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Summer 2002
Stop Press: Visit to Chartwell
Sunday 29 September
There has been a good response to the proposed visit, but there are just a few seats still available to fill the coach. So anyone who has not yet responded please phone Peter Sharpe now.
A reminder that the coach leaves Farnham Station at 9.45 am , returning there again by about 5.45 pm.
FAREWELLS, GREETINGS AND GOOD WISHES
In our last Newsletter, we announced the excellent news that Eric Udell was to be commissioned. With his subsequent posting to Germany, Eric's stay in the Branch and on our Committee must be the shortest on record! Despite this, he showed excellent support for all that the Association is trying to achieve and played his part in our Branch events with great enthusiasm. Good luck, Eric, in your new role.
In our last Newsletter, we announced the excellent news that Eric Udell was to be commissioned. With his subsequent posting to Germany, Eric's stay in the Branch and on our Committee must be the shortest on record! Despite this, he showed excellent support for all that the Association is trying to achieve and played his part in our Branch events with great enthusiasm. Good luck, Eric, in your new role.
With Eric's departure, we are delighted to welcome to the Branch and our Committee Kevin Smith, who is Eric's replacement as RSM 101 Log Bde HQ and Signal Squadron.
A warm welcome also to Christine Doe who joined the Branch on 17th May. Christine left the regular army this year after 10 years service in the WRAC and the Corps, including a tour in Bosnia and, on joining us, was immediately put through the rigours of our Quiz Night! We hope that the experience will encourage her to come to our other events on offer.
We are also very pleased to welcome Geoffrey Neal as an Associate Member of the Aldershot Branch in accordance with Rule 16 of the Association. Geoff was proposed by Nigel Ribchester and the application was approved by the committee.
We have to bid farewell to Alistair McKinnon and Gordon Barnett, both of whom have departed for other parts of the country, though we note that Gordon has joined the Reading branch, so we hope we may still see him at some of our own branch functions.
We are sorry to report that Derek Briggs and Ray Pritchard have not been well recently. We wish them a full and speedy recovery.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Autumn Lunch at the Aldershot Army Golf Club
Sunday 27 October
12.30 for 1 pm
The Army Golf Club continues to be a very popular venue for our Autumn Lunch, so this year we have chosen it again. We shall have as guests of the Branch two key members of the RHQ staff, Lt Col Ian Hamilton and Peter Cuckow, both accompanied by their wives.
There will be a three-course lunch, the main course being a Curry, but special diets will be catered for if requested. The starter will be on the table, to enable us to sit down and enjoy the first course straight away. Cost of the lunch (for the third year running) will be £13, excluding drinks to be ordered individually.
Please complete Annex 'A' and return to reach Peter Sharpe with cheque by 12 October.
A Luncheon at the Army School of Catering
Friday 29 November
12.30 for 1 pm
Last year many of you expressed interest in coming to this luncheon, which had to be postponed due to the aftermath of the tragic events of 11th September. Now, we are delighted to tell you that a fresh date, Friday 29 November, has been booked. This makes it ideal for a Branch get-together before the pre-Christmas shopping rush.
From reports of those who have attended similar functions, the occasion will be very well organised, with meal and service of particularly high standard. The students who prepare and serve are 'on show' before joining the staffs of various Officers' Messes in the UK and overseas.
A 4-course meal with coffee will be served, all for the exceptionally low cost of £4.75 per head. There will also be a cash bar, where wine can be purchased. Up to 40 diners are invited to attend and we shall have the room to ourselves.
We expect a lot of interest in this event, so whether or not you previously applied, please complete Annex 'B' and return to reach Peter Sharpe as soon as possible and not later than 20 October. If we are over-subscribed, applications will be taken in order of receipt. Detailed directions will be given to those applying for tickets.
Remembrance Day Ceremonies
The Branch will once again be represented at Remembrance Day events in the local area, parading our standard and laying wreaths.
Remembrance Sunday: 10 November
We will participate in the service and ceremony at the Royal Garrison Church in Aldershot on Sunday 10th November. This attracts a large congregation from units in the garrison and those attending are advised to be seated in the church by 10.30 am. RMP will direct people to the ample car parks and there is normally a shuttle bus from there up to the church.
Remembrance Day: Monday 11 November
On Monday 11th November, the Normandy Veterans Association will again muster at the Brookwood Cemetery. The ceremony takes place in the Canadian part of the War Cemetery and is the main focus of attention on Remembrance Day for the Canadian High Commissioner and those members of Canadian Forces serving in the UK. The pipe band of the Gordon Boys School will lead the parade. This is a very moving event which all Branch members are encouraged to attend. You should be in position by 10.30 am. Car parking is limited and warm clothing is advised. Anyone requiring directions to the War Cemetery please contact the Chairman.
OTHER ACTIVITIES OF INTEREST
Annual Church Parade and Service at Royal Hospital, Chelsea
Sunday 1 September
10 am for 10.30 am
West London Branch invite us and a number of other branches to join them at an annual parade and church service at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, to be held this year on Sunday 1 September. A curry lunch in the Pensioners' Club is held afterwards at a cost of £5 per head.
Due to the interest in this event, overall numbers invited have to be limited to 60. If you wish to attend, you are advised to send your request with cheque as soon as possible to Mr E Murphy, the Secretary, West London Branch,
Reading Branch Annual Dinner
Saturday 12 October
Reading Branch will hold its Annual Reunion Dinner on Saturday 12th October 2002. For details and application to attend, please see contact details in circulated paper newsletter. 60th Anniversary of the Battle of El Alamein
Service in Westminster Abbey
Wednesday 23 October, 12 pm
This national service of thanksgiving is being organised on behalf of the veterans from the N African campaign and, in particular, those who fought at El Alamein. It will take place in the presence of HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and other members of the Royal Family.
RSA members who are El Alamein or 8th Army veterans and relatives of veterans who lost their lives in the battle may apply through RHQ to attend the service. Bids must be received by Friday 30 August, in order to make the deadline set by the organisers. If the demand for tickets proves excessive, it may be necessary for the organisers to restrict allocation. Tickets and a note on dress for the occasion will be sent a few days before the event.
CORPS EVENTS
Corps Carol Service. Thursday 19 December
The Corps Carol service will be held as usual at the Corps Church, St Stephen with St John, Rochester Row. London on Thursday 19 December, beginning at 6pm.
The service will be followed with the usual gathering for Sherry and Mince pies at the Church Hall.
REPORTS ON SOME RECENT EVENTS
Participation in The Golden Jubilee Parade
Members who watched the Golden Jubilee Parade on television may have spotted four RSA Standards tucked in behind the massed standards of the Royal British Legion. We are proud to report that one of those was our Branch Standard carried by Fred Bridges with his customary aplomb. Fred volunteered for this at short notice in response to a call from RHQ. As usual, he was well supported by his wife, Jean.
