A tale of Peary Land, pulks and a polar bear

The 13 April meeting began with an update by the Chairman who mentioned that our Vice-Chairman had been readmitted to hospital for an operation, we have since heard that he is making a good recovery, also that our Slops member Bill Hellier has resigned but shipmate Ron Jones has taken on the job. The shipmates thanked Bill for all his efforts while in post.

The Branch officers gave reports as necessary. It has been found that if every officer speaks the evening is too prolonged so input is kept to a minimum.

In particular Richard Hughes (Welfare) reminded everyone of the SSAFA Fete (see Home Page) and the Episkopi Fete planned for September 17^th. Books, CDs, DVDs and drinks bottles (full) will be needed to stock our stalls for these events

Richard will also be asking for your support for an enterprise that he and his son (both former RM), his brother-in-law and nephew (both ex-Army) will be undertaking in October to raise funds for the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund and the Devon Air Ambulance Trust; namely taking part in the ‘Commando Challenge’. All Royal Marines recruits have to pass what is called the ‘Endurance Course’ as part of basic training, and again as they progress up to corporal and sergeant. Basically it’s a one and a half mile obstacle course over rough ground on Woodbury Common near the Commando Training Center, Devon and is usually followed by a timed 4 mile run back to CTCRM. If you want to know more log on to Commando Challenge on your internet browser and you will appreciate what he and his family members have set themselves up for. More details as they arrive.

The evening’s presentation was a remarkable tale given by Chris Shorrocks (former RAF Radio Engineer and RAF Mountain Rescue team member) who took part in a perilous four and a half month adventure in 1969 to circumnavigate and map a 750 mile route around, and into the hinterland of, ‘Peary Land’ on the northern coast of Greenland, recording any wildlife along the way. This 12 man party of intrepid explorers was made up of 4 from the RAF, 3 from the Army and Navy and 2 civilians.

The presentation was in the form of 35mm colour slides which more than adequately gave an impression of just how desolate, harsh and beautiful that part of the world is. For those of you with an atlas, try and find it.  For those with a bit more geographical knowledge it lies at 83 º 38’ N. Temperatures went down below -30 º and apart from taking the necessary technical data readings they also had to drag their equipment (up to 600lbs deadweight) on pulks (that’s a low slung, draggable sledge) across snow, ice, melt water streams and, when the snow ran out, they even had to lay a carpet of it over the rock to allow their continued passage with the pulks.

Chris’s recollections of multiple journeys to and from a base camp to create store dumps on the intended route ahead sounded all the more remarkable given the conditions described and also as a test of endurance. Notwithstanding all of the above, as they were all mountaineers of varying expertise they took the opportunity of climbing dozens of previously unclimbed peaks along the way.

On one part of their trek they awoke in their tents to find a polar bear helping itself to the contents of one of their pulks outside. Chris showed us slides of the bear enjoying this unintended picnic, as well as others taken later on. The bear was about seven and a half foot on its hind legs and appeared at different parts of their route. It thus posed a threat to the group so sadly it had to be shot (6 rounds of .303 resulted in its demise!).

All in all it was a wonderful tale which we heard also resulted in accolades from the prestigious Royal Geographic Society.

March 2011 – Wills, wakes and ‘quakes

To a backdrop of high winds and lashing rain, this month’s meeting still managed to attract some 22 intrepid members to brave the elements gather at the Officers’ Mess in Episkopi.

The Rev Eric Freeman has returned safely from his recent visit to Sri Lanka as a member of one of Vyvyan’s repeat group visits to the island, meanwhile George Williams is recovering at home from his recent operation and is gathering his strength before going back for his next one, meanwhile a bunch of flowers had been delivered to him from the membership to help aid his recovery.

Richard Hughes then went on to ask for volunteers to help him with the SSAFA ‘Party in the Park’ event in Happy Valley on the 4^th June as well as for the Episkopi Fete on 17 September. Any volunteers can find Richard’s contact details on the Contact Us tab on the home page.

Jack Philips stood up and gave a summary of his recent visit to the UK where he and two other members and their wives attended a second official memorial service at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Devon for our recently deceased Chairman; Andrew Noyes, which was followed by a wake in the Officers’ Mess.

To say that it was well attended by the Corps is a bit of an understatement as it seems that over 150 people were there including no less than eight (8) former Commandants General Royal Marines, which shows the high regard that Andrew was held in by his fellow officers.

Our Secretary (David Edgar) then put on his other committee hat (permanent Royal Navy representative) and gave the members a summary of recent naval events and operations over the past few months. The main emphasis seems to be the ongoing situation regarding international piracy off the coast of Somalia.

A short talk was then given by S/M Lee Hinton who related that caution should be exercised when drawing up a ‘Cypriot’ will, especially if the lawyer used is also the executor. His key point being that if the remuneration wording on your policy reads:

‘ . .  the executors may be remunerated for their services in accordance with the fee guidelines of the Cyprus Bar Association . . ‘

. . . or something similar then it may be prudent to review the policy.

It would seem that the commercial norm’ on the island is for the legal profession to publish their minimum fees (even these can be quite eye-watering) for administering to your last wishes, but not their maximum fees – apparently there aren’t any!  For further information, contact Lee directly.

The main event of the evening was a presentation from two members (Alan Wagstaffe and Keith Adair with technical support from Frank Goddard) of the Paphos 3rd Age (P3A) organization on a subject that was to become all too familiar over the next two days – earthquakes.

The knowledge imparted was in-depth, authoratitive and current, especially on the seismic activity around our part of the Med’ and Cyprus in particular. I understand that this presentation will also be given in other venues around the Paphos area shortly, if you get a chance to hear it – take it.

The look forward to our next meeting on 13 April is a presentation by Chris Shorrocks about his time on a Joint Services Expedition to Greenland between the months of March and early September back in 1969.

2011 – A new year and a new man at the helm

The sad events that closed 2010 necessitated a reorganization of the Branch Committee. To this end a full committee meeting took place on 27 January followed by the AGM on 9 February, which was attended by 32 members.

The updated nominal of Branch Officers is now on the Home Page of this web-site however, one post that has now become vacant is the Associate Members Rep’ as SM Raymond ‘The Judge’ Naqvi has had to stand down due to the volume of his official duties and a decision was then taken to let this post lapse. In future, any enquiry from any shipmate (Full or Associate) can be directed to any Committee member they think appropriate for advice or resolution of a problem.

The new chairman, David May, then addressed the membership and reflected on the highs and lows of the previous year and then projected his hopes and aspirations for the year ahead. He went on to state that the RNA Cyprus web-site had had some 4521 ‘hits’ since November 2009 so it would seem that there is a lot of interest ‘out there’ in the Branch and its activities.

The President (Sir Edward Du Cann KBE) was then invited to say a few words and also took the opportunity to present SM John Hale with a commemorative medal from the Russia authorities marking his time on the Arctic Convoys during WW2.

Eric Freeman then gave a very interesting and informative talk on the arrival of the British in Cyprus back in July 1878, at a time when political allegiances had changed back and forth between Britain, Russia and the Ottoman Empire, Britain was ‘gifted’ the possession of the island by the Ottomans. Led by General Sir Garnet Wolseley, the first Governor, the first British troops arrived on 22^nd July but rather than just giving a dry history lesson, Eric peppered his account with anecdotes that brought his topic to life. We may concern ourselves with the searing temperatures of last year but the arrival of the 42^nd Foot (The Black Watch) on that fateful day, saw the death within 24 hours of one of its VC holders (Sgt Samuel McGaw –VC awarded 5 years earlier in Wolseley’s Ashantee campaign) who died of heat apoplexy after a short (7 mile) forced march. And if you ever wondered about the sight of eucalyptus trees around the island, apparently they were imported by Sir Garnet’s administration to drain the Larnaca swamps. You learn something new every day.

This AGM also saw the signing up of our first Cypriot shipmate – Despina Leonidou.   

Some good news from New Zealand, SM John Keenan has been in contact to say that although they have lost their camper van and all of their possessions to the earthquake, they are in fine form and are being well looked after, but that they only have the clothes they were wearing at the time.

Wednesday the 16^th saw Mike ‘the Pipe’ Hasney representing the RNA at a presentation of Certificates of Appreciation by CBF to two ladies from Pissouri (Viv Taylor and Pat Gardener) who had raised several thousand euro’s for service personnel transiting through Bloodhound Camp on their ‘decompression’ stopover prior to their return to the UK from active service. The aim of the money raised was to provide recreational items for them that were not available through service sources. Although predominantly an ABF event, the RNA and RAFA were also invited to attend.

Christmas Party 2010

The Branch party was held at the Episkopi Officers Mess on Wednesday 8^th December and took the form of a bring and share buffet.

 Letters of thanks to the shipmates from Jackie and Caroline Noyes were read and there was discussion on the election of Officers due at the AGM in the New Year.

Shipmates took the opportunity to chat, meet guests and enjoy a relaxing evening together. Drinks from the Bar helped to engender the Christmas spirit but were not needed to keep out the cold on going ashore as Cyprus has had a prolonged ‘Indian Summer’ this year.

Lt. Col. Andrew John Frederick Noyes RM Rtd.

Our Chairman, Shipmate Andrew, was laid to rest in a quiet glade among pine trees as the afternoon sun dappled the ground and birdsong laced the air. A Royal Marine bugler sounded the last post and the standards of RNA Cyprus, RNA Eastern Cyprus, the British Legion and SSAFA were lowered. Many of Andrew’s friends from all facets of his life attended in support of his wife Jackie and their daughter Caroline. Over one hundred and fifty people were at that graveside in Dhekelia Military Cemetery on Friday 12^th November 2010.

The preceding memorial service in St.Barnabas Church was conducted by the Reverend Rod Price. An escort of Royal Marine veterans preceded the coffin down the aisle. After opening prayers the 23^rd’Psalm was sung followed by a reading from Caroline. Caroline went on to give us an appreciation of her father which she delivered with great courage and no little humour. It was a testament to Andrew and wife Jackie’s character that their daughter was able to carry out such a sad task so well. Eulogies were read by Trevor Philpott representing the Commandant General, Royal Marines and Robert Bensley. Prayers, The Royal Marines collect and the naval hymn followed by The Commendation concluded the service.

A celebration of Andrew’s life was held later at the Episkopi Officers Mess. The tenor of the whole day was set by Jackie who asked that no mourning rig be worn, that the ladies should attend in summer dress, and that the men wear light suits with Service ties. After drinks and felicitations the company were entertained by a recitation of Andrew’s ‘party piece’ Rindicella. A poem from the ‘Bard of Bathgate’ was followed by a revealing and mostly hilarious speech from Major Mike Ball. It was an occasion which Andrew would have loved.

Trevor Philpott, his ‘best man’, has kindly allowed me to extract details from his Eulogy. The following includes just a few of his notes:

Andrew lived life to the full, always giving and working to help others. His personal standards of integrity and courtesy were high and seen throughout his career and life. Born on 15^th.April 1948 he met his future wife Jackie at their local kindergarten. Andrew went to school in East Anglia in grew up in London. He joined the Royal Marines at ITCRM in 1966.

