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Great Yarmouth 40-08
-------------------------------------------------------------------- Those Who Attended:
40/08 REUNION REPORT Potters Leisure Resort
was chosen as a last minute decision on the back of the cancellation
of the Gibraltar trip because of insufficient numbers, which then
made it too expensive for those of us who still wished to go. FRIDAY:
SATURDAY:
After a good breakfast,
most of us decided to head by local bus to Yarmouth, although
Bob and Mandy Killey decided to visit some Gardens, which turned
out to be closed -which then saw them visiting a Garden Centre.
Vernon & Pat Phillips went in search of the Holy Grail or
at least a SUNDAY:
Steve Lister, along
with Rose and myself, decided to go into Lowestoft for a couple
of hours. The place turned out to be very pleasant, with a Prom
that was not too typical of your normal seaside front, such as MONDAY:
- During breakfast Steve Lister said his goodbyes and headed for
Preston, with Don and Jeanette not too long after, heading for
a one-night route stop at Harrogate - with still a long way to
go to Stornoway. The Stand at Ease - Dave Stinson To
the Photo's --------------------------------------------------------------------
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Mini Reunion 4006-10 - Ullswater W/E Fri/Sat 13/14th October 2006 REUNION REPORT
40/2006 REUNION
PATTERDALE, CUMBRIA
Saturday After
what proved to be a substantial breakfast, most of the group
elected to go on the Steamer trip some way up Ullswater. It
was rather brisk heading up the lake with the one stopping point
allowing keen walkers (not our group!) to get off and head towards
their walking paths. After a quick turn-round we returned to
our starting point. The trip certainly cleared the cobwebs away
for many of us: whilst most agreed taking in the wonderful scenery
all around us. Sunday
Those who attended
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2005 Reunion Report: Friday On arrival at the hotel the receptionist quickly volunteered that most of the group had already arrived and ventured an opinion that they were going to be a lively lot; certainly more alive than many of the guests that had been staying lately! The hotel was mainly a stopping point for coach trips by more sedate visitors! As usual, Brian Peacock ended up on point duty on the hotel steps meeting and greeting all those who arrived for the 40th Reunion, along with others who were not! Ivor and Linda Prosser were soon easily sighted when parking their PROSSER personalised number plated car outside the hotel. Parking was more restricted than first thought as a result of the Bank holiday weekend - although quite a few managed to squeeze into the rear hotel car park. The barman replied , when asked what time the bar opened: ’Right now. Have you seen the RAF crowd who have been arriving? They will be supping early and well into the night, too.’ I proudly told him I was part of the group and then ordered, in a quite whisper, 2 orange juices! Some of us wandered down the Prom, whilst others took advantage of the early bar opening. The weather was really kind and for many of us just getting a breath of sea air was a tonic after journeying. Elaine Justice had already hit the shops in the town. Elaine’s fame as a shopper is becoming well known amongst us. Paul, her husband, said that those in his local back home call her the bag lady for good reason! The evening meal proved to be of good quality, although the waiting staff appeared to have come from a different era. It was suggested that they had already retired a couple of times before taking this task up. At this time, four of our party had still not arrived. It partly explained itself when they turned out to be Southwesters: Dave & Shirley Lowe from Bristol and Lloyd & Ann Rosentall from Western-Super-Mare. Sandwiches had been arranged for them but they had already made on-route catering arrangements of their own. After dinner, the evening entertainer was seen being helped out of a car and making his way on a walking frame to the hotel entrance! So it proved, the first nights entertainment was rather dated, relying on the good spirits of those of in in the lounge. Nevertheless, quite a bit of dancing, or was it marching, took place. Bob Killey lead the way by trying to dance with as many ladies as possible. It was not too long before Eric May was heard above the dim and lively chatter. Eric has now become very much part of our reunions, and may that long continue. Eric did say, at one point, if we ended up like this every night in Cyprus we could be in trouble. Someone responded in the background saying: ‘What is this ‘we’ business?’ Sadly, we were not too well organised as regards the seating arrangement in the lounge and we ended up slightly splintered; although that was put right the following night. In the meantime, the singer, who had gone from bad to worse, so it seemed, along with makeup that was now running, did get slightly vexed when asked if we could make a formal presentation. He thought that his Eurovision act was being hijacked, even when he was told the presentation would only take 2 minutes. Ian and Wendy Waterhouse were presented with a card and a bottle of champagne to celebrate their 38th Wedding anniversary, it was then that the singer got into the act by asking them to dance. This was the first reunion for Ian and Wendy and they certainly entered into the spirit of the whole thing right from the very start. Congratulations again to Ian and Wendy on this 38th milestone from us all and come back real soon. Along with this, a collection was made for Joyce Cutbush, who had recently undergone a hip operation. It was agreed that flowers would be a most appropriate gift so Vern and Pat Phillips kindly made the arrangements for this. The flowers were duly delivered to Joyce on the Saturday, so we are hoping for her speedy recovery so they can once again join us in future reunions. The evening went well with photos and other memorabilia being passed around. It was not until I saw an old photo of Tony Sharrat, with his distinctive haircut, that I fully recognised him from boys. I think even his wife Susie was impressed with that long-ago hairstyle! The evening was a great success and ended early as we had a packed day ahead and we had some weary travellers amongst us. Already, old acquaintances had been revived and new ones quickly made - a really good omen for the future of our reunions. Saturday Breakfast was at 0815 (still a parade, which can’t be missed!) and one of the waiting staff, without mercy, reprimanded anyone who was late - this evoked memories of spending jankers in the tin room. This customer care would reflect later in the tips not left for the waiting staff and the observation made to the hotel about the forgotten maxim that the customer is always right - the hotel did promise that they would address this with the well known ‘individual’ who had previous form for this behaviour. Much to our surprise, Tom & Wendy Davis left the reunion venue. It was later found that their house minders, come cat sitter, had sadly let them down. It did result in a discussion regarding the way we should make new faces feel more welcome at future reunions. We came to the conclusion that we would use a sponsorship system approach next time to ensure new faces are met, introduced and shown the ropes. The emphasis would be on making them feel instantly welcomed; perhaps one of our little failings in the past? After breakfast, transport arrangements were made for those who would be visiting the nearby Conwy Castle. Some shared cars, others took the bus or taxi. Only a few declined and made their own alternative itinerary for the day. Some of us took advantage of the over 60s discount offered on the entrance fee to the Castle - although Sylvia Menzies, who did not quite qualify, was given it freely. The visit to the Castle was well worthwhile for the stunning views of Conwy bay. Bob Killey was heard to say it is a pity that they had allowed the Castle to go to ruin, having been built in 12 something or other. One couple, who were overheard, from the top of the battlements, seemed intent on looking for the torture chamber for ideas for their errant child who was now going through adolescence for the second time - suspect it could apply to some of us! Another couple (was it the Sharrats?) were doing a Romeo and Juliet scene using one of the large battlement towers! Some of us decided to visit the nearby preserved Elizabethan House in the local town. This turned out to be most interesting with helpful quides, apart from one surly female who ordered us to go in a certain direction only. Memories came flooding back of a certain 40th Cpl Boy Entrant Dave Winder, who we are still trying to locate. It was rather strange to see inside loos and even an en-suite in such an old house. The roof structure proved of great interest to Bob Menzies - perhaps it has given him some ideas for his new park home? After the Castle, most of us made our way back one way or another to Llandudno and the tram station at the foot of the Great Orme. It proved to be a spectacular view going up in the tram to the summit, although gusty winds awaited us at the top and this really curtailed our ambitions of looking around this lovely area. Most of us ended up in the summit café, part of a house once owned by former World Boxing Champion Randolph Turpin. Seemingly, only the previous day there had been a small reunion of former RAF Radar Technicians/Operators who had served at the Radar Station, which at one time was housed in the summit complex. A great pit we missed them as that would have been a wonderful encounter. The food offered in the summit complex was good although, as expected, a bit pricey. Some hardy souls ventured out onto the nearby slopes, bracing