Jan 3
First night back and while the staff held a meeting the cadets had the pleasure of watching Top Gun. Many it has to be said for the first time, and some had never even heard of the film. Perhaps now they will understand some of the songs and sayings on the Squadron (and even the music on some of the web pages). By the way some great Top Gun themed costumes.
Jan 28
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'Griffs' last salute. CWO Adam Griffin took his last final parade before resigning his Cadet Warrant and becoming a Civilian Instructor. |
Jan 8
Promotion time, congratulations to our three new corporals, Rob Edwards, Michaella Thorpe and Mat Glover. You have had the training, can 'talk the talk', now lets see you 'walk the walk'. To those that didn't get promotion this time round, keep on trying.
Feb 4
The Squadron paraded to St Dionysius for the annual ATC Sunday Parade. Led by the band the Squadron marched from the HQ to the church on a bright but cold morning. During the service a dozen or so cadets were enrolled. Sgt Goddard and FS Asquith read the lessons.
Feb 14
We held our Valentines Day Party. Dressed appropriately for the date we did a Blind Date type selection process to find our partner for the night. Some of the pairs were odd and others were just plain weird!
Then we played different games. ´Love Chairs`, like musical chairs except you sat on you partner's lap, and pull a romantic poses. Other games included ´Love What's The Time Mr Wolf?`, ´Love Statues`, and one where you had to dance around your partner while they stood still. The final round was a dance off, where couples had to compete against each other and the least romantic were eliminated.
At the end of the night, awards were given out. My partner and I won the Inseparable Couple Award because I wouldn't let go of him! Overall it was an amazing night that was simply fantastic, and you never know- someone may have found their perfect partner! Cdt Ellie Hughes
Feb 27
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Mar 2
Flt Lt Gordon Porritt RAFVR(T) Rtd (1925 - 2007)
The funeral was held of Flt Lt Gordon Porritt RAFVR(T) Rtd. A member of the squadron staff in the 1950's he was CO from 1967 to 1970 when he went onto the Civilian Committee. He was a lifelong friend to the squadron and he will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with his family.
Mar 4
Flt Lt Jon Minney (15 Sep 1983 - 3 Mar 2007)
I am sorry I have to report the sad and untimely death of Jon Minney who was killed on Saturday 3 March in a car accident.
Jon was travelling to meet Phil Hopkins and Mat Gorman for a meal when he crashed and his car was hit by an oncoming vehicle.
Jon joined the cadets in Aug 1997 aged 14 and was a prominent member until he left to join the RAF as a fighter control officer some 5 years ago.
Jon became a Flight Sergeant and drum major of the band. This was a good example of his commitment to the squadron because his musical ability was not very good, he found playing the cymbals stretched his skills!
He was a very popular cadet and I will always recall his (alleged) escapade at the allotments in Kibworth.
He was also very conscious of his image and only Jon would think to phone his hairdresser from the top of Rushop Edge on our Christmas Walk to book an appointment.
I remember Jon as a vibrant and fun loving young man. He didn`t seem to take things too seriously and I think this followed through to his RAF career where we heard several tales of his ´caps on` interviews with senior officers. Although he must have been good at his job to get promoted as he did.
He will be sadly missed and once again the world is a poorer place from the loss of another young life.
Our thoughts go to his family and close friends in the RAF and cadets.
Mar 15
Many ex cadets and present cadets and staff attended the funeral of Flt Lt Jon Minney. The church at Guilsborough was packed with friends, relatives and service colleagues for a very moving service. Jon will not be forgotten by all those who were privileged to have known him.
Mar 16
We left for Belgium at 0100 and had the usual breakfast stop before boarding the train for the dash under the tunnel.
The band highlights of Belgium 2007 were, the Sunset Ceremony outside Talbot House, here the trumpeters 'nailed' the tunes and it was an impressive performance all round.
The Carnival took place in cold and windy conditions but seemed to go down well with most cadets. Perhaps not as much light heartedness this year and Carnival de Paris was probably flogged to death, as good a tune as it is.
The battlefield visits were spoilt somewhat by the weather (snow, sleet, rain, strong winds and cold), particularly Tynecot, and
The macabre sight of paramedics giving CPR to two motorcyclists on the road side on the way back from
The free time in
Mixed views about the disco, seemed to be much less dancing this year and the karaoke was a bit of a let down, well one performance in particular, it wasn't just the Loving Feeling that was lost!
Hopefully everyone enjoyed the trip; we have booked again for next year. More photos can be found in the Gallery.
