Obituaries


The funeral of the late Graham Dring will take place next Tuesday, 6 May 2008, at 10,45, at the West Wilts Crematorium.  The address is Devizes Road, Semington, BA14 6HL on A361, from Trowbridge to Devizes.  Telephone 01380 871101.
 
The reception afterwards is at the Kings Arms Hotel, Market Place, Melksham.
 
Family flowers only.  Donations to Cancer Research via the Funeral Director, D J Bewley, 15  Bank Street, Melksham  SN12 6LE.
 
If you are attending the reception, please let Graham Dring Junior know on (number available from webmaster), or me, John Walton

It is with deep regret that I inform you that East Midlands Member Dave Frisby passed away on Wednesday after a long illness.Dave's family home is Ratcliffe on Trent,Nottingham
 
Dave' funeral will take place on Friday 2nd.May at 1200 hours at Wilford Hill Crematorium,Nottingham.
East Midlands Branch will be in attendance to support his wife Jean and family.
 
May He Rest In Peace
 
Bernard Lamb

Brian Ransley reports the sad news that member and retired WO Graham Dring died peacefully early this morning Wednesday 23 April (St Georges Day).  Graham was in his mid 70's and had suffered with cancer for a few months.
 
May he rest in peace.
 
I will notify funeral details ASAP when know.
 
John Walton

It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that I have to announce that my dear friend, Victor McMillan lost his beloved wife Sally  this morning at 0400 hrs after a long courageous fight against her illness. If you have Vic's Tel number please do not call at the moment.

Stewart McArdle
16/4/08
Sally McMillan's funeral is on the 25 April 08 at 1150 hrs    Lincoln Crematorium.
 
Flowers to E. Gill. Funeral Directors,55 Albert Street, Newark.
18/4/08

Pictures of the funeral
It is with great sadness that I report the death of a very old and dear friend
John ( JJ) ) O'Connell who died at 2 am this morning in Lincoln General Hospital after a relatively short illness. A great character, JJ was very well known and liked during his long years of service in the RAF Police, he will be greatly missed. Our very sincere sympathy to Kay and family : Oonagh , Rory, Michael and Philip.
 
I will pass on funeral details when known, also I will pass to the family any messages from Members.
 
Paul & Marie Flanagan

The church postcode is LN6 7RB. Go right at the 3rd roundabout on the by-pass ( A46  from Newark ) and it is about a mile and a half ahead on the left ( at the junction with Boultham Park Road ). Should you like any further information please ask. I know your presence will mean a lot to Kay and family and they have told me how much they appreciated all the messages of sympathy. The family have requested family flowers only ,but donations if desired to the RAF Benevolent Fund.

JJ O'Connell's funeral will be on Tuesday 29th April. Mass at 9.30 am at St Peter and St Paul's Catholic Church, Skellingthorpe Road, Lincoln will be followed by cremation at 11.10 am at the Lincoln Crematorium . Everyone is welcome at either or both of the services, and afterwards at a reception at the Birchwood Leisure Centre, Birchwood Ave, Birchwood, Lincoln " .
 
Paul Flanagan

My name is Amy Smith
My grandad passed away on 26th March
Joseph Fredrick Smith
He was a proud member of the RAF Police from 1944 - 1948 and he was an officer in Japan
His funeral was held at St Marks Church, Tipton, West Midlands on the 11th of April 2008


 It is my sad duty to inform you of the untimley death of my father Harry Wilson (aka Harry The Bastard).
 He passed away at in Ward 16 at Doncaster Royal Infirmary on Thursday 3 April 2008 at 1045hrs. He was in the company of his family, who will miss him very much.

 Harry joined the RAF Police in 1958 and had served in numerous places world wide and within the UK over a period of 35 years including the following
 Cyprus Malta x2 Singapore Aldergrove x2 Wittering x2 (Once on ASU) Kinloss x2 And in Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm

 Leaving the service in 1993 whereupon he embarked on a secondary career as a prison officer in his home town of Doncaster.
 Harry retired from the prison service on his 65th birthday. He enjoyed fishing and foreign trips with his wife of 47 years.

 He is survived by his wife Jackie and his daugher (Yvonne ) and two sons (Paul & Ian)

 Paul Wilson
 ex Cpl RAF Police (C8201513)


Smokey Funnel had died in the early hours of Sunday in Bath Royal United Hospital. The funeral is being held at the Semington Crematorium on Friday 28 March 2008 at 1515 hrs. Donations to Cancer Research please.
Semington is south of Melksham and the road to it runs off a roundabout on the Western Way and is parallel to the A350. I think it might be the B3104 Go onto Google Earth and type in Semington.  


I was informed today by Sean (Jock)Ross that Tom Lawler had died .I have no details at this time but as soon as Jock gets back to me I will post them.
I served with Tom at Laarbruch and Machrihanish 70/76.
Tom did not die recently from what Jock tells me it was a few weeks ago.
 
Stewart McArdle


This is to let you know that, last Wednesday 5 March, Peter died after a short illness. 
 
He first became ill at the beginning of December last year and was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at the beginning of January.  He died a week after being admitted to hospital in Liskeard with the children and myself at his bedside. 
 
Could you please let the others on the reunion list know and if anyone would like any details of the funeral to be held in Plymouth on Friday they can email me on pv.baggs@virgin.net.
 
