The RGBW Regimental Association - Blog posts from Events

News From The RGBW Association

Gorazde Memorial update

This will be my final report on this but of course, please let me know if you have any questions. I have added a bit of detail which will hopefully be of interest to some of the readers of the newsletter who served in Gorazde, and whom may even wish to return themselves. I have copied in a number - who have been close to this over recent years. 

  • 22-25 Apr 2026: Ian Harris (OC A Coy 1994) and  Jerry Biggs (OC 3 Platoon 1994/95  - Ben Hinton’s Platoon Commander) visited Bosnia including Gorazde. 
  • Over recent months, and as reported in previous RGBW Association newsletters, the lower memorial for Phillip Armstrong,  Martin Dowdell and Chris Turner has been moved to be combined with the upper memorial to Ben Hinton.
  • The main purpose of this trip was to complete this 'relocation’ project by fixing an ‘explanatory’ brass plate to the now ‘combined’ memorial and to lay a wreath.
  • The memorial location is at the A Coy UNPROFOR OP7 location on the side of the ’new’ road from Gorazde to Sarajevo. The Gorazde Children’s Foundation (GCF) memorial (opened in May 2023) to all six UK soldiers killed in Gorazde, including to our four RGBW, is located next to this memorial. 
  • Although Ian Harris has revisted the area many times since 1994, this was the first time that Jerry had returned since he left Gorazde in early 1995 - 31 years ago! So inevitably, this was also a bit of a 'battlefield tour’ with the intent to visit as much as possible, to meet and chat with as many locals as we could, prompted by showing my 1994 photos. There was plenty of story telling along the way!    
  • Itinerary (an ideal basis for those interested in visiting):   
    • 22 Apr: Travel UK to Sarajevo. Visit the Sarajevo seige Tunnel Museum 
    • 23 Apr:
      • Travel (hire car) from Sarajevo to Gorazde - the long way (the 1994/95 UNPROFOR convoy route!) via the infamous Rogatica town (1994/95 Serb checkpoint site), and Visegrad (Bridge over the Drina).
      • Gorazde: Visit of the RGBW / UNPROFOR site of ‘Cotswold Camp - including the bus station (A Coy base). Chatted with staff whose fathers had been in the Bosnian Army within Gorazde with us. 
      • Familiarisation of  the town and the vicinity including ‘Factory Valley' - and the two sites of the RGBW vehicle incidents. 
      • Met with an impressive young local Gorazde politician. He was the son of a local Bosnian Army commander who served within Gorazde during our UNPROFOR tour.  He is now involved in bottling water from a mountain spring close to our memorial (OP7) site and distributing it further afield within Bosnia. 
    • 24 Apr: 
      • Further local visits and ‘story telling’ around our 1994/95 locations.
      • Main focus: Attached the engraved brass plate on the rear of the newly combined RGBW memorial, lay a wreath and paid our respects.
      • Return to Sarajevo via the ‘short’ route and the town of Pale. 
      • ‘Battlefield tour’ of Sarajevo, including visiting The Seige of Sarajevo museum and the Genocide museum
    • 25 Apr - depart to UK
  • My thanks to:
    • The RGBW Regimental Association for its generous grant towards the memorial relocation cost, and for the provision of a RGBW wreath.
    • The Gorazde Children’s Foundation charity (started by ex-RGBW Maurice Evelyn-Bufton) for their support in sourcing in-country labour to conduct the physical relocation and refurbishment of the memorial.
    • Personal contacts of Ian Harris, especially Muki (a Gorazde / Sarajevo) local, who for over 20 years has supported me in the establishment and maintenance of our RGBW memorials in Gorazde. 
  • Updates are on the Facebook 'RGBW Gorazde' site.
  • Finally, for any reader who may be considering a similar return to Gorazde including Sarajevo and Visegrad, Ian is very happy to help with advice, maps, and recommendations for travel/flights, car hire, accommodation, and local contacts etc. It is a safe, interesting, cheap and beautiful country to revisit and explore. I’m available on  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  

 

Regards. Ian Harris: 26th Apr 2026

 

IMJIN 75
The 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Imjin River
Saturday 25 April 2026

 
 

