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Marham Air Cadets Forge Ahead in 2012

Snow&Ice ClearanceMembers from TIW were called into action

Marham Bluebirds MWC Our First Year

Anniversary

Junior Leadership

Course 15 personnel from RAF Marham

embarked on the Junior Ranks Leadership Course

RAF Marham’s II (AC) Squadron Raise Money for Scotty’s Little Soldiers

Norwich Half Marathon

The official publication of Royal Air Force Marham Issue 1, 2013 £Freewww.marhammattersonline.co.uk

Inside this Issue: Regulars Heavens Above News Charity Fishing Match Charity Marathons for Lola

ConTenTS ISSue 1, 2013

ISSUe 1, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 3www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

ISSue 1, 2013 COveR CRedIT:

FS Graham Sparks

edITOR: Alison SmithExt: 7332Email: MRM-BSWAMCO@

mod.uk

Sub-edITOR: Clare SmithExt: 6739Email: [email protected]

RAF MARHAM Web PAGe:www.raf.mod.uk/rafmarham

deSIGNeR: Chris KellerEmail: chris@

lancepublishing.co.uk

SALeS MANAGeR: Jayne baileyTel: (01536) 526677Email: jayne@

lancepublishing.co.uk

PRINTeR: Lance Print LtdTel: (01480) 492183

dISCLAIMeR: The views expressed by the contributors to the Marham Matters are not necessarily those of the Editor, MoD, RAF or the publishers and do not reflect Station policy. All precautions are taken to ensure accuracy. Advertisements are accepted on the understanding that they conform to the British Code of Advertising Practice. This magazine is published by kind permission of the Station Commander. All Images © Crown Copyright 2013, unless otherwise stated.

STOCKISTS: The Surgery, Marham, Manor Farm Medical Centre, Swaffham, Plowright Medical Centre, Swaffham, The Surgery, Swaffham, Howdale Surgery, Downham Market, Hollies Veterinary Clinic, Downham Market, The Crossings Veterinary Clinic, Downham Market, The Grove Veterinary Surgery, Swaffham, Priory Centre, Downham Market, Lynn News, King’s Lynn, St Martin’s at Shouldham VA Primary School, Marham Infant School, Marham Junior School, Downham Market High School, Hamonds High School, Swaffham, Town Halls in Downham Market, Kings Lynn and Swaffham, BAE, Warton, Armed Forces Careers Office in Norwich, Cambridge and Peterborough, Royal Air Force Association in Downham Market, Downham Market Air Cadets, All other RAF bases

Well it seems to be a little late to be wishing you a ‘Happy New Year’ but as this is the first edition of the year – we are going to say it anyway!

Lots has happened since the last edition; Christmas, new Year and the recent snowfall have all brought lots of excitement, especially for the younger ones, but judging by the volume and diversity of the articles we have received

Welcome to the first issue of Marham Matters for 2013.

From the editors

Deadline Date for next Issue:Tuesday 5th February 2013Please submit all entries for the next issue by the date stated above.

everyone else has been pretty busy too. The Cadets have included their annual report, as have the RAF Marham Swimming Team. Both have had a very busy and successful 2012. The CSS pages are full of community news and up coming events, or pop into the HIVe and speak to the very helpful team in there. Please keep your news and articles coming in!

To view this publication online please scan the QR code using a smartphone or tablet.

Stn Cdr’s ForewordBy Gp Cpt D J e Cooper .......... 5

Heavens AboveThe Chaplaincy Team talk about change and how we have to cope ................................. 6

RAF Marham CinemaSee what’s on this month ..... 18

Community Support SqnFull of community news and upcoming events ............ 15

Snow & Ice ClearanceTIW called in to action and assisting with the clear up .........5

Challenge ProjectMarham recently hosted 21 girls from local schools to take part in the Challenge Project ................... 6

1953 East Anglian FloodsChris Mackie gives his personal account of the events ....................................... 9

Marham Air CadetsCadets from 864 (Marham) Detached Flight ATC made great progress in 2012 ............. 8

Junior Leadership CoursePersonnel from Marham take on various exercises ................. 22

Charity Fishing MatchThe event was held to support the ‘Scotty’s Little Soldiers’ charity.....12

Marham Bluebirds MWCFirst year anniversary ...........................12

RegulaRs News

FeatuRes

FeatuRes

HoNouRs & awaRds

spoRt & CHaRity

Sporting Excellence AwardsHeld at Halton House on the 23rd of november 2012 ......... 25

Marathons for LolaTIW raise money for the AT Society ..................................27

Swimming Success2012 saw another busy year for Marham swimmers ..............28

Norwich Half Marathon10 runners from Marham raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support ........................... 29

24

SIF Norfolk Broads Cruiser Fancy spending some time on the norfolk Broads? ....................24

4 MARHAM MATTeRS ISSUe 1, 2013

STATIon CoMMAnDeR’S FoReWoRD ReGuLARS

ISSUe 1, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 5‘deliver battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

I have been very pleased indeed with everyone’s work within the cold and snowy environment - work has carried on within the domestic site and the runway was in use in record time. My thanks go to all those who continue to keep our travelling surfaces clear in these conditions, in what has been a magnificent cross-Station team effort.

I know that you will each have had a unique Christmas. Some will have travelled, some will have stayed at Marham. Some will have spent time with family, some of you with friends, and some with both. I had the opportunity to meet those who were working over the holidays - and a smiling lot they were! I am very grateful for those that were carrying out their duties in any part of the holiday, but especially during Christmas Day. once again, thank-you.

I attended a service in Holy Trinity Church in the village this morning in which the Minister prayed for those working in the Marham vicinity. It was comforting to be reminded that we are considered as an integral part of the community, and that we are in that congregation’s thoughts.

Many of you will have heard the sad news of the tragic death of SAC Calum Robertson in a diving accident in the weeks before Christmas. The loss of anyone is hard to bear, particularly when they are young, and when they are also a member of the Station on which you serve. I was deeply moved by the support that you gave to those that knew Calum well, and for the support that you gave to Calum’s family, particularly on the day of the funeral in Moray. our colleagues

at RAF Lossiemouth also played a much appreciated part in helping us in the aftermath of the tragedy.

You will be aware that IX(B) Squadron are away at the moment, as are a large number of our personnel in far-flung parts of the globe. Please would you continue to give them the priority they deserve, be that in a work-based matter, or equally when supporting their families, at or away from Marham. 31 Squadron will be off soon, as will 3FP Wing, and more of our individuals will go away not tied to a specific RAF Marham Wing or Squadron.

It seems to be a time of change with respect to the execs. We now have an Air Commodore on the base as the Tornado Force Commander. oC II(AC) Squadron will change from Wing Commander Tucker-Lowe (with Mickey) to Wing Commander Jez Holmes (and Amanda). oC operations Wing is due to change from Wing Commander Andy Challen (with Verity) to Wing Commander Rob Connor (and Sarah). oC 3FP Wing has already changed from Wing Commander Jason Sutton (and nana) to Wing Commander Andy Jones (yes, the same name as our Padre!). Wing Commander Pete Daulby (with Marie) is now oC Depth Support Wing. My thanks go to those leaving for their tireless efforts in support of the Station, and my warm welcome goes to those arriving.

I sincerely hope that the time between now and when you read this has not been strewn with poor weather! Have an excellent February.

In bright sunny but freezing conditions the team got stuck into breaking up the compacted snow in order to make the play area safe for the children to play on.

The assistance was organised by Flt Sgt Paul Knott who, when the weather showed no sign of a thaw, gathered together an impromptu working party to clear the worst of the ice and snow. Marham Infants was one of the few schools in the area to remain open during the freeze and the efforts of the TIW team were warmly welcomed by the School Head who expressed her thanks on behalf of the school for the excellent support.

Members from TIW were called into action to assist in clearing the snow and ice from the Marham Infants School playground.

Snow&Ice Clearance

It is cold, as I write. It is some relief that we are not as badly off (at the moment) as some parts of the country, although we have a long way to go through the winter - and I am in danger of counting chickens before they are hatched.


