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Happy New Year to All Branch Members
and their Partners
The Committee met this month (Jan 08) and the Diary of Events
for this year was organised. The committee came up a few ideas for some
of the meetings but as always at the February meeting everything is open
to discussion.
Below are a few points that you need to know before
the February meeting on the 7th February 2008 at the WO’s &
Sgt’s Mess MCTC
1.
On a sad note one of our newest members Pete Laing informed me
that his wife Tracy passed away after a long illness. The funeral will
be held on the Monday 21 January 2008 at the MCTC church at 1345 hrs and
then tea & coffee will be served in the WO’s & Sgt’s Mess MCTC. One of
Tracy’s wishes was that those attending the funeral wore something Red
that was visible. If you wish to attend please let me know before
Friday. You can leave a message on my answer machine or call me on my
Mobile (details below) or of course email me. I need to let Pete know by
the afternoon on Friday 18th January, how many and who is
attending for the security guards at MCTC.
2.
Please ensure that your annual subscriptions of £5.00 are paid to
our Treasurer Tony before March 2008. You can either send him the money
at his home address (listed below) or pay at the February meeting.
3.
Do you have a RMPA ID card? You will probably need one prior to
us returning to the WO’s & Sgt’s Mess 156 Pro Coy RMP in Goojerat
Barracks hopefully in April 2008. If you require an ID card please
supply me with a couple of passport photographs. You can either send
them to me (Address below) or hand them to me at the February meeting.
4.
Have you booked your places yet for our Weekend away at Gunton
Hall Lowestoft on the 19 – 22 September 2008? There are still some
places available total cost for the weekend will be £125 per person. If
you require any further details contact me and I will send you out some
information. You can bring as many guests as you would like. A deposit
of £50 per person needs to be sent to our Treasurer as soon as possible
Allan Adam
Honorary Branch Secretary
Colchester & East Anglia Branch
Royal Military Police Association
Secretary
Treasurer
Allan
Adam
Tony Antony
1 Annbrook Road
66 Layer Road
Ipswich
Colchester
IP2
9JN
CO1 7JN
Phone: 01473
681094 Phone: 01206
502052
MINUTES OF THE OF COLCHESTER
AND EAST ANGLIA BRANCH RMPA
HELD ON THURSDAY 07 FEBRUARY
2008 AT THE
WO’s & SGT’s MESS OF MCTC
COLCHESTER
President: Lt Col (Retd) Robbie Silk MBE
Chairman: Bill Pomery
Hon Secretary: Allan Adam
Treasurer: Tony Anthony
Members in Attendance: 30
Minute 1
The Secretary welcomed everyone back to the monthly
meetings and informed members that he had been advised that the main
gate to MCTC would be closing at 19.00 from now on. Everyone attending
will need to be in the Mess before 1900 hrs, if anyone is late they will
need to attend the Guardroom to gain entry. With this in mind whilst we
are still in MCTC the meetings will now commence at 1930 Hrs. It is
hoped that we will be back in the 156 Pro Coy RMP WO’s & SGT’s Mess by
April 2008 and at the very latest May 2008
Minute 2
The Secretary read out the Diary of Events for the
coming year to all members present, so that any amendments could be made
before the final draft was completed. Attempts will be made to include
extra visits to other attractions including a possible visit to
Southwick Park again, however this time it is hoped that the visit will
take place in the middle of the week.
Proposed by Allan Adam Seconded by Roy Hudson
Branch Vote Carried
Minute 3
The Chairman informed the members after some
deliberation with SEDEXO that the bill for the 2007 Annual Dinner had
now been paid. A copy of the letter that SEDEXO sent to the President
is available for members to read. Basically they stated that due to the
unscheduled speech by our President between courses resulted in the food
becoming cold, however they did not explain as to why it took over ten
minutes for the vegetables to come out and a further ten minutes for the
gravy to appear. Members can be assured that the President and the
Chairman tried their hardest to obtain some sort of refund but SEDEXO
would not budge. Luckily this year we will not have to worry as we are
going to Gunton Hall. We can only hope that things improve on our return
to 156 Pro Coy RMP WO’s & SGT’s Mess in the near future?
