PRESIDENT'S FOREWORD

The role of the Royal Air Forces Association came under close scrutiny at the National Conference last year. Air Commodore Mike Good's rather forthright comments on the perception that serving RAF personnel have of the Association caused some concern. However, as with many squadron and branch associations, the RAFA appeals more to those who have left the service and lost the comradeship that they enjoyed, than to those still serving. I feel that it is important to concentrate on what we do best, and that is to provide welfare and support to both serving and former RAF personnel and their dependants. To provide a social environment for the enjoyment of former and serving members of the RAF, to support the air cadet organisation and to encourage a close liaison between the air cadets and the RAFA members. Last but not least, in Friendship and in Service one to another to keep alive the memory of those of all nations who died in the Royal Air Force, and in the Air Forces of the Commonwealth. 

Air Commodore W G Gambold, Branch President

CHAIRMAN'S REPORT

During 2001 we endeavoured to increase our "in house" entertainment and outside activities. Fred Ullathorne and Dave Taylor worked hard to get a programme together, and I know they will improve on this in 2002. In addition there are the usual Branch activities: Annual Dinner/Dance, Annual Lunch etc in the capable hands of our secretary, John Sutherland. The 2001 Annual Dinner, held in the Officers' Mess at RAF Linton-on-Ouse, was a brilliant success, and I am certain it will again be so in 2002. But once again, these events do require the support of the membership to succeed. Details will be given in the Aldwark Chronicle, or can be obtained by
calling in or phoning Branch Headquarters in Aldwark; address and phone number on the front page of the Chronicle. 

We are fortunate to be one of the few Branches which continues to flourish and make progress. In 2001 we have completed the conversion of a new Wings Office/Storeroom, and have installed a chairlift for the benefit of our older and infirm members and guests. For extra security we have fitted a new front door entry system, complete with infra-red camera; this thanks to the generosity of Les Quigley. 

Our newsletter, the Aldwark Chronicle is now well established, and again thanks to Les Quigley, we are one of the few Branches to have our own Website: www.rafayork.co.uk This enables overseas and distant members to keep in touch with Branch activities. 

We have yet to complete the enlargement of the entrance room, and to form an entrance lobby for additional security. To mark the 50th Anniversary of moving into the Aldwark premises in 1953, we propose to revamp and modernise the bar, and refurbish and decorate the bar lounge. Initial preparation work in this direction is already in hand. This will, when complete, bring the bar and lounge up to 21st Century standards, and hopefully save the Branch from major capital outlay for many years to come. That we are able to do this work is thanks to a very generous legacy of some £18,000 which has been left to the Branch by past member, the late Mr Ronald Arnold Smith, late of Sherburn, Co. Durham. 

From the above it can be seen that the Branch has been very active and forward-looking, all of which would be impossible without the support of our active members. To any member contemplating standing for the Committee, I would like to add that you should also be prepared to accept some other duty, and not leave the work to the willing few. One of the problems of any Branch is that of maintaining membership. York Branch can be proud of its achievement in this direction. During recent years we have lost many stalwart members through bereavement, as well as lapsed memberships. Regardless of this, our total membership remains fairly constant without the need to enroll a large percentage of associate members. Well done, Membership Secretary. 

Finally, I would like to thank the Branch President and Branch Officers for their support throughout the year. To the Committee members, and others who carry out such tasks as cleaning, catering and bar duties, I would like to say , thank you. Without your help the Branch would not run smoothly. 

John Sloan, Honorary Chairman
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SECRETARY'S REPORT

My year, like that of all officers, starts and ends with the AGM, but unlike the other officers, my year is laid out for me. Once I have the AGM out of the way I have twelve other monthly meetings to arrange, an Annual Luncheon, an Annual Dinner Dance, and a church service. 

The first "Official" event this year was the Annual Luncheon which once more was held at the Beechwood Close Hotel, and like the previous two years that we have held it there, numbers kept up, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We had hoped that the marquee kindly donated to the Branch by Mel Smith could have been erected on the hotel lawn for all to see, but management would not grant permission, as the lawn is laid out for putting. We have booked this venue once again for Sunday 14th July next. 

The next event was our Annual Church Service, sadly as in previous years, numbers to this service have fallen dramatically, with only seven members being in attendance. This was discussed in Decembers Committee Meeting, and a vote was taken that we remove this service from the Branch calendar. This I have done. 