Valerie Baggs

I have been advised by Bert's brother that Bert Pinfold was found dead on Tuesday 19th Feb as the result, it is thought, of a possible heart attack.  His body was discovered by police after a neighbour reported he had not been seen.   Bert was one of the founder members of the Scot & NI Branch and served as Branch Chairman during his time.  It appears he has had heart problems over the last couple of years since his wife Sadie passed away but had kept this information from his family.
 
The funeral will be two fold with a service being held on Tuesday 26th Feb at Our Lady Of Good Council Chapel, Craigpark Street (Off Alexander Parade), Glasgow.  The procession will arrive at 09:45hrs with the service commencing at 10:00 hrs.  This service will be attended by members of the Scot & NI Branch with Standard.
 
The internment will take place at the Wilford Hill Cemetary in Nottingham at 10:40 hrs on Friday 29th Feb and I am advised by Bernard Lamb that the East Midlands Branch will attend with Standard.
 
I have passed our condolences to the family.
 
The funeral service for our colleague Bert Pinfold was well attended at the Chapel Our Lady of Good Counsel this morning by many of his friends especially due to the close relationship Bert had with the church. 
 
As requested by the family the Branch was represented by myself, Mick McLaughlin, Jack Pettigrew, Bill Watson and Ian Gordon with the SNI Standard.  (Steven & Margaret Lafferty were also in attendance)  Again as requested we lined the way into the chapel and on completion of the service we formed up immediately behind the padre in front of the cortege and escorted the party outside to the hearse where the Standard was lowered in salute.   This was warmly received by Bert's brothers John, Brian, Kevin and his sisters Margaret & Maureen who advised us that Bert had been clothed in his "RAFPA uniform" of flannels & blazer with the RAFPA Badge.  His white beret was displayed on top of the coffin.  As some may know it was always Bert's wish that he should have a military funeral (even though he was continually told it could not happen) however, we feel that in this case this was the closest he could have had to his desire. 
 
The family have been advised of the intention of colleagues from the East Midlands Branch attending the internment on Friday and are extremely grateful and happy to have the representatives.  
 
regards
 
Gus McGowan
Gus McGowan
Secretary
RAFPA Scot & NI Branch
 

Sad to report the recent death of retired Sqn Ldr W (Terry) Tomlinson BEM.  He was one of the finest investigators (both as a SNCO and officer) in the RAF Police.  He was born on 20 November 1919 and retired on 20 November 1974.
 
Terry's funeral will take place on Thursday, 14 February 2008 at 13.45, at the Surrey and Sussex Crematorium.  This is at Forge Wood, Balcombe Road, Worth, Near Crawley, West Sussex, RH100 3NQ.  The funeral directors are Ballard and Shortall.  10 Haslett Avenue West, Crawley, West Sussex RH10 1HS Tel 01293 520011.
 
Contact is Terry's neice, Rosie J Williams on (number available from the webmaster)  and if any former (or serving) RAF Police attend the funeral, Rosie requests she is informed (to ensure a very sincere welcome). 
 
Regards
 
John Walton


04/02/08

A dear friend and a colleague, John Blaxall, passed away last Thursday. John and I served together at P&SS Rheindahlen in 1976 and we met again in 2006 whilst working for Cable & Wireless. I left Cable & Wireless in 2004 but John continued. John will be known to many of you and he will be missed by us all. John leaves a wife Sophie and a grand-daughter (in his care) Sophie. 

Philip W Jones

Director – Guarding Services

International Security Services

 
Email from Jim Marsh - C&W

I am deeply saddened to announce that John Blaxall, part of our Physical Security team, died suddenly of a suspected heart attack at home yesterday.

John joined our business in 1990, after a career spanning over 20 years in the RAF, where he was a member of the Provost (Security) Services.  John travelled the world with the forces, spending much of his time in Cyprus.

During his 17 years at Cable&Wireless, he held various responsibilities within Security, including contractor relationships, incident response coordination, project management, corporate investigations and access process planning.

Over the years John built relationships and strong friendships with a large number of colleagues, particularly in Field Services, Network Operations and Property. He also worked extensively with law enforcement agencies, and airport authorities. 

In fact, during the recent terrorist attacks and alerts, it was John's diplomatic liaison with these agencies that allowed our field teams to enter restricted areas in UK airports and assure service to our customers.

John's dedication to an ever-changing business remained unwavering and his professionalism was unrivalled. He will be deeply missed by his team and colleagues throughout our business.

Our thoughts are with his wife Val, daughters and grandchildren at this sad time.  


19/01/08 

Ken Broddle (Ex RAFP WO) phoned me last week with the sad news that Andy McLennan had died last Saturday (12th Jan 08). He was three weeks off retirement!
 
I knew Andy when he was the RAF Police Sargeant at The Queens Flight at RAF Benson from 1976 to about 1983/4 when he retired from the RAF.
 
A very likeable and able man who will be sadly missed by his wife Sue and family.
 

 
John Buck RVM
Ex FS RAF Police

Andy was on my CI course and I worked with him and Ken when I was at 38/1 Gp.  A sad loss as he was a genuinely nice guy.

Steve

the funeral is next Thursday (24th Jan) at Scunthorpe Cremarorium at 1.30pm


I have just been sent this bit of info about an Ex RAF Policeman who has sadly recently passed away.   His details are:
 

Ex-Sgt William ALLON (DOB 28 Nov 33).

Service No: D4273297

Last tour of duty: RAF Wyton

Served for 28 Years.

Died at home on 9 Jan 08.

Funeral to take place on Mon 21 Jan 08 at St Helen’s Church, North Thoresby, Grimsby, at 1130hrs, followed by committal at Grimsby Crematorium at 1220hrs.

