Wittering View
The official magazine of RAF Wittering
Lance media Group Ltd
Editor
to the Autumn 2024 edition of Wittering View
Ask anyone how things are, and the most common response will be ‘busy’! It certainly seems to be the word I hear most often, and the variety of articles in this issue certainly demonstrate it.
The Golden Lion has reopened its doors after an extensive refurbishment. It promises to be a vibrant hub for events and activities on Station and the Junior Ranks Committee has lots of plans to turn it into a gathering spot for all. Check out the transformation on page 6.
The return of the bus service to the village has been welcomed news. Local artist John Elson has creatively put RAF Wittering on the map with a special artwork showing the new route. Check it out on page 21.
Auxilium Fort 2024 saw over 300 personnel from across the Global Enablement Force participating in the Support Force led exercise. Read the full report on page 14. Meanwhile the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron (JARTS) has returned historic aircraft to the Falklands (page 10).
Health and wellbeing remain crucial, and our recent Health and Wellbeing Day (page 18) provided the perfect occasion to share valuable advice and tips for selfcare. It also meant a very welcomed appearance by the BFBS Ice Cream van which is always guarantee to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Finally, I am delighted to welcome Squadron Leader Sandy Ingamells and Flying Officer Tori Smith to the Wittering View Editorial team. If you would like to submit an article for the next edition please email WITGMBWittView@mod.gov.uk.
Emma Stacey
Media, Engagement & Communications Officer
Foreword
In today's fast-paced world, we find ourselves constantly juggling the overflowing inboxes, lengthy to-do lists, and calendars filled with seemingly endless appointments and meetings.
While our work is undoubtedly important, we must not lose sight of an equally crucial aspect of our lives: our health and mental wellbeing.
The need to prioritise our wellbeing has never been more pressing. We only need to turn on the TV, or radio, listen and witness the many challenges and stressors facing our global community. Considering this, it is heartening to see the various groups and personnel at RAF Wittering dedicated to supporting our collective wellness. From our amazing Welfare and Community
Wittering View
Support teams to the Health and Wellbeing Committee, plus the many sports clubs and activities. We are lucky, it might not feel it at times, but we are, as we do have a robust network of committed and capable individuals, on Station, who are designed to help us take care of ourselves.
Taking time to engage in activities that allow us the time to relax and disconnect from the daily grind is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Here at the RAF Wittering, we recognise the importance of balancing work and relaxation. Our recent Health and Wellbeing day showcased a variety of benefits, from fitness tips to healthy eating
advice. The reopening of the newly refurbished Golden Lion Pub is another step towards creating spaces where we can unwind and foster connections with friends and colleagues in a relaxed setting.
As we navigate our busy lives, let's remember that taking care of our health and wellbeing is not selfish — it's essential. By prioritising our physical and mental health, we not only improve our own lives but also become better equipped to support others, whether that’s as a SSAFA volunteer, helping Station with the plethora of events, or being able to support, mentor and guide colleagues, which will enable them to succeed with the task at hand.
Let's continue to work hard, but also take time to breathe, relax, and enjoy the company of those around us. After all, a healthy, balanced life is the foundation for both personal happiness and professional success – and I am sure, we all want some of that!
Wg Cdr Nikki Duncan Station Commander
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Wg Cdr Nikki Duncan chats with personnel at the recent opening RAF Wittering’s Golden Lion Pub.
Refurbished Golden Lion
Unveiled
The new look Golden Lion Pub has been officially reopened.
The unveiling marked the culmination of a challenging but rewarding renovation project and the facility promises to be a hub for junior ranks and station personnel alike.
Station Commander Wing Commander Nikki Duncan handed over the ribbon-cutting honours to Cpl Glenn Dutton of the Junior Ranks Committee which played a significant role in the project.
The Golden Lion Pub has a contemporary look with a new bar area and furniture, a pool table and televisions, and has a new look bar area, Following the ‘ceremony’, guests were treated to complimentary drinks courtesy of SACX and nibbles were
provided by ESS. The Junior Ranks Committee organised an evening of entertainment, including a barbecue, live music, and more. The night concluded with a viewing of a Euros Cup semi-final match which saw England go through to the finals.
The project was overseen by OC Infrastructure, Plans and Requirements Flt Lt Dean McAulay.
He said: “It has been an absolute honour to manage this project and work closely with our industry partners VIVO and sub-contractors SACX. They have delivered an outstanding facility for our people. This project has allowed me to engage more
deeply with our junior cadre and understand their needs. I believe we have achieved their vision and more.”
Flt Lt McAulay also expressed gratitude to the project's sponsors, including the Nuffield Trust, RAF Benevolent Fund and Junior Ranks Fund. Special thanks were extended to SACX for their adaptability and to VIVO Project
Manager Dave Lichfield for his guidance and support.
Station Commander Wg Cdr Nikki Duncan said: “The renovation of the Golden Lion is a significant investment in the welfare and morale of station personnel at RAF Wittering, providing a modern and welcoming space for relaxation and community building.”
The opening of the refurbished Golden Lion Pub.
The new sign for the Golden Lion Pub.
RAF Wittering
Boxing Show
In a spectacular display of skill, strength, and sportsmanship, the RAF Wittering boxing show captivated audiences with eight electrifying bouts. The event featured fighters from the RAF, British Army, and civilian clubs, showcasing a diverse range of talent and fighting styles.
The evening began with a closely contested match between debutants AS1 Molly Taylor (RAF Wittering) and Signy Sigurdardottir (Attleborough ABC), with Sigurdardottir claiming victory. AS1(T) Jack Andrew (RAF Coningsby) secured a unanimous decision win against Callum Timbrell (Bambury Boxing Club) in the second bout.
The RAF vs. British Army clash saw AR Chris Dale (RAF Shawbury) triumph over LCpl McClure (3 AAC REME) in a dynamic encounter. Cpl Joe Gartland (RAF Wittering) demonstrated relentless offense to defeat Bilaal Yaqub (Bambury Boxing Club) in the bantamweight division.
After the interval, AS1 Alex Masterman (RAF Coningsby) showcased exceptional skill to overcome Aiden Gant (Attleborough ABC) in the welterweight category. AS1 Sam Hall (RAF Coningsby) secured victory against James Downes (Attleborough ABC) with precise counters and well-timed combinations.
In an inter-RAF lightweight bout, AS1 Adam Davidson (RAF Wittering) emerged victorious over AS1 Nick Sanderson (RAF Leeming). The evening concluded with a light heavyweight clash between AR Robbie Coutts (RAF Shawbury) and AS1 Callum Bingham (RAF Waddington), with Coutts claiming a unanimous decision win.
The prestigious Best Boxer award was presented to AS1 Alex Masterman (RAF Coningsby) for his exceptional performance and sportsmanship.
The event's success highlighted the high calibre of boxing talent within the RAF and partnering organisations, leaving spectators eagerly anticipating future competitions.
