Wycombe Spring 2023

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

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

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

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

We also provide relationship counselling and mediation support.

FANCY A HOLIDAY ON YORKSHIRE’S EAST COAST?

welfare break gave us the quality time we needed as a family.”

- Al Dyer

Our new holiday home is now available for breaks all year round.

Why not apply to stay in our new holiday home for serving RAF personnel and RAF veterans? 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 suitable for wheelchair access, along with a disabled friendly bathroom. A real home from home, with everything you need for a memorable holiday.

To find out more and apply, visit: rafbf.org/thefolly CALL 0300 102 1919

Wycombe World

Foreword Station Commander’s

Wing Commander Dennis

Editorial Team

OIC: Fg Off Beth Dunning, ext 3019

Editor: Cpl Sam Butler, ext 4101

Mailbox: HWY-EditorWycombeWorld@ mod.gov.uk

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All articles are to be in ‘Word’ format with separate JPEG images.

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Submission Deadline...

All articles for the Issue 2 2023 Edition to be sent to the Editor no later than May 2023 to samuel.butler105@mod. gov.uk. Please send all articles as a word document with all photos and images imbedded with in the article.

As the well-known song lyric goes –‘Spring is in the air’, so I hope this finds you all well, looking forward to longer, warmer days and enjoying the new life that is all around us as the trees come into blossom and the bulbs begin to flower.

Certainly, it is a time to look forward, but I also want to take a moment to reflect. To reflect firstly on those personnel from RAF High Wycombe who were recognised in the New

Year’s Honours List, – many congratulations to you all and to the friends and families who have supported you and share in your success.  Also, to acknowledge the significance and strength of our community recognised, for example, by the recent visit by Lt Col David Aaron of the Military Provost Guard Service to the Nepalese Heritage Centre. A visit by the Right. Honourable Dr Andrew Murrison MP, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, to meet those who provide and benefit from wrap-around childcare on the Station, was another notable example of our community in action. In terms of our wider support to Defence, the Station has hosted numerous visits, including 56 Defence Attaches from nations around the world to receive an update on the Royal Air Force.

Looking forward, the Coronation of our new King,

His Majesty Charles III, will soon be upon us.  Personnel in HQ Air are engaged in the planning for what will be a spectacular national event on Saturday 6th May, with the Royal Air Force fully represented on the ground and in the air. The Station will mark this historic occasion with an all-ranks families’ barbeque planned for Friday 5th May, held in the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants Mess. Please do keep an eye out for details and put your names down for what will be a great celebration.

As ever, I know that the success of the Station depends on so many people playing their part; regulars, reserves, civil servants, contractors, and perhaps most importantly, the families who do so much to support us all. Thank you and very best wishes to you all.

Non Sibi

Cpl Sam Butler

Spring famously brings the promise of new life and a blessed relief from winter darkness. More importantly, it also brings another quality issue of the award winning (award pending) Wycombe World!

We have a bumper issue for you this quarter with the quality of coverage being significantly improved by the addition of a new reporter – Mr Laurence Parker. I particularly recommend his rather moving article on Padre Andi’s first year in post as well as his story about Nikki and Alli and their role in creating the Cancer Defence Support Network.

For those of you wishing to get a sporting fix, have a read of Cpl Izzie Pettit’s tales of running hardships followed by the Cross-Country Running Club’s further tales of running super hardships. Being honest, as a summer-time power walker, just reading the term “ultra-marathon” has me breaking out in a cold sweat and reaching for an isotopic energy drink.

It has also been a good few months for fund raising, with

the Thrift Shop raising £5,000 for the charity Hounds for Heroes, and the RAF Digital Team raising money for the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity.

As always, should you take part in an action of daring doo, please write up your experience and send it to us! We love to hear about all the wonderful things taking place at RAF High Wycombe and the likelihood of you being “slabbed” by your coworkers is negligible. Here’s to a wonderful summer and another issue of the Wycombe World!

Vox Pop

07 Ken Ivory Story

11 Hound for Heroes

13 One Year on with Padre Andi Chapman

16 World Cancer Day - Uniting Voices and Taking Action

17 Heritage Centre

19 Izzie Pettit - How a Love of Horses Led to the Birth of a Triathlete

20 The Monopoly Challenge

20 RAF Digital Team Charity Challenge

21 AS1 Eldridge receives the Chauhan Award

22 RAF High Wycombe Cross Country Team

B r i m m i n g w i t h h i s t o r y , D a n e s f i e l d H o u s e w a s o n c e h o m e t o t h e I n t e l l i g e n c e S e c t i o n o f t h e R A F , k n o w n a s R A F M e d m e n h a m . T h e u n i t s p e c i a l i z e d i n p h o t o g r a p h i c i n t e l l i g e n c e a n d w a s t h e ‘ e y e s ’ t o B l e t c h l e y P a r k ’ s ‘ e a r s ’

C o m e a n d j o i n a n i n t i m a t e e v e n i n g w i t h T a y l o r D o w n i n g . T a y l o r i s a h i s t o r i a n , b e s t s e l l i n g a u t h o r a n d a w a r d w i n n i n g t e l e v i s i o n p r o d u c e r H i s b o o k ‘ S p i e s i n t h e S k y ’ w a s h a i l e d a s u n c o v e r i n g a w h o l e n e w a s p e c t o f t h e s e c r e t i n t e l l i g e n c e w a r . T h r o u g h s t o r i e s a r o u n d t h e i n t e r p r e t a t i o n o f a s m a l l n u m b e r o f k e y a e r i a l p h o t o g r a p h s , T a y l o r w i l l t e l l t h e r e m a r k a b l e s t o r y o f h o w t h e t e a m s a t R A F M e d m e n h a m c r e a t e d a n e w s c i e n c e o f p h o t o i n t e l l i g e n c e . H e w i l l r e v e a l h o w i m p o r t a n t t h i s w a s i n w i n n i n g t h e w a r

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• M i n i e x h i b i t i o n o f t h e p h o t o g r a p h i c i n t e r p r e t a t i o n u n i t

• £ 8 5 p e r p e r s o n

T e r m s a n d c o n d i t i o n s :

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KEN IVORY STORY

Many could run a mile, perhaps even a marathon. But 100 miles? This is a different class and takes a special type of will. Sergeant Ken Ivory has that will. I caught up with the athletic sergeant who has spent a lifetime in the pursuit of his passion, running, and raising thousands of pounds for Forces charity, SSAFA along the way.