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Fred also took part in the Princess Royal Day Parade at Blandford, which, of course, our Colonel in Chief attended this year in person. It was a long and complex parade, showing up the Corps in a very good light and owing much to the colourful backdrop of a dozen or so Association Standards. Many thanks and congratulations on both counts, Fred.
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AGM and Spring Lunch, Sunday 14th April 2002
The Garrison Sergeants Mess was the venue once again for this year’s AGM, attended by 35 members and associate members. After approving last year’s AGM minutes, the only matter arising concerned the new Branch Standard. This project was on hold until RHQ had completed its survey of potential suppliers, following the delivery of very poor quality Standards to some branches.
In his review of the previous 12 months, the Chairman said that the very successful series of events held in the Branch had been overshadowed by the sad death of the president, General Henry Hild and, indeed, by the passing of some other members. He could, however, report that Janet Hild was well and had sent good wishes to all those attending the AGM.
The Chairman also congratulated Mike Wilson for his achievement in establishing the Branch Website and getting it up and running at the end of 2001.
The Treasurer, Peter Sharpe, gave a clear presentation on the accounts, illustrated by the now customary and eagerly awaited pie charts. The accounts for 2001 were passed. During the election of the committee for the coming year, tribute was paid in particular to the work of WO1 (RSM) Eric Udell who had successfully cemented relations between the Branch and the serving Corps in Aldershot. His replacement is WO1 (RSM) Kevin Smith. Other new members on the committee are John Martin (Membership) and WO2 Ray Pritchard (Mess Liaison).
Before we all sat down to a traditional roast beef lunch, special reports were given by Mike Wilson on the RSA AGM held in London on the previous day and by Neville Lyons and Eric Udell on their participation in the Seminar on the future of the RSA.
Eighth Annual Quiz Night, 16th May 2002
The branch Quiz Night has gained in popularity over the years. This time the Garrison Sergeants’ Mess was once again packed to capacity, with nearly 90 contestants divided into 22 teams of 4. Identified by often mysterious or bizarre names, these teams came from:
Aldershot and Reading Branches of the RSA
228 Signal Squadron (12 Mechanised Brigade)
251 Signal Squadron
261 Signal Squadron (101 Logistic Brigade)
WRAC Association
Garrison Sergeants Mess
This year, the intensive training regime adopted by Reading Branch paid off and their team The Footmen won the competition followed by Adam 2 and The After Thoughts both of Aldershot Branch. The Bar Flies representing the Garrison Mess took the prize for best serving team.
At the end of a highly enjoyable event, Neville Lyons and his small team were thanked for their polished organisation of a very successful Quiz Night.
Sovereigns Parade, Final Rehearsal, 7 August 2002
We were delighted again to arrange for almost 100 members of the Royal Signals Association to attend this annual event at RMA, Sandhurst. Apart from our own party, they were drawn from Southampton, Reading and West London Branches. It was a fine, hot morning ideal for spectators but not perhaps for those on parade. Nevertheless they put on a very good show. On the actual parade, two days later, the Sovereign was represented by the Corps’ most distinguished officer, General Sir Sam Cowan, who is about to retire from his post as Chief of Defence Logistics and from the Army. In recognition of his outstanding championing of the Gurhka cause, pipers from the Royal Gurkha Rifles participated in the parade.
Band Concert at Kneller Hall, Wednesday 8 August
What was to have been a celebration in the highest traditions of the open air Summer Concerts at the Royal Military School of Music turned into an experience of the lowest traditions of a British summer! More than 30 members and their friends joined the large gathering in the grounds of Kneller Hall, early enough to enjoy a pre-concert picnic.
No sooner had chairs been unfolded and picnic baskets opened than the clouds also opened and hasty retreats were made to cars, where we adopted “Picnic Plan”
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Fortunately, the rain ceased in time for the first part of a splendid concert and we were able sit back and enjoy music from the amalgamated bands of the Royal Artillery, the Royal Irish Regiment and the Brigade of Gurkhas. Came the last item before the interval, a Gaelic Spectacular, appropriately titled “Paddy’s Leather Breeches”, when a storm of monsoon proportions engulfed the audience.
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This, very sadly, brought the proceedings to an abrupt and unceremonious close. The grand finale, which should have been the 1812 Overture accompanied by fireworks was replaced by the sight of an entire audience squelching disconsolately through dark puddles to find their cars, accompanied only by thunder and sheet lightning. Certainly a night to remember!
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IN MEMORIAM
Colonel DJ Braine ERD
We are sad to record the death on 1st April 2002 of Colonel Jack Braine who served in the Corps throughout the Second World War and until his retirement in 1958.
Commissioned into Royal Signals in 1939, he soon afterwards found himself commanding a reconnaissance unit in France. Indeed, he was cut off when France capitulated in June 1940. He then used the utmost initiative to get his men home by taking them to Marseilles, commandeering a steamer and travelling back by way of Gibraltar. Subsequently he served in the Middle East and Persia.
On leaving the forces, he qualified as an architect and worked for the Department of the Environment in Aldershot. He settled in Castle Street in Farnham and became active in local affairs mainly through the local Residents Association.
Jack was a doughty fighter all his life, including his latter years in which he suffered ill health without complaint. We extend our sincere sympathies to his widow, Ann.
Tail Piece
If you have the inner strength to......
Start the day without coffee or pep pills
Be cheerful and ignore aches and pains
Resist complaining about your troubles
Understand when loved ones are too busy to give you time
Overlook the times when loved ones take things out on you
Take criticism and blame without resentment
Face the world without lies and deceit
Conquer tension without medication
And relax without alcohol .......
.......then you are most likely to be the family dog!
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Spring 2002
Top
Congratulations
It's very pleasing to start this edition of Mercury on a congratulatory note. First to Joe Fairbairn, former Garrison Sergeant Major and stalwart Branch committee member, who came over last month from Cyprus for his investiture as MBE.
Secondly, to Eric Udell, RSM of 101 Log Bde HQ and Signal Squadron and Joe's replacement on the Branch committee, who has received the welcome news that he is to be commissioned.
Our warmest congratulations to you both.
Branch Survey
We are grateful to all who responded to our recent Branch Survey. Your replies will be useful for the future of our Branch and for our representatives attending the Seminar in early April, to be hosted by the Chairman of the Royal Signals Association. We expect to produce a report in our next Newsletter.
Events not to be missed!
8TH ANNUAL QUIZ NIGHT IN THE GARRISON SERGEANTS' MESS
Thursday 16 May
Start at 8pm. Please arrive between 7.30 and 7.45 pm Yes, we are delighted to announce our Annual Quiz Night for the eighth successive year, an event that has become one of the most popular in our calendar. Last year, the Garrison Sergeants' Mess ante-room was bursting at the seams and this again promises to be a really fun evening.
So, come along, pit your wits and enjoy this very social event, to be held again, by kind permission of the Mess Committee, in the Garrison Sergeants' Mess.
Separate invitations are being sent to visiting teams, including garrison units and neighbouring branches. Prizes will be awarded to the first three teams. Each team will comprise four people and it would be very helpful to the smooth running of the event if as many as possible would form their own teams in advance.
