Veterans Day was sprung on us suddenly last year for the first time.

It will however be a permanent fixture in the Calendar with lots of events being organised each June 26, so if you are doing something special let me know.

Thanks to the Telegraph & Argus the veterans have a contact point and the local authorities know they can reach ex-service personnel quickly. There is money available from MoD to help with costs of marching bands. The Veterans Agency on 0800 169 2277 has details.

  • Convoy Escort Base: Information is sought about HMS Western Isles, the base at Tobermory on Mull in the Second World War. This is where 1,300 crews were trained to man 911 ships of Allied Navies to combat the U-boat menace. Does anyone one know where details are kept of ships and crews? Call David Morgan on 01309 672876.
  • Royal Artillery: The 49th Field Regiment are holding their annual reunion in March 2007 at the Hackets York House Hotel, North Shore, Blackpool. Ring 01253 351465 for details.
  • RAF: The 24th Squadron Association is looking for new members. They have a reunion each year at RAF Lyneham and a newsletter www.24sqdassociation.royalairforce.net is their e-mail address.
  • Bell Collectors: A man in Jersey has a bell made of gun metal 7.5in high and 7in across the base. Cast into the side are the words PS GRAF SPEE and the date 1939. On the side is a foundry mark which looks like an eagle. If anyone can tell him anything about it he would be very grateful. Write to John Hailey, 1A, Ashurst Walk, Croydon, Surrey. CRO 7JX, or call 020 8406 5415.
DIARY DATES

Today: Royal Marines' Association meets in the Dovesdale Club at 19.30hrs. Parachute Regiment meets in Thornbury Barracks at 20.00hrs. Bradford Central Branch of the Royal British Legion meets in Bursey House Claremont at 19.30hrs. British Korean Veterans (West Yorkshire) meet in the North Bridge Leisure Centre Halifax at 19.30hrs.

Tomorrow: RAF Association meets in Claremont at 14.00hrs. R.B.L. Bingley Branch meets at 19.00hrs 20, Heath Street, Bingley.

Thursday: Commandos Club 9 W.Yorks meets in the Polish Catholic Club Leeds at noon. RMP meets in the Royal British Legion Club in Pudsey at 20.00hrs. Burma Star Association Committee meets in Lilycroft working men's club at 20.00hrs.

Friday: RAF Regiment meets in Thornbury Barracks at 19.30hrs.

Monday, January 8: REME Association meets in Slackside working men's club, Wibsey, at 20.00hrs. WRAC Bradford branch meets in Bursey House Claremont at 13.00hrs.

  • Let me have details of your diary dates for 2007, especially any changes. We have had four new entries recently.