ReGuLARS HeAVenS ABoVe


Depending whether we perceive them as positive or negative can make these changes welcome, or ones that we find it particularly difficult to cope with. In the Forces we are generally used to change on a regular basis, but this does not necessarily make it easy, and its effects on those closest to us can sometimes be greater than we think. It is sometimes helpful to talk through how big changes in our lives are impacting on us – it is not an admission of being unable to cope, but simply a means by which we can adjust to a new way of working, thinking, or indeed simply living.

every aspect of life at some time or other has to deal with change. The Chaplaincy Team itself has experienced a degree of change in the last few weeks and will have to face more in the coming months. Just before Christmas, Padre Mark Kennard left Marham to join the Chaplaincy team at RAF Coningsby. Padre Mark had been here for over four years and was a valuable source of information for a constantly changing team. His practical skills were well used in the Centre and further afield on Station. There wasn’t much that Padre Mark couldn’t repair, modify or find a completely new solution to. Many of you here at Marham will have benefitted from his wise words, his care and his enthusiasm for the work here. We wish him well in his new posting.

next month, the Chaplaincy will see a change in Senior Padre, as Padre Andrew Jones leaves to take up a posting at SHAPe

Written By: The Chaplaincy Team

Change is something that we have to cope with every day of our lives, from the most simple and routine, to the most dramatic and sometimes traumatic changes.

in Belgium. His replacement will be The Rev’d (Wg Cdr) Ashley Mitchell, who joins the team from RAF High Wycombe. Marham has been greatly blessed by the insight and support that Padre Jones has given to individual’s lives and situations. His input on Force Development Training has given many people a new understanding of how our brains work and this has helped to go some way in explaining why we think what we think and do what we do. We wish him all the best in his new role.

Part of change is also recognising that we don’t have all the resources and answers ourselves to deal with the situations that we encounter on a day to day basis. This is why we have Community Support: SSAFA, The HIVe, and of course the Padres. However, there are many other agencies outside of the RAF family that can also provide support and assistance in times of change. The Chaplaincy webpage has an up to date list of organisations that might be of use to you or your families should you need them.

Whatever change you are facing at the moment, whether it is good or challenging try to work through it in a way that brings positive things into your situation, rather than feeling that the change is controlling you. There’s always someone who has or is going through the same thing and there’s always someone who can offer you help if you need it.

The residential camp at Marham gives the girls a chance to realise and reach their potential, offering a variety of activities to encourage self-esteem, communication, teamwork, honesty and effort. Many team building tasks were completed, as were visits to CMU, SE Flt, Dog Section, paintballing and lots of fitness.

Accommodated in 2620 RAUXAF Sqn, the girls were treated to fire pickets, cam cream, ration packs and drill. It is difficult to convey how important and successful the Challenge Project is as each girl would have had a different experience and varying highs and lows during residential. Below is a letter from one of the girls who successfully completed the Challenge.

A massive thank you to all those who supported, encouraged and helped out during the Challenge.

Marham recently hosted 21 young girls from local schools on the Challenge Project.

Written By: Flt Lt Colette McGinn, PEdO

Challenge Project

8 MARHAM MATTeRS ISSUe 1, 2013 ISSUe 1, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 9‘deliver battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

In its third year, 864DF has offered an increasing amount of exciting opportunities for the young people of RAF Marham and the surrounding area, including:

ANNuAL CAMP: A week at RAF Boulmer in northumberland where cadets tasted service life, got a close look at our radar defences and visited Alnwick Castle – the real Hogwarts of Harry Potter fame. Cadet Corporal Ryan Jackson described the experience as “Awesome!”

bIKING: After training sessions with instructors, a group of cadets had an excellent day of off-road biking in Thetford Forest.

Written By: Flt Lt AJ Hall RAFVR(T)

Marham Air CadetsForge Ahead in 2012

Cadets from 864 (Marham) Detached Flight Air Training Corps have made great progress,

a verdict confirmed by the results of their 2012 Annual Formal Inspection. The unit’s greatest improvement has been in

recruitment and retention – increasing to and keeping 25 regular attendees.

FeATuReS MARHAM AIR CADeTS FoRGe AHeAD In 2012

FLYING: Six cadets have been flying at RAF Wyton in the Tutor Aircraft.

MILITARY FIeLdCRAFT: A group of ten cadets spent the night in Triangle Wood, in shelters that they had constructed themselves, to learn the techniques of living in the field from instructors at 2620 Sqn. They also took part in the Griffin Challenge, a day-long exercise run by 2620 for air cadet units in norfolk.

vISITS: A number of fascinating visits took place on the base, which included getting up close to Tornados at TMS and VAS, a briefing on

the work of TIW and testing out breathing apparatus at the Fire Section. 31

Squadron also played host to a group in the summer.

Away from Marham, the cadets visited the RAF

Museums at Hendon and Cosford.

SPORT:once a month cadets go to Marham Gym to use the climbing wall and sports facilities. Two cadets won

three medals at the Wing Athletics

championships and several got the

opportunity to run with the olympic torch

on its visit to Marham.

duKe OF edINbuRGH’S AWARd:

expeditions were held in Suffolk, norfolk and Shropshire this year with over half the cadets in the unit now enrolled in the scheme.

COMMuNITY INvOLveMeNT: Cadets assisted the station this year with Friends and Families Day, where they won a prize for the best contribution by a cadet unit; also assisting with Bonfire night and taking part in Remembrance Sunday. In narborough village, they helped the Royal British Legion with the Poppy collection. Commanding officer Flt Lt Tony Hall said “Marham provides a lot for the cadets and it is very important that we put something back into the community. our grateful thanks go to the Station Commander and all who have helped us throughout the year.”

Due to postings, 864DF has lost some valuable members of staff in 2012 and will lose more in 2013. If you are interested in helping out as ATC Uniformed Staff, Service Helper or Civilian Instructor and can spare a few hours on a Monday evening, please get in touch as below.

Marham’s Air Cadet unit is open to boys and girls aged between 13 and 16 from both service and civilian families. We have lots more exciting activities planned for 2013, so for more information contact Tony Hall on 07900 518153 or by email at [email protected]. You can also see us online at www.raf.mod.uk/rafmarham/stationfacilities/atc.cfm

Left: Medal Winners at Wing Athletics

Below: 864DF cadets on parade at Marham cemetery

Above: Cadet ATC Sunday parade at Marham

Pictured: DofE 2012, Cdt Cpl Callum Arnold and Cdt Cpl Ryan Jackson on The Stiperstones in Shropshire

Pictured: Cadet Saffron Medley tries out her shelter in Triangle Wood

1953 eAST AnGLIAn FLooDS NeWS

This month will see services held throughout the region, in remembrance to those who lost their lives during the 1953 floods. Also honoured will be those that took part in the rescue operations.

The terrible floods in 1953 across east Anglia and the east coast, led to a large number of homes being destroyed. Families lost loved ones as the sea surged through towns and villages. The surge occurred during the Saturday evening and Sunday morning, with times at which it struck varying across the county. Many people climbed onto the rooftops awaiting rescue, others were drowned in their beds or swept away with their houses.

RAF Marham personnel were called upon, along with the emergency services to assist with the rescue and clear up operation. Below is a personal account from a young man (Chris Mackie) serving at RAF Marham at the time.

I have two memorable experiences of the floods. The first was on the evening of 31st January, the other during the aftermath.

31ST JANuARY 1953, KING’S LYNNAs a single man, stationed at RAF Marham, I decided to take a bus into Lynn to go to a dance at the Corn exchange on the Tuesday Market Place. I wasn’t a very good dancer but nevertheless found a courageous Lynn girl and we danced to the little band quite happily, chattering away, until we suddenly realised we were the only two left on the dance floor. There seemed to be some commotion at the entrance, with people putting on their coats and leaving.

When we went to see what was going on, we discovered that the river was flooding. Water was pouring past both sides of the Corn exchange and gradually spreading across the Market Place. The only way we could get away was by crossing the torrent to the steps of the next building (the old bank) and then to the corner of the Market Place, where it was still dry.

Most of the people had already got away, but now the water was

60 years ago on 31st January a combination of forceful winds, atmospheric pressure and high tides created a storm surge that was to devastate local communities. Flooding along the east coast claimed many lives and destroyed property.

deep; so I took off my shoes and socks, rolled up my trousers and said to my dancing companion, ‘I’ll carry you.’ It was horrific. The water was ice cold and I nearly cried with the pain. As soon as I put the girl down I told her, rather ungallantly, she’d better go home. It was difficult to get my socks back onto my wet and freezing feet.