 Andrew served with 42 Cdo. in 1968-69 and was trained in jungle warfare. He married Jackie on 12^th. August 1970. The perversity of the Service took him almost immediately to sea in HMS Tartar. Thereafter he served with 40 Cdo. during Operation Motorman in Northern Ireland and also in the USA. In 1974 Jackie accompanied her husband to Sharjah where he was on loan service to the Trucial Oman Scouts. Andrew reorganised and developed the Garrison there such that he was able to hand over to a full Colonel on completion of his tour.

Andrew went on to become an accomplished Staff Officer.  This  was evident in his appointment to serve as the RM Corps Secretary from 1992 until his retirement in 2006. In that time he administered over 67 high profile Corps and public events including Mountbatten Concerts and Beat Retreat ceremonies on Horse Guards Parade. He was central in establishing the RM Benevolent Fund which supports royal marines and their families who fall on hard times. In addition he was a Trustee of the RM Museum, the RM Association, the RM/RM Children’s Fund, Seafarers UK and was an Area Supervisor for the RN Benevolent Trust.

In Cyprus he carried his administrative skills into civilian life. There he was heavily involved with SSAFA, the RBL and the RNA. He also was prominent in the Pissouri Residents Association, the Pissouri Ramblers, and the Episkopi Hash.

Andrew Noyes was a man who accepted challenges, who had a great sense of humour and who was attractively eccentric. For him life was something to enjoy. He touched the lives and hearts of all who knew him.

There is perhaps no better summation of him than that of Mike Groves of the Cyprus Waggoners who said:

 ‘Andrew Noyes was a man who did’

                                                                              DLM

                                                                              15^th. Nov. 2010

 

NOVEMBER MEETING 2010

Shipmates were very saddened by the news of Chairman Andrew Noyes’ sudden death on Saturday afternoon 6^th.November. We gathered in the Episkopi Officers Mess on the 10^th. to pay tribute to him and to say farewell to Janet Gould who was retiring as Secretary. For 4 years Janet has organised meetings, the Episkopi Fete stand at Happy Valley, Christmas parties plus sandwiches for every meeting. Janet thanked us for her gifts at Trafalgar Night and promised to return to visit Cyprus again.

Shipmate George Williams, who succeeds Andrew in post, paid tribute to his service to H.M.The Queen, to the RNA and to many other organisations of whom Andrew was a member and leader. A more comprehensive list of these is included in an appreciation of his life herein. We all joined George in expressing our sorrow and sympathies to Jackie and Andrew’s daughter Caroline.

After leading the members in a silence Shipmate Eric Freeman, Branch Chaplain, read the seafarers version of the 23^rd.Psalm (Captain Rogers). Then he touched upon Andrew’s personal qualities and quoted Mike Groves of the Cyprus Waggoners saying ‘Andrew was a man who did’.

Shipmate David May read a message of condolences to Andrew’s family and the Cyprus Branch from the Branch General Secretary Paul Quinn OBE. He is to be remembered by the National Council in silence on the 4^th.December 2010.

Our President Sir Edward du Cann reminded us of the analogy of a full rigged ship sailing which can be seen in the Memorial Page of this website. He lifted or spirits, as he always does, and underlined our determination that the Branch will go on.

And so the shipmates set to; looking to our future and setting the Branch up for a ‘refit’. Which started by sending the Gangway Box takings to the RM Fund and the RN Children’s Fund. Two of Andrew’s charities.

 

TRAFALGAR NIGHT 2010

The Moniatis Hotel

39 Shipmates and guests attended the Branch’s celebration of Trafalgar Night at the Moniatis hotel in Yermasoyia Limassol on the 21^st of October, the 205^th Anniversary of the Battle. Shipmate George Williams, our Vice Chairman, took particular responsibility for finding this venue and arranging the details of our menu, accommodation and entertainment. George deserves a massive ’Bravo Zulu’ for all his much appreciated efforts.

Regrettably our President, Sir Edward du Cann, was unable to be with us this year as he had a previous engagement in the United Kingdom. He always raises the Branch’s moral with his particularly stirring addresses so he was much missed. However it was a wonderful surprise to welcome back Honorary Life Vice President Nobby Hall and wife Helen for the occasion.

Shipmate David May led the company in Nelson’s Grace after which a very good three course meal was served including traditional roast beef. The following Loyal Toast and a toast to The President of Cyprus were proposed by our Chairman Andrew. Andrew’s speech emphasised the vital need to have HM Ships in the English Channel as a safeguard for the United Kingdom even during the Battle of Britain.

Our long serving and stalwart Secretary Janet Gould will be leaving later this year. It was therefore timely for Andrew to present her with our gift of a silver dish and cut glass goblets accompanied by flowers as an appreciation of all her efforts over the years and in the company of her late husband Vice Chairman Ian.

Janet and Ian were among the original members of the Cyprus Branch of the RNA and Nobby added his comments to those of Andrew in outlining just how much time and effort the Goulds have given to our gatherings. Janet has not only performed secretarial duties but also organised our stand at the Episkopi Fete for many years and produced the lovely sandwiches at our meetings. We wish her all good fortune in returning to her family in England and she carries our love and happy memories with her.

The toast’ The Immortal Memory’ was proposed by Major Mike Ball a retired officer in Cyprus Joint HQ as SO2 JI (Personnel). Mike originally joined the REME and went on to commando training in the RM. After time in the Brigade Air Squadron plus HM Ships Albion and Bulwark he became a WO1 in the REME and was eventually commissioned into the Army Education Corps. Mike is a noted Toastmaster who recently won the ‘Toastmaster of the Year, Cyprus’ award. His preceding talk was peppered with amusing notes, often personal, such as how like Lord Nelson he lost (nearly) an eye in Corsica (thumped with a soup ladle!). Of special interest was his narration of the French version of the Battle. It seems political ‘spin’ was alive and well even two centuries ago. Mike highlighted Nelson’s relationship with Collingwood. These aspects of the Battle of Trafalgar will be well worth researching for those who take the time.

Mike Ball addressing the company

Janet Gould
 

EPISKOPI FETE 2010

 

Many thanks to SM Richard Hughes and his team of helpers at this year’s fete on Saturday 18^th September. They raised the sum of 385.31 Euros which was an excellent result.

Many other stall holders said that there were less people there this year and those that did attend spent less.

Grateful thanks are due to SMs Janet Gould and Raymond Naqvi for organising and preparing donations and to those generous shipmates who contributed.

 

 

 

MINIATURE NUMISMATICS
 

Alec Clement

40 Shipmates and guests met at the Officers Mess, Episkopi on the 15th September for the first get together after the long and extremely hot summer recess. Chairman Andrew started the proceedings with a few notes of welcome to Tania and to Alec and Mary Clement from the Hanworth Branch. It is always good to see shipmates from other branches and the Clements are regular visitors.

Andrew noted the death of Flt.Lt Jack Blocki, a WW11 Polish VC holder who flew with RAF Bomber Command, recently interred at Dhekelia Cemetery and known to many in the Episkopi area.

There was happier news of an invitation to shipmates to visit 800 Squadron RNAS currently deployed at RAF Akrotiri.

Shipmate Padre Eric Freeman recalled WW11 Operations Avalanche and Source before leading us in the opening prayer. He reminded us that next Sunday would be Sea Sunday.

Shipmate Richard Hughes (Standard Bearer) celebrated his 60th Birthday with a tot of rum for all the shipmates. It was delicious and much appreciated. Richard is seen here with Vivvy and Peter.

 

Shipmate Kevin Barnes (above) gave us an overview of the world of medal collecting; in particular miniatures. Interested in the subject for 16 years he is now the Cyprus Secretary of the Orders and Medal Research Society. Listening to an expert was enlightening as Kevin outlined the history of medals (the United Kingdom was very late into the scene). The details of awards, their value in the market and rarity were all mentioned. Aspects such as the preference for miniatures to full size became obvious i.e. they are more easily obtained, cheaper and easily kept. Kevin’s thoughts on the origins of miniatures are worth a particular mention. In the 18th and 19th. centuries there were two British armies, the regular army and that of the East India Company. The latter wore thinner cotton uniforms hence use of the lighter weight decorations.

Apart from the beauty of Kevin’s collection seen in the photographs below there was, of course, the human interest behind the medals. He told us just a few of the tales of gallantry and endurance but it was enough to make us appreciate what a wide subject is this branch of numismatics.

There is an enormous data base of reference books, catalogues, periodicals available to anyone who would like to start a collection or find out about relative’s awards and service records. There are also the internet and professional organisations such as Kentigern House in Glasgow for sourcing information.

Just some of Kevin’s collection:



Email: kevinbarnesomrs@btinternet.com  for information.
 

 

THE BIRLEY'S DEPART

 

The July meeting was Lt.Cdr. John Birley’s farewell meeting. During his time on the Headquarters Staff in Cyprus John and his wife Kim were great supporters of the RNA Branch where John regularly gave an update on the Royal Navy and Royal Marines at our monthly meetings. Kim meanwhile ran the monthly raffle for the Branch. At the July meeting The Chairman thanked Lt.Cdr. and Mrs. Birley for all their support to the Cyprus Branch over the past two and a half years and wished them well at John’s next appointment in FLEET HQ. John then gave an extended update on the Royal Navy and showed the most recent RN produced DVD “2-6” as a fitting end to his time in Cyprus.

 

John always gave his presentations in a light hearted manner holding the Shipmates attention with his particular view of the Senior Service news. John and Kim will be missed at Episkopi.

 

MEDALS FOR SHIPMATE

On Tuesday 22nd June shipmate David May was asked to attend at a local Paphos hotel to receive the Pingat Jasa Malaysia medal.  Shipmate Mike Hasney  was also asked to attend a similar ceremony at the RBL in Limassol to receive his medal. It is awarded for service in the Malaysian theatre during confrontation with Soekarno’s Indonesia between dates in the 1960s.

The people of Malaysia wish to express their gratitude to those who helped protect their new country at that time. However they have no record of names, formations, ships or dates of service. Therefore they have invited anyone who was involved to apply individually for the award pictured (left). Her Majesty has graciously allowed her Forces to accept the medal but there are restrictions as to wearing.

Fuller details can be obtained from several good websites entering ‘Pingat Jasa Malaysia’ in the search engine.

 

 

 

GLORIOUS 21^st JUNE FOR CYPRUS SHIPMATES

The 21^st.June was an unusual day for the shipmates of our Branch in that two significant events were attended.

Pictured here  Richard Hughes parades our standard, with true Royal Marine flair, flanked by those of the RBL and the RAFA. The flag raising ceremony was attended by eight shipmates and was held at the Garrison in the Episkopi Sovereign Base Area.