The Gloucestershire Regiment Memorial, unveiled on 25th September 2024

https://www.glostersmemorial.co.uk

 

In April 1951, the 1st Battalion the Gloucestershire Regiment (Glosters) fought a desperate 4-day battle at the battle of Imjin River, in South Korea, to slow the advance of the Chinese 63rd Army. By the end of the battle the Chinese had suffered 11,000 casualties, the invasion was stalled, and the capital (Seoul) saved – but at great cost. A full description may be found here

At Noon on Saturday 25th April 2026 – 75 years, to the day after, the battle ended – a commemoration service will be conducted by the Revd Andy Grant Late Glosters, at the Glosters Memorial, located in The National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire.

Following the service, attendees will retire for a complimentary hot buffet lunch at the Aspects Pavillion, where they can catch up with old friends, and share memories.

Veterans of the Glosters, successor regiments, their families and selected guests are cordially invited to attend. Please register with Captain Len Keeling, giving the information listed below, either by email or using the form below, to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Those who wish to travel to the NMA by coach should indicate this on the booking form, giving number of seats required.  The Coaches (complimentary) will depart at 9am from the Army Reserve Centre, Gloucester located here. (Attendees’ vehicles can be left in that location – please allow time to park). At 4 pm, the Coaches will depart the NMA, returning to the Army Reserve Centre, Gloucester. (One coach will have wheelchair access and toilets)

Attendees travelling in their own vehicles are advised to reserve a car parking space at the NMA. Early bookings will attract a discount. Register online here

The deadline for registration is Fri 10 Apr 2026.

We look forward very much indeed to seeing as many as can make it, for what will be a unique and unforgettable, historic occasion.

Yours sincerely

Richard James, Len Keeling & Martin Vine
The Gloucestershire Regiment Memorial Trustees

1.  Introduction: Finally, we can hold the Reunion on Back Badge Day 21st March 2026 in the WOs & Sgts Mess at Imjin Barracks Innsworth Gloucester GL113 1HW.


2. Anyone who has worn, or wears the Back Badge, and their guests, are welcome to attend. Any widows are also encouraged to attend.
3. Please Note: To gain access into the Barracks we intend to hold a block booking system with the Guard Room to ensure speedy access. To that end could you please return vehicle details i.e. Make, Model and Registration Number. Drivers will be directed to the various car parks and disabled passengers may alight at the Mess Main Entrance, whether it be by private vehicle or taxi. There will be no access into the Barracks before 1300hrs.
4. Background: Some key points for the day include:
· Church Service at St Mary de Lode. The service will be conducted by The Rev Canon Nikki Arthy accompanied by ex-members of the Glosters Band and friends, led by Rojer Phelps. Standard Bearers will also be in attendance. Please Note those attending please be seated by 1115hrs, the service will commence at 1130hrs.
· Veterans March through the City. Immediately after the service, the Veterans and Gloucestershire ACF will form up under the Parade Marshal Mr Anthony Jones (TJ). The Parade will then proceed from Archdeacon Street and turning left into Westgate Street, wheeling right into Southgate Street and then right again into Longsmith Street where the parade will Fall Out.
· Transport. This will once again be supplied and driven by Mrs Shirley Casey to ferry from Church/Longsmith Street to Imjin Barracks. There will be a short delay between the two. Could you please annotate your transport requirements on the proforma.
· Gathering. On arrival at the WOs & Sgts Mess you will be checked in and given a seating plan and then directed to the bar waiting area to await the bugle call to proceed to the main hall for lunch. The mess caterers are arranging a three-course luncheon at a cost of £30.00 per person (see menu below), this includes an aperitif on arrival at the bar, a bottle of red wine and a bottle of white wine on each table. Please indicate your seating preference. The lounge bar will remain open after lunch until late and there will be a finger buffet provided for the night owls.
lease book early to avoid disappointment.
Menu: Starter: Chicken Terrine with Apricot and Pancetta
Main Course: Roasted Chicken with Roasted Herb New Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables
Dessert: Treacle Tart with Custard, Tea and Coffee
5. A collection will be taken for the raffle and various gratuities so please bring a little cash. I look forward to seeing you all there.
Yours sincerely
Len Keeling
E-Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Mobile: 07414 945062
Please pay by electronic transfer to: Gloucestershire Regimental Association
Sort Code: 30-99-50 Account No: 38239962
Please include a reference on payment: e.g. Smith x 3
Cheques made payable to: Gloucestershire Regimental Association
13 Sunnyside Park, Claines, Worcester, WR3 7SP
PLEASE E-MAIL OR POST THIS PROFORMA BY 6th MARCH 2026.
Your Name:
Name of Guests:
E-Mail:
Telephone:
Car Registration & Description:
Seating Preference:
All are encouraged to attend the Church Service beginning at 1130hrs and then participate in the march through Gloucester.
Will you attend the Church Service? Yes/No
Will you be marching? Yes/No
Do you need transport and if so, how many seats are required to Imjin Barracks:
Do you have any special dietary needs? If so, please make this clear and we shall do our best to meet your requirement.
I look forward to seeing you all there.