For further information, please contact Kettle Ltd., Funeral Directors on 01472 355395.
 

B J MAIN

WO RAF Police/SSyO


11/01/08

Martin Coulter has advised me that Memb. No. 1063, Mr. Reg Wheeler of Colchester, passed away a few days ago.
 
No further details at this time.
 
Regards, Dave W.

Sorry to inform you of the passing of former RAF Policeman  Cpl Dave Card, he passed away in Cyprus where he had lived for a number of years.

Details were passed  by his son in England a few weeks ago, 

I know he was in the service from mid 50s to late 60s , and was stationed in Cyrus twice once during EOKA,  Malta,  Hemswell, and  a base in Northern Ireland near Newcastle County Down

(110108) - I have no other information at the moment


It is with regret that I have to inform you of the death in the Eastbourne General hospital on Wednesday 19th. of
John David Dibley
RAFP October 1947 to November 1949
John retired, in 1987, as the Assistant Chief Constable of the Sussex Police Force.
A private funeral will take place .
There will be a memorial service at St. Mary's Church, Rigmer at 14.00 on 7th January.Any representative of the RAFPA would be appreciated.
 
Any contact can be made to  David Mure - telephone number held by webmaster


Dear All,
 
Member and retired WO, Lloyd Brewer MBE, died this morning at home.  This is recorded as a sudden death and there will be a PM.  So no funeral details known.  Lloyds wife died some years ago. 
 
May he rest in peace.
 
John Walton
18/12/07

¡¶
My Wife Diana and I are so shocked and saddened at the news of Lloyd`s passing.  Di worked with his wife Betty for many years at the Officers Mess RAF Newton until she sadly passed away.  Betty and he were personal friends, indeed we have just received his usual Xmas card.  Lloyd was an absolute gentleman and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
 
Our sincerest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
 
David and Diana Bryant
¡¶
Sad to hear about Lloyd.
He was my Flt Sgt when I arrived at P&SS Hong Kong in 1968
Prior to that time I had been a bit of a rebel and not doing my career any good.Lloyd sat me down read the riot act and informed that in future and if I wanted promotion, I should engage brain before opening mouth.
I did take this message to heart and in 1973 I was promoted.The first thing I did was to write to him and thank him.
Sadly missed as my friend and mentor.
 
Bill Watson
¡¶

After many years trying to trace Dave Bancroft I finally succeeded only to be told by his wife Pat that Dave died 2003.
 
Dave was a member of the RAF Police Dog Demonstration Team  63/65 from there he did a tour of Aden, we next met up at RAF Laarbruch 1970.
 
Dave passed away on the 17 April 2003 after a brave fight against Prostate Cancer.
It is the wishes of his family that I enter this on the RAFPA Web site.
 
RIP Mate
 
 
 
Stew
stewart.mcardle@btinternet.com




I have to inform you of the death this morning of 92 years old member, John Dixon.  John was pushed in his wheelchair at the Arboretum by AC Joanne Board and they laid a wreath on behalf of RAF Police past, present and future.  Sadly, John's wife, who was not well enough to attend the dedication of the RAF Police Memorial, died soon afterwards.  John has spent some time in hospital and recently simply went downhill rapidly.
 
John will be buried in a Nottingham cemetery and Brian Whitaker will know details in a few days.
 
May John rest in peace.
 
John Walton
2/11/07


Colleagues
 
John Walton has circulated the news of John Dixon's passing away last Friday. From your Photo Supplement of the Memorial dedications at Alrewas you have seen John in his wheelchair being pushed by the youngest RAF Police trainee when they laid a wreath during the ceremony on 23 June this year.
 
The deceased was a member of the North West Branch and lived at HEYSHAM, Lancs but he also had original links and relatives in Nottingham. The funeral therefore in 2 stages:
 
    1. Thursday 8 Nov 07 at 11am a service at St Peter's Church, Heysham. Anne (John's carer) would appreciate it greatly if someone from the RAFPA NW Branch could attend.
 
    2.  Friday 9 Nov 07 at 12.20pm a service at Wilford Hill Cemetery, Nottingham followed by an internment. The RAFPA East Midlands Branch will be represented by our standard-bearer and 2 escorts plus any other members who are able to attend.
 
Brian

The funeral of John was at Wilford Hill Cemetery Nottingham yesterday, 9th November.
I was standard bearer with John Limb  and Brian Whitaker as escorts.
Our presence was much appreciated by the mourners.

Photographs of the funeral

John Curtis


Tony Thompson (Secretary, West Anglia Branch), reports the sad news that member David (Taff) Pugh, of Sawston, Cambs died on 28 August 2007.  David had suffered from cancer.
 
Tony has passed to David's son David, the sincere condolences of all Association members.  Funeral details are not yet known and Tony is the contact.
 
May David rest in peace


The funeral of Stella Dixon, late wife of 91 years old John Dixon, will take place on Tuesday 21 August 2007, at 11.00, at St Peters Parish Church, in Heysham.  Everyone is very welcome to attend.  John Dixon's carers are Robert and Anne Greenham.
 
Internment will take place at 12.00 on Wednesday 22 August, at South Cemetery, Wilford Hill, Nottingham.  Again, all are welcome to attend. 


9/8/07

It is with regret that I have to inform you of the death of a member of the East Midlands Branch  - Tony Boot.

Tony was a National serviceman, who joined the Association at the back end of 2006..

