Winter 2015
Wycombe The Magazine of RAF High Wycombe
Issue 1 2022
World
W O O D L A N D PAT H E N H A N C E M E N T P R O J E C T | E V E R C O N S I D E R E D D O I N G A N U LT R A R U N ?
Blaser Mills Law officially opens new office in the heart of Marlow Leading regional law firm, Blaser Mills Law, has officially opened its new office in the heart of Marlow, Buckinghamshire. The 150-strong firm has a strategic focus on continuing to bring a wide range of expertise and experience to the local community. The new office is based in Liston Exchange, in the gardens behind Liston Court, and is headed up by Jonathan Gallop – Partner and Head of Wills, Trusts and Probate. Jonathan is joined by Lucinda Holliday – Partner and Head of the Family & Divorce team, James Simpson – Partner and Head of Data Protection and Samantha Bellia – Senior Associate in Residential Property. Since moving to Marlow the team have thoroughly enjoyed the new location and have received a very warm welcome from local residents and businesses. Taking part in sponsoring the Christmas Light Switch On and the Santa Fun Run allowed the firm to get stuck in and really engage with the community. Blaser Mills Law asked Jonathan some questions to gain an insight into his time in Marlow so far and what the future plans are for the Wills, Trusts and Probate team.
What is your personal connection to Marlow? “My wife and I moved to Marlow five years ago and we love it here. Our two daughters attend Marlow C of E Infant School (Sandygate) where my wife is a governor. I am also a bell ringer at All Saints Church”.
What has your Marlow office experience been like so far? “I am very much enjoying being able to walk to work and the great location that comes with it. It’s very handy to have everything on our doorstep. The office itself is modern and a really pleasant working environment.
build on new and existing links in the community. Our clients have given us very positive feedback and relish the fact that they have access to a local solicitor with regional backing in the town”.
What does the Wills, Trusts and Probate team have to offer? “We are a large team of highly specialist lawyers with expertise in looking after private client individuals and families. Our team is ranked in the Legal 500 and Chambers publications and provides advice in specialist areas such as Trusts, Tax Planning and Court of Protection. We offer a personal service and enjoy meeting clients face-to-face in the office, but are also happy to offer virtual meetings if preferred.”
What are the firms plans for the future? “The firm is rapidly expanding, not just within our department but across the board. I am very keen to bring more of our lawyers and support staff to join us here in Marlow. We are keen to work with local organisations and businesses and support the community throughout the year in various activities, so you will definitely see us around!”
The Blaser Mills Law team look forward to welcoming you in their new office.
The office opening has allowed me to
@BlaserMillsLaw
blaser-mills
BlaserMillsLaw
About Blaser Mills Law With existing offices in London, High Wycombe, Amersham, Marlow and Silverstone, Blaser Mills Law has become recognised as one of the top full service law firms in London and the Southeast. The firm consistently ranks in the Legal 500 and Chambers UK Guide and, last year, secured a spot in the Legal 500 rankings for the seventh year running, with 10 practice areas listed and an additional 31 lawyers recommended. For more information, visit www.blasermills.co.uk or call +44 (0) 20 3814 2020
Station Commander’s Foreword Group Captain Arnold
Editorial Team OIC: Fg Off Hayden McEwan Ext 3019 Editor: SAC Nick Koppanen Ext 4766 Mailbox: HWY-EditorWycombeWorld@ mod.gov.uk Photographer: SAC Nathan Cooper Ext 4533 All articles are to be in ‘Word’ format with separate JPEG images. Designer: Amanda Robinson Email: amanda@lancemedia.co.uk Advertising: Ken Tel: (01536) 334 225 Email: Ken@lancemedia.co.uk Published by: Lance Media Ltd 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Rd, Kettering, NN16 8NL Tel: (01536) 334222 Fax: (01536) 515481 Email: mike@lancemedia.co.uk Printed By: Micropress
A
very warm welcome to the Spring edition of the Wycombe World. As I write, we have 'sprung forward' and the daffodils are already making way for the bluebells. By the time you read this, you will have had, with any luck, a Happy Easter, some quality time off and maybe a little chocolate! It has been a challenging quarter. The pandemic has
continued to impact all our lives, both at work and at home, but at last the effects appear to be easing. The more transmissible variants have increased the number of cases we have seen on Station, but thanks to high vaccination rates, those cases have been less severe. That said, common sense and vigilance remain key and we continue to monitor cases and provide quarantine houses as required. Perhaps of greater concern has been the conflict in Ukraine and the uptick in operational tempo here at High Wycombe. The Station remains focussed on supporting operations, whether deployed or local, and the RAF Regiment team, the PTIs and the HR staff have all been proactive in preparing personnel for their taskings. There has also been a major effort to address the chronic shortage of single living accommodation, with some
innovative re-thinking by the Estates team delivering early results. I continue to be impressed by the good work of our welfare and community support staff and I welcome the arrival of the new Padre, Andi Chapman, who many of you will have already met. As we come out of the worst of the pandemic's restrictions and focus on a busy Summer schedule, I am keen that we all look after ourselves, our families and our neighbours and try to reinforce the sense of community and pride in our unit. The Queen's Platinum Jubilee will help with that and I look forward to joining in with many of you during the run up to those celebrations. As ever, keep safe. Non Sibi
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Submission Deadline... All articles for the Issue 2 2022 Edition to be sent to the Editor no later than May 2022 to HWY-EditorWycombeWorld@ mod.gov.uk. Please send all articles as a word document with all photos and images imbedded with in the article.