 

The second event was a meeting of shipmates with a group of ex Wrens from Portugal. 9 RNA shipmates, three of whom were genuine ex WRNS, 2 Waafs, 2 husbands and 2 ‘also rans’ joined the party for drinks at the Miremar Beach hotel in Limassol at 1830. Much to our member’s great surprise and pleasure they were all invited to join the visitors for dinner when they mingled and exchanged stories.

One result was that Marjorie Thompson found herself sitting at the same table a lady who was in the same intake as herself in 1956; they even had the group photo to prove it.

The ladies will be keeping in touch so our Secretary Janet is sure that further news can be obtained from Marjory.

 

HIDEAWAY SUPPER

On Wednesday 16th. June our shipmates met at the Hideaway Taverna in Pissouri to share a good social evening in the gentle warmth of the Cyprus summer evening.

At this time of year the air at dusk can be heavy with the floral scents such as the Night Scented Jasmine. In the village square the local vendors set up their food stalls and the local expats and tourists enjoy eating in the open with views all around of the Cyprus countryside.

       
There is an air of fun and relaxation with many smiling faces.
 

SHIPMATE WILLIAM GEORGE PAYNTER “BILL”

 

Our good friend and shipmate Bill died quietly at home on 17th.June with his friend and latterly companion Tania by his side. Her devotion and care for Bill was of the highest order. She regularly saw that he attended our meetings and her company not only lightened his days but eased his struggle against a long illness. Bill was born in Wales and left school to join the Royal Engineers. He talked little of his time in the Army but was in the D-Day assaults as a member of the 6th. Airborne Division landing by sea. That day he went on to protect Pegasus Bridge and others from further damage plus other engineering tasks. After WWII Bill became a Clerk of Works in the Army.He was involved in building quarters and roads in the Cyprus bases. In 1959 he joined the Diplomatic Service as a Queen’s Messenger retiring as a First Secretary.

Tania

Bill settled in Cyprus and was a member of the RBL, the Air borne Forces Association and the RNA. It is as a shipmate in the latter that we remember him; a quiet kindly and self effacing man. The sort of man that our Branch attracts and for whose company we will always be grateful.

 

Bill is buried here at Erimi with his brother and sister in the company of other gallant Airborne soldiers.

 

 

2 LANCS AND AFGHANISTAN

 

On Thursday 13 May the Branch was priveleged to be hosted by the 2nd Battalion the Lancaster Regiment in their Officers' Mess in Episkopi Garrison. The meeting started with a presentation of 200 Euros to the Episkopi Branch of the Sea Scouts and the donation was presented to the Sea Scouts by our Chairman, Lt Col Andrew Noyes.  After normal Branch business Major Edward Hemesley, the Second in Command of the 2 Lancs Battalion, then spoke to the Branch on life for the Battalion in Cyprus, welfare issues, preparation and training for operations in the Middle East, and recent operations in Afghanistan.          Major Hemesley chats with the Philips.

Andrew presents  our cheque

The presentation, aided by numerous slides, was of a high standard and members present found the evening a most revealing insight into current operations by the Army in Afghanistan, and this was followed by a long question period by Branch members.  The Branch are most thankful to 2 Lancs for their hospitality throughout a most successful evening

 

OF LOSSES

The Branch shipmates met in the Base Officers Mess, Episkopi in sombre mood on Thursday 8^th. April at 1930. In everyone’s mind was the dear memory of Vice Chairman Ian Gould’s crossing the bar on the 30th. of March. Our Secretary Janet Gould and son Douglas were greeted with great affection and sympathy. Appreciations were read from Chairman Andrew Noyes on behalf of the branch, from former chairman and Life Vice President ‘Nobby’ Hall and Helen Hall and also Janet’s own tribute to her husband. Extracts of these follow.

Remembering Ian, (Janet and Douglas in right foreground)

Janet:
‘Dear Shipmates,
I and my children would like to thank most sincerely. All of you who either by your physical presence, or by you kind words, cards and emails, gave us the strength to face our grief and to say our farewell to Ian in such a wonderful way. I can guarantee that the village would never have seen anything like it.

Ian was a great character who lived his life by a high standard. He had strong beliefs in many subjects, and if given a task to perform, did so diligently and well. He also had a wicked sense of humour and could keep us all entertained with his fund of silly jokes and stories. He was in fact many things to many people, and all have a different and special memory of him.

He was justly proud of his short time in the Royal Navy, and is still today held in very high regard by many of the ex young and nervous conscripts that he helped adjust to life away for the first time from their families. He loved the RNA and worked hard to support the Branch. He did not miss a single meeting since he became a member at the inaugural meeting.

I have never before appreciated or given much thought to what a lovely and apt expression is “Crossing The Bar”. It comforts us all greatly to know that he is not really gone from us and will always be remembered.’

Andrew Noyes:
‘Ian was an invaluable member of our Branch. A founder member, committee member and a great supporter of the Branch’s activities, he was also extremely pleasant and great fun to know socially. I, in particular, am most grateful to him during my short period as Chairman during which he provided me with such good support and useful advice to me in his role as the Vice Chairman of the Branch.

Needless to say we will miss Ian at our future meetings and social activities, but I can assure he will not be forgotten and will always be remembered as a most agreeable fellow Shipmate, most sincere member of the Royal Naval Association and a very proud former member of the Royal Navy.

All Shipmates in the Cyprus Branch offer their sincere condolences, deepest sympathy and our thoughts at this sad time for you and your family.’

Nobby Hall:
‘Ian was a great character and will be sorely missed by all who knew him. I have many fond memories of late nights in the Mess, parties at his and Janet’s home and so much more involving him, with a brandy and a cigarette clutched firmly in his hand. You can take solace from the fact that he lived a long and happy life and brought pleasure to all who knew him.

The world will be a lonelier place without the presence of the old Club Swinger.’

(As the editor of this website and not having known Ian as long as others I can fully endorse all the foregoing and add that Ian was one of the loveliest characters that I have had the good fortune to meet in 71 years.
D. May.)

Chaplain shipmate Eric Freeman then addressed the meeting. He said that although he knew Ian well he had never ever been able to find out exactly what he had done in life after leaving the RN. When he asked, Ian would only say ‘lots of things’! Eric read Captain J. Rogers paraphrasing of the 23rd.Psalm for seafarers and Tennyson’s ‘Crossing the Bar’. We then stood in silence.

36 Shipmates and guests attended. Guests Mike and Tatiana Hillier, Andy Kirby, Emma Birley and Douglas Gould were welcomed by our chairman. The Branch officers then gave their reports including an RN update by Jonathan Birley. These are always enjoyed as Jonathan has a light hearted amusing delivery. The news of RFA Largs Bay, a dramatic RN flight to the assistance of two premature babies born in Stornoway, the building of the bow sections for the new ‘carrier’ and the inspiring narratives of recent gallantry awards held our attention. We noted with regret the departure of our last grey hulls ‘Dasher’ and ‘Pursuer’ by transport for the Clyde Base.   We then stood down for ‘stand easy’ during which Ann Hasney won the raffle for a beautiful watch.

The Birleys

 

 

Kim Birley presents Ann’s watch.


 

The address for the evening was by Detective Inspector Andy Kirby who was intimately involved in the investigation of the loss of the Stern Freezer Trawler MV Gaul on 9th. February 1974. She had sailed from Hull ostensibly on a routine voyage but was equipped to monitor the Russian North Sea Fleet. She was only two years old when she disappeared without warning in heavy weather off North Cape.
 

Andy described how he was commissioned to travel to the Bybachiy peninsula on the Barents Sea and the town of Nikel; which he described as a most awful place. There he had to oversee the exhumation of bodies found on the shore line and take DNA samples for matching to those of the families of the Gaul personnel. No matches were found but later penetration of the wreck, once located, yielded positive matches from bodies therein.

Andy described the anguish of the Gaul Families Association and their reluctance to admit that she had been lost in a severe storm (waste chutes and a door had been left open). He also related how a local Hull MP and Cabinet Minister helped fund the investigation.

Throughout his talk he described in some detail that human remains found were where they should have been in a storm situation; this was done at a depth of 1000feet by ROVs. The resulting forensic analysis was conclusive. Despite all the alternative theories of capture by the Russians, snagging by submarines etc. it was proved beyond doubt that the Gaul was overcome by freak waves in very heavy weather.

Questions about the MV Gaul

Altogether a fascinating talk by the police officer who was on the spot.

Vice Chairman Ian Gould

With deep sorrow we announce that our much loved Vice Chairman Ian Gould crossed the bar Thursday 30th March in hospital after a short illness. Our heartfelt condolences go to Janet, our Secretary, whom we hold in our thoughts and prayers.

The funeral was held at St.Nicholas Church in Agios Tychonas Church at midday on Good Friday. The service was well attended by shipmates and associate shipmates of the Branch. The Standards of the Cyprus Branch of the British Legion and the Cyprus Branch of the Royal Naval Association were paraded in salute.

CHAIRMEN’S RUN ASHORE

While Branch Chairman Andrew Noyes and wife Jackie were on a Caribbean cruise their ship the 'MV Ventura' put into Grand Turk on the 4^th. of March. They were met by ex branch Chairman and Honorary Life vice President ‘Nobby’ Hall and Helen Hall who had travelled 70 miles from their base to meet the ship.

They toured the island in a marked police car from Nobby’s Force.  So it might have been reasonable for an onlooker to question just why two visiting ‘Brits’ appeared to be having so much fun under the circumstances! We hear that all went well and a good lunch was shared.

  Nobby, Helen, Jackie and Andrew

WOODBINE WILLIE

Twenty two shipmates attended our March meeting held as usual in the Officers Mess, SBA Episkopi. As our Chairman and wife Jacquie were ‘off island’, incidentally meeting our Honorary Life Vice President Nobby on a ‘jolly’ in the Turks and Caicos Islands of which we should soon hear more, Vice Chairman Ian Gould oversaw the gathering. 

In our opening prayer shipmate Eric Freeman drew attention to the restoration of the two WW11 air-sea rescue launches now completed in Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth. Our shipmates of these coastal forces were remembered; they saved 10,000 downed aircrew.

Reports from the committee included a welfare update, an April visit to Cyprus by members of the WRNS Association (see Secretary’s telephone number for details) and a heartening word from Jonathan Birley on the latest Fleet news. Signed up members for this year are 52 so far.

Richard Hughes told us of his father’s experiences serving in air-sea rescue launches off Dover harbour in 1943; these craft had such a shallow draught that they could run over the minefields unharmed. Placed strategically in the Channel they homed in on returning aircraft from Europe who could easily locate them and ditch nearby. He also said that any crew member who noticed an attack or threat otherwise unseen was to open the throttles wide without a definite order!