His only postings, as an RAF Police Dog Handler, was to RAF Gaydon, arriving there on the 8th August 1958.

On leaving the RAF he joined the Nottinghamshire Police Force and served for 30 years.

He leaves behind a daughter and Grandchildren.
 
R.I.P. Tony


13/7/07

it is with the very greatest sadness, that I have to announce the death of Richard Seal, the Editor of The Notebook, the magazine of the L & SE Branch. Richard had been fighting against very severe illness for many months, and at 7pm last night he passed away. Richard was a great credit to both the Association and to the L&SE Branch, always smiling and good humoured through adversity. He will be sorely missed, both as a close friend and as the long standing Editor and creator of The Notebook Magazine. The L & SE Branch passes its most sincere condolances to his
beloved wife Patricia and to his family. May Richard forever rest in peace

Alan Peel Shaw


24/6/07

I have just been informed that S&NI member Dave Browning passed away on Thurs last, the 21st, only five weeks after being diagnosed with Cancer. He was just 55.
From Gus McGowen:
Regrettably the funeral takes place tomorrow (25th June) and The Branch will not have time to make any representation at the funeral.  However, I have arranged with my brother-in-law (who lives in Campbletown) for some form of flower dedication to be presented at the funeral with a card from the RAF Police Association in respect of us all.  I have also spoken with Jan (Dave's wife) and given her sincere apologies that no one will be present and condolences on behalf of the Branch.  She completely understands and thanked me for our thoughts.
 
For those that don't know apparently Dave was diagnosed with cancer 5 weeks ago and given anything from  6 months to a year however he was gone within 5 weeks.
 


11/6/07
It is my sad duty to report the death within the last couple of days, of Memb. No. 0277, Mr. Jim Bew, Secretary of Hants & Dorset Branch. 
The funeral of the late Jim Bew, Secretary of Hants, Dorset & IoW Branch, will be at Basingstoke Crematorium, at 13.15 hrs on Friday 15th June, 2007.
 
May he rest in peace.
 
Dave Wardell.


Sad to report the death in late April of Jeff Perry who served from 1952-1976.  After his RAF Police service which included significant time in NI, Jeff was a security officer on the Tamar bridge between Devon and Cornwall.
 
Jeff and his wife Anne were at the SWAB inaugural meeting in March 1999, but not long afterwards he lost a leg after severe heart problems.  His health deteriorated and for several years he was in a nursing home.  We have sent to Anne and their son Jonathan, the condolences of the Association.
 
May he rest in peace.
 
John Walton


David Wardell reports the sad news that member Norman Cleverley died Thursday 12 April.  Norman served from Feb 48 to Feb 56.  He is survived by his wife Sue and she lives at {address available from webmaster if needed.}
Norman's funeral will take place at 14.30 on Monday 23 April, at Porchester Crematorium.  The address is Upper Cornaway Lane, Fareham, PO16 8NE.  Tel 01329 822 533.  No flowers by request, but donations may be sent for "The Rowan's Hospice".  Contact is David Wardell on his phone as he is "off air" at present.
 
May Norman Rest in Peace.

I have to report the sad news of the death yesterday of Mr Derek (Mike) C Wilding, of Honiton, Devon
 
Mike joined the RAF in Nov 47 and served to Feb 69, retiring as Sgt.  He joined the Association in September 06.
 
He did so because shortly before, he was in Grantham (why he was in Grantham is another complicated story) shopping when Jean Ettridge (wife of John Ettridge MBE) spotted Mike had a red Griffen badge on his blazor.  What a sharp eyed lady!!  To cut a very long story short, Mike acknowledged he used to be in the RAF Police.  And yes he had served at RAF Halton in the early 50's and (eventually) agreed he knew the late Monty Banks, Spike Window and John Ettridge!!  What a small world and what a huge coincidence only possibly of course because of Jean's persistance!!
 
Jean told David Wardell who told me, and I rang Mike and he joined the Association.  Sadly he said his health would not allow him to travel to the SWAB meetings in Plymouth, even though we had a volunteer driver.  Then, tragically Mike's son died of cancer and (naturally) that event hit him very hard.
 
We are not aware of Mike's family circumstances and his daughter, who reported his death, did not (at that stage) wish for us to be involved.  I will write to his family at his address and see if we should attend his funeral, when arrangements are known.
 
May he rest in peace.
 
John Walton


Report the death Tuesday of retired Wg Cdr Lyn Lewis at the grand age of 90.  He lived in Cumbria and funeral arrangements are not yet known.

Gleaned from the 'Grantham Journal'. Charles Sidney Parish died on 01 03 2007 aged 86 yrs . I believe his last post was WO(SI) at Central Region Spitalgate 1968 ish. On leaving the service he settled in Ancaster Lincs.  John Munday