During school years Ken realised he had a talent for running, competing in the 100, 200, 400 & 800m races and making decent times. Competing in county championships helped push him to take on longer distances. It was only when joining the military in his 20s after a civilian career in Lloyds Bank & Tescos that the joy of running was rekindled. A military career demanded a greater degree of fitness and with more time to run, cross country events became more appealing. He had been well and truly bitten by the bug and in his words, “loved it!” The greater his enthusiasm,

the longer the distances. Once he and a friend decided to do a 45-mile stretch “as a bit of a laugh…all in one hit!”

Another time he ran 100 miles from Hull to Waddington in 27 hours “to get to know the guys he was working with a little better.” Some would never contemplate this in their lives, but it did not phase Ken. And to understand his actions, you must understand the man.

The old adage ‘still waters run deep’ comes to mind when I met Ken. Quiet, unassuming and relaxed, his demeanour

changes when he talks about running. He becomes animated and empowered. This is his territory, and he knows it. Discipline – in mind and spirit is all important.

So, how do you mentally train yourself to do a long-distance run? For Ken, be it 20 miles or 100 it is all about breaking it down. The longer races have check points along the route and you can mentally calculate the distance between each. The South Downs 100, for example, is particularly hilly so the course can be broken down by setting each major hill as a marker.

“There is no hard and fast rule…it is just a way of breaking down the distance. Once you get to the next checkpoint you reset,” commented Ken. Each runner will inevitably hit that ‘invisible wall.’ It is that point where pain and fatigue set in, and you feel

you cannot go on. “In races like the 100-milers you must acknowledge that you are going to have a bad patch. This is the bit you have to work through. It is so easy to give up and adopt the ‘I won’t bother’ attitude.” For Ken, having a focus takes his mind off any physical pain he may endure.

“I like to mull over what is happening in my life. It is a great way to destress. I don’t use headphones...I like to listen to and watch nature and wildlife,” said the dedicated father of three.

You may be thinking, what is that magic ingredient that spurs a runner on to reach that final hurdle and touch that finish line? For Ken, and many other seasoned runners it is down to one word: Challenge.

“I know I am never going to win these races. I do it for my own challenge. I like to do different challenges. I have done the London Marathon 7 times since 2006. I have done mountain races, flat ones, coastline runs. The Mont Blanc took me 9 hrs,” said the sergeant in a manner that would leave many breathless.

Ken is restless. I get the impression that his mind is forever chasing that next big race, that next big goliath to slay. With such single-

Stn News

“Most of the things I have done are just for the challenge!”

minded determination, it can often be difficult for family to understand the psyche of such impassioned people. His wife, Tracey has recently become involved in running and can share in his experience. “You cannot understand someone who has just gone through a 100-mile race if you have not done any running,” said the sergeant,

Ken in 2013, you are not deemed a true ‘Comrade’ unless you have completed the ‘Up’ run and the ‘Down’ run. Televised over 13 hours, the national event sees competitors run the distance in 12 hours or less or risk disqualification. Over 20,000 runners compete annually for the glory of doing this arduous race with Ken having run a respectable 8hrs 26mins and just over 9 hours on a couple of other occasions.

Though it has been a large part of Ken’s life, he does not feel he has sacrificed anything major in the pursuit of his sporting goals – except maybe not drinking or going out as much in his teenage years!

Ken’s toughest race is the Malayan Marathon that took 6.5 hours to complete over difficult terrain and exhausting heat –

To secure a place in the Comrades, competitors need to have run at least one 5-hour ultra-marathons. A normal marathon is 26.2 miles long, ultra-marathons are 27 miles and over. For those who complete 100 ultramarathons a special status awaits; membership of the coveted ‘100 Marathon Club.’ The steely sergeant is well on the way to being its next member. He has completed 70 so far, with 16 marathons lined up for this year and another 15 peppered through 2024. This is the dream before he finally leaves the RAF next year after 30 years’ service. I already knew the answer, but had to ask: “Will you make it?” “Yes!” was the quick reply. And I believe him.

His favourite? Undoubtedly it is the South African Comrades Marathon –considered by many to be the oldest ultra-marathon in the world. Competitors run a road race of 56 miles. Last run by

Although he runs for the love of the sport, it has run in tandem with his life-long affinity to SSAFA, the charity that supports the armed forces, both serving and veterans. Since 1990 and even before he joined the military, Ken has held the

post of Honorary Treasurer, quietly raising thousands for this worthy cause. “It is just something I do,” said the sergeant, modestly.

With the inevitable march of time, age has crept up and the need to readjust. Ken is sanguine about the fact times have got a little slower. But the plucky sergeant has the tenacity of a man half his age. The next challenge is to pass the Dark Blue Fitness Test. Involving sit-ups, press-ups and multi-stage fitness, Dark Blue is the gold standard of military tests. “Not many have the Dark Blue. There would be immense pride for me in achieving that,” commented Ken in his very humble manner. The other big challenge on the agenda now is 3 marathons in 3 days in October, finishing at Land’s End.

