Mainpoint The Official Magazine of RAF Halton Spring 2021
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Mainpoint
The Official Magazine of RAF Halton Spring 2021
S T2017
Mainpoint Spring AT ION SNIPPETS | COMMUNITY AND CHARITY | SPORTS
SUPPORTING SERVING AND
FORMER MEMBERS OF THE
RAF AND THEIR FAMILIES Is it time for a review of your Legal Affairs?
After my first career in the Army, I strongly recommend that
serving and retired military personnel consider having a
Dance classes in
professionally drawn up will prepared, and carry out planning
for their, and their family’s future. Due to my background, I
Weston Turville, Aston Clinton
understand many of the issues that you and your family may
be going through, with the various factors and demands
and Stoke Mandeville
of military life.
Classes start 19th April. All safety
• I am offering FREE ½ hour Consultations currently via
videocall to discuss any wills and estate planning questions or guidelines and processes being
concerns that may be on your mind – (later in the TCC when
Covid restrictions allow).
strictly followed and
available to view.
• I am pleased to hold a Registered Armed Forces Covenant
and provide a 10% discount for any legal advice I provide to Offering ballet, modern and tap classes to
all military personnel and their families, whether serving or
retired, and all non-military staff working at RAF Halton.
3+ years and adult classes,
new students welcome.
• I offer friendly, bespoke, specialist legal advice on wills,
estate & later life planning, succession planning, Contact us for more information
powers of attorney and related matters.
info@jolatusdance.co.uk - 07800 518654
If you would like to get in touch, please call me on
www.jolatusdance.co.uk - @jolatusdance
01296 415700 or email me at iain@wanstallconsulting.co.uk
or or visit my website www.wanstallconsulting.co.uk
Stephen Hearn
WE CAN HELP WITH
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XXXXX FamRel XXX x XXX.indd 4 24/02/2020 14:11
Contents Spring 2021
EDITOR'S
From The Editor
Editorial Team Station Commander’s Foreword
FOREWORD
Editor
Flt Lt Sarah Hindley
Tel: 01296 656666
Group Captain D Startup RAF STATION NEWS
Deputy Editor One Team, Training People for Defence 06 Tried and Tested At RAF Halton
Eleanor Tomlin 08 SATTS Support MACA In Merthyr Tydfil
W
10 RAF Regiment Put Through Their Paces
Picture Editor elcome to the first My huge thanks, as always,
10 Hidden Halton - Burnett Gym
Kate Parrott edition of Mainpoint to all contributors – without
Distribution
WELCOME EVERYBODY TO THE SPRING EDITION RTS
for 2021. Despite
the COVID-19 Lockdown
you the magazine would not
appear. However, I am sad to
Courtesy of the Central Registry
and Fire Section
OF MAINPOINT AND ONCE AGAIN MY THANKS curtailing so many station
activities, I am pleased to
say that another major part
of Mainpoint is soon to be
Photography Support
TO ALL THOSE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO 14
15
CAS Leadership Conference 2020
Talent Management Futures Associate
say that we have a magazine lost – Eleanor Tomlin, who has
Kate Parrott, Luka Waycott
& Greg Mandy
THIS EDITION. 15
16
SATT Holding Scheme
Graduation Round Up
packed with interesting
stories for you.
been producing the magazine
for two years, is moving on
Tel: 01296 656117 to pastures new at High
The vital role played by the Wycombe. Congratulations,
STATION SNIPPETS military in the COVID-19 Eleanor, on your promotion!
T
Contact Us:
HAL-Mainpoint@mod.gov.uk response is featured in You and your organisational
he cold depths of
two articles, one about the skills will be sorely missed!
Submission Deadline winter are most 12 Halton Histories
COVID response on station Eleanor became involved
1-May-21 definitely behind 13 Padre's Piece - St Clement Danes
which was an exemplar to with Mainpoint because she
us, and I am not just 18 International Women's Day 2021 At RAF Halton
our sister services and other had an interest in literature
talking about the weather. 19 Station Commander's Coin
RAF stations, and the second and publishing whereas I got
Through the depths of the 19 RMC Prescribe Laughs - Oh Yes They Do!
Publishing Team COVID pandemic, Halton has showing the work of many involved because I wanted to
RAF Halton SATTs in support know what was going on at
operated safely, professionally
Published COMMUNITY & CHARITY of MACA at Merthyr Tydfil. Halton (I’m nosy!). Whatever
and ably to ensure that the
Lance Print Limited, 1st Floor, your motivation, if you
essential task of training
Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, We feature another well- have an interest in helping
people for the front line of 20 Astra Mental Wellbeing Chatbot
Northants, NN16 8NL known station building and to produce the magazine,
the Royal Air Force, as well 21 Air Cadets - Full Of Bright Ideas
Tel: 01536 334222 its resident section in Hidden I would welcome hearing
as that required for career 22 Keep Calm And Carry On Broadcasting
Email: mike@lanceprint.co.uk Halton and also delve into from you.
progression, has continued. 23 TCC Gets Quizzical
Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk the station archives to look
24 Guiding Light Shines On Brownies
at historical station events in Ed
You will see within this 25 Michael Burton Obituary
Advertising edition some of the ways in the month of March, in 1942
Ken which we have mitigated the and 1947. There is new news,
Tel: 01536 334225 risk of COVID transmission SPORTS with the first RAF Regiment
Email: Ken@lanceprint.co.uk to enable us to continue to Fitness Tests being conducted
on station. But much of our
operate safely and how some 26 Book Review - Born To Run By Christopher McDougall
Design news covers how activities
of the innovative methods 26 Fit '4' Feb!
Lance Print Ltd have continued despite the
developed here have then 27 My Friend, Tanita?
Amanda Robinson been rolled out across the rest pandemic, including Air
Tel: 01536 334226 of Defence. There is definitely Cadets, the Brownies and a
Email: amanda@lanceprint.co.uk light at the end of the COVID MISC Medical Centre pantomime
tunnel, but we will continue which had a much smaller
Printed audience than it deserved (oh
to embed the best ways of 27 JR Rank's Feedback Form
Lance Print Ltd, 29/30 Stapledon working, including ways of yes it did!).
Road, Orton Southgate, mitigating disease, for the
Peterborough, PE2 6TD foreseeable future. INTRODUCTORY
Tel: 01733 390564
Email: lanceprint@lanceprint.co.uk
For all of those from outside
of RAF Halton, I look forward
28 Meet the New...
Shoe Repairs, ROZELLE
Visit: www.lanceprint.co.uk to meeting up with you soon Key Cutting, SCHOOL of DANCE
and rekindling the close Sports Trophies
~ Ballet ~ Tap ~
ties that the Station has & Engraving ~ Theatre Craft ~
with the wider community.