I decided I’d better get back to camp, but found the Millfleet was also flooded - buses used to go from there before the new bus station was built.

THe OuSe bANKPersonnel from RAF Marham, including me, were sent to help in repairing a breach of the River ouse upstream. A barge was moored on one side of the river and we had to fill sandbags with soil and load them onto the barge, walking along wet and muddy planks. It was a wonder there were no accidents. When the tide was low the water receded from the fields and the barge was positioned near the gap in the bank and the sand bags thrown into the breach.

We worked in two shifts, aircrew in the daytime and we ground crew in the evening. It was miserable work in the bitter cold and blinding sleet. How ever, we had a laugh at the clever aircrew lads, who managed to let the barge float through the gap and wedge itself in the flooded field. They had a fine time recovering it. This went on for several days.

A nAAFI van was on site selling refreshments but no one bought anything as there was also a WVS van giving out food and drinks for free. Apparently the nAAFI manager complained to the Co that we didn’t patronise the nAAFI. I wonder why!

At the end of our stint we returned to RAF MArham, had a meal and, unusual for the RAF, were given a tot of grog (rum, thick as treacle).

As part of the anniversary – True’s Yard Museum, in King’s Lynn will display historic pictures of the 1953 Floods for the public to view.

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10 MARHAM MATTeRS ISSUe 1, 2013 ‘deliver battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’

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DUXFoRD IWM VISIT & AIRKIX InDooR SKYDIVInG NeWS


The day consisted of two activities, a visit to Duxford Imperial War Museum to brush up on our air power knowledge, followed by a trip to Airkix indoor skydiving centre for some team building.

on arrival at Duxford we had a team photograph taken by the Hurricane outside and then split down into groups to look around the museum. Duxford airfield is renowned for being the best preserved Second World War RAF airfield in the world with exhibitions such as the American Air Museum and a reconstruction of the 1940 operations Room which is located behind its original blast walls.

on the bus again to Milton Keynes and the Pedo was in her element as it was quiz time! Silence fell across the bus as we racked our brains for the answers. It is safe to say that some of us have spent more time than others attending pub quizzes!

We arrived at Airkix and were put into groups ready for our indoor skydiving experience! As most of us had never done anything like this before, the nerves were evident as we put on our outfits (all the gear no idea springs to mind) and met our instructor. We were taken into a viewing room which contained an air tunnel; the tunnel is designed to circulate air into a flight chamber. You stand in the open doorway and lean forward, the instructor guides you into a horizontal position and that’s it, you’re flying! Some of us took to it like a duck to water and others, myself included, were not so good! You got two

duxford Imperial War Museum & Airkix Indoor SkydivingWith the Personnel Management Squadron office reorganisation now complete, it seemed like the perfect time to have a team event for everyone working in and around BSW.

goes meaning that the instructor could teach you some basic movements and then you could build on them. everyone was greeted by a big round of applause on exit from the tunnel; it was certainly not as easy as it looked! once everyone had had their first go, the confidence level was definitely a lot higher, with some of the guys literally diving in on their next go. As we were only beginners, there was a restriction to the height we could fly on our own but as an extra, our final turn each concluded in the instructor joining you in the tunnel and spinning you round, ‘flying’ you up to the top and back down numerous times.

Although a bit unsteady on their feet afterwards, everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. We all piled back onto the bus and right on cue, the Pedo popped up and it was time for Bus Bingo!

What a year it has been – who could have possibly dreamt when we met up in the Bull and Bowl for a drink to talk about the possibility of singing together, that we would have done all we have in just a year?

It will be easier to let some of our members sum up their highlights from the last year, than for me to try and put it into words…

Written By: Nicola Holder

Marham Bluebirds MWC Our First Year Anniversary

January 25th 2013 sees the first year anniversary of the Marham Bluebirds Military Wives Choir.

eMMA…My best moment was singing at the Classical Brit Awards at The Royal Albert Hall. The memory of standing on that stage with all the other Military Wives Choir members, looking out at that huge audience and singing ‘Sing’ will stay with me forever.

HeLeN…I will never forget looking down the Mall from the stage at the Queen’s Jubilee concert and thinking how amazing it was to see so many people supporting their Queen and country. As a military wife I can honestly say that this was the highlight of 16 years of being part of the RAF and, as my husband and I prepare for another move, this past year with the Bluebirds has given me fantastic memories and friendships to treasure for a very long time! Stronger Together Girls!

STePH…For me the best moment was performing at Tattersalls in newmarket last november. I have always loved to sing and even though I seem very confident, nerves have always been a problem for me. We have a group of very supportive ladies within the Marham Bluebirds who I now feel very confident in singing with, but I was chosen to be one of the soloists to perform “Sing” at Tattersalls. I was so nervous all day, then travelling to

the venue, but standing lined up waiting to take to the stage, all the ladies were so supportive that I felt I could do anything knowing that they were behind me every step of the way.

JANe…Going to London to make the video for ‘Stronger Together’ was an awesome and amazing experience to have. The coming together of so many like minded people from around the world is a unique experience that will live with me forever.

GAYNOR…The best part of the choir for me is the support and togetherness the choir offers to all of us, who are in the same situation. The biggest highlight for me is performing outside Buckingham palace in front of the royal family at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee concert!

SHAMAINe (CHOIR FOuNdeR)…The most amazing part of being in the choir this year is seeing the ladies grow in both confidence and singing ability. I have loved be able to build a group of women where everyone feels important and part of something special! The highlight for me was the Jubilee concert at Buckingham Palace and recording ‘Sing!’ with Gary Barlow, Gareth Malone and the other choir girls at Abbey Road studios! Bring on 2013!

vIKI…My highlight was being given the opportunity to represent the Bluebirds by singing at Buckingham Palace as part of the Queen’s Christmas Message. This once in a lifetime experience was even more special as my husband was able to watch it whilst being on deployment.

RACHeL…I’m finding it difficult to squeeze such a significant part of my life into such a short sentence! Joy, excitement, release from stress, support, and most of all, friendship. This choir is a blessing to so many of us, as a shared love of singing gives us a bond I guess; it allows us to form friendships that might otherwise never have arisen.

What Rachel has said best describes what the choir has meant to everyone – from old members to new. We simply cannot wait for our adventures in 2013, and would love nothing more than for some new faces to come along on the ride with us!

For more information, please see the website at www.marhambluebirds.co.uk or email our Social Secretary on: [email protected].

on Wednesday 21st november, members of Logistic Support Squadron (LSS) from RAF Marham held a Charity Fishing Match at Dents Fisheries Farm Shop Lake.

Charity Fishing Match

The event was held to support the ‘Scotty’s Little Soldiers’ charity, an extremely important charity that helps and supports the children of British Forces personnel, injured or sadly killed in the line duty.

The day started early, meeting at Dents Farm Shop Fisheries at 7.30am with constant rain and cold winds not dampening the efforts of eight keen and eager anglers. After the peg draw, the guys were quick to set up and get under way by 8am. The bigger fish seemed to be elusive, playing ‘hide and seek’ for the Carp specialists during the day, although plenty of smaller silver fish were being caught by other anglers. not deterred by the weather, Sqn Ldr Sam Alexander, oC LSS, took time out from her busy work schedule to visit and try her hand at angling. It was concluded that she will not be taking this up as a future hobby. The match was called to a halt at approx 4pm

We would like to thank Mr Dent of Dents Farm Shop for his support and use of the lake, also our contractual partners SeRCo, for their kind sponsorship and organisation of the banners for this event.

overall the amount of £843.61 was raised for this charity and I hope that this will go towards helping the families of those brave Servicemen who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Service for their country.

and the weigh-in commenced, with the winning weight of just over 6lb by

SAC Jason Frost. This was followed by a photo call, by Mr Stan Stabler from

LSS who also took out time to take action shots throughout

the day. overall it was a very successful day that was enjoyed by all.

