BNTVA Journal Spring 2011

IN REMEMBRANCE OF THOSE WHO DID NOT MAKE IT THIS FAR AND IN SUPPORT OF THOSE WHO HAVE

The Journal of the BNTVA Registered Charity number 1131134

Spring 2011

CAMPAIGN

Leicester

Liverpool

London

Billingham

PaisleyBillingham

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Only three weeks left to book your rooms atThe Norbreck Castle Hotel Queens Promenade Blackpool FY2 9AA

For the

2011 BNTVA AGM and ConferenceFriday 13th May to Sunday 15th May 2011

This is your last chance to book. Our reserved rooms will not be available after the end

of March.

Anyone trying to book after this date will not be guaranteed the availability of a room.

A booking form is included with this edition of the magazine, bookings can only be made using this form.

Those of you who have booked please remember that the balance of your payment is due by the 25th March 2011.

The Gala Dinner on Saturday 14th May at 19.00 hrs

For those members and supporters who will not be staying in the hotel, the cost of the Gala Dinner is £19.50 per person. The booking form should also

be used for attendance at the Gala Dinner only. Payment due with form

DATE FOR YOUR DIARYBNTVA AGM & Conference

Saturday 14th May 2011The Norbreck Castle Hotel

Queens PromenadeBlackpool

Doors open at 13.00 hrs meeting starts at 13.30 hrs.

During my time as Secretary I have not written a piece for ‘Campaign’. I am standing down as National Secretary at the Conference and AGM in May. So I thought I would write something this time.

We have reached our goal of becoming a Registered Charity; we have taken part in the study into the Health and well being of Nuclear Veterans.

What does the future hold for us?

In September we are holding the first National Atomic Veterans Awareness day at the National Memorial Arboretum Alrewas Staffordshire. The day will include the rededication of the BNTVA memorial which has had to have some rectification work carried out. The event is to be by invitation only due to the restricted accommodation available. The trustees have adopted two new logos for the day; each logo includes the Forget-Me-Not flower.

Another project which is coming to fruition is the training of support workers for the BNTVA. We still have a number of vacancies to complete the

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group. Anyone who is still thinking of volunteering to become a BNTVA support worker, please contact Nigel Heaps who will be able to give you full details.

This is the time of year when we normally ask for nominations for posts within the BNTVA. Following decisions at the AGM last year when fixed term appointments were agreed, nominations are not required for any posts this year. Also last year we decided that designate positions for each officer and management roll should be created, we need names to be put forward for any future vacancies in the management team. In particular we need someone with a flair for selling to become the shop manager when Trevor stands down in 2012. We need younger candidates to fill future positions to take the charity forward to future success.

This is an appeal for you all to support the Conference and AGM in Blackpool.

Please book your room to stay for the weekend. If you cannot stay for the whole weekend please come to the Gala Dinner in the evening after the AGM meeting in the afternoon. The trustees have arranged the

whole Conference and AGM in one place to stop the need of travel between different locations. Easy parking, indoor swimming pool, cheap beer, all this adds to the attraction of staying in a high

Notes from the Secretary

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class hotel. With a tram stop outside the hotel, any of the wives and partners who do not wish to come to the AGM in the afternoon, then Blackpool or Lytham is only a short tram ride away. Resolutions for discussion at Conference/AGM must be submitted in writing to the Secretary 21days before the AGM. Each resolution must be proposed and seconded by a paid up member of the Association. The proposer must be in the meeting and be willing to present the resolution to the meeting.

Lastly I would like to thank all of you who have supported me in the past with the magazine and my work as secretary and for your friendship. Please can I ask for your support for Tracey as she takes on the job of National Secretary.

JRL

A Service to Mark the 40th Anniversary of the Implementation of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act

30 March 2011 at 11:00 am

A Service to Mark the 40th Anniversary of the Implementation of the Chronically Sick

and Disabled Persons Act (1970) will be held at Westminster Abbey on Wednesday

30 March 2011 at 11am.

The Act was brought in through a Private Member’s Bill by Lord Morris of Manchester

(then Alf Morris MP for Wythenshawe) on the 5th

December 1969 and was endorsed by the House

of Commons and became an Act of Parliament in

1970. The Act had a major impact on the lives of

disabled people, ex service personnel and provided a

springboard for much of the legislation in force today.

The BNTVA have been allocated 10 tickets which are available on a first come first served basis. Please send a SAE to Jeff Liddiatt 13 Wetlands Lane Portishead Bristol BS20 6RA

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The Chaplain writes:

What a marvellous time we all hadin Blackpool!

It was the first time I had beenthere without a howling wind.

When I was Rector of Liverpool,we went to a conference in a hotelon the northern end of the seafront,and it wasn’t until we got therethat we discovered it was aTemperance establishment! Theheating was not working either (itwas February) so it rather colouredmy view of the resort. However,thanks to the BNTVA, all myprejudices have melted away.

Speaking of which, I told somepeople in Chichester where I hadbeen, and they were amazed tohear the story of the Nuclear Testsand the long campaign of theVeterans to obtain fair recognitionfor the service that they gave.

It occurs to me that the story is notwell enough known, and that weshould lose no opportunity to tell anew generation (not that thepeople I spoke to were young)about this significant episode,though shameful in its aftermath,in the life of our country.

It is always good to meet or hearfrom members, and I am sureeverybody will have drawn freshheart from the united spirit of theBlackpool Conference in 2010 andthe new directions in which theAssociation is moving through theinitiative of its new Chairman andthe Trustees.

