Production of Training Aids and GTE using Additive Manufacturing
AR Turnbull excels in Avionics Training
AOCs visit RAF Cosford for Annual Formal Inspection
Road Safety Day
RAF Benevolent Fund News
RAF Association Armourers Branch Standard Dedicated at Cosford
Poppy Appeal Count 2025
Cosford Celebrates with Veterans and Community
Cosford Remembers
Padre’s Piece
3*Air and Space Commanders Commendation for WO Pringle
City & Guilds Honours Cyberspace Team
Royal Air Force’s Warrant Officer’s conference
RAF Cosford Leaders Join Historic Hindu Ceremony
MPs Gain Insight into RAF Cosford’s Training Excellence
RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC)
Cosford Motorcycle Club Summer Season
National Fitness Day
RAF Cosford Triumphs Over RAF Cranwell in RAF Cup Opener
FROM THE EDITOR FOREWORD
As 2025 draws to a close, this winter edition of the Apprentice Magazine offers a chance to pause and reflect on what has been a busy few months since our last edition but also on an exceptionally busy and rewarding year for RAF Cosford.
From hosting the highprofile WORAF Conference to celebrating excellence at the Astra Awards and taking part in numerous parades that showcased the professionalism and pride of our personnel, the station has been at the heart of many significant moments.
Christmas is a time for everyone to unwind, celebrate, and enjoy the season in their own way. Whether with family, friends, or simply taking time for yourself, it is an opportunity to recharge before the station opens again on 5 January 2026.
On behalf of the editorial team, thank you for your continued support and contributions throughout the year. We look forward to sharing more stories, achievements, and celebrations with you in the year ahead.
BY WING COMMANDER RUTH WILSON BSC RAF
Welcome to the Winter 2025 edition of the Cosford Apprentice.
As 2025 draws to a close and 2026 beckons with fresh opportunities, this is a moment to celebrate the achievements and spirit that define RAF Cosford.
This winter edition of the Apprentice Magazine captures that essence – the energy, pride, and camaraderie that make our station such a special place to serve and learn.
Within these pages, you’ll find highlights of the spirited Cosford versus Cranwell football match – a reminder that competition and teamwork go hand in hand in building resilience and friendship across our Service. We also honour the outstanding achievement of Air Recruit Turnbull, whose success reflects the dedication and determination that inspire us all.
Recent months have brought significant moments for the station, including the AFI by AOC 2 Gp and AOC 22 Gp – a valuable opportunity to showcase the professionalism and commitment of our personnel. Equally memorable was the Veterans’ Christmas Lunch, where generations came together to share stories, strengthen bonds, and honour the enduring legacy of service.
As we prepare to welcome 2026, I encourage each of you to reflect on and take pride in your contributions over the past year – whether on the parade square,
in the classroom, or out in the wider community. The year ahead will bring new challenges and opportunities, and I am confident that together we will continue to uphold the highest standards of the Royal Air Force.
Thank you for your hard work, enthusiasm, and commitment.
For those fortunate enough to be at home with loved ones, may this Christmas bring peace and joy; for those deployed, know that our thoughts and gratitude are with you. As we step into the new year, let us carry forward the pride, professionalism, and camaraderie that make RAF Cosford exceptional.
Production of Training Aids and GTE using Additive Manufacturing
To address the replacement of existing, ageing and costly training aids that are approaching their natural end of life, a cost-effective solution has been developed in-house by the Integrated Training Solutions (ITS) organisation using additive manufacturing.
While several commercial options were proposed, these were deemed financially unviable. An opportunity for DSAE to enhance its 3D printing capabilities was a preferred and more costeffective option, resulting in a fully accredited in-house solution. This advancement not only reduces costs but also improves the clarity and effectiveness of training aids. It also provides a support
mechanism and a scalable solution for future GTE projects.
