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Association news and notices. 06/01/2012 - Email Scam. For all those members who may have received an email stating that Doug Dickason had been mugged in a Spanish Hotel car park and had lost everything except his passport, I can say that it is a SCAM. Please do not send any money to the Western Union address you may be given if you respond to the email. Doug has been on the phone to me and has asked me to tell you all that he is well and at home, it did not happen. His email address has been blocked by BT whilst they investigate and he will be in contact later. If anyone needs to speak to him and do not have his telephone number, then please contact me and if necessary will pass it on to you. Maurice Snook Hon. Sec. 05/01/2012 - Peter West 54A. It is with deepest regrets that I have to notify you of the death of an Association stalwart, Peter West 54A. Peter has finally succumbed to the cancer that has plagued him for a few years. He will be sorely missed for his sense of humour, his happy smiley disposition and his lesson reading. He died in hospital in Lincoln on Wednesday 4th January 2012. Our condolences are with his family. 15/12/2011 - Chtistmas Greetings from ABF The Soldiers Charity. A Christmas card has been received from the ABF - "At this time of year, when our thoughts are with British troops serving far from home, I just want to thank you for supporting our brave men and women. On behalf of all of us at ABF The Soldiers Charity, I wish you a safe and happy Christmas". Major General Sir Evelyn Webb-Carter KCVO OBE DL. Christmas card 12/12/2011 - Army Apprentices National Memorial. Please click this link to order a copy of the DVD showing the un-veiling ceremony of the Army Apprentices National Memorial on 7th September 2011. AANM website A brief preview can be found here. Ceremony preview 24/09/2011 - Attendees & Apologies for 2011 reunion. Please see this link for up to date list of those attending the 2011 reunion & apologies.Click here 19/09/2011 - The Harrogate Apprentice - Our Story, by Fred Carslake. As you may be aware the Army Apprentice Memorial was unveiled in a Dedication Ceremony on the 7th Sept 2011. The entire monument project was funded by kind donations and the sale of the commemorative tablets. We now need to raise a further £30,000 to give to the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) who will look after, insure and maintain our monument for the next 990 years, which is the time the lease on the land has left to run. Fred Carslake (Harrogate 57A) has recently published a book "The Harrogate Apprentice - Our Story" which is a collection of Harrogate ex-boy experiences. Fred has agreed to donate £300 towards the £30,000 required for the maintenance fund if sufficient copies are sold..The Harrogate Apprentice - Our Story 17/07/2011 - More Help required. Thanks to those who have already filled in Glenn's survey BUT he could do with some more in the next week. If you have 10 mins please simply click the link and answer. Link to Survey 03/07/2011 - Important 2011 Reunion news. The 'intending to attend' slips have not gone out with the next edition of the journal. Please go to the Reunion page and download a copy. Reunion web page 28/06/2011 - Help required for an Ex Apprentice. I am an ex-apprentice (89b Penney Sqn). I am out now and doing my BA(hons) in Criminal Justice. As part of this course I must complete 3 projects and I am currently undertaking my 2nd.The area of this project is educational provisions for serving and veteran personel. This is an extension to my first project Veterans who are subject to the Criminal Justice System: Reducing Reoffending. What I need to do as part of this second project is to circulate a questionnaire electronically around no more than 90 - 100 veterans there are no personal details involved. I have already received permission of my last Regiment (14 Sigs) to do the same. What this means is that if I can secure permission to do the same with a veterans or old boys association I will have sample results for both during and post service. The relevance of this project is that educational discrepancies have been shown to be a contributor to veterans failing in civilian employment, in turn this has been shown to be a precursor to criminality. I have chosen my last regiment for that reason (it was my last regiment), therefore in order to obtain accurate results I need to gain veteran results from veterans who were of the same trade groupings as the serving soldiers who will be answering the questions. It does not seem as if there are any log on procedures such as passwords needed. Simply click the link and answer. Link to Survey Kind Regards, Glenn Walker. 27/06/2011 - Remembrance Day Parade at Whitehall. Dear all. Any RSA member who would like a ticket to march with the Corps contingent at the Remembrance Day Parade at Whitehall on Sun 13 Nov 2011, should send their name, address and RSA LM No to Assn HQ. As supply should exceed demand, an early reply would be prudent. A reminder that entry is by ticket only and that those marching should be prepared to be standing in Whitehall for at least 1.5 hours prior to the march past, then marching for over 1 mile. 12/06/2011 - 'The HARROGATE Army Apprentice' book. Good news today I have just ordered the first print run of our book 'The Harrogate Army Apprentice' and I will be getting them early next week, so if you would like to submit your orders for them I will pop them in the post to you as soon as they arrive. I have seen the first copy and it looks absolutely fantastic. They are about the size of a phone book (200 pages) with an attractive soft laminated cover, the price being £15 plus £2 for post and packaging. If you would like to purchase a copy please send your cheque for £17 to me Fred Carslake at 29 Coopers Drive, Yate, Bristol BS37 7XZ. If you would like to purchase more than one copy just double up on that amount for each copy required as they will be sent out individually packed. (please PRINT your name and address) They will make a first class present to all your friends and relatives so they can see what you got up to in your younger life. Could you please cascade this information to all your Ex boy mates. Best wishes Fred Carslake 24/05/2011 - David Burnell 47B. Sadly another member of the Association has passed away. This email received from the Son of David Burnell - "Dear Sir, I am Emailing you to inform you the sad death of my father. He passed away on Sunday. I believe he is a member of the AOHA. I do not know his intake group but it was 1947 possibly C. Please can you pass the news on to any one who may have served with him. Regards Paul Burnell his son" 16/05/2011 - John Paterson 59A. It is with sadness that we have to announce the passing of John Paterson 59A C Company Royal Engineers on the 10th May 2011. His funeral service will take place on Monday 23rd May 2011 at 14:20 Hrs at Stonefall Crematorium Harrogate followed by drinks at The Empress Hotel on the Stray. For further information please email Fiona Bertenshaw (daughter) fiap69@sky.com or on her mobile 07817 900758. 