My hopes and prayers are with youall as we await the outcome of thecurrent Court proceedings.

Nicholas FraylingDean of Chichester

The Chaplain writes:

The date 21st February is a special one in the history of Chichester Cathedral. It was on that day, in 1861, that the spire of the Cathedral collapsed, in spite of many months of effort to save it. There are clear early photographs of the heap of rubble inside the building. Mercifully, nobody was killed or even injured – the workmen had escaped just in time. The 14th century masonry of the tower was not strong enough to take the weight indefinitely (though it did so for 500 years!).

On the anniversary day, I was invited to dedicate a small museum and learning centre in a former chapel. Why? Because it was built entirely out of stone from the collapsed spire, as were some other local buildings, when people were fortunate enough to obtain some stones from the huge pile of debris. It is called The Clock House and provides an opportunity for children to learn how things work – clocks, telephones, and all manner of machines of many sizes - by dismantling them and putting them together again when they have revealed their mysteries. I was able to speak of good coming out of disaster: a new and safe spire on the Cathedral; a sturdy chapel getting a new lease of life, and an imaginative new project to excite young people - none of which would have occurred without the collapse.

Good coming out of evil, triumph out of tragedy, are at the heart of our Christian faith, as we shall be remembering as we approach Easter, on a wholly different level than a cathedral spire falling to the ground, of course; but that has provided me with an opportunity to reflect on the greater mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection, and new beginnings in unpromising circumstances.

That was to be my Easter message – indeed it is; but on the very night of 21st February came the news of the earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand, with the terrible images of destruction, including the spire of Christchurch Cathedral, looking uncannily like our 19th century photos. There are no words at a time like this, except words of prayer. As I have often said to members of our Association when they have faced discouragement, sickness and disappointment, ‘God is our hope and strength, a very present help in trouble.’ That is a message for every day…

I wish you and your families a holy and happy Easter.

Nicholas FraylingChichester Cathedral22nd February 2011

Pic to use Chichester Portsmouth 001.jpg The Chaplain’s message A WORD OR TWO OF INSPIRATION As I write this, people all over the world are rejoicing at the rescue of the miners in Chile – a story which has gripped the hearts of people in every land. It has been noteworthy for many reasons, but for me, one feature has stood out in all the coverage of the events as they unfolded: the faith of the people – the families, the rescuers, the politicians and the trapped men themselves. All concerned prayed as if everything depended on God and acted as if everything depended on them. That is a very good parable of the Christian life as it should be lived, as people recognize their dependence on God, and seek to cooperate with Him in the ordering of their daily lives, however challenging. Which brings me to my second ‘word’. On 3rd October, the anniversary of the first sailing from Portsmouth to inaugurate the British atomic tests, in 1952, a group of veterans from that city came, with their wives, to Chichester for the Cathedral Eucharist. It was a joy to welcome them. One elderly lady said to the veterans, ‘It’s because of lads like you that people like me are here and safe and free: thank you from the bottom of my heart for your service.’ It would be good to think that such gratitude is received by today’s servicemen and women, especially those whose service puts their lives or their health at risk. May I assure you all of my continuing prayers for you and your families, and send my warmest greetings for Christmas and the New Year, whatever it may hold.

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Christmas Island Memories Reading the last issue of Campaign brought many recollections of my time on Christmas Island.

Being in the advance party we arrived on the beach by landing craft from the tramp steamer, SS Charlton Star, at the Port Camp and were transported to the Main Camp by lorry where we were assigned our tents.

As an RAF telegraphist I was put in a tent with fellow telegraphists, we were one corporal and five Senior Aircraftmen, all regular ex-boy entrants.

The mention of the cooks and food reminded me of our eating facilities. Army Royal Catering Corp chaps cooked on large black diesel burners in the open. Our meals were dished up on compartmented metal trays where we made a dash for the mess tent, either to avoid the flies or to get out of the wet in the rainy season. We were also supplied with salt tablets to take with our meals.If we had a pudding with custard, that was eaten first, as in no time the custard was covered in large flies drowning and stuck in the glutinous liquid.

Talking of flies, as a shift worker, when sleeping off night duty in our tent with the sides rolled up, occasionally a crop spraying aircraft (which was shipped out in a

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box on a Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessel), would fly over the main camp spraying DDT, which would fill our tent and we’d wake up choking and spluttering. Imagine that being allowed now! On a few occasions the U.S. Air Force Pacific Band came out to entertain us. The enlisted men found they could not eat our food so NCO’s and airmen were assigned to the Officers Mess.Apparently this proved unsatisfactory too as on their second and subsequent visits they brought their own food and cooks. On arrival on the island when first going on duty we worked inside the back of a lorry about two miles outside camp. Using Morse we communicated with the Americans at Hickam Field in Honolulu, Civilian Cable & Wireless operators in Fiji and also with the air signallers on the Hastings aircraft which came in on a shuttle service bringing supplies from Hawaii. We had a tented office outside the wireless truck and on opening it up in the morning for the early shift we had to drive out about a dozen or more giant land crabs with a broom which had got in during the night. Later during my service on the island the Joint Operations Centre was built where we kept a twenty-four hour watch working with RAF and Naval personnel.

On the first Malden Island drop, I was in contact by Morse, with the air signaller on the Valiant aircraft, and on receiving the message that the bomb had gone, I rushed my hand-written copy into the radio teleprinter room where it was sent direct to London by high speed radio teleprinter signal. This was transmitted via a huge Swab 8 transmitter. I recollect that on one occasion our signals warrant officer, who was a Ham Radio enthusiast, came in with a flask of gin during the evening, linked his mike up to the Swab 8 and began to call up fellow enthusiasts. This brought in complaints from far and wide that he was drowning out military and civil frequencies in the area of the Pacific Ocean around the island and further afield.