John Marsh writes:

"Many thanks to Norman for doing the ground work for our autumn meeting which will take place on Thursday 2 October 2025 at Upavon Golf Club - https://www.upavongolfclub.co.uk/
 


A slight change to our normal meetings as we will be having a sit down breakfast to start with, rather than just a bacon bap.
 
Cost is £45 (or £18 for club members). (The cost breakdown is £38 for coffee, breakfast and 18 holes of golf (£11 for members of Upavon Golf Club) plus £7 for prizes which will include £2 for a two’s competition)). Cash on the day please – this is great value on an interesting and deceptively tricky course.
 
Arrive for breakfast at 0930 hrs and 1st tee at 1056 hrs.
 
If you would like to play please respond ASAP, but NLT Friday 19 September."

On the 5 August 30 members from the Forest of Dean, Severn & Stroud Branches, including the County Chairman, embarked on a boat trip down the Brecon Canal lasting approximately two and a half hours.  We then were taken by coach to the Penderyn Distillery for a conducted tour and some sampling of their whisky/gin.  It turned out to be a fascinating visit and well worth a visit for those who have never been. 
 
Many bottles were purchased and the journey home was quite vociferous.  The whole day was organised by Rojer and Gill Phelps, chairman and treasurer of Forest of Dean Branch of the Association.

Salisbury City Council has invited the Association to take part in the city's Remembrance Sunday Parade at the War Memorial on Sunday 9 November followed by a Service at St. Thomas' Church.  Attendees are requested to form up on Avon Approach from 09:30 hours.  Once the Church Service is complete the Parade will reform and return to the Guildhall Square for the Royal British Legion address from the Guildhall steps before being dismissed at approximately 12:45 hours.


Major Nigel Walker and Captain Bill Sherman will attend and lay wreaths on behalf of the Regiment.  The council has asked how many of our members intend to join the Parade.  Those who wish to do so are requested to let the Secretary know as soon as possible by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Royal British Legion have declined our request to increase our allocation for the RBL Cenotaph Parade in Whitehall this year from 25 to our usual 30 places.  This is a direct consequence of the fact that only 18 members logged on to the RBL website in 2024 to claim their tickets.  This is particularly unfortunate since this year we have had 35 applicants, so presently we have 10 names on our reserve list.

The Secretary has emailed all those who have been allocated tickets as well as the 10 individuals who have not received tickets to confirm their status.  Those who have been allocated tickets for this year have until 29 September to complete their registration.  Joining instructions will be issued by the RBL by the end of October.

If, for any reason, someone who has a ticket is unable to attend, please let the Secretary know as soon as possible so that he can arrange for their ticket to be re-allocated to a member on the reserve list.

Cyprus Memorial Service - National Memorial Arboretum - Sunday 24 August 2025

Major Clyde Aylin, who served with 1st Battalion The Royal Berkshire Regiment in Cyprus during 1956 - 59, attended the Cyprus Veterans Memorial Service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire on 24 August.  He writes that "it was held to remember the 371 soldiers who died in this extraordinary war on two fronts - like elsewhere.  On the one hand the Eoka Ennosis campaign by the Greek Cypriots and on the other hand keeping the Greek and Turkish Cypriots from killing one another.  We additionally took part in riot control in Nicosia."