themselves against the gusting wind, to look at the spectacular views. A lot of us said we would return once again as it was such a fascinating place. My dear wife, Rose, wished to return and perhaps stay a night in the B&B which was said to be perched precariously on the edge of the Great Orme itself. Despite the gusting wind, some brave souls decided to walk down rather than go back on the tram, what with its open windows and having to change trams just above halfway. I do believe they got to the bottom of the Orme well before a party of us on the tram - having both started at the same time! Those walking along the prom soon found a large RAF recruiting display and spent time strolling around. Bob Killey even tried to re-enlist but was soon seen as a fraud when they spotted him wearing a demob blazer! Most surprising of all, was the appearance of the ‘Red Arrows’ shortly after 1600 hrs doing a 40 minute display over the seafront. As usual, they gave a superb display, this despite the gusting wind conditions, which had sadly ensured the cancellation of other aircraft taking part in the display. After the evening meal no time was wasted in securing nearly half of the lounge in preparation for the evenings entertainment. The singer turned out to be an improvement on Eurovision man from the previous night. Couples were soon up dancing, that is if they could get on the floor as the singer had crowded out the dance floor with his own family members - we soon changed that! What a wonderful surprise we had early in the evening when Ron Sear (Radar man) turned up unexpectedly. Seemingly, he had been yachting in the area and, in anycase lived in nearby Liverpool, so thought he would drop in. Ron found out about our Web Site just a short time ago; this all goes to prove that we still have many out there from the 40th who are unaware of our Reunions. However, we do know that the Squadron Researchers do a wonderful job trying to contact former lads and have been quite successful. Back to Ron, he seemed to be transfixed with a Cheshire cat grin all night - we were all rather pleased, too. A raffle was organised with the prizes mainly originating from RAF Cosford’s gift shop. Elaine Justice did a brilliant job selling tickets - not only to our group but also the barman, along with the reception staff. Enough money was made to cover postage costs for this function along with a reserve for the 2006 Reunion. We even had some left over, which has since been donated to the Cosford Air Ambulance Service. Must not forget Bob Killey kind donation of a jumper to the raffle that he had run up himself with the Cosford logo on along with Reunion 2005 details. This was won by Dusty Millar, who thought the coat hanger it was hung on was the first prize! Dusty proudly wore it the next morning (not the coat hanger!), and why not. The evening went really well, apart from poor Peter Lyver having to dash out and get his shoulder clicked back into place by his dear wife Mavis. Peter soon returned, determined not to be beaten. Memorabilia was still being passed around with firm promises from some to trace more of the lost 40th Boys. The ladies had by now really gelled with each other looking more and more as if they were the reason for the reunion rather than the men! The last two persons seen standing (just about) at the bar were Eric and Steve; as a consequence of this they were a bit adrift at the breakfast parade next morning. We have now found out who this ‘we’ is that Eric mentioned earlier! Sunday Rooms were quickly vacated and cars packed even before breakfast, some had a long way to go. Final farewells were made with firm promises of stopping in contact, Others, had already declared an interest in the 2006 Cyprus Reunion. It was suggested that we approach the 41st Entry Web Master (Steve volunteered to do this) and see if they would declare any interest in joining us in Cyprus so ensuring we get a bigger contingent. Someone, thought to be Dave Pottage, suggested we could with the 41st to clean our rooms and carry out other duties for us! Apologies (e-mail) and good wishes were received from Pat Stenning, who sadly could not make it. Pete had been hospitalised and was still slowly recovering. We wish him well and hope to see them both at future reunions. Summary All in all, the feedback from the weekend was positive with just a few minor problems: the stroppy waiter, the blustery winds on Saturday and perhaps the standard of the entertainment. On the bonus side, we had the appearance of the ‘Red Arrows’ and, more importantly, Ron Sear. It is always difficult to get everything right, but we will keep trying as long as we continue getting the wonderful support we have since our very first reunion. Some forward planning came out of a group conversation resulting in the firm intention that we now hold a reunion at Cosford in May 2010 to celebrate the passing of 50 years since we first arrived there as young boys. Luckily enough, most of us seem to be in good health - especially true of the lovely ladies who support us. Someone was overheard saying that Dave Lowe had not changed a bit since boys - obviously, with a little help from his dear wife Shirley and a good set of genes! Thanks to everyone for the continued support - See you in Cyprus, for those who can make it, otherwise please come back in 2007 to keep the spirit of the 40th going. Dave Stinson Those who attended