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Regarding the piece on bone fish, those of us who were keen anglers would use handlines bought from the NAAFI (or the shop, run by two members of the Womens Voluntary Service) and go down to the beach at high tide. Shoals of bone fish would come in to the pools where there was a break in the reef, and baiting up our hooks with the tails of the hundreds of land hermit crabs that lived under the bushes at the top of the beach, we’d catch these beautiful fish. They are called bone fish as their eyes were covered with a strong membrane like the cover of a small aircraft cockpit, which protects their eyes from the sharp corral. Once we caught a huge grouper which we attempted to cook on the beach after getting some dripping from the cooks. I can remember it was not very successful as it was only half-cooked, it being so big! A friend of mine, who I meet every Tuesday for a walk and meal in a local pub, was also on Christmas Island as a civilian radar technician employed by Marconi’s. He reminded me of the strong rum ration we were given in our tea when we were subjected to weeks of heavy rain during the wet season. Our camp beds had to be put on wooden platforms as the rain used to run through our tents. The platforms also kept the land crabs from us when they managed to sneak into the tent at night. At the end of my time on the island I was given the option of sailing back to the U.K. on the aircraft carrier, HMS Warrior, making visits to countries around South America or travelling back by air across the USA. As the time on the ship would be deducted from my accrued leave and as I’d been away from home for quite some time I chose the quick return option. After a long leave I was given a choice of various RAF stations, so I plumped for RAF Uxbridge, a short scooter ride from my home in central London.

Roger Fleming

Pictures sent in by Vic Mitchell Christmas Island as we remember it.

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Bob’s page

This will be my last Bob’s page as I am standing down as Membership Secretary at the coming Conference and AGM in Blackpool.

We are often told that the only things in life that are constant are death and taxes. I would add a third and that is change. Changes happen all the time and many people do not like facing it but there is no alternative. Before you all get your backs up and start shouting that Bob is talking rubbish, let me point out a few pertinent facts which have happened in our lifetime.

The majority of veterans were born between 1928 and 1948 this allows the youngest to have been 18 years old at the 1966 clean up at Maralinga in Australia. We have lived through the Second World War, Korean War, numerous so called police actions and terrorist outrages. We experienced rationing, depravation, poor housing, poor education, and were taught to obey without question. This was drummed into Conscripts and also us regulars who signed on to serve in HM Forces. Many regulars like me felt that we were treated as the lowest of the low. Train travel below the rank of sergeant was THIRD CLASS.

Aircraft engines have gone from radial piston engines to Olympus 593 which powered the supersonic Concorde, steam has been replaced on the main line by electric and diesel traction (I can travel to London in 4 hours from Glasgow, but do not try to travel to Bristol or Derby in a hurry —you cannot). Cars are found in most households instead of being the reserve of the doctor, minister or other professional. Television is everywhere, as are many other electronic appliances; I say this as I sit at my PC writing this piece, so change happens..The Association has changed beyond recognition. We are now a Registered Charity and fiscally viable. We have moved away from the confrontational times of the past to a democratic organisation, in which all members can be involved.

In the latter part of 2010 the questionnaire for the health study/audit were sent out to all paid up members on our mailing list and to others who had contacted the research company directly. The start of this study encouraged one veteran who was not involved, to circulate aggressive and inaccurate emails to a large circulation. Only the quick action of Nigel, Jeff and Tracey stopped any permanent damage to the study, or persons targeted in the emails. We, as

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National Chairman

Nigel Heaps (Skype nigel.heaps)email: chairman @bntva.com

National Vice Chairman

Derek Heapsemail [email protected]

National Secretary

Jeff Liddiattemail: [email protected]

National Treasurer

Carol Longden

National MembershipSecretary

Bob Smith,Membership fees , Data Controlleremail: [email protected]

Chaplain

The Very Revd Nicholas Frayling BA,LLD

Dean of Chichesteremail [email protected]

BNTVA New Contact DetailsRegistered Charity Number 1131134

24 Hr Telephone service 0208 144 3080BNTVA

BM 5657LONDON

WC1N 3XXThis is the only correspondence address and telephone number

for the Association

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an Association have long been critical of the previous NRPB studies, which only looked at DEATH and not at the living.

The MOD has paid for a totally independent audit/study into the health needs of nuclear veterans, which as I write is in its closing stages, with focus groups meeting around the country. Some 866 questionnaires were sent out and around 626 returned completed, which means about 240 of those who received the questionnaire did not bother to return it. After all those years of complaining about the NRPB reports we still have some members who leave it to someone else.

Will changes continue? Yes, because we must evolve.

Jeff and Tracey spent time last year completing the BNTVA contribution to the Royal British Legion Schools and Colleges education pack, which is sent out to educational establishments, and is available free of charge to all working with youth in the UK. This is the first time that the BNTVA has been invited to contribute. Preparations are underway for the 2011 pack, which will be published later in the year. With this resource being available to all teachers and tutors, our story is being told to a new generation of children and young people. This will make sure that our experiences whilst serving in HM Forces either as a national serviceman or as a regular is not forgotten.

New ideas and volunteers are always welcome; please contact the Secretary or Chairman.