20/03/2011 - Army Apprentice National Memorial. For details of the Dedication Dinner on 6th Sept 2011 and the Dedication Ceremony on 7th sept 2011 please click on this link -AANM Dedication 10/02/2011 - Fred Minay (53A) Sadly we have been informed of the passing away of 22845371 Fred Minay 53A. Fred was a stalwart of our reunion week-ends but sadly succumbed to the cancer he had been diagnosed with just after the 2009 reunion and passed away on 31st January 2011. His funeral will be on Thursday 17th February at 13:00 hrs at Chichester Crematorium, West Sussex 08/02/2011 - George (Taffy) Francis (53A) 22845320 George (Taffy) Francis was an apprentice at Harrogate, intake 53A. He sadly passed away on 3rd February after a long illness. After serving in the British Army for 8 years he emigrated to Australia. Here he joined the Australian Royal Engineers where he reached the rank of WO2. He will be sadly missed. Ilse Wilkinson (next of kin) 20/01/2011 - Paul Evans (57B) Sadly we have been informed today of the passing away of 23528564 Paul Evans 57B B Coy. Paul was living in Darlington and leaves behind a widow. His funeral was today 20th Jan 2011. 08/12/2010 - Geoff Randerson (49A) Unhappy news is that Geoff Randerson (49A) has suffered a stroke. Slightly better news is that he is recovering in hospital. It appears Geoff suffered the stroke on Remembrance Sunday. Reports from his wife Jean state that Geoff has some paralysis and limited speech. Our best wishes for a speedy recovery. 08/12/2010 - Remembrance Sunday 2011 If any members are interested in parading/marching at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday 2011 as part of a combined ex-Apprentice Contingent (Arborfield, Carlisle, Chepstow, Harrogate) please contact me. I have had contact from an ex-Carlisle apprentice who is prepared to organise it, but would like to know of any interest and numbers. Regards Maurice 26/10/2010 - Father Ted Chapman, RAEC P/S between 1955 - 1957 It is with sadness that we have to report the death of Father Ted Chapman, RAEC who served as a member of the P/S between 1955 - 1957. He was a regular attendee of the Reunion weekend. His funeral is to be held at St Nicholas Church, Dunnington, near York, on Friday 5th November at 1.45pm. 25/10/2010 - Army Apprentices School cap badges AAS cap badges 14/10/2010 - From Colin Weir Gentlemen, most of you will be aware that the Army Apprentice National Memorial is under construction and being made ready for dedication on the 7th Sept. 2011. The AANM is a registered charity, and all ex apprentices are members with no forms to complete or fees to pay. We can also assist ex apprentices who are in distress. Alf Robbins and myself are organising a dinner to coincide with Armed Forces Day in 2011. This will be on Friday the 24th June 2011 at the Adelphi Hotel Liverpool. Both of us have arranged mini meets for our group 55A for a number of years in the city, and due to the 2008 Year of Culture it is still in its shining armour. Please support us in this venture; all proceeds will go to the AANM. This is an ideal time to create mini meets with your mates, the city is full of places of interest, and is second only to London with listed buildings, then we have theatres, museums, art galleries, the largest British Anglican Cathedral along with Paddys Wigwam, Scousers affectionate term for the Catholic Cathedral due to its design, the superb St. Georges Hall and Town Hall. For the engineer we have in Birkenhead a recovered German U Boat from WW11, split into four sections for easy viewing, or a tour of the workings of the Mersey Tunnels, (yes, we have two) or the Williamson Tunnels. We can assist and advise if you want to make your visit stretch over a few days, well worth giving some serious thought to. Merseyside has its own electric railway, Merseyrail, and I might proudly add, the most efficient in the Country, that stretches to Southport in the north and then down to Chester. We have golf courses by the hatful, from inland to links, with two international ones Royal Birkdale (Southport) and Royal Liverpool (Hoylake) all served by train. Have we sold the idea to you? I hope so. We would like your replies to be with us by the 31st Dec 2010. chepchappy@btinternet.comin order for all of the necessary arrangements to be made. Use the same email address for any help you need. 14/10/2010 - The Army Apprentice National Memorial From Gordon G Bonner HON Sec AANM - thought your Members might wish to see the minutes of the AGM held on 7 Sept 2010, AANM minutes 07/09/2010 wherein we amended the constitution. The minutes are post dated to 1 Dec because I cannot get the hard copy signed for the records until our next meeting on 1 Dec 2010.If your members wish to read the new constitution visit http://www.armyapprenticememorial.org.uk 07/09/2010 - List of members registered to attend 2010 reunion AGM 2010 Attendees 22/08/2010 - The Army Apprentice National Memorial The AANM project recently applied to the Charity Commission for registration as a charity. However, the Commission has advised that changes are needed to our Constitution. To amend the Constitution requires a General Meeting to be held with 14 days notice given on the AANM Website. The current Constitution is posted on the website http://www.armyapprenticememorial.org.uk Therefore, a General Meeting will be held at the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas at 13.00 on Tuesday 7th September 2010 (meeting room in main building). The General Meeting will immediately precede an AANM Steering Committee meeting and is expected to last for a few minutes only. All ex-apprentices may attend the General Meeting. Best regards. Dave Chapman, Chair AANM Project 27/07/2010 - Roy Coddington 49B funeral details The funeral of Roy Coddington will take place Tuesday 10th August, 11am at Durham Crematorium and afterwards at Mount Oswald Golf Club. Family flowers only. Donations if desired to "Help for Heroes" charity via Stuart Wright Funeral Services Ltd, 23 Marshall Terrace, Gilsgate, Durham