Disclaimer:
This publication is copyright Lance Print Limited and
Halton remains committed
Also dry cleaning Classes for children
to being a good neighbour be proud and grateful for Please enjoy this edition
from 3 years
may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in
& watch batteries
whole or in part without prior written permission of
and the lifting of the COVID the magnificent efforts that of the magazine and if you
Tap Classes for adults
Lance Print Limited. While every care has been taken
during the preparation of this magazine, Lance Print restrictions will allow us to everyone here has made to wish to contribute to future
Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy
of the information herein or for any consequence show how that commitment keeping us going. I know that versions of it or if you have Wendover Memorial Hall
arising from it. Views Expressed in this publication
are not necessarily those of the Royal Air Force or the
has manifest over the past the spring will bring a breath views of how RAF Halton can Wharf Road
Ministry of Defence. All images © Crown Copyright year, and will also allow us of fresh air and a chance to do more for the benefit of us 27 High Street, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0AE For information
Tel: 01844 274651 Tel: 01296 622001
FOR ADVERTISING
unless otherwise stated.
to do more. For those within get some well-earned break; I all, please get in touch.
RAF Halton, I continue to Email: info@quickstep-uk.co.uk suerozelle@gmail.com
promise that you will get it! Dan
4 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 5
TRIED AND TESTED
To further negate the chance At the beginning of the
of a COVID-19 outbreak, year, myself and three other
Station News
orders for a lateral flow Servicemen Awaiting Trade
AT RAF HALTON
testing facility to be used Training (SATTs) were fostered
by Halton personnel were to the COVID cell and were
passed onto Wg Cdr Hough met by a weekend of testing.
and the COVID cell. Hangar Having previously used lateral
2 was chosen as the best flow testing in Merthyr Tydfil,
location due to its open we were familiar with testing
space, cleanable surfaces and and PPE protocols. Recruits
position outside the security returning from Christmas
Sgt William Day and Sgt Ole Gray, DE SNCO Cse perimeter. Under normal leave and arriving at Halton
circumstances the hangar is were required to have two
R
used by Chiltern Gliding Club; tests, once upon arrival and
AF Halton’s response The cell was established however, gliding operations another seven days later.
to the COVID-19 crisis by Wg Cdr Ian Hough, who have been stalled due to The testing team consisted
began in March 2020. continues to lead it, and Ms lockdown. With plans to be of a mixture of military and
Although little was Kerry Ruggles, with other used for Day Zero recruits, the civilian volunteer personnel
known about the impact members of the Station hangar also provided enough from across the station, with
of the virus, the threat was Management Squadron parking and through-flow to the Station Commander
obvious from the outset. (SMS). The first measure allow for a new intake of up to manning reception on one
Recruit Training Squadron undertaken by the cell was 120 recruits to turn up within occasion. Once all intakes
(RTS) sees thousands of to ensure station personnel a few hours of each other. were back at Halton, testing
recruits through its doors displaying symptoms were resumed as normal, with
each year - living, eating and isolated for the correct Towards the end of a new intake arriving bi-
sleeping in close proximity length of time. Station transit November, Sgt Topping weekly and a second test
to one another on a daily accommodation was used for and Cpl Wigglesworth were conducted a week later.
basis. Everything about this and maintained by WO tasked with building the
basic training is communal, Hammond and the Contract test facility and within five With the success of this first
from buddy-buddy checks Management Team (CMT ), days of construction it was site, a second, smaller testing
and Physical Training (PT ) in providing meals and welfare operational. After a deep- facility was planned in the
groups to weapons handling checks. Another location on clean by Sodexo contractors, remote teaching building
drills. Beyond RTS, the station station was also set up to distancing within the cohort. a potential bottleneck in cubicles from the old clothing in early January. This was a
is generally a hub of activity accommodate those ‘cohorts’ This meant that only a single training, Sgt Paul Topping and stores were moved in to smaller area with three bays,
and is home to approximately of recruits who had been cohort would be required Cpl Gary Wigglesworth were create 5 separated testing designed for use by Airmen’s
2,100 personnel from all three in contact with a positive to isolate, rather than the tasked with creating a remote bays. Screens, built by Command Squadron (ACS)
armed services, civil servants, case, but had not tested entire intake, if any of the training facility. In doing so, station workshops, Babcock and occasional contractors. Amey contractors smoothed sites, whilst the isolation
contractors and civilians. positive themselves. In each recruits tested positive. this would ensure training contractors, were set up This facility was self-run and out any final creases, blocks and remote teaching
cohort there were around 15 objectives continued to be to maintain the safety of ACS visited Hangar 2 to learn ensuring all lights were facility will hopefully be
To maintain RAF Halton’s recruits, who were able to With one obstacle met and reserved the need the testers, whilst PPE and PPE and testing procedures. working and electrical floor used less with the growing
operational capability, whilst work closely together and, successfully negotiated and to back flight recruits for only supplies were ordered in. Replicating the previous site, sockets were removed. success of testing. Another
remaining COVID-19 secure, due to the smaller numbers, the recognition that any the most serious of COVID Hazardous waste disposal we sourced more cubicles single bay test site has been
a ‘COVID cell’ was developed. remove the need for social isolation period represented cases. A suitable location and cleaning contracts were from the old stores whilst Future plans involve the planned by the entrance to
was found, and divided in also set up with Sodexo. Babcock built more screens. continued use of both testing the station for contractors
half with a green (clean) and individuals, however at
side and a red (dirty) side. the time of writing, building
With classrooms and office has not yet started on this.
space set up and arranged
to allow for social distancing, Although we had only been
audio and visual equipment with the COVID cell for a
was installed by Information month while we awaited our
Systems and Services (ISS) DE SNCO Cse, we learnt a
to support remote, two-way, great deal in that time, and it
conversation and teaching. was a useful insight into the
As the location contained ‘behind-the-scenes’ running
existing dining areas it of a station. I was surprised
meant that meals could how many different groups
be brought from the mess came together and worked
and delivered to isolating seamlessly alongside each
recruits, further reducing other, from civil servants
movement across the station. to contractors to serving
So far, approximately 100 personnel. Hopefully the
recruits have been through COVID cell will not have
the remote teaching to remain operational for
facility, and it remains on very long; however, it is
stand-by to receive any reassuring to see how
more required to isolate. quickly an issue such as
COVID-19 can be reacted to.
6 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 7
SATTS SUPPORT
Station News
MACA IN MERTHYR TYDFIL
Sgt Will Day and Sgt Ole Gray, DE SNCO Cse
A
s part of norm for those straight out to blocks and well on our
RAF Halton’s of phase one training. way through the Reception,
contribution to Staging, Onward movement
providing Military With the assembled masses and Integration (RSOI) This provided enough time for From beginning to end,
Aid to Civilian Authorities split into teams, we boarded package with the minimum any symptoms from the day to the deployment was well
(MACA) on Op RESCRIPT, over the transport and headed for of fuss. The following day saw appear. We were fortunate not organised, especially
sixty Servicemen Awaiting Sennybridge Training Area us cover various briefings to have any of the personnel considering the short notice
Trade Training (SATTs) were (SENTA). The advance party and gain an understanding at SENTA test positive nature of the deployment
deployed alongside other had clearly been productive of culture and history of the during our deployment and and it was made obvious
RAF personnel from across and worked concurrently with local area, particularly the returned to Halton having to everyone involved that
the country to Merthyr the medical team to ensure Aberfan Disaster of 1966 successfully handed over they had an essential part to
Tydfil, Wales in November that we were tested, assigned in which the lives of 116 testing facilities to the MTCC. play in its smooth running.