There will be five rounds of questions; and a buffet supper will be served about the halfway mark. An inclusive charge of £7 per head, payable on the night, will cover the cost of buffet, quiz and raffle prizes and a free issue of raffle tickets. Additional raffle tickets will be on sale. By the way, the price of beer and other liquor in the Sergeants' Mess makes it still the best value around!
Please complete and return Annex 'B' of your newsletter to Peter Sharpe by 6 May, or send him an email peter@sharpe280.freeserve.co.uk
DRESS REHEARSAL FOR TROOPING THE COLOUR
Saturday 8 June
All members were sent invitations early February (as an enclosure with the Branch Survey questionnaire) to apply to attend this Dress Rehearsal Those who have replied will be notified of details when received from HQ Household Division. It is regretted that no further applications can be accepted.
JUBILEE CHARITY CONCERT AT LOSELEY PARK
Sunday 23 June at 7pm
This event is billed as a major Jubilee celebration in Surrey. It is a joint venture organised by the Army Benevolent Fund, The Royal British Legion and SSAFA Forces Help.
The concert starts at 7pm and finale (including fireworks) about 10 pm.
The HAC Band and Guildford Symphony Orchestra will be in attendance, with narration by Penelope Keith.
You should bring own picnic facilities, including camp-chairs, rugs, umbrellas, etc.
A 53 seater coach party, organised by the RBL Fleet Branch, will leave from Church Road Car Park, Fleet at 5.30 pm. Cost will be £15 per person, including coach and concert. Contact in the first instance Ian Ronald by email ian.ronald1@virgin.net
If you wish to go individually, you may obtain tickets in advance at £12.50, by contacting in the first instance Hon Sec ABF, Paul Thomas For those not wishing to book in advance, tickets will be available at Loseley Park on the night at £15.
BARBECUE IN GARRRISON SERGEANTS' MESS
Sunday 21 July
We plan to hold a barbecue evening in the Garrison Sergeant's Mess on Sunday 21st July if there is sufficient support. Until numbers attending are known the exact charge cannot be defined, but will be the usual reasonable Mess charge.
At this stage, will those who may be interested in attending please complete Annex 'C' of your newsletter and return to Peter Sharpe by 25 June or send an emailpeter@sharpe280.freeserve.co.uk Firm details will then be sent to them.
SOVEREIGN'S PARADE DRESS REHEARSAL AT RMA, SANDHURST
Wednesday 7 August
Seated by 10.45 am
We and our neighbouring branches are again invited to watch this highly impressive and well-attended event, the Commandant's Rehearsal for the Sovereign's Parade at the Royal Military Academy.
Please aim to arrive at the Staff College Gate by 10.30 am, as seats must be occupied by 10.45 am. Facilities will be made available at the Cricket Pavilion for lunch, so please bring picnic and light refreshments with you. As the RMA authorities require a contribution for use of their facilities, £1 per head will be payable with your replies.
Dress: Lounge suit.
Aldershot Branch members please complete and return Annex 'D' to Peter Sharpe by 23 July, with cheques made out to 'Royal Signals Association, Aldershot Branch' or send him an emailpeter@sharpe280.freeserve.co.uk
BAND CONCERT AT KNELLER HALL, TWICKENHAM
Wednesday 7 August
Grounds open: 6pm Seating by 7.50 pm Concert 8 to 9.30 pm
For the last two years a group from the Branch has enjoyed this ever-popular military band concert evening at Kneller Hall. As for last year, we have gone for the final concert of the season, which is considered to be the highlight occasion. We have again succeeded in getting a limited number of tickets for Branch members and their guests and, by booking early, we have obtained seats much nearer the front.
This again happens to be the same day as the RMA event earlier in the day, so why not make it a bumper day out, with an evening picnic following your lunch-time one!
Kneller Hall is a short drive up the M3 towards London and easy to find, once in the vicinity of Twickenham Rugby Stadium.
Cars may be parked in the grounds and, as refreshments are not available, we suggest you bring a picnic (including liquid refreshment), which may be consumed before the performance, but not in the auditorium. Folding chairs for the picnic would be a useful accessory to bring along.
The cost per head is £6 and, as there may be a heavy demand for tickets, you are advised to get your bids in without delay. If we are over-subscribed, allocation will be strictly on a first come first served basis. Please send your requests using, Annex 'E' of your newsletter, to Peter Sharpe as soon as possible, with cheques made out to 'Royal Signals Association, Aldershot Branch' or send him an email peter@sharpe280.freeserve.co.uk
Tickets and written directions will be sent to you. Any unsuccessful applicants will be notified and their cheques returned.
VISIT TO CHARTWELL
Sunday 29 September
The home of Sir Winston Churchill from 1924 to the end of his life, Chartwell is a delightful family home, with stunning views over the Weald, from which Sir Winston drew inspiration. The rooms and gardens, including the water garden, remain much as he left them, with pictures, maps and personal mementoes strongly evoking the career and wide-ranging interests of the great statesman. Many of Sir Winston's pictures can be seen in the Water Garden.
We are arranging a group visit to Chartwell on Sunday 29th September, A 53 seater coach is being booked to pick up the party at Farnham Station at 9.45 am. We aim to return to Farnham by approximately 5.30 pm. We expect to have at least 36 passengers, including members, their partners and their guests and the cost per head for the coach will be £11, with adjustments up or down depending on numbers who actually attend.
The admission fee to Chartwell £6 per head (National Trust members free on production of membership card). There is a licensed self-service restaurant and picnics are permitted in the area of the car park.
To enable us to make detailed arrangements, please complete and return Annex 'F' of your newsletter with cheques for £17 per head (NT members £11), covering coach and admission to Peter Sharpe by 31 July or contact him by email peter@sharpe280.freeserve.co.uk Cheques may be post-dated to 31 July.
AND FOR YOUR DIARIES, details in our next Newsletter:
Sunday 27 October Autumn Lunch at Aldershot Army Golf Club
Date TBC Nov or Dec Luncheon at the Army School of Catering
Spotlight on Corps Events
The Officers' Retired List (Blue List) was published in November last year and includes details for the Corps Dinner and Annual Officers' Luncheon.
Tuesday 14 May Corps Dinner at the Savoy Hotel, London
Sat/Sun 29/30 June Royal Signals Association Annual Reunion, Blandford
Sunday 30 June Annual Officers' Luncheon, Blandford
Members should note that the Officers' Luncheon is not part of the Association Annual Reunion, so you need to book separately.