Next item up was our Annual Dinner Dance. This year we had a change of venue. This was forced on us by the Racecourse demanding, as far back as February, a £250.00 non returnable deposit, and as you are aware the event was held in the Officers Mess, RAF Linton on Ouse. I am very happy to state that instead of the numbers dropping, which they had been doing at the racecourse, we were actually exactly 50% up on the previous year with a capacity of 92 being reached. This I must admit did give me a great feeling of satisfaction, seeing one of our functions actually increasing in attendance. Naturally, on instruction from committee, and a good number of the members who attended, I have re booked the same venue for the 25th October 2002. May I now finish by thanking all who supported our various events throughout the year, and may I wish each one of you a Very Happy and Prosperous New Year. 

John Sutherland, Honorary Secretary.
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WELFARE OFFICERS' REPORT

This year has not brought the anticipated vast increase in cases which the advancing years of so many ex-service personnel in our catchment area seemed to indicate. Nevertheless, we have both been kept busy, some 65 visits having been carried out. Once again there have been numerous applications for places at Rothbury House, and, as usual, all who have been came back refreshed in both body and mind. We cannot
praise too highly House Manager, Audrey Shell and her staff; they excel in affording TLC. Some of us were fortunate enough to pay a visit there on the occasion of our presentation of a cheque for £1000, and we all came away with the knowledge that any effort on behalf of that haven in a busy world will have been worthwhile. At present, we in York Branch are in the process of purchasing an electrically-powered wheelchair for use at Rothbury, the cost of this being in excess of £2500.

At the beginning of the year, seven people were in receipt of Maintenance Grants, but one has now been discontinued because of a slight improvement in the financial situation of that person. This is an example of the close scrutiny that is paid to the reports and financial assessments that we generate. In addition to the Grant,
which varies from £5 to £15 per week according to circumstances, all recipients also receive a Special Needs Grant, which can be as much as £260. They may spend this on whatever they wish, but we are occasionally able to obtain much larger specific grants for such things as a VCR (for a housebound person), Road Fund Tax, Gas boiler replacement, interior or exterior decoration and, within the last two months, two electrically-powered scooters. To enable operation of one of these incurred the additional expense of battery-charging circuit installation, and a concrete hardstanding.

One very satisfying case involved a request for a "Lightwriter," an electronic aid which enables someone suffering from a severe speech defect to spell out their conversations. In this instance, an unexpected source of funding from the NHS finally met the full bill, but we were proud to have been involved when the full benefits of the machine were witnessed in that household. Rent assessments for those occupying RAFBF houses have also formed part of our programme, as have visits to the sick. Another satisfying case resulted in the clearance of massive debts incurred by one family due to the husband being seriously ill.

With the Associations finances now seeming to be in a far from satisfactory state, we must more than ever look to other agencies for funding prior to the RAFA/RAFBF giving help. Thus, in addition to obtaining DSS Benefits, we have received most generous donations from the Railway Benevolent Institution and the Rowland Hill Fund to name but two. All of this of course means more paperwork for the two of us. 

One example of the use of Welfare Funds to the advantage of many is the installation of the stair lift in the Branch HQ, thus enabling physically handicapped members to continue to lend their support to our meetings and fund-raising. Some £4,000 (excluding cost of the Electrically Powered Chair for Rothbury House) has
been utilized from Branch Funds, with £25,000 being dispensed on behalf of the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund.

This is but a superficial overview of the year's work, recipient's details remaining confidential, of course, but it is a pity that all of you who go and rattle tins on wet and draughty street corners cannot witness the joy that your aid brings to people.

This report would not be complete without us expressing our gratitude to John Hartley, Chris Gilding, Alan Robson, and all the ladies at Area HQ. The latter have now been augmented by the appointment of Alison Bonner as HWO Support Officer. It will fall to her to decide the amount people will in future pay to stay at Rothbury. The current financial crisis has given rise to closer examination of the cost of our Convalescent / Respite Care Homes, and in future people can expect to pay up to £270 as opposed to the current £180. The decision as to how much an applicant can afford is no longer taken by the HWO - who will continue to carry out the financial assessment - but all paperwork will then be forwarded to Area for them to make the final decision. Thanks are also due to Tracey Franks who, as a "free-standing" HWO, takes care of the RBL's Campbell Court, at Osbaldwick. May we conclude by expressing our gratitude for the support of the President, Chairmen, Committee of the Branch, and all who put in such a magnificent effort for the "Wings Appeal."