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Get around safely andbook early to avoid disappointment

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COMMuNITY SuPPORT SquAdRON


COMMuNITY SuPPORT AdMIN Jane Murdoch, Tel: (01760) 446136 or on base 95951 6136 email: [email protected]

COMMuNITY SuPPORT WebSITe www.marhamhub.co.uk

HIve INFORMATION Stevie Lewis, Tel: (01760) 446121 or 01760 337261 ext: 7425 email: [email protected]

SCSO Flt Sgt Terry Norman, Tel: (01760) 446052, on base 95951 6052 email: [email protected]

COMMuNITY deveLOPMeNT Rita broomfield, Tel: (01760) 337261 ext: 7491 or 07899 908372email: [email protected]

SAFeR NeIGHbOuRHOOd TeAM, WATLINGTON Tel: 0845 456 4567 or 101

MOdeRN HOuSING SOLuTIONS (MHS) Help desk, Tel: 0800 707 6000 option 4

HOuSING ALLOCATION SeRvICe CeNTRe (HASC) Tel: 0800 169 6322 / 94510 8000email: [email protected] (eastern Region)

MARHAM LOdGeS Bookings, Tel: Community Support Hub or (01760) 446136

SSAFA Tom Smith, Tel: (01760) 446051 ext: 6051Liz Smith, Tel: (01760) 446900 ext: 6900

SSAFA vOLuNTeeR CO-ORdINATOR Tel: 07984 908622

OC PSF Flt Lt Joanna Chubb, Tel: (01760) 337261 ext: 7489

YOuTH WORKeR Angela Caley, Tel: (01760) 446136 CS Hubemail: [email protected]. uk

THInK before you refuse an offer of Service Family AccommodationIf you refuse the offer for personal reasons you will be placed on a waiting list but there is no guarantee of when, or indeed whether, a future offer will be made.

You may also see others being allocated SFA ahead of you. You should be aware that you are not likely to be granted permission to retain SFA at your old duty station and therefore you may need to make

the family chose to stay where they are, your entitlement to CeA (if you claim it) may be denied and may lead to your being required to make repayments of CeA.

Please seek advice before rejecting an offer. If you receive an offer of SFA but are not happy with it, for whatever reason, Don’T immediately reject it.

Please contact the SCSo, Wo PMS or the Chief Clerk who will liaise with the HASC, particularly if there are any medical or welfare grounds which may need to be taken into consideration.

your own arrangements for accommodation whilst you wait for a second offer.

There may also be other ramifications to consider. For example, where the Service person is deemed to be serving “voluntarily separated” because

which can be found at: www.gov.uk/defence-infrastructure-organisation-service-family-accommodation. By using the website you will find it easier to

apply for SFA (applying for and allocation of SFA), information on who to contact for repairs (repairs and maintenance) and much more. BY APPOINTMENT TO

HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II WASTE DISPOSAL

CONTRACTORS

WasteDisposal

• Licensed Transfer Station• Skip Hire 2 cubic yards to 16

cubic yards• Roll on/Roll off 16 cubic

yard to 40 cubic yards• Wheelie Bin Service - Trade

Commercial• Septic Tanks & Cess Pools• Interceptors• Cardboard & Paper

Merchants• Plastic & Wood Merchants

www.baco-compak.com

01553 630247BACO COMPAK (NORFOLK) LTD

Innisfree Trading Estate, Bawsey, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE32 1EX

Motorcycle servicing, repairs, spares, tuning, modifying,

restoration.For more info please see our website

www.icenimotorcycles.co.ukNarborough Garage, Main Road, Narborough PE32 1TE

Tel: 01760 444359

SPECTRUM FINANCIAL PLANNING

Independent Financial Advice for all your financial needs

Contact: Peter Oddey APFS Tel: 01366 348037

Chartered Financial Planner www.spectrumfinancialplanning.co.uk

Address: Fodderston Mill, Mill Road, Shouldham Thorpe, Kings Lynn, PE33 0EA

Spectrum Financial Planning is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

Tel: 01522 868636Fax: 01522 868806

www.redrosepavements.co.ukMember of Jointline Group

Specialists in Airfield & Highway MaintenanceAirfield View, Camp Road

Witham St Hugh’sLincoln, LN6 9TW

Don’t forget to visit:

www.marhamhub.co.ukfor the latest news & information




Doors will open at 6pm, and entrance will be £1.50 per person on the door. Tickets will be on sale for the raffle.

There will also be an auction and a DJ providing the disco. Prizes include two premier tickets to newmarket Racecourse, and one night stay for two (including breakfast) at the Victory Service Club in London, in addition to many other prizes donated from local companies.

For more details contact the Bull Cafe or The Hive.

WHeRe:In the Chaplaincy oasis Lounge at RAF Marham.

dATeS:February: 13th & 27thMarch: 13th & 27thApril: 10th & 24thMay 8th & 22ndJune: 12th & 26thJuly: 10th & 24thAugust: 14th & 28thSeptember: 11th & 25thoctober: 9th & 23rdnovember: 13th & 27thDecember: 11th

WHeN:2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month 9.30am to 11.30am.

HeALTH vISITORS:Karen Williams and Rachel Holman

CNN: Jan Penniston, 01760 725305

Child Health Care Clinics for 2013

Thursday 7th March 2013

disco, Raffle & Auction in aid of Scotty’s Little Soldiers

The food will be distributed to worthwhile causes by the Salvation Army and the Methodist Church. Many thanks to all those Marham residents who contributed.

Christmas Food Collection

In addition to Leiby from Salvation Army, the picture below shows two 2nd Marham (RAF) Scouts; Bradley Bywater and nathan Goble and two Scout leaders Vikki Howard and Tim Peers.

Representatives from the 2nd Marham (RAF) Scouts at the handover to The Salvation Army of the Christmas food collection.

The Royal British LegionKings Lynn Club Ltd

Mental Health & Wellbeing

On behalf of the club committee and staff we openly invite Royal Air Force Marham personnel and their families to come and join us in utilising our club facilities and bar.

enjoy our family friendly atmosphere, “whether it’s a night out or just popping in for a hot tea or coffee whilst shopping.”

MONdAY TO THuRSdAY: 11am till 2.30pm and 7pm till 11pmFRIdAY TO SATuRdAY: 11am till 3pm and 7pm till 11pmSuNdAY: 12noon till 3pm and 7pm till 10.30pm

For further information regarding our weekly entertainment and functions or to book a function of your own. Please call: 01553 767887.

Providing help and welfare to the serving and the ex-Service community and their families.

Rainbows &brownies

There is now a new way to

put your daughters’ name

down for Rainbows, Brownies,

Guides and Senior Section.

Parents can visit the following website www.

girlguiding.org.uk/interested to register

your daughter. You can see all of the

units that are available locally and

choose the right one for you.

FRIdAYS, 6PM TILL 7.30PMDrop-in for Year 7 to 9’s

FRIdAYS, 8PM TILL 9.30PMDrop in for Year 10+ (Year 9’s can come to either of the clubs

RAF Marham Youth ClubTueSdAYS, 6PM TILL 7.30PM Drop-in for 8 year olds (Year 6)

WedNeSdAYS, 7PM TILL 9PMexpress Yourself Music Workshops for 8-18 year olds

COS Health staff have provided some details advising personnel on where they can go for help with mental health and wellbeing issues.

The information is at our website and contains, amongst

RAF Marham

Saddle Club

There are a limited number of the “Rewards for Forces” Discount Directory 2013 available in the HIVe or go to www.rewardsforforces.co.uk for more information on the discounts available online.

exAMPLeS OF SOMe OF THe dISCOuNTS TO be FOuNd ON THe WebSITe:• Easyjet holidays offering 5% discount• Europcamp holidays offering up to 40% discount.

All offers are subject to terms and conditions which can be found on each of the offers

other things, details of the ‘Big White Wall’, where personnel can talk online anonymously and discuss matters either one-to-one or in a group: www.raf.mod.uk/community/wellbeing/mentalhealthandwellbeing.cfm

SAddLe CLub CONTACTSOIC:Sgt Paula Warburton, Tel: 01760 337261 ext: 6344 / 9 5951 6344

MeMbeRSHIP:Tommie Gross, Tel: 01760 339790

A taster session will be held on Tuesday 12th February from 6pm onwards, at the Blackborough end equestrian Centre, east Winch Pe32 1SF.Open to Forces Personnel, MoD Personnel and Dependants aged over 16. There will be groups for beginners, novices and experienced riders, but only 12 places will be available at each session.