The main event of the evening was shipmate Rev. Eric Freeman’s talk on the WW1 Army Chaplain Geoffrey Anketell Stoddart Kennedy known as Woodbine Willie. In France he gained this title from his custom of jumping onto the running boards of trains bound for the front. In his pocket on one side he would have copies of the New Testament and on the other packets of Woodbine cigarettes. There were no ‘atheists’ in the trenches so both were well accepted by the troops. Eric’s narration went thoroughly into the man’s background and motivation. It was a moving talk and Eric did well to keep going. As the accompanying article illustrates here was a truly exceptional character who has not received as much fame as other war poets but expressed in word and action a real love and understanding of his fellow man. Please read the whole article. CLICK HERE to download the word document article.

Eric is pictured holding a priceless first edition of Geoffrey Kennedy’s poems on his left hand

When we had finished the general opinion was that we had had one of the best evenings in recent months.

- Award for Honorary Life Vice President -

LOOKING BACK

The 11th February meeting at the Officer’s Mess, Episkopi was well attended and began with our Chaplain Eric Freeman reminding us of the losses before and during the Gallipoli Campaign.

Ex ‘Schoolie’ ret. Lt. Graham Locke was welcomed as a prospective shipmate together with several other visitors. Then Chairman Andrew Noyes brought us up to date with Branch news.

Shipmates were concerned to hear of the ill health of SMs Bill Painter, George Williams and Fred Cooper. We wish them rapid recoveries and hope to see them at our meetings soon.

Andrew went on to say that all charitable donations planned at the AGM had been made and welcomed by the recipient bodies. SM Jenny Revell has agreed to organise our social events in an ex-officio capacity. We look forward to hearing reports on another ‘social event’ when our Chairman and wife Jacquie will meet up with our Honorary Life Vice President Nobby Hall and Helen while on a forthcoming cruise in the Caribbean.

Secretary Janet Gould reminded us that about now we should start to plan for the Episkopi Fete stall. Due to lower wine and spirits costs in Cyprus the lucky dip barrel was no longer a sustainable attraction. Janet said that, in fact, the market really ‘had us over a barrel’!

A good opportunity to raise extra funds has resulted from SM Mike Woods’ kind donation of a superb RN watch which is to be raffled over the next three meetings. After an update on the naval scene from SM Jonathan Birley we broke off for sandwiches and drinks.

The presentation for the evening was given by Andrew who showed us a DVD about the Royal Navy from 1939, when it was the largest navy in the world, well into WW2. At the outset the RN was well set up to fight what was then a conventional war but it was not suited for the U boat war and it lacked appropriate aircraft.
 

Shipmates watching HMS Barham in fleet manoeuvres on the DVD.
 

Sound and music to the images on the large screen made for an interesting documentary. We saw scenes and action from Malta to Hong Kong and Norway. The sequences were rare, many in colour and brought home to us the real hardships of the sea war but also the camaraderie of our fathers in the Service. Of particular interest were scenes showing the capture of the Altmark, high speed (36 knots) destroyer manoeuvres and vintage footage of liners used for trooping. Incidentally in those days a torpedo cost £1200.

 

Annual General Meeting 2010

The Annual General Meeting of the Branch was held in the Officer’s Mess, Episkopi Sovereign Base Area on Wednesday the 13th. of January at 1930.

Proceedings were opened by our Honorary Chaplain Rev’d. Eric Freeman leading us in prayer for our lost shipmates over the years and in particular for those lost in the HM Submarine Truculent disaster sixty years ago. We stood in silence in memory of gallant Captain Daniel Read of the Royal Logistics Corps 11 Ordnance Disposal Regiment recently killed in Afghanistan.

The only Branch Officer due for re-election was our excellent Secretary, Janet Gould, who once more kindly agreed to continue in post; no volunteer’s hand shot up to take her place!

It was with regret that we accepted George ‘Bungy’ Williams’ retirement as Welfare Officer. George’s health has not been good. We thank him for his contribution to the Branch and wish him a speedy and total recovery. Our Chairman Andrew Noyes will take over as our Welfare contact.

Visitors from the Royal Logistics Corps Association Tina and Stuart Graham, Dave Neville and Drew Elgeti (Publicity Officer for SSAFA Cyprus) were welcomed as was new shipmate L/Regulator Andy Dewsnip who will ‘arrive on board’ as our new Serving Member when Jonathan Birley departs in the summer.

Our Chairman then read his 2009 Branch report for the Association together with relevant news from our officers. We are sad to lose our local Squadron with the P 2000s HMS Dasher and HMS Pursuer. Shipmate Jonathan Birley has agreed to comment on this and his notes are below.

<------- Dave, Graham, Tina and Drew.
 

Interestingly, Andrew mentioned that the real ‘Man Who Never Was’ (Tom Martin) whose body was used to delude the Nazi forces in WWII was traced as a member of a previous HMS Dasher crew.

Kim Birley empties wallets for the Raffle
 

After our usual raffle, sandwiches and drinks, our President Sir Edward gave us a talk on the Duke of Wellington’s time as a politician after Waterloo. Like many successful people who go into politics after a dazzling career in other areas of public life the Duke met strong opposition. In those days it was fashionable to lampoon one’s opponents in caricatures and cartoons such as this one.

Sir Edward has built a collection of these prints and presented them as a slide show. He had several framed examples to show us. Sir Edward’s seat in Taunton is not far from Wellington whence Arthur Wellesley took his Title. We benefited from the former’s particular interest in Wellington’s parliamentary progress, overshadowed by the French Revolution, in economic and military terms. He also touched upon the Duke’s close relationship with Sir Robert Peel. In conclusion our President held up Wellington as a man who stood, above all, for what was right and compared his example with today’s political scene.

It was a privilege to see and hear an expert expound such an unusual perspective on the Duke.

Mike Hasney signs on Leading Regulator Andy Dewsnip:

and below

Nick and Jane Smith admire one of Sir Edward’s prints.

Jonathan Birley, in the background behind Nick, writes:

‘It will be a sad day when the two remaining RN platforms in Cyprus depart these shores for pastures new. HMS Dasher and HMS Pursuer will return to the UK sometime in February to start preparations for the next stage of their naval service. They will be moving up to the Clyde to operate in somewhat cooler waters than those to which they have been accustomed for the last few years. Losing the Royal Navy Cyprus Squadron (RNCS) from these shores was not an easy decision, but one brought about by the current harsh realities of the Defence Budget. It was no reflection on the capability, performance or potential of these sturdy little patrol boats with their dedicated and thoroughly professional crews. It is in fact quite a feather in their caps to be selected for a more operational role in Scottish waters, as they will be contributing to the defence of the submarines that operate from the Clyde. Our thoughts and prayers go with those ships and their people, as they have been excellent ambassadors for the Royal Navy during their service with British Forces Cyprus.’

We wish you ‘fair winds and following seas.’

CHRISTMAS THRASH 2009

This year we felt like having a good social evening and over 40 shipmates and guests attended at the Officer’s Mess, Episkopi Garrison on Wednesday the 8th. of December. As our Chairman was off island our vice Chairman Ian Gould (left fore ground) oversaw the party and ensured a good time for all. Eric Freeman began the celebrations with our prayer of remembrance for lost Shipmates worldwide and commented on his connection with the Southend on Sea Branch which is the only one in the UK to commemorate the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour. We were concerned to learn that our Welfare Officer George ‘Bungy’ Williams was in ill health and we wish him a speedy recovery.

Janet Gould and Jenny Revell organised a finger buffet with delicious contributions from our members which lubricated from the bar got things off to a happy start.

A raffle and quiz kept our pockets and neurons active while our publicity officer felt moved to recite his experiences as the fairy on top of the Christmas tree.

Party Scran:

 

These pictures have been censored but show the fun that we had. It must be made clear that the hand grenade illustrated is genuine but empty of all explosive and fuse. Raymond was delighted to add it to his collection; mentioned in our last report. Not everyone gets such in his Christmas stocking!

The Fairy (Glesca Version).

Eric, Rod and their ladies. Eric claimed that that fairy wouldn’t be recognised in the Gallowgate’ barras’ (a famous Glasgow flea market).


 

“ If I drop this into the ‘gangway’ box will it make the party go with a bang?”

Raymond Naqvi, John Keenan and Ron Jones.


 

“ No. You have to take the pin out first”.

Instruction from a former Royal.
 

"Look what that nice man gave me Darling"	Associate shipmates associate.

AND SO WE WISH ALL OUR SHIPMATES, READERS AND FRIENDS,
SERVING AND RETIRED THROUGHOUT THE WORLD,
A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A PEACEFUL NEW YEAR FROM CYPRUS.

REMEMBRANCE 2009

This year branch Shipmates attended two venues celebrating Remembrance Day, Sunday 8^th November. At the Happy Valley site in the Episkopi Sovereign Base Area Vice Chairman Shipmate Ian Gould laid the wreath on behalf of the Cyprus Branch of the Royal Naval Association. After the Service shipmates adjourned to the K.B. Taverna for a refreshing lunch. This has become a pleasant Branch tradition.

The other Service was the well publicised unveiling of the British Cyprus Memorial near Kyrenia; in occupied northern Cyprus. The following are reports from two of our shipmates who attended.

Sir Edward du Cann writes:

'The ceremony in Kyrenia on the 8^th.November went extremely well. The names of the 317 Servicemen who died in the Emergency are inscribed on the Memorial. Wreaths were laid by the British High Commissioner on behalf of The Queen and Senior Officers from the Navy, Army and the Air Force also laid wreaths on behalf of the 3 Services. followed by wreaths laid by representatives of all the Regiments which served in Cyprus during the Emergency. A wreath was laid on behalf of the RNA by Shipmate Jack Philips which, as one might expect, was well done. More than 50 relatives of those who died attended. In all there were more than 500 people present. The Service was conducted by the Bishop of Cyprus. It was a moving occasion'.

Shipmate Jack Philips writes:

'Last Sunday 8th.November, I attended the unveiling of the British Cyprus Memorial which commemorates the 371 British Service men who were killed during the Cyprus Emergency 1955-59.

The Memorial was instigated by the British Cyprus Memorial Trust, set up specially to raise funds and to oversee the siting of the Memorial. It was crafted in Norfolk and shipped to Kyrenia to be assembled by the stonemason who did the work; assisted by some local masons. It is beautiful; a simple but effective design, 8 vertical granite pillars on a plinth, engraved with the Regimental crests of the dead; set out in order of precedence. Thus the RN and RM crests are on the leftmost pillar.

After the unveiling, by HM High Commissioner, RN Bugle Corporal James Christopher sounded Last Post & Reveille as well as I have ever heard them played, very poignant. The 450 odd relatives, veterans and guests then watched as 31 wreaths were laid by people representing HM The Queen, The First Sea Lord and Royal Marines, laid by Lt.Gen.Sir Henry Beverley (a trustee), followed by representatives of the many units who served here at the time. Sadly many no longer exist, but at least their crests will live on, on the Memorial.

I was honoured to be asked to lay the wreath on behalf of the RNA, one of only two Associations represented, particularly as I served here during the Emergency.

The Memorial is a 'must see' for anyone visiting the North and some local veterans have been organised to maintain it and keep it tidy in future.'