-------------------------------------------------------------------- 40/04 MINI-REUNION Report May 2004 by Dave Stinson
‘On arrival, at the Royal York Hotel, Blackpool, after battling up the M6 like a fighter pilot from WW2, I thought we would have been the first to arrive just after 1430hrs. Not so. Six couples had beaten us and already had their rooms made up for inspection! Brian Peacock had acquired the look-out post on the steps, a comfortable chair close to the main entrance and seemed to be contemplating if this position would ensure he was the billet orderly for Friday evening! Gradually, other began arriving or having done so, just making their way down the Prom on foot towards the North Pier, which was very close by. Car Parking space was proving to be a bit of an obstacle as like most hotels in Blackpool it was very restricted: although this seemed a small challenge when compared to first arriving at RAF Cosford, all those years ago, when the real challenge was keeping your bed space clean and remembering to park all your kit in the proper locker layout! The regulars to our Reunions, now acting like the Senior Entry, strutted around greeting all the first-timers who were certainly welcomed and added to the occasion. Don and Janette Maciver were amongst this category and had travelled down from the Western Isles by air. Thankfully, they had been re-united with the 40th through Brian Peacock and thought the whole thing wonderful. We started gathering in the bar at 1730 hrs and it would not be too long before the sandbags were pulled up. The Rev Roger Perry, along with his wife Veronica, soon integrated themselves into the occasion and Roger’s tales added a lively mix to those told by others on previous reunions. It was arranged with the Hotel that we would dine at 1830 hrs. I made the fatal mistake of introducing Dave, the General Manager, who was overseeing the Restaurant as the Manager. I was soon rebuked by him and was sharply reminded that status and rank is alive and well in civvy street, too. Having said that, he was brilliant along with all the Hotel staff during our stay - a letter will be sent to them for their great contribution. At dinner, we had a couple of ‘Absence on Parade’ Walla’s. Eric May had not been sighted, which was a bit puzzling as normally he is at the bar well before any of us. It was later, Eric was ‘thankfully’ to appear and managed to grab a sandwich from the bar, informing us all that he had obtained a discount on the price. I suppose, when you have your own business you have to keep account of these things for your accountant. During the meal Bob Killey turned up with his son and girl-friend and managed to eat before the kitchen closed down. Someone was heard to ask (was it Dave Cutbush?) had the Orderly Officer been in to check for any complaints? Friday evening saw two groups forming, one at the upstairs bar whilst the other group decided to take on the Cabaret downstairs with a singer trying to be a comedian; especially when it was pointed out by someone we were former Boy Entrants - this seemed to amuse him and furnish him with a few jokes. Old photos from the Cosford days were revealed and some of them came as a surprise to those in them. There must be a wealth of photos still out there with others who have not been found or attended any of our Reunions ‘Yet.’ For some, the travelling had decided a relatively early night was in order, whilst others managed to keep going with the tales and ales. Plans for Saturday had been formulated for one group by Elaine Justice, the Super Duper Shopafrolic from Hull. It was off to Fleetwood by the slow coach (the tram) to the Freeport shopping complex. It was admirable that Brian Peacock and Ian Duckham would travel with four couples (the Justices, Winnetts, Lowes & Stinsons) and see and hear things that Marriage Guidance Councillors and Psychologists never have access to. Having said that, the day was really first-class - with Brian and Ian returning well before us all for some unknown reason! The Macivers took the opportunity to visit the George Formby Exhibition and rated it highly. The so called free jazz at the Pleasure beach was a damp squib owing to the FA Cup Final displacing the jazz venue. Others, wandered through Blackpool or onto the piers. The weather could not have been finer; as Don was to find out by the end of the day!’ Steve Lister took the opportunity to visit an old friend from his Gulf Domain before returning to join us all. Saturday night, once again it was 2 groups forming, although this time one group used the upstairs lounge and this was where the marvellous idea for a week’s Reunion to be held in Cyprus (at Paphos) was conceived by Elaine Justice. After consultation with others, it was decided this would take place in 2006 as already some had made plans to visit overseas next year. Although, next years weekend Reunion would still go ahead as planned with details to be made known later in the year. The whole weekend was a great success and it was all down to the enthusiasm of those who attended to make it so. It is gratifying to know that we can still keep the memory of the 40th well and truly alive and be aided by the lovely ladies who always add to the occasion and who are now certainly part of the mechanism for ideas and improvements to make each Reunion better than the last. Finally, lets hope we can persuade others to come along and add to our numbers. Perhaps, the Cyprus idea may just do this? The 40th Reunion Committee ------------------------------------------------------------------- 40/42 REUNION Highlights 16/17 May 2003 by Dave Stinson
The old familiar faces (hadn’t Dusty Millar lost weight since 40/40, and it suited him) began to appear in the Lounge of the Seascape Hotel even before 1400 hours, the earliest reporting in time. It appeared, some of us had managed to follow the detailed instructions on how to find the Hotel right until the last half-mile, when we got lost! Obviously, our map reading training to get us over Dartmoor in 1961 had gone somewhat rusty? The Hotel car parking was so restricted that it was a case of the early arrivals being blocked in for the rest of the weekend by later arrivals. This did not unduly matter, as our cars became baggage ‘not wanted on voyage’ until Sunday morning. Those very late arriving (apart from the railway children) had to find themselves nearby alternative car parking. All of them succeeded with this. It was amazing to see the amount of kit that some had decided to bring along. I am sure it mentioned nothing in the Joining Instructions about a Kit Inspection? It was difficult to recognise those who’s first Reunion this would be. It was not until later, when they put on their name badges, that all would be revealed. Mistakenly, I asked, someone standing at the reception desk, handling the name badges, what Squadron he was on. He jokingly said: ‘I am maintenance Squadron, always ready for action 24 hours a day.’ He turned out to be the Maintenance man, looking for Phil, or his wife Jackie, the Hotel owners, and had been warned of the RAF Reunion and was not quite sure if it meant a lot of work would come his way after it was all over! When he saw we were all re-cycled teenagers he chuckled and wished us a fantastic weekend. I assured him the only problem would be carpet bombing as a result of spilt drinks later on! Some of us took the opportunity, once booked in, to wander into Torquay centre and around the harbour enjoying the pleasant spell of dry weather. The last time most of us were in town like this was when we were given the day out here, whilst on Summer Camp. One group (2 Sqn) reported they were eyed up most suspiciously by an elderly looking shop-keeper who they thought may have recognised them as those boys in blue uniform, from all those years ago, who had staggered into his outside display of fruit and vegetables after a heavy drinking session of two pints of lager and lime! Somebody else commented on the fact that the fish in the harbour appeared to be so much smaller in size and number, whilst some gulls had become enormous with others having moth-eaten feathers. Some bright Spark (Teleg, naturally!) said we now, too, fitted that description. Several of us tried to hide behind each other trying not to resemble that remark! The bar was opened at 1730 hrs and it did not take long for the first orders to be placed, after all, most of us had driven a long way and this would be our first real watering hole, so to speak! The evening meal was served at 1830 hrs in the downstairs (steep they were, at that) dining room. After the evening meal most of us retired immediately back to the Lounge, once we had conquered the stairs. Someone was heard to say the last time he climbed such steep steps was when entering a Hastings aircraft in Malta and it took him two attempts then. This, he said, was the result of rubber leg syndrome, caught, so he thought, from a dirty glass the night before when he had his leaving Do! It was at this point that many decided to look at the memorabilia that had started to accumulate on the display table. A lone voice, from the table, was heard saying he could not find himself on the Sqn group photograph but managed to pick out his son! Friday evening was to be an informal one and so it rightly proved. The evening entertainment started at 2030 hrs and this was provided by Black