City, DH1 2HX, Tel. 0191-3863850 26/07/2010 - Roy Coddington 49B I regret to announce the sudden death of Roy Coddington (intake 49B) on 25th July 2010. We are aware of his support of the Association of Harrogate Apprentices and have found many mementos of his time as an apprentice and at association reunions. Could we request any information on his army career that could be included in the funeral service. Please e mail Celia & Victoria at garywatson23@googlemail.com Details of funeral arrangements will be forwarded to this web site. 12/07/2010 - Danny Hay 49A(?) I regret to announce the death of Danny Hay (intake 49A I believe) on 22 June this year. Danny trained as a Radio tech and finished his career as a Forman of Signals. Further info if required from Colin Smith 51B at colin.smith80@ntlworld.com 21/06/2010 - Terry Corbett 54B It is with great sadness that we have to report the sudden death of Terry Corbett 54B on Tuesday 15th June 2010. He was a keen supporter of the association and he and his "pony-tail" will be sadly missed at future reunions. We have no further details at the moment. 06/04/2010 - chaps from 57A Some time ago you put an entry on our website with a request for members of 57A to get in touch with me and although I never did hear from any in the UK I have just heard from one that lives in Cape Town in South Africa which just proves the value of the web. Is it possible for you to put another one in for me please this time asking for Jock Emery, Ray Meddlycott, Fred Neely and Dave Johnston once again they were all in 57A. although Dave Johnson was relegated and passed out as the boy RSM of 57B.Thanks for all you help.Best Wishes, Fred Carslake 04/03/2010 - Peter Lunson My name is Alan Cook, I am an ex apprentice from Arborfield 60B. I would like to inform you of the passing of my brother in law,Peter Lunson. His intake would have been around 59C at Harrogate. This is a belated piece of information as I have only just found your web site. Peter died after suffering a brain haemorrhage in 1998,he was 54 years old. I inform you of this as I know that we products of the Army Apprentice Schools system have many memories of those young men that we started our adult life with. Please share this sad information with others on your website. Alan Cook Sorrento, BC. Canada 04/03/2010 - Robert Henderson 53B I am trying to locate Robert (Bob) Henderson 53B, a very good friend. Bob married Avril and went on to have 4 sons. Unfortunately we lost contact when Bob was on his C of W (Construction) Course at Chatham in 1967. I was just finishing my C of W (Electrical) course. I would appreciate any information that any members of the AOHA might have to help me locate an old friend. Jim(Joe) Talbot 22967589 53B 04/03/2010 - Royal Signals Memorial DVD A DVD showing 22 of the Corps related memorials at the National Memorial Arboretum is now available. The DVD also includes shots of the Armed Forces Memorial, the dedication of the Corps Memorial in May 2008 and a map of the site. Cost is Â£5.00 plus 50p each for p&p. Cheques payable to "PF & M Soward" to:- Pat Soward, "Shipton", The Hollow, Child Okeford, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8EX. All profits to be shared between the Air Formation Signals Assn and the Royal Signals Benevolent Fund. 25/01/2010 - Bill Pratt - Draughtsman 49b - A Coy Sad to report that Bill Pratt died on Thursday 21 Jan in the Medway Hospital. This comes as a great shock to all who knew him and saw him at the reunion last October. More news as I get it. Allen Buckeridge 49b. 22/01/2010 - Bernie Meehan 1968/69 This is a shot in the dark. Bernie Meehan joined the Corps as an apprentice at Harrogate around 68/69 and graduated as a RTg in 72. His first posting was to Delta Troop, 22 Sigs. He went on to serve in a variety of postings, which included a total of 10 years with 14 Sigs (EW) before going on the Long Service List as a SQMS with a Sqn in Manchester. He is currently due to be medially discharged around April. He lives in St Helens with Wendy and family. Last year Bernie suffered a severe stroke that almost cost his life, but he pulled through, but is almost blind. Bernie has had few interests in life, as the Army was/is his life. They have just registered with St Dunstan's and is having meetings with them shortly. Hopefully they will be able to suggest ways to assist him getting some sort of quality of life, however, in the meanwhile, Bernie is in a dark place. Wendy his wife tells me 'Bernie is so uplifted when he hears from someone in the Corp he has known over the years and it makes such a difference to his day'. If you knew/met Bernie during your career, would you consider taking the time out to give him a call, send him an email or contact him via facebook or even better, pop in and see him? He has had very few people contact him, particularly when you consider how long he has been in the Army. I have spoken to him at length and I can assure you that a telephone call to him will not be a cringer, he does not feel sorry for himself, nor does he focus on poor health. Contact details are Tel: 01744 733132 (suggest you phone for address and arrange time if you wish to visit him) or email to wendym_6@hotmail.com Perhaps you don't know or have never met Bernie. Can I ask that you pass this request on to anyone who may have served with him. Any contact will make his day and it is little to ask when you consider his current circumstances. Maurice 17/12/2009 -Fred Minay 53A Sadly news has reached us that Fred Minay 53A has been taken ill, further details can be obtained from the Honorable Secretary. maurice@snook60.freeserve.co.uk 25/11/2009 - Email scams Some scam emails (always after your money) now mention a connection to the RSA (or other service assn) and may have your name on them. DO NOT reply to these (even to tell them to "xxxxxx off"), as once the sender has confirmation of your Email address, you may be targetted with even more junk mail. Any email from the RSA will always ends with 'mod.uk'. See http://whatconsumer.co.uk/brainwashed-powerless/ for more information. If you receive an e-mail that contains something that is either outrageous (i.e. Starbucks refusing to send coffee to US Marines in Iraq) or too good to be true (i.e. Samsung giving away free laptops) check out http://www.hoax-slayer.com/. If it is on the list of hoaxes, send the hoax slayer link to the senders so that they can be educated not to forward such e-mails. This also applies to Emails that state something like- "do not open any Email from so and so(name), as he is a hacker". Instead of merely passing it on as instructed, check with hoax slayer. 