Minute 4
The Secretary proposed that the Barmaids who have
served us through out our stay in the MCTC Mess should be given a
bouquet of flowers each. It is also envisaged that the Mess will receive
an RMPA Plaque from the President on our last meeting The RSM will get a
Plaque
Proposed by Allan Adam Seconded by Bill Pomery
Branch Vote Carried
Minute 5
The treasurer informed the members present that
currently within the branch funds we had a total of £1161. This was
largely as a result of the following an overspend of £94.75 on the
annual dinner an underspend of £173 on the fish supper night and an
overall profit of £33.30 at the Xmas function. Members were also
reminded that Branch Fees are due and are still only £5.00 for the
year. Members will have until
the Branch meeting in April to pay their fees, after this they will not
receive any further correspondence from the Branch
Minute
6
Our
new Raffle coordinator Ray Hansen informed the Branch that he was
looking at new ways of the Branch sponsoring the monthly Raffles, in
that Branch members will volunteer to pay for the monthly raffle prize
not to exceed £15. All they have to do is inform Ray what they would
like to donate to the Raffle and Ray will purchase the prize and then
present the bill to the members sponsoring the raffle at the next
meeting. This way all the monies collected for the raffle on the night
will be able placed into the Branch funds, which will result in more
money for the Branch and more money for our elected charity once all
expenses have been paid.
Proposed by Ray Hansen Seconded by Pete Laing
Branch Vote Carried
Minute 7
Pete Laing informed the Branch that he was
overwhelmed by the turnout of the Branch members at his wife’s Tracy’s
funeral service and that it was very noticeable by all those present
when the Branch members left the service and donned their red berets.
Pete went on to thanks all those that attended and the support that he
has received from the Branch members.
Minute 8
The Secretary stated that he had received a letter
from Peter Simpson our ex President and he had stated that he sends his
regards to all Branch members and at present he is unable to attend any
of the Branch meeting for the foreseeable future but he does hope to
attend a meeting near the end of the year.
Minute 9
The Secretary along with Ron Holroyd informed the
Branch members present that they had been informed that Derrick Palmer
an ex member of the Branch had had a heart attack whilst on holiday in
Germany. Derrick has now been moved to a convalescent home near
Fallingbostel. Attempts had been made by the Secretary and 156 Pro Coy
RMP WO2 Steve Tickner for an RMP Unit to transport Derrick home to the
UK when he is ready. But this had been difficult to arrange. However Ron
stated that he had received correspondence from a friend of Derricks
that a local RMP Unit had been visiting him at the home and tat the RSM
of the unit would be willing to transport Derrick home when the time
came. Attempts will be made to find out more details prior to the next
meeting.
Minute 10
Gunton Hall updates
1.
The
Secretary then updated the members present about the trip to Gunton Hall
currently we have 130 persons attending the weekend but there is still
room for more if any member wishes to take additional guests, they must
let the Treasurer and the Secretary before the next Branch meeting on
Thursday 6th March 2008.
The cost is still only £125 per person attending.
2.
Additionally the Secretary has managed to organise a bus trip to
Norwich on the Saturday 20th
September primarily for the Ladies to have
a look around the shopping area and Saturday market in Norwich. The bus
would leave Gunton Hall at 1000 Hrs and then return approx 1630 Hrs
giving the ladies enough time to prepare for the Saturday night meal.
The cost will be £5 per person which members must pay to the Treasurer
by the July Branch Meeting. A total of 52 places are available for this
trip. However if more places are required the Secretary is sure that
another bus could be arranged.
3.
Not to leave the gentlemen out the Secretary is currently
attempting to negotiate with a Golf Club local to Gunton Hall for those
golf players to attend on the Saturday whilst the ladies are shopping.
Costs for the day to follow.
4.
The Secretary is looking to organise a boat trip along the
Norfolk Broads on the Sunday
21September again this will be an
additional cost to those attending the trip it is hoped that all details
will be available within the next couple of months.
5.
The Secretary along with the Deputy Chairman Brian Drake attended
Gunton Hall earlier this month and spoke with the manager who will be
looking after all our needs for the weekend. They have managed to
arrange that the Saturday Night Dinner will commence at 1930 Hrs and
finish approx 2130 hrs by this stage the majority of the other guests
will have departed the dining room it is then hoped that our Raffle will
then take place, prior to us attending the main ballroom where the
nights entertainment will commence at 2200 hrs.
It is requested at this stage that NO Raffle Prizes are brought by
members or their Guests as it is hoped that
the Gunton Hall Committee will have managed to obtain at least 10 prizes
for the night.
6.
