The day turned out to be perfect and everyone who went said they were surprised both by the size of the Arboretum and the many and varied stories that were revealed when closer inspection of the memorials was done.

The Armed Forces Memorial proved to be very moving with at least two members finding names of collegues who had died since the end of the Second World War engraved on the wall.

The really disapointing thing about this memorial is not the 16,000 names already on it, but the fact that they have allowed room for another 15,000. Will we never learn.

l The branch met at the Royal British Legion on April 17 with 20 members and guests present. Chairman Bob Newman asked all to remember during the dedication not only Bill Oates and Derek Barnard from the branch but also SAC Graham Livingstone and SAC Gary Thompson, both of the RAF Regiment who died recently during action in Afghanistan.

The secretary had a mixed bag of Wings confirmation letters, newsletters and addendums to newsletters to report on as well as the information about the forthcoming visit to Bridlington by the Night Fighters Association. The Wings Officer reported confirmation of two dates from the Promenades, June 28 and December 13, so anybody with ideas about a Christmas themed Wings Appeal are invited to let the committee know as soon as possible.

There was a report on the forthcoming conference resolutions, followed by a discussion on the recruitment of University Air Squadron as members.

Bill Page was present to give the ATC Squadron report, and was pleased to inform the branch that membership was still on the up and that the Squadron would be taking part in the annual Wing Training Day on May 10. Final arrangements were made for the region luncheon at the Expanse as well as the trip to the National Memorial Arboretum.

Members were reminded of the dates and events surrounding the Air Gunners Association weekend starting on May 30.

The committee will meet again in the Ship at Sewerby on May 12.

Chairman Bob Newman presented Derek Ibettson with a badge indicating his status as honorary MTO.