Mar 20
A party of 15 boarded the mini bus for the drive down to London to see the Houses of Parliament and meet the local MP Mr Garnier.
I think we were all very surprised at the size of the House of Lords and Commons and the guide gave a very good explanation of the various procedures and rituals that take place. The highlight was the walk up the 300+ steps to the top of the Clock Tower and Big Ben. The views from the 96 metre tall tower were as impressive as the wind was strong. Neither was as impressive as standing next to Big Ben as it rang out midday. The reverberations of the sound made us all quiver.
Mr Garnier was very interested in what we had done and in particular our recent trip to Belgium and said he would be very pleased to see us again on another visit.
April 9
Monday saw the first of our Bank Holiday sports and barbeques.
Led by A Sgt Smith the 'school sports day' was different and enjoyed by all. It has been some time since the cadets have taken part in egg and spoon and wheel barrow races!
The barbeque was prepared by the Boss and once again she proved her cookery skills.
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April 10
A party of 9 cadets went to RAF Wyton for air experience flying. All flew despite prior calls by the UAS, thanks to the AEF pilots for their efforts.
April 13 - 15
30 cadets and 4 members of staff spent the weekend at Johns Lee Wood for the T Flight and Cadet Development Camp. A great time was had by all helped considerably by the fantastic weather.
New for this camp were, climbing, abseiling, caving, leadership exercises, orienteering, as well as the usual map reading and camping skills programme. Entertainment was provided on Saturday by a low key version of the Squadron disco. Despite a slow start this finished in a rousing finale.
Thanks to the Boss for cooking for us over the weekend, it is always much appreciated.
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Coming down |
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Climbing up |
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Sports during free time |
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The happy group before going home - happy perhaps because they were going home |
April 25
FS Lauren Bickley and Sgt Sam Tomlinson passed their Staff Examination after their interview with Sqn Ldr Flynn. The coveted yellow lanyard was presented to them by Wg Cdr Mills, C&E Region Training Officer who was visiting the squadron to discuss BTEC Awards.
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| Wg Cdr Mills and FS Bickley |
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| Wg Cdr Mills and Sgt Tomlinson |
May 10
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A trip to the Tigers ground to help the RAFA with the new Wings Appeal campaign 'Brew for the Few'. This was a photo shoot with members of the RAFA, including some veterans from WW2, and the ex Tigers and England rugby player Rory Underwood. Cdt Chris Edgar, Cpl Rob Edwards and Sgt Aimee Webb drank tea with the veterans and Rory Underwood and hope that the pictures taken will appear in the various newspapers and journals. Before leaving they all took the opportunity to get Rory's autograph. |
May 13
Wing Sports day at a very wet and cold athletics stadium. We had 22 cadets attend to represent the squadron and in the very difficult conditions they all performed to the best of their abilities and showed remarkable fortitude and humour throughout the day.
There were many excellent individual performances but two stand out for me Cdt Jess Keeble who attended despite knowing she was going to have to leave the squadron to pursue her ambitions in horse riding and took part in the gruelling 1500m race. Also Cdt D Nye who ran the 800m in the heavy rain knowing that she couldn't win and it would not make any difference to the result. Their team went on to finish 2nd in the Class D Girls.
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May 21
We said au revoir to our Padre, Rev Paul Messam who has moved to Nuneaton. One of the most popular Padres we have ever had and he will be missed by us all. Good luck to him and his family and we hope he will pop in to see us if he is in the area.
June 2-3
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| 14 cadets completed their Bronze DofE Practice. In very warm conditions they improved their navigation and team work skills and learnt through experience that 'light weight is good weight'. Will we see the make up bag on the actual expedition? |
June 15
A very surprised Flt Lt Standish opened the post to find he had been awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list.
Headquarters Air Cadet's web site stated 'In recognition for his 27 years service with the Corps working at Squadron, Wing and Region - showing unwaiving dedication and support to all levels of the Organisation'.
He said "Obviously I am very proud to have my contribution recognised in this way particularly in the light of the extensive work done by so many others in the Corps"
It made a fitting birthday surprise for him
June 16
9 cadets met at the start point for their D of E Bronze Expedition. After a check of essential equipment they set off on their epic adventure. It wasn't long before the rain started and this set the trend for day one. Heavy showers through the day until about 9pm when it just threw it down along with thunder and lightning. Fortunately tents remained fairly dry.
Up at the crack of dawn they were ready to leave on time for day two. Unfortunately one of the team was suffering from migraine and had to withdraw but the rest completed the day in sunshine.
We wait to see if they satisfied the assessor.
