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Page 8 - Stories and memories of your time at RAF Bridgnorth.

Write and submit your memories here.

Read all the Guest Book entries, on a single page, here.

The son of Sgt Joe Saint (deceased) 4276943 from 1950-1954 says "In 1950 I was three years old. My father was D.I. Sgt Joe Saint. He passed away some years ago. I can just remember him bringing home babysitters. And all those buses at the gates to take all the recruits home.
He went on to Halton from Bridgnorth then to Wilmslow. From there to Singapore and 5001 Sqn (ants) Airfield construction. Happy days."

Bill Cunningham 4260605 from 1960 says "I never finished my basic training at Bridgnorth. I was selected for route lining duties for the Queen of Tonga. Billeted at West Drayton and trained at RAF Uxbridge."

David Carter 5020951 from 1956 says "I can remember a Cpl Amos who gave us a demonstration of American rifle drill, boy was he good.
I enjoyed doing GCT (ground combat training) remembering the tear gas drill, we went into this building, hands on the shoulders of the guy in front with our gas masks on and trooped round in a circle then a gas canister was set off and we had to remove our gas masks and sing the Happy Wanderer, we were soon out of that building I can tell you.
Inoculation time came round and we all queued up outside waiting our turn and it was a realy hot day. We could this bang, bang and it turned out to be chaps passing out and hitting the floor which didn't cheer us up that were waiting our turn much.
Even though it was hard work, I enjoyed doing drill, we were useless at first but as time past, we gradualy came together as one and took a certain pride in it. I was pretty fit when I went in as I was a keen cyclist, even so I was a lot fitter when I came out."

Peter Golding 4121503 from 1953 says "I was posted to Bridgnorth in January 1953 after a few days at RAF Cardington and it was a very cold and plenty of snow. My memories are having to go in the fields picking sprouts for the mess and after going on the rifle range digging the old bullets out of the ice cold sand. I then went on to RAF Weeton, Blackpool before going to Canel Zone."

Former Flt Lt Harry Pugh 154374 from 1955-1957 says "I particularly remember the introduction of 'initiative' training which really meant camping out on Wenlock Edge for a week end with only ground sheets for cover and tinned rations. This torture was blamed on someones scout experience. The recruits only did it once but the Staff had to do it as each new intake came around."

Ronnie Durward 4095143 from 1952 says it was a "during basic training, we spent an additional 8 weeks training with wooden clubs with lights on the ends to do a stint at the Royal Tournament July 1952 at Earls Court London. Quite a nice three weeks holiday."
 
Comment by Webmaster - See the page titled 'RAF Personnel in the local newspaper' That shows the newspaper dated 16 May 1952 mentions the event "RAF personnel practice their illuminated club swinging skills ready for the Royal Tournament at Earls Court. Very poor photograph."

Manning Larkins 4264238 from 1961 says it was a "time of great comradeship, growing from boy to manhood and wonderful memories. It was a hard but good time and set me up for life."

Donald Clive 3127067 from 1950 says he "did the 'square bashing' - passed out, only to be told our flight, along with others were to remain there for another six weeks, doing 'PT' all day, every day. We finished up at RAF Farnborough all 400 of us, together with 400 recruits from West Kirby (sleeping in tents at Aldershot!) for a massive PT display in front of The King & Queen, Churchill and many more famous people. Anyone else remember this?"
 
Comment by Webmaster - See the page titled 'RAF Personnel in the local newspaper' That shows the newspaper dated 30 June 1950 had an article and photograph of the event "400 recruits from Bridgnorth take part in a physical training demonstration at Farnborough. Trained by Flt Lt RICHARDS."

Frank Blake 5034146 from 1956 says that he "enjoyed basic training. Great set of lads. Regulars and National Service men who ranged from Doctors to Butcher's boys. The strong looked out for the weak. Learnt a lot about team spirit and made great friends who are still in contact after 56 years. Played Rugby for Station. No rank on Rugby field and team included both Rugby Union and Rugby League Players, including Professionals. Unheard of in the 1950's. Also Internationals in team. We had a great run in the R.A.F. Cup, beating amongst others West Kirkby, another "Square Bashing" Station, in front of the A.O.C. and both Station Commanders and their entourages. Great Kudos and released from other onerous duties to train every afternoon. Never been so fit. Passed out for Christmas leave at home and then reported to R.A.F.Melksham."

Peter Sutherland 4271591 from 1962 says that "Sgt Allen was our drill Sgt, a very boozy (big blue/red nose, but brilliant, we adored him. His squads won the cup every time. Cpl Daglish was our Cpl and a bigger xxxx could not be found. I instigated a rebelion which got him moved."

Edward Ashby 3512723 from 1952 says "I remember arriving by train and being met by NCO's at the camp. We were lined up and kit bags thrown out of truck. Our flight was used for RAF club swinging team and spent time at Earls Court. I remember first meeting with the Sergeant and was suitably impressed by the need to listen and obey, but at end of training a collection was made to show respect he had obtained. We also got chance to play football against NCO's and rules were not always followed."