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WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
Editor’s Welcome
CONTENTS ISSUE 1 2022
SAC Nick Koppanen
W
ell, we’re back! It’s been a wee while since the last issue of Wycombe World but we’re back again with a packed full edition. Thankfully moving forward, we will be on schedule so you can expect quarterly editions of the magazine. On station we have recently had visits from Sir Arthur Harris’ daughter to view the Marshall of the Royal Air Force’s old office, (Retd) Wg Cdr Tim Jones who contributed in the RAF Regiment during the Dhofar rebellion, and also DCom Ops, Air Mshl Sir Gerry Mayhew who met with service people across station. The PEd flight, as always, have a great article on the recent ongoings in there and a
whole host of information on nutrition and fitness. Padre Chrissy Lacey has also recently left station. I’m sure her cookies, synonymous with any of the Padre’s outing will be well missed, but not as much as the Padre herself. The newcome Station Chaplain, Reverend (Sqn Ldr) Andrew Chapman was very open to following in the Padre’s footsteps with another edition of ‘Padre’s Ponderings’, where he speaks about his previous postings and life at home. Welcome Reverend and enjoy your time at High Wycombe!
07 The Visit By The Family Of Sir Arthur T Harris, Former Chief Of Bomber Command 09 DCOM OPS Visit To RAF High Wycombe 11 Phishing Advice and Guidance 11 Veteran Recalls King George VI's Final Journey On The 70th Anniversary Of His Death 13 RAF Regiment 8th Anniversary 14
ISW Table Top
15 Woodland Path Enhancement Project 15 Padre's Ponderings - A Welcome 17 Exercise SKI Valour 19 Ever Considered Doing An Ultra Run? 20 PEd FLT
I hope you enjoy reading through, and as always if you have an article to submit, don’t hesitate to get in touch! SAC Nicholas Koppanen
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The views expressed by the contributors to the Wycombe World are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander.
WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
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FORMER CHIEF OF BOMBER COMMAND
B
eing the custodian of the Harris Room, when I was told by the Chief of the Air Staff in his outer office that Sir Arthur’s draughter would like to see her father’s office, I was overjoyed. The visit was arranged by the head of the Air Historical Branch Mr Seb Cox OBE, who met Mrs Jacqueline Assheton at the Bomber Command memorial in Green Park. The visiting party of Jacqueline and her son Tom were met at the entrance to the Officer Mess by Mr Cox, Flt Lt Lisa Carvill (the Project Officer), and myself. After lunch was taken, I went ahead to open up the Harris Room in Lancaster Block and made sure her father’s old parking slot was free for her to park under the window outside the Office.
WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
They were met by D Com Cap, Air Marshal Andrew Turner and WORAF, WO Jake Alpert. Jackie, as she asked me to call her, and Tom an historian in his own right were most impressed and said what a lovely fitting tribute to her father As the visit ended, the visiting party were presented gifts (A Gentlemen Tie and a ladies headscarf ) by Air Marshal Turner, I then myself presented each of them a framed print of the Harris Room with a brass inscription of the visit
a wonderful day he was very kind in letting Jackie and Tom look around which was the
first time she had been in the house since her father left Bomber Command in 1945.
Jackie, after the visit ask me about the house she lived in up at Great Kingshill. The house was the home to the CinC till the late 1990’s and was called Springfield I know the owner of the house now, and to crown off
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Stn News
THE VISIT BY THE FAMILY OF SIR ARTHUR T HARRIS,
People who serve in the RAF are trained to be self-reliant. All too often, when life gets tough, they suffer in silence. Our Listening and Counselling Service provides confidential support. We also offer online mindfulness training through free Headspace memberships. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, stress or low self-esteem, we’re here to help.