"Air Vice Marshall Sir Michael  Graydon made an excellent speech.  I was disappointed to be the only Royal Berkshire soldier attending along with one soldier fromthe Wiltshire Regiment who reminisced about his service in Kyrenia Castle.  The creation of the Arboretum is an amazing achievement and a visit is highly recommended.  Thanks largely to the efforts of the Air Vice Marshall, the RAF flew a four ton chunk of Troodos rock to the UK and had it engraved with all the units which had served in the campaign."

While leading a patrol as a young officer in October 1956, to underpin the Turkish police stations in Troodos in a Land-rover and Bedford truck, Major Aylin's patrol was ambushed by two massive bombs built in to the vertical cliff face beside the road, so as to blow our heads off as they drove by.  The bombs were detonated by three Greek Cypriots with a car battery.  The patrol all suffered flesh wounds, primarily from the tumultuous amount of rocks which fell on their heads.  Having ensured that field dressings were applied to the injured, Major Aylin set off along the road armed with a sten gun and revolver.  As an Army athlete who ran sub two minute half miles at the time he fully expected to intercept the terrorists.  The cliff was too steep to climb but he came to a gully and ran up it.  As he emerged on top of the plateau, there in front were the three assailants running away with the last man carrying the battery.  He fired a complete magazine from his sten gun and the trio went down.  Not sure if they were armed, he skirted round a knoll to his flank and lost sight of them.  Shortly afterwards an RAF helicopter with a tracker dog and his Turkish handler landed but, in the scorching dry mid October weather, the dog could not pick up the scent.  Apart from cuts to his head, Major Aylin recalls that his ears rang for days and he is now designated as profoundly deaf.

The Imjin Lunch 2026

The 75th Anniversary Commemorative Lunch for the Battle of the Imjin River is scheduled to take place at Taunton Rugby Football Club, Veritas Park, Hyde Lane, Bathpool, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8BU on Sunday, the 10th of May 2026 at 1200hrs for 1245hrs. This later-than-usual date is to avoid clashing with other national and international events taking place in April. We hope to make this the best Imjin Lunch event, befitting this 75th Anniversary, and we are planning special activities to mark this historic milestone.

The two-course carvery & dessert menu, including tea & coffee, is £20 per person, and whilst this is the first increase in three years, it is still extremely good value, thanks to being generously discounted by the Association.  Those who have been to this venue are familiar with the great food, friendly staff, comfortable surroundings, excellent ambience, and, of course, good company. There are disabled facilities, including a lift to the Hyde Suite. The venue is easy to find, just off J25 M5 and has parking for 250 cars.  There will also be a raffle held after lunch, so please bring along a suitable gift.  

This year, to allow maximum attendance and other functionality, all tables will be standard round 10-seaters.  Block bookings are still available, but as detailed above, limited to 10 per table. Due to the continued success of this event, early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment; we have been fully booked for the last three years.  To register your interest, please visit the following link to the Association Web Page which contains all the information on how to apply and pay for your tickets:

The RGBW Regimental Association - The Imjin Lunch

 

If you experience difficulties using the web page, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

If you have any questions about the event, please contact:   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

We look forward to seeing all our many friends in 2026 for the 75th Anniversary Imjin Lunch

 

Yours aye

Martin Talling

County Chairman Somerset

Somerset Festival of Remembrance at Wells Cathedral on 1 Nov

Join us for a powerful and moving evening of commemoration as Wells Cathedral hosts the Somerset Festival of Remembrance 2025, a one-off event marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  This is likely to be one of the very last occasions on which veterans who took part might be present. Organised by Somerset County Royal British Legion, this unique occasion will honour the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of Somerset’s people at home and abroad during World War II. The evening will feature music, stories, and ceremony, including performances by the Central Band of the Royal British Legion and the Yeovilton Military Wives Choir, contributions from the County's cadet forces and tributes from veterans and civic leaders. Highlights include parading the Somerset Book of Honour, an Act of Remembrance with poppy drop, and a multi-themed programme tracing Somerset’s wartime experience from mobilisation to liberation and legacy. The evening will be compered by former BBC broadcasters Clinton Rogers DL and Ali Vowles DL. This is a community-centred and inclusive event, both solemn and uplifting, and open to all. Early booking is advised. All proceeds support the Royal British Legion and Wells Cathedral.

