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Report on the 45th Anniversary of the formation of the 102 Entry RAF Halton Apprentice scheme, by Paul Hern
Reunion held at the Red Lion Hotel Wendover 21 to 23 September 2007.
Seventeen past members of the Entry and thirteen of their wives sat down to dine at the Red Lion on the evening of Saturday 22 September 2007. Four of their number who had booked provisionally, were unable to attend.
Dave Land, John Golding, Colin Rawlings, Derek Weeks, Ron & Irene Taylor, Paul & Alaine Hern, Noel & Elaine Jones,
Bob & Jeanette Daly, Mick & Jean Golder, Tony & Anne Dosser, Mick & Margaret White, Andrew & Carole Gowing,
Tom & Carol Mulholland, Ray & Carol Hearn, Peter & Anne Allen, Henry & Ann Hall, Danny & Merican Jayakody.
Unable to Attend, Ian & Lorna Glithero, Terry & Anne Moore,
It was pleasing to note that of those coming together two, namely Derek Weeks and Bob Daley were joining a reunion for the first time. Four of the ladies present were also along for their first time as well, Carol Mulholland, Anne Allen, Jeanette Daley and Merican Jayakody.
Most of the party had assembled at the hotel on the Friday night and after some socialising departed for an early night. The hotel was not perfect with several members experiencing less than pleasing conditions but as Paul Hern explained, the hotel had undergone three changes of owners since he first made the initial reservations; the intended refurbishment delayed until after our visit. Perhaps they were expecting a riot? Some adjustments were made (to room allocation and bills) and (honour being satisfied) all were reasonably happy. The food and service from Alison the manager rather saved the day and a grand meal was enjoyed by all on the Saturday night.
A mention must be made here of the great input from Tom Mulholland who piped us into dinner and then finished off with a peabroch. Derek Weeks played several tunes but as it had been forty years since he blew a set of pipes Tom blew and Derek played – first time anyone had seen pipes played in tandem! All appreciated the effort.
The Event
The day went extremely well with the weather absolutely perfect for the occasion. No other members turned up unexpectedly and the event was supported by upwards of 1200 Ex Apprentices. Precise numbers will no doubt appear at some stage from the RAFHAAA Committee. A DVD has been produced by the RAFHAAA and copies will be available through their website at some stage.
The Ladies spent the morning in Aylesbury, travelling by train, or in Wendover meeting up at about 15.00 hours with the men folk for the Church Service, or at the workshops. It was interesting that the song the Beech Leaves was presented; a tune our entry was not familiar with but none the less suitably nostalgic. Paul & Alaine were at short notice co-opted into the church choir by Min Larkin who felt it needed beefing up - say no more! Following the final parade on the square and the march up the hill, it was resolved by the ladies to ensure that an entry banner was made available by 2010, the next Triennial.
On Saturday morning Paul Hern played reveille to wake up those undergoing the Barrack Room Experience (some 75 chaps it is understood) at RAF Halton and then marched them to breakfast at Henderson Mess. Later Tom Mulholland, Mick Golder and he all participated in the band for the marches from the Airfield and Church.
It was agreed that the finale on the square (supported by sunshine and mild airs) was excellent with the tune Highland Cathedral most poignant and suitable for the occasion.
Conclusion
An excellent time was had by all and it was pity not more could attend – however all are encouraged to make an effort for 2010. Many thanks to everyone who did make the effort to attend and we all look forward to meeting up again.
It was agreed that Henry Hall will produce an interim event in about 18 month’s time – say spring 2009. RAF Cosford's new Cold War Museum was proposed as the main theme. Keep in touch.
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Friday and Saturday night celebrations!
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Oh come on Andy
Tom's playing
ain't that bad!
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You blow
and
I'll play!
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