Please get in touch with Tommie for further information email: [email protected]

Please check the Marham Hub for information regarding half term activities by visiting www.marhamhub.co.uk.

WedNeSdAYS, 7PM TILL 9PMexpress Yourself Music Workshops for 8-18 year olds

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Everyone is welcome to browse for a bargain or to bring along unwanted clothes, toys, DVDs, or household items (sorry no electrical items) for sale by the shop.

If you would like an account please speak to the staff in the shop who will gladly explain the terms and conditions and how an account works.

30% of money generated by sales is retained and donated to local good causes and 70% goes back to the customer who provided the goods for sale.

The Thrift Shop also welcomes any old clothing, shoes, handbags or belts which are sold for rags.

OPeNING TIMeS:Monday to Friday: 9am till 2.30pm Thursday: 5pm till 7pm‘Take In’ days: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday (evenings only)

The Station Thrift Shop is located outside the main gate between the Spar Shop and the CS Hub.

RAF Marham Thrift Shop

First stop, Burger King for a bite to eat and 20% off the bill, already saved half the cost of the card.

next, clothes shopping: Blue Inc, Burtons and officers Club, 10% discount in each, so the card has paid for itself already. Quick shop in Iceland and 10% discount off the bill with the “Iceland Discount” card - another saving. The Iceland card arrived with my Defence Discount Services Card (this offer is only available till July

ForcesdiscountsHaving just received my “Defence Discount Service” card, I felt I had to give it a go, so off I went to do some shopping in Cambridge.

2013) and the Iceland card expires on 28th February 2014.

The card gives you the chance to take advantage of huge range of discounts, whether online, on the high street or even to get some cashback.

For more information and to apply, go to the link below: www.defencediscountservice.co.uk

Rewards for Forces




PARANORMANPG, 92 mins A misunderstood boy

takes on ghosts, zombies and grown-ups to save his town from a centuries-old curse.

SKYFALL 12A, 143 mins Bond’s loyalty to M is

tested as her past comes back to haunt her, bringing MI6 under attack.

LOOPeR15, 119 mins In 2074, when the mob

wants to get rid of someone, the target is sent 30 years into the past, where a hired gun awaits. Someone like Joe, who one day learns the mob wants to ‘close the loop’ by transporting back Joe’s future self.

FRANKeNWeeNIe PG, 87 mins Young Victor conducts

a science experiment to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life, only to face unintended, sometimes monstrous, consequences.

HOTeL TRANSYLvANIAu, 91 mins

Dracula, who operates a high-end resort away from the human world, goes into overprotective mode when a boy discovers the resort and falls for the count’s teenaged daughter.

THe THRee STOOGeSPG, 92 mins

While trying to save their childhood orphanage, Moe, Larry, and Curly inadvertently stumble into a murder plot and wind up starring in a reality TV show.

TAKeN 212A, 92 mins In Istanbul, retired CIA

operative Bryan Mills and his wife are taken hostage by the father of a kidnapper Mills killed while rescuing his daughter.

MAdAGASCAR 3PG, 93 mins Alex, Marty, Gloria and

Melman are still fighting to get home to their beloved Big Apple. Their journey takes them through europe where they find the perfect cover: a traveling circus, which they reinvent - Madagascar style.

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NO MeMbeRSHIP IS RequIRed A small donation of £1 per person would be gratefully received upon entry, to help maintain this service.

OPeNING TIMeS Sunday Doors open at 2pm and the film starts at 2:30pmMonday Doors open at 7pm and the film starts at 7:30pm

Film listings for…

February

HOW TO FINd uS… Located in the refurbished Louis Bar Function Room (Grafton Club) shown on the large screen in a relaxed, comfortably seated atmosphere.

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Due to postings and children growing up, the following groups are looking for leaders to help with running the groups: Tums2teenies, Kiddie Gym and Marham Baby & Toddlers.

even if you don’t want to be a leader but can spare a couple of hours or have young children and want to help support these great groups, please go along and have a chat with the group leaders or call into the CS Hub for more information.

Major Gary Walker, who some of you will know from his time with II(AC)Sqn and TIW where he worked as the Ground Liaison Officer, is about to change uniform and reinvent himself as Flt Lt Gary Walker, OC Community Support Flight.

Gary is a local boy, having being born and bred in West norfolk and is therefore very familiar with both the area and the Station having spent a total of nine years at Marham, albeit in very operationally focussed roles. However, he is looking forward to the new challenge of Community Support and although doesn’t officially take over until next month is already starting to get his feet under the table.

other changes will see new faces in the HIVe, with the departure of Stevie Lewis and Jane Murdoch, both of whom will be sorely missed, about to leave for pastures new. The appointment of Stevie’s and Jane’s replacements are in the process of taking place so more on the later. FSgt Terry norman, who is the very familiar face of Community Support will remain but is taking on a much more housing focused role, working out of the new Housing Hub located in Woodview.

Further details of the changes will follow in the next edition of Marham Matters, although in the meantime it is all very much business as usual.

Changes in Community SupportChanges are taking place within the Community Support Flight here at RAF Marham with a face many of you will know taking over as oC.

Group Leaders and Helpers Wanted!

RAFAGive as you earn Payments Through JPAThe Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) has increased the amount of their monthly membership subscriptions recovered through JPA from £1.77 to £2.03 per month with effect from the January 2013 pay statement. The annual gross cost of RAFA membership will therefore be £24.36; however after tax relief the actual amount payable will be £19.50, which is the same as other Ordinary Members are already paying.

If an individual member pays tax at the higher rate they are able to claim back tax relief on these payments at 40%; but the onus is on the individual to do this through their annual tax return. In addition, if an individual is paying to more than one charity through GAYe, then their JPA payslip will only show the cumulative total, not each separate charitable donation.

Full details on the Royal Air Forces Association’s work with the serving community, our families and veterans, together with the benefits of becoming a member, can be found at: www.rafa.org.uk

The Crossings Veterinary CentreSaint John’s Way, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 0QQ

01366 382219 (24 hours emergency cover)

Professional and Personal• Modern, spacious purpose built premises • All staff and facilities on one site

• Easy access with dedicated parking including disabled spaces • Fully independent • Free consultations with nurses

• Mixture of open surgeries and appointments for your convenience • Full medical and surgical facilities • Dedicated sterile operating theatre

• Dedicated dental suite • Full x-ray facilities • Ultrasound facilities • In-house laboratory • ECG facilities • Separate dog and cat wards

• Isolation ward • 24 hour nursing cover available • Computerised record keeping • Pet Passport and Export Services

• Only 2 veterinary surgeons ensuring continuity of care

Opening Times; Monday to Friday 8.30am-6pm Saturday 9.30am-12.30pmConsultations; Open surgeries; Monday to Friday 9am-10am

Saturday 10am-11.30amAll other consultations by appointment

Go to www.crossingsvets.co.uk for all the latest surgery

news Email: [email protected]

Our new purpose built premises continue to receive plaudits but many clients still comment on the easy access and ample parking which we are able to provide with our convenient location on the outskirts of town. We continue to maintain the personal and professional service that our clients are accustomed to. We warmly welcome new clients who wish to register with us.

As part of our aim to give something back to the community we recently purchased a full set of match shirts for the Swaffham under 9’s rugby team. We hope to extend this to other age groups in the future. Now the quality of the shirts can match the quality of the rugby!

Great Ketlam Farm Pentney01760 338933

www.energise-pentney.co.uk

Large selection of clothing fabrics.Burda, Simplicity & Butterick patterns in stock.

Extensive range of haberdashery items.Alterations & repairs to clothes undertaken.

Sewing Machine Sales & Service. Having trouble finding clothes you like, or that fit?