Using a 3D model of the A330, the design was refined and optimised to highlight control surfaces and secondary control surfaces through intuitive colour coding. These 6 models were handed over to Mr Dave Warner APO BL on Monday 22 Sep 25 by OC ITS (D) Mrs Sarah Wharton, SNCO ITS (D) Sgt Andy Gladden and team member Cpl Ian Davis who have been the driving force behind this new enterprise.
AR Turnbull excels in Avionics Training
AR Turnbull is a Phase 2 trainee on the Avionics technician training course at Aero-Systems Training Squadron, Number 1 School of Technical Training (SofTT).
From the start of the course, AR Turnbull has stood out as an exceptional aviator. Her performance across academic exams, practical assessments, exercises and overall deportment has been highly impressive leading her to be recognised for 9 separate individual laudatory reports and contributing to a further 3 for her whole course and was chosen to represent No1 School as a guest of one of the RAF Cosford Airshow commercial sponsors.
For her performance thus far in training, Turnbull was nominated for the Jackie Moggridge award which is ‘Awarded to the female aircrew or engineer who has best demonstrated outstanding potential through their determination, skill, enthusiasm and teamwork in the course of their specialist professional training’. She is an outstanding
ambassador for the Service and has been highlighted as a trainee with a high degree of potential and the qualities to apply for Commission in the future should she choose to pursue it.
We are delighted to announce that Runway25 has taken over all Military Customers for embroidered goods from Terrane Ltd This includes name badges, patches and clothing. We will aim to expand our range as we go. Runway25 is now set up to continue Terrane’s legacy by making name badges, tour T-shirts, clothing and lots more in house.
Finding the right mortgage broker to help with your mortgage can be difficult for anyone, but for those serving in the armed forces it becomes a bigger challenge as many brokers do not have the experience to fully understand your circumstances. Even explaining your payslips can become a major task.
PFL Mortgages are specialists for the armed forces, and as part of their pledge to the Armed Forces Covenant, for miliary families they have removed the barrier of their standard £395 broker fee, offering their service to you free of charge.
Arranging your mortgage is only part of their service. They will help you from the day you first think about a mortgage, explaining the whole process of house buying or remortgaging, and remain with you every step of the way.
PFL Mortgages work with over 60 lenders, including every major bank and building society in the UK. They are regulated by the Financial Services Authority, which means that they are required by law to find the best deals for you.
Managing Director Graham Salloway says ‘As with most mortgage brokers in the UK, we are paid a commission by the lender. Offering our service free of charge affects our profits, and we can make a small loss in some cases. But by offering the deal to all military families including veterans, it has enabled us to grow our military client base substantially.’
AOCs visit RAF Cosford for Annual Formal Inspection
In the final week of November, RAF Cosford welcomed both Air Officer Commanding No. 2 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Appleton and Air Officer Commanding No. 22 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Sharrocks for this year’s Annual Formal Inspection (AFI).
During their visit, the AOCs toured key areas across the station, meeting personnel and seeing first-hand the dedication and professionalism that underpins everything we do.
The day also included a townhall session, providing an open forum for discussion and engagement, followed by an honours and awards ceremony where outstanding achievements and contributions were celebrated.
The AFI is always a valued opportunity to highlight the hard work, innovation, and commitment of everyone at RAF Cosford. We are proud to showcase the station’s role in supporting the Royal Air Force and to recognise the exceptional individuals who make it all possible.
ROAD SAFETY DAY
Monday 15 September was Road Safety Day at RAF Cosford. Both internal and external agencies supported the event with educational stands to teach our whole force personnel about the importance of road safety. Thank you to everyone involved and to the RAF Police for organising such an educational event.
What financial challenges might serving personnel face?
We speak to Michelle Taylor, Beneficiary Relationship Manager at the RAF Benevolent Fund about the financial support available for serving personnel and their families, how to access the support, and what the application process involves.
What is your role at the RAF Benevolent Fund?