For further information please visit www.britishcyprusmemorial.org 

In the interest of balanced reporting it has to be pointed out that there have been protests in the local Greek Cypriot press and English printed equivalents over the presence of the Memorial in Cyprus. This is not unexpected as many Cypriots also lost relatives in the Emergency years and of course deserve sympathy.

ARMISTICE DAY

Our regular monthly meeting at the Officer's Mess, Episkopi SOB, fell on the 11^th.November. Our thoughts were, naturally, of Remembrance and all that it means.We know too well that our sons and daughters are still 'in harm's way'. After shipmate Rev. Eric Freeman led us in prayers our publicity officer Shipmate David May read the following poem 'Sounds of War' which he wrote with Afghanistan particularly in mind.

Upon the air a wail is borne.
Another one from mother torn.
From shot or mine a life laid down
To win a freedom we should own

The vessel, home to all her crew,
Is struck and groans in protest too.
Then boiling, dies and sinks from sight
To never more see harbour's light.

High above, the pilot's plane
Shatters and falls in smoke and  flame.
A howling scream of final pain
Till earth takes her and crew again.

The sounds of war are not yet quiet.
Straight from Hell they rise and riot.
Remember where our Forces go
For they still die where poppies grow. 

(D. L May. Cyprus 2009)

Reports then followed from our branch officers. We heard that our numbers stand at 77 and the final sum raised at the Episkopi Fete was 448 Euros. Then Janet Gould, our redoubtable Secretary furnished us with delicious sandwiches. With second drinks to hand we listened to Andrew Noyes outline a few thoughts on the Great War. He said that 885,138 UK Service personnel were lost out of a total Allies loss of 5.7 million. He went on to give brief outline of the Battle of Jutland but dwelt more on the history of the 63rd. Royal Navy Division.

Andrew was followed by shipmate Raymond Naqvi who talked about the human stories behind those whom we have heard mentioned as war heroes; people such as Violette Szabo GC, Jack Cornwell VC and Cecil Lewis MC; author of 'Sagittarius Rising'. He talked very movingly of the human cost, the lost loves and the heroism which is not reported. Raymond described Cedric MacDonald Fraser's sentiments on Hiroshima while serving as an infantryman in Burma. As Judge on War Pensions in the UK he is very familiar with the heartrending injustices that can befall ex-servicemen if they are not protected.

Finally Raymond unveiled a fascinating collection of trench art and war memorabilia for our interest.
 

This evening was not graced by a guest speaker but put together by our shipmates. The result was a warm and poignant meeting that left us with full hearts and strengthened feelings of comradeship.

TRAFALGAR NIGHT 2009

Our Trafalgar Night dinner was held at the Club Aphrodite, Erimi for the second time. 49 Shipmates and guests attended. The Guests of Honour were our President Sir Edward du Cann and Mrs. Maureen Wynne - Hope plus Colonel Trevor Brewster Retd. and Mrs. Joan Brewster from Tala.

After Nelson's Grace was said Chairman Andrew Noyes welcomed all shipmates and guests. A full five course meal was served which had been arranged by Shipmate Michael Hasney. In the best RNA tradition there had to be a few fines (bottles of port) imposed on our more exuberant shipmates in the course of dinner.

The speeches were opened by Andrew who read out a Trafalgar night message from Honorary Life Vice President 'Nobby' Hall, who has never missed a Trafalgar Night. Nobby described his determination to hold a proper Trafalgar Night dinner in the Turks and Caicos Islands this year and mentioned his success in persuading His Excellency HM Governor to propose The Immortal Memory.

Andrew then gave an overview of the political, military and social state of Great Britain in general and England in particular during the latter half of the 18th century. This served as a prelude to Trevor's fine speech dealing not only with Trafalgar's significance but also Horatio Nelson's unique character. Hailing from Northern Ireland Trevor, pictured left, was able to bring some unusual and humorous highlights to his presentation which finished by him proposing the toast to The Immortal Memory.

Sir Edward du Cann was presented with a copy of 'A Life One up on the Ocean Wave' by Charles Saxby from Shipmate Raymond Naqvi on behalf of the author. Charles has dedicated his book to Sir Edward 'with respect' knowing that he is our President.
Raymond describes the work as a wonderful mixture of East End London 1950's nostalgia with colourful descriptions of the far flung outposts of the Commonwealth. This is a result of Charles's service on HMY Britannia sailing with Her Majesty in the early years of her reign. Thereafter he was a very valued member of The Royal Green Jackets Cadet Force in the East End. Now retired he and his wife Pat live in Essex where he is restoring a former jolly boat ex. Britannia.

Authoress Faith Mortimer pictured here with Sir Edward, our Chairman and Mike Hasney (with pipe) also presented Sir Edward with a copy of her novel 'The Crossing'. This work is 'a powerfully emotive tale based on a true incident and having an approach which is normally the preserve of male authors'. Faith has dedicated the book to the WW11 Royal Navy Coastal Forces.

 

Sir Edward addressed our company in his inimitable stirring fashion and kindly passed around a fascinating Nelsonian artefact for our inspection.

Full attention from shipmates and guests

2009 Episkopi Fete

The 2009 Sovereign Base Area Fete was held on Saturday the 19th September. We set up our stall before 0900 and were set to go in time for the opening at 1100.

Ready for anything!

The sale of books, DVDs, other sundries plus the popular bottle bran tub raised 440 euros for our charities. This was achieved despite a steadily rising wind (Force 8?) across the Happy Valley site which necessitated tougher guys and the possibility of taking in a reef on our gazebo! Fortunately we escaped the tornado weather which caused severe damage in Nicosia the previous day.

Bravo Zulu to all the workers and sincere thanks to all contributors.

Seen right: Ian Gould patiently stringing the bottles along!
 

A KNIGHT TO REMEMBER

49 Shipmates and guests attended our 2nd September meeting in the Episkopi Officers Mess. After our opening prayer led by S/M Reverend Eric Freeman our Chairman Andrew Noyes welcomed back S/M our Honorary Life Vice President Fred Cooper and his wife Norma. Fred had been unable to attend due to ill health for many months and it was wonderful to see him back in action. We took great pleasure in greeting many guests including Mr. Tony Hart of Pissouri and members of the RLC Association: Drew Elgeti, Colin Garland, Joe and Ingrid Johnston and Dave Neville. There was a special welcome for Sir Edward DuCann who was our speaker for the evening.

Andrew gave a resume of the Branch committee meeting on the 5th August and explained that the Branch now had some 75 members and a programme of events and social gatherings which shipmates appear to enjoy. He explained the rational behind the reduction of minutes; reminding shipmates that minutes copies for the AGM and Committee meetings are always available from the Secretary. A summary of each event is included on the Branch website. As our RN shipmate was absent our Chairman also updated our knowledge of current Fleet activities. Other committee members addressed the meeting; in particular regarding the forthcoming Episkopi Fete on the 19 Sep. and Trafalgar Night on the 21st.Oct.

After a second 'wet' and sandwiches we settled down to hear Sir Edward give us a fascinating account of his outstanding memories of 31years as a Member of Parliament for Taunton. He gave us an insight into aspects of Westminster which we do not hear much in the press; how many MPs really do work extremely hard to improve our country. In recalling the people in The House he mentioned in particular Sir Anthony Eden and Sir Alec Douglas Home. He described his closeness to Sir Edward Heath, Sir Harold Wilson and of course Baroness Margaret Thatcher whom he still sees.

A LOVE FOR CYPRUS 

The 8^th July meeting at Episkopi mess was graced by a talk from our guest Chrissie Flint who was a British forces Broadcasting service presenter having long standing connections with Cyprus. Her love affair with this island began many years ago, when, as a military wife she came here nine times in two years.

Chrissie started off her career as an assistant in Marks and Spencer but soon realised that her natural bent was towards journalism. Once living in Cyprus she wrote several articles for the Cyprus Lion and Cyprus Airways Magazine. Soon her name became known in radio circles when she was approached by the BFBS. In that organisation she was responsible for four or five interviews a week over ten years in 'A Taste for Cyprus' and other programmes.

Chrissie has also written a book on the Cyprus villages and countryside. She recommends many good visits and walks.

Now in the process of remarrying into a Cypriot family Chrissie is busy polishing up her Greek language. However she still finds time to work part time at Santa Marina Retreat as well as being active in the Rainbow Guides and Turtle Watch.

It was altogether very interesting presentation from a thoroughly nice lady.

In the course of the evening our shipmates welcomed two new shipmates. Ex-Royal Ron Jones (who, it is rumoured, had a hand in sorting out aspects of training a certain young RM Officer named Noyes) and Allan Hodgson who has a history of Merchant Marine and Army service.

Expatriate Games

As the gentle Cyprus summer evenings have arrived we thought it time to have a social Summer Supper. So on Wednesday 10th June we gathered in 'banyan rig' at the K.B. (Kyrenia Beach) taverna near Avdimou.

Mike Hasney pictured left kept a thoughtful eye on diners and Bill Hellier on the right sported a worryingly bright Thai silk shirt; it was a beauty he bought in Torquay. Definitely not from his slops list.

If you are a shipmate visiting Cyprus or a resident with an RN/RM background do get in touch with us. Come along and join our fun.

We know the good places to relax and eat. You will always be welcome.
 

MAY MISCELLANY

The May meeting, held at the Base Officer's Mess, Episkopi was a mixture of greeting old and new shipmates, updating items of interest and presentations. Branch shipmates were delighted to welcome back two lovely ladies. One was our senior Associate Shipmate, Sylvia Tooes, due to celebrate her 97th.Birthday on Friday 15th. May. She looks great. The other was Helen Hall, returned from the Caribbean for a summer visit. It was wonderful to see her in good form.

Notable guests Norma (pictured) and John Hudson visited the Branch. They live between Harrogate, Yorkshire and Arsos Village in Cyprus. Norma has written 'SOLE SURVIVOR', an account of her father Norman 'Geordie' Walton experiences after the sinking of HMS Neptune from Force K in 1941. Norman's diaries and letters were found by Norma in his 'ditty box' after he died in 2005. The evidence contained in those papers was so moving and graphic that Norma felt compelled to publish them in book form. The story is well worth reading and copies may be obtained from 'The Memoir Club' T: 00 44 1913735660 or contact hudsonagenciesnorma@hotmail.co.uk

After S/M Jonathan Birley whisked us into aspects of the modern RN using a 20 minute 26TV video film (designed to attract young people to the Service) we had a second 'wet' and sandwiches. Then the Reverend Canon Marvin Bamforth outlined the work on 'The Seafarers' Mission which he heads up from Limassol, Cyprus's main port. Marvin mentioned that some say 'the bigger the Canon the bigger the bore' but that was just not true on this occasion. The work of the mission began in Bristol in 1856 helping and comforting lonely merchant seamen. It is an Anglican Church outreach. 95% of global trade (from apples to Zyvania) is carried by sea so there is plenty to do.
Marvin oversees such tasks as helping mariners with contract problems plus welfare and justice matters; up to United Nations level! In all of this he has valued support from the shipping lines, both international and Cyprus based. In December he was called to attend onboard a tanker lying off Limassol. Unfortunately it was the day of one of the worst storms to hit Cyprus in recent years. Sadly the incident involved a death but the ship's officers and crew were very appreciative of The Seafarers Mission help.