Is there any advice to someone wanting to take up running?

Running, for the reserved yet assured Ken is not for the glory of winning. It is for something far simpler;

“I feel better for doing it. That is the big motivation. It breaks up your day.”

The dedicated runner has a cabinet full of medals to prove his staying power, but I suspect there is room for more from pursuits other than running. Skydiving and wing walking hold a particular fascination now and I get the feeling that, should these be sampled, he will excel just as he has with pounding the roads. This is a man who will never stand still. There will always be that next big mountain to conquer.

“If they run, they have a better understanding of what you are going through.”

“going downhill is not as easy as many people think!”

“Start small, with a 5k run, build up the distances and get fit.”

HOUNDS FOR HEROES

RAF High Wycombe Thrift Shop raises £5,000 for Hounds for Heroes.

RAF High Wycombe’s Thrift Shop, a charity that sells items on behalf of its customer’s and keeps a percentage for donations, has raised £5,000 over the past two years for the renowned charity - Hounds for Heroes. As a thank you, the next puppy that the charity undertakes for training will be named by the RAF High Wycombe Thrift Shop after it ran a naming competition within the local community.

Hounds for Heroes offer specially trained assistance dogs to disabled HM Armed Forces and Emergency Services personnel. The dogs, which can take up to two years to train, are a major support to injured personnel. For example, if the person has no arms, the hounds can put keys and pens in mouths. If paralysed, they can help move limbs around.

Allen Parton, the founder and vice-chairman of Hounds for Heroes attended a special gathering on 15 March 2023 at RAF High Wycombe to accept the cheque on behalf of the charity. Allen, a Gulf War veteran spent five years at Headley Court (the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre) after sustaining life changing injuries. He started the charity 12 years ago and his first dog, Endal, “brought me back to my family and gave me a quality of life,” said a clearly emotional Allen. For his efforts in saving Allen after a hit-an-run accident, Endal was awarded the Dickin Medal, also known as the animal Victoria Cross. The charity founder went onto say, “Dogs can take away a lot of the pain and anger that an injured person may feel. It is about ability, not disability, solutions not problems.”

Lunch was provided at the Officer’s Mess attended by Allen, his current Labrador named ET, members of his charity, volunteers of the Thrift Shop, event organiser Wg Cdr Stowers and representing the Station Commander, Sqn Ldr Mepham-Stone.

The RAF High Wycombe Thrift Shop has been part of the local community for several decades and is open to both the military and civilian community. The shop is run by a team of very loyal and friendly volunteers who take great pride in both the service they provide to their community and for the money they raise for charitable causes each year. The shop is open 09001300 on Wednesdays (term time only) and is situated just before the entrance to RAF High Wycombe

3 Site - new customers are always welcome.

To find out more about the Hounds for Heroes charity, or to donate, please go to www.houndsforheroes.com

RAF Mags Photo Competition

Winner of the competition: Mike Gaukwin

Winning image: Indian Mirages taxiing out for a Cobra Warrior exercise at RAF Waddington.

One Year On with Padre Andi Chapman

Have you ever visited the Padre’s office? If not, you should. There is this overwhelming sense of calm. It is cool, but not cold. Warm without being hot. A sanctuary from the hub bub of life. It feels safe and mirrors its occupant perfectly. I am here to meet Padre Andi (“Just Andi will do”), a member of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, who rejects the need for titles and prefers to live humbly in true St Francis fashion. He was in a relaxed mood, and I was instantly at ease. His voice goes with his occupation – soothing, with the soft rhythm of a Rolls Royce engine. It has been a year since Andi first came to High Wycombe – a posting he initially said no to!

“I was asked to come here. I had wanted to go north, to a place that had aeroplanes and helicopters, but I have never said no to a place before, so here I came,” said the Padre, truthfully.

As with any new assignment, I was keen to see if there were any expectations from the new Padre. The covid whirlwind had recently subsided.

“I thought I was coming to a Station that possibly did not know what it was anymore. I had to find out what the new normal was after so much upheaval.”

Andi knew that he had huge shoes to fill after the departure of the previous Padre, Chrissy. He was not only a man, but a gay man which added a whole new dimension. He had become a Christian at fifteen and had his sense of calling in his teenage years. “The difficulty for me was that I was openly gay and that was going to be a challenge. It still is,” said Andi with a tinge of sorrow. The death of his grandmother, who had always been a strong believer, cemented both his faith and his direction to a life dedicated to God’s work.

High Wycombe held new beginnings, none more so

than getting to know a new congregation. Just over twenty-five people would normally attend church –many eager to come back after services conducted on Zoom. But after one fateful Easter Sunday everything changed. A chance comment about Andi’s partner, David, caused some consternation and after a Christian Camp away from Station many did not come back to the church. It dwindled to six attendees. Though not overt about his sexuality, Andi did not hide it either. “I am who I am,” said the Padre, proudly. Regular Sunday worship on Station ceased thereafter, with some continuing at the local church at Bradenham and West Wycombe.

I felt uncomfortable for Andi and the situation, and for someone who is just trying to do a job. But I didn’t feel sorry for him. He would hate that. He is a realist and I found that inspiring. “I came into the church with my eyes wide open knowing the church was not supportive of LGBTQ+ people. Knowing the creature I was coming into I knew it was not going to bother me,” he said, assuredly. His resilience and candour I found really refreshing. I got the impression that it would take something bigger than this to dampen his resolve. The recent ruling by the General Synod of the blessing of same sex marriage, is, for Andi a step in the right direction. “But it is just that…a step. I do not feel that I (as a gay person) am treated with respect or dignity. In the main I will be a thorn in the side of the church, and they recognise that,” said a resigned, yet defiant Padre.