I’m the Beneficiary Relationship Manager at the Fund, overseeing the Welfare Navigators who are our first point of contact for those seeking support, and the Applications Team, who guide people through the process of accessing help.
We work closely with our external case working partners, RAF stations, and partners like Lightning Reach to assess needs and deliver timely support. Across all teams, we value making a meaningful difference during times of hardship, by listening with empathy, offering a safe space and ensuring people receive the practical help they need.
Our shared goal is to ensure everyone who reaches out
to us feels heard, supported, and empowered.
What financial support is available for serving members of the RAF Family?
The Fund can provide financial support in many ways, assessed on a case-by-case basis if the eligibility criteria is met. This includes help with essential household items such as white and brown goods, temporary financial assistance, care top-up fees, and much more.
Some of the challenges faced by the serving community that may make you eligible for support include:
relocation, or the need for support with household essentials.
• Health and wellbeing –physical or mental health difficulties, including the need for counselling, family therapy, or support for children and young people.
Caring responsibilities –additional pressures when caring for dependents, elderly relatives, or family members with complex needs.
• Transition and change – adjusting to new circumstances, deployments, or other life events that impact stability and resilience.
How can RAF families apply for support and stay informed of the full range of services available to them?
A great place for RAF families to start is the RAF Benevolent Fund website, which provides clear information on the full range of services and support available. Families can learn about financial assistance, welfare guidance, counselling services, and practical help for daily life.
Support is available by phone on 0300 102 0919. You can apply for financial support online at
rafbf.org/get-support/financialassistance.
Is the application process confidential?
Yes, the process is completely confidential. Any information shared with the Fund, whether through the Welfare Navigators, counselling services, or the applications team, is handled with the strictest privacy. Details are only used to assess and provide appropriate support, and are never shared without the individual’s consent, except where there is a legal or safeguarding requirement.
What support is available for serving personnel transitioning into civilian life?
Serving personnel transitioning into civilian life can access a range of support to help make the process smoother. This includes financial assistance for things like rental deposits, essential white and brown goods, and other practical needs.
For those who may be finding the transition challenging, our Listening and Counselling Service is available, offering individual counselling, family therapy, and support for children and young people.
You can find out more about the help available and apply for support at rafbf.org/get-support/financial-assistance or call the RAF Benevolent Fund on 0300 102 0919 to speak to someone today.
RAF Association Armourers Branch Standard Dedicated at Cosford
Last month, the RAF Association Armourers Branch Standard was formally dedicated at the RAF Cosford Chaplaincy.
We were proud to see some of our Weapons Technician apprentices attend the ceremony, paying tribute to this important milestone.
Poppy Appeal Count 2025
During the final week of November 2025, staff and trainees began the money count for the Poppy Collection under the Royal British Legion.
The total count during this week, across four counties, was £278,209.76. This set (what was understood) to be a new record for the RBL with £64,000 being counted in a single day.
The Royal British Legion (RBL) is a UK-based charity that supports the Armed Forces communityincluding serving personnel,
veterans, and their familiesthrough a wide range of services.
It provides expert advice, practical support, and lifelong assistance, covering areas such as mental and physical health, financial aid, and housing. The RBL also campaigns on behalf of the community and organises the annual Poppy Appeal.
Festive Thanks: Cosford Celebrates with Veterans and Community
On 02 December, we welcomed veterans and senior citizens to station for Christmas dinner and entertainment within the Sergeants Mess.
The afternoon consisted of meeting station personnel, dancing and even a caricaturist. The event was a great way to say thank you for their continued support to station and the Royal Air Force.
Cosford Remembers
Menin Gate Parade
During their visit to Saint-Omer, as part of Exercise Spirit of Saint-Omer, personnel from RAF Cosford paraded at the Menin Gate in Ypres.