We make garments to order from any of our fabrics.1 Lynn Road

Downham Market(by the traffic lights)

Telephone: 01366 387147Open: 9am to 5.30pm

closed Wed & Sun

Christmasfabrics

& Ribbons in stock

CAMBRIDGE ARMY & NAVY SUPPLIES STORE

Used and new military clothing & equipment

39a St. Andrews StreetTel: 01223 576564

www.squaddie-direct.co.uk

20 MARHAM MATTeRS ISSUe 1, 2013 ISSUe 1, 2013 MARHAM MATTeRS 21‘deliver battle Winning Air Power for Current and Future Operations’ www.marhammattersonline.co.uk

23 Bridge Street, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 9DWTelephone: 01366 384414

www.floristdownhammarket.co.uk

There’s nothing better than answering the door to find someone is delivering you a beautiful bouquet.

Make someone’s day extra special by ordering them one of our fantastic floral designs.

We cover a large delivery area & can get flowers sent anywhere in the UK or abroad.Visit our website to get some ideas or give us a call to discuss your requirements.

We also offer a large selection of gifts, including plants, vases, chocolates, balloons, teddies etc.

Flower Corner49 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1AG

Telephone: 01553 774544 www.flowercornerfloristry.co.uk

All major credit cards accepted

Elizabeth the FloristThe Berney Arms, Barton Bendish

Open 7 days a week

For Traditional Beers, Good Food and a Warm Welcome

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR SPECIAL VALENTINE’S MENU

Open from Monday to Saturday from 12 noon to 11pm & Sundays from 12 noon to 10pm

A selection of Hot & Cold Home Cooked Food served from Monday to Thursday 12 noon to 9pm

Friday & Saturday 12 noon to 9.30pm

Sunday from 12 noon to 8pm

Afternoon Cream teas, plus a wide range of Teas & Nestlé Gran Cru Coffee

Check out the website for details of all the menus and the diary of events - www.theberneyarms.co.uk

or call 01366 347995

Phil, Sue and the team will be happy to help with any enquiries

See us in the Daily Mail Review - ‘An Inspector Calls at...

the Berney Arms in Bartons Bendis, Norfolk’ www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1353798/The-Berney-Arms-Barton-Bendish-Norfolkreview.html

Find your perfect gifts at

1 Eastgate StreetShouldham, Kings Lynn

Norfolk, PE33 0DD

Tel: 01366 348039We provide a tranquil home from home as well as a high standard of quality meals, produce and service.

Whether you want to come in for a cappuccino and a tea cake or a candlelit meal for that special occasion we hope that you will come and see us.

Three en-suite rooms available to hire, and we are happy to give a 10% discount to RAF personnel and their families.

The farm shop stocks locally made soup, chutneys and jams as well as local free range eggs and ales and ciders from local brewers.Convenience products are stocked too.

The gallery adjacent to the farm shop represents local artists as well as stocking prints, costume jewellery, glass, ceramics, small furniture, second hand books and much more.

If you’d like more information on any of our products or services, please call Andrew.


FeATuReS JUnIoR LeADeRSHIP CoURSe


The purpose of the course was to promote teamwork, communication skills, self confidence, and personal development through a number of theoretical and practical leadership exercises.

The day began with the gathering of personal in the LSS tea-bar. As we waited for our instructors there was an air of intrigue, especially when it came to the five minute presentations which were expected to give. They turned out to be varied and interesting to say the least.

We were briefed accordingly by our Instructors including CT Martin evans

Written By: FS Fido

Junior Leadership Course Thirteen members of RAF Marham’s Supply Squadron (LSS) and 2 AeSF personnel embarked on the Junior Ranks Leadership Course.

from AeSF and given written leadership techniques that would help us throughout the day.

As a group we were expected to rise to the challenge of six practical exercises. The first was a test of map reading and setting up a camp, which we would use throughout the rest of the day. The first lead fell to SAC Baker-Jones from LSS. Showing enthusiasm and drive, he delivered the brief to the rest of the group and we set out on our way into the wildness. Upon receipt of all necessary items we erected our wind tunnel of a tent

and a debrief was given on his performance by our instructor FS Fido and the LSS Sqn Wo.

The other part of the leadership training exercise was to give a five minute presentation each on a subject matter we knew well. The presentations ranged from feather fence building to software programming and more practical ones such as

paper airplane making. They were all diverse and gave the group an insight into their comrade’s personalities and interests.

As the day ended and tents were packed away, there was a sense of achievement felt by all in both groups. It was clear that not only were we tired but the day had given us all an insight into briefing techniques and other responsibilities that will be expected of us as JnCo’s in the future.

A comprehensive debrief was given back in LSS HQ by the instructors and feedback requested. In summary a good day had by all.

‘The first was a test of map reading and setting

up a camp, which we would use throughout

the rest of the day.’The Marham Gardening Club, now in its third year, has 26 gardening plots situated behind the infant school. The site also comprises communal sheds, water butts, 60ft poly-tunnel and fruit cage.

The club has been set up as a clearing house for information on growing, so even if you have little or no experience there will be someone who will know. Marham Infants School currently have three plots that they use as outdoor education for the pupils. Allotments are now available in sizes; 15m x 5m and 7.5m x 5m. Priced very reasonably at £30 and £15 respectively per annum.

For more information or to acquire an allotment please contact the Marham HIVe or Cpl Conway, Club Chairman on ext: 7161

Have ever wanted to grow your own fruit or vegetables? You can now do so at RAF Marham.

Gardening Plots at RAF Marham

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FeATuReS SIF noRFoLK BRoADS CRUISeR


Above: Corkey Too

Pictured: One of the many Traditional

windmills located on the Norfolk Broads

Left: White Lady

How to bookThis facility is only available to military personnel. once you have decided when you wish to book please contact either SAC French or SAC Ryman (Military: 95922 3308), who will process your information and will email you back with a preliminary confirmation, the following information should be included in you email.• Name and Rank • Contact Details (Including Mobile No.) • Dates for Cruise

on 21st September, the SIF acquired a 37ft Connoisseur six berth norfolk Broads Cruiser that had originally been built in March 1979 for the broads hire fleet industry.

throughout, replacing the domestic power and refurbishing the upholstery with the help of a local interior design company from norwich.

The aim was to complete the refurbishment and have the cruiser back in the water by the end of March, ready for the 2009 summer season. As with all major refurbishments, initially things didn’t go to plan with more work being found that needed attention as the project progressed. over the five-month period, the Wo himself spent many hours using his spare time working alongside the Marine engineers to keep the labour costs down and later in the second phase, the remaining members of the team also worked hard to keep the project on time and on budget. Finally, on 9th April 2009, the refurbishment of the cruiser was complete at a total cost of £21,033, just one day before the first customer was due to take the craft out on its first booking of the season. Five months on, while the cruiser may still be a 1979 vessel from the outside, she has had almost everything replaced and is essentially a new craft inside.

The vessel, named ‘Corkey Too’ is situated in the heart of the norfolk Broads and between 2009 and 2012, has been a very popular facility, used by military personnel from all three services, providing much needed rest and holiday opportunities for all in a part of the UK that is one of the finest and largest inland waterways.

However, the story does not stop there. The craft has been well used over the years and a further update was required by the end of

Image: © Unconcerned, www.stockfreeimages.com

useful Links • Norfolk Broads Official Tourist

Information www.norfolkbroads.com• Broads Authority www.broads-authority.gov.uk• Enjoy the Broads www.enjoythebroads.com• Horning (Norfolk) www.horningnorfolk.org.uk• The Ferry Inn Pub (Horning) www.ferrycarvery.co.uk

SIF Norfolk broads Cruiser

the 2011 season. An opportunity to prepare and present a replacement bid to SIF Central funds was submitted by Wo Lay-Flurrie who’s dedication to this asset has seen him through highs and lows and to cut a very long story short, has once again successfully been granted a significant grant to replace ‘Corkey Too’ and in July 2012 saw the ‘Berth’ of a new craft called ‘White Lady’, a much classier craft by far known as a Sovereign 34, also a six berth craft, which has now taken to the water for the first time on 3rd August 2012. Wo Lay-Flurrie in confident that SIF now has an extremely attractive and unique facility on one of the most beautiful areas of the British Isles, which is provided in the true traditions of SIF. As for Corkey Too, well this old lady has been very well looked after and her future has not been decided and may well be part of the RAF in the future – in spirit at least.

year and as a result, the 2008 season

was fully booked by the end of 2007. Job

done you might think, but the increase in the

craft’s use had a devastating downside that saw this ageing

lady of the water develop major mechanical issues on a regular basis leading to a high number of callouts. During the 2008 season, it became a full time role to keep her going with Unit personnel, led by the Wo giving a lot of time at evenings and weekends to undertake on the spot repairs.