A self-confessed liberal in many respects, Andi believes that the same cannot be said of the church as a whole. But it is his liberality and easygoing nature that has seen the fun-loving Padre make many new friends. He counts

working with the PS, SSAFA, Community Support and HIVE as a particular high point of his first year, together with seeing the Station evolve post Covid. “We as a team have different roles…but we are all on the same journey…. to make a difference,” commented the Padre.

With the highs comes the inevitable lows. He has seen unhappiness amongst his flock which can have a negative influence, but his own coping mechanism sees him through tough times. Simply walking home from work allows him to disconnect from the job, taking in the countryside and appreciating God’s creations. It also helps his work on a master’s thesis entitled “Who Cares for the Military Chaplain?”. Currently there is no formal structure set out. However, his own partner, David, is supportive and very much the ‘Ying’ to Andi’s ‘Yang.’ But they just work, which gives the Padre an enormous chuckle. At his best around people, the committed clergyman once went on a retreat with no one for miles around. He found it hard and realised that the hermit’s life was not for him!

So, one year on, what has the man who dares to be different (“being openly gay often tests the waters quite a lot”) learned about himself? He believes being present with people is important, as is listening and being visible. “One of the most useful tools that I learnt to use is humility. Knowing that my position in the Airforce does not matter and it is my role of chaplain that does. I have learned more here than in any other unit. This is partly because historically it would have been AS1s and corporals coming into my office. Now it is Sqn Ldr, Wg Cdrs, Gp Capts. Regardless of job role, life happens to them regardless of age.” When it comes to work, Andi is a man who does not make plans. He has hopes.

One is to fully establish a multi-faith prayer room to act as a sanctuary from the craziness of the world. The other hope is a simple one; to administer to people in need, supporting them when they are most require help. Although a confidante to anyone who requires help, he is clear on what assistance he offers. “I try and avoid giving advice. I try to get people to think about what options they have - aiding people to get there on their own. I act as a guide. I cannot be in that person’s shoes. I can only come to it from my viewpoint. All I can try to do is understand and be empathetic, not sympathetic.” Andi’s belief in the Lord is unshakeable, believing that his primary calling is to God, secondary to the church and this colours a lot of how he feels and behaves. In his own words he could have opted for an easier life, not becoming a member of the clergy and instead continuing to work for BT after university. But I get the sense that easy is not Andi’s way. He has faced homophobia head on and battled prejudice, but proudly wears the emblem of the rainbow flag with as much conviction and tenacity as he does the clerical collar.

I admire Andi’s honesty, not holding back, telling it as it is. When all seems hopeless it is good to know that there is a voice out there willing to lift your spirits. The mounted saying on the Padre’s wall brings together the man and the mission perfectly; When you need me but do not want me, then I must stay. When you want me but no longer need me, I have to go.

To contact the Padre please go to RAF High Wycombe Chaplaincy (sharepoint.com)

What is the probate process and how long does it take?

Dealing with the death of a family member or close friend is always difficult for those involved, having to deal with the daunting task of probate doesn’t make the circumstances any easier.

Whether you are appointed as the executor or administrator in the Will there are some steps you will need to follow. Karen Woodison, Partner in the Wills, Trusts & Probate team at Blaser Mills Law outlines key steps in the probate process.

1. Identify if there is a Will

If there is a Will in place, it will tell you who the executors are and who should be dealing with the estate. It will also outline any wishes and who is to benefit from the estate. If there is no Will there is an intestacy. You will need to look at the intestacy rules to figure out who should deal with the estate and those who will benefit from it.

2. Outline the assets and liabilities

Once you have confirmed who is dealing with the estate the next steps will be to gather information on all the assets and liabilities that are left behind by the deceased.

3. Apply for probate

The next step is to apply for probate. This involves completing an Inheritance Tax (IHT) Return and making an application to the probate registry and HMRC.

4. Collect all assets and pay any debt

Once you have obtained the grant of probate you will need to distribute the assets, prior to doing this you will need to settle any liabilities.

5. Distribute the estate

Make sure all of those who are noted in the Will receive their share of the estate. This task may be as simple as transferring money or may require a more complex process when involving land or property.

How long does the probate process take?

Provided there are no complications it usually takes between four to eight weeks to get a grant of probate after you’ve submitted the application. Once granted, the amount of time it takes to complete will depend on the complexity of the estate.

What are the biggest causes of a delayed application?

There can be various reasons why your probate process might be delayed, here are some of the most common:

Missing documents - Some applications are delayed due to missing documents that are required for granting probate. Send out all documents at the same time to reduce the risk of delays.

Missing IHT information - IHT is administered by the HMRC the IHT421 form will need to be sent to process the application.

Missing or tampered Wills - The process can also be delayed if there is a missing Will or one that has been tampered with. Tampering with a will can be seen as fraud.

Although each probate process follows the same general framework, no two probate matters unfold in the same way. In some instances, seeking help from a professional solicitor is the best solution to put your mind at ease.

Get in touch with Blaser Mills Law

At Blaser Mills Law we always offer a quality of service and breadth of expertise that allows our clients to face their challenges with confidence. To speak to one of our Wills, Trusts and Probate solicitors about a probate matter please contact Karen on 01494 781362 or email klw@blasermills.co.uk

About Karen

Karen is a Partner in the Wills, Trusts and Probate department and is based in the High Wycombe office.

She specialises in Wills, probate and the administration of estates, Lasting Powers of Attorney, including the registration process, and Court of Protection applications. She also advises on estate planning, inheritance tax and Capital Gains tax issues.

Karen communicates with her clients in a friendly and approachable way and is happy to see clients at home, in a hospital or residential home.