N.B. A few copies of the RBL Education Pack are available from the Secretary

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LEGASEE – WAR VETERANS ONLINE ARCHIVEThe Legasee Film Company launched their new web site

on Friday 11th February 2011.

Legasee is one of the first consolidated attempts to document the views of individuals who have served their country. While remembrance ceremonies and battle anniversaries are regularly reported on TV, this coverage rarely focuses on veterans’ personal experiences for more than a few seconds and is of restricted value as an educational tool or record of personal achievement. Legasee’s online video archive aims to cover military life in much more depth focusing on individuals stories and opinions. The films are available to view on www.legasee.org.uk and will also be made available to schools, libraries, and museums. Legasee started searching for veterans in mid December 2010 and the first interviews were filmed in mid January 2011. From these first interviews,

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the following veterans were added to the web site. Colin Parker - Coldstream Guards - was left for dead on a battlefield in Aden. Rob Stirling - Para, Hussars, SAS, Rhodesian Army and then South African Army - talks about his many experiences. Sidney Mitchell - Royal Corps of Signals - at 92 still has a very vivid memory of all the action he saw during WWII. Ted “Smokey” Verbiest - Fleet Air Arm - gives a graphic account of being attacked by German fighter planes during WWII. Brian Bird - RAF Spitfire Pilot - very interesting interview of how he learnt to fly then went straight into action in north Africa and Italy. Now that the Legasee web site has been launched, new interviews will be added every week. The following Veterans will be the next to appear online. Rex Shepherd – Royal Fusiliers – a veteran of the “Forgotten War” in Korea.Peter Noad MBE – The Queen’s Lancashire Regiment – left the Army as an RSM after a colourful career in Northern Ireland in the intelligence section.Bryan “Tab” Hunter – 1 Para – a humorous account of his time in the Paras in Cyprus.Lyle Thompson – RAF – an interesting account of his work with Chinooks, including call sign BN in the Falklands, now known as the luckiest aircraft in the RAF. Legasee is interested in hearing from BNTVA members that are interested in sharing their stories for the benefit of future generations. Any veterans interested in being interviewed should contact Dave Player at: [email protected] or telephone 0782 462 8029.

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Recipes

From Montalba SE France

Dear Mrs Tracey Morris

Having just received my winter’ Campaign’, and read your suggestion that members and, bods like us to send in menus for publication. I did send some to Jeff Liddiatt which were printed in the magazine. I did point out at that time that I had almost finished my paperback on such ideas. It is entitled “Ken 66 and all that” nothing to do with that battle in 1066. I started doing menus and recipes when I was 66 years old hence the name. Typically at our age we are not as active as we were. It is only recently that I stopped building an extension to my shack, Thank God!!

I won’t repeat the items I sent to Jeff last time.

I go into Spain to buy my meat, which is lower in price than in France and butchered by themselves, not like the packs in supermarkets. I do not buy as much meat as I did in the past, as I have intestinal problems. I make a large amount of soup, vegetables and meat mixed gives me the right combination of protein etc, the soup can be left whole or liquidized as required, this soup can be frozen in portions.

I also make fish soup from fish purchased in the local fish market. When this is combined with suitable vegetables it makes a change from meat based soups.

Take any fish, place in a pan, cover with water and boil for a few minutes, remove from heat and drain off the liquid. Refill the pan covering the fish, bring to the boil. Add your own selection of vegetables continue to cook until the vegetables are cooked. Drain the liquid into a container, remove the veg. Take the fish and place on a working surface; remove the bones and any unwanted parts. Replace the fish, liquid, and veg in the pan, season to taste, thicken if required. Take a hand held liquidizer and blitz the contents of the pan until smooth. This can also be frozen in portion size containers.

Ken GrayMontalbaSouth East France.

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THE DAMPER Years ago, in the Australian outback, drovers would cook “dampers” each time they had set up camp. To cook it they would wrap the” damper” around a stick or put it in a cast iron pot and bury it in the dampened* coals of a hot camp fire.As the stockmen only carried the bare necessities, the ingredients were basic: Flour, salt, baking soda (sometimes) and water.You guessed it; “the damper” is the cattleman’s bread. So let’s go to the kitchenand cook this simplest of un-yeasted bread. This is a version for home cooking. It is all measured in cups as the drovers only carried a kind of tin mug. Ingredients : 2 cups self-raising flour ; 1/2 teaspoon salt ; 1 cup milk ; 1 teaspoon sugar ; 2 teaspoons butter. Method: Preheat oven gas mark 6/210°c Mix flour, salt, and sugar together Cut in butter until fine crumbs form Add milk slowly and mix to form soft dough Knead lightly on floured board until smooth Shape into a round loaf and brush with milk Cut a cross on top of dough Place in a greased round cake tin Bake in oven for 30 to 40mnTo test if it is done, tap on the loaf. It should sound hollow. Best served warm once you can break the damperwith your fingers the drover’s way. Dunk it in your favourite gravy,stew, soup or spread some homemade jam on it for tea. Bon appétit! *To dampen a fire you throw a little water on it to lower the temperature. Hence the name of this loaf “Damper”