2020. The requirement was For us as SATTs it was an In total, the RAF team in
to support Merthyr Tydfil amazing experience to be Merthyr Tydfil conducted
County Council (MTCC) in deployed in the UK so soon over 11,400 tests in the
establishing and handing over after graduating from basic time we were there,
whole-town asymptomatic training. Working alongside contributing to the 32,000+
COVID-19 testing sites for children and 28 adults were serving personnel gave us a tests that were conducted
an area that, at the time, tragically lost in a landslide. good insight into what could between 21st November
had one of the highest rates Understandably, the local be expected in our careers. and 18th December.
of COVID-19 in the UK. population still hasn’t
recovered from the disaster
Earlier in the same month, and there are many people
around 200 SATTs had been alive today who lost relatives.
placed on readiness to move,
with a vague inkling of We were soon separated
what was in store. By mid- into our team ‘bubbles’ and
November, sixty SATTs were travelled to the Merthyr
activated and returned to Tydfil football stadium for
Halton. Under the watchful training in Personal Protective
eye of Wg Cdr Ian Hough, OC Equipment (PPE) procedures
Ops Wg, a flurry of activity by the local Police force. This
ensued as staff from Personnel
Support Flight (PSF), SATTs
staff and Direct Entry Senior
Non-Commissioned Officer
(DESNCO) graduates on
hold, amongst others from
across station, supported
in delivering briefings and
issuing kit. Wg Cdr Hough
outlined everything from
estimated time frames to was in readiness for visiting Lt and Cpl were reassured of
accommodation and the our first testing station in our competence in no time.
Station Commander, Gp Capt the Leisure Centre, where we
Dan Startup provided much would be able to shadow the For the following two weeks
appreciated reassurance and existing testing teams ( joint we ran a total of 14 test sites,
motivation. Once the logistics civilian and RAF personnel). taking shifts where required,
machine was in operation As soon as our respective alongside volunteers from
and the advance party had team leaders and 2I/Cs were the local area. To remain
deployed to South Wales, the confident in our abilities to COVID-19 safe we were
dust cleared long enough for correctly operate a testing required to stay within
us to appreciate that we were booth, we could proceed with our team bubbles for the
in the thick of something testing the local population. duration of the deployment
that is certainly not the Fortunately, this was fairly and conduct self-testing
straightforward and our Flt every evening at 2200hrs.
8 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 9
RAF REGIMENT PUT HIDDEN HALTON –
Station News
THROUGH THEIR PACES BURNETT GYM
Cpl George Dowling, PEd Flt, RTS
Sgt Finlay Blyth and Claire Pearce
R R
AF Halton has recently under 16 minutes. After a five- AF Halton Building way and were replaced by
become a regional minute rest, the next element Number 366, a blend of FTRS PTI and
testing centre for the simulates reaction to effective standing imposing Babcock positions. Today
RAF Regiment Annual enemy fire (REEF) over 150m, at the bottom of the Gym is Staffed by one
Fitness Test (RAFT ). Using the requiring participants to run the hill below RTS and by FTRS RAF PTI (Sgt Finlay
Nuffield sports pitches, the the course, adopting the prone Station MT, was opened Blyth) and two Babcock
first test was run on the 16th position every 7.5m, in time to in 1935. It is named after, PTs (Mrs Claire Pearce
December 2020, lead by Sgt a beep, while wearing Combat and was opened by, AVM and Mr Mike Cattermole),
Blyth, Cpl Dowling and Cpl Body Armour (CBA) helmet, Sir Charles Stuart Burnett who are supported by a
Lyne, with nine IFPT Corporals webbing and carrying a rifle, KCB CBE DSO, who had Babcock Admin Assistant
taking part. The test itself totalling a combined weight returned to the UK just the (Ms Finlay Lennard).
consists of four elements, each of 20.5 kg, leading into a 30m year before having spent 2
with multiple stages, taking leopard crawl and sprint for years as AOC Iraq Command. As with all sections, the
around 2 hours to complete time. The final two elements After 57 years of service the COVID-19 pandemic has
in total. The first two phases simulate casualty extraction building was extensively forced the Burnett Gym Staff
were paced by our two PTI and evacuation, with a 110kg renovated in 1992 to into new ways of working.
Cpls, each carrying the same bag drag over 20m and 2 x become what you see today. Fitness Classes, COs Cup and
weight as the test participants. 22kg jerry cans over 200m. the usual Fitness Testing
The striking and have all been postponed. Sgt Finlay Blyth and Claire Pearce outside the Burnett Gym.
They begin with a 4km Patrol RAF Halton will continue unmistakably military Our delivery has moved
Action, (more commonly to conduct multiple RAFTs appearance of the Gym was online, with live classes
known as a Tactical Advance every year, available for all clearly appreciated by the delivered each lunchtime
to Battle or, ‘ TAB’), each local regiment personnel makers of the 2019 Film and two available evening
carrying a load of 40kg, as a outside of RAF Halton as ‘Military Wives’, who featured classes over Zoom, plus 1-1
squad in a time of 50 minutes. well as our own IFPT section, it throughout the film. consultations available to
Following that, the weight is helping the RAF Regiment Starring Oscar Nominated book! The latest initiative is
dropped to 25 kg and a 2km to fulfil their Physical and BAFTA winning actress ‘A Fresh Start, Train Smart’,
TAB is to be completed, as Employment Standard Dame Kristin Scott Thomas a 12-week Health and
an individual best effort, in (PES) requirements. and BAFTA Nominee Sharon Well-Being programme
Horgan, it was a privilege created by Sgt Dale Wallace,
Cpl George Dowling, PEd Flt, RTS. for the Gym Staff at the ACS, utilising the latest
time to see and meet the technology, including every
stars who entered the Gym participant being loaned a
throughout filming. ‘MyZone’ belt to help log
progress and reach their
Over the 86 years of its individual goals.
existence the Gym’s walls
have witnessed countless As soon as measures
sporting competitions, allow, socially distanced
ranging from the pinnacle training in the previously
of sporting ability in the popular “Burnett Boxes”
Tri-service population, will return, as will monthly
to memorable CO’s Cup socially-distanced section
events such as ‘Human Table sports events!