The Mission can now provide merchant seamen with full electronic communication such as Skype from the Limassol Centre. A visit is paid to all ships in harbour at Christmas and gifts are distributed. Canon Bamforth is 'watch on stop on' while in Cyprus but has charitable work to do in Kinkesi, Uganda. While he is absent from the Island our own S/M Rev. Eric Freeman 'does a sub'.

S/M Sylvia with Andrew and Rev. Canon Marvin Bamforth.

 

A Pair of Padres? A Brace of Bishes or Bosuns (sin)?

Marvin and Eric - too good a picture to omit.
 

The Caribbean Beat!

Well it's been a couple of months since my last update and a lot has happened since then. After our spree of blaggings it all went quiet on the crime front for a short while, but regrettably it has got pretty ugly again over the last few days with a series of aggravated burglaries, sexual assaults and the murder of a 16 year old Haitian boy who was shot dead. Whereas before the crime did not really effect the more affluent residents, the ex-pats and tourists, the current upsurge most definitely has, with expensive residences in areas formerly untouched now becoming the targets. This has led to a massive outcry from enraged local worthies with calls for everything from the resignation of the Governor, the sacking of the Senior Management of the Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF), bringing in a Company of Royal Marines, setting up a volunteer militia, having Scotland Yard send out a full force of British Police Officers and many other weird and wonderful suggestions besides. My Blackberry has been glowing with the amount of phone calls, e-mails and texts I have received in the last few days and it doesn't look likely to settle down any time soon as we still haven't captured the thugs responsible. I am now doing my best to reassure people that the RT&CIPF is indeed doing it's upmost to get the situation under control, but I'm not sure anyone is listening to me. Rumour has it that this is now an issue under discussion in Whitehall, meanwhile I sleep with my trusty Glock 19 less than an arms length away!

The good news is that the flow of illegal migrants has slowed down. After a recent joint operation with our colleagues in the US Coast Guard where we intercepted a "sloop" with 181 illegal's onboard we haven't seen anymore sail vessels for a while. However they have now changed tactics on us and appear to be using a small fast boat, which doesn’t bring so many people but is harder to detect and intercept. So having just managed to squeeze some money out of our cash strapped budget to get a brand new state of the art radar fitted to one of the Police launches to improve our ability to detect "sloops", one of my Boat Captains then went and struck a reef and destroyed the port propeller on the same launch. My other launch is currently in the shipyard under repair after a similar incident a couple of months ago. It should have been repaired and back in the water within days, but all goodwill with regard to anything the Treasury is supposed to pay for is a thing of the past and it’s definitely cash not credit now. I have since produced a local form for investigation into maritime incidents based on the Royal Navy's Form S232 Report on Collisions and Groundings, what worries me is how often I may need it. The state of training here has always been one of my main concerns and fortunately the FCO has just appointed a Caribbean Overseas Territories (COT) Marine Training Co-ordinator to sort out the training problems of all the COT Marine Police Units, a long overdue need. I happen to know the man appointed, a former Royal Navy Officer, but the bad news is instead of coming straight out here to get a grip on the situation he is to conduct a 90 day study from the UK, talk about distance learning, but it probably saves the FCO a couple of dollars!

The USA has recently announced that it intends to deport a large number of illegal Haitians migrants and Haitians who have been convicted of criminal offences. The Haitian Gangs in the USA are a big problem, they are very well organized and very, very violent, they make MS 13, 18th Street, Cripps and Bloods look like Community Aid groups. These Gangs have already got a hold in the Bahamas and no prizes for guessing where they might come next. So on my way back to the TCI from the UK, see below, I'm stopping off in Miami to get some briefings and an up close and personal look at these Gangs with a couple of the local Law Enforcement Agencies. Should be fascinating and ties in nicely with my growing area of interest in illegal migration and its consequences. Incidentally I have been invited to give a presentation from a first hand practitioners perspective at a conference about Illegal Migration and Organised Crime at the International Police College in Germany later this year. I am also doing some very interesting work with the US Drugs Enforcement Administration (DEA) and have become very friendly with one of their Special Agents who, like me, enjoys the occasional libation!

On the political front we are still in a state of limbo here while we await the final report from Sir Robin Auld's Commission of Inquiry. Almost certainly the Constitution will be suspended and direct rule imposed from UK. What that means in reality is the Governor and a select group of advisors will run the country. The report should also indicate who/what should be subject to further investigation and possible criminal charges. A lot of people support these measures, but a few, notably the MP's who created this mess, do not and there are lots of cries of "Colonialism", "enslavement" and "loss of liberty", but in the end I think it will make little difference and hopefully all will pass off peacefully. However just to be safe I have brushed up on my Public Order training. !

So that's about it for the time being. One thing is for sure it's never dull here and I'm certainly never bored. Regardless of the problems which you really have to keep in perspective, it is after all a small place with a village mentality, it is still a beautiful place and a great holiday destination and I hope some of you will eventually make the trip out. My fondest regards to you all.

Yours Aye,
Policing the last, (latest?), outpost of Empire,
The Colonial Copper !

SHIPMATES HONOUR THE FALLEN OF THE CYPRUS EMERGENCY

SSAFA, SEA SCOUTS AND SOCIAL

Our April meeting held on the 8^th, as usual at the Base Officer's Mess, Episkopi was a great success. We were very heartened to hear that our good Shipmate and Honorary Vice President Fred Cooper has made a spectacular recovery from severe illness and we hope to see him at our meetings very soon. The resignation of our 100^th Shipmate Alison Kennedy from the post of Social Secretary was received with much appreciation of her tremendous contribution to the Branch over the last six years. We all hope that we will continue to see Alison and husband Brendan with their lovely daughters at meetings as often as they can come along. New shipmates Jack and Julie Philips from Peyia were welcomed into the Branch. Jack is an ex Royal and formerly belonged to the Eastney Branch of the RM Association.

At this time of year it is our custom to make a contribution to the Episkopi Sea Scout Group. So two Beaver Cub Scouts, Daniel Roberts (6) on the left and Logan Roberts (7) brought along their Group leader Brian Nicholle and assistant deputy leader Nicola Jones to receive our cheque from Chairman Andrew Noyes. Vice Chairman Ian Gould (right) told how he was impressed with the lads dedication and enthusiasm when he visited the Group hut a few weeks ago.

Wing Commander Nicholle described how the boys gained confidence in the Group. When a six year old goes to camp it may well be his first night away from his parents.

Daniel told us how he loved the games they play and Logan's favourite time was singing round the camp fire. Some of the boys regard a camping expedition to Dhekelia (100Km away) as a foreign trip! Our donation goes toward the purchase of new flags, flagpoles and training gear. Brian's overview of the Group's activities was comprehensive and impressive. Particularly so when we learned that two of the Cub Scouts had been given the Movement's Silver Award. That is a rare honour.

Our speaker for the evening was Mr. Rory O'Connor, the General Manager of SSAFA Forces Help in Cyprus. For those of us who remember those much respected and loved SSAFA Sisters in their grey uniforms his description of the modern services provided by SSAFA Forces Help was breathtaking. The organisation has come a very long way since the days when weighing and registering the Gibraltar Rock apes was part of the remit (do they still do that?).

SSAFA was founded in 1885 with a donation from a senior Army officer it being recognised that families often suffered if a serving husband was removed for duty elsewhere. A sea change occurred in recent years when The Ministry of Defence commenced the formation of Contracts with SSAFA to provide support services to the Armed Forces abroad. Resulting profits by the organisation are ploughed back into the Charity so that all parties benefit. This visionary approach has now been extended to the UK with SSAFA Forces Help now operating in Luton and Leicestershire. Selly Oak Hospital has also benefitted with accommodation for families of service personnel being provided.

Rory described the scope of the operation in Cyprus and Worldwide. SSAFA is present from Nepal to Canada and from Northern Ireland to Belize. Help is present for all who have given 1 day of service to the Crown. The areas of work are too numerous to list here but cover family support, midwifery, marriage counselling, family escort work, fostering and adoption, health visiting and more. These tasks are undertaken by both professional workers and volunteers.

The conclusion was that SSAFA Forces Help, like most charitable organisations is a major business, but in its own case specialises in doing a wonderful and essential job for our Servicemen, Servicewomen and their families.

MED. MONEY MATTERS

The March meeting of 2009 was held as usual in the Base Officer’s Mess at the Episkopi Sovereign Base Area on the 11th.

Our Chairman touched on his recent visit to Headquarters. He mentioned how the move to Semaphore Tower in the Portsmouth Base will put the Association closer to the working fleet thereby encouraging more modern RN/RM involvement and serving personnel recruitment.

Our Secretary described the visit of Paul Van Hees from the Belgium Branch. There is full coverage of that event below.

Happy news was received in that one of our Honorary Life Vice Presidents, Shipmate Fred Cooper, was reported as making good recovery after a great deal of ill health in the past year.

Our paid up membership so far this year is reported at 64.

Our Royal Navy representative Shipmate Jonathan Birley gave us an amusing and uplifting report on current events in the Service. He made us aware of the large Exercise 'Cyprus Wader' in our waters. Jonathan also mentioned local areas where relaxing Royals and Sailors might be encountered!

The gallantry rewards made to the Air/Sea Rescue unit at HMS GANNET gave us real pride. Shipmate Richard Hughes (RM) was even moved to show us, as near as possible in the meeting room, a brief demo. on the finer points of 'fast roping' and 'abseiling' from helicopters. Then our Chairman remembered how important it was not to land on one’s rifle! However after hearing that more than 13 Admirals were all at sea with FOST on one occasion we were thankful that we are now retired.

The speaker for the evening was Mr. St. John Coombes BA Hons. PFS. FAIQ, (pictured right) an Independent Financial Adviser. His subject was on how recent money and stock market moves have affected life in Cyprus. This was particularly close to our hearts as expatriates here have suffered a double whammy in both the Cyprus Pound conversion to the Euro at a disadvantageous rate last year and the loss of UK source income in the poor exchange rate. The result is a real loss in income of about 30% since last year.

However, St. John put over the facts in a humorous and clear fashion and so entertained us when we might have been depressed. In particular he underlined our good fortune in having an Armed Forces Pension and the low income tax rates in Cyprus (5% for pensioners). Also of great importance was the need for sound Wills in Cyprus and the UK. It is worth noting that although much Cyprus law is derived from England; that obtaining to Property is essentially based on old Ottoman law.