June 24
FS Lauren Bickley was interviewed by Wing Commander Dickinson for a post of Cadet Warrant Officer which she passed. She was presented with her rank badges at the Wing Field Day final parade by the Station Commander of RAF Wittering
June 24
The band swept the board in the three major music competitions at the Wing Field Day. This is the second time they have had a clean sweep.
In squally driving rain the band set the standard for others to follow and despite strong competion in all sections from the other bands they were well deserved winners. The new tune Carnival de Paris added that bit extra to the routine and we look forward to Region Field Day knowing that the competition there will be very strong and we will have to be on top form to get to Corps Finals again.
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Michael Standish Fanfare Trophy |
Percussion Section Certificate |
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Full Band Trophy |
The Squadron was also runners up in the 2006 Novice Shield shooting competiton and we wait to see how the other teams got on.
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A happy team enjoy that winning feeling |
July 1
The band played at Husband Bosworth Festival celebrating 80 years of Husband Bosworth branch of the Royal British Legion.
The band led the standards onto the parade ground in front of Bosworth Hall and played Last Post and Reveille as part of the a drumhead ceremony.
Previously the band twice played for the public although the crowds were quite small due to the very wet weather overnight and the threatened storms during the day.
July 14
Cpl Matt Glover achieved his silver gliding wings.
July 14/15
RIAT - the last one
The band delighted the crowds and several air crew with their performance over the two days of RIAT. They opened the arena display with an ensign hoisting and then performed for the watching crowds.
As well as performing in the arena several times during the weekend they marched through the crowd lines providing many photo opportunities for the crowd. The band was probably the most photographed thing after the aircraft.
During the weekend they went on a 'cook's world tour'. This involved them playing alongside aircraft from countries around the world. These included a C5 Galaxy from
While the crews of all the aircraft were very good it has to be said the Italians treated the cadets as friends. They invited the cadets to perform on both days and insisted on a group photo, something I am sure the cadets will remember a long time.
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| Whilst at the Merlin the band took the opportunity to meet up with ex CWO Chris Parker now a Sgt loadmaster. Chris suggested he would still be able to out drum any one but didn't take up the challenge from FS Tomlinson to a 'shoot out'. |
Perhaps the highlight of the weekend was marching on to the rear ramp of the C5 and playing through the cavernous interior to finish with a display on the front loading ramp, surely a unique experience.
All in all a great weekend and a fitting end to their 8th and possibly final RIAT band event.
July 14 to 21
The high light of the year - Summer Camp, this year at RAF Marham.
Activities included go karts, a spectacular and wet visit to the Fire Section, a visit to a Tornado Squadron, bowling, disco, shooting, sports, confidence course, night exercise, helping at a rather wet Families Day as well as visits to sections to see the daily life of an active RAF station.
Best flight was that led by CWO Bickley and the Most Improved 1st Timer was Cdt Rory Kelly.
We won’t mention the drill competition eh CWO, or ask which male cadet let the side down when he was overtaken by a female driver.
More pictures in Picture Galleries - Other Photos
Sept 3
A great Region Field Day.
The band won the full band contest with a very good display and music content and the Percussion section showed, for once, that loud is not good when the drums got to grips with dynamics.
I don’t want it to sound like sour grapes but I really did think the Fanfare had done enough to give us a clean sweep but they were pipped to 1st place by Trent Wing. Next year will be even better.
Now off to Corps and hopefully the omens are good, last time we went in 2003 we won.
Oh happy days.
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Full Band Trophy |
Percussion Section Trophy |
Sept 3
CO awarded a Defence Council Letter of Appreciation.
Flt Lt Valerie Smith was awarded with a DCLA, which I am told is the highest commendation letter that can be awarded.
The letter states ‘The Commandant of the Air Training Corps has paid special tribute to the dynamic and energetic leadership qualities you have shown during your service and outstanding work done with 1084 Market Harborough Squadron band at the Royal International air Tattoo Through your dedication many cadets have participated in training and annual camps over 15 years of loyal and devoted service’
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The CO receives her DCLA from Grp Capt Ford |
Sep 10
Parachute Jump as told by Cpl Robert Edwards
I arrived at an Army Barracks near Bicestor, Oxfordshire on the Sunday afternoon for my Air Training Corps sponsored parachute course.
The course was to include a full day ground training and 1 solo static line descent from approx. 3,500 feet.
Everyone was up very early on the Monday morning to prepare for what was going to be a very hard and long day. We arrived at SkyDive Weston at around 0830 and immediately started the training.