 

Tickets are now available via the following Eventbrite link:  https://somerset-festival-of-remembrance-2025.eventbrite.co.uk/

2nd Battalion the Gloucestershire Regiment

Towns and villages all through Holland are celebrating the 80th anniversary of their liberation in WW2.  One of the largest celebrations is a weeklong set of activities in Roosendaal.  Educational films, displays, re-enactments, displays, marches and events took place from 26th Oct – 3rd Nov 2024.

The Glosters were part of the 49th Inf Div, nicknamed the polar bears, other units involved included the 4th Lincolns,1/4 KOYLI, Hallams Bn, 11th Royal Scots, 1 Leicesters,  1/7th DWR, 1 SWB, 2nd Essex and supported by 55, 69, 89, 143, 185 RA, 49 Sigs, 2nd Kensingtons and 9 RTR.  The division formed part of Monty’s drive up towards the ports of Rotterdam and Amsterdam and east towards Arnhem.

The RGBW Association was invited to take part in the celebrations at the end of the week to acknowledge the participation of the 2nd Battalion The Gloucestershire Regiment.  The townspeople of Roosendaal were extremely courteous and grateful for the handful of various association representatives from the UK to be in attendance.  They take their liberation extremely seriously; it is taught at an early age in schools and celebrated by all age groups.

On the first day, we were taken to “Camp Thruster” where there was a large display of military vehicles and equipments.  The enthusiasm and dedication were evident with many of them private collectors of equipment and memorabilia.  Most of the vehicles (over 20) were also in private hands after being lovingly restored over the decades.  The pride and joy of the display was an immaculate Churchill tank in full working order, the only private example in Europe.  During the evening, we were invited to a concert starring the Brentwood Imperial Youth Band, proudly wearing their Polar Bear badges.

Day two involved going around the Roosendaal area on a battlefield tour and meeting up with the local veterans in the town's first in/last out pub - Café De Veestallen.  This was the first building secured by the British forces on entering Roosendaal and remained undamaged throughout the war.  Most of the internal fitments and decor have remained unchanged since WW2 and are fitting to the loyal veterans' watering hole.  The various local army associations sadly closed over the years as their memberships declined, but one of the locals, a Colonel from the Dutch commandos, started an all-arms Roosendaal Association four years ago and it has now over 100 members around Roosendaal, from all services and units, a fantastic achievement,

After a liquid lunch the veterans from all countries fell in outside, standards raised to greet the columns of re-enactment vehicles and men, proudly led by the Churchill tank.  After falling in behind we all marched to the memorial square where the Polar Bear monument is located.  The band gave a rendition of wartime tunes, regimental marches and national anthems before the wreath-laying ceremony which was led by the Duke of Wellington Regiment and The Gloucestershire Regiment, followed by the mayor and all the various dignitaries and representatives. After the service was finished there was a photo shoot for about an hour (there were about 1000 locals in attendance) and then back to that famous pub for more food and drink.

Overall, It was a memorable visit for which I am extremely grateful to have been invited.  The locals take their liberation extremely seriously and is a foundation for their freedom and democracy.  I would like to thank the owners of the Tongerlo Hotel for their impeccable service and for spending so much time with us.  I am also grateful for the party from the Duke of Wellingtons who adopted me over the weekend.  Attached are several snaps made; I will add some of the professional pictures when they become available.   “By our deeds, we are known”   Martin Talling, County Chairman

Ladies & Gentlemen,

Please find attached invite to the Imjin Commemorative Lunch 2023 sponsored by the Somerset Branch, Rifles & Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Regimental Association. The invitation is open to all association members and Korean War veterans with their partners/chaperones and other branch invited local friends & guests.

This event has become increasingly popular over the years and in 2022 we maxed out our 140 seats, so please book early to avoid disappointment.

To ensure maximum publicity, this invitation will be sent out on the global mail distribution list and all associated Facebook sites. The following attachment is in PDF format for ease of reading/printing.