Find out more: rafbf.org CALL 0300 102 1919 The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109).
SCAN ME WITH YOUR CAMERA
T
he staff of RAF High Wycombe were very pleased to welcome Air Mshl Sir Gerry Mayhew KCB CBE, DCom Ops, to 3 Site at RAF High Wycombe on the 31st of January. Air Mshl Mayhew was welcomed to the Station Heritage Room by the Station Commander and the executive team, including RAF representatives from the US Visiting Forces.
Air Mshl Mayhew was treated to some home-made fruit cake (thanks to WO Clark) at the Integrated Welfare Facility where he met the outstanding welfare team and heard about the fantastic work they do to support the RAF High Wycombe community before being given a brief on the SLA risks and issue at High Wycombe to culminate the visit.
Air Mshl Mayhew was provided with a comprehensive brief which focussed on the challenges faced by Station personnel, and the efforts that have gone in to addressing them. He then met various Whole Force members across the rank/grade spectrum of RAF High Wycombe where he offered his perspective in respect of the current operational tempo and the views of the senior leadership team on current events and projects. Unsurprisingly, SSP and SLA were the main areas of concern raised by Station personnel, but Force Generation and new uniform possibilities were discussed in a very open and honest forum. The honesty of the questions was welcomed by DCom Ops, who has promised to do what he can to help, not to mention offer some career advice in respect of HRoM!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE LOCATIONS VISITED PLEASE CONTACT:
WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
Stn News
DCOM OPS VISIT TO RAF HIGH WYCOMBE
Station Heritage Room: Station Training Officer (kathryn.duncan103@ mod.gov.uk) Integrated Welfare: Community Development Officer (danielle. bowman943@mod.gov.uk) Padre: (andrew.chapman107@ mod.gov.uk) OC SD & PS: (laura-jane.piercy516@ mod.gov.uk) Station Community Support Officer: (barry.tanswell703@ mod.gov.uk)
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Kitchener’s is centrally located between Great Yarmouth and Southwold with easy access transport links and a host of places to visit and things to do for both adults and children alike. You will find a warm welcome from the resident Manager, Ash, who served in the armed forces, and his wife Caroline. Amongst both regular and new guests, Kitchener’s has a solid reputation as being a place to relax and unwind amongst likeminded people; there’s nothing like the camaraderie and humour of those who have served our country, no matter in what capacity. With regular guests such as Royal Chelsea Pensioners and Normandy D-Day Vets, there are often stories to be heard from conflicts past. They too, love to speak with the younger veterans and serving personnel to hear about what is going on now and how things have changed. It is not uncommon to find a group gathered in the bar exchanging stories.
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A stay at Kitchener’s is offered at a substantially discounted price for our veterans and serving armed forces and their families which is subsidised by grants and charitable donations. This allows us to offer a warm, friendly ‘home from home’ stay at an affordable price.
AND GUIDANCE
D
o you know information that someone might want to get hold of? The answer is almost certainly yes – even information such as an old address can prove vital to identity theft. An easy rule of thumb to avoid becoming victim to phishing attacks is to never click un-solicited links. In reality, it's not practical to live under this blanket statement and the best plan of action is to understand the threat and know a few tricks to suss out the legitimacy of hyperlinks. Always check for mischievous tricks in the domain name (URL) of the website you are visiting. It could swap out characters for numbers, include additional letters or abuse subdomains to fool you. Another way to
avoid getting caught is to self-navigate to sites upon receiving emails instead of following hyperlinks. If you own a modern smartphone – make sure you update it regularly, as although Vendors ensure the security of these devices, most don’t come with AntiMalware packages preinstalled. Usually, this can be sufficient but in cases where a sophisticated threat may arise, it is crucial to make sure you are not running a compromised firmware version and allow hackers an easy way into your device. If you would like to learn more, please visit www. ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware or get in touch with hwy-cyberprotectteam@ mod.gov.uk.