For more information, visit: blasermills.co.uk

ONLINE AUCTION’S IN PIDDINGTON, HIGH WYCOMBE.

We took a good look at our lives during Covid-19, evaluating our passions, strengths and expertise. With the support of our families and friends we gathered together financial and practical resources to establish “Badgers Auctions Ltd”, online auction’s every weekend, with a friendly & welcoming atmosphere! We are promoting a strong environmental ethos for re-use and up-cycling and discovering the value in good quality lot items!

Services we provide:

General Auctioneers, Valuations, House & Garage Clearances and Probate services.

DROP OFF

MONDAY and TUESDAY: 9am to 5pm

WEDNESDAY: 9am - 12noon

Use these days to drop off your entries for the following Sunday’s auction.

AUCTION OPENING

SATURDAY VIEWING: 10am - 4pm

CLOSED

THURSDAY, FRIDAY and SUNDAY: Closed to the public

Or call us for more info: 01494 880495 or 07904339160

TAKE COMMAND OF YOUR CAREER

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

What’s stopping you?

Unit 12, North’s Estate, Old Oxford Rd, Piddington, High Wycombe HP14 3BE

WORLD CANCER DAYUNITING VOICES AND TAKING ACTION

Cancer Day is held on 4 February every year to raise awareness, improve education and to ensure cancer treatment and care is equitable for all. The theme for this year is Uniting Voices and taking action.

I recently met two women who have done just that! Nikki had worked for the Civil Service for less than a year before receiving the news that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, prepandemic. Treatment began that summer. In trying to find what additional support was available through MOD Policies, Nikki quickly realised that there was a complete lack of information for those in Defence affected by cancer. “If I find something is not working, and it is important to me, I will do something about it” said an impassioned Nikki.

So began Nikki’s journey. Forthright, and with a stoicism that belies her character, Nikki took her first step. “When I was diagnosed, I did not cry. People at work cried. I did not. I was not worried about it. When I was having treatment and the situation was more difficult than what I had first anticipated, not helped by in lockdown, I felt unsupported [by Policy], and I didn’t know where to go. I started searching on Defnet…and was there for hours. All I could find was a link to Macmillan.”

Nikki’s life changed when she heard about the Cross Government Cancer Support Group and joined one of their meetings. Another person on the call was trying to set up a support network and she got in touch. “I had no idea how to set up a network, what to do, what to call it, permissions etc,” said Nikki. Despite this, through perseverance, the fledgling Defence Cancer Support Network was

created by the end of 2021. World Cancer Day was a whisper away and Network took the decision to launch even though they were not 100% ready.

Fellow Civil Servant, Alli, had come on board in early 2021. “I had a different journey to Nikki. My leg suddenly became swollen overnight. And it was only after an MRI Scan that it was discovered I had a rare form of sarcoma growing across my psoas muscle which had wrapped itself around veins and nerves. As a result, I have limited use of my right leg, but I survived it and am here to tell the tale,” said a clearly emotional Alli.

Bonded by adversity but united in their determination, the affection that these remarkable women have for each other is palpable.

The purpose of the Defence Cancer Support Network is wide ranging, but primarily it is an aid that offers a signpost for help. “We provide a door for people to go through that says ‘yes, there is a person prepared to give you some time.’ We will stand with you ‘shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart’. We don’t know what you have been going through, but we have been through something similar,” said Nikki. Nikki & Alli, who work with other strong-minded women, find laughter a great stress reliever. Both clearly feed off each other, happily finishing each other’s sentences but respecting one another’s point of view.

The Support Network is going places, and both are in buoyant mood for its future. A cancer support café has been set up in Scotland, a buddy system is being implemented, and guest speakers are invited to talk on a wide variety of topics. There is a multi-

user email address and a sharepoint page. From just a small committee of four there are now over forty network members with twenty to thirty people attending the monthly get-togethers. The goal is to be on the front of Defnet and the momentum is clearly with them to continue making those vital connections.

The Network is a virtually based, closed group, but new members are always welcomed. A safe space if offered for anyone to talk about how cancer has affected their lives. It could be a family member, a friend, a co-worker or a line manager who is just looking for advice.

“We have cancer of the month…sounds like a flavour of the month,” joked Nikki. “But it is really about cancer awareness, giving out information and promoting discussion.”

It is easy to get swept along in Nikki and Alli’s enthusiasm. The cloak of pessimism and negativity does not sit well on either ladies’ shoulders. Neither find talking about cancer emotionally draining. “No, I find it uplifting and energising. It is helping me personally and the person affected,” said Nikki, joyfully. This is echoed by Alli; “You live that experience that is super traumatic. But if you can help one person, even if just a signpost, it feels very comforting.” You may be thinking, what motivates these women each day to keep going? There was no hesitation from Nikki.

“Whatever I am doing at work, home or with charity it is adding value. Finding the joy in each day.”

Alli reflected on loss, and the joy of family to find her motivational strength. “My perspective changed.

There was a high risk I would lose my life, let alone never walk again. That of course changes your outlook. Not all is positive. I still grieve the loss of the full use of my body. But I think my mindset before and after the experiences are quite different. I don’t think I quite realised before my surgery how much my husband meant to me. He was the one who took it all on and I realised what an incredible human being he was.”Staggeringly, one in two people will contract cancer at some point in their lives. If your life or someone that you know has been affected by Cancer, the Defence Cancer Support Network is a beacon of hope. “We will find time to have a call with you and find out where you are. If you don’t know where to go, we can signpost.”

We meet thousands of people in our lifetime. Some you remember, some you forget. Some make you glad to be alive and inspire you to make a difference, however small that may be. Nikki and Alli are these people. It takes enormous courage to talk about personal adversity in the hope that it may help other people. In difficult times it is a comfort to know that there is a helping hand here to support. Everyone needs a Nikki and an Alli in their lives. And they are right here.