Best regards and take care

Martin Talling
Somerset Branch
Secretary & Treasurer
Rifles & RGBW Association

We are planning to hold the event once again at the Taunton Rugby Football Club, Veritas
Park, Hyde Lane, Bath pool, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8BU on Sunday 23 April 2023 at 1200hrs for 1230hrs.
The two-course carvery & dessert menu, including tea & coffee, is £15.00p per person, which
is extremely excellent value, thanks to being generously discounted by the Association.
Online payment by bank transfer is the preferred payment option but cheques will also be
accepted, full details are attached.
Those who have been before to this venue are familiar with the superb food, the friendly staff,
the comfortable surroundings, the excellent ambience, and of course good company. There
are disabled facilities including a lift to the Hyde Suite. There will also be a raffle held after
lunch so please bring along a suitable gift.
The venue is easy to find just off J25 M5 and has parking for 250 cars. Please purchase your
reservations in advance from our Secretary Martin Talling; a booking proforma is attached.
Due to the continued success of this event and its popularity increasing, early booking is
strongly advised to avoid disappointment. We are capped at 140 seats (fully booked last
year).

As previously, we are giving additional focus on tracking down as many Korean Veterans as
possible and getting them to this prestigious event. There will be plenty of people attending
from Cardiff, Forest of Dean, Gloucester, Bristol, Stroud, and all along the South Coast, so we
ask all association members to try and locate these heroes and get them to the lunch. Their
numbers are fewer every year so; so, let us make a year to remember these veterans


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If you wish to attend, then complete the form below or click the button below for the return


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  · 

For those who are unable to attend Major (QM) Douglas Clifford Mortimer's funeral and who would like to see the service there will be a webcast o the service: Details are as follows:

This email is confirmation that a webcast is required for the following service:

Name

Douglas Mortimer

Location

East Devon Crematorium, Whimple, Exeter - Default Chapel

Date & Time

Tuesday 22/11/2022 13:00

Requester

Martin Hunns - Walter H Squires & Son, Tiverton

Use the PIN number below to access your webcast

Webcast Login PIN

792-8113

https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view

Webcast Viewing Instructions are available here.

Please note that by sharing the secure PIN number you give full access to view the service and access the on-demand features. Your PIN number will be activated no earlier than 14 days before the service date.

Event Number

1148234 - please quote this on all correspondence and when calling

Thanks,

Wesley Media Team

With less than a month left before the Ferozeshah Gathering I am just putting out a reminder for those who intend to be there but have not yet confirmed it with me, and those who have said they are coming but have changed their minds for one reason or another.

The shopping for food has begun and I need firm numbers quickly or one of wo things is going to happen.

1 Those who turn up without informing me will not get fed, or

2 I will have paid for food for someone who has not turned up and it will leave me in be more in debt than I usually am, and somewhat disgruntled!

Please let me know either way with response to this post or better still a personal message via Facebook Messenger.

Thank you.

Norman.


Brock Barracks. Oxford Road. Reading. RG30 1 HW


Programme

Sunday 1 pm to 5pm to include: -
Memorial Service at the Cenotaph
March Past
2 Course Lunch
Cash Bar in the Dragon Club
Static Displays by 7 Rifles
Musical Event
Most of all come along and meet up with your old comrades and friends
The cost per person £12.50


Please support our Association


Further details & Booking Form contact
Mr David Smith e-mail: — 07785 950521


[easy_media_download url="https://www.rgbw-association.org.uk/downloads/maiwand22.pdf"]

Sunday 24th April 20221.   

It has been a long and hard two years since we were last able to organise an Imjin Commemorative Lunch. The dreaded COVID outbreak meant us cancelling the 70th-anniversary event, which was a huge disappointment for everyone. We are now planning the next occasion, which will again be held at Taunton Rugby Football Club, Veritas Park, Hyde Lane, Bathpool, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8BU on Sunday 24th April 2022 at 1200hrs for 1230hrs.

2.   The two-course carvery & dessert menu, including coffee, is £12.50p per person, which is extremely good value thanks to being generously discounted by the Association. Online payment by bank transfer is the preferred payment option but cheques will also be accepted, full details are attached.

3.   Those who have been before to this venue are familiar with the superb food, the friendly staff, comfortable surroundings, excellent ambience, and of course good company. There are disabled facilities including a lift to the Hyde Suite. There will also be a charity raffle held after the lunch so please bring along a suitable gift.