Christine James

Damper being prepared over hot coals

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National Chairman




National Secretary


National Treasurer

Carol Longden



Chaplain





BM 5657LONDON


for the Association

National Chairman


National Secretary

National Treasurer

National Membership Secretary

Chaplain




Carol Longden


The Very Revd Nicholas Frayling BA, LLD


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National Chairman




National Secretary


National Treasurer

Carol Longden



Chaplain





BM 5657LONDON


for the Association

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National Chairman




National Secretary


National Treasurer

Carol Longden



Chaplain





BM 5657LONDON


for the Association

19

National Chairman




National Secretary


National Treasurer

Carol Longden



Chaplain





BM 5657LONDON


for the Association

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National Chairman




National Secretary


National Treasurer

Carol Longden



Chaplain





BM 5657LONDON


for the Association

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National Chairman




National Secretary


National Treasurer

Carol Longden



Chaplain





BM 5657LONDON


for the Association

BNTVA New CoNTACT DeTAiLSRegistered Charity Number 1131134

24 Hour Ring Back Service 0208 144 3080BNTVA

BM 5657LoNDoN

wC1N 3XXThis is the only correspondence address and telephone number

for the Association

1720

Trustee

Mrs Tracey Morrisemail [email protected]

Trustee

Ian Greenhalgh LLBemail [email protected]

Shop Manager & Trustee

Trevor Butler

Archive Administrator &Trustee

Doug Hernemail [email protected]

London Events Organiser &Trustee

Don James

CAMPAIGN Editor and Web ManagerAs Secretary

National Standard BearerTerry Washington ‘Little Hey’8 Butley CloseTytheringtonMacclesfieldSK10 2HL

Widows’s ContactMavis Gardner30 Link RoadAnsteyLeicesterLE7 7BY

G2+ CommitteeSecretary Janet BirdMembers/AdvisorsTracey Morris Nigel Heaps Owen Stevens& Carol Longden

Media RepresentativeAlan Rimmer

CAMPAiGN editor and web ManagerAs Secretary

National Standard BearerTerry Washington

widows’s ContactMavis Gardner

G2+ CommitteeSecretary Janet Bird

Members/AdvisorsTracey Morris Nigel Heaps Owen StevensCarol Longden

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IN MEMORIAM

Brian Roberts

Peter Bullen writes to tell us all of the death in November last year of Brian Roberts aged 72.

Brian was a popular and loyal member of the BNTVA over many years. He will be remembered by many members from his attendances at the AGM.

Brian came from Rduddlan in North Wales. His family was supported by his many friends at his funeral held in Rhyl North Wales.

David Jenner

It is with sadness that we have learned of the death of David Jenner in November last year. David was the Web Manager for the BNTVA, he set up the web site with his brother in memory of their father, J C (Ian) Jenner ex Christmas island 1958.

“Behind the Scenes”

I began the narratives with Jeff Liddiatt’s biography and the work he carries out for the BNTVA. In the last edition of ‘Campaign’ Derek Heaps, our Vice Chairman also provided a wonderful insight to his life, and his involvement in our charity. As Trevor and Doris Butler celebrated their Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary last year, I asked Trevor to write a piece for ‘Campaign’. As many of you are aware Trevor has worked for many years as a BNTVA volunteer selling our merchandise, from enamel lapel badges, to fleeces. However, Trevor’s work does not stop there, as a Trustee, and a member of the Management Committee, Trevor helps to shape and implement BNTVA policy. As we all live in different parts of the country, Trevor travels all over Britain to attend our meetings. It is always a pleasure to see the support Doris gives him, and our charity, as she is always by his side. (Tracey Morris).

My Story: Trevor M Butler

The story began on 7th March, 1938, in Hull - a year later World War II started. My parents decided, as Hull was heavily bombed (this was never mentioned, only that a city in the north east was raided,) to move to Cottingham three miles to the North West. My earliest picture is of me with my mother then grandfather aged about two.

On reaching school age I started at the school in the village complete with gas mask. After failing the eleven plus, I managed to pass an exam and interview to attend the Hull Municipal Technical College for two years, this was a build-up to me becoming an apprentice bricklayer. I left school at the age of fifteen and because I had been to the building school was allowed to start my apprenticeship. My main pastimes at this time were a Youth club run by the Methodist Church, Army Cadet Force band combined with infantry training

My next major step was problematic as the firm went bankrupt and I found that my deferment for National Service would have been rescinded, unless

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8 months 2 years 17 years

Cadet force band Training scheme.

Myself Susan &Neil

Trafalgar Square 1957 Son Neil 2 years



Myself Susan &Neil




Myself Susan &Neil




Myself Susan &Neil


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I could find a firm to employ me, as I only had a few months of my apprenticeship to serve. It proved impossible to be employed, so, I had to report to the Recruiting Office and soon found myself in the Royal Engineers. First, to Malvern to No 1 Training Regiment, where I soon found out that the real Army had very little in the way of similarities to the Cadet force, although, I did find that I could pick up the basics easily.

Later I moved on to No 3 Training Regiment for thirteen weeks of Engineer training - moving on to Ripon for two way radio training, and then to 38 Engineer Regiment, 61 Squadron 1Troop, for immediate embarkation leave.

On returning to camp, we soon were transported by train to Southampton, to board the troopship Duneara Jan 58 to sail to Christmas Island. During the operation, our duties were at the Main camp, concreting bases for the new huts. Two H bombs later, we moved to B site for three A bombs, and then returned home by B.O.A.C in Dec 58, and home to use up my accrued leave. On returning to Ripon I found that the Regiment had been deployed to Otterburn, to construct a road on the Artillery ranges.