Football’ as well as many
miles of ‘Beep Tests’! To better communicate the
It is rumoured when alone latest PEd information the
in the building at night, Gym has launched a Defence
building ghosts repeat the Connect page that Station
haunting words, ‘ The test Personnel can access from
starts in fifteen seconds.’ their mobile phones. All of
the information for these
The Burnett Gym is one of initiatives can be found on
3 Station Gym facilities and Station Announcements or
is the home of the Stn Gym by contacting the Burnett
Staff. It is unusual amongst Gym on extension 6612
other RAF Gyms in that, in or HAL-BurnettGym@mod.
2014, Regular RAF PTIs made gov.uk
The popular Burnett Boxes.
10 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 11
Kenny Collins
K COLLINS ROOFING LTD
22 North End Road, Quainton,
Nr K FELT
COLLINS ROOFING SPECIALIST
ROOFING 4BD LTD
Station Snippets
Station Snippets
Aylesbury.
ROOFMASTER Bucks. HP22
APPROVED CONTRACTOR K COLLINS ROOFING PADRE’S LTD PIECE - ST CLEMENT DANES
FELT K
Est. COLLINS
1969 ROOFING
ROOFING SPECIALIST LTD
K COLLINS K ROOFING
COLLINS LTD
ROOFING LTD
Tel ROOFMASTER
01296APPROVED
655526CONTRACTOR FELT ROOFING
K COLLINS ROOFING SPECIALIST
LTD
FELT
Est. 1969 ROOFING
Mobile 07831 465501 SPECIALIST K COLLINS
FELT ROOFING ROOFING
FELTSPECIALIST
ROOFING
ROOFMASTER LTD
APPROVED SPECIALIST
Padre Ashley Mitchell
CONTRACTOR
ROOFMASTER APPROVED CONTRACTOR FELT ROOFING SPECIALIST
Est. 1969
ROOFMASTER APPROVED CONTRACTOR
ROOFMASTER APPROVED CONTRACTOR
Email Est.
Kennykenny.collins@btinternet.com
1969Collins FELT
Est. 1969ROOFING
ROOFMASTER SPECIALIST
APPROVED
Est. 1969 CONTRACTOR
ROOFMASTER
Est. 1969APPROVED CONTRACTOR
WebKenny www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk
Collins
22 North End Road, Quainton, Est. 1969
Kenny Collins
Nr Aylesbury.
22 North End Road,Bucks. HP22 4BD
Quainton, Kenny Collins Kenny Collins
Kenny Collins
Nr Aylesbury. Bucks. HP22 4BD 22 North End Road, Quainton,
Tel 01296 655526 Kenny Collins
22 NorthCollins
Kenny Nr Aylesbury.
End Road, Quainton,
22 Bucks.Quainton,
North End Road, HP22 4BD
Tel 22 0129607831
North
Mobile 655526
End Road, Quainton,
465501 Nr Aylesbury.
22 NorthBucks. NrHP22 4BD
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End Road,
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Quainton,
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Email kenny.collins@btinternet.com
Web 01296
Tel www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk
655526 NrMobile
Aylesbury.
Tel07831Bucks.
465501HP22
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Mobile 4BD
655526 kenny.collins@btinternet.com
07831 465501
Web www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk
Mobile 07831 465501 Email Mobile
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kenny.collins@btinternet.com
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Web www.kcollinsfeltroofing.co.uk
Peter provides a full range of HR services and
support and specialises in Career Transition
support He has had global roles within major
international corporates and has nearly 30 years
of HR expertise that he brings that benefit local
businesses be they Public or Private in nature.
His father served in the British army during
WW2, based in Burma and then transferred to
Baragwanath Hospital in South Africa for
Vampire flypast for the Russian delegation, painted by Brian Payne. recuperation. There he met and married and
Peter was born. Peter has worked in South
HALTON HISTORIES
St Clement Danes, Strand, London WC2, East end 2008. Copyright John
Africa, Switzerland and the Middle East before Salmon and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
deciding to set up his own business closer to
S
home here in the UK.
t Clement Danes in the previous 12 months.
Francis Hanford, Trenchard Museum During this unprecedented time, Peter is a Church was Each year St Clement Danes
strong advocate, that as society and workplace destroyed by fire in also celebrates a significant
changes, he believes leaders and staff are the London Blitz of number of weddings and
MARCH 1942 they were able to fly very MARCH 1947 visited the workshops, the recognising that good HR professionals are May 1941 and rebuilt, largely Christenings for past and
I
slowly and in very tight circles. classrooms, laboratories and advisers and can add great value. Leaders are present members of the RAF
by public subscription, in
n March 1942, No. 1448 This gave the calibrators a library in Kermode Hall, the having to make tough decisions, release staff and and their families, as well
On 27 March 1947, Mr 1958. The church was re-
or close down whole operations/businesses.
(Rota) Flight arrived at reference point on which to Aleksandr Aleksandrovich boys’ accommodation and consecrated on 19 October as daily and weekly acts of
As a result Leaders and staff are needing to make changes or transition
RAF Halton as a lodger focus. Most of these were Fadeev, General Secretary of attended a formal parade, and Peter can support and advise both in this regard. 1958 as the Central Church worship for the various faith
unit. They were shortly to flown by pilots who had the Union of Soviet Writers, complete with bands and of the Royal Air Force. In groups across the RAF.
become No 529 Squadron, owned them pre-war and and Colonel-General Milhail Lewis, the goat mascot. Peter is married and has two sons and a pet called Scruffy. His interest doing so it became the
tasked with assisting in the had gone into uniform to Mikhailovich Gromov, are sport, reading and gardening ‘Spiritual Home of the Royal St Clement Danes is a focus of
calibration of the Home continue to use them for the representing the Red Army The programme was to have Peter and Albert provide HR advice and support to businesses in ‘Value, Hope and Resilience’
Air Force’ in central London.
Chain radars. This was done war effort. Based at Halton Aylesbury Central and East Chilterns. They are part of a national for the RAF. Its memorials
Air Force, visited RAF Halton. included a demonstration It still contains the ‘Oranges
network of HR professionals.
using Cierva autogyros (the they were approximately 80 They were greeted by AM of all the aircraft types used and Lemons’ bells for which enshrine the ‘Value’ and
immediate predecessors to miles from each of the coastal Sir Ralph Sorley, AOC-in-C by the home commands of Website St Clements’s is famous. contribution of the past and
the helicopter). Although radar stations but well out of Technical Training Command, the RAF but bad weather www.hrdept.co.uk/east-chilterns/ current service personnel,
these aircraft could not hover, the way of the fighter bases. the Rt Hon Philip Noel-Baker, prevented all but a skeleton LinkedIn It has for over 60 years been its ongoing activity and
Secretary of State for Air programme of flying. The www.linkedin.com/in/peter-mcdonald-4486594/ a focus for the wider RAF engagement represents the
529 Sqn autogyros deployed and MRAF Lord Tedder, Chief highlight of this was a most family. Each year a ‘Founder’s renewing ‘Hope’ of the RAF
for action. of the Air Staff. The visitors impressive low-level, high- Putting your business first Day’ service is held in early family and its regular pattern
had come to see the aircraft speed pass by a Vampire, April to mark the formation of ‘prayer, worship and
apprentices in training; they flown by Flt Lt G H Carter AFC. of the Royal Air Force in reflection’ helps to develop
1918 and each Christmas it the ‘Resilience’ of those who
hosts the ‘RAF Benevolent serve and support the RAF in
529 Sqn, pictured at RAF Halton. To advertise in the next issue of Fund’ carol service to raise so many ways.
Mainpoint much needed funds for the
Being rich in RAF heritage,
wider RAF family. In addition
to this numerous units St Clement Danes is an ideal
Please contact Ken and associations hold their place to go to for a ‘Force
respective commemorations Development’ visit as part
of the ‘London RAF Heritage
Tel: at St Clement Danes.