The outline programme for the Association Reunion is:
Sat 29 June
1030 hrs Princess Royal Parade on Hawke Square It is expected that the Colonel-in Chief will be talking the salute
1200 hrs All Ranks Lunch in Regimental Restaurant
1500 hrs Arena Programme including:
Corps Band
White Helmets Motor Cycle Display Team
Corps Pipes & Drums )
Branch Standard Bearers Competition
Corps Parachute Display Team
Corps TA Band Musical Finale & Retreat
1800 hrs Entertainment & Buffet in Sgts' Mess & Semaphore Arms
Sun 30 June
0900 hrs Museum Open
1030 hrs Drumhead service on Hawke Square
1145 hrs March Past on Hawke Square
1200 hrs Dispersal. Lunch is available in the Regimental Restaurant provided it is pre-booked, for those not attending the Officers' Luncheon.
Recent Branch Events
On Sunday 3rd February, rain swept Selborne as we arrived, giving no portent of the pleasant day to come. Our members and friends arrived under umbrellas into a warm and welcoming interior of Selborne House, home of the 18th century naturalist, Gilbert White. Assembling in the cosy coffee shop for some light refreshment, we set off on our tour of this fascinating house. While the reception rooms and Gilbert White's bedroom were elegantly and simply furnished, the kitchen took one unawares, with implements never dreamed of in today's culinary world, suggesting the 18th century cook need ed to be a little more resourceful than her modern counterpart.
Above stairs, the museum dedicated to Captain Oates, the Arctic explorer, evoked an atmosphere of sadness in a small area, well laid out with photographs and extensive detail of the expedition, telling a story of great courage, hope and despair.
A short distance away, the French Horn, Alton, a traditional country pub, provided a splendid venue for an excellent lunch, during which the answers to our last newsletter Quiz were disclosed (See Annex 'A'), as also was the brilliant winner of the free lunch, none other than our Chairman, Noel Moss!
An almost full 53-seater coach on Sunday 10th March conveyed a party of members, partners and friends to a superbly interesting visit and guided tour of Bletchley Park, scene of some of the greatest intellectual achievements of the 20th century. It was quite fascinating, having driven along the uninspiring environs of Milton Keynes, to find oneself suddenly at this historic site with its preserved Mansion House and wartime huts, focal point of the unbelievably complex code-breaking and the resulting 'Ultra' Secret, which so dramatically shortened the war.
Our tour took us to the site of Alan Turing's house, to one of the huts housing equipment used in WW2 by the Diplomatic Wireless Service, along the Cryptology Trail and, of course, to view the Enigma machine and a rebuild of the Colossus computer. So much was there of interest that, despite being exposed much of the time to gale force winds which swept the country that Sunday, when the time came for the return journey most felt that an extra hour or so at Bletchley would have been very well spent.
In Memoriam
Major General JH Hild MBE
Henry Hild, who died on 5th December 2001, was President of our branch from 1993 until June 2001. It was an extra-mural task he tackled with all the patience, energy and wisdom that marked his distinguished career in the Army. He presided over the rejuvenation of the branch after a lean period, rarely missed a meeting and was always at pains to get to know members and encourage new ones to join.
He was widely respected and admired by all who served with him and held in some awe by his superiors and subordinates. To those above him he never flinched from giving blunt and direct advice no matter how unpopular it might be. To his juniors his demand for the highest standards made him a hard taskmaster. Yet beneath his single-minded determination on behalf of the Army and the Corps he was a man of considerable kindness, ever conscious of the needs of others. Very many people will remember the wonderful hospitality afforded them by Henry and Janet in the various homes they occupied throughout the world.
Henry was very much a Far East soldier and saw active service in Korea and Borneo. In the latter country he commanded a joint unit of soldiers and airmen during the period of the Indonesian confrontation where he was mentioned in dispatches. Borneo was followed by command of a squadron of Chinese soldiers in Hong Kong. Subsequently he commanded 18 Signal Regiment based in Singapore, a unit of some 1200 British, Malay, Indian, Chinese and Gurkha personnel. When back in the UK he commanded 1 Signal Group that had Signals Detachments located in Gan, Sharja, Malta, Gibraltar, Belize and Cyprus. It is believed he travelled an average of 44,000 miles a year to get round to visit all his units.
He occupied the influential post of Commandant of the School of Signals at Blandford and made it his task to help prepare the Army for the onset of the electronic battlefield. His final post, as major general, was Commander Communications HQ BAOR at a time of great change in the systems with which the Corps was equipped.
John Henry Hild was born in Frankfurt-am-Main on 28th March 1931 of a German father and Austrian mother. He lived in Vienna until he was six and was brought to England in 1938. He was educated by Dominican monks and remained a devout Catholic all his life as those who attended his funeral will realise. His immensely varied military career began with National Service in 1949 at the conclusion of which, like many others, he decided to stay on. He was commissioned into Royal Signals in 1952 from Sandhurst, but without the customary passing out parade which was cancelled at the last minute following the death of King George V1. In the last year of his life he had been instrumental in organising a reunion of those cadets at Sandhurst in April this year. His first posting after Sandhurst was to the 1st Commonwealth Division in Korea.
Sport and outdoor activities were an abiding interest, mainly as manager and supporter. At various times Henry ran Corps hockey, sport parachuting, skiing and ultimately sailing. He was a keen caravanner and became a Council Member of the Caravan Club. On leaving the Army he joined the board of Siemens (UK) with particular responsibility for their defence business.
He retained a deep interest in Corps affairs after he retired. He was made a Colonel Commandant and was a most effective member and chairman of the Corps Finance Committee for several years. In 1998 he was a richly deserving recipient of the Princess Mary medal for services to the Corps.
Our branch is much the poorer for the loss of General Henry. We mourn his passing but take pride in all that he achieved. Our thoughts are very much with Janet, Sarah and Robin to whom we extend our sincere condolences.
Lieutenant Colonel WTA Collyer
Tony Collyer, who was an active member of the branch, died suddenly on 27th November 2001 following an operation the previous day for a hip replacement. He will be sadly missed for his friendly manner, sense of humour and dedication to the aims of the Association and many other endeavours in which he was engaged.
He left Birkbeck College in 1939 at the age of 19 and joined the Army the following year, receiving an emergency commission in Royal Signals. A year later he was on his way to India around the Cape of Good Hope.
On arrival he attended a familiarisation course in the Indian Signal Training Centre, including basic instruction in Urdu, the language most widely used in the Indian Army. He took part in the Burma campaign, often under horrifying conditions about which he later rarely spoke. Tony returned to England in 1945 and was granted a regular commission in April that year at Catterick.
Soon afterwards his life changed when he met Joan, a driver in the ATS. Unfortunately, she was posted to Gresford in Wales soon after they met and so Tony spent much time commuting between Catterick and Wales at a time when such a journey was not at all easy. It was all worthwhile, however, for in 1946 the couple were married in Bristol.
After a twelve-month stint in the War Office, during which Tony managed to complete a degree course, Tony and Joan were posted back to the Signal Regiment serving HQ SE Asia Command in Singapore. Amongst his other attributes he was an enthusiastic sportsman particularly noted for his robust game of hockey.
After returning to England in 1950 there followed a period of important and varied service in UK, Germany, Cyprus and eventually the USA on an exchange appointment. During all this time Tony's technical qualifications were used to good effect in the Corps.