One Saturday afternoon, my pal Gordon Sandell, a Sheffield lad, came to me as I had a new motorcycle, and said we were going to Newcastle to go dancing. I had to point out that being under canvas again I only had jeans shirt and a thick jumper, so, I could not go. As he was a keen ballroom dancer and had won many competitions, he returned with a complete outfit: suit, shirt,

tie, overcoat, cravat, all borrowed from lads on weekend duties or punishment. It was at the dance held in the Oxford Galleries Newcastle that I met Doris, my wife. Being a smartly dressed young man in October 59, we married in September 1960, after being demobbed. Returning to the building trade, it was agreed that as I had been doing building duties in the Royal Engineers it would count as the missing six months and I was put on full pay. Doris and I looked to buy property in the area where she lived. But as we are seeing now this last winter, well, in Co Durham it started snowing in November and all building work stopped. Therefore, I moved back home to Cottingham since the weather was not so severe. Doris followed, after transferring from the Ministry of Pension to the Inland Revenue. We then managed to purchase a house in Hull.

1963 saw the birth of our daughter Susan and in 1965 came the birth of our first son Keith, who only lived one day as his kidneys had not developed (nobody, to this day, has said it could have been genetically caused by my exposure to excessive radiation due to my Army service). In 1965 I had to undergo cataract surgery to my right eye - as this had developed rapidly, and the ophthalmic surgeon could not understand how this had happened, as he had seen me when I was fourteen. Unfortunately, photographs, and especially coloured, were not taken then.

Our second son Neil was born 1966 with no obvious health problems. Neil was only a week old when I fell playing football

and fractured my right wrist. This accident caused me endless problems. So, Doris trained to be a teacher and after she had qualified I returned to evening classes to further my education, to have the paper qualifications to enable me to go into the training field.

I started with a scheme in our area called ‘Community Industries’, helping disadvantaged youths to find work. I moved on, in 1980, to be a Civilian Instructor in brickwork at Everthorpe Borstal. In 1984, Doris saw an article in our local paper of a group asking for Nuclear Test veterans to attend a meeting. Therefore, along with Derek I was to be one of the early members forming the Humberside Branch of the BNTVA.

In 1987, I made my last career move since the Borstal, after being a Young Offenders Prison, was due to become an adult Prison. I managed to secure a position with Hull City Council, as a housing officer - processing housing repair and refurbishment grants to the private sector. During this time I applied, and was granted, a City & Guilds Licentiate - this

entitles me to put L C G after my name and they allowed me to buy a City & Guilds tie.

My daughter and son are married, unfortunately my daughter is unable to have children, our son and his wife have a son and daughter. Doris and I are very proud of our two grandchildren. Our latest celebration mentioned in a previous issue was our Golden Wedding.



Myself Susan &Neil




Myself Susan &Neil




Myself Susan &Neil


22

The BNTVA, along with other charities representing military veterans, were invited as guests to attend an all-day seminar, 19th January 2011, to inform charities representing veterans of it’s services to support ex- service personnel. The trustees agreed that it would be a very useful opportunity to get to know what the National hospital had to offer; to enhance our knowledge, and to network with other charities to further our aims. The day itself lasted from 11:30am until 15:30 and after a warm welcome by Chairman Peter Franklyn – Jeff (accompanied by Annette his wheelchair pusher), and myself, sat through various presentations covering, chronic pain; neuro rehabilitation; complex regional pain syndrome and phantom limb pain. The question and answer session also covered the hospital’s Falls and Osteoporosis service – something close to my own heart as my husband was once a Falls and Osteoporosis specialist nurse (he could spot a worn walking stick ferrule a mile away!). Justin Cunningham gave a presentation on the aims of the NHS South West Ex Service and Veterans’ Forum which was very informative. The South West has a population of approximately 5 million, and has many service establishments, it was interesting to find out that the NHS South West Forum not only discusses and develops policies to ensure that it can deliver appropriate care in the South West, but also that nine Strategic Health Authorities are to use the South West Forum model. The forum also informs and provides feedback to both the Department of Health and the Ministry of Defence. It was discussed that with the emergence of a new NHS policy from the Coalition Government, charities are now being seen as an emerging third sector of healthcare policy. With the formation of forum meetings in the other nine SHAs it is hoped that BNTVA representation will be secured on each meeting. One thing that was evident from the day was how many ex-service personnel are executives in the NHS, which really seems to put services to ex-service personnel and their families, high on the agenda. The hospital was also keen to stress, despite being small, that it is a National Hospital that can be accessed by veterans nationwide, as long as they are referred by their GP.Needless to say, it was a very informative day, and the attendee list included many well known names such as, The Royal Marines Association, Combat Stress, RAFA, The Royal British Legion, Royal British Legion Poppy Factory, Service Personnel and Veterans Agency, SSAFA, St Dunstan’s, SAMA.

As a consequence of the day Jeff and I have both been invited to participate in the hospital’s larger forum to promote the services of the hospital – and Jeff has been invited to join a smaller forum to look at a framework for services available for ex-service personnel, which will hopefully also be rolled out across the country. Tracey Morris

Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, NHS Foundation Trust, Bath

23

Falls

According to Age UK: one in three over the age of 65 fall each year, equating to 3.4 million people. For falls in the over 65s it costs the NHS 4.6 million everyday, £1.6 Billion a year (http://www.ageuk.org.uk/latest-press/archive/falls-over-65s-cost-nhs/?paging=false). So we, The BNTVA wish through Campaign to help our more vulnerable members to prevent a fall from happening.

Fear: The fear of falling increases the fall risk.

Exercise: - particularly in strength and balance – can you rise out of a chair? Go for a walk? Do you have the balance to remain upright? Exercise can reduce falls by 60%.