Menin Gate is a memorial to
Saint-Omer Parade
the British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient. The names of over 54,000 men who have no known grave are inscribed on the memorial’s walls. This includes the sacrifices of those who served in the RAF
On 11 November, personnel from RAF Cosford paraded in SaintOmer, as part of Exercise Spirit of Saint-Omer, to commemorate the ultimate sacrifice made by those who came before them.
Saint-Omer is of significant importance to the Royal Air Force as it is known as the “spiritual birthplace” of the service, having served as the main headquarters and airfield for the Royal Flying Corps during World War I.
We will remember them.
Images and caption by AS2 McKee.
alongside their comrades in other forces.
We will remember them.
and
Images
Caption by AS2 McKee
Cosford Remembers
Sunday 09 November saw RAF Cosford personnel proudly join communities across the region in Remembrance parades, standing shoulder to shoulder to honour the service and sacrifice of all who have given their lives in conflict.
At the Albrighton Remembrance parade, our Station Commander and Station Warrant Officer were in attendance alongside colleagues, paying tribute with local residents and veterans.
Cosford Remembers
On Tuesday 11 November, personnel across station paused from their duties to commemorate our fallen. From Hangars to offices, the whole station joined together in reflection.
Station Commander, Wing Commander Wilson was joined by colleagues in laying wreaths at our ensign, while Chief Technician Buckley honoured the moment with the poignant sound of the last post.
We will remember them.
PADRE’S PIECE
Time for everything
As I approach July 2026, marking the completion of four years on my tour at RAF Cosford, I find myself reflecting on this incredible journey.
During my time here, I have had the privilege of serving under three Station Commanders and three Senior Chaplains. Moving on is always a moment to take stock, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside such dedicated colleagues who have profoundly shaped and enriched my experience of life and service within the Royal Air Force.
I have witnessed troops come and go, completing their Phase 2 training, and have celebrated
with them at their graduations. These experiences have not only been a source of inspiration but have also played a significant role in my own personal and professional development. For that, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone at RAF Cosford.
The people I have worked with have made me feel welcome and truly part of this community. Saying goodbye is bittersweet, but I am also excited about the new challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. However, I will always cherish the people I have met here and the moments I have witnessed lives transformed, with a deep sense of humility and gratitude.
Some of the highlights of my time here include the meaningful conversations during the Alpha Course sessions, the chats and laughter at the clothing stores, the privilege of working alongside the welfare team, and the unity of purpose and
commitment among the COs of various schools, sections, and the SHQ leadership team. I am especially thankful to my colleagues and friends within the Chaplaincy, whose support and camaraderie have been invaluable.
As my time here draws to a close, I reflect on the many people who have come and gone, and I am reminded that there truly is a time for everything. Change is not something to fear—it is what brought me here. It is how we embrace change and our attitude towards it that defines us and enriches our lives. With that in mind, I step into this new chapter with readiness, though it is difficult to say goodbye to you all.
I wish you all the very best and will hold you in my thoughts and prayers.
Padre John Mbayo
3*Air and Space Commanders Commendation for WO Pringle
In a moment of celebration, Warrant Officer Graeme
‘Jud’ Pringle was presented with the certificate for his prestigious 3* Air and Space Commander’s Commendation at the 2025 Cyberspace Profession Conference.
The award, a testament to his extraordinary dedication and service, was handed to him by Deputy Chief of the Air Staff (DCAS), Air Marshal Paul Harrison Lloyd, in front of an audience of peers and professionals from across the cyberspace community.
WO Pringle, who retired in September this year after an astonishing 48 years of service in the Royal Air Force, has long been a respected figure within the military. His career, spanning nearly five decades, has been marked by unwavering commitment, exceptional leadership, and a profound
impact on the Air and Space domain. The accolade is a fitting tribute to a man whose career has been defined by excellence and dedication to the service of his country.
The Cyberspace Profession Conference, a key event in the RAF calendar, provided the perfect backdrop for this recognition. As the RAF continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges of the modern era, the contributions of individuals like WO Pringle serve as a reminder of the importance of experience, innovation, and dedication in shaping the future of defence.