News In Brief
Catering Apprenticeship Completion
AS1 Thorne and AS1 Thomas were presented their awards by Sgt Monaghan and Sqn Ldr Cope.
This finalises their Catering apprenticeship from Food Services Training Wing (Air) and this achievement gains them the civilian competency of a ‘Production Chef’. A well-earned congratulations and round of applause for both Chefs.
Sunny Days
In complete contrast to the wet weather conditions Station personnel faced at RAF Wittering’s last Wellness Walk, the sun was out in full force!
The group of personnel, along with a few families, enjoyed a
walk around the village which took in the War Memorial at All Saints’ Church.
The Wellness Walk, which is organised every month by the Station’s People Engagement Champions, is open to the whole force. Its aim is to help reduce stress and improve moods.
Spinathon Success
AS1 De Cono from 1 Expeditionary Logistics Squadron’s Charity Committee organised a ‘spinathon’ at the RAF Wittering Station Gym. For the event, five teams from the Supply and MT Squadron set out to ride as many kilometres as they could in an hour on the Station spin bikes. As a collective they raised over £80 for The Veterans Charity, The Darby Rimmer MND and MS Society.
Armed Forces Day Parade
Residents lined the streets of Leicester as Station personnel from RAF Wittering marched through the city to mark Armed Forces Day.
Organised in conjunction with Leicester City Council, the parade was a commemoration and celebration of the city’s links with the Armed Forces.
Personnel from Wittering marched along a route from the city centre’s High Street to Jubilee Square, accompanied by the Pipes and Drums of the Seaforth Highlanders.
RAF Wittering Station Commander, Wing Commander Nikki Duncan and the Station Warrant Officer, WO Darren Rose attended by the event.
Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday each June. It is a day when people can show their support for the personnel who make up the Armed Forces community; from currently serving troops to service families, veterans, and cadets.
RAF Wittering personnel took part in a parade in Leicester to mark Armed Forces Day.
AS1 Thorne
AS1 Thomas
D-Day Remembered
Station personnel and Wittering residents attended a special service to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
The outside service, which was held at Wittering All Saints Church, was conducted by Rev Gary Alderson. A selection of readings about D-Day were made by representatives from the local community, RAF Wittering and the children of Wittering Primary School.
Station Commander, Wing Commander Nikki Duncan, who attended with other Station personnel, said: “It was an incredibly moving service, and it was lovely to see so many people from the Station and
The D-Day Memorial Service in Wittering village.
local community come together to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who took part in the D-Day landings.”
Aviation Heritage Inspires Young Minds
The fascinating world of aviation history was recently brought to life for Wittering Primary School pupils.
Michael Deeley, a Propulsion System Specialist with 33 years of RAF experience and a member of the RAF Wittering Heritage Centre Committee, gave a presentation to 37 children in Year 2, aged six to seven years.
Mr Deeley crafted a 20-minute presentation that captivated the young audience, tracing the evolution of aircraft from World War I to modern times. The children were particularly thrilled to see photos of the aircraft that inspired the names of their house teams: Spitfire, Hawk, Tornado, and Harrier.
The story began with RAF Wittering's role in World War I, highlighting a Bristol BE2 from No 38 (Home Defence) Squadron that shot down a German Zeppelin in July 1916. Students learned about the transformation of propulsion systems, from simple propeller engines to advanced jet engines, including the unique Pegasus engine. The interactive session encouraged questions and participation, and kept the children fully engaged throughout.
The highlight of the presentation was a hands-on experience where each child had the opportunity to try on a pilot's helmet.
Teacher Janine March said: “The children had a lovely afternoon. Michael's talk fitted in perfectly with our history of flight topic. Michael was so informative, and the children were very curious about his time in the RAF
too. They particularly loved trying on the helmets at the end.”
• RAF Wittering Heritage Centre encourages visits from schools, colleges, cadet forces, veteran's groups, and other associations to learn about the Royal Air Force's rich history, particularly at Wittering. For those interested in organising a visit or learning more about the RAF Wittering Heritage Centre, please contact wittering.heritage.centre@ gmail.com
Wittering Pupil's Road Safety Design Immortalised
Personnel from 2 Military Transport Squadron (2MT) at RAF Wittering have honoured a young student's creativity in promoting road safety.
Ollie Slowinski, a pupil at Wittering Primary School, was presented with a steel version of his winning poster design, which will now be prominently displayed at the school.
The poster, focusing on the
importance of speed awareness, was part of 2MT's Road Safety Week initiative.
The squadron invited students from the School to participate in creating road safety posters, with Ollie's design standing out among the entries. As a testament to the quality and impact of his work, 2MT reproduced Ollie's poster on A3 steel sheets.
The children tried on the pilot helmet.
Mr Deeley gave presentation on aviation to the children at Wittering Primary School.
AS1 Martin of 2MT with Ollie Slowinski and Wittering Primary School Headteacher Charlotte Blake.
JARTS returns Sea Harrier to Falklands
It has been 42 years since Argentinian Forces invaded the Falkland Islands 8,000 miles away in the South Atlantic.
Islanders who were there during the Falklands Conflict of 1982, welcomed the two historic aircraft as a team of six Royal Navy members of the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron (JARTS) delivered a Lynx (XZ725) and Sea Harrier (ZH801) to a site at Port Stanley.
Standing by with the many onlookers to salute the arriving aircraft on Michael Clapp Way were Commodore Michael Clapp, the amphibious task force commander during the conflict, and Cdr Tim Gedge, Commanding Officer of 809 Squadron during the conflict.
Having meticulously planned the operation to deliver the aircraft, Chief Petty Officer Wright and his team had built the aircraft at Marchwood (having been disassembled for road transportation in the UK) before their departure by sea to reduce the risk and workload of rebuilding them in the cold South Atlantic winter. This had the added benefit of creating a rather
splendid spectacle for the Falkland Islanders when the aircraft made their way fully built under police escort and flying the Royal Ensign alongside the Falklands flag on the snowy 40-mile journey from Mare Harbour to Port Stanley.
Tim Gedge noted: “The transit along the road drew large crowds from everyone we met. The islanders are hugely grateful to have these two aircraft for display.”
The aircraft were positioned on the site for the new museum (Lookout Gallery and Exhibition Hall) just in time for Liberation Day on June 14. JARTS ensured they laid a wreath for the fallen on the Falklands Conflict Memorial during the Liberation Day Parade.
Falkland Islanders were thrilled with the aircraft. Once positioned, members of the public surrounded the aircraft and immortalised the moment
by photographing themselves next to them.
Leona Roberts, who was 10 years old at the time of the conflict, said: “Seeing the Sea Harrier fly over was our first sight of help arriving, filling us with hope. We are so happy to have these iconic aircraft for display.”
While ZH801 (falsely marked as ZH800) did not actually take part in the Falklands Conflict, XZ725 certainly did. Operating from the frigate HMS Brilliant, she torpedoed the ARA Santa Fe (S21), an Argentine Submarine, and crippled it out of action.