The Defence Cancer Support Network can be reached at - Defence Cancer Support Network (sharepoint.com) or email People-DCSN@MOD. gov.uk

HERITAGE CENTRE

Nepalese Purification Ceremony.

In the July of last year RAF High Wycombe officially opened The Nepalese Heritage Centre in a blaze of colour and joy. As a meeting place for contemplation and prayer, it reflects the high regard that the RAF base hold their Nepalese community. Traditional arts and crafts were made and donated by the Nepalese families, as well as other contributors, to give thanks. But before the Centre could be used for prayer and meditation, a Purification Ceremony for the gifts was required.

signify bringing light into your life, while milk, rice and sauces are sprinkled over effigies of Buddhist and Hindu gods to offer thanks. The congregation pray for the three powers of physical health, wealth, and knowledge. At the close of the ceremony the shrine, which points west, is offered flowers and grasses as a final act of thanks and gratitude. With purification complete, meditation and prayer can now commence.

The invited guests were warmly welcomed by the

MPGS Lt Col David Aaron visits the Heritage Centre.

The SO1 of the Military Provost Guard Service (MPGS), Lt Col David Aaron and SO3 MPGS Capt Toby Wood, were welcomed to RAF High Wycombe by Station Commander, Wing Commander Dennis, on a special visit to highlight the benefit to both Station and the Nepalese community of the multi-cultural Heritage Centre. Opened in the summer of 2022, the Centre is used for festivities, to preserve cultural heritage and as a sacred place of worship. Sgt Gurung gave a detailed brief to the CoC on how the Centre came about together with a rundown of how it has been used since opening.

RAF High Wycombe is the first Station in the country to have a Nepalese Community Heritage Centre.

A clearly impressed Lt Col Aaron commented “prior to the opening, people had to travel down to Winchester to celebrate religious holidays and festivals. Once word gets out and people see the success of initiatives like this then I am sure there will be other opportunities for other locations to establish them.”

Rounding off the visit, the guests were treated to a sumptuous curry lunch at the Oakeshott Centre.

In this traditional ceremony, a Hindu Pandit Guru or ‘Pujari’ (priest) is called upon to perform a cleansing of the shrine and gifts through prayer and song. The Guru, Shivachandra Niraula from the Queens Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR) in Aldershot, is a fourth generation Guru who can date his family’s service back to 1890. During the ceremony candles are lit on the shrine to

Guru and members of the Nepalese community on base in traditional dress, before being offered sumptuous Nepalese food and lively conversation.

Godstowe is a happy and thriving Prep School for girls aged 7-13, approximately a third of whom are boarders. We also have a lovely Pre-Prep and Nursery for girls and boys aged 3 to 7. Setting the highest possible standards in all aspects of our provision the aim is to send happy, confident and successful girls on to their chosen senior schools.

Godstowe widely celebrates over a hundred years of success and history and as a non-selective school, together we achieve outstanding results and the right individual outcomes for all pupils in our care. Looking to the future, we have a fresh and modern outlook whilst cherishing our long-established school traditions and values and these make our school unique.

On touring and visiting the 12-acre school grounds a welcome awaits you and a chance to experience the inspiring and immersive learning opportunities on offer every day. There are around 90 lunchtime and after school clubs and activities running every week to inspire a range of talents and interests. Excellence in the Arts, Sports, Drama and Music is central to our success and the local and international trips schedule is ever growing and much loved.

Walking into classrooms, lessons are imaginative, bespoke and of a high quality and where true wellbeing is valued above all. Each girl is seen and known as an individual and our dedicated and experienced teaching and pastoral team are exceptional. Our young learners are guided to think broadly, think deeply and make connections. With a strong focus on wraparound care and a sense of fair play, the pupils at Godstowe are warm, collaborative, healthily competitive and very good company!

The chance for our girls to stay until Year 8 as either full or flexi boarders or day girls, allows them all the chance to enjoy an exceptional final two years where they can develop and grow their leadership skills, their friendships and their confidence for all that life beyond Godstowe has to offer.

Our alumni speak with such enthusiasm about their time at the school, their successes, the confidence they gained and the friendships for life that they made. Speaking to many of our Heads in Senior Schools, our Godstowe leavers are widely acknowledged for how well they are prepared, for the sense of citizenship and community spirit they bring with them and for the ability to simply embrace life and opportunity.

We are a family school where our parents are valued as much as our pupils and there are many opportunities for families to be involved in the ever growing and vibrant community events and celebrations on offer every term. We do work together as partners for the benefit of your children and our local and global charities and partnerships. Come and see what our school has to offer at our next Open Morning. Book your place on our website, www.godstowe.org.

IZZIE PETTIT - HOW A LOVE OF HORSES LED TO THE BIRTH OF A TRIATHLETE Sport

As she prepares her handover as Deputy OIC Running Club, Cpl Isabelle “Izzie” Pettit shares her reflections on another successful year for the Women’s Team, competing for Station in the Southern Services Cross Country League, and how her own journey started.

Many people will already know Izzie from her role in ISW (which she has held since arriving at RAF High Wycombe in 2019) although her career could have been very different had friends in the Reserves not encouraged her to join the RAF in the first place!

Whilst she had hoped to follow her passion for equine sports and working with horses (which had taken her to university in East Anglia), Izzie actually found herself drawn to the RAF rowing team. Because of her stature she was selected to cox the rowing boat, but this meant she had to find different ways to keep fit (as she spent most of her time shouting instead of actually rowing).

Like many people she found that running fitted well with her other commitments and her mum found a coach to help her develop the sport. Subsequently, she joined the Athletics club in Cambridge and began training for her first half-marathon.

