This is my first column for Ex-Service Notes and I would first of all like to thank previous editor Bill Lee for all the work he has done for the Ex-Service community over the last 15 years and wish him all the very best for the future in his new home. I hope that you will all give me the same support you have shown him in the past.

I was born in Bradford and attended St Bede’s Grammar School. I served my time as an apprentice bricklayer and joined the Corps of Royal Engineers in 1977, serving in various parts of the world, including Northern Ireland and Germany.

I eventually reached the rank of WO1 and was commissioned as a late entry officer in 2005.

Some of you will have met me at various events over the years including Remembrance Day and ArmedForces/ Veterans Day. I would be happy to hear from you regarding anything you think would be appropriate to put in the column, it is after all, your news, please give at least 2 weeks notice, if possible, for diary dates.

  • The tenth Bergelen Veterans Association reunion will be held at the Cavendish Hotel, Torquay, from September 17 to September 20. Applications will be restricted to the first 100 members who apply. Apply via the website at www.bergenvets.org or to the secretary, Cyril Harding, at 14 Park Close, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5SU.
  • The Italy Star Association 1943-1945 has asked for veterans to get in touch – contact the national secretary on 020 82410275 if you served in the Italian military campaign.

DIARY DATES: Today: The Royal Marines Association will be holding a social evening. The parachute Regiment meets in Thornbury barracks at 20.00 hours. West Yorkshire branch British Korean Veterans meets in Northbridge Leisure Centre at 20.00 hours.

Wednesday: RAF Association meets in Unit 16, Listerhills Science Park, at 13.00 hours. Royal British Legion, Bingley branch, meets at 20 Heath Street, Bingley, at 19.00 hours.

Thursday: Royal Military police meets at Pudsey Royal British Legion club at 20.00 hours.

Friday: RAF Regiment Association meets at Thornbury barracks at 19.30 hours.

Monday: REME Association meets at Slackside WMC, Wibsey, at 19.30 hours.