We began with a very detailed talk-thru of the parachute and the vital correct exit of the aircraft. For this we sat in the door of the aircraft and practised again and again the 'arch' position and the perfect timings.
We were then told what to do when the canopy opens, reserve drills if it didn’t open and landing, including wrong landings such as in a tree.
We then went through a ‘walk through’ of what to do. It certainly felt weird and must have looked funny seeing all of us apparently wandering aimlessly round in circles muttering the drills to ourselves and suspended in harnesses going through every eventuality, and then rolling around on mats to simulate landings. Although the course allowed for 3 days to complete the actual jumps because of the weather forecast the staff decided to move all the jumps forward to that day. Nerves were running high as we all got kitted up in our jump suits, which looked like something from a Flash Gordon movie, and were issued parachutes and radios.
I sat outside and watched the first group. The first cadet landed in the wrong field which didn’t do much for my nerves but luckily she was fine. Then it was my turn to board the aircraft. Everyone kept themselves to themselves on the take-off concentrating on what was to come, jumping out of a fully serviceable aeroplane. It reminded me of something from a war film.
It was my turn, too late to back out now, I edged towards the door trying to look confident, I looked up at the jump-master who simply said the words - 'Look up........GO!' No time to think, I pushed myself out of the aircraft and arched. Wow, the rush was amazing and it took the breath from me. Watching the plane shoot away from you and then looking down and just seeing for miles and miles was fantastic.
With a sudden jerk I was brought back to reality as the parachute fully opened. I went through the drill and after that it was time to admire the breathtaking view.
Soon I realised the ground was rushing up fast, too fast it seemed but I was heading for the right landing area, I fell forward on landing but managed to stop the wind from dragging me along too much.
I stood up, and my legs were shaking like mad as I walked back to the buildings with a fantastic sense of elation and achievement. Everyone was in very high spirits and feeling so fantastic at what we had just done, even one cadet who injured his foot on landing.
We had a party that evening to celebrate our achievement and on the Tuesday morning we went back to SkyDive Weston to watch videos of us and pick up pictures of our jumps.
I have done many great things in the ATC but this is by far the best experience I have ever had.
The leap of Faith
Wing Swimming
13 cadets swam their lungs out at Wing Swimming. Star of the Squadron team was Cpl Rob Edwards who came 2nd in the Senior Boys butterfly and won the Senior Boys freestyle. This effort helped the Senior Boys team to overall 4th place.
Cpl Edwards now goes to represent the Wing at Region.
Sep 14
The squadron was invited to play for the Sergeant's and WO's Mess at their annual Battle of Britain Ball. The trumpet section opened the display by sounding the fanfare ‘Manston’ as an invitation to the guests to make their way to the parade square. The band then entertained the guests with a 10 minute display during which a Spitfire made several low passes. After an excellent continuity rifle drill display by 126 (Derby) Squadron the band played again culminating in a Sunset Ceremony where the played the Evening Hymn, Sunset, National Anthem and RAF March Past.
The CMC later said the event had proved very popular with the guests.
Sep 15
Day Trippers
Since the band had done so well at Region a day trip to Butlins was their treat. Other cadets were invited but they had to pay ‘full fare’.
The day was another success with 20 cadets taking part and activities including swimming, 10 pin bowls (best bowler Peter Taylor), Lazerquest (convincing win by Red Flight), go karts and all the other attractions that Butlins offers.
The question still remains which cadet bumped his head while trying to get through the ‘secret door’ into the sweet shop? Why were two members of staff seen using it even though it was clearly marked ‘no adults’
Sep 16
The salute after the service was taken by Cllr Peter Callis, Chairman of the District Council
Sep 17
21 potential new recruits, some with parents visited the squadron to find out more about the cadets as a result of visits to the local schools by cadets. Most expressed an interest in giving the cadets a try and we look forward to seeing how many ‘stay the course’
Sep 22-23
6 cadets attended a radio course at RAF Wittering and were successful in passing the exam to enable them to operate the squadron radios without supervision. These are the first radio exam successes for many years and reflect further diversification of the squadron training programme.
Oct 6/7
CI Adam Griffin took part in a BELA Assessment weekend. At the end of a gruelling weekend he was told he had passed the course. He now needs to complete 30 hours practical work and he will join the other two members of staff who are qualified to take cadets on hill walking and camping activities.
Oct 12/14
Cadets gathered at Johns Lee Wood for another T Flight Camp. Aimed mainly at getting the new cadets more involved the weekend was another success. Activities included map reading, archery, climbing, abseiling, leadership exercises and a walk to put into practice the navigation skills learned during the weekend.