In 1971, after 30 years loyal service, retirement from the Army led to an equally active and fulfilling life in the civilian world. He worked successfully for EASAMS until 1984 and then applied his talents and energy to the work of the University of the Third Age (U3A) group of mature students in Farnham, whose Branch he initiated and became its first Chairman. He helped start a number of such groups in the local area as well as studying French and philosophy. He made many friends through U3A and in 1997, much to his pleasure, was elected Honorary President of the West Surrey Branch.
As we mourn the loss of a good friend but rejoice in a life of dedication and service to the Corps, our sympathies go out to Joan and the family.
Tailpiece for Computer Illiterati
Take heart any of you who believe you are technologically challenged. Here is an extract from a Wall Street Journal article:
Compaq is considering changing the command 'Press any key' to 'Press return key' because of the flood of calls asking where the 'Any' key is. A Dell technician advised his customer to put his troubled floppy back in the drive and close the door. The customer asked him to hold on and was heard putting the phone down and crossing the room to close the door. A woman phoned the Canon help desk with a problem with her printer. The technician asked if she was running it under 'Windows'. The woman responded 'No my desk is next to the door. But that's a good point; the man in the next cubicle is under a window and his printer is working fine'.
Annex 'A'
ANSWERS TO OUR CHRISTMAS QUIZ 2001
20 Questions about the 20th Century
1. What did WG Grace, Roger Bannister and Jonathan Miller have in common?
They were all doctors
2. What is the original nationality of Tom Stoppard?
Czechoslovakian
3. Which film star became Ambassador to Ghana and sued Graham Greene for libel?
Shirley Temple
4. Who said in 1974 “It will be years, and not in my time, before a woman will lead the Party and become Prime Minister”?
Margaret Thatcher
5. Name the racehorse allegedly kidnapped by the IRA in 1983?
Shergar
6. What is the relationship between Jon Snow and Peter Snow?
Cousins
7. Which US President was once a male model?
Gerald Ford
8. What did Mickey Rooney and Frank Sinatra have in common?
Both were married to Ava Gardner
9. Strowger invented the automatic telephone exchange. What was his business occupation?
Undertaker
10. Which historical character has most often been portrayed in films?
Napoleon
11. What rank did Idi Amin hold in the British Army?
Sergeant
12. Which film has employed the largest number of extras?
Ghandi
13. Which BBC radio broadcaster commentated on every test match played in England over a period of 34 years?
John Arlott
14. Which holds the record of the longest running comedy on the London stage?
No sex please, we're British
15. Which Nazi leader was imprisoned in the Tower of London?
Rudolf Hess
16. Which place of entertainment closed in 1644 and reopened in 1996?
The Globe Theatre, London
17. Who played both cricket and soccer for England?
Denis Compton
18. In which film did the climax take place in the sewers of Vienna?
The Third Man
19. How did the escapologist Harry Houdini die?
His appendix burst
20. Which brand first came up with the advertising slogan ‘I’m only here for the beer’?
Double Diamond
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Autumn 2001
Top
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
A reminder, with the Festive Season approaching, that the Corps Carol Service, will be sooner than usual, on Monday 17th December at 6pm at the Corps Church of St Stephen with St John, Rochester Row, London. It will be followed with the usual social gathering for Sherry and Mince Pies in the Church Hall. This is an event to which the Aldershot Branch traditionally gives strong support so do come along, enjoy the singing, meet old friends and possibly join up for an informal supper at the end.
HERALDING A GREAT STEP FORWARD: BRANCH WEB SITE!
Yes, thanks to the very considerable efforts of Mike Wilson, our Deputy Chairman elect, the Branch now has its very own Web site! Visit it now at: www,rsa-aldershot.org, where you can view, among other things, details of forthcoming events, current and previous Newsletters, the Association and Branch histories, Branch Committee members and their email addresses, the latest version of the Rules of the Association, plus links to other interesting and useful web sites. If you have Web access do take a look and let us have your feedback. Remember, the address is www.rsa-aldershot.org
AN EVENT POSTPONED: LUNCHEON AT THE ARMY SCHOOL OF CATERING
Those of you who expressed an interest in attending this special luncheon, originally scheduled for December 2001, will have been informed by Peter Sharpe of its postponement, due to ‘other military preoccupations’ since 11th September. We are, however, hoping that a possibility of holding this event may occur early in the New Year and Peter will keep interested members posted. Anyone who wishes to be added to the list should telephone or email him.
A VISIT TO GILBERT WHITE’S HOUSE & THE OATES MUSEUM AT SELBORNE to be followed by a pub lunch at ALTON
Sunday 3rd February 2002
Gilbert White’s charming 18th century country house, home of the famous naturalist Rev Gilbert White, lies in the village of Selborne near Alton in Hampshire. Its beautiful garden has been recreated to 18th century form. Within the building is housed the fascinating museum devoted to Captain Oates of Antarctic fame and Frank Oates, the Victorian explorer.
We plan a group visit to Gilbert White’s House on Sunday 3rd February, followed by a Pub lunch at The French Horn, The Butts, Alton.* The winner of the Christmas Quiz (See Annex ‘A’ to this Newsletter) will be awarded a free lunch at the pub, courtesy of the Branch funds!
Entrance to the Gilbert White House and garden at discounted rate for a group of at least 10 adults is £3.50 per head (Senior citizens £3). Your money will be collected on arrival, under branch arrangements.
Please arrive by 10.45 am at the Gilbert White House. Biscuits and coffee will be available in the house for a small extra cost. You will be free to tour at your own speed and then proceed to Alton to arrive by 1.00 pm for drinks and lunch. Individuals will be responsible for their own pub payments.
To enable us to make arrangements for the visit and reservations for the lunch, please complete and return Annex ‘B’ to reach Neville Lyons at the address shown by 24 January 2002.
* French Horn Pub,The Butts, Alton. From Selborne take the B3006 to Alton. At Roundabout turn left under railway bridge to A32 Basingstoke. First turning left to Pub.
A VISIT TO BLETCHLEY PARK
Sunday 10th March 2002
Public interest in Bletchley Park has increased enormously since the recent release of the film ‘Enigma’. As the best kept secret of World War II, Winston Churchill described Bletchley Park and the codebreakers who worked there as ‘the secret weapon that won the war’.
Bletchley Park Trust has opened the site to the general public every weekend since July 2001. Visitors enjoy a guided tour and can follow the Cryptology Trail to discover in detail the journey that a coded message took. Learn how messages were intercepted and delivered to the Park. Marvel at the incredibly complex processes of decryption, translation, interpretation and analysis that were needed to produce the vital intelligence. Discover the impact of that intelligence upon the outcome of WWII and upon all our lives.
The site now includes a new video in a wartime cinema, describing how the ‘Enigma’ film was made and you will also see exhibits from the film set.