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VETERAN RECALLS KING GEORGE
VI’S FINAL JOURNEY ON
THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIS DEATH
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former Grenadier Guard has recalled the role he played in the funeral of His Majesty King George VI, ahead of the 70th anniversary of the monarch’s funeral. John Walmsley was a Sergeant in the King’s Company stationed at Victoria Barracks in Windsor, and in charge of escort detachment, when word came through that the King had died at his estate in Sandringham, on 6 February 1952. The 95-year-old is now a resident at Royal Star & Garter’s High Wycombe Home. The charity provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia. Aged 25, he accompanied the King’s coffin from a train station at Windsor, to the castle, and into St George’s Chapel, on the day of the funeral on 15 February 1952. Looking back 70 years, John said: “In those days there were two stations in Windsor, and the train carrying the King came into the top station, near the castle. As soon as it arrived, I was there, as part of an escort which also included the Navy. We escorted the coffin, walking on either side of the gun carriage, all the way from the station into Windsor Castle itself and towards St George’s Chapel, ready for its burial. I had 15 men on one side, 15 on the other and that was my little detachment.” But there were then tense moments when the coffin arrived at the chapel. “The steps to St George’s Chapel are very steep, and the coffin was lead lined, so the lads who were carrying it had to practice in advance with
WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
weights inside it, to make sure they were prepared,” said John. “The coffin was walked up the chapel steps by the four men on either side. These men were strong and strapping, but the coffin was very heavy, and as they walked up the steep steps, it sloped a lot, and the boys were struggling with it. So the Warrant Officer behind it had to push the back of the coffin, by just easing it forward, up with the boys. We also had to adjust our march to the shuffle of the men who were carrying it. When the coffin went into the Chapel that was the end of the responsibility for us.”
Stn News
PHISHING ADVICE
Remembering the day, John added: “It’s a strange feeling, especially with the public all around you, and you’re aware that you’re taking part in a moment of history. But when you’re serving, you’re on duty, and it’s all planned and timed.” John joined the Grenadier Guards in 1944, and served until 1967, rising to the rank of Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant. He served in post-war Germany, Palestine and Malaya. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who is Royal Star & Garter’s Patron, succeeded to the throne following her father’s death. John also took part in her Coronation ceremony, on 2 June 1953. The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations are taking place this year, culminating in a four-day bank holiday at the beginning of June to mark her 70 years on the throne. Royal Star & Garter also has Homes in Solihull and Surbiton, and is welcoming new residents. For more information and working for the charity, go to www. starandgarter.org WW: 11
I ndi v id ua l V i si ts W e lcom e
OUTSTANDING EDUCATION A LEVEL 2021
62% 89%
REGI
A*/A GRADES
Founded 1553
A*/B
40.2
Generous Forces’ Bursaries A strong House and tutor system to look after your child’s pastoral and academic wellbeing
AVE IB SCORE
IN 2021
An outstanding range of extra-curricular activities
A flourishing boarding community 100 prep boarders (aged 7 -13) and 480 senior boarders
42%
One of the UK’s leading day and boarding schools
(2021 RESULTS)
Contact Admissions to organise a visit
Day and Boarding, 1090 pupils aged 13 - 18 720 pupils aged 2 - 13
F L A I R
DISTINCTION*
admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk
01527 579679
bromsgrove-school.co.uk •
D I S C I P L I N E
•
A C A D E M I C
R I G O U R
Bromsgrove - A Home from Home Joining Bromsgrove as a boarder is an exciting prospect and, for most children, a big change. It is normal to feel a little nervous, but the Bromsgrove environment is both welcoming and warm, with over 580 boarders aged 7 to 18 there is always someone around you to make you feel at home and you will most definitely find someone who shares your interests and hobbies. Senior boarders aged 13+ live in one of our six fantastic boarding houses and Prep School boarders live in Page House. Prep boarding for 7-13 year olds is thriving, so much so we have opened a new Senior Page boarding house for some Year 8 pupils. Boarding at Bromsgrove is very popular for children with parents in the Forces with extensive experience of the challenges faced by these youngsters, the boarding environment provides the support the children need to feel at home during their stay. This is true for every student at Bromsgrove School. Pastorally the School is very strong: there is always someone there to help, from boarding Houseparents and tutors to a residential matron and a buddy system for new joiners. We understand that starting a new School as a boarder can be daunting, but our students soon get into the swing of life at Bromsgrove and we hope there is never a dull moment. The school offers a plethora of activities and sports to get involved in. Sport at Bromsgrove School offers something for everyone, whether a first team player or someone who just wants to play competitively at a lower level. Bromsgrove features regularly in the top 6 Schools nationally for sport, but we also offer a wide range of lunch time and afterschool clubs, as well as P.E lessons and afternoon games. The extracurricular activities programme is extensive and appealing; we encourage students to challenge themselves by trying something new or to extend themselves to the very best of their ability in their chosen area. CCF in particular is an integral part of the School and is very popular. CCF teaches children discipline, patience, team work, and allows everyone involved to learn new skills that they can take with them into the world. Dating back to before WWI, CCF has always been something the school is proud of. Our CCF team are extremely well equipped in qualifications and enthusiasm, providing camps and field days. The CCF team take students on tours, with the most recent one being the Battlefield tour in South Africa. We are very proud that this year already three students have been selected for either scholarships or onto the officer training programme at Sandhurst. Bromsgrove School is truly a wonderful place for your child to flourish.