25/11/2009 - AGM group photos We have 88 faces and 80 names, for the 2007 photo and we have 85 faces and 76 names for the 2009 photo. If members would like to order either or both of these photo's, with or without the names, please contact the hon.secretary by email maurice@snook60.freeserve.co.uk 28/10/2009 - Looking for Mervyn Abbott My name is Chris Yates, I am a Beachley Old Boy 64C trying to contact an old school friend of mine who went to Harrogate. His name is Mervyn Abbott and I am quite sure that he was 64B. We attended the Colonel Frank Seely Sec. Modern at Galverton in Nottingham, we were also in the Army Cadets (Notts ACF - Southwell) together. The last I heard of Mervyn was that he was living in the Andover area, I do not know what his trade was but I do remember it was Royal Signals. If Mervyn Abbott reads this or any one knows of his whereabouts please email any details to the Hon Sec at maurice@snook60.freeserve.co.uk 15/10/2009 - Closure of BFPO's in BAOR It is reported that it is the MoD’s intention to close the BFPO service in BAOR in Sep 2010. There is a petition to the PM at:- http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/SaveBFPO/ calling for the closure to be cancelled. This petition was supported by the recent meeting of the RSA Central Committee. The Chairman RSA felt that the MoDÂs plan was rather premature, as numerous service families in BAOR are still dependant upon their BFPO. It is asked that, if your members feel inclined, they support the petition. Yours, Peter Note from 'Steve' Stephenson - 49B My request for an Army Apprentices School shoulder title in the July 2009 Journal was instantly successful. The donor was Chris Garratt of one of the 1958 intakes. Chris very generously gave me his "spare" and as he didn't request payment I have made a donation to AOHA funds. I am concerned that some of my old pals from 49B might still be tottering about in their attics, and rummaging through their old kit bags looking for them; so I would be grateful if you will let any of the IT literate who are capable of 'tuning-in' to the AOHA website, know that the search is off. Crystal sets and semaphore flags were still in use for contact with the outside world during our time at "Penny Pot Lane" and (other than the B Company boys) there may not be too many of my vintage logging on. I am still some way behind modern methods of comms; but, with a little local assistance, I managed to access the AOHA website a couple of days ago. It brought back many happy memories and it was great to see 'Tara' and the old 'spider' accommodation. Happy days! Many thanks for your help. 'Steve' Stephenson 01/06/2009 - Request for Information Sgt. Frederick Backley Band Leader 1st Batt. Royal Ins. Fusiliers I enclose a request for service details form duly completed regarding my Uncle Frederick who died in 1959. I require this information for my family history research. I do know that my uncle was to play at the Royal Tournament in 1959, but unfortunately died a couple of weeks beforehand, in fact, I think he was going to play a piece of music he composed himself. We have never heard this piece of music, so I would be grateful if you could let me know who I could contact to get a copy of it. The only details I have are that he was in the Army Apprentices School, Harrogate, Yorkshire and died on 15th May, 1959 at Medical Reception Hildebrand Barrack, Killinghall, Harrogate. Doreen Jones (Mrs) Nee Backley Anyone able to assist please contact the Honorary Treasure john.jones49@btinternet.com or myself webmaster@theharrogateapprentice.co.uk 16/05/2009 - Request for information I wonder if you,or someone in the Association would know if records exist of track & field athletics meetings held at Penny Pot Lane. I am researching my athletics career and trying to document all the competitions i took part in. As a member of a Leeds City Athletic Club team,i remember coming over a few times and competing against the Army Apprentices. The club took part in this this annual event for a number of years,certainly throughout the seventies and into the early eighties. There are a couple of dates i have from old athletic club fixture lists which are 12/07/76 & 11/07/77 Any results archive or such like would be of great interest to me and probably the athletic club too. Thanks Steve Linsell (Leeds City A C) Jumperman@talktalk.net 24/01/2009 Just for the record, and to up-date previous messages re 54B, thanks to this site I have re-established contact with Pete Gray, who now lives in Scotland. However, still not found any trace of Dixon. Incidentally, seeing various photos on this site, I am prompted to wonder whether Mick Gowlett, another former colleague in HQ, is still in touch with old Harrogate colleagues. Mick was very pally with a lad called Arnold (surname), who subsequently went to the RASC with the clerks. I might also mention that a few years ago I did try to locate our old HQ boy sgt George Ient, who later returned to B Co. I did find an address in Eastbourne, but my letters went unanswered --maybe it was the wrong address. Best wishes for 2009 to everyone! Keith Farnsworth 18/12/2008 Re "Some lads of B co 54B just before pass off 1957" in the photos section. Just to add to the picture collection, here is a photo I have just rediscovered. I took it when I went back to Harrogate in 1957 for the 54B passing out parade. I was very early getting there, and the lads in B Co are pictured having abit of light fun before the job of getting ready for the big parade. I think Corbett is the lad on the ground, and of the others I recognise Derbyshire, Bartlett and my old pal Dixon. If any of these lads recognise themselves and want me to send them a copy of the picture, they have only to get in touch. Best wishes. Keith Farnsworth 54B 17/10/2008 Meassage from Keith Farnsworth 54B ---"I was at the AAS at Harrogate only for a short time in 1954-5, before moving with the clerks to Blackdown, I would love to get a message on some message board in the hope of finding two old pals from 54B --Peter Gray (he came from Kent), and "Weasel" Dixon (he was from Doncaster). In the case of "Weasel" Dixon, it is all so long ago that I have forgotten his Christian name, but he was a tall slim lad. I have a pix of group of lads who were with me in HQ. Lads like Arnold, Christmas, Foskett, etc. George Ient was our boy sgt. I have tried many times over the years to find Gray and especially Dixon. but without success." *If you have any information please contact the Honorary Secretary*