Norman Spence, John Allison

WINGS APPEAL REPORT 2001

The added incentive of having McArthur Glen on board this year filled a gap in the Wings Appeal programme, and it's thanks to one of our members who is on the Board at McArthur Glen for allowing us to collect. The figure of £568 was below what I expected for such a busy shopping centre, but we did not have as many folk collecting as was expected, so beggars cannot be choosers as they say. With the GNER York Station again an excellent collection with just over £1000 in the six days we were there. Needless to say I am trying to persuade the management to let us go in again next year.

Earlier in the year, a few members stood outside Tesco at Clifton and collected a super total of £482.00, and with two collections at Wyevale bringing in another £340.00 we had a very good start to the year. Coppergate Centre was yet another success with nearly £400, Sainsbury's however was unfortunately down on the previous year, but still with a collection of £90 it was a good effort. Ken Whitfield's ‘Team' brought yet another success collecting £661 around the Clubs in the City. Stan Adams at Pocklington never ceases to amaze me, even though he has knee problems, along with others, he still manages a couple of days collecting at the nearby Supermarket. This year he alone collected some £484.00.

The York City Wings Day saw a good few members out collecting and were rewarded with a total of £1404.00, a really good effort. With a donation of £666.00 from RAF Linton and our Helping Hand envelopes bringing in a further £455.00, our final total was just over £10000.00

May I take this opportunity to thank everyone for their efforts, and I look forward to being involved again in 2002. My best wishes to all Branch Members.

John Allison
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MEMBERSHIP REPORT 2001

Membership and Welfare are the major priorities of the Assocation, and it has been my task to ensure that the Membership of York Branch has been kept up to date, and to make sure new members are registered with the Association CHQ in London, via our NE Area Office. In 2001, a number of changes were made to the administration of membership, and this will also be the case in 2002.

Early in 2001, the National Membership was down to around 93,000, but an additional 7000 influx of Associate and ROCA members brought us back in line where the Association felt membership figures should be. The issue is to keep it at that figure, or go one better and increase it during 2002. It is important therefore that every member of every Branch concentrates on making attempts to encourage new members to join the Association, - that includes our own. 

From a Branch view, 2001 has had a mixed year, with the loss, sadly, of several of our members, two of particular note were Joe Wilkinson, and Cora Calvert, - on saying this, every member we lose is missed. On a more positive note, we have had new members join us during the year, with a free half year playing a role in the administration. It is good to see one or two of those new members at Branch functions. Of course it would be very nice to see a few more members visiting the Branch on a regular basis, not just to increase the Bar takings, but to take part in the Branch activities.

Having an overall total of 462 members as at 31st December 2001, we are still the largest Branch in the North East Area, but in real terms the active membership is a very small percentage of that figure. With the installation of a Stair Lift at Aldwark, it still has had little effect in getting our absent friends back. The concern, which is also a Welfare one, is that many of our members may be so ill, they are unable to come to the HQ, but without contact it is an exceptionally difficult task to overcome. Relatives of members may be able to help, by giving us a call, or writing to us, advising the Branch of the health and welfare of their loved ones. 

I have already advised members that Annual Subscriptions are due NOW for 2002, unless you have a period of time on a 4 year membership still running, or a Life Membership. Membership fees are being reviewed in 2002, and are likely to increase in 2003. Make the most of the current rate, and try to encourage people to join us, don't forget there is a Branch Associate Membership available at £4.75 for new members. Forms are
available from the Branch, or by contacting me. May I extend my best wishes to all members.

Kath Allison. Membership Secretary

TREASURER'S REPORT

Here we go again! Another year gone by and the Branch/Club still keeps marching on. Again it is my pleasure to report that our accounts show a healthy credit balance; something others may well wish for. 2001 has been a very good year for the Branch. The Battle of Britain Golf Tournament, once again being held at Easingwold Golf Club, was a great success. This event goes from strength to strength, thanks to the huge amount of work that Mike Brown dedicates to the organisation before, on the day, and afterwards, tying up all the loose ends.