O
n Thursday 20 Jan 22, Force Protection Training Flight (FPTF) in conjunction with FS Dye, 3FP Wg and Flt Lt Horsfield from the Air Land Integration Cell hosted Wg Cdr(Retd) Tim Jones as part of the RAF Regiment and RAF Armoured Car Companies 80/100 commemorations. Wg Cdr(Retd) Tim Jones recorded a podcast that recited the historic and contemporary RAF Regiment operational commitments and the unique nature of our missions and operational environments focussed on the RAF Regiments contribution to the Dhofar rebellion. He also spoke about his time as an RAF Regiment officer and his award of the Sultan of Oman’s Distinguished Service Medal for Gallantry during the Dhofar campaign of which, he was the sole
WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
RAF Regiment recipient of that honour. A fascinating insight into his time on Operations that had a very similar tone to our own recent deployments whereby it appears there are changes of kit and equipment but essentially the people, their attitude and comradery survives the test of time. Tim had also served at RAF High Wycombe during his time in the RAF Regiment in various staff officer roles when it was then known as Headquarters Strike Command.
Stn News
RAF Regiment 80th Anniversary
It was an absolute pleasure to host Wg Cdr(Retd) Tim Jones and the podcast will be available in the Autumn. Tim will also be unveiling a newly commissioned “Salah” painting at RAF Honington later in the year at the next Salah Flight phase 2 Graduation.
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Stn News
ISW TOP TABLE
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n the 3rd of March ISW personnel gathered at the Warrant Officer’s and SNCO’s Mess to celebrate the careers and service departure for several service personnel on the Wing. The event organised by Wycombe World’s very own editor A/Cpl Nick Koppanen, Sgt Kim Ackroyd and Cpl Curtis Beel consisted of a 3-course carvery, topped off by a port to the Queen. We heard leaving speeches from Daniel ‘Lips’ Phillips and Sqn Ldr Nick Bolan. Lips served 19 years as an ICT Technician, reaching the rank of Corporal before sadly leaving. He was gifted with a plaque, handed to him by his previous SNCO, FS Steven Monks who thanked him for his hard work. Sqn Ldr Bolan also spoke of his 17years in the RAF. Bolan began his career as a potential Pilot reaching Basic Fast Jet training. Sadly, his flying career was cut but he found his way in to the Eng Officer (CE) branch where he spent much of his time here at RAF High Wycombe but also a handful of unique overseas tours and postings such as Virginia Beach in the US. Bolan
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was well respected within the squadron and will be surely missed. We wish both the best of luck on Civvy Street! Awards were also handed out to D2X and to Networks for work carried out on station to allow Stn Personnel to operate from home during COVID. To wrap up the evening everyone moved through to the bar where Cpl Beel set up a karaoke area. The microphone didn’t rest the entire evening as we heard duos from WO Matt Williams & Sgt Julie Arms, and Sqn Ldr Nick Bolan & the Wing’s OC, Wg Cdr Jon McMahaon, plus many, many more!
This was the first real opportunity to have everyone in ISW gathered for an event post-COVID restrictions. It went off like a barn on fire and plans are already underway for more events later in the year. A special thanks to the CMC WO Linda Clark,
SWO WO Nicci Burdett, Mr Vice SAC Alfie Hepton, Mess Manager Ms Georgia Colby, the very courteous serving staff and the incredible Chef ’s. Without the support of all the above the event would not have been able to happen. On behalf of all the Wing, we thank you!
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ENHANCEMENT
PROJECT O n Saturday 15th January 2022 2 Brownies from 1st Walters Ash (RAF) Brownies and their leaders Pixie Owl and Snowy Owl, went on an adventure into the woods to find the Wise Old Owl ahead of making our Promise. Instead, they found families and personnel from across the station, that were volunteering to support the Chiltern Rangers and the National trust, in the Woodland Path Enhancement Project. A project to improve the path between 2 site Officers’ Mess and 1 site. What a great opportunity to uphold elements of the Brownie promise “To Serve my community and help other people.” Some of you may have fond memories of being a Girl Guide or indeed a Scout and the adventures and skills you develop from being involved. This was a fantastic opportunity for the Brownies to support a project which allowed them to develop Skills for their future, one of the current Girlguiding programme themes. The Brownies were able to use loppers to cut down branches and off shoots,
PADRE’S PONDERINGS –
A WELCOME
be guided to use saws to cut back larger branches and trunks from the path, then remove the cuttings ready to be put through the chipper machine. Being part of a national uniformed organisation such as Girlguiding and The Scout Association, provides great continuity for our young people and indeed adult volunteers. Being afforded the possibility of being able to meet on a unit allows these organisations to support our military families, not just in the UK but worldwide. If you would like to find out more about our uniformed organisations, please head to; www.girlguiding.org.uk or email Rebecca.bockettpugh100@mod.gov.uk Photos are owned by 1st Walter’s Ash RAF Brownies. Please do not reproduce or use without prior permission.