Association news and notices.

06/01/2012 - Email Scam.

For all those members who may have received an email stating that Doug Dickason had been mugged in a Spanish Hotel car park and had lost everything except his passport, I can say that it is a SCAM. Please do not send any money to the Western Union address you may be given if you respond to the email. Doug has been on the phone to me and has asked me to tell you all that he is well and at home, it did not happen. His email address has been blocked by BT whilst they investigate and he will be in contact later. If anyone needs to speak to him and do not have his telephone number, then please contact me and if necessary will pass it on to you. Maurice Snook Hon. Sec.

05/01/2012 - Peter West 54A.

It is with deepest regrets that I have to notify you of the death of an Association stalwart, Peter West 54A. Peter has finally succumbed to the cancer that has plagued him for a few years. He will be sorely missed for his sense of humour, his happy smiley disposition and his lesson reading. He died in hospital in Lincoln on Wednesday 4th January 2012. Our condolences are with his family.

15/12/2011 - Chtistmas Greetings from ABF The Soldiers Charity.

A Christmas card has been received from the ABF - "At this time of year, when our thoughts are with British troops serving far from home, I just want to thank you for supporting our brave men and women. On behalf of all of us at ABF The Soldiers Charity, I wish you a safe and happy Christmas". Major General Sir Evelyn Webb-Carter KCVO OBE DL. Christmas card

12/12/2011 - Army Apprentices National Memorial.

Please click this link to order a copy of the DVD showing the un-veiling ceremony of the Army Apprentices National Memorial on 7th September 2011. AANM website

A brief preview can be found here. Ceremony preview

24/09/2011 - Attendees & Apologies for 2011 reunion.

Please see this link for up to date list of those attending the 2011 reunion & apologies.Click here

19/09/2011 - The Harrogate Apprentice - Our Story, by Fred Carslake.

As you may be aware the Army Apprentice Memorial was unveiled in a Dedication Ceremony on the 7th Sept 2011. The entire monument project was funded by kind donations and the sale of the commemorative tablets. We now need to raise a further £30,000 to give to the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) who will look after, insure and maintain our monument for the next 990 years, which is the time the lease on the land has left to run. Fred Carslake (Harrogate 57A) has recently published a book "The Harrogate Apprentice - Our Story" which is a collection of Harrogate ex-boy experiences. Fred has agreed to donate £300 towards the £30,000 required for the maintenance fund if sufficient copies are sold..The Harrogate Apprentice - Our Story

17/07/2011 - More Help required.

Thanks to those who have already filled in Glenn's survey BUT he could do with some more in the next week. If you have 10 mins please simply click the link and answer. Link to Survey

03/07/2011 - Important 2011 Reunion news.

The 'intending to attend' slips have not gone out with the next edition of the journal. Please go to the Reunion page and download a copy. Reunion web page

28/06/2011 - Help required for an Ex Apprentice.

I am an ex-apprentice (89b Penney Sqn). I am out now and doing my BA(hons) in Criminal Justice. As part of this course I must complete 3 projects and I am currently undertaking my 2nd.The area of this project is educational provisions for serving and veteran personel. This is an extension to my first project Veterans who are subject to the Criminal Justice System: Reducing Reoffending. What I need to do as part of this second project is to circulate a questionnaire electronically around no more than 90 - 100 veterans there are no personal details involved. I have already received permission of my last Regiment (14 Sigs) to do the same. What this means is that if I can secure permission to do the same with a veterans or old boys association I will have sample results for both during and post service. The relevance of this project is that educational discrepancies have been shown to be a contributor to veterans failing in civilian employment, in turn this has been shown to be a precursor to criminality. I have chosen my last regiment for that reason (it was my last regiment), therefore in order to obtain accurate results I need to gain veteran results from veterans who were of the same trade groupings as the serving soldiers who will be answering the questions. It does not seem as if there are any log on procedures such as passwords needed. Simply click the link and answer. Link to Survey Kind Regards, Glenn Walker.

27/06/2011 - Remembrance Day Parade at Whitehall.

Dear all. Any RSA member who would like a ticket to march with the Corps contingent at the Remembrance Day Parade at Whitehall on Sun 13 Nov 2011, should send their name, address and RSA LM No to Assn HQ. As supply should exceed demand, an early reply would be prudent. A reminder that entry is by ticket only and that those marching should be prepared to be standing in Whitehall for at least 1.5 hours prior to the march past, then marching for over 1 mile.

12/06/2011 - 'The HARROGATE Army Apprentice' book.

Good news today I have just ordered the first print run of our book 'The Harrogate Army Apprentice' and I will be getting them early next week, so if you would like to submit your orders for them I will pop them in the post to you as soon as they arrive. I have seen the first copy and it looks absolutely fantastic. They are about the size of a phone book (200 pages) with an attractive soft laminated cover, the price being £15 plus £2 for post and packaging. If you would like to purchase a copy please send your cheque for £17 to me Fred Carslake at 29 Coopers Drive, Yate, Bristol BS37 7XZ. If you would like to purchase more than one copy just double up on that amount for each copy required as they will be sent out individually packed. (please PRINT your name and address) They will make a first class present to all your friends and relatives so they can see what you got up to in your younger life. Could you please cascade this information to all your Ex boy mates. Best wishes Fred Carslake

24/05/2011 - David Burnell 47B.

Sadly another member of the Association has passed away. This email received from the Son of David Burnell - "Dear Sir, I am Emailing you to inform you the sad death of my father. He passed away on Sunday. I believe he is a member of the AOHA. I do not know his intake group but it was 1947 possibly C. Please can you pass the news on to any one who may have served with him. Regards Paul Burnell his son"

16/05/2011 - John Paterson 59A.

It is with sadness that we have to announce the passing of John Paterson 59A C Company Royal Engineers on the 10th May 2011. His funeral service will take place on Monday 23rd May 2011 at 14:20 Hrs at Stonefall Crematorium Harrogate followed by drinks at The Empress Hotel on the Stray. For further information please email Fiona Bertenshaw (daughter) fiap69@sky.com or on her mobile 07817 900758.