Walk’. There is also lots to
01536 334225 Each member of the RAF who discover on the ‘St Clement
has passed away during their Danes’ website https://
stclementdanesraf.org/.
Email: service is recorded in the
‘Remembrance Books’ and an Do contact the Station
Ken@lanceprint.co.uk annual service in November
Chaplaincy for
recalls the lives of all those
who have lost their lives
further information.
12
Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 13
CAS LEADERSHIP TALENT MANAGEMENT SATT HOLDING SCHEME
FUTURES ASSOCIATE
T
RTS
RTS
CONFERENCE 2020
he SATT Holding their command and how
Scheme allows important their input
Cpl Chris Kendall, JNCO Thompson Intake, RTS Servicemen Awaiting had been. One SATT
B
Trade Training (SATT ) responded, when asked
eing a Phase 1 • Talent Management the opportunity for work what advice they would
instructor often Strategy: Featuring experience throughout the give to a SATT offered
Cpl Symone Bromley - JNCO Douglas Intake, RTS means lengthy heavily in our discussions/ Royal Air Force whilst awaiting a hold position, 'Take
Phase 2 of their Trade the opportunity while
E
hours, extra work forums this strategy
and an inherent need to outlines the current and Training. At the start of the you can, you get a great
arly in 2020, I was My initial engagement with Covid-19 pandemic, nearly insight into all of the
selected to take part the team in early September, think outside the box, skills future process to better
I have found invaluable manage personnel who all SATT holding placements RAF trades'.
in the CAS Leadership was in order to pre-record fell through. This meant that
Conference, due to my presentation, as due to as a Talent Management present key talents in/out
Futures Associate ( TMFA). of trade. as stations got back to some The Holding Coordinators
be held on 15 Oct 2020. I COVID-19, the conference was normality, SATT Staff had the are also looking to have
was tasked with completing being held virtually online. This secondary duty holds
a number of roles and The TMFA has been a 5-year task of rebuilding its holding SATTs working throughout
a 15-minute presentation on position portfolio. During the RAF Halton, as we had
'Next Generation Leadership: After that I was invited back responsibilities, providing venture which has kept me
data from my peer group/ challenged and energised at first month of the rebuild, previously, and would
A Personal Perspective', to Air Command on 15 over 70 positions were urge anyone who wants
consisting of how I like to Oct in order to watch my trade, attending forums and the same time. Our combined
seminars where we discuss efforts have now been established or re-established the extra support to
be led, how I like to lead and presentation play and then thanks to many proactive get in touch. SATTs are
any barriers/improvement take part in a 30-minute live a number of topics, some recognised in recent events
of which have now been such as the Chief of Air Staff units around the RAF being currently working at RTS,
opportunities I could foresee Question & Answer session. keen to provide opportunities PSF and the Police Flt.
within those topics. I set This was a once in a career implemented service wide, ‘s opening address on his
including: virtual seminar, in which the for the future Airmen/ It makes a huge difference
about looking into what I opportunity which I was Airwomen. We currently have to a new member of the
wanted to talk about, but extremely grateful to be a part Talent Management Strategy
• Access to trade was released. SATTs holding at RAF Benson, Service and gives purpose
initially, I was debating what of. The team at the Tedder RAF Brize Norton, RAFC to their hold period.
the ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ topics Academy of Leadership did a managers at any rank:
Allowing individuals This Strategy, captured in Cranwell and RAF Waddington
were to talk about. fantastic job and I would like to name but a few.
to personally thank them for to contact the trade a short and detailed video
After discussing this with the compassion and forward- desks empowered highlighting the ambition/
them to become more intent of the Royal Air Force Early in this rebuild, Holding
some of my colleagues at thinking attitude to the whole in a dynamic and changing stations to gain help and
involved with their to achieve a talent-focused Co-ordinators took the
RTS, they helped me to fully process. The conference world and Air Force. Lastly, insight moving forward and
career progression. future force, is proving to opportunity to visit SATTs
realise that I needed to give is available to view online following some discussions progressing in their careers.
be a huge success with holding at 33 Sqn and C4i
exactly as I had been asked, a on the Tedder Academy of I had in the live Q+A, my If anyone would like direction
• SJAR system and how Junior Ranks and Line at RAF Benson. The visit was
personal perspective. My own Leadership SharePoint page. attention was drawn to the on how to do this, please
it could be modified/ Managers alike. very informative, and it was
views, complete honesty and new RAF Mentoring Scheme, feel free to contact me via
replaced: This tri-service great to see SATTs gainfully
a Junior Rank's perspective on Moving forward from here, called MentorMe. MODNet.
document has often come As a TG6 (MT driver) employed and adding value
leadership and what we want I would urge all personnel, to the Service. The SATTs
from our Air Force in the next especially anyone in positions It is available for all Everyone has a role to play in under heavy criticism for representative, I often find
its dated approach to myself answering/relaying themselves were grateful
20-30 years. As well as my of leadership to have a personnel to sign up to, leadership, from AC’s to ACM;
recognising an individual’s questions. Debating on for the opportunity as some
own words, I also decided to good read through the new either to mentor or become whether you are currently
achievements annually. behalf of my peers, focusing had been at home awaiting
gain the opinions of some of AP7001, detailing leadership a mentee, giving personnel a leader or are aspiring to
Our ambition is to update on their questions and their Phase 2 start for a few
my recruits at the time, which at all levels and how we go an opportunity to network lead, be the change you
and make it a more ambitions whilst maintaining months, saying that they felt
I included in my presentation. about being effective leaders with differing ranks/trades/ want to see.
modern effective process, an objective approach, this all they were adding value to
ultimately improving adds up to an amazing and their holding units and were
career progression rewarding role to uphold and more motivated as a result. AC Sean McLoughlin & AC Jack
service wide. a great team to be a part of. The Sponsors gave glowing Hughes erecting the 12m mast,
reviews of the SATTs under during monthly servicing
AC Liam Harley gathering data
for the upcoming Tech Refresh.