G
reetings to you all from your new Station Chaplain. My name is Andi Chapman and I come to you from RAF College Cranwell where I was stn chaplain which included being a OACTU/RAFOTA sqn padre as well. I’ve been in the service for 10 years and am most happy to be here with you all at RAF High Wycombe. I’ve arrived with my husband David, three dogs and 2 cats. We are both keen gardeners and are greatly looking forward to exploring the wonderful local countryside and most likely including a few village pubs. It is my hope that I get to meet as many of those who serve here, partners and family members as possible at different events (what a joy it is to think there may be events to attend now that Covid-19 appears to be less of a controlling factor) or even just meeting around the workplace. Please feel free to contact me should you wish or need to have a confidential conversation. I will always
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Community
WOODLAND PATH
make time for anyone who needs to have a pastoral chat over a tea or coffee, or a walk, which ever works best for you. As we all work together to deliver what we are called to do, it’s always worth remember the value and worth of who we are. Sometimes, we can feel less than what we are, and it is times like those that we all need a friendly person to come alongside us to be a companion on the journey. If that is you, I’d be delighted to meet with you and be that companion for a time. I look forward to meeting you soon. Andi (Stn Chaplain) Padre Andi can be contacted via: Ext: 4469 Mobile: 07966175085 call (24/7) or text (07001800 weekdays) Email: andrew. chapman107@mod.gov.uk WW: 15
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09/12/2020 13:26
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n the 11th of March 2022 a group of fortunate personnel here at RAF High Wycombe, from a wide range of ranks, ages and skiing abilities endeavoured in a Adventure Training opportunity to Val Thorens, the largest skiing resort in the world set out to better us by learning a new skill or to further strengthen any previous level of skiing. After a gruelling 17-hour bus journey we arrived in Val Thorens, greeted by endless crystal-clear blue skies and a gust of crisp mountain air. After dropping bags at our chalet for the week, Le Cheval Blanc, we quickly kitted ourselves before the afternoon rush. This left us the best part of the day to acclimatise and get used to the epic scenery. On the next morning we broke down our 21-person group in to smaller, more manageable teams each led by one of the 4 excellent skiing instructors provided: Blago, Mike, Smedge and Hugh. Each team started the week set out with a goal, whether that was to earn Ski Foundation 1, 2, or even work towards the 3rd and last foundation qualification.
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Blago led the strongest skiers of the group, mainly taking on black runs and really being tested to their limits, often covering over 40km each day! Then it was Mike who led the only group attacking SF2, where everyone was introduced to off-piste skiing, as well as learning the vital knowledge needed when in, or helping someone in an avalanche. Smedge was instructing a great team who already had some previous experience on mountains, but still had to learn and complete the SF1 syllabus. Last but not least, Hugh took the brave newbies. We all learned plenty of techniques from the basic plough turn, right up to more advanced skills such as carving, jumps and skiing backwards.
slopes which made for an incredible week at work. The bus journey home was sad. “I personally found this to be one of if not the best week of my life as I felt my skiing has come a long way and was also able to enjoy myself whilst doing so. The week included plenty of great group activities including skiing as part of a small group and being able to watch each other’s skiing improve and laugh at one another fall and crash into big heaps of snow – this seemed to happen to myself a lot!
In the evenings there was plenty of things to do and the accommodation was also very comfortable. As a whole this was a great experience to meet new people, strengthen various skills and have an enjoyable week. I think it’s a brilliant opportunity and would recommend it to anyone able to go. Obviously the most astounding part of this all was that it was all completely paid for by station! I would love to get the opportunity to go again.”
Sport
EXERCISE SKI VALOUR
– SAC Pickering
After an action-packed day of skiing the whole course would go out and enjoy the second-to-none nightlife both in the après ski bars on the slopes and in the town of Val Thorens. Some of our favourite spots were ‘Bar 360’, ‘café Snesko’, ‘Bowling’ and the famous ‘La Folie Douce’. Everyone brought all their energy on and off the
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It’s as easy as this You’ll be asked a few simple questions, incomings, outgoings, that kind of thing. It takes around 15 minutes. Then it’s an appointment with one of their impartial mortgage advisors. They take the time to understand what you’re looking for, before coming back with the most suitable option for you. They will then guide you through your mortgage journey. A mortgage is a loan secured against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
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PMGI Limited, trading as Forces Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: 55 Gracechurch Street, London, EC3V 0RL. Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited is an Appointed Representative of TenetConnect Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under reference FRN: 149826. Tenet Mortgage Solutions Limited is a company registered in England and Wales under company number: 09111571 and whose registered office is at 5 Lister Hill, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 5AZ. Calls to 03 numbers usually cost no more than to geographic numbers (01 or 02) and are usually included in call packages, please check with your phone company if they are included in your package. For your security, all calls are recorded any may be monitored.