The history of the Falklands Conflict fresh in their minds, the JARTS team lay a cross at every Royal Navy memorial on the island and drank a toast to the fallen. Recording our service history is crucial, but being able to display old warbirds like the Lynx and Sea Harrier brings the history out in a significantly more meaningful light.
During the past year, JARTS has been busy lifting and shifting RN, RAF, Army, and civilian aviation assets. JARTS, which is part of 42 Wing but is based at RAF Boscombe Down, remain on high alert to carry out Rapid Runway Clearance (RRC), responding to crash sites to carry out Aircraft Post Crash and Incident Management (APCIM), and transporting serviceable and unserviceable aircraft around the world.
This task proved their reach is genuine in their ability to move aircraft world-wide, even to somewhere as remote as the Falkland Islands.
The Sea Harrier was popular with the islanders.
The Lynx (XZ725) took part in the Falklands Conflict.
The aircraft arrived just in time for Liberation Day.
TEA BREAK TIME Spot The Difference
Can you spot the 10 differences in these two photographs?
Wordsearch
Which of the Roald Dahl characters listed below cannot be found in the grid?
The marvellously medicinal Roald Dahl quiz
Roald Dahl Story Day is an annual celebration of the work of Roald Dahl on September 13 – Dahl’s birthday. Pull up a chair for this quiz, are you sitting comfortably?
1. True or false, Roald Dahl’s parents were Swedish?
2. True or false, in 2021 Forbes ranked Dahl the top-earning dead celebrity?
3. Which writer did Roald Dahl meet when he was a child, was it: Agatha Christie; Beatrix Potter; or Sir Arthur Conan Doyle?
4. For how many weeks was Dahl temporarily blinded after hitting a boulder while landing his Gloster Gladiator in 1940: two weeks; four weeks; or six weeks?
5. True or false, Dahl wrote the screenplay for the James Bond film You Only Live Twice?
6. True or false, Dahl had a typing speed of 35 words per minute?
7. Dahl had a few favourite items buried with him, which of these items were not included: a fountain pen; a snooker cue; or chocolates?
8. True or false, Dahl’s first choice for the role of Willy Wonka in the 1971 movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was the comedian and writer Spike Milligan?
9. In which year did Dahl write his first children’s book, was it: 1943; 1961, or 1964?
10. Which of the following words did Roald Dahl not invent, was it: twizzler; splendiferous; or whirligig?
JUST ONE MORE THING… Dahl so disliked the 1971 movie version of his novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory that he refused permission for any other versions, and for the adaptation of the sequel Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, within his lifetime.
Op BILOXI Deployment & Recovery
Earlier this year, Cpl Crook and AS1 Hill (Logs Mov) and AS1 Sim (Logs Sup) from No 1 Expeditionary Logistics (EL) Sqn, Mobility Support Flight (MSF), flew to Constanta International Airport in Romania to accept more than 150 tonnes of freight sent by multiple UK RAF bases in support of the Operation.
There were three separate convoys and multiple air platforms transporting the vital equipment which needed to be handled by the MSF at the US air base to enable the UK to fulfil its NATO air policing commitment in the Black Sea region.
The deployed Movements section consisted of logisticians from RAF Wittering, RAF Marham and RAF Lossiemouth, collaborating to form a section of seven personnel. Utilising locally sourced forklifts capable of lifting up to 2,000kg and
16,000kg respectively, the freight was successfully downloaded from 2 Mechanical Transport (2MT) Squadron trucks and positioned around the UK detachment’s domestic and technical sites.
The Romanian Air Force provided a transfer loader which allowed the RAF Movers to offload the freight from RAF C17 and A400M aircraft onto US Air Force vehicles for transport to their final location. This allowed the UK detachment to be at full operating capability in time for the arrival of the Typhoon fighter jets. The deployment was successful thanks to the coordination of multinational forces and civilian agencies being managed by the Support Force and the deployed Movements personnel on the ground.
With the Operation drawing to a close, 1EL Sqn are currently deploying their Movement specialists back to Romania to join the UK detachment in consolidating all their kit and equipment to be processed, built, manifested, weighed, and loaded
to the RAF aircraft and vehicles for its 2,500km multimodal journey home. Cpl Crook and AS1 Bull from 1EL Sqn were due to join their team of Movement colleagues at the Romanian air base in late August 2024 to begin the complex recovery.
AS1 Hill coordinating the offload of inbound ISO containers.
16T forklift offloading 2MT transport on arrival in Constanta.
AS1 Hill marshalling large forklift, ensuring safe offload of containers.
AS1 Hill & AS1 Sim destuffing equipment from ISO containers alongside Typhoon engineers.
Cpl Crook marshalling a host nation transfer loader into C17 aircraft for offload.
Peterborough United Football Club Academy Visit
The up-and-coming football stars of the Peterborough United Football Club (PUFC) Academy visited RAF Wittering to take part in a ‘Boot Camp’ style activity.
For the group of 16- to 21-year-olds hoping to make the Club’s first team, the goal was to learn about RISE (Respect, Integrity, Service, and Excellence) and service life, as well as to enhance their own leadership, team ethos and communication in an unfamiliar environment.
Not one football was kicked throughout the duration of the visit. Instead, from the moment they arrived they were they were put into a state of ‘shock of capture’. They put on green flying suits, had their mobile phones taken off them and then headed straight out for a station familiarisation run with our friendly resident Physical Training Instructor, Cpl Thompson. No one knows who was more in shock – the players running at PTI pace, or the PTI
running at the athletic young players' pace!
The afternoon didn’t stop there. The youngsters were tired, but their biggest task for the day was to erect their accommodation for the next two days: four 12x12 tents under the instruction of 504 Sqn Sgt Jones and Cpl Gill.
After a first night under canvas, the team had an early morning wake up call at 0500hrs with a reveille by WO Hughes ‘before breakfast’ to do a double session of Boxercise and Spinning. The remainder of the day's activities, including a Battle PT session to round off things, were conducted under the instruction of a visiting PTI from RAF Honington, Cpl Craig.
On the third day the tempo was slowed down - however, the young
team still needed to perform. WO Hughes took them through a series of mobile team challenges testing their leadership, team building and communication and listening skills.
The three days spent at RAF Wittering would force the youngsters out of their comfort zone into an area that they would not typically put themselves in while living at home. Having to deal with physical and mental fatigue, while living communally in an uncomfortable environment - while still having to perform to the best of their ability is a tall order for most teenagers.
All of the PUFC Academy players were put through their paces and performed admirably throughout the camp. The PUFC Staff witnessed their players going through a steep learning curve, seeing a genuinely positive change in the way the team communicated with one another. They dug deep and took ownership of their roles, helping each other out when the ‘going got tough’ which in turn would benefit them not only on the pitch but off it as well.
Due to the overall success of the camp, Peterborough Utd – or POSH as they are better knownare hoping to put the first team through their paces at RAF Wittering next year – so watch this space!