WO Pringle’s legacy will
WO Graeme ‘Jud’ Pringle receives the 3* Air and Space Commander’s Commendation from DCAS, Air Marshal Paul Harrison Lloyd, at the 2025 Cyberspace Profession Conference
undoubtedly inspire the next generation of Cyberspace professionals. As the applause echoed through the conference hall, it was clear that WO Graeme
‘Jud’ Pringle’s name will remain synonymous with excellence, service, and an enduring commitment to the Royal Air Force.
City & Guilds Honours Cyberspace Team
City & Guilds presented Cyberspace App Ctr with a Plaque and certificate in ‘Recognition of Excellence in Apprenticeship Delivery’.
The award was received by FS Si Keyland and presented by Mr Kevin Wilkinson, City & Guilds Business Development Mgr (Public Sector).
A great team award which is reflective to how well the
team works together in achieving our core business through outstanding assessment practices to the exceptional support provided behind the scenes by our Administrative & Finance Team.
Royal Air Force’s Warrant Officer’s conference
We were honoured to host the Royal Air Force’s Warrant Officer’s conference at RAF Cosford recently.
The event was attended by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Smyth, Warrant Officer of the Royal Air Force, WO Murugesvaran Subramaniam, alongside Warrant Officers and members of the LEAD Talent programme from across the Royal Air Force.
RAF Cosford Leaders Join Historic Hindu Ceremony
On Friday 24 September, RAF Cosford Station Commander, Wing Commander Wilson, Officer Commanding Number 1 School of Technical Training, Wing Commander French and (Acting) Station Warrant Officer Hill, were honoured to take part in a local Hindu Shastra Ceremony.
This marked the first time female
commanders have participated in the service — a milestone that has been warmly welcomed within the community.
The success of this engagement has spread across multiple Mandirs, with RAF Cosford proudly leading the way as the only resident unit to participate in this important ceremony to date.
MPs Gain Insight into RAF Cosford’s Training Excellence
MPs and stakeholders visited RAF Cosford on Thursday 23rd October 2025 to gain further understanding of its enduring role within Defence. The visit highlighted RAF Cosford’s role as a centre of excellence in technical and physical training, while amplifying its strategic relevance.
Visiting Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme members witnessed the lived experience of personnel. Visits to the School
of Physical Training, No1 Radio School, No1 School of Technical Training and the Defence School of Photography demonstrated the station’s contribution to a skilled and future-ready workforce. RAF Cosford is not simply a training establishment; it is a career-long hub of excellence for defence personnel. Throughout their service, individuals return to RAF Cosford to upskill, specialise and mentor the next generation.
Up for a Challenge with RAF Shawbury Gliding Club (RSGC)
Are you up for a challenge?
For a £30 membership fee you can experience the cheapest way to get real hands on flying with RAF Shawbury Gliding Club. Our RAF Central Fund sponsored Mechanics Endowment Fund (MEF) Gliding Bursary Programme includes nine training flights to 2,000ft, an aerobatics flight to 4,000ft that allows students to experience the g-forces on the body and airframe, and 60 minutes of flying training in a motor glider. Over 100 students in Phase 1 and 2 training at RAF Cosford and RSAF Shawbury have completed the programme so far. Further funding is then available via the RAFGSA Go Solo Scholarship scheme to students who wish to continue to solo pilot standard, as some RAF Cosford
students have already done so this year.
We also welcome members from the whole service community and their families.
Further details and an application form are on the RSGC website at https://www.rafshawburygc. co.uk/mef-bursary and the club also welcome the whole service community with membership open to Service Personnel and their families, MOD Civilians and Defence partners. Contact Flt Lt Ben Braddick Benjamin. Braddick337@mod.gov.uk or Ian Gallacher ian.gallacher375@ mod.gov.uk both of whom will be delighted to answer your questions. Also available on ModNET or Teams.