Another excellent means of fund raising for the Branch this year has been the new style of memorabilia offered for sale by the Branch. Even though badly hit by the Foot and Mouth crisis, Marianne Sutherland and her team of enthusiastic helpers have raised a large amount of much needed cash for Branch funds by attending various shows, markets and other sites during the year.

The Branch was also left a very large legacy during the year, and this will be put to good use during 2002 for the benefit of all Branch members. The Club continues to keep ahead of costs with its income "over the bar," and fortunately, during 2001, these have actually increased, despite the following. The Club also has a small income from donations made by other organisations who make use of the facilities offered by our Aldwark premises. This has sadly now dropped to just two, so if anyone knows of a group of people looking for suitable premises, please contact any member of the committee. And do bear in mind the fact that we now have a chair-lift. 

During the year the Branch has made two contributions to Rothbury House, one of which was the presentation of an electric wheelchair. Funding for these came from the Welfare Account. 

Finally, my thanks to the Chairman, all members of the Committee, and to all Members of the Branch for their support during 2001. My best wishes to you all for this year.

Jack Kilvington, Honorary Treasurer
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ENTERTAINMENT & ACTIVITIES REPORT

As with the organisation of most other of the clubs' activities, it is a bit of a struggle to try and get members involved. For instance, 2001 was a very poor year as far as dining-in went; on only five occasions were we able to find people willing to volunteer their services to prepare the meal - basically three groups of people! I
feel that the dining-in nights are important to the club, and they are popular - rarely is the list of diners under-subscribed - so can we please try to remedy the kitchen side of the situation in 2002; dig up enough chefs to enable us to restore the full twelve month schedule, even if it only amounts to having the food delivered from a local take-away. The same thing goes for the ladies who time and again magically produce the buffets we are called upon to provide on various occasions throughout the year. Somehow they always come through, and do a magnificent job, but they too need to see new faces helping out. 

On the home front, visits to the club by other branches have been a bit thin on the ground - we visited Harrogate in May, they reciprocated in August - but there have been some memorable evenings when we played host to the ATC (110 City of York Sqn), and those fellows (the Future Pilots) from RAF Linton-on-Ouse. There have been slide-shows, various presentation evenings, Peter Carmichael twice conducted us on his popular tours of the city, and the year finished with a well-attended visit to Fairfax House, and our annual prize draw. 

Away days included visits to the Red Arrows' Scampton base, Hendon and the London Eye, Coningsby etc, and in June, an excellent European mini-tour of sites connected with the RAF in WWII (mini only in the number of members participating). All in all, not a bad year. 

In 2002 we are hoping to do much better, but this is up to you, the members. Please keep an eye on the notice board, and the Aldwark Chronicle. In my capacity as editor, I must say it really is encouraging to receive phone calls, letters and e-mails in reference to production the Chronicle, even the odd donation
we've had to help us out. But thanks must really go to the printers at RAF Linton-on-Ouse who have devoted their time and energy to this, considerably easing the burden on Branch funds. Thanks are extended to others of the entertainments group: Fred Ullathorne and Les Quigley, for their help in the organisation of various events and facilities. It is via Les' organisation, and generosity, that we are able to boast of such an excellent
website.

Dave Taylor, Fred Ullathorne
Entertainment group
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MEMORABILIA

The year started off full of promise. We had the new marquee which Mel Smith kindly donated to us. I had looked around at all the local "Country Fair's" and had booked into the majority of them. Then came along Foot and Mouth, and knocked the feet from under us, the vast majority of the fairs that we had booked into being cancelled due to the crisis. But we did have some success during the year. We managed to get into the Real Aeroplane Company's monthly fly-in's at Breighton Airfield, where although we only made between £50-60 worth of sales each time, gave us valuable experience, and showed what would or would not sell.

Our first real success came when we were on holiday in France, and Jack and Winnie Kilvington donned their sales hat's and manned the stall at the Poppleton Gala. In a matter of four hours they sold more than £200 worth of goods. As the average price of the items they sold was about 50p you can tell how busy they were, not even having time for a cuppa or even a "Comfort Break" Next time we must have more helpers at this event.