Mr Charles Sidney Parish, of St Martin's Way, Ancaster, has died at Grantham Hospital. He was 86.
Born in Bow, East London, to William and Lucy Margaret Parish, he was the fourth of eight children, Lucy, Irene, Bill, Reginald, Gertrude and Joan, who predeceased him, and Sid, who survives him.
He leaves his wife, Gladys, or Cis as she is known, and children Susan, David and Richard.
He wrote about his early life and according to his book he was 'enrolled, dragged, smuggled or drugged' at the age of three into Olga Street School, Bow, and the only thing he was taught was how to survive. When the school closed he went to Fairfield Road School, Bow, where he did well and passed his exams.
At the age of 14, he started work and his jobs included sweeping in the cutting room of the firm who employed his parents as outworkers, tailoring overcoats; a driver's mate; jobbing builder and cabinet maker.
In July 1940 he enlisted in the Royal Air Force, where he volunteered for aircrew duties and was subsequently sent to Canada. After two years he returned to the UK and was attached to the RAF Police. He briefly left the RAF in 1946 to help rebuild war damage, but then returned to service life, again with the RAF, with tours of duty in West Africa, Egypt, Germany and Aden to name a few, ending his service life at RAF Spitalgate.
His last employment was as estates manager with Kontak Manufacturing, until his retirement in 1985.
He was a DIY enthusiast, always making things out of scraps of wood. He enjoyed decorating and gardening and was also a Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator.
In his latter years he was devoted to caring for Cis. He was a much-loved husband, father, grandfather and brother and will be missed by his family and friends.
The funeral service was held at St Martin's Church, Ancaster, conducted by Robert Holland. Burial followed at Ancaster.


Dear Members I have just been informed of some very sad news  Ken Gray  member of North Yorkshire Branch was admitted to York District Hospital last night after a massive heart attack. sadly he passed away during the night.  He was 79 years of age and had served in the RAF Police in the late 1940' at RAF Tenga, and the early  1950's at RAF Acaster Malbis near York. he had been a member of the North Yorkshire Branch for the last three years.

 

  George Murgatrioyd Branch Secretary

Funeral of Ken Gray  member of North Yorkshire Branch will be held on Tuesday 20th February at 1300 hrs at the York Crematorium Bishopthorpe, York. anyone wishing to send flowers should send them to the Coop Chapel of Rest Cromwell Road, Bishopnhill .York

__._,_.___

Ex-FS James (Jim) Given, RAF Police died on 8 January 2007. Jim left the RAF in the early 90s to settle with his family in South Wales. He joined the civil police but had to leave due to spinal injuries received during an attack. During this period his marriage broke up and he was due to remarry on 2 December 2006 but he developed problems in his leg after returning from a holiday abroad and the leg was amputated on 30 November 2006. Following complications and a series of worsening strokes, Jim died on 8 January 2007.  The funeral will take place at St Bride's RC Church, Oakfield Street, Pontardulais, near Llanelli on Wednesday 17 January 2007 at 1000 hours, followed by burial at 1215 hours in Llanelli District Cemetery. Further details may be obtained from the funeral directors Arthur Cmbery (01554 772829 ).


I was informed today (26/5/06) that Jim Cullington's wife Phylis had died after a long illness.Jim and Phylis were well known in the trade. I served with Jim at Wildenrath in the 70s. Condolence cards may be sent to Jim at 6 Rutland Drive,New Waltham,Nr Grimsby,South Humberside, DN36 4PA

Max Espie


 

It is with deep regret that I must announce the death of Michael Balchin BEM, ex Flight Sergeant, RAF Police. Mick passed away in Cyprus on 24 April 2006.

The funeral will be held at 1400 hours on Monday 8 May 2006 at West Wiltshire Crematorium, Devizes Road, Semington, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 6HL.

The family state that anyone who knew or served with Mick is welcome to attend the service. Further details may be obtained from Mick’s son, Michael Junior, on 01225 710056.  


 

It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the death of (Ex Cpl) Michael John Wooltorton (2778752) who served with the RAF Police between 1955 and 1967. Michael, who was 72 years old,

 died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday 19th March 2006 in Gloucestershire Royal Hospital. The funeral will take place at Gloucester Crematorium at 1330hrs on Friday 31st March 2006.

 


Denis Underhill 3153839 - Acting Corporal (unpaid) served 1958-1961. Denis was only 66 and died on 16 May 2005 following a stroke in July 2004.  His RAF career - albeit a short, National Service one - was of great pride to him and he retold stories from RAF Benson until the end of his life.  In civilian life he was an Architect with his own practice and lived in Cheddar, Somerset where he was heavily involved in local activities from amateur dramatics to Parish Council.  He served as a County Councillor for Somerset for the last four years of his life.  He leaves a widow Susan, four sons and eleven grandchildren.


With regret I must inform you that Jack Batchelor (of Hants & Dorset Branch) passed away at 08.15 am on 6th December in Basingstoke Hospital after suffering a heart attack last evening.

 

A real character who continued to support the Association despite his declining health in recent years.

Click on the pictures for the larger version

 

The funeral of Jack Batchelor will be at Basingstoke Crematorium, on Wednesday 14th  December 2005, at 13.30 hrs. By request of his Daughter Pat, No black ties or sombre suits - no flowers (family flowers only), but donations to RAFBF or RAFA would be welcome.

 

The PM (RAF) will be in attendance, as well as a couple of  representatives from the RAF Police at  RAF Odiham .

 


 

I have today been in touch with the Dublin branch of the RAFA to look for Mr John Burdett, one of our Old Ceylon Comrades. Sadly he passed away earlier this year. John Burdett did his police training at Uxbridge in October 1939. He was then posted to Ceylon via Singapore in 1941, then to RAF China Bay and was there when the Japs bombed the station, then posted to Police H.Q. in McCartney road, Colombo under the eyes of A.P.M. Flt Lt Kavington. RAF Negombo was at this time under construction and was posted there as a Sgt staying at Negombo Rest House and supervising the construction labour until being posted home in July 1945 and discharged in 1947. John lived in Dublin and was a vice president of the Dublin branch of the RAFA.


 

With regret I inform you of the death today of retired Group Captain Charles Hobgen.  He had not been well for some time and recently was diagnosed with cancer.