It was clear that this could not continue, so in July 2008 Wo Lay-Flurrie again set about raising a case to save the facility from being lost and this time, with the help of oC FDS at RAF Marham, was successful in raising £21k of which £17k was granted from SIF Central fund to enable a major refurbishment programme. After a month of careful planning, on 1st november 2008, Wo Lay-Flurrie with the help of two members of the committee commenced the cruisers overhaul. once started, the project was planned to take place in two phases with the first by the Marine engineers at Boulter Marina in Horning, under the direction of their chief engineer, who would replace all the old mechanical parts, including the hydraulics, prop shaft, gears, roof mechanism and engine, with work due to finish by the end of January 2009. The second phase was undertaken by the project team themselves. This involved overhauling the interior of the craft, re-wiring the electrics

Initially, this was run by staff from RAF Coltishall until the station closed in 2006. In 2005, as part of the closure of the base, the future of this valuable facility was very much in doubt, particularly as one year earlier, RAF Coltishall’s neighbouring Station RAF Neatishead also closed, although Neatishead survived as a Remote Site, manned by a small number of RAF ICT technicians. Warrant Officer Steve Lay-Flurrie, the Unit Adjutant of the newly formed Remote Unit, keen to retain this valuable asset, set about raising funds and a business case to save the craft from being lost for good.

The case proved successful and in February 2006, the administration for the cruiser was transferred to neatishead. At this point, it wasn’t clear if the small Unit could make the venture work, as most if not all the Unit members at the time had never seen a boat of this size and nature, let alone looked after one. Determined the venture would be successful, a committee was put together and in less than six weeks and the craft was up and running in time for the 2006 summer season. needless to say, there was a steep learning curve, with minor repairs and ongoing servicing required before she could be used. The 2006 season saw the craft being used on the broads on a regular basis, but much more was needed to enhance this asset. So, during the winter period leading up to the 2007 season, a major publicity campaign took place, with the intent of reaching as many Units as possible to highlight the availability of this unique facility. In response, bookings came in from far and wide with growing interest from all three services. It was therefore no surprise that 2007 was a hugely successful

SPoRTInG eXCeLLenCe AWARDS HONOuR & AWARdS

Held at Halton House on the 23rd November 2012 and attended by Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Dalton, Chief of the Air Staff and President of the RAF Sports Board. RAF Marham saw three members of FES nominated within the categories.

Sgt Ann Thomas was nominated Sports Woman of the Year, whilst Cpl John Williams and Cpl neil Richardson formed part of the RAF Safety Boat and Cycling Team nominations respectively. Prior to the awards ceremony there is an informal opportunity for the presenting officer to meet all of the nominees. The CAS took a great interest in the achievements of all the nominees and in his closing address indicated his pride and admiration for what individuals had achieved and how they ultimately portrayed the RAF within both the Forces and the wider public domain.

The format of the ceremony sees each category nominee’s citations read out and then the winner announced. As you would expect from 2012 the majority of citations

Sport is one of the pinnacle aspects of service life and the RAF Sports Board seeks to recognise sporting achievement each year at the Sporting excellence awards.

had an olympic influence and it can not be overemphasised as to the quality of each nomination and its suitability to be considered for an award. As each citation is read it is clear to not only the audience but the nominees themselves that anyone is capable of winning and the selection of an overall winner must have been an extraordinarily difficult task.

Sgt Ann Thomas, nominated for Sports Woman of the year Award for her sport of Powerlifting, was runner up to an individual who had been capped 50 times for Wales and was a reserve for the GB ladies Football team for the olympics.

Cpl John Williams was a member of the RAF Safety Boat Team, who was nominated for Team of the Year. His involvement and team efforts saw them participate both in the 2012 olympics and Paralympics. Cpl neil Richardson was part of the RAF Cycling team, nominated for its impressive achievements over the sporting year. Both sports however lost out to the RAF Football Association for Team of the Year.

Flt Lt Des Moroney, oC eSF attended the event as support for the nominees and commented “it was fantastic for FeS and the Station to be represented by such excellent sporting success at the awards and although none of the individuals were winners their achievements and individual success is something that FeS and RAF Marham are immensely proud of. It is testament to their dedication and determination that despite the heavy operational commitments, particularly over the last 12 months, that these individuals have achieved what they have, they are an inspiration and an example that we should all follow.”

Sporting excellence Awards

Beth [email protected]

07732 867904

Upper MarhamKing’s Lynn

PE33 9LL

Busy B’s Cleaning

Adding a little sparkle to

make march outs stress free

THE OLD GRANARY ANTIQUES

CENTREKing’s Staithe Lane

KING’S LYNN Tel: 01553 775509

Selling antiques and collectables

Open Mon - Sat 10am to 4.30pm

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SCoTTY’S LITTLe SoLDIeRS & MARATHonS FoR LoLA CHARITY


There is currently no cure, but funds raised for the AT Society can help improve the lives of those living with the condition and pay for much needed research. Lola Bloomer has just been diagnosed with the condition, she is three years old.

Starting on Boxing Day 2012 and running through until 25 Jan 2013, Martin Hine, Charlie Clements, Iain Bushell, Yvonne Allenby, Sean LLoyd, Matt Young and Mark Seaward, all from Tactical Imagery-Intelligence Wing and deployed in Afghanistan, are running as many marathons as they can in a month.

Martin, Charlie and Iain have each pledged to run an incredible 13.1 miles (Half Marathon) each and every day; a total of 15 ½ Marathons! The group from TIW hope to raise over £2,000, with a goal of 50 Marathons in 31 days. Charlie, Martin and Iain need to complete 13.1 miles a day for a month.

Martin first heard about Lola from a friend who he used to work with at II(AC) Sqn, RAF Marham during the early 90’s. Lola is the daughter of a close friend and when he heard of her condition he felt he just had to help. He invited Martin to join his Mega-Tri Challenge and whilst training for this before Christmas, Charlie and Martin came up with the idea of ‘Marathon Month’.

The challenge is progressing well; so far they have been running for 22 days and covered the distance of 39 marathons.

Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) is a rare and complex genetic disorder.

TIW Raise Money for the AT Society

Marathons for LolaMartin, Charlie and Iain have run the equivalent of 11 marathons each! Most days they get up at 5am and run for an hour, they then run again later when they can get time in the day. They occasionally do the whole distance in one run but often have to break it down into one hour chunks as there are a limited number of running machines - and work always comes first. Although the team are keeping up the momentum for the challenge, their legs are beginning to tire, Charlie has had large blisters and Martin has lost a toe-nail. Charlie also ran the first day in Vibram rubber soled trainers with heat blisters on the soles of his feet. The hardest part about the running is the boredom of running on a treadmill and the fact that there is no air conditioning to counteract the oppressive heat. When they first talked about the challenge they felt it was important to run every day as Lola doesn’t get a day off from her condition - so why should they?

Flight Sergeant Martin ‘Marv’ Hine said; “This really is a tough challenge and harder than anything I’ve done before. After seeing a picture of Lola’s beautiful smile I was moved by the thought of her suffering and thought there must be something we can do to help.”

Corporal Sean Lloyd added: “A worthy challenge makes you sweat, bleed and cry; we are two thirds the way there.”

To support the group with their challenge here is a link to the Mega-Tri webpage: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/lolabloomer and the marathons for Lola page: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/marathons4lola

The idea behind the fundraiser was based around the first flight of the Squadron, 100 years earlier from Farnborough to Montrose, a return journey of about 1,074km.

To raise money for the King’s Lynn charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers, 100 personnel from the Sqn successfully cycled, ran and rowed the journey in 100 days while off duty. At the end of the event, the Squadron had covered over 108,000km! The fundraiser was a welcome distraction from what was a very busy and demanding period for the Squadron, their second time on operations in two years.

RAF Marham’s II (AC) Squadron Raise Money for Scotty’s Little SoldiersDuring their time in Afghanistan, II(AC) Sqn personnel raised £5,546.81 for local charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers.