Country Man (his description) who, not only sang and played the guitar, but also told jokes and generally made fun of some of us in the room. He turned out to be the ideal choice for the evening and quickly had couples on the dance floor. Our only bedpan mechanic (Bill Avery, along with his lovely wife Janet), turned out to be - surprisingly enough, our star dancer and made Lionel Blair look quite pedestrian. It was really pleasing to see the ladies settling in fast and, of course; saying how young we lads all still looked! Seriously, it was definitely the right decision to include the ladies in our Reunions and long may that format continue. As the evening wore on Eric May kept threatening, between dances and pints, to take one of the two side drums that were on display. These drums were used by the Boy Entrant Bands and are now kept secured at Cosford. They were needed back at Cosford for a medal presentation ceremony on Monday so needed to be returned as issued. The night Porter was briefed later on, about the importance of guarding these drums through the night. Taff Winnett alleges he found the night Porter early the next morning sleeping across them! It was well after 0100 hrs when most of us (apart from those few on Light Duties, who had left earlier) finally got to our allocated bedspace, having long gone past lights out without realising it - Dear old Sergeant Jolliffe must have been turning in his grave? Saturday morning, at breakfast, saw a few bleary-eyed lads who remembered it was a chargeable offence to miss this meal so had to parade, if only for tea, toast and some sympathy! The planned Coach trip, under its able organiser, Barry Mayne, left just after 0940 hrs and made its way slowly to Dartmoor. Bob and Sylvia Menzies followed us in their 4-wheel drive as they had brought along with them their two dogs - now made honoury canine members of the 40th Entry! Dartmoor, as we drove through it, was overcast and uninviting. This was a real contrast to when we were all last here together for our 3 day trek across it; when many of us got sunburnt and dreamt one day in the future that someone would invent sun blockers! Later, when we stopped at Princetown (with the Prison a little too close for comfort) for a refreshment break (a few headed for the nearest Pub) many echoed the thoughts, ably reflected in Dave Pottage’s face, we all felt being once again on Dartmoor. Last time it was in our youth, when the world was our oyster and this time some of us have real problems getting oysters open! However, we all did have that common thread that now appears to bind us together and ensures we are still around to pour and taste the vintage wine - of course, drinking a toast to absent and departed friends from the 40th Entry. After Princetown, we drove out to the supposed car park that we were all dropped off at to start our 3-day Dartmoor trek in 1961. There was some argument about this being the right location and some thought we had been dropped off, in our teams, at various sites. It was generally agreed, however, that this was the original assembly point for the initial briefing! It was raining when we got off the bus and the only other person to be seen around was the solitary ice cream man in his regulation issue van. Amazingly, the ice cream man turned out to be a former Cosford Boy Entrant from the 16th entry. This was verified when he said he could remember painting the entry sign on Fulton Block! A voice on the coach thought we should be entitled to free ice creams, another said, as we were the Sprogg entry, he would probably want us to sell his ice creams whilst he took a kip in the back of the van. After this, we made our way to Plymouth City and stopped at the Barbican (harbour area where the old sailing ships tied up and the Pilgrim Fathers left on the Mayflower for America) for a couple of hours. Some decided to look at the local shops or walk further afield. Others quickly found the nearest pub to retire to and enjoy a drink and something to eat. In no time at all, we were all back on the coach for the final leg of the journey back to Torquay. John Cunningham thought, for a while, that Brian Peacock had missed the coach but was soon sighted in Bob Menzies 4-Wheeler. Evidently, he had suffered from Coach sickness on the outward journey, we later learnt. Sadly, we skirted around Newton Ferrers as the roads down to it were said to be most unsuitable for coaches. We slowly made our way back to Base with several detours and one quick stop. Eventually, we arrived back at the Hotel, albeit a lot later than planned, to change quickly into formal wear for the evening meal and planned night ahead. It was after the evening meal, whilst still in the dining room, that Steve Lister, the founding father of the 40th Reunions, made a presentation speech for those on the Committee who had contributed in anyway to the whole weekend. Each one of those named received an elegant