RAF Wittering Deployment Brunch
RAF Wittering’s Community Support Team recently held its first Deployment Brunch. Aimed at supporting the families of deployed personnel, the event was well received and attracted some very positive feedback from those who attended.
One lady who attended said she has been ‘run ragged’ over the last four months looking after her toddler while her husband was deployed. She took the opportunity to really make an occasion of the day and enjoy some much needed ‘me time’. She arranged childcare for the day and dressed up to come to the Community Learning Centre for the drop-in session in the morning. She then went on to enjoy the Deployment Brunch and ended her day with some pampering with a hair appointment on station. Speaking afterwards she said it had been such a brilliant day, remarking that it was “just what she needed, time to be herself again”.
Another lady, who didn’t have children, said she had found it difficult to attend deployment teas by herself, but having met the Community Support team, she felt that the timing of the Brunch better suited her. She appreciated the time to chat with other people who understood exactly what she was going through.
There were many other happy stories: one lady, whose children were in school, took a day’s leave to come while another lady asked her family to mind her young baby so she could come and chat to people going through a similar situation to her.
Everyone who attended agreed that it was a very worthwhile experience; they enjoyed the opportunity to chat while enjoying some lovely food. Overall, it proved to be a huge success.
RAF Wittering Deployment Brunch.
RAF Support Force leads the way on
Exercise AUXILIUM FORT
Logisticians and Engineers from Royal Air Force Wittering, alongside colleagues from other Global Enablement Force Elements, took part in Exercise AUXILIUM FORT 24.
The RAF Support Force HQ A7 (Training and Exercise Team) led the planning and delivery of the exercise which takes place annually. The exercise was designed to test service personnel completing technical tasks in an austere environment, while stretching their warfighting skills.
The annual exercise was held at RAF Honington in the Complex Air Ground Environment (CAGE), due to runway resurfacing at Wittering. Over 300 service personnel from across Global Enablement took part in the exercise, either as participants, Directing Staff, or enablers. Exercise AUXILIUM FORT follows on from the delivery of monthly
CENTURION FORT exercises. These are local field training exercises delivered by Support Force HQ A7 team.
Under the direction of Commander Support Force, Group Captain Will Andrew, personnel from the highly skilled and high readiness squadrons of 42 Expeditionary Support (ES) Wing and 85 Expeditionary Logistics (EL) Wing, 1 Air Mobility Wing (AMW), 504 Royal Auxiliary Air Force (RAuxAF) and Joint Aircraft Recovery and Transportation Squadron (JARTS) combined to train collectively with other Global Enablement
Force Elements: 90 Signals Unit (SU), Tactical Medical Wing (TMW) and Air Security Force (ASF).
These Force Elements routinely enable, sustain, and recover RAF Operations around the globe, and many of those on the exercise are held at the highest state of readiness, allowing a rapid response to any tasking handed to the RAF. Considering how ready Support Force needs to be to react, it is essential that the Aviators are given the opportunity to work collectively and to complete key NATO and internal training objectives.
Building on the success of Exercise AUXILIUM FORT 23, this year’s exercise allowed for a diverse set of challenges to be thrown at these expert Aviators. Over 250 “exercise injects” were completed, allowing 147 Training Objectives to be signed off.
This year, the Global Enablement Force Elements practised their ability to rapidly deploy to an austere airfield, sustain operations and then recover. Initially they set up a Deployed Operating Base (DOB)
1 Expeditionary Logistics (EL) Squadron Fuel Support Team.
mirroring NATO Air Policing, in a medium threat ground environment. Once they had created their DOB, they soon established a daily routine, with taskings running through a HQ element allowing deployed Force Elements to react accordingly.
A standout task was the combined work of 93 Expeditionary Armament (EA)
Squadron, 2 Mechanical Transport (MT) Squadron, and 5001 Sqn: they coordinated the move of armaments and fuel from the DOB to a Forward Operating Base (FOB) and then onto RAF Marham where they conducted the first “hot-pit” refuelling of the fifth generation F-35B Lightning, thus reenforcing the ability of the Support Force to perform Agile Combat
Employment (ACE) activity.
International partners from the French Air and Space Force and the French Fuels Authority travelled to RAF Honington to discuss how the UK and France might work collectively in the future. Representatives from Movements, Fuels and Engineering backgrounds were able to conduct meaningful discussions about how an AngloFrench partnership could work collectively in the exercising space. Exercise AUXILIUM FORT 25 will allow this opportunity to be explored further.
The exercise culminated with a complex, simulated ground attack from enemy forces. Aviators took defensive positions, performed post attack recovery drills and defended the DOB from the enemy, demonstrating their ability to be war fighters as well as technical experts.
The exercise director, Wg Cdr Steve Micklewright had the following to say about this year’s exercise:
“Exercise AUXILIUM FORT 24 is the culmination of seven
months intensive planning by the Support Force’s Exercise Planning Team, with fantastic support from colleagues across Global Enablement. Using the excellent training area at RAF Honington, we have been able to test our personnel in a range of areas in a challenging environment.
“For many this has been their first experience of such conditions, and I have been delighted by the way they have responded. Their enthusiasm, flexibility and teamwork has seen them through to success and enhanced their readiness for high tempo operations. With Exercise AUXILIUM FORT 24 complete, we now start work on next year’s exercise: bigger, better, and more challenging for all.”
JARTS in action.
Vehicle from No 2 MT Squadron.
Medics from Tactical Medical Wing assessing a ‘casualty’ in a training scenario.
The finale photo.
Steam Loco Renamed to Mark
100th Anniversary
His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester took to the footplate of one of the last surviving Battle of Britain class steam locomotives renamed the ‘Royal Auxiliary Air Force’ to mark the centenary of the Force.
Squadron Leader Slater, Officer Commanding 504 Squadron, based at RAF Wittering, was joined by Corporal Waddick, AS1 Chebovskaja, AS1 Corbett, AS1 Hudson, AS1 Gilley and AS1 Stacey who attended the event alongside their families and civilian employers, highlighting the strong partnerships that exist to support our part-time Reservists.
After a trip aboard the steam engine, guests enjoyed an afternoon tea prepared by
Reservist Chefs WO Oberhoffer and AS1 Faulkner on the Nene Valley Railway Platform at Wansford. Music was provided by the Band of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force. During the event, HRH the Duke of Gloucester spoke individually with many guests, including 504 Sqn serving personnel, their employers, families, and members of the 504 Sqn Association.
During World War II a quarter of the RAF Squadrons
that fought in the Battle of Britain were Auxiliary Air Force Squadrons, where they accounted for a third of the aerial combat successes. The subsequent vital contribution the Auxiliary Air Force made to the war effort across the globe was recognised by His Majesty King George VI, who bestowed the prefix Royal to what is now the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.
This year marks 100 years since the formation of the Auxiliary Air Force. To celebrate, 504 Sqn will participate in numerous other events throughout the year to commemorate this proud history, culminating in the presentation of a new Squadron standard in October 2024.