Like most long-distance runners, Izzie found that she enjoyed the end of a run more than the experience! She also discovered the tendency to over-train - which is something she cautions against having experienced first-hand how that can happen. Her coach was a keen cyclist and introduced her to cycling and after that it seemed logical to add swimming to her roster. Before she knew it, Izzie found herself competing in triathlons.

Despite their reputation, Izzie is very keen to stress that anyone can do a triathlon and that the sport is very accessible. Whilst there is the perception of intense and horrifically long-winded endurance races, she started with sprint triathlons which

comprise of; a 400 metre swim, a 20 km cycle ride and a 5k run. When asked for advice on how to start with triathlons Izzie advised; “Don’t take yourself too seriously. Enjoy the taking part and live in the moment. Placing pressure on yourself is tempting but you lose the fun as a consequence”.

Like many runners, Izzie used the bigger events as a way to support the charities that are important to her. In 2014 she helped to raise £500 for the Parkinson Disease charity via the London Marathon. She has also completed the extraordinary cycle ride from Land’s End (the South-West corner of England) all the Way up to John O’Groats (Northern most Scotland) with her sister which raised £4,500 for the John Shaw Epilepsy charity.

It will surprise very few that Izzie is looking for a new challenge which is why she has volunteered for a tour with the RAF Mountain Rescue. She’s also mulling over the RAF’s inaugural Ultra run in June 2023. As her handover concludes, she is able to look back at time well

spent and a job well done. But what are the highlights?

“I absolutely love this area” she said, nodding to the local woods and the Buckinghamshire countryside, adding “even the hills!”

All the members of the Station Running Club wish Izzie well and welcome AS1 Phillipa Baxter as the new DOIC Running. Anyone wishing to learn more or to take part in running events should contact her or Sqn Ldr Alfie Hall.

RAF DIGITAL TEAM CHARITY PRESENTATION

RAF High Wycombe has a proud history of charity fundraising and the RAF Digital Team continue to keep this tradition alive. “Our charities committee has no permanent members, we come together as an organisation to orchestrate fund-raising events,” said Fg Off Bluer. “It gives the team a sense of identity and belonging when we give back to our community”.

Organising up to four events a year, any funds raised are split evenly between two nominated charities. This year, the RAF Digital Charities Committee has selected the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund. A recent charity auction raised nearly £1300 with just six weeks planning. Future events include a spinathon and another charity auction. The latest award to the Florence Nightingale Hospice in Aylesbury has a particular poignancy for the team.

Fg Off Bluer continued: “A long-serving and dedicated member of, the previously named, A6 RAF High Wycombe, was diagnosed with terminal bowl cancer in 2017. Before his passing, the Florence Nightingale Hospice was fundamental to the support given, not only the individual, but to his colleagues at RAF High Wycombe. It was our way of saying thank you for the help they gave him and his family”.

In a ceremony outside the main gates of RAF High Wycombe, Assistant Chief of Staff, RAF Digital, Air Commodore Wilson presented Bill Richards, Communities & Events Manager at the Florence Nightingale Hospice, with a cheque for £648.15.

Follow RAF High Wycombe on Twitter @RAFHighWycombe, Facebook – Raf High Wycombe and the RAF internet at https://raf.mod. uk/our-organisation/stations/ raf-high-wycombe/news/

THE MONOPOLY CHALLENGE

Having heard lots about the London Monopoly Challenge, service personnel from RAF High Wycombe were keen to try it out for themselves, writes Cpl Shane Sherwood.

Everyone has heard of Monopoly, but perhaps not the real-life variant where members of the air force race around London visiting monuments linked to Air Power. Like squares on the board, some monuments are worth more than others and those taking part had to analyse the task collectively before plotting a route which would win them the most points.

Shane’s team opted for staying above ground as much as possible to catch the chance and community chest challenges. In keeping with traditions of the game, he also made sure that he went to Mayfair and secured the highest street-value amount. Needing photographic evidence of each location and subsequent stand, there was also the added difficulty of winning extra points for photos which did not contain a bus, taxi or pigeon.

His team’s decision to minimise use of the underground resulted in a demonstration of physical robustness and mental resilience. On the one occasion that they did use the tube, they were greeted with a broken escalator and a spiral staircase with no fewer than 193 steps! Whilst impressed by a younger team member’s attempt at a ‘twosteps at a time’ approach, this proved unsustainable, providing a valuable lesson in pacing and literal burnout.

The location for lunch was perfect. The prestigious setting within the RAF Club was

fitting on all counts. Quiet, secluded and safe, whilst steeped in all of the history of the Royal Air Force. Of course, the teams barely talked to each other, remaining tactically astute and giving away very little about their methods of point collection.

He’s still unsure who actually won.

AS1 ELDRIDGE RECEIVES THE CHAUHAN AWARD

Flt Lt Rakesh Chauhan joined the RAF as an Intelligence Officer in 2007. On 26 April 2014, he tragically lost his life, along with 4 other Service Personnel, when the Lynx helicopter they were travelling on crashed during a sortie in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. A very talented intelligence professional, Flt Lt Chauhan positively influenced everyone he interacted with. He was passionate about the pursuit of academic endeavour, analytical excellence and the application of these intellectual qualities in a live operational environment. His other passion was enabling his peers and subordinates to achieve their own potential in this regard.

In his memory, the RAF Intelligence Profession presents the Chauhan Award to those who are

judged to have displayed Analytical Excellence and/or conspicuous Contribution to Operations over the previous year. The 2022 winner of the award was AS1 James Eldridge of UK Space Operations Centre, RAF High Wycombe. Having graduated phase 1&2 training under COVID restrictions, AS1 Eldridge threw himself into his first posting, conducting the majority of his space-related training under his own initiative via online-learning platforms. Subsequently, he was nominated for the award by his line management for his industry-leading work that helped define the UK military’s understanding of adversary activity.