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company with over 30 years experience in providing a complete
solution for commercial & domestic air conditioning applications
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14 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 15
RTS
Graduation Round Up All Images: UK MOD CROWN COPYRIGHT RESERVED
2020 Station Photography Section.
16 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 17
STATION COMMANDER’S COIN
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2021 RMC PRESCRIBE LAUGHS –
Station Snippets
Station Snippets
AT RAF HALTON
OH YES THEY DO!
Joanne Newbon, RMC Receptionist
Flt Lt M Rowlands
I
nternational Women’s Day Forces, it still severely lags
WO Andrea Culley, SWO, (second right)
(IWD) is held annually on behind other sectors and
attending an RTS Graduation Parade.
08 March, to celebrate is not representative of the
women’s achievement, society which it serves. This
raise awareness against bias, is why IWD is so important
and take action for equality. It to our organisation. We need
aims to promote the specific to celebrate our women,
social, economic, cultural, showcase their achievements,
and political achievements and as a result encourage
of women across the world. more women to consider it Joanne with her charity bucket and some of the cast.
I
According to the World as a serious career choice
Economic Forum, none of us that they can identify with. decided to write and
will see gender equality in direct a short COVID Snow White finally got her
our lifetime, so projects like Here at RAF Halton, we friendly pantomime, Prince, played by Carol,
IWD are very much current, are lucky to have such an Snow White and the who was very convincing
necessary, and relevant. inspiring collective of women Seven Dwarfs, performed by with a wonderful hobby
across our community who the Regional Medical Centre horse and great sound
The first IWD was held in have showcased their roles staff. Sadly, due to the effects. Georgina inspired
1911 and has roots in the and achievements as part of ongoing pandemic we could us as The Mirror, while
RAF’s journey towards greater promote their success, and Images taken by Station Photography Section.
campaigning work that the an International Women’s Day only invite our staff with the Michaela made us proud
gender equality. From the champion equality. Without
Women’s Social and Political project. Just some of those social distancing procedures managing to collect
first female operational pilot an environment of inclusion
Union carried out in the UK in women include Sqn Ldr K (Flt Lt Jo Slater) in 1994, to and mutual support for 11 Dec 20 Lorraine Ferns Community Support in place. a substantial amount
the early twentieth century, Steed, Officer Commanding Jan Holdsworth Team of money for SSAFA.
the RAF being the first of the all, RAF Halton wouldn’t
with the main aim of securing Recruit Training Squadron, Pantomimes are embedded A huge well done and
three Services to open up have these role models Julie Smith in British culture and are thank-you to everyone
universal suffrage, allowing all who is in command of the all roles to women in 2017, to highlight, and that is
women a political vote. Since largest Squadron in the considered a must for many involved, especially Andy,
Mrs Culley has witnessed a thanks to everyone in the
then, it has expanded to a RAF. In such a high-profile British families. who amalgamated all the
significant part of the RAF’s community. There is still work
global event to acknowledge position, Sqn Ldr Steed has gender history. From seeing to be done, but Halton is 16 Dec 20 Sgt Topping SNCO Station We gathered to spread some songs for us; the event
seasonal sparkle. Our Ethan was a great success and
the collective efforts of all talked about how important what has come before, she certainly leading the way. Management Sqn
people who are committed to it is for her to be a visible role was wonderful as Snow boosted morale.
can help to shape the way (SMS) White, exiled by the well-
achieving gender equality. model to the next generation forwards towards even
of women joining the RAF and played evil stepmother, Rick
greater gender parity.
The theme for this years’ how crucial it is for leaders Hannah, and rescued by
event is ‘challenge’ and asks to promote equality. Sqn 16 Dec 20 Tracey McNulty Contract Monitoring our seven dwarfs who did
Aside from our inspiring array
people to reflect upon how Ldr Steed’s catchphrase is Team themselves proud portraying
of female role models, we
they choose to challenge ‘you can’t be what you can’t their characters.
can’t overlook the fantastic
stereotypes, prejudice, see’ and she demonstrates work that our male and
unconscious bias, and this perfectly by confidently gender non-binary colleagues 16 Dec 20 Sgt Bayfield SMS – DE SNCO
more overt discrimination. leading the Squadron do to support our women,
It could also be seen as an through challenging
Sgt Elson Support on the The Ugly Stepsister, played by
Rick Hannah.
opportunity to challenge times, and proudly Sgt Hawes Covid-19 Support Cell
yourself, your friends and acknowledging her gender Sqn Ldr Katy Steed (second left) observing
Recruits handling a casualty on Exercise
family, and your colleagues identity as she does so.
Blue Warrior at Bramley Trg Area.
to make more of an effort
to achieve gender parity. Another woman who the 18 Dec 20 Sally Phillips Babcock Stn
project showcases is the Workshops
Many people believe that Station Warrant Officer, Mrs
there is gender equality Culley. As the most senior
in the RAF, and although female Non-Commissioned 28 Jan 21 MACr Peacock Direct Entrant (DE)
there are many positive Officer on Station, Mrs Culley FS Kinnaird SNCO Course Trainer
developments towards a is another visible role model CT Ward Delivery Team
fully inclusive workplace, the for everyone at Halton. With
RAF as a whole (as of 01 Oct 30 years’ service, Mrs Culley Sgt Martin
20) is still comprised of only doesn’t feel that her gender Sgt Matterface
15% females. Despite this has made any difference to Sgt Stobbs
being the highest percentage her career, however she has
Sgt Wallace
across all of the Armed seen many milestones in the Snow White, played by Ethan, and
Prince Charming, played by Carol.
18 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 19ASTRA MENTAL AIR CADETS –
Community
Community
and Charity
and Charity
WELLBEING CHATBOT FULL OF BRIGHT IDEAS!
Sgt King & Cpl Vint
N
Flt Lt Megan Rowlands
O
early a year on from course to members of other
ne of the recent being listened to. We hate always the best way to get The Bot can help you to when we first began Sqns to complete the Bronze
success stories to acknowledge that our things off your chest and to identify what sort of help you attending Halton award with us. A particularly
to come out of problems aren’t worth the get the help that you need. might want, and the easiest Air Cadets virtually, enjoyable aspect was the
RAF Halton’s Astra time and money that a flesh But it’s not always easy. way to get in touch with it is incredible to look back Inspiring Digital Enterprise
initiative is the creation of a and blood ear demands. the relevant organisations. on all we have accomplished Award (iDEA), an international
mental wellbeing ChatBot. This is where the ChatBot It’s private, quick, and can in 2409 Squadron (Sqn) in award-winning programme
But sometimes we don’t comes in. The Bot is a be accessed from anywhere this time. that helps to develop digital,
We are all familiar with the want talk. Sometimes, we completely anonymous as long as you have a enterprise and employability
concept of ChatBots; and just want a handy source signposting tool, open mobile device with you. Throughout our time in skills for free, something
most of us will have had of information that is easily to the RAF Halton Whole lockdown, we have managed cadets mentioned they
a conversation with one, accessible and can point us Force community, including Give it a try by scanning to maintain twice-weekly learned lots from. As well as
especially if we’ve wanted to in the right direction – no families. It has a wide range the QR code! Virtual Parade Nights ( VPNs) this, many cadets went on
contact customer services judgement, no explanations of resources and points thanks to the commitment of to complete a presentation
recently. This isn’t always necessary. Sometimes when of contact to help with a *please note that the both our staff and cadets. This skills course, giving
a positive experience, and we’re struggling with the spectrum of mental health Bot isn’t a replacement has allowed us to continue presentations on topics such
we’d much rather speak to a demands of life, it can be and wellbeing struggles. for Line Management or our training and engage with as recycling, animal testing
Cpl Vint's certificate, winner of the Squadron Bake Off.