We are arranging a group visit there on Sunday 10th March. A 53-seater coach is being booked to pick up the party at Farnham Station at 9.45 am. We aim to return to Farnham by approximately 5pm. We expect to have at least 30 passengers, including members, their partners and their guests and the cost per head for the coach will £10.50. If the numbers rise above 30, then refunds will be made accordingly.
The Admission fee to Bletchley Park, to include guided tour, is £6 per head. We shall be purchasing these tickets in advance. Light refreshments are available in Hut 4, the Mansion NAAFI and the Crypto Café in H Block.
To enable us to make detailed arrangements, please complete and return Annex ‘C’ with cheques for £16.50 per head (covering coach, admission and guided tour), made out to ’Royal Signals Association, Aldershot Branch’, to reach Peter Sharpe by 20 February 2002.
SPRING LUNCHEON AND AGM
In the Garrison Sergeants’ Mess
Sunday 14th April 2002
We are delighted to announce that the precedent set by Joe Fairbairn of enabling the use the Garrison Sergeants’ Mess for our Branch events is to continue through the good offices of Ray Pritchard, our new Mess Liaison Member and by kind permission of the Mess Committee.
The Spring Lunch and AGM will again be held there on Sunday 14 April 2002 and the programme will be:
From 12 Noon: Meet for drinks in the Anteroom 12.30 p.m.: AGM in the Anteroom Following the AGM, Lunch served from the Dining Room, buffet style, consisting of a starter, roast main course and dessert. Those requiring a vegetarian meal should make their requests in Annex ‘C’.
Cost per head will be £12.
There is much to discuss and changes to the committee to be agreed, so we hope that ALL members will make a special effort to attend this year.
Please complete Annex ‘D’ and return with your cheque to reach Peter Sharpe by 28 March 2002.
And future events for your Diaries Details will be in our next Newsletter, SO WATCH THIS SPACE!
Thursday 16 May Our Eighth Annual Quiz Night, Garrison Sgts’ Mess
Saturday 8 June Dress Rehearsal for Trooping the Colour
Saturday 29 June RSA Annual Reunion, Blandford
Sunday 30 June Reunion Church Service, Officers Luncheon
Sunday 21 July Barbecue, Garrison Sergeants’ Mess
Wednesday 7 August Sovereign’s Parade Dress Rehearsal. RMA
Wednesday 7 August Evening Concert, Keller Hall
Sunday 29 September Possible visit to Chartwell
Sunday 27 October Autumn Lunch, Aldershot Army Golf Club
ANNUAL WELFARE APPEAL
We again appeal to the generosity of members for donations to the Royal Signals Association Central Fund. The Branch has collected for the last four years for this good cause, raising so far a total approaching £750. RHQ has greatly welcomed our annual contributions and they publish examples of deserving cases regularly in ‘The Wire’.
Please make a special effort to remember ex-members of the Corps who have fallen on hard times and use the form at Annex ‘E’ to this Newsletter to send your contributions to the Treasurer. Members may, of course, give anonymous contributions if they wish.
RECENT BRANCH ACTIVITIES
Sovereign’s Parade Rehearsal and Kneller Hall Concert, 8th August 2001
Wednesday 8th August was unusual for the branch because we had two major events on the same day. This was not due to bad planning, but to our wish to enjoy the last night of the 2001 Kneller Hall season which happened to fall on the same day as our traditional visit to the rehearsal for the Sovereign’s Parade at Sandhurst.
For the parade the weather remained fine - just. At the end of our picnic lunch the heavens opened but we were able to take shelter in the cricket pavilion and discuss a most enjoyable event. The number of spectators was greater this year and we were glad that, in all, we had sponsored over 100 of them. Apart from our own members there were substantial parties from Reading, Southampton, West London and East Kent Branches together with 30 members and wives of the East Kent Korean War Veterans Association, to whom the Commandant paid tribute in his remarks after the march past. We were delighted to see all our friends from around the SE corner of England and hope they will continue to support this event.
By the evening of the same day the sun had returned and so, 30 of our own members were able to have the second picnic of the day in the grounds of Kneller Hall adjacent to Twickenham Rugby Ground. Suitably refreshed we all adjourned to the arena to listen to the massed military bands perform under the direction of the trainee bandmasters. It was a fine performance that concluded with fireworks as a backdrop to the finale of the 1812 Overture.
At £4 per head there is no better value anywhere. We have decided to book in advance for 2002 in order to get seats much nearer to the front. We advise you to watch this space in the next Newsletter so as to take advantage of a really unique British Army show.
Autumn Lunch, 30th September 2001
Once again Branch members met in the congenial surroundings of the Army Golf Club in Aldershot for lunch on Sunday 30th September. This date was a little earlier than in past years, and numbers were somewhat affected by the absence of late holidaymakers. Nevertheless, the assembled company enjoyed the choice of three excellent curries and much lively conversation.
Mike and Jean Wilson ran a successful raffle, raising the very healthy sum of £92 for Branch funds. There were reports of our Treasurer, Peter Sharpe, breaking into a broad smile!
Petworth in Autumn, 21st October 2001
18 members and friends journeyed southwards to the impressive property of Petworth House for our October meeting. We were particularly glad to have Jeanne and Bruce Beattie with us once again for this trip. Fortuitously the chosen date fell in the middle of the Indian Summer and most were thus able to work up an appetite for lunch by means of an invigorating walk through part of the vast Deer Park surrounding the house. The map reading of some members was a little rusty and at one point the President’s party was seen heading in exactly the opposite direction to the party of the organiser, Carole Thomas. Fortunately, all made it in time for a healthy National Trust lunch in the restaurant. This enabled Carole really to come into her own, making sure of strict discipline in the queue at the serving counter!
After lunch those who wished toured the house, which has a fine collection of paintings and statuary, with ample volunteers on hand to explain the finer points and answer questions. In all, a most enjoyable visit, just before Petworth (and most other NT properties) put up their shutters for the winter. Our thanks go to Carole.
Remembrance 2001
The Branch strongly supports upholding the traditions of Remembrance Day in the Aldershot area and thus to honour fallen members of the Corps. Once again, we participated in the event at the Canadian Section of the Brookwood War Cemetery on the morning of Saturday 10th November. The superb Autumn morning added poignancy to a moving ceremony as did the haunting sound of the pipers of the Gordon Boys School. Jane Knight laid a wreath on behalf of the Branch. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Canadian Defence Attache paid tribute to the Normandy veterans who had paraded in fine style and referred to the 100,000 Canadian war dead throughout the world.
On Remembrance Day itself the Branch was represented at the service in the Royal Garrison Church in Aldershot. Our Deputy Chairman, Mike Wilson, laid our wreath.
COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS
DEPUTY CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY
Subject to confirmation at the next AGM, we are pleased to announce that Mike Wilson has agreed to fill the newly created post of Deputy Chairman and his role as Membership will be taken by John Martin, whom we are very pleased to welcome to the Committee.