There was plenty of time for socialising and the party games on the Saturday night were enjoyed by all.
Oct 19
Some 25 cadets gathered in the dusk on a country lane near Market Harborough for an evening of night navigation and evasion exercise. The missions included locating a rescuing an injured pilot and making contact with local ‘resistance’ whilst keeping hidden from the enemy.
The soup provided at the end of the exercise was particularly welcome on what turned out to be a cold but dry exercise.
Nov 3
14 cadets helped at the Festival of Remembrance held at the De-Montfort Hall. This annual event is
Nov 9
After months of planning and frustration the Remembrance Ball was held. 150 people crowded into the local rugby club for an evening of dancing and fund raising for Macmillan Cancer and Leicester Infirmary Oncology Unit. An auction was held which raised over £1000 and the final total raised was £2450. A donation was made to the RBL Poppy Appeal as a token of respect for the support given to the Squadron by the local branch, the remainder of the money will be divided between the two cancer charities.
Nov 10
13 Cadets made their way to Leicester City Football Club, not to turn out for the football team but the Royal British Legion ‘team’ supporting the LCFC Poppy Match.
13 Cadets made their way to Leicester City Football Club, not to turn out for the football team but the Royal British Legion ‘team’ supporting the LCFC Poppy Match.
The cadets formed guards of honour, helped in collections and escorted the veterans round the ground at half time. They also got chance to watch the match, not a good day for the home fans as the team lost 1-0 to
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Nov 11
Completing a busy weekend in the morning the cadets paraded in Market Harborough led by the squadron band. Wreaths were laid by Flt Lt Cheetham and Cdt Taylor.
While the squadron was parading in Market Harborough Cdt Jack Hughes was in a nearby village playing Last Post for their service.
Immediately after the morning events the band travelled to Oakham to lead their parade.
Nov 18
Full of expectations the band set off for the Corps Band Championships which they last won in 2003. This year was not to see a repeat of their victory and despite their best efforts the full band could only finish 5th. The precussion section came 4th in their event and Drum Major, Cdt Chris Edgar, was 3rd in the Drum Major competition.
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Nov 30
The Annual Dining in and Awards night was held on Friday 30th November when the squadron dined out Group Captain Jon Ford. The traditional fish and chip supper was followed by the awards, the Best Cadet for the year was Cdt Kirstin Dagley who was only just in front of Cpl Matt Glover, (no one knows what was said later and if Kirstin's decision to go to South Africa was influenced by that in any way). It was interesting that the 'triplets' were first, second and third in this section.
Other winner included FS Helen Greaves, (Bands Person of the Year) Cdt Reno Demarco (CO’s Award) Cdt Becky Tomlinson (Endeavour Award), Cdt Josiah Ford (Jon Minney Trophy for Best Newcomer), Cdt Connor Monk (Best Bands Person in Belgium and Best Exam Results), Sgt Rob Edwards and Cpl Sophie Weston (Sports Persons of the Year (joint)), Cdt Chloe Finlay (Best Attendance).
Dec 13
Flt Lt John Standish, together with his son David and the 'Boss' went to London for the investiture ceremony, following Flt Lt Standish's award of the MBE earlier this year. He reports a fraught journey down taking over 31/4 hours. The final drive from the motorway to the Palace taking 11/2 hours. Arriving a few minutes late meant they couldn't quite take in the drive through the gates into the palace inner courtyard and were whisked up stairs as soon as they entered. From there the organisation took over. A quick glass of OJ (no champagne provided!) and a briefing of what was to happen John soon found himself called to join the queue. A walk across the back of the ballroom and soon waiting his turn to go forward. The Prince chatted briefly after presenting the award and John joined the visitors until the investiture was over. After the Prince left it was time for a quick take of the entrance, now lined with Life Guards and into the court yard for the photo session. A truly remarkable day.
Dec 14
No time to dwell on yesterday as the squadron set out for Dalehead for its annual Christmas Camp.
An unusually quick journey soon saw them settled in and the fire going. The following morning saw a few hardy souls peering out of the window and then quickly shutting the curtains to blot out the white, icy conditions. Fortified by a hearty breakfast they set off up the 'big hill' and savoured the freezing conditions on Rushop Edge. Unable to use the stone slabs up MamTor because they were covered in black ice we fought the way onwards to Hollins Cross and the descent into Edale. A quick stop at the cafe for a warming drink and it was off onto the Pennine Way and back to the barn for hot soup. The 'Boss' cooked the full Christmas dinner and party games followed. Sunday saw us tackle another climb up Losehill before returning to clean the barn and set off home.
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