real-life human being when hard to start the conversation From support for those with organisational support, and fun activities. Classification and quantum computing!
we need some help. A shift about how you’re feeling. We a dependency on gambling, that the Stn welfare facilities training has continued, a codebreaking and escape entitled to accompany Lord
to Artificial Intelligence (AI) might not be sure who to to information for the LGBT+ including the Medical Centre, series of mostly aviation room nights. Furthermore, a Lieutenant, Lady Elizabeth
problem solving can leave talk to, or how to broach the community, and for those Personnel Management related subjects enabling couple of our talented cadets Howe, on high profile events
us frustrated and feeling as subject. Talking to someone struggling with feelings of Squadron, and Chaplaincy Cadets to progress through competed in virtual Wing within the county. Looking
though our struggles aren’t you trust, in person, is often low mood and anxiety. are always available. the ranks, gaining badges talent shows, both earning forward, we are excited to see
on their brassard. Training places in the finals. For what else we will achieve in
starts with simple subjects, Remembrance, we decorated the coming months.
building up to understanding poppies, creating a beautiful
complex engine systems window display for our
and aircraft construction. building, and had 2 cadets FOR FURTHER
When the ‘Master Air Cadet’ place crosses on War Graves, INFORMATION
is completed, Cadets gain
a BTEC in Aviation Studies,
Squadron Bake-off. continuing our ongoing
Century of Sacrifice project. CONTACT
strengthening their CV. We have benefitted from As a Sqn we have also been
engaging VPNs by several fortunate enough to have oc.2409@rafac.mod.gov.uk
In addition, we have guest speakers, and in order one of our cadets awarded
undertaken courses to achieve to keep up competition the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet Commonwealth War Graves at
badges such as Blue Space despite being stuck at home, position for Buckinghamshire, Halton Churchyard, Century of
and Bronze & Silver Cyber, we recently held a very through which they are Sacrifice Project.
with cyber being a focus for popular bake-off using the
our Sqn. Four members of Teams App. Other activities Jack Fines-Allin attending the
twice weekly Virtual Parade
staff have become qualified to improve teamwork and Nights.
trainers, and we opened our cadet’s engagement included
Squadron windows decorated for Remembrance Sunday.
20 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 21KEEP CALM AND TCC GETS QUIZZICAL
Community
Community
and Charity
and Charity
CARRY ON BROADCASTING A
Jonathan Kempster, Imperial War Museum B C Lorraine Ferns
T W
hey say that radio AYLESBURY BULLION COMPANY ith the hitch and I even think most sorted and I'm sure that only One last thing I've learnt
crosses borders, but The Family of Jewellers introduction people had a good time - added to the entertainment. whilst hosting a Zoom Quiz
it can also help to of lockdown especially as many came 'Scores on the doors' are is don't let your husband
11a, High St Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP20 1SH
defeat a virus. number 3, the back the following week. being kept, which is proving take control whilst you nip of
Tel: 01296 423198 Community Support and very complicated as some to the bathroom, but that's
Other than the ‘official’ HIVE team were presented As the weeks have progressed teams are asking more another story!!
radio messages transmitted with the challenge of how the contestants have now questions that others, but
from RAF Halton, there is we could engage with become the Quiz Masters and I have recorded them the
also a thriving amateur the Community without we all now take it in turns to fairest way possible and there
radio community on station adding to the pressures ask the questions. Not that is a prize for the winners. Below is a taste
too. I came across the RAF of home schooling. After anyone is competitive (ha of some typical
Halton Radio Society while Jonathon Kempster ready to talk
some debate it was decided ha), but it has progressed With the exit of Lockdown questions from
preparing stories for the to the world in his Radio Shack that we needed to provide to digital rounds with now planned and as we all the quiz, ranging
Imperial War Museum Sound From Home - taken in 2020 by some much needed light 'stay what you see' and try to find the new 'normal',
in difficulty:
Archive, exhibition, due to Jonathan. entertainment for the more 'guess the flag' questions the CS and HIVE Team hope
open next year, marking 'grown up' members of RAF regularly being sent over this is something that we can
the 40th anniversary of the Halton and, as the 'Battle of WhatsApp. There is the continue for the foreseeable - Answers on page 29
emergency, and the radio
Falklands War. I met the society has not been able the Patches' had previously occasional, light-hearted future. There isn't the stress
Officer-in-Charge, Sqn Ldr to meet and operate the been popular, we decided debate over some of the of finding a babysitter or Q1. Which British
Malcolm Wood, and with radio room since then. to try a Zoom 'Virtual Quiz'. answers (exactly how having to get out of your aircraft manufacturer
mug of tea in hand I was Fortunately, the drive and many pubs are there in slippers as everyone can take produced the
introduced to the rest of innovation of members led Setting up the quiz and Wendover??) but there are part in the comfort of their Spitfire?
the team in the ‘radio club to the establishment of a advertising was very straight now a regular number of own home though you do
room’. From here, the radio daily meeting ‘on the air.’ forward; the scariest part teams who join the quiz every have to provide your own gin! Q2. Is a Chinook
volunteers operate state-of- Jewellery designed and produced to your was making sure that I didn't week, so I think they enjoy it.
Using an automatic relay wind hot or cold?
the-art, as well as vintage specifications, or choose from our forget it (alarms on phones If you want to join the Virtual
station located on the hill
ex-RAF shortwave radio to the east of Halton Camp,
extensive range of new, secondhand and watches are very good), The occasional mishap does Zoom Quiz please email
and antique pieces. Q3. What breed of
communications equipment. the radio volunteers were my IT wouldn't let me down happen and, one week I me at HAL-PMSHIVEIO@
They talk by radio to other and would anyone show did manage to log in to the mod.gov.uk, for the access dog is Snoopy?
able to exchange messages l Diamond merchants
operators around the world, from home during the up? Thankfully none of my wrong Zoom meeting and details or check out the RAF
(certified stones always available)
representing RAF Halton most challenging period of fears became a reality as the no one could access the Halton Community Support
with the special radio call- l Antique restorations first quiz went without a quiz but that was quickly Facebook page.