The seating arrangements in the dining hall for the weekend have
been arranged to accommodate 8 persons per table. These tables will be
the member’s tables throughout the weekend for all meals including the
Saturday night Dinner. Members wishing to book their tables of 8 please
contact the Secretary before July
7.
No tables could be reserved within the main Ballroom for each of
the three nights that the entertainment on, it is a case of first come
first served. This is to ensure that the other guests attending Gunton
Hall for the weekend are given the same chances as our group to pick the
best seats in the Ballroom.
8.
A full programme of events will be produced by the Secretary
prior to members and their guests attending Gunton Hall. It must be made
clear at this stage if members or their guests do not wish to partake in
any activity organised by the Gunton Hall Committee then they do not
have to.
Any Other Business
Meeting Closed at 2040 Hrs
MINUTES OF THE OF COLCHESTER
AND EAST ANGLIA BRANCH RMPA
HELD ON THURSDAY 6 MARCH 2008
AT THE
WO’s & SGT’s MESS OF MCTC
COLCHESTER
President: Lt Col (Retd) Robbie Silk MBE
Chairman: Bill Pomery
Hon Secretary: Allan
Adam Treasurer: Tony Anthony
Members in Attendance: 30
Minute 1
The Chairman read out the minutes of the last meeting
held on 7th February 2008 and passed as a true and accurate record.
Proposed by Ray Hansen and seconded by Terry Priest
Minute
2
The secretary has stated that he has now collected
several photographs and will be sending them off shortly and is hoping
to get them back by next months meeting
Minute
3
The Secretary informed the members that a letter of
correspondence from Geoff Bryan stating that he and his wife would not
be attending the Gunton Hall weekend due to his wife’s disability but he
is donating his deposit to the Branch Funds. A letter will be sent to
Geoff thanking him for his donation
Minute
3
The Secretary stated that the Treasurer had handed
over a cheque for £200 to the Air Ambulance and that he had received a
letter of thanks for our donation.
Minute 4
The Treasurer informed the Branch that last months
Raffle was £58 and the fund is £1109 after the donation of £200 for Air
ambulance. Total members currently for this year is 30 which is down
from last year. Members are reminded that they need to pay their
subscriptions by the April meeting or they will no longer receive any
correspondence from the Branch
Minute
5
The Secretary thanked Betty Gibson for attending the
meeting with her sister. Betty had kindly donated some personal Military
items that belonged to Fred to the Branch. The Secretary deemed it
appropriate that for any members that wished to purchase any of these
items to make a kind donation to Branch Funds.
Minute 6
The Secretary has visited with Gunton Hall again and
has now organised the area that will be used for all our meals. He has
also managed to obtain permission to hang the Branch Standard along with
any other Standards that can be brought along on to the wall whilst we
have our meal on Saturday night and the meal will now commence at 2000
Hrs. There will be a photographer from Warners to take pictures of the
activities etc over the weekend. This will be included in their Magazine
which will be distributed to 20,000 people
Minute 7
The Chairman made a small speech to the two bar
staff, Helen and Fiona who have looked after us for the past 2 years
whilst we have been guests in the MCTC Mess. Fiona and Helen each
received a Bouquet of flowers from the Branch with our Thanks.
Minute
8
Ray Hansen informed the Branch that this months
Raffle was sponsored by The Secretary and was four bottles of wine. Next
months Raffle has been sponsored but we need a sponsor for May.
It does not have to be just one person to sponsor the
Raffle if a group of members wish to club together, as long as the
donation is covered up to a maximum of £15.
Minute 9
The President and Chairman informed the members that
we should be in the WO’S & SGT’S MESS at 156 PRO COY. The secretary
stated that he would be visiting the RSM during March and will inform
the Members of the outcome. See below for details
Minute 10
The Chairman informed the Branch that the new RSM for
156 Pro Coy RMPWO1 RSM Tony Neil was unable to attend the meeting but
hopefully will be attending the next meeting in April.
Meeting closed at 20.05
UPDATE
The
Secretary has visited the new RSM of 156 Pro Coy RMP WO1 RSM Tony Neil
and can report to the members that the RSM is more than happy for our
Branch to return to the WO’s & SGT’s Mess 156 Pro Coy RMP in Goojerat
Barracks as of the April Meeting. Members must ensure that they bring
along some form of Identity to produce to the gate guards this includes
any guests that they are bringing. It has been agreed by the RSM that
for the April meeting members will be able to enter the barracks without
a vehicle pass. However after this vehicle passes will be required The
RSM will be introducing himself to the Members on the April meeting and
will explain the procedure for obtaining vehicle passes. The secretary
will produce a spreadsheet for members to enter their vehicles details
on which will then be passed to the RSM.