 

BELGIAN BRANCH GENEROSITY

We were pleased to welcome to Cyprus last week Shipmate Paul Van Hees, the Liaison Officer from the RNA Belgium Branch. This overseas branch, like us, has some 80 members, the majority of whom are retired RN together with retired international naval and military personnel with backgrounds in the many international institutions in Brussels.  It is ably run by their Chairman, Commander Gavin Short Royal Navy, a serving officer with the European Union Military Staff in Belgium, and by the rest of their committee, meeting at the Brussels Royal Yacht Club once a month excepting July and August.  They have four social lunches / dinners a year, with venues and menus organised by the Branch ladies.  Their highlight is the Trafalgar Lunch and at the last meeting they were honoured by a Spanish Admiral as their guest speaker and proposer of The Immortal Memory.

Paul had also asked if he could meet the local Sea Scouts as his Branch is particularly interested in motivating the youngsters and wished to make a donation towards their support. As the Scouts were holding their meeting that same afternoon, we went along to meet them all and to make a small presentation. This was most gratefully received by the boys who were totally in awe at their first sight of a €100 note. A formal thank you was given by the Sea Scout Group Chairman, Wing Cdr. Brian Nicolle and two representative Scouts, James Lloyd and Taylor Pope. This photo shows the boys holding a certificate brought from Belgium.
 

Paul Van Hees with the Sea Scouts and helming EUROPA in the 2006 Tall Ships Race   ------------->

'SOLDIER SOLDIER' REVISITED

On the 11th of February the Cyprus Branch meeting was, as customary, held at the Officer's Mess, Episkopi Sovereign Base Area. The meeting began in a sombre mood with the announcement of the death of Shipmate Freddie Humphreys two days earlier. Freddie was one of the first shipmates to join the branch within six months of its formation. Her funeral was held at St.Paul's Church RAF AKROTIRI on the morning of Friday 13th February.

After updates from the committee members and a stop for refreshments the meeting was presented with an overview of the history, structure and role in Cyprus since 2006, of the 2nd.Lancs.Battalion of the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment; the current incumbents at the Episkopi Garrison.

The shipmates were then invited to cross the car park and visit the Battalion officer's mess where they were shown a fantastic collection of regimental memorabilia and silver which Captain Arrandale described in detail and with some humour. Like sailors; soldiers regard some things with a healthy irreverence. For example the superb oil painting of a previous 'cross dressing' Colonel!

Everyone was very impressed by the history and traditions so obviously treasured by the battalion. We felt that, despite the difficulties faced by our military, we saw a facet of the British Army getting on with the job enthusiastically and efficiently. It was much appreciated.

Incidentally these mess buildings were the ones where scenes from the television series 'Soldier Soldier' were filmed.

- Our happy Shipmates 2009 -

"A Corner of a Foreign Field, in Cyprus" by Lt Col Andrew Noyes (Retd)

During the 1950s both 40 and 45 Commando Royal Marines were involved in operations during the Cyprus Emergency, which ran from 1955 to 1959. At the end of the Emergency, Cyprus was granted independence from the United Kingdom (but not as the terrorist organisation, EOKA, had fought for, union with Greece or "Enosis").  Cyprus today remains an independent country, albeit divided between the Greek Cypriot south and Turkish Republic north. Sadly, a total of 371 British Servicemen died on active service during the 1950s’ Cyprus Emergency, 28 of whom were members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.

The 50^th Anniversary of the end of the Cyprus Emergency on 20^th April 2009 saw some 110 representatives of the UK Armed Forces gather at the British Military Cemetery at Wayne's Keep, where those who died during the Emergency are buried.  The cemetery is now situated on the Peace Line between the Turkish North and Greek Cypriot South in Nicosia. The cemetery is well maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission but is sadly rarely visited because of its location in the Peace Line, a "no man's land"  zone controlled by the United Nations.

Former Royal Marines were prominent in the commemoration of the end of the Emergency. Along with the Deputy High Commissioner for Cyprus, I as President of the Royal British Legion for Cyprus, was privileged to lead the Act of Remembrance at the service and laid a wreath at Wayne's Keep Cemetery, ably assisted by the RNA Standard Bearer, former Marine Richard Hughes, who served for 9 years in the Corps before joining the Metropolitan Police. Needless to say, it was a moving service as we remembered those young men 50 plus years ago who died whilst serving during the Emergency, and the atmosphere was especially poignant as our acts of commemoration were observed by a Turkish Army Observation Post overlooking the Peace Line from the roof of an old Secondary School, unused as a place of learning since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974.

For those readers of the Globe and Laurel who served in the Cyprus during the 1950s Emergency, or who are related to those who died there, I can assure you that your fallen comrades or relations are still remembered fondly and most sincerely by those of us who now live in the island of Cyprus. And we will continue to remember them whilst we live in the island where they made the ultimate sacrifice.

 Details on the planned British Cyprus Memorial 2009 can be found at the website www.britishcyprusmemorial.org

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION AGM 2009

The Annual General Meeting of the Cyprus Branch of the Royal Naval Association was held at the Officer's Mess, Episkopi Sovereign Base Area at 1930 on Wednesday the 12th. January 2009.

Vice Chairman shipmate Andrew Noyes was elected to be Chairman for the year 2009 and shipmate Jean Hall was re-elected as Treasurer, Shipmate Ian Gould was elected Vice Chairman. The election of shipmates Nobby Hall and Fred Cooper as Honorary Life Vice Presidents was ratified. Shipmate Bill Hellier was elected as the new 'slops' member of the Committee in place of shipmate Nick Smith whose efforts have been much appreciated.

Immediately following on the AGM business the regular meeting of the Branch proceeded. Reports from the Committee Officers were received. New shipmate Richard and associate shipmate Wendy Mottershead were welcomed to the Branch. Richard is a Paphos business man involved with advertising and he generously pledged to keep the Cyprus Branch in the public’s eye at every opportunity.

The Branch also welcomed shipmate Tom Brown, Standard bearer of the Eastbourne RNA Branch. Tom remembers RN service in the Cyprus Patrol boardings out of Dekhelia and Famagusta in the 50's. It is always a great pleasure to meet shipmates visiting Cyprus so please get in touch with a view to attending our meetings.

Left: Tom (right) with host Mike Banks.

Our retired Chairman, Nobby Hall, sent us a 'Haul Down' report which was read to the assembled company and is reproduced in 'Archives' on our website together with a fine photograph of him with Helen. He wished us fair winds and following seas. Nobby and Helen were founders of the Cyprus Branch and with their departure to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force the last tie with the inception of the Branch is broken.

After our 'the other half' round of drinks and a table of delicious sandwiches shipmate Vivvy gave us a brief resume of the Branch's connections with the Sri Lankan Navy. She reminded us of their appreciation of our donations toward Tsunami relief and Tamil Tiger damage.

We look forward to a satisfying and fun filled 2009. Despite the poor performance of the pound sterling against the euro we are resolved to gather even more funds for our Charities.
 

RNA December Meeting  11/12/08

The Christmas meeting of the Cyprus Branch of Royal Naval Association was held on the 11^th December at the Sovereign Base Officer's Mess, Episkopi. After an update from committee members the shipmates chose from a table laden with all kinds of finger food including delicious mince pies and cakes at no cost other than to their waistlines!

Following the half time break Janet and Ian Gould showed a video tape on the Royal Navy of Yesteryear and so completed a very enjoyable evening's get together.

The next meeting on the 14^th of January will again be at the Mess at 1900 and will be the Annual General Meeting. Nominations for committee posts should be sent to the Secretary as soon as possible.

That evening will also include an update by shipmate Vivvy Simmonds on naval links with Sri Lanka.

RNA November Meeting

The November meeting of the Royal Naval Association was held in the Sovereign Base Area Officer's Mess, Episkopi on the evening of Thursday 13^th. Shipmates had shifted into winter rig for the first meeting of the cool season and appeared very smart!

Shipmate The Reverend Eric Freeman opened with a prayer for departed shipmates and a special remembrance for our two Royal Marines killed in Afghanistan the previous day.

Chairman Andrew Noyes led us into the business of the evening with a welcome to visitor Mark Telford and new joining members Gordon and Norma Redpath. This was followed by reports from the main officers.

After second 'wets' and sandwiches our guest for the evening Mr Mike Woods addressed us on the 'Black Box' recorders now being introduced into modern shipping. They are really red and are known as VDRs, voice data recorders.

He gave us a fascinating and sometimes hilarious account of the use and misuse of these devices which were introduced in the wake of the loss of the DERBYSHIRE with all hands. They are now a legal requirement for all vessels of at least 3000Tons. Maritime Law dictates that they be used as evidence in litigation. Sadly some nations, although signing up to the international standards, fail to initiate the proper use.

REMEMBRANCE DAY 2008

TRAFALGAR NIGHT 2008

The RNA Trafalgar night dinner was held at the Club Aphrodite, Erimi, on the 23rd of October. 57 Shipmates attended.

The Club Aphrodite

The Guests of Honour were our retiring Chairman Nobby Hall and his wife Helen. The other Guests of Honour were Mr. and Mrs Viney. Peter Viney retired from the manager's post in the Episkopi Garrison officer's Mess recently. All his help and hospitality to the Association was underlined by Nobby and recognised as deeply appreciated by everyone present. He oversaw the use of mess facilities by the RNA from the year of its inception. His provision of a meeting room and fine meals on special occasions like Trafalgar Night will always have the gratitude of the Cyprus Branch of the RNA.

Nobby went on to outline the formation of the Branch and gave a potted history of its growth before commenting on Nelson's life and then proposing the Immortal Memory.

All shipmates are aware of the tremendous drive which Nobby and Helen, as the Secretary in the early years, put into making the Cyprus Branch the success it is. As parting gifts Shipmate Andrew Noyes, our Chairman, presented Nobby with an engraved Armada Dish and Helen accepted a fine silver pill box. This produced the expected RN/RM quip from the shipmates!

                         Sir Edward du Cann addresses the Shipmates    (click on photo to enlarge)

In his inspiring style our President Sir Edward du Cann addressed the company reinforcing Nobby's thanks to Mr Viney and expressing the Shipmates debt to the Halls. He related how during a recent visit to England met young people belonging to the sea Cadets and how he was very impressed with their keenness and sense of patriotism.

The evening was a success despite the Branch not being able to hold the event in the Garrison officer's mess as in previous years due to rising costs.

RNA CYPRUS BRANCH ANNUAL REPORT 2008

2008 has been a year of consolidation and change for the RNA Cyprus Branch. The membership has consolidated from its original number of over 150 five years ago to around 55 members of the Branch by the end of the year. Our monthly meetings draw an average of around 40 members and, whilst therefore the Cyprus branch has reduced in size, this is as much a consolidation of core supporters who regularly attend Branch functions against a wider membership, many of whom were infrequent attenders.

Considerable effort and investment has been placed into advertising in local magazines and newspapers during the past year. The Publicity Officer has also established an excellent website detailing the Branch's history, an archive of past events, a photograph gallery, a useful contact list and a "scribe's caboosh" updating members on recent events. The website can be seen at www.rnacyprus.org.