Lockdown. Everyone looked
sign G1RAF. out for each other, and the l Hand engraving
RAF Halton radio family l Valuations: insurance and probate
Another essential role is kept in touch remotely, with (carried out on the premises)
forging the next generation visitors calling in from far l Insurance claims advisors
of RAF technical and and wide. l Complete repair service
operational officers, by
supporting and facilitating Of course, they are all very Servicing of Rolex, Tag, Omega, Raymond Weil,
radio communications keen to get back on station Gucci etc. Batteries fitted and waterproof testing
training for the Air Cadets, and continue working with carried out on the premises.
through classroom and field the cadets, to get the Halton
exercises, and invigilating radio voice heard around the Top prices paid in cash for antique and
the Foundation radio world once again – but it modern jewellery, watches (especially Rolex),
licence exam. looks like that may be a little coins, gold, silver, platinum and
way off for now. scrap precious metals.
However, last March, all Personally, I am itching to Part exchange available.
but essential staff had to pick up where I left off...
leave due to the COVID-19 so, if anyone on station can
remember their experiences
during the Falklands War,
I am ready with my tape
recorder to capture your
voice for the archive.
For further information 11a High Street, Aylesbury,
please contact Jonathan
Kempster, JKempster@iwm. Buckinghamshire, HP20 1SH
org.uk, or the group email Tel: 01296 423198
Taking a break with a brew - account: radio.laser@rafac. www.aylesburybullion.co.uk
taken in 2020 by Jonathan. mod.gov.uk
23
Vale Life : Nov/Dec 2019
22 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 23GUIDING LIGHT SHINES ON BROWNIES MICHAEL BURTON OBITUARY
Community
and Charity
Community
and Charity
T
Wg Cdr Karen Moran
E
he staff of the main gate. Identifying the
Michael explaining the aileron control mechanism on
veryone involved so quiet and don’t expect to Trenchard Museum Aylesbury ringleader, he an early glider during a Cool Aeronautics event.
with 2nd Halton see it again anytime soon. In regret deeply to report invited him to “come with me.”
Brownies are addition to online meetings, the death of Michael They walked up to the corner
incredibly proud of many Brownies committed Burton, in December 2020. of Groves Mess, from where
all the girls’ determination extra time to complete the visitor could see some
and resilience under difficult activities and gain their During his declining years he 1,000 apprentices milling
lock down restrictions. The interest badges in Space, refurbished our Dart aero- about with more joining them
leaders quickly adapted and Aviation, Baking, Jobs and engine and proved a fount of from the barrack blocks. With
moved to online meetings Zero Wastage, all exciting technical knowledge. Above a muttered “we’ll be back,”
to allow the girls to access subjects to explore. all, he was ever ready and the young man returned to
the benefits guiding brings; able to enthral the visiting his friends, who dispersed,
having fun, making friends school children engaged never to be seen again!
and challenging themselves. in the Cool Aeronautics
programme with facts about After marrying in 1970, he
We started lockdown with flight. He will be sorely missed; decided to leave the RAF.
the Brownies having great ‘Guiding Light’, by Ren. his legacy is tremendous. However, he reappeared
fun gaining a sleepover the next day as a civilian
meetings, support from all about their daughter(s)
badge through a virtual ‘Stay Michael first came to Halton instructor with his enthusiasm
the parents. Thank you all joining Brownies, becoming
In, Sleep In’ weekend. They in 1968, to become an for the task undiminished. Cranfield and then free-lance, where it had been used for
for keeping the Guiding a leader or supporting
were challenged to pick instructor in the Airframe Thus, when he was asked finally retiring in 2010. development projects. With
light shining in Halton over 2nd Halton Brownies, then
somewhere in the house, or Training Squadron. He was a to restore Spitfire Mk 16 However, Michael has left so many modifications it
the past months. If anyone please contact the leaders at
garden, that they would not newly promoted Sergeant SL574 in December 1985, his mark on RAF Halton. was unsuitable as a Halton
would like more information, 2haltonbrownies@gmail.com.
normally sleep and build a who had worked on a wide the challenge was accepted In 1986 he heard that the training airframe. After
shelter for the night. We saw selection of aircraft, ranging enthusiastically. With a team Station Commander was appropriate preparation,
a mixture of tents in gardens from Chipmunks to Vulcans. of volunteers, which included unhappy with the absence of one Friday afternoon, he and
and indoor hideaways, but Here he rapidly revealed his wife and 12-year-old a Gate Guardian. Surveying a band of “trusties” quietly
Bella preparing dinner.
the most inventive was a breadth of technical son, the task progressed his workshop his eye fell on wheeled it down the road
turning a trampoline into a On Remembrance Day, one knowledge and a ready apace with the latter proving Hawker Hunter F6 XF527 past Old Workshops and
luxury den. We hope all the Brownie and Leader, instead wittiness which gained him extremely useful when which had come to Halton into the position which it
families enjoyed the meal of the whole pack, attended the respect of the lively, accessing the inside of the from Boscombe Down, has occupied ever since.
they had to plan and prepare a small, but poignant, intelligent young men whom fuselage and revelling in the
and shall say no more about socially distanced Service he trained in New Workshops. Blue Peter and John Craven's
their antics making and at the Commonwealth War Newsround interviews
eating ‘arm pit fudge’! Yes, it Graves in Halton, where they He was equal to any occasion, which got him a day off
is a thing, look it up! laid a wreath on behalf of as he demonstrated one night school. When completed in
Girlguiding. when Orderly Sergeant in the 1989 it was exchanged for
Frankie ready for her sleepover. Henderson/Groves Guardroom the North American P-51D
During this turbulent period, (now the Armoury). A large Mustang 44-73415 which is
9 girls have completed their Olivia’s sock puppet. crowd of Aylesbury youths had in the RAF Museum. Spitfire
Brownie Bronze Award, 2 of collected outside the gate, SL574 is now in the San Diego
which went on to complete demanding to be let in to, Air and Space Museum.
their Brownie Silver Award; “sort out those apprentices.”
an incredible achievement Telling the Orderly Corporal When Airframe Training
given the limitations placed to order all apprentices to moved to Cosford in 1988,
on activities. All this could assemble on the barrack Michael left the Civil Service
only be achieved by the square immediately, he and became a ground-
endeavours of committed walked slowly down to the school instructor first at
leaders, young leaders and,
with the lack of face-to-face Michael’s legacy to RAF Halton: Hawker Hunter F6 XF527.
In early Autumn, we were
briefly able to return to
face-to-face meetings, but
only for one half term before
restrictions drove us back to
weekly Zoom Brownies.
Undeterred, we returned to
online adventures and all Michael introduces the Blue Peter
learnt to sign our Brownie presenter Caron Keating to SL574
Promise. We have never and volunteer painters Mark
known the Brownies to be Harriett tucking in. Poppy Hinkley receiving her prize by abseiling teddy. Cheshire and Pete May.
24 Mainpoint Spring 2021 Mainpoint Spring 2021 25You can also read