20/03/2011 - Army Apprentice National Memorial.

For details of the Dedication Dinner on 6th Sept 2011 and the Dedication Ceremony on 7th sept 2011 please click on this link -AANM Dedication

10/02/2011 - Fred Minay (53A)

Sadly we have been informed of the passing away of 22845371 Fred Minay 53A. Fred was a stalwart of our reunion week-ends but sadly succumbed to the cancer he had been diagnosed with just after the 2009 reunion and passed away on 31st January 2011. His funeral will be on Thursday 17th February at 13:00 hrs at Chichester Crematorium, West Sussex

08/02/2011 - George (Taffy) Francis (53A)

22845320 George (Taffy) Francis was an apprentice at Harrogate, intake 53A. He sadly passed away on 3rd February after a long illness. After serving in the British Army for 8 years he emigrated to Australia. Here he joined the Australian Royal Engineers where he reached the rank of WO2. He will be sadly missed.

Ilse Wilkinson (next of kin)

20/01/2011 - Paul Evans (57B)

Sadly we have been informed today of the passing away of 23528564 Paul Evans 57B B Coy. Paul was living in Darlington and leaves behind a widow. His funeral was today 20th Jan 2011.

08/12/2010 - Geoff Randerson (49A)

Unhappy news is that Geoff Randerson (49A) has suffered a stroke. Slightly better news is that he is recovering in hospital. It appears Geoff suffered the stroke on Remembrance Sunday. Reports from his wife Jean state that Geoff has some paralysis and limited speech. Our best wishes for a speedy recovery.

08/12/2010 - Remembrance Sunday 2011

If any members are interested in parading/marching at the Cenotaph on Remembrance Sunday 2011 as part of a combined ex-Apprentice Contingent (Arborfield, Carlisle, Chepstow, Harrogate) please contact me. I have had contact from an ex-Carlisle apprentice who is prepared to organise it, but would like to know of any interest and numbers. Regards Maurice

26/10/2010 - Father Ted Chapman, RAEC P/S between 1955 - 1957

It is with sadness that we have to report the death of Father Ted Chapman, RAEC who served as a member of the P/S between 1955 - 1957. He was a regular attendee of the Reunion weekend. His funeral is to be held at St Nicholas Church, Dunnington, near York, on Friday 5th November at 1.45pm.

25/10/2010 - Army Apprentices School cap badges

AAS cap badges

14/10/2010 - From Colin Weir

Gentlemen, most of you will be aware that the Army Apprentice National Memorial is under construction and being made ready for dedication on the 7th Sept. 2011. The AANM is a registered charity, and all ex apprentices are members with no forms to complete or fees to pay. We can also assist ex apprentices who are in distress. Alf Robbins and myself are organising a dinner to coincide with Armed Forces Day in 2011. This will be on Friday the 24th June 2011 at the Adelphi Hotel Liverpool. Both of us have arranged mini meets for our group 55A for a number of years in the city, and due to the 2008 Year of Culture it is still in its shining armour. Please support us in this venture; all proceeds will go to the AANM. This is an ideal time to create mini meets with your mates, the city is full of places of interest, and is second only to London with listed buildings, then we have theatres, museums, art galleries, the largest British Anglican Cathedral along with Paddys Wigwam, Scousers affectionate term for the Catholic Cathedral due to its design, the superb St. Georges Hall and Town Hall. For the engineer we have in Birkenhead a recovered German U Boat from WW11, split into four sections for easy viewing, or a tour of the workings of the Mersey Tunnels, (yes, we have two) or the Williamson Tunnels. We can assist and advise if you want to make your visit stretch over a few days, well worth giving some serious thought to. Merseyside has its own electric railway, Merseyrail, and I might proudly add, the most efficient in the Country, that stretches to Southport in the north and then down to Chester. We have golf courses by the hatful, from inland to links, with two international ones Royal Birkdale (Southport) and Royal Liverpool (Hoylake) all served by train. Have we sold the idea to you? I hope so. We would like your replies to be with us by the 31st Dec 2010. chepchappy@btinternet.comin order for all of the necessary arrangements to be made. Use the same email address for any help you need.

14/10/2010 - The Army Apprentice National Memorial

From Gordon G Bonner HON Sec AANM - thought your Members might wish to see the minutes of the AGM held on 7 Sept 2010, AANM minutes 07/09/2010 wherein we amended the constitution. The minutes are post dated to 1 Dec because I cannot get the hard copy signed for the records until our next meeting on 1 Dec 2010.If your members wish to read the new constitution visit http://www.armyapprenticememorial.org.uk

07/09/2010 - List of members registered to attend 2010 reunion

AGM 2010 Attendees

22/08/2010 - The Army Apprentice National Memorial

The AANM project recently applied to the Charity Commission for registration as a charity. However, the Commission has advised that changes are needed to our Constitution. To amend the Constitution requires a General Meeting to be held with 14 days notice given on the AANM Website. The current Constitution is posted on the website http://www.armyapprenticememorial.org.uk

Therefore, a General Meeting will be held at the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas at 13.00 on Tuesday 7th September 2010 (meeting room in main building). The General Meeting will immediately precede an AANM Steering Committee meeting and is expected to last for a few minutes only. All ex-apprentices may attend the General Meeting. Best regards. Dave Chapman, Chair AANM Project

27/07/2010 - Roy Coddington 49B funeral details

The funeral of Roy Coddington will take place Tuesday 10th August, 11am at Durham Crematorium and afterwards at Mount Oswald Golf Club. Family flowers only. Donations if desired to "Help for Heroes" charity via Stuart Wright Funeral Services Ltd, 23 Marshall Terrace, Gilsgate, Durham City, DH1 2HX, Tel. 0191-3863850

26/07/2010 - Roy Coddington 49B

I regret to announce the sudden death of Roy Coddington (intake 49B) on 25th July 2010. We are aware of his support of the Association of Harrogate Apprentices and have found many mementos of his time as an apprentice and at association reunions. Could we request any information on his army career that could be included in the funeral service. Please e mail Celia & Victoria at garywatson23@googlemail.com Details of funeral arrangements will be forwarded to this web site.