Our next outing was to the Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington, where we were allowed to put up our stall. As the majority of the goods we normally sell would be in direct competition with the museum shop, we were limited to goods supplied by RAFATRAD, but we still managed sales into the three figures. Next came the Giant Model Show on August Bank Holiday at Rufforth, where over the three day's we sold more than £800.00 worth of goods. My husband, who had been on the gate all day actually had to give up his Saturday evening, going to our suppliers to restock.

Our open day at the club in early December gave us another three figure sum into the kitty, then we had what we hoped would be a money spinner for us. The City of York Council were allowing charities to have a stall in Newgate market on Sunday's. Just before Christmas, we thought that this would be a winner. "Wrong!" Mel, John and I spent two very cold Sundays standing in York market for a total of £110.00, less £19.00 for the stall. This is one experiment that we will not repeat. 

In looking back over the year, I must say that although let down by foot and mouth, we have had a successful year swelling the Branch funds by over £500.00, and averaging our profits out at between 25 - 30% which you will agree is a lot better than the 10% allowed by selling only "Official" RAFA goods.

May I finish by thanking all who helped throughout the year, Winnie & Jack Kilvington, Mel Smith & Jean Hearn, Dave Taylor and Fred Ullathorne, and especially my long suffering husband, who has on a regular basis to give up his time to run me to show's, load and unload the car, and run me about for supplies.

Marianne Sutherland, Memorabilia Organiser
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HOUSE REPORT

There was no report of House news last year so some of my information will cover the previous year.
The hanging sign above the entrance door was found to have rotted at the base; on inspection, was found to be beyond repair, so I made a new one. We were fortunate in being able to employ an experienced sign writer, who made a good job of the paint-work. We are in the process of getting estimates for new guttering to the rear of the building, pointing to the chimney stack, checking for dampness to wall and replacing
roof tiles where required. Thanks to all who have helped, especially the group who cleaned up downstairs, fitted shelving, and moved the Wings collecting boxes to another room.

Alf Eyeington

YORKSHIRE EASTERN REGION

York Branch continues to give 100% support to the Region. York Branch delegates regularly attend their monthly meetings, and indeed, continue to fill a majority of Regional Officer's posts: Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer. Whilst Region cannot dictate to, or control the activities of Branches, the meetings continue to be a platform on which Branches can discuss and exchange views on items of general interest. Social visits between Branches are important but, because of the distances between Branches, are often difficult to arrange. York Branch can take pride in the fact that it does much of the work in encouraging these visits.

The next social event will be the Region Annual Dinner and Dance. This will be held at the Links Golf Club, Bridlington, on Saturday March 23rd, 2002. It is hoped that York Branch members will support this event; details will be posted on the Branch notice board.

John Sloan

BAR REPORT

Being one of the prime sources of Club funds, I am most grateful to all attendees at the club for contributing towards what has proved to be another successful year. Bar takings are up over ten percent, the recently introduced, 18.7cl bottles of red and white wine, proving to be very popular.

The additional opening hours - first Saturday of the month, 11:00 to 15:00 - have also had a bearing on our success; rarely seen members occasionally putting in an appearance. I thank you all on behalf of our hard-working bar staff. So what is it like to be on the bar roster, turning up in all weathers to greet members with a smile and service? (And on the rare Saturday night, turning up to greet almost no one but oneself!) As a member, have you got what it takes to join those who stand behind the bar, and have an enjoyable evening with old friends, perhaps making new ones?

If you can spare the time on a Thursday or Saturday evening, why not give it a go?

Ken Whitfield, Bar Manager
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THANK YOU

To the N.E. Area Director and staff for their continued support throughout the year.

To the Officer Commanding RAF Linton-on-Ouse for allowing us use of the Officers' Mess for our Annual Dinner, and his support during the whole of 2001.

To Easingwold Golf Club for allowing the use of their course for our Lord Deramore Battle of Britain Golf Tournament.

To those commercial enterprises that kindly made individual donations to our Wings Appeal.

To the ladies who never fail to rally to the cause, often it seems at twelve hours notice, whenever refreshments are called for.

Finally, to any others who have been inadvertently missed out. 

Thank you all,
sincerely.
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DINNER/DANCE 2002

The 2002 YORK BRANCH RAFA ANNUAL DINNER and DANCE is scheduled to be held in the Officers' Mess, Royal Air Force Linton-on-Ouse, Friday October 25th 2002. 7:30 for 8:00pm.

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Last modified: March 10, 2002