Perfect approach to landing by AR Hoss Shihab who is flying with instructor and RAF Veteran Geoff Matthews
Running through their launch point pre-flight checks. Instructor Laura Martin with AR Rebecca Hall.
The MEF gliding bursary programme includes 60 minutes of flying training in a motor glider. Here AR Charlotte McAnsh is with instructor Reverend Captain Toby Jones
Our basic gliding sim is a super introduction to the way the aircraft responds to control inputs. AR Tyler Elwell is seen here with instructor AR Bradley Lefley Kemp.
AR Lucas Jones makes his first flight at RAF Shawbury GC with instructor and RAFAC Wg Cdr Colin Haynes
Cosford Motorcycle Club Summer Season
With Autumn turning to Winter, many of us have put our bikes into hibernation, awaiting an elusive sunny day to grab our helmets and gloves. Although a few faithful still ride through the colder weather, this season invariably sees a lull in club activity. It’s good to keep motivated then by remembering warmer times and reflect on what was a fantastic summer of motorcycling!
Club social ride outs
Keen to instigate a regular series of local social ride-outs and promote wellbeing through social activity, Dave Baker and I capitalised on positive exposure at the Fit4Life day with an Easter Sunday ride into Wales to showcase the concept. These low-key, shorter rides would be open to all rider experience levels and motorcycle capacities, aiming to take in local routes that challenged riders enough to develop road skills whilst promoting road safety in a fun way.
Interest soon began to build and Dave took the lead, running a series of Wednesday evening rides throughout the summer, visiting local biker haunts such as Becky’s Bike Night and
taking a diverse selection of club members on a series of interesting rides heading as far as the Shropshire Hills and Welsh border. Highlights included trips to Ellerdine Heath, Fradley, Lake Vymwy and Tidley Bike Night with regulars Michael McGrath and Roy Parnell driving these events forward.
Peaky Riders Force Development Staff Ride
Broadening our scope beyond local rides, we were keen to get another unit level Force Development Staff Ride in. Derbyshire had proved to be our “Everest” in the past, with an ambitious late season 2024 ride frustratingly aborted mid-ride due to poor weather. Not to be defeated though, we decided this particular mountain needed conquering and so our destination would be the Snake Pass in the High Peak, a region rife with RAF History, challenging roads and amazing views!
by Sgt Alex Woods
Open to the whole Force, the only limit placed on attendance was that on this occasion, given the demanding route and distances covered, the ride would only be open to riders with full licences. A few organisational struggles meant we hadn’t had long to publicise this event, but we still managed to gather 5 riders from across Station to take part. Despite some misgivings about the weather for such a late season ride, on the day we were greeted with clear skies, sun and warm conditions! Winner!
Leaving at 08:30 with full tanks and high spirits, our first stint in the saddle was a long but enjoyable one. Hacking down the miles, our route took us through the Staffordshire countryside, avoiding busy traffic hotspots before heading over the Leek Moorland road. This proved to be an early highlight and whilst the crisp morning air was chilly, the incredible views more than made up for it! This region can be
desolate, and it felt like we were the only living souls for miles as we threaded our way across a spaghetti strip of tarmac draped over the peaks. We stopped for a rest and some breakfast at Flash Bar stores, an ancient and remote café high up in the peak district. Here we reflected on our progress, sharing tips on road positioning and general safe riding on these fast-rural roads.
Easter Sunday Rideout
Peaky Riders Snake Pass Summit
Summer rideouts
Lake Vymwy
Peaky Riders on our way
Peaky Riders Route
Stopping for fuel in Buxton, we passed by the site of former RAF Harpur Hill, the birthplace of the RAF Mountain Rescue Service before heading to Glossop and then turning onto the Snake Pass. This road has gained almost legendary status, featuring on many of our bucket-list rides and it certainly did not disappoint, with incredible views, winding snake-backed turns and undulating topography. It was a challenging road but rewarding and educational too. This section of the route was over far too fast though and before long we had reached the summit, our stopping point to complete our Force Development stands. Formerly known as the “Dark Peak”, the area surrounding the summit is a literal graveyard, being the site of over 100 air-crash sites. A popular training ground from the RAF’s early days right up until the 1970’s, the mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather in the region claimed the lives of numerous pilots and crews, young and experienced alike, in the days before technological innovations such as radar altimeters became standard equipment.