MINUTES OF THE OF COLCHESTER
AND EAST ANGLIA BRANCH RMPA
HELD ON THURSDAY 3 APRIL 2008
AT THE
WO’s & SGT’s MESS 156 PROVOST
COMPANY GOJJERAT BARRACKS COLCHESTER
President: Lt Col (Retd) Robbie Silk MBE
Chairman: Bill Pomery
Hon Secretary: Allan
Adam Treasurer: Tony Anthony
Members & Guests in Attendance: 54
Minute 1
The Chairman read through the minutes of the last
meeting held on 6th March 2008
Minute
2
The New RSM WO1 Tony Neal explained to the Branch
members on the procedure on how to obtain a vehicle pass that will
enable them to enter the barracks for Branch meetings and functions.
Branch members then completed forms which were then returned to the RSM
who will pass on to the GSM for the passes to be authorised. The
President iterated that you must not display the pass outside the
Barracks
Minute 3
The Secretary informed members that he had not
received any correspondence this month apart from an article that
appeared in the Colchester Evening Gazette which stated that there was
memorial wall being restored to its former glory and the responsibility
of it restoration was down to the RMPA and even mentioned that they had
spoken to a representative of the Royal Military Police Association (RMPA).
On checking out the story it was discovered that we were not responsible
but if fact it was the main building contractors for the military bases
in Colchester, a consortium headed by Robert
McAlpine
(RMPA).
Minute
4
The Secretary stated that this year, Veterans Day
was on the 27th June 2008,
last year only three members were invited to attend, it is hope this
year that all members of the Branch will be invited. He also stated that
this is being followed by a Military band concert in the Castle Park
Colchester on the 29th
June there is a Band Concert in the Castle
Park
Minute 5
The Treasurer informed the Branch that items received
from Betty Gibson that once belonged to Fred Gibson ex member of the
Branch had been auctioned off on the last meeting night and a total of
£55 was collected which was then donated to the Branch by Betty
Minute 6
The Treasurer again reminded every member about
payment of their annual Fees and stated that if anyone has not paid
their Fees then as stated by the Secretary these members would no longer
receive any Branch minutes or correspondence from the Branch as still
such time that they had done so,
Minute 7
The Secretary informed the Branch that a total of
132 would be going to Gunton Hall for the annual weekend away and stated
that if any one would still like to go or know of anyone that would be
interested in attending then they should contact the Secretary as soon
as possible. He also stated that
all monies for the weekend had to be paid by the 3rd July
2008. He also reminded members about
the seating plan for the weekend. He reminded members that about the Bus
trip to Norwich which would cost £5 per person who wanted to travel to
Norwich on the Saturday. Also it was asked if there could be a boat trip
on the Sunday along the Norfolk Broads he stated that would look into
this to see what the costings would be.
Minute 8
Ray Hansen our Raffle organiser reminded the members
about the sponsoring of the Branch monthly Raffle and that he was
looking for sponsors for the May and June meetings
Minute 9
Terry Priest updated the members with regards to the
donation that we had made to the soldier injured in Afghanistan. He
informed the members that the soldier has had his car altered to
accommodate his disability and that the appeal had almost reached its
target for helping the soldier. He once again thanked the Branch for the
donation
Minute 10
The Secretary proposed an Adopt a Cop. The Officers
and NCO’s from 156 Pro Coy are deployed to Afghanistan during the early
weeks of April. He suggested showing these members of the unit that the
Branch is thinking of them during their tour. It is proposed that each
Branch members adopts a unit member or two and write to them during the
deployment which would also include sending the occasional parcel to the
unit member if possible. Sgt Lee Carpenter RMP spoke to the Branch and
gave some idea as to what the Unit members look for most whilst out in
The Secretary stated that he would obtain all the names of those
deploying from the RSM and then hand out the names and addresses to the
members He also proposed that all those who had a birthday during their
deployment would receive a birthday card from the Branch. Items and how
to send them are listed at the end of the minutes.
Proposed By: Allan Adam Seconded By: Roy Berry
Branch Vote Carried
Minute 11
The RSM introduced himself and welcomed the return of
the Branch to the WO’s & SGT’s Mess at last we are home again.