RAF Music
The busy summer season for the Band of the RAF Regiment began with a trip to Oslo to perform in the Norwegian Military Tattoo. Held in the Oslo Spektrum Arena, their marching display included film music from Top Gun, Band of Brothers and James Bond before the grand finale sequence sharing the tattoo stage with international acts such as The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Dancers, Top Secret Drum Corps, Den Kongelige Livgardes Musikkorps and US Marine Drum and Bugle Corps.
Meanwhile the Brass Ensemble of the Band of the RAF College travelled to Bangkok where they were hosted by the British Ambassador of Thailand, to take part in a celebration of His Majesty
The King’s Birthday. With the main event taking place in the Four Seasons Hotel, the ensemble also delivered masterclasses at two local Bangkok international schools and concluded the visit with a wreath laying ceremony and Last Post at the Kanchanaburi War Cemetery.
The Principal Director of Music (RAF), Wing Commander Murray, conducted the Combined Bands of His Majesty’s Armed Forces at the FA Cup Final in Wembley Stadium as part of the prematch entertainment. Alongside colleagues from the Band of the Scots Guards and the Band of
The Combined Bands of HM Armed Forces take centre stage in Wembley Stadium prior to kick-off at the FA Cup Final.
HM Royal Marines, Collingwood, RAF Music collaborated with Radio 1 DJ Jeremiah Asiamah, accompanied Malakai Bayoh, who sang Abide With Me, and Zara McFarlane in the National Anthem.
Most humbling were the recent events held in commemoration of D-Day 80, both in Portsmouth and Normandy. RAF Music took part in the stage event at Southsea Common with RAF Trumpeters sounding the fanfares to open the event and musicians playing as part of the Tri-Service Orchestra.
In Normandy, RAF Music played at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Vigil at Bayeux War Cemetery and then at the event at the British Normandy Memorial at Ver-sur-Mer. Hosted by the Royal British Legion and attended by His Majesty The King and other Heads of State, the event was watched globally and it was a huge privilege to be a part of.
By Sgt Nicola Juden
The Band of the RAF Regiment performing inside the Oslo Sprektrum Arena at the Norwegian Military Tattoo.
Military Choir Celebrates 10th Anniversary
This year, Cottesmore Wives Military Choir is celebrating a special milestone. Having formed in September 2014, they have now been going for 10 years and are continuing to go from strength to strength.
There has recently been an influx of new members, so for anyone thinking of joining the choir, now is the perfect time to take the plunge! Mental health and wellbeing are topical subjects, and therefore this is a great opportunity to highlight just how good singing is for the soul. Singing together is also great for promoting other health benefits such as increased selfconfidence, developing a sense of pride, and helping to combat loneliness and isolation, all in the company of a group of crazy ladies who totally understand the struggles of being a Military Wife.
A choir spokesperson said: “From enjoying singing at school to singing in the shower or in the car, it is a whole other level to hear voices joined in song. Many feel they don’t have a good singing voice, or they can’t read music, but you will be amazed how different it is to sing in a group, hearing the harmonies join to make a wonderful and joyous sound. Many of our songs have been written especially for the Military Wives network and resonate as much today as they would have in years gone by.”
The choir is hosting a celebratory concert at St Nicholas Church in Cottesmore Village on September 14 and has invited local dignitaries such as the Lord Lieutenant, the High Sheriff, and Station Commanders of Kendrew Barracks and RAF Wittering, some of whom have been great advocates and supporters of the choir since our inception.
Local businesses from across the region have kindly and generously donated some excellent raffle prizes. Tickets can be purchased from cottesmore@militarywiveschoir. org or by calling 07751 440820.
WITTWell
Health and Wellbeing Day
The RAF Wittering Health and Wellbeing Committee known as ‘WITTWell’, recently held a Health and Wellbeing Day for all personnel based at RAF Wittering.
It was an opportunity to showcase the breadth of the sporting activities and community support amenities available to military and civilian colleagues and their families. This included interactive sports stands, including the golf simulator and archery range, giving those attending the chance to have a go at something new. The event was also supported by the Rutland Sailing Club and the RAF Safety Boat team, both demonstrating the multitude of sports and pastimes available. The Table-Top Gaming Club, one of the newest clubs at RAF Wittering, also put on a stand that proved to be highly popular attracting a significant number of people.
Of course, the day would not have been complete without offering advice and guidance on healthy eating and nutrition. The joint 1 Expeditionary Logistics Squadron (1ELS) and 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3MCS) team proved how much could be done with limited resources while demonstrating the crucial relationship between eating well and the effect it can have on your outlook or mood. WO Andrea Culley from 1ELS succinctly called it –‘mood-food’!
Another popular attraction was kindly provided by ESS, RAF Wittering’s Catering Partner, who brought down the Smoothie bike. Once the first volunteer got started and showed how easy it was, the queue for self-mixed smoothies grew and grew! As well as providing the Smoothiebike, ESS were also instrumental in providing excellent nutritional advice. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the BFBS ice-cream van, which provided
free ice-cream to all those who attended – while the nutritional value of the ice-cream wasn’t clear, it certainly helped with people’s moods!
RAF Wittering is fortunate to have a high level of community support, and this event was no exception. The event was supported by the RAF Families Federation, SSAFA and Royal Air Force Association who all came along to talk to people about the range of support offered by their teams. These stands proved to be very popular throughout the day, and not only due to the free
pens and pencils that were on offer! RAF Wittering Medical and Dental teams were also on hand to provide interactive stands giving guidance on vital, physical health aspects.
This was a hugely successful day highlighting the great work being undertaken by so many different people on Station and in the wider community. The team from Bog Dog Running in Stamford deserve a special mention as utilising a station treadmill, they gave free gait analysis to attendees.
Wing Commander Mark Concarr, Chair of the WITTWell Committee said: “Days like these take a lot of planning, and this event would not have been so successful without the hard work and dedication of the committee members; I wish to thank them for their contribution.”
Plans are already afoot for a bigger and better event next year, increasing the interaction with various stands and maybe, just maybe, getting the ice-cream van for longer!
Operation BULLSEYE
In a spectacular display of skill and camaraderie, the firstever Operation BULLSEYE darts tournament culminated in Blackpool in the summer.
This groundbreaking event, the result of a year-long project led by WO2 Lee Fox (Army) and Cpl Zara Warhurst (RAF) from RAF Brize Norton, brought together 350 military and veteran dart players from all three services including RAF Wittering’s Sgt Sean Whiskers of 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3MCS).
The journey to the final event involved 16 qualifier tournaments held across the UK and Cyprus. Winners of these qualifiers earned the opportunity to compete alongside 16 professional dart players in Blackpool. Notable pros who volunteered their time and resources included Dimitri Van Der Bergh, Damon Heta, Chris Dobey, and Alan Soutar, an Army veteran himself.