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AN ULTRA RUN?
U
ltra-running has increased exponentially over the last 10 years and the RAF are looking into the sport with the aim of having it formally recognised by the UK Armed Forces Sports Board. For anyone that has never heard of ultra-running or would like to know more, then continue reading and if it sparks an interest please contact the undersigned. Many readers may be thinking what is ultra running? Strictly speaking, an ultra run is anything longer than a marathon (26.2 miles or 42.1 km). However, most ultra runs start at the 50 km (31 miles) distance and can go up to 100’s of km over multiple days and multiple terrains. The most common distances being 50 km, 100km and 100 miles. Having spoken to several people about my own ultra running experience I quite often get the comment of ‘There is no way I could run that far’ or ‘You are mad’ or ‘You must be super human’. Well, some of us may be mad but we are certainly not superhuman and very few ultra WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
runners actually ‘run’ the whole route. In fact, the average pace for an ultra runner across all age groups is around 14.30 min/mile1. Depending on how long you have at rest stops this is almost walking pace. Of course, there are individuals that go a lot faster and that is the great thing about ultra running, there is an event for all abilities. Sqn Ldr Alfred Hall talks about why he decided to take on an ultra run this year. “I’d seen Ultra runners and events but just thought they were an absolute flogging and not for me with my dodgy knees! A few years ago, I started parkrun and met people there who seemed like me and they explained more about it. At parkrun I manage 8-minute mile pace, but they do their ultras at 14-15 minute mile pace. I’ve tried that a few times and now really enjoy the pace which I manage by jogging a section then walking. Lockdown really helped and I noticed how much more I was enjoying being out at a slower pace”. The health benefits
of exercise are well documented and include improved physiological and psychological effects. But what makes ultra running different? As someone that has completed a variety of ultra events over the last 20 years (most recently being the 100km Thames Path Challenge last year) the biggest drive for me is the exhilaration I feel when I go over the finish line after being on my feet for over 15 hours. I personally don’t care about my time, it is the psychological challenge of finishing the event that attracts me – being able to push my body through the tiredness of the previous miles. The other plus is that I can eat chocolate without feeling guilty! The average person burns between 314-391 calories per hour at a brisk walking pace of 3.5mph and 606-755 calories per hour running at 5mph 3. So, for a 50km (31mile) event, that equates to around 2,800–3,500 and 3,700-4,600 calories respectively! All shapes, sizes and levels of fitness participate in ultra runs and with the right training
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EVER CONSIDERED DOING
you too can complete one. To put this into perspective, 544 people competed in the 100km Thames Path Challenge I did last year, and the first person came in at 09 hours 57 mins and the last person in 36 hours 14 mins. An ultra run is also a good way of raising money for charity. Last year's Thames Path Challenge raised nearly £1.5 million! An ultra run is a challenging event (it wouldn’t be worth doing it if it wasn’t!), but one that can give you an immense sense of achievement when you finish it whatever your ability. If ultra-running is something you would consider trying or you have any further questions, then please get in touch! CONTACT DETAILS: Sgt Caroline MaynardBurrows. Caroline.maynardburrows393@mod.gov.uk Cpl Thomas Phillips. Thomas.phillips113@ mod.gov.uk WW: 19
PEd FLT I
t has been a busy couple of months for the PEd Flight, with the easing of some restrictions allowing us to provide more to personnel on station.
EVENTS: CO’s Cup In October, the CO’s Cup resumed with a touch rugby tournament. 3 teams attended and played each other twice to determine who was the top of the table. In the end there was a tie between ‘Career Management’ and ‘SpOC’. They played in a deciding match, 3v3 with a golden try to secure the win. After some good build up play, SpOC scored to win the tournament. A mention also goes to ‘Team FDS’ for coming in third.