As a group we discussed how Air Power strategy had evolved and what measures had been implemented to improve air safety for flight training. We looked at the history of the Mountain Rescue service, the
need for it to be established and how it evolved from its earliest days in the Derbyshire region to the prestigious and storied national organisation it is today. Focusing on 4 crashsites, all of which had resulted in the complete loss of their crews, each attendee delivered a short pre-prepared talk. Shane Ridley told us about RAF Halifax RT922. Greg Tolson, the Bleaklow Bomber, USAF B29 “Overexposed”. Tim Dillon, RAF Hampden X3154 and Dave B; RAF Vampire XE866. Surrounded by such a barren, empty landscape and hearing the sad stories of these aircraft and the men that died here, our moods were sombre as we got back on the bikes and began our descent into the Derwent Valley.
Our route took us over the Ladybower Reservoir, itself a site of RAF Historical interest, having been used by 617Sqn to train dropping bouncing bombs
for Operation Chastise. As we threaded our way along the banks of this enormous body of water, towards its beautiful old dam, our combined bike exhausts almost emulated the chorus of 4 mighty merlin engines and we could just picture the image of a Lancaster bomber flying low over the glass-like surface, its young crew working tirelessly behind the controls.
Passing through the Hope Valley, known for its beauty and character, we made a quick stop in Bakewell to sample a traditional Bakewell Tart (well, it would have been rude not to!) before pushing on for our lunch stop, popular biker haunt, Matlock Bath. After a good break and suitably refreshed with chips and coffee, we pushed on for our last big stint in the saddle to our final point of interest, Cannock Chases War Cemetery. Whilst not strictly speaking part of our
FD discussion for the day, the sight of hundreds of war graves was a sobering one and a stark reminder of the very real human cost of the numerous crash sites that we had passed by along our route.
RTTW 2025
Storm Amy tried her best to dampen the enthusiasm for what has become a staple late-season ride for club members; Ride To The Wall. Had this been any other event, the prospect of cold rain and high wind may have been enough to convince us to leave the bikes tucked away in the garage. The meaning behind this ride is very special though, and Amy had clearly underestimated our determination, because in the end 7 of us still made the pilgrimage to the National Memorial Arboretum to pay our respects to the fallen, along with 5000+ other Serving and veteran bikers.
The parade ride in was certainly a windy one but the marshals did a sterling job closing junctions and controlling traffic at roundabouts, helping us to feel safe. Riding in such an immense group is an experience like no other and seeing members of the public braving the conditions to line bridges and pavements, waving and clapping as we passed, made our efforts worthwhile.
We gathered together at the RAF garden where two new memorials had been erected, one in honour of the RAF’s Armourers and the other to represent all LGBTQ+ Forces pers’. A heartfelt service and emotional musical performance followed at the wall itself but alas, weather conditions prevented a BBMF flypast from taking place. After the ceremony, we parted ways to climb the steps and honour the fallen in our own way, before returning to the bikes to head back to our families and the kept-burning fires of home.
Peaky Riders Small crew ready for the off
RTTW New Armourers Memorial Alex, Fitzy, Colin
RTTW endless field of bikes
National Fitness Day
National Fitness Day in the RAF is an important opportunity to highlight the role of physical fitness in maintaining operational effectiveness, resilience, and wellbeing.
For RAF personnel, fitness is not just about health, but also about readiness to meet the physical and mental demands of military tasks.