The night was a resounding success, with 300 military spectators in attendance. John McDonald, an Army veteran, hosted the event, while the legendary "Voice of Darts," Russ Bray, called each match. The tournament not only elevated the profile of darts in the military but also raised an impressive £13,000 for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
Army Veteran Vince Tipple and Pro Player Keegan Brown emerged victorious in what participants described as a memorable evening. The enthusiasm generated by the event has already sparked excitement for next year's tournament.
For those interested in joining the darts community, RAF Wittering Darts Club meets every Tuesday at 19:30 in the Wittering Community Centre. Further information can be obtained from Sgt Sean Whisker (3MCS) or Cpl Jack Knight (Stn MT).
Operation BULLSEYE has set a new standard for military sports events, fostering connections between service members, veterans, and professional athletes while supporting a worthy cause.
RAF Wittering Personnel
King's Birthday Honours List
Station and Support Force Personnel from RAF Wittering have been recognised with a series of awards in The King's Birthday Honours List 2024.
A Meritorious Service Medal was awarded to Warrant Officer Chris Rowland and Chf Tech Steve Buck. The MSM recognises long and meritorious service by Warrant Officers and NonCommissioned Officers of the rank of Sergeant above.
Sqn Ldr Rich Kellet and Flt Lt David-John Gibbs of 16 Squadron were awarded an Air Officer Commanding 22 Group Commendation, while RAF Wittering Runway Project Team received an AOC 22 Group Team Commendation, a nod to their collaborative efforts during the runway resurfacing work.
Meanwhile AOC 2 Group Commendations were awarded to Station Training Office, Fg Off Mike Kostecky, Mrs Paula Finch, a SSAFA Personal and Family Support Worker, and the HIVE Information Officer Mrs Vicki Maylor.
An AOC 2 Gp Team Commendation was awarded to the RAF Wittering STEM Team, highlighting the importance of their work in inspiring the next generation.
Sqn Ldr Wayne Shead of 1 Expeditionary Logistics Squadron (1ELS) received a Joint Commander’s Commendation.
RAF Wittering Whole Force Personnel were also recognised with an Air and Space Commander Team Commendation. This award related to the swift response by a group of Station personnel to assist a lorry driver who crashed his vehicle after experiencing a medical episode.
Community News
The Community Support Team is available during normal working hours should you or your family have any specific enquiries. The team’s contact details are below.
Deployment Support
Deployed Coffee MorningsCome and meet the team in the Costa Coffee Shop (on Station), along with other deployed families. This is a chance to enjoy a chat over (free) coffee and cake! To find out when the next coffee morning is being held check out the Wittering View Facebook page.
Deployed Trips and Activities
The team is continually working on a programme of trips and activities throughout the year and we have some exciting trips lined up for the rest of the year including the ever popular Santa Express.
RAF Wittering
Station Cinema Passes
We now offer deployed families a Station Cinema Pass. The pass will allow families to be able to watch an unlimited number of movies at the Station cinema for the duration of the Service Personnel’s deployment. A huge thank you to the Station Cinema Team which has made this possible. The movie schedule can be found on the RAF Wittering Station Cinema, RAF Wittering HIVE or Wittering View Facebook pages.
If your son/daughter/partner is currently deployed or is going to be deployed to a qualifying location, and you would like more information about the support we provide along with
upcoming activities, please contact Vicki Maylor (contact details below).
SSAFA Support
Wittering has a SSAFA Welfare Officer. If you need their help please contact Paula Finch, tel. 07825 016853 or email paula. finch@ssafa-fhs.org.uk;
There is also a 24-hour number that you can call, tel. 0800 058 4690 or visit their website www.ssafa.org.uk
Advice Clinics
Buckles Solicitors offers free 30-minute appointments* on family law matters. Helen Saggers visits the Station every second and fourth Tuesday. You can also arrange an appointment at their Stamford office or via MS Teams. Make an appointment directly with Helen via email Helen. Saggers@buckles-law.co.uk or phone tel. 01780 484538. *Initial 30 minutes is free. Any time over is chargeable based on lawyer’s hourly rate.
We do not have access to a Citizens Advice Rutland adviser anymore, but the local office is more than happy to receive calls and queries from Wittering residents should you need support. Visit www.rutlandcab. org.uk or tel. 01572 723494
For all the latest information, the team is regularly posting on the
Padre’s Corner
Moving On
In America they call Autumn ‘The Fall’. I guess it is because this is the time when the leaves of the trees, having transformed to those beautiful autumnal colours, fall to the ground. The trees are preparing for the winter - by shedding their leaves they retain more water, use less energy and so are better able to survive.
As beautiful as a tree is in full leaf, and as sad as it is to see that tree without any leaves at all, we know that this is all part of the ongoing and relentless progression of the seasons. Nature knows how to adapt to the seasonal changes in temperature and length of days to survive and, eventually, to thrive.
In the same way military strategy, hardware and software is constantly changing and adapting to the perceived threats and capabilities of potential or real enemies. As beautiful a fighter as the Spitfire is, and
Wittering View and Wittering HIVE Facebook pages.
Community Support Team Contacts
Service Community Support Officer - WO Neil Paylor - tel. 07976 206569 or email neil. paylor660@mod.gov.uk
HIVE Information Officer – Vicki Maylor – tel. 01780 417541 or email Victoria.maylor100@ mod.gov.uk
Community Development Officer – Louise Sampson email Louise.sampson106@mod.gov.uk
as amazingly effective as it was during the Battle of Britain, win the years following the war the country needed to adopt newer, faster, and more powerful designs of fighter aircraft to match and overcome those being developed further afield.
We ignore history at our peril. While we must learn important lessons from the past, appreciating those events and experiences that have gone before, we also need not to cling to the past, or wish ourselves in former times. Rather, we should be ready to let the past go. Appreciate what we have in the present. Then strive to change, prepare, and adapt ourselves for that which is to come.
Do not forget. Though the trees may seem bare and lifeless as the days shorten. As the nights grow long, and the temperatures drop. The days will surely come when the days begin to lengthen, the buds begin to grow again, and the blossom appears on those same trees.
From your friend and Padre, Andrew
Useful Websites
www.rafbf.org
Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund
https://rafa.org.uk
Royal Air Forces Association
www.raf-ff.org.uk
RAF Families Federation
Please note this information was correct at the time of going to press. Please visit the Wittering View Facebook Page for all the up to minute news and information.
RAF Benevolent Fund Support for RAF Wittering
The RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity, has released its 2023 Impact Report, highlighting how it has continued to support members of the RAF Family in 2023 through practical, emotional and financial support.
The Fund helped 42,259 members of the RAF Family in 2023, including over 27,800 serving personnel and their families, and 14,397 veterans and their families, with a huge 97
percent of beneficiaries saying they were satisfied with the support they received.
One way the Fund supported the RAF Family was through RAF Station grants, with more than 12,000 people helped last year including serving personnel and their families at RAF Wittering.
In 2023, RAF Wittering were given £65,000 in grants for the Community Hub and Wellbeing Communal Area, and £5,000 in
grants for the Ben Play and Ben Parenting programmes. The Fund awarded £2,000 in grants towards Families Day and Operation Christmas, as well as £35,000 in grants for The Golden Lion refurbishment.