The award ceremony took place at RAF High Wycombe Officers’ Mess where Air Commodore Bone presented him with the Chauhan trophy.

RAF HIGH WYCOMBE CROSS COUNTRY TEAM

Throughout the winter months a small team of RAF High Wycombe runners have taken part in bi-weekly cross-country races, all part of the Inter Station Southern Services Cross-Country League (SSCCL). For the females, this involves teams racing over 5-8km off-road courses, with the top 3 of each team gaining points based on their finishing position. For the males, this involves racing over 8-10km, with the top 4 scorers counting for team results. Over the course of the league individual scores are also tallied.

Last year the women’s team managed to compete at almost every race (a huge achievement in itself) and this consistent representation has led to success for the team this year, including individual podium places as well as taking home the Women’s Team trophy. Sqn Ldr Johanna “Jo” Johnson came home with overall second place (as well as a selection for the Inter services championships) and Sgt Chrissy Heerey came home as Female Veteran Champion, which is an exceptional performance and testimony to her commitment to the sport. Additionally, it is worth noting that none of this could have taken place without the hard work of Cpl Isabelle “Izzie” Pettit who has

juggled her day job, team management, individual training as well as competing.

The current cross-country season began in October and runs through to April, with fixtures taking place on Wednesday afternoons. These are a great opportunity for both new and experienced runners to get involved in a competitive (but supportive) league, suitable for all abilities. The main aim for the season is to get a full team at all events and to gain the maximum number of points. Whether you finish at the back of the field or the front, you will be contributing to the final score of the team. If you would be interested in joining the team (male or female), please contact AS1 Phillipa Baxter (phillipa.baxter101@ mod.gov.uk) to be added to the distribution list and we look forward to meeting you soon.

Team Member Sgt Chrissy Heerey

The Southern Services Cross Country League season for 2021/22 has ended with the Station once again taking top honours by runners from the women’s team. RAF High Wycombe runner Sgt Chrissy Heerey, who is SNCO F Gen and Ops in 11 Gp, was awarded the Veteran Women’s Trophy for her individual scores. Let’s dig into her

backstory just a little bit. Many of us reading the above will picture Chrissy as a lifelong sport personality who has dedicated their life to running, but actually Chrissy didn’t find her running prowess until after her mobilisation as an RAF Auxiliary (now RAF Reserve) in 2003. In fact, it was while training for a 3 Peaks Challenge in 2006 that she realised she was falling behind on the climbs so decided to do something about it. Her first competitive event was the Robin Hood Half Marathon in 2008, just before she completed one of several tours to Afghanistan. This eventually set her on track to complete the gruelling Abbot World Marathon Majors where competitors have to complete SIX full marathons. This took her all over the world, from London to Berlin, Boston, Chicago, New York and even Tokyo but the most memorable is undoubtedly Boston which she ran in 2013.

Sadly now infamous, Chrissy vividly remembers the Boston 2013 marathon, where, having completed her run, she was queuing to collect her finishers pack when the first explosion occurred less than hundred metres away. Those nearby reassured each other that it was celebratory cannons as part of the finishing ceremony

but she had heard enough explosions to know this was different. Fellow long-distance runners will know that your equipment is limited to shorts and a vest, so she is eternally grateful to a local shop that allowed her to call home and let at least one person know she was safe. Taking a positive view of the tragedy, she was deeply moved by the many messages of support and offering help that she and her family received. She attended the memorial service following the event and was honoured to be standing near US President Barack Obama when he gave his address.

Finish-Times are your passion when running even short distances and Chrissy was no different, setting herself a target of 4 hours to complete each Marathon. To this day she notes that her time in New York was 4 hours and 25 seconds (timed on her traditional wristwatch - no Garmin for this runner!). She was so irked by the 25 seconds that she later completed it again, annoyingly coming in at 4 hours, 1 minute and 56 seconds due to an illness directly beforehand.

When inducted into the ‘Marathon Majors Hall of Fame’ she was only one of 1,000 people to do so a phenomenal achievement.

The Oratory Prep School

The Oratory Prep is a leading independent Catholic day and boarding school for children aged 2 to 13 years. Boarding is an integral part of school life, providing a hugely popular, enjoyable, and enriching experience for children aged 7 upwards. We strive to create a ‘home away from home’ environment where children feel happy, secure, and part of a close-knit community.

Our Boarding House, located in the main school building, is made up of distinct areas for boys and girls, offering a selection of shared rooms where full-time, weekly, and flexi-boarders live together. Our friendly, familial atmosphere is made all the more richer because of the diverse mix of children from many nationalities. Boarders enjoy a full and varied calendar of activities and trips throughout the year, as well as making the most of our 65 acres of land and extensive facilities. On Saturdays, the children take part in our Saturday Enrichment Programme, followed by sports matches and time spent with friends including opportunities to stay with families of our day pupils. On Sundays, they enjoy various outings including visits to the cinema, ice skating, rock climbing, bowling, cultural trips, camping and so much more.

To find out more about boarding at The Oratory Prep School, please visit our website www.oratoryprep.co.uk or get in contact with our Registrar, Hannah Thomas, via h.thomas@oratoryprep.co.uk to book a personalised visit. Our next Whole School Open Morning will be Saturday 20th May.

Quote: “The staff are experts. I leave my children knowing that they will be stretched, supported and developed in every way possible. We consider ourselves very lucky to have found The Oratory Prep School and look forward to many more years of being part of such a caring and nurturing community.” Armed Forces Parent