The day promotes teamwork, encourages healthy lifestyle habits, and reinforces the RAF’s commitment to supporting the welfare of its people. For Phase 2 recruits in particular, it provides a valuable chance to build strong foundations early in their careers, develop good habits, and see the wider importance of fitness beyond training. Participating as a cohort also helps to strengthen camaraderie and morale, supporting their transition from trainees into effective members of the RAF.
RAF Cosford Triumphs Over RAF Cranwell in RAF Cup Opener
On 19 November, RAF Cosford hosted RAF Cranwell in the opening round of the RAF Cup.
The Cosford squad featured a balanced mix of permanent staff and trainees, blending youth with experience to create a well-rounded team capable of competing against a Station that also drew from its trainee pool.
Cranwell arrived with only 11 players, and pre-match analysis suggested that Cosford’s depth and fresh legs from the bench could prove decisive if the game remained tight. From the outset, Cosford asserted dominance, patiently switching play to create overloads in wide areas. This tactical approach paid off early, with Nial Flint and AR Neylon finding the net to establish a 2–0 lead. Flint added a third just before the interval with a superb curling effort from outside the box, giving Cosford a commanding 3–0 advantage at half-time.
Despite warnings against complacency from FS Nolan, the second half began sluggishly for Cosford. Cranwell adapted well, closing down wide areas and pressing high. Their persistence was rewarded when they capitalised on a turnover to pull a goal back. The setback sparked Cosford back into life, and a pinpoint 60-yard diagonal from Cpl Allen released AR Chew, who squared for Neylon to claim his second and restore control.
With 30 minutes remaining, Cpl Whapshott entered the fray and immediately added creativity in midfield with his cultured left foot. Two late strikes from Whapshott sealed a comprehensive 6–1 victory, securing Cosford’s place in the next round.
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Custom balloon display pieces for all occasions
Hello everyone, I'm Joy and I'm the owner of the Joy of Balloons. We are a local company to Cosford, creating and delivering to Telford, Staffordshire and Wolverhampton areas. My passion is creating balloon pieces for your event. So whether its a number balloon stack for a birthday party, a huge display with a theme, wedding or an event. We cover anything. Please check out our social media for details and please WhatsApp me for a chat to discuss your needs. We do travel further afield but Cosford and surrounding areas is free delivery. We look forward to speaking to you soon. Joy
The Codsall Hive
For Busy Bees of all Ages
www.codsallhive.co.uk
The Codsall Hive is an exciting craft cafe and pottery studio located in the heart of Codsall village. Whether you’re looking to make a special gift for a loved one, create a ceramic baby keepsake or want to try something new; the Codsall Hive is the perfect place for all the family and makes for a unique day out.
7 days-a-week we offer pottery painting, preschool crafts, classes as well as workshops for both adults and children. We take pride in creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for all who come to our studio and serve up great coffee and snacks to keep hunger at bay. Come and experience the joy of creativity with us!
E: codsallhive@gmail.com
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17a Church Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton WV8 1EA
Christmas at the Codsall Hive is magical, creative and the one place where adults can recapture that child-like delight excitement of the upcoming season.
Make unique festive baby pottery to capture those tiny prints on decorations or keepsake plates for Santa. Attend a Baby or Toddler Elves messy play session to introduce little ones to all the fun of the season.
For older kids book onto our ‘Breakfast with Santa’ to enjoy seasonal pottery painting, festive crafts and a personal visit from Santa. Or visit Christmas Eve morning for our Stickman Read and Craft session to start the day with a treat.
But we’ve kept the best fun for adults! This year we’re offering a glass ornaments workshop, family chippy tea & pottery night, Bubbles & Baubles and Pots & Prosecco evenings, plus Christmas Wreath Making and a Watercolour Christmas scene for beginner’s workshop.
Craft your own Christmas with us or just pop in any day for some mindful pottery painting. We’re open 7 days a week, booking is recommended via our website www.codsallhive.co.uk