Irene Greenwood, Welfare Programmes Manager at the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “The grants provided by the Fund to RAF bases like Wittering are vital for ensuring RAF families receive the mental, financial and practical assistance they need. Some of the initiatives and events we have funded have enabled serving personnel and their families to come together and socialise with others, increasing cohesion on base, improving morale and mental health, as well as reducing isolation. We are delighted that
Vital Bus Service Returns for Wittering
the Fund can make a positive impact to the lives of the serving community.”
The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional, and practical assistance to serving and retired RAF personnel and their families. This includes grants to help with financial difficulty, free memberships for Headspace, Airplay youth clubs, and more. The report can be viewed online at www.rafbf.org
The number 27 bus service connecting Wittering to Peterborough and Stamford was reinstated this summer.
The service, which also stops at Wansford, Ailsworth, Castor, and Longthorpe, is being operated by Stagecoach. Campaigners have been working hard to see the return of the service.
To celebrate the new service, a detailed map created by local cartoonist John Elson has been released, showcasing attractions along the route. The map highlights both internationally significant sites like Burghley House and Peterborough Cathedral, as well as local points of interest.
This revival of the number 27 service marks a significant step in improving public transport links and accessibility for residents in the area between Peterborough and Stamford.
Coinciding with this development, the Tiger Bus Pass Scheme is a £1 bus fare initiative for under 25s.
For more details about the bus times visit: www.stagecoachbus. com. For information about the Tiger Bus Scheme visit https:// cambridgeshirepeterboroughca.gov.uk/onepoundbusfare/
The route artwork created by John Elson
RAF Wittering has received £65,000 in grants from the RAF Benevolent Fund.
SSAFA
In the Day of a Volunteer
Have you ever wondered what is takes to be a volunteer for a charity such as SSAFA?
SSAFA is a charity set up to help families cope with trials and tribulations of everyday life. This just doesn’t have to be while loved ones are deployed or on exercise. Its goal is to ensure no family is left feeling overwhelmed with
the prospect of tackling a list of ever-growing chores that they have no time to complete. The charity provides practical, emotional, and financial support to anyone who is serving or has ever served and their families. Whenever you need them, they’ll do whatever they can to help.
Monthly Meeting
The day starts off with a briefing of any task, which needs to be carried out. The tasks are then delegated to volunteers willing to help and the family who have requested support are asked what time would be best for them to pop round. It is also at this meeting that fundraising
events are arranged. These events range from cake sales to children’s discos. Anything that the panel can come up with and sounds plausible.
Getting down to work
After all the administration is out of the way it’s time the volunteers to get their hands dirty. SSAFA volunteers are ready and willing to help in any way they can. Remember no job is too small. The team can help with things such as cutting the grass to things such as providing transport to the hospital or walking the dog. The stress of having a loved one detached out of the area can take its toll in
ways that may not immediately spring to mind, and SSAFA is there for when these things suddenly start to cause issues.
Helping those in need
If you need help or would like to be part of the team do not hesitate to get in touch. Go to the SSAFA website and start the application process or speak to your SSAFA Welfare Officers. https://www.ssafa.org.uk/ volunteer-for-ssafa/servingcommunity-volunteering
RAF Wittering Airplay
Wittering Airplay held their own youth awards. Family and friends came to watch as Station Commander Wing Commander Nikki Duncan kindly presented a series of awards including Young Leader, FIFA Champion, The RAFBF Christmas Card Competition, Outstanding Contribution to Airplay and Special Recognition awards.
In May half term the team collaborated with RAF Wyton and RAF Honington to hold a Colour Run at RAF Wittering. This was their part of the Airplay Relay to raise funds for the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. Around 50 young people came together and ran, walked, skipped and laughed their way through 1,383 laps, over 276 miles between them! A fabulous time was had by all!
They kicked off the summer holidays with a Slime Lab for the younger members. Everyone made some lovely pots of slime to take home, although no one made as much mess as the station youth worker!
Next on the agenda was Aquapark. They met up with RAF Wyton and RAF Henlow Airplay (45 young people altogether) and had a brilliant time. The Aquapark is always a firm favourite.
Project Tuesday Committee
Meet the Project Tuesday Youth Committee members Joe Purnell, Rory Wilson-Jones and Chloe Thompson who come together regularly to share ideas and to be the voice for the Station’s Airplay members. Recently Wittering Village held a Summer Fayre and asked Project Tuesday to be involved. The young people spent the day selling raffle tickets and organising the tombola and the tuck shop. They did a sterling job! The Airplay members love to get involved with the local community and are looking forward to the next event.
• For more information about Airplay, their sessions and activities please contact Sharon Pollard the RAF Wittering Station Youth Worker on Sharon. pollard@ymcatrinity.org.uk
Wittering Village Summer Fayre.
Wittering young peoples awards 2024.
The RAF Benevolent Colour Run. Slime Lab.
Aquapark.
Members of Project Tuesday.
Rounders Match
AS1 Jones from 1 Expeditionary Logistic Squadron organised a Chiefs VS Indians Charities Rounders Match which raised £96 for their chosen charities; Rainbows Hospice for children and MindSpace Stamford. The Chiefs won two games while the Indians only won once, making the Chiefs the overall winners. To this date, 1ELS Charity Committee have raised £2,100 from organising various events throughout the year.
TEA TIME BREAK ANSWERS
Wordsearch answer Sophie
9. 1943, The Gremlins
10. Whirligig, that’s down to Shakespeare!
Name: Pete Chongwe
Role: Air Ground Steward
Marital Status: Long-term relationship
In the Seat
1.
What part of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
Getting to meet and talk to different people every day from different backgrounds and walks of life. Everyday you see Officers and Sergeants who do different roles and jobs to me so its nice hearing their stories and what they do as well just having conversations that are not necessarily work related but can also be very interesting.
2. And the least?
Sometimes having to miss a social due to working evenings. I am bad when it comes to FOMO (Fear of missing out).
3.
What is the best advice you have ever received? “Be confident and believe in yourself because if you do, you can achieve anything you want”
4.
Describe yourself in six words?
Happy, smiley, friendly, well mannered, ‘top lad’, funny.
5.
What career would you have followed if you had not pursued your current profession?
I would like to have been an engineer as that is something that I did in college, and I enjoyed doing very much when I was younger.
6. Is there one piece of criticism that sticks in your mind?
Being told that I was too short to play striker. It then motivated me to prove those people wrong.
7.
What would be your first act as world leader?
To tackle world hunger and poverty to enable people to have an equal chance at life.
8.
Name your desert island essentials? Phone, radio, girlfriend.
9.
How would you change the MOD?
Change the uniform to allow people to wear shorts in the summer where appropriate.
10.
What food would you choose for your last supper?
Indian curry with all the sides.
11.
Who do you most admire in the world?
Parents and girlfriend for putting up with me because I know I can be a handful at times.
12.