December saw the return of our Christmas Quiz for the CO’s Cup. 7 teams competed across a range of physical activities, challenges, and traditional quiz rounds. Rounds included: Squid Game’s red light/ green light, blind food and drink tasting, 2021 Pictionary, TV and entertainment questions, a potato race, Christmas questions, Tight flinging, sports, music, a picture round, and finished with a gingerbread man contest- who could recreate each member of the PEd Flight the best? The winning team was a combined team of Career Management and D&I. Look forward to more CO’s events next year including seated volleyball, dodgeball/ bench ball, tour de Wycombe, and UniHoc. To get your team involved email the PEd GMB. WW: 20
Santa Dash The Station Santa Dash took place on the 13th of December. The event was well attended with 22 Santas all running around a 2.5km/5km course to raise money for the RAFA- with moral encouragement from the Padre and Fire Section. There was also a Santa Run at Medmenham with 21 santas attending. Thank you for all that helped to organise and those who came to run.
will know him for his great circuits, in depth core and mobility sessions, and huge arms! We wish him all the best as he heads to Cyprus. SPORTS COMPS: MyZone In October, we ran a myzone challenge for gym users to compete at being the first to reach a 3000 MEP milestone in the month (Myzone Effort Points). The competition was fierce with 14 users managing to reach the milestone in the time frame. The first to the flag was Sqn Ldr David Cornick who achieved it in just 14 days (beating me by only half a day!). Cpl Dave Bill of the PEd Flight won the raffle from all those that achieved the 3000 mark. Well done to all who competed. Having a MyZone is a great way to track workouts, motivate yourself to workout, push yourself harder in the workout, and be social with other users. If you are interested in getting one, please speak to the PEd Flight.
FMS The gym started a programme aimed to improve the mobility of people on station. The programme started with a mobility screening using the FMS (Functional Mobility Screening) kit. This is a tool which can give a score to a person’s mobility after being scored on a total of 7 tests. After being given a score, gym users where then given a 6-week programme to improve on the areas of mobility that they were lacking in. They were then retested at the end of the 6-week period. If you would like to improve your mobility, please come to our core and mobility sessions on a Wed lunchtime or speak to a PTI about getting an FMS score. Goodbye to Ozzy In December we said goodbye to Cpl Lee Osborne (Ozzy) who has been a key part to the team since Spring 2020. Many
Football The Station football continues to train on a Monday and Wednesday, as well as competing in the league. Indoor Hockey 4 people from HWY took part in the RAF Interstation indoor hockey tournament as part of the combined HWY/HAL team. As last year’s champions we had high hopes but were knocked out in the semifinals by a new team from MOD Abbey wood. They were a strong team and went on to win the final against RAF Brize Norton. HADO E Sports continue to be popular at High Wycombe. The new HWY Esports Arena was opened by the Stn Cdr on 16 Dec 21. This was followed by a HADO tournament (virtual reality dodgeball). GYM TIPS: Use progressive overload When training it is important
to always aim to be progressing. This is how we get adaptations and over time become, stronger, more powerful and fitter. You won’t get a weight PB in every session, but improvements can be made with better form, an increase in time under tension, smaller rest periods, or an increase in reps or volume. Don’t get stuck in the same routine at the gym e.g. Doing 4 x 8 @ 60kg on the bench just because it is in your comfort zone. Push yourself and aim to improve. Even if you fail a set trying to progress, you are still getting gains!
Look after your nutrition Your nutrition throughout the day is just as important as the time you spend working out in the gym. Having good nutrition allows us to train harder, recover faster, and feel good about ourselves. It is important to find balance between enjoying ourselves and looking after our bodies. Below is an easy recipe I use to make a healthy alternative to a comforting meal. Protein Spaghetti Carbonara (for one) Ingredients: 4 slices turkey bacon 1 portion of spaghetti 1 egg 2 tbsp grated parmesan onions, mushrooms + veg of choice Method: Cook the spaghetti in boiling water and leave to the side, keeping half a cup of water too. Cook the chopped turkey bacon and veg in a pan with 1 cal spray, then add the spaghetti and water. In a separate bowl whisk together the egg and parmesan (add WYCOMBE WORLD ISSUE 1 2022
Nutrition: 440 Cals/48g Carbs/51g Protein/11g Fat (4g saturated)
BSW
some oregano too if you like). Take the pan off the heat and slowly add the egg/cheese mix. Stir continually until it coats the pasta and makes a sauce.
HEALTH AND WELLBEING: Physical activity is just one way we can look after our own health and wellbeing. There are plenty more activities that can make us feel better. This can start as something small that may take 5 mins out of your day. Take a look at our challenge below- to do one small thing each day in January that looks after our health and improves mood. TIMETABLE: We are excited to announce our new timetable as of Nov 21. This includes an additional CrossFit session, a Pre/Post Natal class, lunchtime circuits, and the return of evening spin classes.
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