12/07/2010 - Danny Hay 49A(?)

I regret to announce the death of Danny Hay (intake 49A I believe) on 22 June this year. Danny trained as a Radio tech and finished his career as a Forman of Signals. Further info if required from Colin Smith 51B at colin.smith80@ntlworld.com

21/06/2010 - Terry Corbett 54B

It is with great sadness that we have to report the sudden death of Terry Corbett 54B on Tuesday 15th June 2010. He was a keen supporter of the association and he and his "pony-tail" will be sadly missed at future reunions. We have no further details at the moment.

06/04/2010 - chaps from 57A

Some time ago you put an entry on our website with a request for members of 57A to get in touch with me and although I never did hear from any in the UK I have just heard from one that lives in Cape Town in South Africa which just proves the value of the web. Is it possible for you to put another one in for me please this time asking for Jock Emery, Ray Meddlycott, Fred Neely and Dave Johnston once again they were all in 57A. although Dave Johnson was relegated and passed out as the boy RSM of 57B.Thanks for all you help.Best Wishes, Fred Carslake

04/03/2010 - Peter Lunson

My name is Alan Cook, I am an ex apprentice from Arborfield 60B. I would like to inform you of the passing of my brother in law,Peter Lunson. His intake would have been around 59C at Harrogate. This is a belated piece of information as I have only just found your web site. Peter died after suffering a brain haemorrhage in 1998,he was 54 years old. I inform you of this as I know that we products of the Army Apprentice Schools system have many memories of those young men that we started our adult life with. Please share this sad information with others on your website. Alan Cook Sorrento, BC. Canada

04/03/2010 - Robert Henderson 53B

I am trying to locate Robert (Bob) Henderson 53B, a very good friend. Bob married Avril and went on to have 4 sons. Unfortunately we lost contact when Bob was on his C of W (Construction) Course at Chatham in 1967. I was just finishing my C of W (Electrical) course. I would appreciate any information that any members of the AOHA might have to help me locate an old friend. Jim(Joe) Talbot 22967589 53B

04/03/2010 - Royal Signals Memorial DVD

A DVD showing 22 of the Corps related memorials at the National Memorial Arboretum is now available. The DVD also includes shots of the Armed Forces Memorial, the dedication of the Corps Memorial in May 2008 and a map of the site. Cost is Â£5.00 plus 50p each for p&p. Cheques payable to "PF & M Soward" to:- Pat Soward, "Shipton", The Hollow, Child Okeford, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8EX. All profits to be shared between the Air Formation Signals Assn and the Royal Signals Benevolent Fund.

25/01/2010 - Bill Pratt - Draughtsman 49b - A Coy

Sad to report that Bill Pratt died on Thursday 21 Jan in the Medway Hospital. This comes as a great shock to all who knew him and saw him at the reunion last October. More news as I get it.

Allen Buckeridge 49b.

22/01/2010 - Bernie Meehan 1968/69

This is a shot in the dark. Bernie Meehan joined the Corps as an apprentice at Harrogate around 68/69 and graduated as a RTg in 72. His first posting was to Delta Troop, 22 Sigs. He went on to serve in a variety of postings, which included a total of 10 years with 14 Sigs (EW) before going on the Long Service List as a SQMS with a Sqn in Manchester. He is currently due to be medially discharged around April. He lives in St Helens with Wendy and family.

Last year Bernie suffered a severe stroke that almost cost his life, but he pulled through, but is almost blind. Bernie has had few interests in life, as the Army was/is his life. They have just registered with St Dunstan's and is having meetings with them shortly. Hopefully they will be able to suggest ways to assist him getting some sort of quality of life, however, in the meanwhile, Bernie is in a dark place. Wendy his wife tells me 'Bernie is so uplifted when he hears from someone in the Corp he has known over the years and it makes such a difference to his day'.

If you knew/met Bernie during your career, would you consider taking the time out to give him a call, send him an email or contact him via facebook or even better, pop in and see him? He has had very few people contact him, particularly when you consider how long he has been in the Army. I have spoken to him at length and I can assure you that a telephone call to him will not be a cringer, he does not feel sorry for himself, nor does he focus on poor health. Contact details are Tel: 01744 733132 (suggest you phone for address and arrange time if you wish to visit him) or email to wendym_6@hotmail.com

Perhaps you don't know or have never met Bernie. Can I ask that you pass this request on to anyone who may have served with him. Any contact will make his day and it is little to ask when you consider his current circumstances.

Maurice

17/12/2009 -Fred Minay 53A

Sadly news has reached us that Fred Minay 53A has been taken ill, further details can be obtained from the Honorable Secretary. maurice@snook60.freeserve.co.uk

25/11/2009 - Email scams

Some scam emails (always after your money) now mention a connection to the RSA (or other service assn) and may have your name on them. DO NOT reply to these (even to tell them to "xxxxxx off"), as once the sender has confirmation of your Email address, you may be targetted with even more junk mail. Any email from the RSA will always ends with 'mod.uk'. See http://whatconsumer.co.uk/brainwashed-powerless/ for more information.

If you receive an e-mail that contains something that is either outrageous (i.e. Starbucks refusing to send coffee to US Marines in Iraq) or too good to be true (i.e. Samsung giving away free laptops) check out http://www.hoax-slayer.com/. If it is on the list of hoaxes, send the hoax slayer link to the senders so that they can be educated not to forward such e-mails. This also applies to Emails that state something like- "do not open any Email from so and so(name), as he is a hacker". Instead of merely passing it on as instructed, check with hoax slayer.