Most of his career has been with close protection He
joined in 1988 during his first posting at 156 Pro Coy RMP he went to
Belize, and then he was posted to 114 Pro Coy RMP where he met The
Branch Secretary. He was close protection in NATO Brussels, Ukraine
Spain Italy then he went to Northern Ireland, served with CONCO in
Belfast, then went to Beirut in Lebanon for 6 months then posted to
Catterick where he went to Macedonia Kosovo in the UK for a spell then
went to Freetown on 2000 assisting with the national evacuation as body
guard. He can speak Spanish He lived in Bogotá in Colombia for 2.5
years. Went to depot to instruct close protection then went to Germany
for two years 6 months in Afghanistan Baghdad for six months now posted
to Colchester for his last two years. In his whole army career he has
only lived in the UK for about 4 ½ years he has two children by ex
partners and has a girl friend in Bogotá hopefully getting married later
on this year. If he has any spare time he likes to play Rugby, also
fitness training and hopefully to make RMPA his hobby.
Minute 12
The Chairman and Secretary thought it would be a good
idea if a couple of members each month volunteered to supply a couple of
trays of sandwiches for each meeting. All that was needed was four
loaves of bread and any ingredients that were necessary to make the
sandwiches. The Chairman and Secretary started it all off by supplying
this months sandwiches. Members were informed that they could claim the
cost of the bread and ingredients if they wished from the Branch
treasurer on producing a till receipt for the goods. Volunteers to make
the sandwiches for next months meeting were Roy Ovenden and Ray Hansen,
well actually to be fair it was their good ladies Carole Ovenden and
Carol Hansen who volunteered them
Proposed By: Bill Pomery Seconded By: Allan
Adam Branch Vote: Carried
Meeting closed at 20.35
Other Business
1.
Vehicle Passes:
The RSM will be taking the completed Forms to the GSM on
Monday 21 April 2008
and it is hoped that as of Monday 28
April 2008 members will be able to attend
the Main reception Desk at
Merville
Barracks which is just along
from the Military Police Station. Members will be required to have with
them some form of ID preferably their RMPA ID’s but passports or driving
licences will do also they will need to produce their vehicles tax disc
to the reception desk. Once there a photograph will be taken and then
the Branch member will be issued with a vehicle pass that will cover the
period that their vehicle tax disc covers. The process normally takes
about 5 minutes to complete, however members should be prepared for
delays if the reception desk is busy
2.
Items for sending the Unit
members in Afghanistan:
Items that are needed Magazines, Lad Mags not Porn?? Magazines for the
Girls, Quiz books Sudoku, travel games. Lip balm, moisturiser, sweets
(not Chocolate as this melts in the heat) toiletries i.e. roll-on
deodorant, foot powder, tooth paste, tooth brush, cotton socks, candles,
sachets of water flavourings i.e. blackcurrant and lemon. Dioralite for
rehydration, vitamins. A shoe box
size parcel is the limit, you can send
jiffy bags if you prefer. These will not cost you anything to post as
long as they are addressed to the individual.
3.
RMP 6:
The Secretary has contacted MR John Miller father of Cpl Simon Miller
with regards to the RMP 6 Memorial Service that is being held in the
Unit Memorial Garden. After a discussion with Mr Miller it was decided
that the service would go ahead on the Sunday 22nd June 2008
at the 156 Pro Coy RMP Unit Memorial Garden with tea and biscuits
afterwards in the WO‘s & SGT’s Mess. It is hoped that this will enable
all the families and ex comrades of the RMP6 to get together and attend
the service leaving them free to carry out their on acts of remembrance
on the 24th June 2008 where ever they wish to be. The
Secretary has spoken to the RSM WO1 Tony Neal and together they will
organise the events for the Sunday 22nd June 2008
MINUTES OF THE OF COLCHESTER
AND EAST ANGLIA BRANCH RMPA
HELD ON THURSDAY 5th
JUNE 2008 AT THE WO’s & SGT’s MESS OF 156 PROVOST COMPANY GOOJERAT
BARRACKS COLCHESTER
President: Lt Col (Retd) Robbie Silk MBE
Chairman: Bill Pomery
Hon Secretary: Allan
Adam Treasurer: Tony Anthony
Members in Attendance: 46
Minute 1
The Chairman apologised for the
president not attending this months meeting this was due to personal
reasons. The Secretary then read out the minutes of the last meeting
held on 1st May 2008
and passed as a true and accurate record.