Vision: Check that you regularly have your eyes checked, and appropriate glasses if you suffer with impaired vision. Clean your glasses at least once a day.

Footwear: Wear appropriate footwear – sloppy slippers maybe comfortable, but they can also lead to falls. Check that the soles of your footwear are appropriate.

Clothes: Ensure that clothes are not too loose fitting.

Falls







Falls







Falls







Falls







Falls







Diet: Have a nutritional assessment through your GP: If you are found to be at high risk of developing osteoporosis then ensure your diet has Calcium and Vitamin D – your GP may prescribe supplements.

Medication: A variety of medications can be associated with a risk of falls. Medication, such as antidepressants, sleeping tablets, and diuretics (water tablets), also medications for other conditions, such as, heart conditions and Parkinson’s disease. If you are concerned about falling and your medication you can ask a pharmacist or your GP for a medication review especially if you are taking more than four different tablets on a daily basis.

Mobility Aids: Ensure Mobility Aids are suitable for use – check that ferrules (rubbers) are not worn, particularly with walking frames and walking sticks. Check that your mobility aids are at the correct height for use.

Good Housekeeping: check the floor for clutter, and trip hazards such as trailing cables.

Floor: Check floor areas for wear and tear, and for uneven surfaces.

Lighting: Ensure that you have good natural light and appropriate light at night. Good lightening reduces the risk of falls.

Check your local Health Authority, or speak to your GP, to check if they have a falls service.





























Falls







25

If you have experienced a fall, or if you feel at high risk of a fall, it may be worthwhile discussing with your GP about the use of hip protectors, which can reduce injury.

If you live alone it maybe worthwhile in investing in a careline service – with a press of a button help can be on its way immediately, rather than lying alone struggling to get to a phone. Get in touch with your Local Authority for more details. Finally, for those that surf the net, check out the Age UK’s new website, which is packed full of information: http://www.ageuk.org.uk TM

If you have experienced a fall, or if you feel at high risk of a fall, it may be worthwhile discussing with your GP about the use of hip protectors, which can reduce injury.

If you live alone it maybe worthwhile in investing in a careline service – with a press of a button help can be on its way immediately, rather than lying alone struggling to get to a phone. Get in touch with your Local Authority for more details. Finally, for those that surf the net, check out the Age UK’s new website, which is packed full of information: http://www.ageuk.org.uk TM















26

Campaign magazine is published by the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association. Editor: Jeff Liddiatt, . Next issue copy Deadline 1st March 2010. BNTVA is not an anti-nuclear or an anti-war association. All opinions, views and quotations do not represent official BNTVA policy and are the sole responsibility of the writer. Photographs and images – © Copyright of owner acknowledged. Campaign cannot guarantee total accuracy for any reproduction of letters / articles / transcripts. BNTVA is a Registered Charity Reg. No 1131134 supporting past and present UK Nuclear Test Combined Service Veterans and their families.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY

BNTVA AGM & Conference

Saturday 14th May 2011

The Norbreck Castle HotelQueens Promenade

Blackpool

Doors open at 13.00 hrs meeting starts at 13.30 hrs.

27

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If a survey of the most read articles in Campaign were taken, those which seek to renew contact with long lost comrades would feature very highly, I suggest. I know I for one look eagerly through each page to see if I recognise a name - or a face if there's a pic. So far I've been disappointed. OK. the editor must get many similar written requests from veterans, I'm sure, but I'd dearly love to 'chew the fat' with the guys in this 1958 photo. It was taken outside Main Camp stores troop tent in which, I think I recall correctly, eight of us used to bunk down after slogging away all day unloading umpteen barrels of bitumen and crates of AWRE 'supplies', the latter's contents a mystery to us. Anno Domini plays tricks with us all - and after more than 50 years who can blame the odd memory lapse - but I'm sure that, from left to right, that's Alan Clack, Ray Bromwich(?), your bandy-legged correspondent, Tom Sands and Derek Brown.

Also under canvas with me in the stores team were Cpl. Gerry Woods - a Taff from Bridgend (?), Jimmy Mackie from Kirkcaldy, Yorkshireman Anthony Judge and electrical storekeeper Tony Thurman, some of us beholden to Sergeant Stray, bless him, and all of us under the command of Captain Rawlings (not a bad sort). We'd have one hell of a time together, were we to meet again. Ron Taylor (Cpl., 73 Christmas Island Squadron). 0-0-0-0-0-0-0- Does anyone remember SAC David Smith? Hello to whoever reads this. Unfortunately my dad (David Smith) is very ill with dementia. I know he was on Christmas Island for 2 of the 3 tests, but not sure what he did, as he rarely spoke about the experience. So I was hoping you could ask your members if anyone could remember him. Sadly all I have to go on is an old luggage label which says the following Name: SAC Smith Destination: XMAS ISLAND Service: DBH 148 Any information will be gratefully received. Thank you Paul Smith.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

If a survey of the most read articles in Campaign were taken, those which seek to renew contact with long lost comrades would feature very highly, I suggest. I know I for one look eagerly through each page to see if I recognise a name - or a face if there’s a pic. So far I’ve been disappointed.

OK. the editor must get many similar written requests from veterans, I’m sure, but I’d dearly love to ‘chew the fat’ with the guys in this 1958 photo. It was taken outside Main Camp stores troop tent in which, I think I recall correctly, eight of us used to bunk down after slogging away all day unloading umpteen barrels of bitumen and crates of AWRE ‘supplies’, the latter’s contents a mystery to us. Anno Domini plays tricks with us all - and after more than 50 years who can blame the odd memory lapse - but I’m sure that, from left to right, that’s Alan Clack, Ray Bromwich(?), your bandy-legged correspondent, Tom Sands and Derek Brown.