The funeral will take place at 14.00, on Thursday 4 August 2005, at Semington Crematorium.  This is on the A361 between Trowbridge and Devizes. Only family flowers - any donations to Dorothy House Hospice.  address for cards/letters available from the webmaster upon request by email

Charles Hobgen, born in 1922, was for years in quite a harsh orphanage in Hastings.  During the War he flew as an observer until he was shot down in 1944.  He spent the last year of the war as a POW and then transferred to Provost after the war.  All in all, quite a character of the Old School.
RIP

John Walton
 A Conversation between Frank McKenna and Charles Hobgen


 

William Knight (Robbie) Robertson  1925 - 2005

It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of "Robbie" at his home in Ruskington, Lincolnshire yesterday after a long, well fought, battle.Robbie served in submarines during the war, and later with the Palestinian Police Force. He joined the Royal Air Force Police in 1952, and served until retiring   as a Flight Sergeant in 1978. He was one of the founder members of the Association but, due to ill health, had let his membership lapse.

The funeral will take place at the Grantham Crematorium at 14.00 hours on Thursday 30th June 2005

 


It is with regret that I bring sad news of the death of ex W O Cyril  (CY) BURGESS who passed away suddenly on May 30th 2005 in Oxford  Aged 72.Funeral Monday 13th June 2005 at Westerleigh Crematorium  1pm.Family flowers only.Donations to the RAF Benevolent Fund c/o E C Alderwick and Son Ltd, 71 High Street, Hanham,Bristol.BS16 3DG.The Family invite any RAFPA members attending the funeral to join them afterwards at the Fishponds Conservative Club.

 


BECK Peacefully at home on 30th April 2005, Derek Nelson, aged 50 years. Beloved Husband of Carol, much loved Father of Tony and Michelle, dear Son of Marjorie, Brother of Peter and Andrea and a good friend to many. Funeral Service at St. Dunstan's Church, Cranbrook on Tuesday 10th May at 2.00pm. Family flowers only please. Donations, if wished payable to Cancer Research UK c/o J. Perigoe & Son, Bank Street, Cranbrook TN17 3EF Telephone 01580 713636


Ex Police Sargeant Ronald Thomas Cunningham. Debden, Wildenwrath, Cranwell and many more retired gracefully from his life on Wednesday 13th Apil 2005.

He recalled many fond memories and friends from his years in the service.

Terence Cunningham...( Son )


SLEIGH, Gordon (ex-WO RAF Police) passed away at St Michael's Hospice in

Basingstoke on 21st March 2005 aged 75 years.   Gordon joined the RAF on National Service in 1948 and served for 35 years in the

UK, Gibraltar, Singapore and Germany before retiring in 1984 to become Sheriff's Officer for Wiltshire, a role he held until he finally retired in 1998. Dearly loved husband to June, his wife of 52 years, loving father to Hilary and Ian, Gillian and Dave and adored G'pa to Steven and Charlotte.


 

I regret to inform you that FS Mark Timbrell (R8191642), RAFP, died from a
terminal illness on 15 Nov 04 at Dorothy House Hospice, Winsley,
Bradford-on-Avon, Wilts.  RAF Lyneham is currently notifying units of his
death and advising the funeral arrangements.

FS Timbrell's wife has asked that only current and former colleagues who had
a close working relationship with him and personal friends attend the
funeral; this is because space is limited in the church.  Those wishing to
attend should speak to either Flt Lt Pascoe, OC RAFP, or Sgt Astley RAFP,
RAF Lyneham on 01249 896588 and 01249 896450 respectively. 

The funeral will take place at 1400 on 26 Nov 04 at St Bartholomew's Church,
Coaley (nr Dursley) Gloucestershire.  Dress is No1HD with appropriate
accoutrements or civilian suit.

It is requested that flowers are not sent but donations made payable to
Dorothy House or Macmillan Nursing Charities would be welcomed.  Cheques
should be sent to Maslins' Funeral Directors, 118A High Street, Wooton
Bassett, Wilts SN4 7AU.


 It is with deep regret that I must inform of the death of my
grandfather, Derek Roland John NEWBURY passed away on 29 September 2004
at age 74, as a result of a stroke suffered somedays before. My
grandfather was a career RAF Police member, and I believe ended up a
Sergeant. Although he didn't share much about his career I know he loved
his job immensly.

I'm sorry I can't provide more details of his career.

I enclose a number of his obituaries.

Thank you

Robert Newbury


*NEWBURY. _*
Derek Roland John.
Grandpa, gone from our eyes,
but not from our hearts.
Your loving grandchildren _
Robert and Jennie

01, October, 2004

*
NEWBURY. _ Derek.*
Deepest sympathy to Mary and
family on the passing of Derek.
Our thoughts are with you.
_Stanyer Family.

01, October, 2004


*NEWBURY. _ Derek Roland*
John, aged 74, passed away in
his sleep Sept. 29, 2004.
Devoted husband of Mary.
Beloved father of Allan, David
and Stanley. Father-in-law to
Susan and Rosemary. Grand
father to Robert, Jennifer,
Gareth and Rhys. Step-
grandfather to Nicki. We will
all miss you and you will
always be in our hearts.


30, September, 2004


*NEWBURY. _ Derek. Passed*
away Sept. 29, 2004. You will
be missed a great deal. Find
yourself a nice corner, and
reserve another one for us.
Deepest sympathy to Mary and
family. _ Bryan and Sue
Robilliard and family.