25/11/2009 - AGM group photos

We have 88 faces and 80 names, for the 2007 photo and we have 85 faces and 76 names for the 2009 photo. If members would like to order either or both of these photo's, with or without the names, please contact the hon.secretary by email maurice@snook60.freeserve.co.uk

28/10/2009 - Looking for Mervyn Abbott

My name is Chris Yates, I am a Beachley Old Boy 64C trying to contact an old school friend of mine who went to Harrogate. His name is Mervyn Abbott and I am quite sure that he was 64B. We attended the Colonel Frank Seely Sec. Modern at Galverton in Nottingham, we were also in the Army Cadets (Notts ACF - Southwell) together. The last I heard of Mervyn was that he was living in the Andover area, I do not know what his trade was but I do remember it was Royal Signals. If Mervyn Abbott reads this or any one knows of his whereabouts please email any details to the Hon Sec at maurice@snook60.freeserve.co.uk

15/10/2009 - Closure of BFPO's in BAOR

It is reported that it is the MoD’s intention to close the BFPO service in BAOR in Sep 2010. There is a petition to the PM at:- http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/SaveBFPO/ calling for the closure to be cancelled. This petition was supported by the recent meeting of the RSA Central Committee. The Chairman RSA felt that the MoDÂs plan was rather premature, as numerous service families in BAOR are still dependant upon their BFPO. It is asked that, if your members feel inclined, they support the petition. Yours, Peter

Note from 'Steve' Stephenson - 49B

My request for an Army Apprentices School shoulder title in the July 2009 Journal was instantly successful. The donor was Chris Garratt of one of the 1958 intakes. Chris very generously gave me his "spare" and as he didn't request payment I have made a donation to AOHA funds. I am concerned that some of my old pals from 49B might still be tottering about in their attics, and rummaging through their old kit bags looking for them; so I would be grateful if you will let any of the IT literate who are capable of 'tuning-in' to the AOHA website, know that the search is off. Crystal sets and semaphore flags were still in use for contact with the outside world during our time at "Penny Pot Lane" and (other than the B Company boys) there may not be too many of my vintage logging on. I am still some way behind modern methods of comms; but, with a little local assistance, I managed to access the AOHA website a couple of days ago. It brought back many happy memories and it was great to see 'Tara' and the old 'spider' accommodation. Happy days! Many thanks for your help. 'Steve' Stephenson

01/06/2009 - Request for Information

Sgt. Frederick Backley Band Leader 1st Batt. Royal Ins. Fusiliers

I enclose a request for service details form duly completed regarding my Uncle Frederick who died in 1959. I require this information for my family history research. I do know that my uncle was to play at the Royal Tournament in 1959, but unfortunately died a couple of weeks beforehand, in fact, I think he was going to play a piece of music he composed himself. We have never heard this piece of music, so I would be grateful if you could let me know who I could contact to get a copy of it. The only details I have are that he was in the Army Apprentices School, Harrogate, Yorkshire and died on 15th May, 1959 at Medical Reception Hildebrand Barrack, Killinghall, Harrogate.

Doreen Jones (Mrs) Nee Backley

Anyone able to assist please contact the Honorary Treasure john.jones49@btinternet.com or myself webmaster@theharrogateapprentice.co.uk

16/05/2009 - Request for information

I wonder if you,or someone in the Association would know if records exist of track & field athletics meetings held at Penny Pot Lane. I am researching my athletics career and trying to document all the competitions i took part in.
As a member of a Leeds City Athletic Club team,i remember coming over a few times and competing against the Army Apprentices. The club took part in this this annual event for a number of years,certainly throughout the seventies and into the early eighties. There are a couple of dates i have from old athletic club fixture lists which are 12/07/76 & 11/07/77
Any results archive or such like would be of great interest to me and probably the athletic club too.
Thanks Steve Linsell (Leeds City A C) Jumperman@talktalk.net

24/01/2009

Just for the record, and to up-date previous messages re 54B, thanks to this site I have re-established contact with Pete Gray, who now lives in Scotland. However, still not found any trace of Dixon. Incidentally, seeing various photos on this site, I am prompted to wonder whether Mick Gowlett, another former colleague in HQ, is still in touch with old Harrogate colleagues. Mick was very pally with a lad called Arnold (surname), who subsequently went to the RASC with the clerks. I might also mention that a few years ago I did try to locate our old HQ boy sgt George Ient, who later returned to B Co. I did find an address in Eastbourne, but my letters went unanswered --maybe it was the wrong address.

Best wishes for 2009 to everyone! Keith Farnsworth

18/12/2008

Re "Some lads of B co 54B just before pass off 1957" in the photos section.

Just to add to the picture collection, here is a photo I have just rediscovered. I took it when I went back to Harrogate in 1957 for the 54B passing out parade. I was very early getting there, and the lads in B Co are pictured having abit of light fun before the job of getting ready for the big parade. I think Corbett is the lad on the ground, and of the others I recognise Derbyshire, Bartlett and my old pal Dixon.
If any of these lads recognise themselves and want me to send them a copy of the picture, they have only to get in touch.
Best wishes.
Keith Farnsworth 54B

17/10/2008

Meassage from Keith Farnsworth 54B ---"I was at the AAS at Harrogate only for a short time in 1954-5, before moving with the clerks to Blackdown, I would love to get a message on some message board in the hope of finding two old pals from 54B --Peter Gray (he came from Kent), and "Weasel" Dixon (he was from Doncaster). In the case of "Weasel" Dixon, it is all so long ago that I have forgotten his Christian name, but he was a tall slim lad. I have a pix of group of lads who were with me in HQ. Lads like Arnold, Christmas, Foskett, etc. George Ient was our boy sgt.
I have tried many times over the years to find Gray and especially Dixon. but without success." ***If you have any information please contact the Honorary Secretary***

The Association Of Harrogate Apprentices