BRANCH WELFARE
Ian Ronald has taken on the role of the Branch Welfare Officer. With his long experience with SSAFA, Forces Help, the RBL and other ex-Service Associations, he is well placed to help anyone in need, advising on Benefits, War Pensions and other support available from relevant charities etc. He may be contacted by phone or e-mail as shown in the table overleaf. If requested he will visit homes.
Some Tommy Cooper Mayhem (Better, we think, than Xmas Crackers) (With acknowledgements to website www.hellsgeriatrics .com)
Police arrested two kids yesterday, one was drinking battery acid, the other was eating fireworks. They charged one and let the other one off.
He said “ I’m going to chop off the bottom of one of your trouser legs and put it in a library”. I thought “That’s a turn-up for the books”.
You know, someone actually complimented me on my driving today. They left a little note on the windscreen; it said ‘Parking fine’. So that was nice.
Apparently, 1 in 5 people in the world are Chinese. There are 5 people in my family, so it must be one of them. It’s either my mum or my dad, or my older brother Colin, or my younger brother Ho-Cha-Chu. But I think it’s Colin.
So, I was in my car and I was driving along and my boss rang up and he said “You’ve been promoted”. And I swerved. And then he rang up a second time and he said “You’ve been promoted again”. And I swerved again. He rang up a third time and said “You’re Managing Director”. And I went into a tree. And a policeman came up and said “What happened to you?” And I said “I careered off the road”.
STOP PRESS
Resulting from our new Website, we have had a rapid contact from the secretary of the 260 Signal Squadron (SAM) R Signals Association. He seeks our help in tracing over 200 ex-soldiers serving with the squadron, 654 and 655 Signal Troops in the period 1965-1977, when the squadron was disbanded. The squadron plans a special reunion in 2002 to mark the 25th anniversary of the disbandment.
Any branch members who served in these units are invited to contact former colleagues on their association website: www.260sigsqnsam.abelgratis.co.uk,
A QUIZ FOR THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS
20 Questions about the 20th Century
Two years ago, just before the turn of the century (!), we published a Quiz covering notable events of the past millennium. This time, we have narrowed the coverage to the past century. Some of the answers will spring to mind; others may need just a little research or discussion when you are at a loose end during the holiday period. Have a go; you may surprise yourself and win a free pub lunch on Sunday 3rdh February! Please send your answers to Neville Lyons
1. What did WG Grace, Roger Bannister and Jonathan Miller have in common?
2. What is the original nationality of Tom Stoppard?
3. Which film star became Ambassador to Ghana and sued Graham Greene for libel?
4. Who said in 1974 “It will be years, and not in my time, before a woman will lead the Party and become Prime Minister”?
5. Name the racehorse allegedly kidnapped by the IRA in 1983?
6. What is the relationship between Jon Snow and Peter Snow?
7. Which US President was once a male model?
8. What did Mickey Rooney and Frank Sinatra have in common?
9. Strowger invented the automatic telephone exchange. What was his business occupation?
10. Which historical character has most often been portrayed in films?
11. What rank did Idi Amin hold in the British Army?
12. Which film has employed the largest number of extras?
13. Which BBC radio broadcaster commentated on every test match played in England over a period of 34 years?
14. Which holds the record of the longest running comedy on the London stage?
15. Which Nazi leader was imprisoned in the Tower of London?
16. Which place of entertainment closed in 1644 and reopened in 1996?
17. Who played both cricket and soccer for England?
18. In which film did the climax take place in the sewers of Vienna?
19. How did the escapologist Harry Houdini die?
20. Which brand first came up with the advertising slogan ‘I’m only here for the beer’?
To apply for a place on any of the events listed, please use the form on your member's newsletter.
Summer 2001
Top
Mercury
Newsletter of the Aldershot Branch Royal Signals Association
Summer 2001
A WARM WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS
We are delighted to announce that WO1 (RSM) Eric Udell and WO2 Ray Pritchard have joined the branch and the committee, to provide essential linkage with the serving Corps in Aldershot and the Garrison Sergeants Mess. We warmly welcome them and their wives.
……and SINCERE FAREWELLS
With regret we have to bid farewell to three staunch members of the branch and their wives:
Henry and Janet Hild. We have been privileged to have General Henry as our Branch President for the last nine years. He is an outstanding officer of the Corps who has guided the affairs of the branch wisely and assiduously throughout that period, supported throughout by Janet. Ill health has caused them to move away from the Aldershot area to be closer to their family. We thank them both for all they have given us and extend every good wish to them for the future.
Paddy and Barbara Verdon. Paddy and Barbara have also moved away from our area after supporting the committee and branch in many ways over a period of many years. We wish them well in their new home and hope to see them from time to time in the future.
Joe and Jane Fairbairn. We have been most fortunate to have Joe Fairbairn as Garrison Sergeant Major of Aldershot for the last three years. Despite his many other duties and responsibilities he has always found time to assist the Association and has thus provided an essential link between the serving and retired Corps in Aldershot. He will leave a gap both in the branch and in the garrison. We wish him and Jane and their children a very happy and successful tour of duty in Cyprus
The departure of three such loyal and respected members was marked by a dinner at a local restaurant at the end of April. Presentations were made on behalf of the branch to Henry Hild and Joe Fairbairn, while Paddy Verdon received Honour Membership of the Association as conferred by the Central Committee earlier in the month.
FORTHCOMING BRANCH AND LOCAL EVENTS
AUTUMN LUNCH AT THE ALDERSHOT ARMY GOLF CLUB
Sunday 30th September 2001
12.30 for 1 pm
Following last year’s highly acclaimed Autumn Lunch at the Army Golf Club, we have again chosen this as our venue.
There will be a three-course lunch, the main course being a Curry, but special diets will be catered for if requested. The starter will be on the table, to enable us to sit down and enjoy the first course straight away. Cost of the lunch will again be £13 per head. Individuals will be responsible for ordering their own drinks.
Please complete Annex ‘A’ and return to Peter Sharpe with cheque by 20 September.
PETWORTH IN AUTUMN
Sunday 21st October 2001
12 Noon; assemble in the Restaurant at Petworth House
Before it closes for the winter, come with us to visit Petworth House and grounds. This property, set in the Sussex countryside, belongs to the National Trust. It is a grand house dating from 1688 with many interesting features and contains the finest collection of paintings and sculpture in the care of the NT.
Members should aim to arrive at the car park when it opens at noon and then meet up in the restaurant by 12.15. There we will enjoy a lunch selected from the menu of historic dishes plus dish of the day. After lunch members are free to tour the house (which opens at 1pm) and/or walk in the extensive grounds and park (700 acres including a deer herd). This should enable a good appetite for tea (for example Victorian cream team) for those not overly concerned with their diet (most!).
Members who would like to join in this interesting visit are asked to fill in the form attached at Annex ‘B’ and return to Peter Sharpe by 8 October. We ask that you send a cheque for £10 to cover the basic cost of lunch. Those who sign up for this will be sent a menu and a leaflet about the house beforehand. Some small financial adjustment will be necessary on the day to cover, for example, drinks.