Also under canvas with me in the stores team were Cpl. Gerry Woods - a Taff from Bridgend (?), Jimmy Mackie from Kirkcaldy, Yorkshireman Anthony Judge and electrical storekeeper Tony Thurman, some of us beholden to Sergeant Stray, bless him, and all of us under the command of Captain Rawlings (not a bad sort).

We’d have one hell of a time together, were we to meet again. Ron Taylor (Cpl., 73 Christmas Island Squadron).

Keith Goosey

Can anyone help me find Keith Goosey? A family friend of the Osborne’s when we lived in Stockbridge in the 1950’s. Keith was in the RAF in Australia during the tests in the 50’s’. He was Cpl Goosey K RAF Support Unit RAAF Edinburgh Field BFPO 151.

My late mother began searching for Keith after we lost touch when the media published details of the effects suffered by servicemen caused serving in the test areas. I would have loved to have been able to give my mother some news before she died unfortunately this was not to be. I then found the BNTVA web site hence this appeal.

Brenda [email protected] the editor.

28

Letter from Portsmouth

Norman Aplin writes to tell us that the Portsmouth group continue to meet, although the Hampshire Ex Serviceman’s Club, which they have always met, has recently closed. The group will meet at the Froddington Arms Fratton Road Portsmouth on the last Wednesday of each month, except December.

The group tries to send representatives to the Conference AGM in Blackpool, The Weymouth Veterans Parade in July each year, and the Cenotaph Remembrance Parade in London. The group Standard Bearer is registered with Portsmouth City Council and is invited to attend parades, especially in November.

The group wish to mention the work done year after year by Don James, supported by his wife Christine organising the Remembrance events. The Thursday before Remembrance Sunday the Garden of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey is opened. Don works during the days before hand placing the crosses on the BNTVA plot. He always marshals the parade Remembrance Sunday, and with his helpers he also makes, arrangements for lunch both on occasions.

Editor: Norman asked about the position of Standard Bearers in the constitution. Standard Bearers are not mentioned separately in the constitution. The BNTVA has Public Liability, Third party and Employers Liability Insurance (volunteers who work for and on behalf of the BNTVA are treated as employees when on BNTVA duty) this insurance covers Standard Bearers and others whenever they are taking part in a parade or other public duty on behalf of the BNTVA

Don James

Garden of Remembrance Westminster Abbey

Weymouth Veterans Parade

29

Hi Jeff A request for the Magazine.Does any of the Stevedores from Port Camp early to mid 1959 remember loading a Meadows Generator addressed to the AWRE Atomic Weapons Research Establishment at Aldermaston on to any Ship returning to England. The M.o.D. have denied ever sending one back but I know that I crated it up and Stencilled the address on to it early in 59, it was recovered from “ A “ site and was one that the boffins had used during the A Bomb Tests and I had the unenviable job of cleaning it down with a compressed air line and then preserving it and crating it up ready to be shipped back to the UK. Any memories will be much appreciated.Denis [email protected]

Does anyone remember SAC David Smith? Hello to whoever reads this.

Unfortunately my dad (David Smith) is very ill with dementia.

I know he was on Christmas Island for 2 of the 3 tests, but not sure what he did, as he rarely spoke about the experience. So I was hoping you could ask your members if anyone could remember him.

Sadly all I have to go on is an old luggage label which says the following

Name: SAC Smith Destination: XMAS ISLANDService: DBH 148Any information will be gratefully received.Thank you Paul Smith.

30

Band 1 itemsCar Badge £3.00Blazer Badge £12.00Lapel Badge £2.50Cuff Links £5.00Key Fob £2.00Tie Clip £3.00Trolley Token New item £1.00Bookmark New item £3.00Grapple Tie £9.50BNTVA Tie £7.50Baseball Caps £11.00

Band 2 ItemsScarves Fleece £12.00Scarves Silk £13.00Shirts Small to XXXL £12.50

Band 3 ItemFleece Small to XXXL £22.00

Band 4 ItemTankard Glass £20.00

ALL PRICES PLUS POST AND PACKING

Band 1 add £1.00Band 2 add £3.00Band 3 add £4.00Band 4 add £5.00

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24

This important medal is a joint commission between the Australian and British Nuclear VeteransAssociations providing medallic recognition to veterans who served in nuclear testsite locations and supporting bases in Australia and the Pacific between 1952 and 1967.Next of kin or direct descendants can also apply.

The obverse of the medal depicts the nuclear symbol surrounded by the words 'British NuclearWeapons Tests in Australia & Pacific' and the reverse dramatically features a detonation cloud andthe words 'For Service in Radioactive Areas 1952-1967'. The ribbon is white on theedges representing the blinding white flash that comes before the fireball and then subsidesto the fireball which has the reddish fire in the centre and becomes the familiar mushroom shape.An easy care 100% polyester navy blue tie has been tastefully designed with stripes matching theribbon colours and bears an authenticating label on the reverse.

For further information and/oran application form contactAward Productions Ltd, (Dept. NNL)PO Box 300, Shrewsbury SY5 6WP, U.K.Tel: 01952 510053Fax: 01952 510765E-mail: [email protected]

www.awardmedals.com

The Australian Nuclear VeteransAssociation and the British NuclearTests Veterans Association are the

beneficiaries of this project.

Documents

BNTVA Journal Spring 2011