Pictured: II (AC) Sqn presenting Scotty’s Little Soldiers charity with the cheque.

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SPORT AnoTHeR BUSY YeAR FoR MARHAM SWIMMeRS!


This year there were three additions to the RAF Swimming team from RAF Marham, Cpl Lynsey Carveth (Ped Flt), SAC Claire Hobbs (PSF) and SAC Eleri Davies (PSF).

AIR COMMANd Going back to March this year, a select few members of the RAF swimming team were invited to take part in an Air Command HQ Ramstein Swimming Championships in Poland over three days. Seven Air Forces across europe, including the USAF based in europe, took part and SAC(T) nicholas represented RAF Marham and RAFSA by competing in the 200m individual medley.

INTeR-ReGIONALSFollowing on from this was the RAF Inter-regionals competition held at RAF Cranwell. SAC(T) nicholas and SAC Hobbs were part of the east region squad comprising of over 13 RAF stations including Cyprus and personnel based in europe. SAC Hobbs performed brilliantly at her first RAF Inter-regional Championships alongside the east Region championships, swimming away with 2 Gold medals in the 100m and 200m Breastroke and a Silver medal in the 100m freestyle. SAC (T) nicholas also picked up two Gold medal positions in the 100m and 200m Breastroke. LANzAROTeAt the start of September this year 26 members from the RAF Swimming team journeyed out to ‘Club La Santa’ in Lanzarote a very popular sports and training resort for top athletes which was organised by SAC(T) nicholas. From RAF Marham Cpl Carveth, SAC(T) nicholas, SAC Davies and SAC Hobbs attended the training camp. The swimmers suffered six days of intense training in exhausting heat covering over 50km in the pool alone!! If this wasn’t enough Cpl Carveth competed in a gruelling half marathon finishing 2nd in a time of 1:50. SAC Hobbs and SAC(T) nicholas also competed in their first Triathlon with both finishing in the top 5 of the age categories.

INTeR SeRvICeSAfter a successful week of clocking up the miles not to mention the hours in the pool at Lanzarote, the RAF swimming team were

Swimming Success Another busy Year for Marham Swimmers! Last year saw swimmers from RAF Marham at their busiest yet, competing at all levels from the RAF Inter-Stations Championships to an Inter-nation Championship in Poland.

ready to take on the ARMY and nAVY at the most talked about Inter-Services of recent years. In 2011 the RAF lost to the navy by one point, so this year the RAF Swimming team were back with vengeance. CPL Carveth, SAC Hobbs and SAC Davies all competed in their first Inter-Services representing the RAF and Marham, and SAC(T) nicholas competed in his third inter services. Unfortunately in this instance through a very inexperienced team not through lack of effort the nAVY won the competition again. However there were extremely great things that came out of the inter services- Cpl Lynsey Carveth at her first inter services became joint female captain, and competed in the 200m individual medley and the 100m Butterfly, both extremely tough and competitive races. SAC Claire Hobbs also her first inter-service experience competed in the 100m and 200m Breastroke and showed the army that inexperience in a big competition doesn’t hold her back. SAC

INTeR STATIONSThe most recent competition was the Inter Station Swimming, Water polo and Diving Championships which was held at RAF Cranwell in november. RAF Marham’s station took a strong team of 9 which was headed up by Cpl Carveth and SAC(T) nicholas and also included Fg off Barker, Sgt Arthur, Sgt Davey, SAC(T) Coates, SAC(T) Duggan, SAC Hobbs and SAC Mockford. The team entered the water polo competition of which 5 out of the 7 had never played but put in a good strong solid performance coming 5th out of 6. SAC(T) Coates and SAC Hobbs represented RAF Marham in the Diving again both having never dived before, and saw a spectacular overall 5th position out of 7 for RAF Marham. However it was the swimming that saw all the action with a round of heats on the Thursday and the finals being held the following day. The RAF Marham men’s team put in a fantastic effort competing against many RAF Swimmers and a very strong team from RAF Brize norton. Some fantastic times were swam from the men however it was the ladies team comprised of Fg off Barker, Sgt Davey, Cpl Carveth and SAC Hobbs medal in either Gold or Silver medal position in every ladies event and win 3 out of 3 ladies relays. If that was not enough two ladies records were also broke with Cpl Carveth breaking the 50m Butterfly record and SAC Hobbs breaking the 50m Breastroke record. After competing hard against a very strong RAF Brize norton and RAF Cranwell team RAF Marham won and brought home the overall the ladies swimming trophy which is the first time RAF Marham has come home with a swimming trophy. overall the team came a respective 4th and it was a great two days for the RAF Marham team.

RAF SWIMMeR OF THe YeARTo top off an extremely packed year of non-stop training and various competitions, Wg Cdr Damian orton Chairman of the RAF Swimming Association presented the Swimmer of The Year Award and Trophy to SAC(T) James nicholas (AeSF) for his dedication and commitment to RAF Swimming over the last year, a fantastic accolade to have achieved.

As you can see from everything above although we are on operations around the world and commitments through work and at home you can gain rewards from just putting a little effort into something you enjoy. RAF Marham Swimming Club is growing rapidly and they train regularly at Downham Market Leisure Centre. They are always looking for new people to come along and join in with training sessions which are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings, for more information please call ext: 7094 or ext: 6644.

eleri Davies receiving the hardest trainer award in Lanzarote, put in a sterling effort and competed against some very top athletes throughout the services in 100m and 200m Backstroke. SAC(T) James nicholas competed in the 100m Breastroke and 200m individual Medley picking up a Silver medal and a place in the Combined Service team!

dOWNHAM MARKeT MASTeRSAs well as competing for RAF SAC(T) nicholas and SAC Hobbs also compete in the civilian world of swimming too. Unfortunately for SAC Hobbs her commitment had to be put on hold as she was part of the working party during this year’s olympics held in London. Civilian competitions are held throughout the year all over the UK and this year alone saw SAC(T) nicholas picked up 32 swimming medals including a Gold medal for his first try at open water swimming in norwich in August.

Image: ©

Terex, ww

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ages.com

noRWICH HALF MARATHon CHARITY

The idea was first suggested in early August with an email sent round the Medical Centre. To begin with there were not many positive responses! However with the promise of a lot of food afterward, plus the obvious attraction of training in the dark, wind and rain- one by one the entries were made and the Team grew. The feeling of having ‘just done that’ is incredible and certainly added to motivation. Interestingly an initial ‘no’ had, by the end of September, changed to an apprehensive ‘yes’.

The Team had a photo shoot and the webpage was ready to go! Sqn Ldr James Gelnar, the Deputy Senior Medical officer at RAF Marham proved an excellent oIC and made sure our Just Giving web page had the full approval of Media ops!

The chosen charity for this event was Macmillan Cancer Support. Cancer affects everyone- whether directly or indirectly, it has a profound impact on our lives, and the lives of our family and friends. Sadly one of the Team members lost her Mother to cancer in october so it was wholly appropriate to raise as much money as possible for the charity. The majority of funds were raised through members independent and the

Norwich

Half MarathonA group of ten enthusiastic ‘runners’ from the Regional Medical Centre at RAF Marham ran in the Larkin Gowan City of norwich Half Marathon. The medical team raised over £1,300 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Team Just Giving web pages (complete with several cheesy photos).

There was a real mix of experience within the team. For some this was their first half marathon and way outside of their known comfort zone. not to imply that experience translates directly to ease on the day! It was a tough race for everyone! The wind was gale force and as the course was essentially a square (two laps of ) the runners had to overcome long stretches into head and side winds, able to see ahead, the forming of echelons back down the lane. A welcome respite from the wind was in the sheltered village of Marlingford, where a pub garden was full of joyous spectators cheering us on. The weather was not all bad, the sun shone brightly from the starting horn until cease of play over norwich Show Ground.

everyone in the Team who started the race finished it. This is the greatest end to any Team event. Thank you so much to everyone who sponsored us.

Also participating in this event was a team of six runners from Air Traffic Control, also fundraising for MacMillan. The team all did exceptionally well in completing the race in under 2 hours and 25 minutes raising over £600 for the charity.

Written By: SAC Lucy Kershaw, RAF Medic

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