Proposed by
George Faulkner Seconded by Ray Hutson
Branch Vote Carried
Minute 2
The Secretary read out an email
from David Burke 106 Sidcup RMP Cadets. Inviting members to pop along
and give a bit of insight about RMP to the Cadets.
Minute 3
The Secretary informed Members
about OP BANNER Northern Ireland Commemoration
10 September 2008.
The Service will be held at St Pauls Cathedral in London. Those wishing
to attend should contact the Secretary for more details.
Minute 4
Sponsorship of RMP Major Phil
Parker at 115 Pro Coy, He was injured in a rocket attack in Iraq and was
treated in a field hospital. He is going to run in the
London Marathon 2009.
It was proposed that the Branch to sponsor him for £25.00 from the
Branch Funds,
Proposed by
Allan Adam Seconded by Ray Hansen Branch Vote
Carried
Minute 5
The
Secretary informed members of forthcoming Veterans Day in Colchester on
Friday 27th June 2008.
Last year only 4 people were invited but this year all members of the
branch have been invited. All are invited to St Peters Church on North
Hill for the service then March to the Town Hall for a Wine reception
held in the Moot Hall. Please bear in mind that the Moot Hall is on the
third floor. Those wishing to attend should contact the Secretary for
further details. Following on from this there will be a Band Concert in
the Castle Park on Sunday the 29th
June. The British
Legion are offering the Branch
some free tickets. For Branch members wishing to attend should contact
the Secretary for details
Minute 6
Gunton Hall, we’re nearly there
only a few months to go. All monies must be paid by the
10th July 2008.
The Treasurer will be at the next meeting on
10th July 2008
and will take your payments. There are still seats on the Bus for
Saturday’s shopping trip to Norwich. Hopefully also we will have an
assortment of Standards for Saturdays Nights Meal.
There is a Golfing outing
(PITCH AND PUTT) on the Saturday afternoon if you don’t want to do the
shopping trip to Norwich.
There will also be a Programme
of Events published nearer the time so if you wish to take part in any
of the activities you are welcome to. The more the merrier.
Minute 7
Adopt A Cop: Still have about
30 unit members to adopt; we don’t really want any of them missing out.
Please even encourage your family members can write to them.
Minute8
The Secretary is making
enquiries in obtaining a Branch Tie and asked the members for their
opinions it was decided that the Secretary would research the costs and
inform the Branch members at a future meeting
Minute 9
WO1 (RSM) Tony Neal informed
the members of the Remembrance Service for the RMP 6 on
Sunday 22nd June 2008.
It will be held in the Memorial Garden 156 Pro Coy RMP. There will be a
wet weather programme if needed. Hopefully we will have the Standard
from Herts and Essex Branch. Terry Priest also stated that Terry Knight
from London Branch will hopefully be attending with their Standard.
Branch members who are attending should be in the WO’s & SGT’s Mess 156
Pro Coy RMP by 1200 hrs, the service will commence at 1230 Hrs
Minute 10
The RSM also informed the
Branch of a weekly Sitrep that the unit had received from those deployed
in Afghanistan. At the time of the meeting it had been unseasonably
quiet, although the Brigade is involved in frequent fire fights. The
unit in Afghanistan have produced news letter for the families at home,
if any one would like to read it, please contact the Secretary and he
will try to obtain you a copy.
Minute 11
Next months Raffle will be
sponsored by John Graham. And the sandwiches will be provided by Doris
Falconer and friend. We are looking for more sponsors for the Raffles,
if you would like to be a sponsor please let me know.
Any Other Business
The
next Meeting will be on Thursday 10th
July 2008 this is due to a lot of members
being away during the first week when the meeting would normally have
been held.
Meeting closed at 20.40
MINUTES OF THE OF COLCHESTER
AND EAST ANGLIA BRANCH RMPA
HELD ON THURSDAY 10th
JULY 2008 AT THE WO’s & SGT’s MESS OF 156 PROVOST COMPANY GOOJERAT
BARRACKS COLCHESTER
President: Lt Col (Retd) Robbie Silk MBE
Chairman: Bill Pomery
Hon Secretary: Allan
Adam Treasurer: Tony Anthony
Members in Attendance: 50
Minute 1
The Secretary apologised for
the president not attending this months meeting this was due to Wedding
Anniversary. Also the Chairman was unable to attend due to being ill
having just returned from holiday. The Secretary then read out the
minutes of the last meeting held on
4th June 2008 and passed as a
true and accurate record.
