NOVEMBER has been a busy month for the Hereford branch of RAFA. Members joined ranks with other ex-RAF organisations on the Remembrance Parade in Hereford, led by the Branch Standard carried by Tom Fitch. On November 12, the branch, was represented by Derek Parsons, Jan Mason, Sheena Wigmore and Mike Wigmore at a quiz night against a team from the Royal Naval Association. The RAFA sought revenge for their defeat earlier in the year and this time were successful in pipping the Senior Service at the post. A few nights later in another competition, this time at skittles, the RAFA men's team defeated the RNA men's team but the ladies were well and truly beaten. After both events the chairman, Mike Wigmore, thanked the RNA for their congenial hospitality and a special thank you to the members who provided the excellent buffet suppers.

At the regular monthly meeting, the branch welcomed guest speaker, Mr Terry Bullingham. Terry was a CPO in the Fleet Air Arm during the Falklands Campaign and received serious injuries when he was hit by a cannon shell fired from an Argentinean Mirage jet whilst on the flight deck of HMS Antrim. He spoke about his life before and after this devastating event. His injuries resulted in him being the only serviceman in the Falklands War to suffer complete loss of sight. Following months of surgery and recuperation he was retrained with St Dunstan's, an organisation, which cares for blind ex-service men and women. He related how during his early days at St Dunstan's he was taken under the wing of several colleagues who had lost their sight in WW1 and WW2 and who helped him come to terms with his disability. He has since trained as a Technical Officer for the blind and is also a fully-qualified Social Worker. His loss of sight has not stopped him enjoying other pastimes. He is a keen race walker and enjoys tandem cycling and hill walking with his wife Maria. During the meeting a minutes silence was held in memory of Maurice Wilsden. Maurice was a very active Associate Member and had raised money for the branch selling used postage stamps.

A carol service was held on Friday, December 5, at the Railway Club at 7pm, when members of the RNA, RBL, and the local Sea Cadets and Air Cadets joined in song with RAFA. Following the service mulled wine and mince pies were served.

The next branch meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 17, and will be the Christmas Dinner. Dinner will be served at 8pm, followed by entertainment by the St John's Brass Ensemble. Bring along a little wrapped gift for the raffle. Tickets are available from Mike Wigmore on 01432 356756 and cost £8 each.

Members are reminded that subscription will be due on January 1, 2004, and prompt payment would be appreciated. Associate members should not that their subscription has been increased to £4 per year.

Further details of the work and organisation of the RAFA can be obtained from the chairman on 01432 356756 or the secretary on 01432 268259 or visit the RAFA web site at www.rafa.org.uk