available for partners of RAF personnel throughout the year and are led by qualified coaches who themselves have served or are partners of those serving in the military. This personalised approach to support helps to encourage open discussion about the various challenges faced, from understanding work-life balance in the military to support for relationships during the festive period. These sessions uncover tools to monitor and create worklife balance and explore strategies and techniques for managing any frustration and arguments better at home. The webinars will delve into the intricacies of communication and decision-making examining their impact on mental well-being.

The overall goal of the series is to help better manage mental health specifically focusing on anxiety.

Look after your physical health

Looking after physical health is immensely beneficial for mental wellbeing because of the close relationship between the body and mind. Regular exercise releases endorphins which are natural mood lifters and help to reduce stress and anxiety. Engaging in physical activity also promotes better sleep patterns, le ading to improved mental clarity and emotional resilience. A balanced and nutritious diet also contributes to good physical health, nourishing the body to support cognitive function and emotional stability.

Taking care of physical health fosters a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem, which can enhance overall mental wellness. Additionally, maintaining good

and routines of daily life. Holidays offer a chance to disconnect from work and responsibilities, allowing individuals to unwind and recharge mentally. A break from the usual demands can reduce feelings of burnout and restore a sense of balance in life. Being in a new environment can stimulate the mind and foster creativity, as exposure to a change of scenery and new experiences can help spark a fresh outlook on life.

The RAF Benevolent Fund has been providing subsidised breaks for serving families for several years. There are a selection of wellbeing breaks available for those experiencing pressures or challenges and who could benefit from a break away. As part of a new partnership with Parkdean Resorts this year, the Fund is now able to jointly offer an expanded range of breaks across a wider number of locations countrywide.

physical health can alleviate symptoms of depression and promote a positive outlook on life. Ultimately, a healthy body paves the way for a healthy mind, creating a powerful synergy that positively impacts our overall quality of life.

Take a short break away

Taking a short break away can have significant mental health benefits, providing a muchneeded respite from the stresses

The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund is the RAF’s leading welfare charity. It exists to support current and former members of the RAF, their partners and dependants, whenever it is needed. For more information visit: www.rafbf.org.

For kids aged 4.5 and over

One-to-One

‘learn to cycle’ sessions with a secret ingredient that gets children cycling confidently in under an hour!

Witney-local brings cuttingedge learn to cycle training to Oxfordshire kids.

Andy Harris a Witney local for 17 years is bringing Fox Cycling across Oxfordshire. “Over a third of UK primary school aged children can’t ride a bike” and Fox Cycling are the only company offering a complete solution. This is as step-by-step tried and tested method of teaching kids to confidently learn to cycle in super quick time – and not a stabilizer anywhere in sight.

Over the past decade, Fox Cycling have developed a ‘learn to cycle’ teaching method with a secret ingredient that gets most children cycling in under an hour. Fox Cycling have honed every aspect of their CycleKids one-to-one session, ensuring that your child enjoys a fun and stress-free experience that gets them confidently cycling.

For the little ones who are not yet pedal-ready, Fox Cycling offer funfilled, balance-bike CycleTots classes that help children develop the physical and cognitive foundation necessary for pedalling, as well as inspiring them to love cycling!

“We believe learning to cycle is of huge benefit to children and can be a wonderful family activity, getting away from screens and having fun together outside.” Using a proprietary teaching method that quickly overcomes the common challenges children face when learning to ride, Fox Cycling are keen to champion hassle free, fun learn to cycle training. The Fox Cycling model also includes CycleTots taster sessions, a clear step-by-step process through fun ‘CycleTots sticker based learning journeys’ using balance bikes.

Look out for our adverts and social media posts and book your sessions now as spaces are filling up nicely!

721241

891073

Lower Farm is about 9

south of Oxford, in the Thames Valley and its within easy reach of a large network of bridle paths, including easy access to the Ridgeway

Hacks, Hunters, Ponies, Competition Horses and Hobby Horses, Ridden, driven or retired – we can accommodate them all.

TAKE COMMAND OF YOUR CAREER

You don’t have to be a civilian to gain civilian qualifications. With more than 200 qualifications and 400 modules to choose from, and the flexibility to study from anywhere in the world, the OU can improve your knowledge, progress your career and fill your downtime.

What’s stopping you?

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR CAREER: OPENUNIVERSITY.CO.UK/EASYRESETTLEMENT