Proposed by: Roy Ovendon
Seconded by: Roy Hudson Branch
Vote Carried
Minute 2
The Secretary informed Members
about the Veterans Day parade on the
Friday
27 June 2008
and that it was poorly supported as only three members turned up. Plus
he had been given 20 tickets for the Veterans Day in the park on the
Sunday 29 June 2008
and had to return to the British Legion half of these tickets as he had
no takers again.
Minute 3
ADOPT A COP, There are still
some members of 156 Pro Coy RMP who have not been adopted yet, we would
like for all them to have at least a letter, may members have taken more
than two.
Minute 4
The
Secretary informed members that the Remembrance Day for the RMP 6 on
Sunday 22 Jun 2008
was well represented. A buffet lunch was supplied by the unit and a
contribution of £50
towards the cost of the Buffet was requested from the Branch.
Proposed by: Allan Adam Seconded
by: Ivor Campion Branch Vote: Carried
Minute 5
Correspondence from RHQ that on
the 22nd September 2008 they are holding a Standard Bearer
and Parade Marshall Competition at the Training Centre. Anyone wishing
to participate should let the Secretary known at the earliest
opportunity.
Minute 6
The Secretary requested that
Committee Members had permission to spend up to
£50 for
essential items with out having to go through the Branch Members every
time, He did state however that any monies used would be minuted at the
next available meeting and that the receipts would be given to Treasurer
to ensure that his books were correct.
Proposed by:
George Falconer Seconded by: Terry Priest Branch Vote
Carried
Minute7
The Treasurer informed members that the Cheese and
Wine Evening collected £250
The Raffle
collected
£103 we made a
profit of £6.12.
the funds now stand at £1332
. There are some RMP
Ties and Bow Ties and some RMPA ties if
any one would like to purchase one see the Treasurer.
Minute 8
The Secretary stated that a
black cloth for the Standard had been purchased by our Standard Bearer
Ray Hansen in order that it can be used when attending a funeral. As it
had been bought with out the Members permission a vote was needed to
cover the purchase. The cost was
£26.50.
Proposed by: Ron Holroyd
Seconded by: Brian Drake Branch Vote Carried
Minute 9
Gunton Hall Letters have been
sent to all guests, plan of action is Arrive on Friday. You can arrive
any time on the Friday but you will not be able to get your rooms until
after 1430 Hrs
There are still places
available for the bus trip to Norwich on the Saturday cost for this is
£5 per person. Also we have had some interest in a Norfolk Broads Boat
trip on the Sunday. If enough Members and Guests are interested then
the Secretary will try and arrange the trip.
Minute 10
The secretary stated that he
has designed a couple of Branch RMPA Ties and proposed that the Branch
members at the meeting decide on which tie the Branch should select and
whether they wanted the design printed or woven. After some deliberation
it was decided that the Branch Badge should be woven and the cost per
Tie would be £14.00.
Any member wishing to purchase a tie should contact the Treasurer as
soon as possible as only 30
ties have been ordered at this stage? Any member
who wishes to see the design that was selected by the Branch can contact
the Secretary and he will send a copy of the design
Proposed By: Allan Adam
Seconded By: Tony Antony Branch Vote: Carried
Minute 11
The RSM thanked members for
their attendance to the Memorial and for the contribution to the lunch.
He also informed the Branch that he had brought a few copies of the news
letter from those deployed in Afghanistan for the families at home, if
any one would like to read it, please contact the Secretary and he will
try to obtain you a copy.
Minute 12
There was an impromptu talk
from the Maj John Hipkins OC 156 Pro Coy RMP who had taken time out from
his R& R and gave members a thoroughly enjoyable insight into the
Company’s different locations and Duties in Afghanistan. He also told
members that the letters and parcels sent by members to the Adopt a Cop
scheme are well appreciated. Also that if anyone had sent an ebluey and
not had a reply it’s possibly that the ebluey had not been delivered, He
did suggest that it was probably best using the paper blueys.
Meeting closed at 20.30
Any Other Business
1.
If anyone who attended the last meeting and has finished with
their copy of the newsletter from Afghanistan and are happy to pass on
to other members please contact the Secretary.
2.