Boy Entrant Tie-pin. After this, everyone made his or her way up the steep stairs to the Lounge - some now even going two steps at a time! It was nice to see that everyone had made an outstanding effort to dress formally, with the ladies, of course, looking lovely. The evening entertainment was a Disco, provided by a young lad who looked just old enough to be in I.T.S. The evening went well with plenty of dancing along with Dave and Joyce Cutbush kindly selling raffle tickets. The first prize being a glass tankard with the Cosford Crest engraved upon it. It was most noticeable that no one from 1 Sqn won any of the five raffle prizes and this will need to be rectified at 40/44. During the evening, we had a late arrival, Chris Lewis (has changed his name from Tabb) and his wife Andrea. Chris, who lives in nearby Paignton, only found out about the Reunion several days before - by coincidence, Chris was taking final retirement on Monday. The 40/42 Celebration Cake was kindly cut by our Senior Member present, Ernie Trimble, along with his lovely wife Hilary. We had earlier passed their residential B&B at Princetown and someone commented that they were sure that a notice displayed in the window said special discounts to 40th Boy Entrants! The Disco finished at 2300 hrs to enable us to talk about our two days together and all the other days we had shared long ago. It was not too long before people began to leave in groups as many had a long journey back home, provided they could exit from the Hotel car park. It was strongly rumoured that a billet party was taking place in a nearby room but you had to be the right Squadron to gain admission and have your Permanent Pass stamped. The following morning (was it Sunday, already?), as our military training dictated, we were well organised before breakfast and cars were being packed with kit ready for the off soon after 0830 breakfast. At breakfast, a Postscript form was given to each table to give everyone the opportunity on commenting on the whole weekend and make suggestions about the venue for 40/44. The consensus, so far, is the Lake District (without the 40th to 49th Entries). Although, having said this, there are still many that have yet to register their wishes. One solitary comment suggested the weekend should be a bit more formal. Perhaps we can come up with a compromise to fit a very small part of the weekend to reflect this on our 40/44? It is felt important, by the Committee, that all voices are heard. Overall, the weekend was judged to be a complete success and some couples have even asked for this to be done again next year. One idea, now proposed, is to have an informal weekend away next May for those who wish to take part in this new spin-off - Naughty/Forty/Weekend. Of course, they would need to make their own arrangements to meet at the chosen venue, to be decided only if the support is really forthcoming. We all agreed to continue making the effort in contacting others from the 40th who we know are out there and would dearly love to attend 40/44. The success of the whole weekend was only made possible by all who attended. Sadly, although we did try, we were unable to retrieve any monies from the Hotel for last minute cancellations as the whole thing was designed as a package based on a definite 80 attending. In the end, we were left with 63 staying at the Hotel. Even so, it was generally felt that all Reunions should be designed as a package to minimize costs - especially to those who are retired or are very close to that point. Thanks,
once again.
-------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY of 40/40 REUNION W/E 1st/2nd Dec 2001 by Dave Stinson
FRIDAY
EVENING: It was fully expected that only a few of the 40th would arrive for this social event as many had far to travel, and in anycase would not arrive until Saturday. What a surprise it was then to get a final gathering of about 20 of us. The ladies decided, quite wisely, to seat themselves in a group and leave the men at the bar to discuss ye olde times. The beer began to flow and so did the war and worn stories. It was amusing to see how people greeted each other; was that Eric, or had he shrunk a bit? Surely Lloyd was bigger than that? Steve was never as quiet as this in Fulton Block? Dave P was thin last time I saw him? Dave still had all his hair, but not his Flt Sgt Boy chevrons! Taff looked odd without his holdall full of toast. Mike, so it was thought, was ginger headed last time he was seen; perhaps the USA does this to you? Surely, John had a stronger Kent accent last time? Bob still had that Perth brogue. Someone else, unidentified, produced a black and white photo showing someone else he was unable to identify! The name badges would prove their worth on Saturday Night. The ladies had a wonderful time and bonded exceptionally well. It was not surprising, as many had a lot in common: children, grandchildren and husbands who often talked about