Entrance to the house after lunch (from 1.00 pm) is free to National Trust members (remember to bring your card) and £6 for adults. This reduces to £5.50 if we attain a group of more than 15.
Dogs, under control, are allowed in the grounds but not in the house. The same applies to photography.
SPECIAL LUNCHEON AT THE ARMY SCHOOL OF CATERING
Wednesday 5th or 12th or 19th December 2001 (provisional dates)
We have the opportunity of attending a luncheon at the Army School of Catering, St Omer Barracks, Aldershot, which will be prepared and served by graduating students from all three Services. We understand from those who have attended similar functions that the occasion is well organised and the meal and service are of very high standard, as the students are ‘on show’ before becoming chefs to various Officers’ Messes in this country and overseas.
A 4-course meal with coffee will be served, all for the extraordinarily low cost of not more than £4.75 per head. There will also be a cash bar. Up to 40 diners are invited to attend.
The exact date is provisional at this stage, but is expected to be either Wednesday 5th or 12th or 19th December. Those who state their interest will be given further details when they are available (likely to be early October). At this stage, all you need do is to complete the form at Annex ‘C’ and return to Peter Sharpe by 15 October, so that you can be mailed when details are known.
REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONIES
Once again the Branch will take part in Remembrance Day events in the Aldershot area and it is hoped that members will give their support.
Brookwood Military Cemetery. The Normandy Veterans will parade at the Brookwood Military Cemetery at 10.30 am on Saturday 10th November. The parade and service takes place in the section of the cemetery where many Canadian war dead are buried and therefore representatives of the Canadian High Commission and Armed Forces take part.
Royal Garrison Church. The traditional service at the Royal Garrison Church in Aldershot will take place at 10.30 am on Remembrance Sunday, 11th November. A feature of this year’s service is that the date actually coincides with Remembrance Day, giving even greater meaning to the two minutes silence. This is expected to be very well attended and members should aim to be seated in good time. Ample car parking space is available under the direction of the RMP.
Royal British Legion, Fleet. At 3 pm on Sunday 11th November our standard will also be paraded at a short service at the Civic Centre, Fleet.
OTHER BRANCHES’ EVENTS
Reading Branch Dinner
Saturday 29th September 2001
Reading Branch’s Annual Dinner - their thirty-first - is to take place in Brock Barracks Reading on Saturday 29th September at 7.30 for 8pm. The dress is Dinner Jacket and the Guest of Honour is the Signal Officer-in-Chief, Brigadier Cedric Burton. Please apply to our secretary, Jane Knight, if you would like to attend this enjoyable annual event, at which we expect to display our standard along with those of other local branches
FUTURE CORPS EVENTS
ANNUAL RSI LONDON LECTURE
Thursday 29 November 2001
6.45 for 7.30pm
This year’s lecture will again be held at the Institute of Directors, 116 Pall Mall, London. The speaker will be Sir John Chisholm, Chief Executive of DERA.
Full details and application form will be found in the RHQ Newsletter dated February 2001.
CORPS CAROL SERVICE
Monday 17 December 2001
The Corps Carol service will be held as usual at the Corps Church, St Stephen with St John, Rochester Row. London on Monday 17 December, beginning at 6pm.
The service will be followed with the usual gathering for Sherry and Mince pies at the Church Hall.
RECENT BRANCH ACTIVITIES
Branch Dinner, 6th April 2001
Following the success of the Anniversary Dinner in 1999, another dinner was held in April this year. 70 members and friends sat down in the Garrison Sergeants Mess in the presence of Major General Tony Boyle, the newly appointed Chairman of the Association, and his wife Ann. Strong representation from Reading Branch was also in evidence. During and after the splendid meal, the Farnborough band of the Royal British Legion, under the direction of Captain Eddy Brown gave a spirited and much appreciated performance, including a selection of regimental marches.
Fortuitously, the event coincided with the Golden Wedding Anniversary of Betty and Nigel Ribchester who attended with members of their family and close friends. The Branch President, Maj Gen Henry Hild, presented Betty with a bouquet to mark the occasion. This part of the evening was nicely rounded off when General Boyle presented Nigel with his 50 Year Badge which had been confirmed by the Central Committee that morning.
Once again members expressed their appreciation of a most enjoyable occasion in the true spirit of a full regimental dinner. There are likely to be requests for a repeat performance in the future.
Seventh Annual Quiz Night, 17th May 2001
From humble beginnings in 1995, our Quiz Night has arguably become the most successful event in our annual calendar. This year it attracted over 100 contestants for the first time. In addition to Aldershot, teams came from West London and Reading branches and we were delighted to see them once again. There was also very strong representation from the Garrison, with teams from all Royal Signals units taking part, along with teams from the Sergeants Mess.
Neville Lyons, assisted by a small band of helpers to keep the scores and see fair play, conducted the quiz itself with his usual authority and good humour. The severity of some of the questions seemed to bring on unexpected hunger amongst the contestants, causing the only slight hitch in the proceedings when the buffet ran out! Undeterred, a scavenging party, led by the Garrison Sergeant Major, raided the nether regions of the mess to make additional sandwiches.
Honours this year went to an Aldershot team rejoicing in the name Adam, Lims 3 from the Garrison Mess, The Footmen from Reading Branch and By the Right from 228 Signal Squadron. Congratulations to them for outstanding performances, and indeed to all contestants.
Evening Cruise on the Basingstoke Canal, 13th June 2001
Twenty four members and guests were greeted with a welcoming glass of wine on the quayside at the Basingstoke Canal Centre, Mytchett, before boarding the Narrow-boat, Merlin, for a 3-hour cruise down the canal. The boat was operated by a husband-and-wife team, Nick and Irene Scott, Nick piloting the boat and giving a commentary on the points of interest en route, including the varied wild-life;Irene serving an excellent buffet with strawberries and cream for dessert . All this, coupled with the bar on board, offered a highly enjoyable, relaxing and unusual way of spending a summer’s evening.
Association Reunion, 2001-Presentation of 75 Year Pennant
Members of the Branch supported the Annual Reunion at Blandford over the weekend of 23-24 June, as well as the Officers Luncheon on the Sunday. It was an enjoyable occasion blessed with beautifully warm, sunny weather. Fred Bridges, immaculate as ever, paraded our standard and, on behalf of the Branch, very proudly accepted the presentation of the 75-Year Pennant by the Master of Signals. This will now be carried on our standard in place of the 50-Year Pennant awarded previously.
Following the Sunday church service, at which the Chaplain General officiated, and the traditional March Past, the new Rock Garden presented to Blandford Camp by the Association was officially opened and consecrated. Members will recall that Aldershot, along with other branches, made a donation last year to the cost of this new feature with its commemorative plaque located outside the entrance to The Princess Mary Hall.
COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES
The departure of General Hild will, in due course, occasion some changes to the branch committee. Temporarily, Noel Moss is holding the fort as President and Chairman. He will be assisted by a Vice-Chairman, whose name will be put to the next AGM.
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