As no raffle took place at this months meeting the Raffle prizes
will be carried over until the August meeting. We are looking for more
sponsors for the Raffles, if you would to be a sponsor please let The
Secretary or Ray Hansen know
3.
After the meeting several of our ladies approached the Secretary
and requested that a scarf should be designed for the Ladies of the
Branch. As they would like to show their affiliation to our Branch. He
contacted the Tie Company and they can provide 70 cm x 70 cm Navy Blue
Square Scarves with the Branch Badge in one of the corners.
4.
He then contacted the Treasurer and it was agreed to
purchase 20 Scarves
initially. The cost to the ladies will be
between £10 and £12 per scarf.
It will depend how many scarves are requested. If you require a scarf
please contact the Secretary before the next meeting to place your
order.
5.
The sandwiches for the August meeting will be provided by
Margaret Falconer and Eve Anthony. Please remember it is just meant to
be a light snack not a full course meal so please ensure that all those
who attend the meetings get a chance to have at least one sandwich
before you go back for seconds
6.
Next Meeting there will be a Quiz night.
The next Meeting will be on
Thursday 07 August 2008
MINUTES
OF THE OF COLCHESTER AND EAST ANGLIA BRANCH RMPA
HELD ON THURSDAY 7th
AUGUST 2008 AT THE WO’s & SGT’s MESS OF 156 PROVOST COMPANY GOOJERAT
BARRACKS COLCHESTER
President: Lt Col (Retd) Robbie Silk MBE
Chairman: Bill Pomery
Hon Secretary: Allan
Adam Treasurer: Tony Anthony
Members in Attendance: 36
Minute 1
The Chairman read out the
minutes of the July meeting and was passed as a true and accurate record
Proposed by: Ivor
Campion Seconded by: George falconer
Branch Vote Carried
Minute 2
The Treasurer informed the
Branch that the Branch Funds now stands at
£645. He
stated that £600
have been used to pay for the new Branch Ties and Scarves. Anyone
wishing to purchase a tie or ladies scarf should contact the Treasurer
as soon as possible. The costs for
the Ties are £14 and the Scarves are £12.
The tie and scarves should be available at the September meeting.
Minute 3
The
President apologised to the members for having missed two meetings. He
thanked the RSM for his support to the Branch. He would also
like to thank the Hon Secretary Allan Adam for his hard work and effort
in organising the Annual Weekend away for the Branch at Gunton Hall. The
President stated that he would provide the sandwiches for the September
meeting.
Minute 4
The Secretary informed the
Branch members that the final figure for those attending the Branch’s
first Annual weekend at Gunton Hall in September now stands at 130. This
includes 24 guests from the Colchester Guards Association, Members of
the RMP 200 club and RMPA Members from 5 other RMPA Branch’s. He stated
that there were still places available for the Bus Trip to Norwich on
the Saturday for either shopping or sightseeing as in the town centre is
Norwich Castle. Also there were still places available for the boat trip
on the Norfolk Broads on the Sunday.
Minute 4 Continued
The RSM WO1 Tony Neal has
stated that 2 LCpl’s have kindly volunteered to be Standard Bearers for
the Annual Dinner on the Saturday night.
The two LCpl’s will also be
invited to dine with us and spend the rest of the night with Branch
members. Gunton Hall had kindly allowed the two NCO’s to attend in
uniform and has also provided a room for them to stay free of charge.
Gunton Hall will be sending
welcome packs to everyone within the next few weeks.
Minute 5
The RSM WO1 Tony Neal briefed
the members as to the current events that are occurring in Afghanistan
for the members of 156 Pro Coy RMP and that another family newsletter
was available for Branch members to read.
Meeting closed at 20.20
Any Other Business
1.
If anyone who attended the last meeting and has finished with
their copy of the newsletter from Afghanistan and are happy to pass on
to other members please contact the Secretary.
2.
We are looking for more sponsors for the Raffles, if you would to
be a sponsor please let The Secretary or Ray Hansen know. The sponsors
for the September raffle will be Betty Gibson and her sister Barbara
Leeson
3.
The sandwiches for September meeting will be provided by The
President Robbie Silk Please remember it is just meant to be a light
snack not a full course meal so please ensure that all those who attend
the meetings get a chance to have at least one sandwich before you go
back for seconds
4.
During September the Branch Secretary was able fill the places on
the Boat trip along the Norfolk Broads. The boat trips now full.
The
next Meeting will be on
Thursday 4th September 2008
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