Name four people you would like as a dinner guest – and why?
Jurgen Klopp because I am a huge Liverpool fan, and he is a legend and also very charismatic. Michael McIntyre, I love his comedy. Messi the G.O.A.T! A$ap Rocky, he’s a cool guy and I like his music.
13.
What one piece of music would you like played at your funeral?
Toto - Africa. Great song and it serves as a reminder of where I come from.
14.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a happy friendly person who’s always up for a laugh and doesn’t always take themselves too seriously.
* Would you like to be included in the 'In the Hot Seat feature or would you like to nominate someone in your team? All you have to do is send an email to the editorial team via WIT_ GMBWittView@mod.gov.uk
Culinary Corner
Sausage Casserole with Buttered Mash
As we continue our series featuring recipes from talented caterers at RAF Wittering, AS1 Jonny Horn shares his ultimate Autumn dish – sausage casserole with buttered mash…
Ingredients
• 1–2 tbsp sunflower oil
• 12 good-quality pork sausages
• 4 rashers rindless streaky bacon, cut into 2.5cm/1in lengths
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• ½–1 tsp smoked paprika
• 400g tin chopped tomatoes
• 300ml/10fl oz chicken stock
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp dark muscovado sugar
• 4 bay leaves
• 3–4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 100ml/3½fl oz red wine
• 400g tin of mixed beans, drained and rinsed
Method
1. Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large non-stick frying pan and fry the sausages gently for 10 minutes, turning every now and then until nicely browned all over. Transfer to a large saucepan or a flameproof casserole dish and set aside.
2. Fry the bacon in the frying pan until it starts to brown and crisp and then add to the dish with the sausages.
3. Add the onions to the frying pan and fry over a medium heat for five minutes until they start to soften, stirring often. You should have enough fat in the
pan, but if not, add a little more oil. Add the garlic and cook for two to three minutes until the onions turn pale golden brown, stirring frequently.
4. Sprinkle over the smoked paprika powder and cook together for a few seconds longer.
5. Stir in the tomatoes, stock, tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and herbs. Pour in the wine, or some water if you’re not using wine, and bring to a simmer.
6. Tip the tomato mixture carefully into the pan with the sausages and bacon and return to a simmer. Reduce the heat, cover the pan loosely with a lid and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring sometimes.
7. Stir the beans into the casserole, and continue to cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick.
Mashed Potato
Ingredients
• 1kg floury potatoes (King Edwards)
• Salt • 200g salted butter
Method
1. Peel and chop your potatoes, add to a large pan and place on the heat.
2. Bring the saucepan to a boil and cook until soft and fall off a knife. Transfer to a colander, drain well and leave to steam dry.
3. When dry, pass the potatoes through a drum sieve and into a mixing bowl (or use the traditional way of mashing them).
4. Once all the potatoes have been passed through the sieve add the butter and mix well, season to taste.
Sausage casserole with butter mash.
AS1 Horn.
Rutland Farm Park is a small 18 acre working farm in the market town of Oakham, the county town of Rutand, Englands smallest county.
We Are Open All Year Round For You And Your Family To Explore Our Tracks And Fields In The Fresh Air With Plenty To Do For All The Family. ADMISSION: Adult 13+
October half term spooky happenings
Dress up in your spookiest outfit for Sunday 27th Halloween Party on the farm, For a free bag of animal food.
Halloween Half Term
Monday 14th - Sunday 27th October
Spooky scavenger hunt on every day, see media for more information.
Advent calendar workshops
£7.95pp (booking required)
Tuesday 29th October 10.30 - 12.30, 2.00 – 4.00
Come and make an advent calendar ready for the festive season – gives you plenty of time to shop for festive treats to pop in your unique creation. Younge children will need adult help.
Christmas wreath making workshops
£50pp (booking required)
Friday 29th November 7.00 – 9.00
Saturday 30th November 2.00 – 4.00 Sunday 1st December 11.00 – 1.00
Come and make a festive wreath using a variety of local and seasonal greenery, enjoy a drink and sweet treat as you create some Christmas magic to proudly place on your front door. Please bring gardening gloves and secateurs.
Advent ring for adult & child
£45 (booking required)
Saturday 30th November 10.30 – 12.30
Enjoy some quality time together as you create a festive advent ring with candles using a variety of local and seasonal greenery. All ready to light the first advent candle on Sunday. Enjoy a hot drink and sweet treat as you create some Christmas magic. Please bring gardening gloves and secateurs.
Festive craft morning for under 5’s £9.95 1 adult and child
(additional children £5.95 booking required) Wednesday 12th & 19th December 10.00 -12.30
Join in the craft fun Hats, crackers, tree decorations, masks And lots more. Includes a hot drink and cake for each participant. (10% off meals if you stay for lunch).
Breakfast with Santa £14.95pp (booking required)
Saturday 14th & 21st December 9.00 – 11.00
Enjoy a home cooked breakfast with Santa, before each chid meeting Santa and receiving a small gift. Spend the rest of the day exploring the farm and meeting the animals.
Phone: 01572 722122
Email: admin@rutlandfarm.co.uk AMPLE FREE PARKING
Afternoon tea with Santa £14.95pp (booking required)
Saturday 14th & 21st December 2.00 – 4.00
Finish a fun day at the farm with our homemade afternoon tea in the festively decorated pigsty with Santa. Each child will meet Santa and receive a small gift
TIMES ARE TUESDAY - SUNDAY 10.00AM - 5.00PM (LAST
We’re a father and son team from Peterborough, proudly running our online store since 2009.
At British Military Store, we create a variety of products, from gifts to clothing items like lapel pins and tie clips. We also offer personalised engraving on most items, making each piece unique to you.
John specializes in sandblasted glassware and engraved buttons, while Ian handles the engraving for everything else and manages our website.
We cover most regiments, past and present, and if you don’t see what you’re looking for, we can usually make it just for you.
Why not apply to stay in our holiday home for serving RAF personnel and RAF veterans? Our holiday home is available for breaks all year round.
Situated only a 15-minute walk from the traditional seaside town of Bridlington.
It’s the ideal destination to visit for a holiday with kids or for some peace and quiet.
The four-bedroom chalet bungalow is wheelchair accessible, with a disabled-friendly
bathroom. A real home from home, with everything you need for a memorable holiday.
and
Building Stronger Families is our free online platform, exclusively for RAF personnel and their families.
If you think you would benefit from useful resources to support your relationships, we can help.
Building Stronger Families covers a range of self-directed topics tailored to life in the RAF, including the impact of deployments.
We aim to equip you with the communication skills and strategies to help your relationship flourish.
Choose topics which apply to your situation, from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
We also provide relationship counselling and mediation support.
TWO NEW BIKES. SAME ICONIC SOUL.
From the tip of the front fenders to the tail of the saddlebags, these all-new machines have been reimagined to redefine the Harley-Davidson ® touring experience.
10% OFF FOR DEFENCE DISCOUNT SERVICE CARD HOLDERS