4.   The venue is easy to find just off J25 M5 and has parking for 250 cars. Directions from the M5 will be printed on your email ticket. Please purchase your tickets in advance from our Secretary Martin Talling, a booking proforma is attached. Further copies are available at the RGBW and Glosters Websites and bookings will close on 31st March 2022. This is a very popular event with a capacity seating limit, so early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment.

5.   As previously, we are giving additional focus on tracking down as many Korean Veterans as possible and getting them to this prestigious event. There will be plenty of people attending from Cardiff, Forest of Dean, Gloucester, Bristol, Stroud, Exeter and further afield; so, we ask all association members to try and locate these heroes and get them to the lunch. Their numbers are fewer every year so; let’s make a year to remember for these veterans.

“By our deeds, we are known”

 BOOKING PROFORMA PDF FORMAT (for those who want to print and post)

 BOOKING PROFORMA WORD FORMAT (for those who wish to edit and email)

 Martin Talling

Somerset Branch

Secretary & Treasurer

Rifles & RGBW Association

Tel:    01278787278

Mob:  07568377259

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Dragons Rest

Rosetree Paddock

Berrow

Somerset

TA8 2JP

  1. Introduction. It is intended to hold the Back Badge reunion this year on the 26th March at Walls social club , Hammond Way, Barnwood, Gloucester, GL43HG. As before a church service at St Marys deLode and subsequent march through Gloucester will precede the lunch and gathering.
  2. Background. Some key points for the day include:

  • Church Service at St Mary de Lode. The service will begin at 11.30 am. Please take your seats by 11.15 am. As before Canon Nikki Arty has kindly agreed to lead. All are most welcome and we plan on members of our former Regimental Band accompanying the service.
  • March through Gloucester. Form up under parade marshal Len Keeling near to the West door of the Church, on Archdeacon Street, and proceed to Westgate Street. The salute will be taken on the steps to Gloucestershire County Hall. The march continues along Westgate to Southgate Street before turning in to Longsmith Street. There participants will halt and fall out.
  • Transport. Mr Andy Casey is kindly making available transport to Walls Social Club from outside the Church and also Longsmith Street. If required, please annotate the proforma.

LIFTS Mrs Jenny McBryde will organise lifts from car owners with spare seats, drivers are requested to inform Jenny who will fill their seats.

  • Gathering. Walls Social Club is kindly arranging lunch at a most reasonable price of

£25.00 per head (same as 2020) for a three-course menu plus coffee or tea, a bottle of red and white wine will be available at each table for no extra charge.

  • Widows. The committee wish to encourage attendance by our regimental widows. Please try to bring along a widow or widower.
  • Standard Bearers at the Church. Please attend the brief rehearsal at 10.45 am.

  1. Participation. Those from the wider regimental family of Regulars, Reserves, Cadets, Association as well as key supporters from the community are encouraged to submit a proforma. Tickets will be issued in advance. Please assist in spreading the word to the widows of our comrades; the committee can facilitate attendance as regimental guests.
  2. Concluding Comment. Due to the various strains of covid we have been unable to proceed with our Back Badge reunion for the last 2 years so I’m sure everyone is ready for a nice break . We really look forward to seeing as many as possible at the Church Service, the March and for the lunch and gathering at Walls Social Club. I am most grateful to all of those that are helping to organise this very special occasion and thank you for your patience after 2 organised reunions had to be cancelled. Should anyone have any queries you are most welcome to contact me direct. Please now complete the attached proforma, as per the instructions, and spread the word. This will be a very special event this year folks, so come along. Those who left ticket payments from previous years will have nothing to pay and if you are unsure I hold the list and you can ring me.
  3. Ibis Hotel will not let me do any bookings due to some organisation who are taking over the whole hotel at this time, however, there is a premier inn close by and I will try to get a reduced rate for us there. Once I have I will publish on this means. We have missed you guys and look forward to seeing you, marching with you and catching up.

Yours sincerely, Len Keeling Tel: 07414 945062 ||
E-Mail: 
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FOR THE BOOKING PROFORMA CLICK HERE

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