30, September, 2004



*NEWBURY. _ The Funeral*
Service for the late Mr Derek
Roland John Newbury will be
held in our Chapel, 25 McKenzie
St, Melton (cnr Palmerston St)
on MONDAY (Oct. 4)
commencing at 1 p.m.
A Private Cremation will follow
MELTON 9747-8866


30, September, 2004



It is with great regret that I have to inform you that my Dad Alex Hanley passed away today (25 July 2004) at 3:50 am due to complications and stress to his his system from the cancer.  His passing was very peaceful and surrounded by his family. Memorial Service will be held later this week here in Calgary   It would be greatly appreciated if among you a notice could be posted on the Royal Air Force Web Site..

 

Ruth (Alex's daughter)

 

Alex was an RAF Policeman through and through and will be remembered by many RAF Policemen who were taught Basic Police Training by him when he was an Instructor at RAF Police Depot Netheravon in 1958 - 1960


 

 

With regret I have to inform you of the death this morning (10 July 2004) at the age of 71yrs of Alan Forster of Radcliffe-on-Trent, Nottingham.

 

He had been admitted to Hospital yesterday, was diagnosed as having had a mild heart attack and was waiting for space on the coronary unit, his condition was stable.  However, this morning at 7 am he got up, washed, shaved and then collapsed in the wash-room.

 

Alan was a well known RAF Policeman and while a Sergeant in 1971 was commissioned. He retired as a Flt Lt and became a vetting officer.


 


 

Sadly, an article in a recent local newspaper reported the death of
Kenneth Frank ALLEN,a member of our association who died on the 28th
March 2004. He served in the RAF Police from April 69 to September
1984 raching the rank of Flight Sergeant. He was born in Cornwall but
having previously served in Lincolnshire on retirement, he resided
with his family at Branston,Lincoln.Throughout his life he was a
staunch member and supporter of the Scout Movement and a member of
the Lincoln Branch of the RAF Association. Ken Allen died following a
series of strokes at the age of 63 years and a Guard of Honour was
formed by members of the RAF Police Association and local Scouts at
his funeral, which took place at Lincoln Crematorium on 7th April
2004. He is survived by his wife Edna known as Teddie and four
children.

Dennis Shipton 


 

Mick Cattigan died Monday 15 December 2003

Who the hell is CATTIGAN do I hear you say?

He was one half of the well known and loved CATTIGAN twins that served from the 50's making RAFP their careeer. The other half was John, died some years ago. The pair of them worked hard and played harder and became characters in the RAFP field. I had the honour to serve with them on 31 PD at Singapore. Both feature in Hennesey's  History of the RAFP and to their credit when they were repatriated as the HMTS sailed past Tiger Beer Breweries the flags were lowered in their honour.

Both progressed to WO. John on demob worked for American Embassy and Mick at Plymouth Airport , both in the Security field.

So the end of another era in the hsitory of RAFP.


 

The Norfolk Branch are sad to announce the death of Robert (Bob) Mc Kay Bruce after a very short illness. Bob will be sadly missed by not only the Branch but to all those throughout the years who have had the pleasure of knowing him.


 

Tom Simpson - former National Chairman, Vice Chairman and Annual Vice President died on Wednesday 1 Oct 03. 

Tom (Tucker) is 2nd left at the front

 


 

It is with regret that I have to advise members of the death of Leslie (Lesol) Leach in the Churchill Hospital Oxford on 9 August '03. Leslie served from 1947 to 1949 and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Gordon Sidey, WR Branch


 

I regret to write that at the EMB Meeting today we were informed of the death of one of our members;

Bill Fitzpatrick (Ex FS served 1955 to 1984) in a hospice in Newark last Monday 14 July 2003.

He lived with his wife Joan in Newark, Notts.

Following his RAF Police service Bill was with HM Customs & Excise for several years until his retirement.

Bill was a real character, a very well read Liverpudlian with a typical Scouser's sense of humour. He will be missed by all his friends and former colleagues.

Brian Whitaker

 


Mr James Beardsley, of 37 Shakespeare Street, Holmewood, CHESTERFIELD, S42 5TU,has died, aged 51. Born in Holmewood, he had been resident back in this part of Derbyshire for six years. Mr Beardsley served for 12 years in the RAF as a dog handler and travelled the world. He loved football, music and fishing. Bereaved are a widow, Ann, a son and daughter. A funeral service has taken place at Heath Church. Funeral directors: Stephen Pledger 20A Heath Road, Holmewood (tel. 01246 855101).


 

Paddy Armstrong age 73 served from 1947 to 1968. He leaves a wife, Sally
John Riseborough age 64 served from 1960 to 1985 passed away on 4th June 2003. He leaves a wife, Christine


It is with regret that I have to announce that John Riseborough, Secretary Mid Anglia Branch, passed away yesterday - 4 June 2003.  Funeral will be at Cambridge Crematorium on Friday 13th June, at 11.30 hrs.

Dave Wardell.

 


 

I'd like to inform ex and currently serving members of the RAF Police that my father,ex-FLT SGT ALAN "Robbie" ROBERTS (Nicosia,Lyneham,Bishops Court,Scampton, Kinloss,Wittering,and Rheindahlen to mention a few of his postings) died after a long illness on 29th January,2003,in Stamford Hospital.   Jane Godfrey



Sir,

It is with regret that I forward to you, the news that Ex-corporal Darryl Beckett (R.A.F. Bishops Court, believed 1977 or 1978) was sadly lost on duty, while serving with an international group of officers alongside members of the U.S. Department of Justice.