Change in the Branch has occurred in two ways.  During the year we sadly bade farewell to the founder and Branch Chairman for the past 6 years, Shipmate Nobby Hall, and to his wife Helen, who was the first Secretary to the Branch when it began.  Nobby Hall is now the Assistant Commissioner of Police in the Turks and Caicos Islands.  As a result of our Chairman's departure Shipmate Andrew Noyes, the Vice Chairman, took over as acting Chairman of the Branch in August. A Royal Marines' officer of some 40 years standing, Andrew has recently been elected Chairman of the Cyprus Branch.

The other change has been the format of our monthly meetings. We have the privilege of being allowed to meet once a month in the Episcopi Officers' Mess where a bar is provided for members.  In addition to committee members' reports and a brief on the Navy Today by a serving Lt Cdr on the HQ BFC staff, we have this year introduced a guest speaker at our meetings. This has gone down well with members and topics have included an address by the Assistant Chief Constable of the SBA Police, a talk on Victim Support by SSAFA, a talk by a local Chairman of a Residents' Association and one on the Black Box found in Ships by a retired CPO Nuclear Submariner engineer.

In September the Branch successfully ran a stall at the Episcopi Garrison annual fete and raised over 700 Euros for the Branch accounts, the main attraction at the stall being a "pay and dip" competition for a bottle of wine or other donated beverage.  Meanwhile October saw the Branch celebrating Trafalgar Night at a formal dinner in a local sports and social Club where, in addition to toasting the "Immortal Memory", we also took the opportunity to dine out our past Chairman and his wife.  It was also a privilege to be joined by our President, Sir Edward Du Cann, on this occasion, along with some 60 others who thoroughly enjoyed both the dinner and after dinner speeches.

Overall 2008 has been a success for RNA Branch Cyprus, despite the apparent fall in membership, which all service associations in Cyprus are currently experiencing.  We enter 2009 with less members than before but, with a well designed publicity campaign planned, we intend to continue our current momentum into the following year.  The Committee is mindful, when planning events, that the majority of our members rely on UK pensions paid in £s Sterling whilst living a country which recently adopted the Euro, thereby effectively reducing our members’ purchasing power by some 30% due to the current poor exchange rate. Our future social events will reflect this new financial stringency but it is unlikely to affect the comradeship, unity and humour we see frequently displayed when a group of Matelots,  Marines, WRENs and other Naval Service supporters are gathered together, and this remains the very essence of RNA Branch Cyprus.

Andrew Noyes

RNA Cyprus Branch Chairman

Haul Down Report - 15th January 2009

Shipmates,

After six and a half years as your Chairman of the Cyprus Branch Royal Naval Association, albeit the last six months in absentia, the time has come for me to finally stand down. It is with mixed feelings that I do so. Sad because the Cyprus Branch RNA was my idea and as a Founder Member my inception, and I will miss all the Shipmates both past and present. Happy because I know the Branch is in good hands and will continue to thrive.

Over those six and half yrs there have been so many high points I cannot begin to touch on them all. Perhaps the best was becoming the second largest Overseas Branch, a position we held for a good while. Or was it the support we offered to those Serving Naval Personnel, both British and American during those busy days of the Second Gulf War. The wonderful Trafalgar Nights we have had, and other superb socials (in particular the ones hosted by Shipmates in their homes), the effort put into the Epi' Fete each year, the annual donation to the Sea Scouts and the turn out for the Happy Valley Service of Remembrance, all of these are things you can be justly proud of. My personal favorite moment must be the Trafalgar Night in 2003 when Captain, (now Commodore), Alistair Halliday entertained us all with his accordion, a most unusual and superb rendering of the Immortal Memory.

At this the AGM I wish all of those standing for office the best of luck. The Committee is truly the backbone of the Branch and it could never operate without it. All Committee Members are volunteers and willingly give of their time for the benefit of all the Shipmates, Bravo Zulu to all Committee Members past and present. Incidentally as Helen and I are the last two Founder Members and first Committee Members, with our departure there is no longer a link to the beginning of the Branch, a true historical moment. I would also take this opportunity to personally thank our President Shipmate Sir Edward for all that he has done for the Cyprus Branch, including personally telling the Second Sea Lord to provide us with a guest speaker for Trafalgar 200, which of course he did, would he dare to have done otherwise? Without you Sir Edward the Cyprus Branch would have no link to the wartime Royal Navy, so thank you and long may you continue to Preside.

Finally, (I can hear the sighs of relief from here), let me ask you all to take a moment and remember the motto of the RNA Unity, Loyalty, Patriotism, Comradeship if you can uphold those values in this ever changing world of ours you will not go far wrong. Whatever happens in the future you can be proud to have been a Member of the Royal Naval Association and in particular the Cyprus Branch!

So farewell then Cyprus Branch Royal Naval Association, on behalf of both Helen and I, may we wish you all Fair Winds and Following Seas. God Bless you all, have one for me and remember, keep your hands on your Euros if there are any Royal Marines around!

Yours Aye,

"Nobby"

Shipmate N J Hall

Chairman

PRESENTATION OF CHEQUE TO SEA SCOUTS

At their meeting on 17^th April the Cyprus Branch of the Royal Naval Association presented a cheque for 200 euros to the 57^th Troop of the Episkopi Sea Scouts. Scouts Daniel Marley and Ryan Murray accompanied by Scout Leader Jay O'Leary and Chairman Brian Nicholle are seen here receiving their gift from RNA Chairman Shipmate Nobby Hall.

Daniel and Ryan expressed their thanks. They gave the Branch shipmates a description of their activities throughout last year and their plans for the coming year; these are to include including an attempt to master Dragon Boat racing.

 The Scouts get a lot of fun out of leadership training and Nobby pointed out that they are a great example of well behaved modern youth.  

WW11 ARCTIC AWARDS FOR SHIPMATE

On the 8^th of February 2007 the Arctic Emblem was presented to Shipmate John Hale by Sir Edward Du Cann at the United Kingdom Citizens Club in Paphos. In addition John was awarded the 60^th Aniversary Commemoration Medal on behalf of the Russian Federation.

Mr Peter Millett, British High Commission was present as were Mr Savvas Vergas, Mayor of Paphos and representatives from the Paphos Police, the Cyprus Veterans Association, the Bishop of Cyprus, SSAFA and ex-service organisations. That so many dignitaries wished to attend is a measure of the high regard in which service such as John’s is held.

In 1943 John was a communications operator on the starboard 4inch guns of HMS Jamaica when she engaged the German battleship Scharnhorst in the Battle of North Cape. He remained in touch with old comrades through the Russian Convoy Club and the German survivors of the Scharnhorst until 2000 by which time both groups had disbanded. The HMS Jamaica Association still enables him to keep in touch with old shipmates.

<-----  John receives his awards.

'After a long break the Association gets back into the western Cyprus scene'  Sept 2008

You don't have to have first hand experience to have sympathy with the armed forces, all of Her Majesty's services are working for our protection and The Royal Navy is no exception.

It is believed that The British Royal Navy was formally created after the Union between England and Scotland in 1707 when the English Navy merged with the Royal Scots Navy, though the two began operating together from the time of the Union of the Crowns.

The English Navy had no defined moment of formation; it started out as a motley assortment of 'King's ships' during the Middle Ages and was only assembled when needed then dispersed as quickly as it was formed. It began to take shape as a standing Navy during the 16th century, and became a regular establishment during the wars of the 17th century.

The Navy grew considerably during the global struggle with France in 1690 and grew in force during the Napoleonic Wars, a time when the practice of fighting under sail was reaching its zenith. The next century of general peace saw considerable technological development, with sail giving way to steam and large shell-firing guns replacing the cannon. All this fuelled the race to construct bigger and better battleships. That race was prematurely ended as aircraft carriers and submarines came to the fore, and after the successes of World War Two.

The Royal Navy is the oldest of the British armed services (and is therefore known as the Senior Service). From the early 18th century to the middle of the 20th century, it was the largest and most powerful navy in the world, playing a key part in establishing the British Empire as the dominant power of the 19th and early 20th centuries. In World War II the Royal Navy operated almost 900 ships. During the Cold War it was transformed into a primarily anti-submarine force, hunting for Soviet submarines. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, its role for the 21st century has returned to focus on global expeditionary operations.

The Royal Navy is the second-largest navy of the NATO alliance, in terms of the combined displacement of its fleet, the U.S. Navy being the first. There are currently 90 commissioned ships in the Royal Navy, including aircraft carriers, nuclear submarines, mine counter-measures and patrol vessels. There is also the support of 17 vessels of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. The Royal Navy's ability to project power globally is considered second only to the United States Navy. The Royal Navy also has the second largest carrier fleet in the world, with two carriers of the Invincible class in service (HMS Ark Royal and HMS Illustrious).

The Royal Navy is a constituent component of the Naval Service, which also comprises the Royal Marines, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, Royal Naval Reserve and Royal Marines Reserve. The Royal Navy numbers 37,500 people of whom approximately 6,000 are in the Royal Marines.

The Royal Naval Association, which is a registered charity with full recognition by the Royal Navy, was founded to help ex-service members and their families to provide relief from conditions of need, hardship or distress. (There are many who have been severely traumatised or killed while defending the democracy of the country so we can live in freedom.)

Founded in 1954, membership is open to all serving and ex service men and their families. In addition, anyone who is in sympathy with the objectives of the association may join as an associate member. There are over 400 branches world wide with a membership exceeding 28,000.

Cyprus is no exception, with a steady military presence on the Island the RNA was founded in August 2002, having their first meeting in the Sergeants mess in Akrotiri. Now the meetings are held in the Garrison Officer's Mess, Episkopi and they are looking for new 'Shipmates' (there is no rank in the association.). With the emphasis being on FUN, they are looking for new ways to raise funds and all ideas are greatly welcomed. The charity is based on the ethics Unity, Loyalty, Patriotism & Comradeship, where ALL profits go directly to the people in need and is self funded. The money raised at the moment is finding its way to our troops coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan.

One function is the prestigious 'Trafalgar Night' Gala Dinner, while many other less formal functions or get-togethers can still raise plenty of funds. ''This is why we need new members with new ideas to keep the fund raising fresh'', says David May of the association, now retired and living in Kamares. 'We meet every 2nd Thursday in the month, with an annual subscription of only 17euros for the whole year, so we are looking for ex-service members or anyone with time to spend, who has sympathy with the cause, to come along to the meetings. We have interesting guest speakers, a bar, refreshments and a raffle every month. Members receive up-to-date reports on the association and functions. Currently there are over 130 members who meet in Episkopi. Since June 2003, Sir Edward DuCann KBE has been our Branch President, he also resides in Paphos.'

Take some time out to think about our men and women who put themselves on the front line in the face of danger, in the fight for our freedom. Without them, it would be a very different world in which we live.

Please contact, David May 26653323, Mike Hasney (Membership Sec.) 25934793 or Janet Brown-Gould (Hon Sec) 25314506.

Writer: Karen Roe.  Published in Cyprus Living magazine September 2008