their time in the Boys! One lady thought she was in Lincoln, but did wonder why it took so long to get here. Other ladies said they were glad they had chosen the one they had after inspecting others as they marched into the Pub - out of step! It was really wonderful to see the ladies getting on so well and swapping tales. It had been the right decision to invite the ladies, without them the 40/40 would not have been the great success it was. The night went on nosily for some time, one Plough regular was identified as an ex Boy from a Sprog Entry at Cosford and he thought the best virtue was to sit at the corner of the bar and just listen to this superior senior entry. He did say, however, that within 30 seconds of the first arrivals he had identified us as being X-Brats. He was detailed by one of us to collect our glasses at the end of the night! It was not until midnight that some decided to disappear back to their billets, Mike S had brought his own billet and was camped out on the Charlton Arms car park. Someone else said he had not heard lights out yet so would continue drinking until he did! The final stragglers left around 0100 hrs, some seeking food but mostly their bed. One conclusion reached was that if you insisted now that your children be made to leave home at 15 and join the RAF the Social Services would take them into care and you into court. The overriding conclusion was that times have changed, and along with this so had our appearance. Gravity, it was decided, had a lot to answer for; nothing to do with ageing; overeating; lack of exercise or good living. The ladies, of course, all looked wonderful. SATURDAY
AM: Those
who went to Ironbridge agreed it was well worth the visit.
After all, this was the first Ironbridge anywhere in the world.
Some even said they would return for a more detailed visit
of the whole area. A few hardy souls decided it was time to
re-visit HMS Plough from the previous night, perhaps hoping
to find the Sprog for shoe cleaning and suit pressing. By
late Saturday afternoon a few wise ones decided upon getting
some ZZZZs in before the Formal event.
SATURDAY PM: The room had already been set out with the disco ready to go. Next to the dance floor was a small display of Cosford drums (used in the past by the Boys bands) with 2 flags draped across them, both displaying the 2 S of TT emblem and the Cosford Oak tree. On this display were 5 berets with coloured discs, as worn by the Boys. On a nearby table memorabilia appeared from many sources and was scrutinised throughout the night. Just inside the door, on the table, was a celebration cake with the 40th Shield done in icing. The RAF Cosford Station Commander, Grp Capt Les Burrell, along with Mrs Sue Burrell, arrived at 2015 and were met at the front entrance of the Hotel. On arrival, they were introduced by Steve Lister (Originator of 40/40) to the assembled 40/40 party. After looking around the memorabilia they took up their seating places. By this time everyone else had made a decision on his or her seating arrangements. John Emerson duly said Grace and the set menu was served. The meal was superb and the company never quiet. From nearby tables familiar names could be heard; Chiefy Hinds, Sgt Jolliffe and the Drill Instructor with the big nose! After the meal coffee and mints were served and it was at this point Steve Lister made a short speech and this was followed by the Station Commander's speech. His speech included the history of Boy Entrants and the charges that some Boys found themselves on. An example of this was marching with hands in pockets whilst wearing a ground sheet. The CO also stressed the good quality of the present day airmen and airwoman who are all volunteers. The CO covered certain aspects of the 40th Entries time at Cosford (First Ten Tors Expedition) and he felt sure our training stood us all in good stead for our chosen careers. His speech was well received and certainly well researched. A presentation of the official 40/40 tie was made to him and a display of flowers given to Mrs Burrell. The Disco commenced with the No 1 hit at the time of our enlistment in May 1960 - Cathy's Clown/Everly Brothers. Other 60s music followed, although only one couple appeared to want to dance whilst the rest were happy to talk. It was expected that the Station Commander would retire early on but Mrs Sue Burrell had other ideas. After cutting the celebration 40/40 cake she went onto to serve it at tables. All agreed things had changed since the 60s. However, it was strongly suspected that we had an exceptional couple as our Guests of Honour. A sale of Raffle tickets took place, prior to the departure of the Guests of Honour at just after 2300 hrs. The music played on and no one danced but instead talked about old long forgotten tales and former lost Boys. It was already thought a future reunion would need to be organised - but not tonight! People started to leave just after |