While boarding a suspected small craft, that had entered U.S. waters off the coast of Florida, he was shot twice by one of the crew and died instantly.

He will be missed by all of us who served with him and more so by his widow and young son.

We hope that anyone who may remember him will pause a moment and give thanks for someone who was willing to give his life for the cause.

As he would always say, when signing of to brother officers, " Take care, stay safe and go home after the shift".

 All the best,

 Samuel J.Kennedy. (Senior Agent. D.E.A.)

We contacted yourselves as Darryl had your site details on his address list and thought it only right. His family hope that someone may remember him and smile at one of his strange ways, of which he had many.

One more thing before we finish off and close down. His superiors in the unit have all said, that his training with yourselves and the R.U.C. must have been good, proved by his ability while in the field.

Thanks again for everything,

Ralph & Angela Beckett (Brother & Sister)


 

 

The following two members have passed away over the last week

 

Mr. Geoffrey Adams, Tolpuddle, Dorset (H&D)

His funeral will be Poole Crematorium at 12 noon on Thursday 28th November, and afterwards refreshments to celebrate his life (and those are Geoff's own words) at Athelhampton House, Puddletown, Dorset. No flowers by request, but donations to Joseph Weld Hospice, Herringston Rd., Dorchester, DT 1 2 SL would be appreciated.

 

 

Gp. Capt. Patrick Hennessy, Camberley, Surrey (L&SE)

His funeral will be at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, on Thursday 28th November.  Further details will be published in The Daily Telegraph.

 

 

Sorry to be the bearer of sad tidings,

 

Dave Wardell.

 


 

It is with much regret that I pass on the sad news that Fred Jackman died yesterday 22 July 2002,  after suffering a massive stroke.  Fred was a well know and popular member of the Royal Air Force Police.  He served from 1947 to 1979 and attained the rank of Warrant Officer.  Our sincere condolence go to his wife Jean and all his family.   He will be sadly missed by all his friends.            Alf Bernstone, Chairman, Yorkshire (North) Branch. 

I am shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the death of another very good friend Fred Jackman. A stalwart member of the RAF Police he was a most professional and dedicated person in his duties.  He nevertheless always showed great understanding and was ready to advise and encourage junior members. Socially an amiable and generous member of any company.   He will be sorely missed by all friends alike. I place on record my condolences to Jean and all the family    John Wood

Fred Jackman's funeral is on Monday 29 July 12 Noon at the Woodlands Crematorium, Scarborough. A number of our members will be in attendance.  If you have the inclination to be there please join us.  Alfred


It is with deepest regret that I have to inform you of the passing today 26th May 2002, at 3.15pm  local time of Jake Izatt in a Vancouver Hospital. More details


 

Sadly I have just learned of the death of Gerald Frazer McMahon.DFM.RAF, an exceptional officer & a gentleman of the Provost Branch, with whom I was privilleged to serve under, in his capacity as Officer Commanding P&SS(FEAF) RAF Changi 1964-67. His death, recorded in the Daily Express Obituary column on 23rd February 2002,reports that he sadly died  on 11th September 2001and he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. He will be particulary remembered in our branch as being the officer who led the RAF police investigation into the successful arrest and conviction of a senior technicion for spying. I for one was very surprised to learn from his obituary notice that he also had a very distinguished war record. As a rear gunner in Stirlings & Lancasters, he was shot down no less than four occasions, once during the D-Day Landings, when he escaped and returned with 62 German prisoners. Picture and story

 

 


Former Provost Marshal, Air Commodore B.C. Player, died on 16 January 2002. The funeral took place at St Catherine's Church, Houghton-on-the-Hill, Leicester at 1300 hrs on 25 January 2002


 

Regret to inform you of the death of Keith Dobie early this morning (15 November) in Grantham Hospital.  He was our much respected editor/author of our Snow Droppings magazine for the East Midlands branch of RAFPA. His sense of humour and his prodigious memory for people and places will be a sad loss to all who knew him.A full obit will be placed in due course.  Stories so far Anyone with any input, please contact the webmaster.

 


Once again, I'm sorry to have to inform members that another former member
of the branch has sadly passed away. I have just been informed by Flt Lt
Denis Read RAF Rtd, that his long time pal and former colleague; Sqn Ldr
Tommy Winter RAF Rtd, passed away a month ago (I'm sorry I don't have a
precise date) at his home in Capetown in S Africa. I am told that his wife
Cynthia is planning to return to the UK next year sometime to visit friends
and family. Unfortunately, Denis Read is not 'on-line' and therefore our
lines of communication are via 'snail-mail'. However, I will write to him
again today to let him know what I have done and to see if he can furnish me
with more information. In the meantime, you may be interested to know a
little about Tommy that I already have included in my book to date: Steve Davies



Stan Grayson, who had been ill for some time, passed away a few weeks ago (this placed on 26 -10-01) at his home in France. A full obit will be placed in due course.  Stories so far Anyone with any input, please contact the webmaster.

 


Colin Bew died in April - I would like to place a full obit - anyone with any input, please contact the webmaster.



Air Commodore Harold Montague Shephard, CBE OBE Provost Marshal (Royal Air Force) 1971 - 1974


 

Former Cpl Stuart Michael Cutler Royal Air Force Police 24 May 61 - 15 Jan 01


 

Former Sgt Tom GallieRoyal Air Force Police 1955 - 1977