Chris Chadwick 4261972 from 1960 remembers "lots of snow and our letters thrown into it on mail parade. John Falloon playing the piano and imitating Peter Sellers singing 'Well goodness gracious me.' John - your email address is not connecting."
 
The photographs Chris sent are listed as '1960 - Hut 20 in Dec' and '1960 - A Flt in Dec'

David Young 3151023 from 1956-1957 remembers "a cold bleak winter with a battle to get coke for the stoves. Highlights were trips to see Wolves v Honved and Red Star."

Brian Johnson S4263692 from 1961 says that "memories are pretty vague but can remember going up to London for a Guard of Honour which did not come off. Also the route marches or runs with pack from Bridgnorth. Went to Shawbury for trade training in air traffic control. Live in Australia."

Ralph Nightingale 5043341 from 1957 says that "after the usual week at RAF Cardington, we arrived at RAF Bridgnorth on 16th April 1957 after my 21st birthday. The regimentation and strictness was somewhat of a culture shock as it was for all the other recruits. After a couple of weeks we had gone through most of the pains of sore feet, injections, rifle drill and other disciplines and managed to impress our D.I.'s at the Passing Out Parade.
Although I can remember the faces of most of the lads in our hut, their names and the hut No. are a different story.
The most memorable tale about my hut is I remember one night, we was disturbed by a lad screaming in agony with an appendix and the next morning none of us knew what had happened to him because he wasn't there. I'd like to know if these details mean anything to anybody out there, and be able to get in contact with them.
I was posted to No.3 Radio School Compton Basset as Teleprinter operator 3rd Aug then went on to Gloucester 8th Nov to finish my National Service."
 
The photograph Ralph sent is listed as '1957 - Nightingale Flt'

Frank Fullerton 2436553 from 1949-1950 says he was a "member of the Station Band under Warrant Officer Fairgreaves. During this period the Band played at a number of events - such as cattle shows (!) A photograph was taken of the Band playing at such a show, but I was being posted to RAF Topcliffe before the photos were printed, so I left 5/-d (five shillings) as requested so hat they could forward a copy of the photograph to me - it never arrived! Have you by any chance any photos of the Station Band at that time? Would like to visit but I live in Bern, Switzerland but perhaps one day... "

Alan Thomas E4258794 from 1960 says he "missed Pass Out Parade. Did last week's drill with Queens Colour Sqd at Uxbridge for Guard of Honour duties re visit of King Hussein of Jordan."
 
The photograph Alan sent is listed as '1960 - Hut 11'

John Fraser 4130089 from 1953 says "I remember getting down to the rifle range and a herd of cows were roaming behind the targets. I was top shot that day."

Bernard Mole 5082055 from 1960-1961 says he remembers the "Winter, parading outside the hut. Freezing my '------'off and watching for the first sight of our drill Corporal appearing through the mist from married quarters. And then doing an interminable rifle drill. It was so cold that one of the lads cut his hand on the rifle breech and the blood running into his glove froze solid.
Happy days. Sitting in the hut being taught how to 'bull up' our boots and brasses by Leading man, 'Spike Milligan' older than the rest of us and an ex member of the Black Watch. Heat the spoon, rub down the toes of your boot with it, spit on your cloth, rub it in the blacking, lovingly circle it into the leather. Take your webbing belt into the ablutions, dip it in hot water, rapidly thread it over a water pipe, pull backwards and forwards until supple. Sitting around the stove in the hut, smoking and cursing the Corp. until the stove was glowing almost white. Polishing the hut floor until it was like glass, don't you dare to move about the hut without 'bumpers' under your feet.
Down to the Astra, yippee and a great western movie. Ah Bridgnorth. Where I met great lads, WHO LEARNED COMRADESHIP. I am in touch with only one. Tom Goult, originally from Cardiff."

William Nash 4148690 from 1954 says "we gave Cpl MacIntyre a cigarette lighter on our pass out. Any photo of 4 Flt? Please email - all expenses met."

George Phillips 5075348 from 1960 says "it was cold, food horrible, I reached my lowest ever adult weight; otherwise it was a brilliant time and far easier I am sure, than if I had been in the Army."
 
The photographs George sent are listed as '1960 - Hut 222, 23 Flt' and '1960 - 23 Flt 'C Sqd in April'

Richard Brown 4198420 from 1957 says his "DI Cpl. liked his dog racing. One of the recruits had a car parked off camp. DI found out and he "persuaded" the car owner to take him into Wolverhampton on a few evenings but he was allowed to bring someone as well. So I had a couple of nights out. When we got back to camp the DI went in first on his own and we had to take our chances. Nice man!!!"

Barry Beales 4098014 from 1952 says that he "travelled from Cardington to Bridgnorth by train carrying kit bag which had boots at the bottom which, when swung up to rest on your shoulder, invariably clouted the nearest sprog in the head!!When we arrived at the station we were met by our DIs one of which (Parnell) to my surprise I knew, as he came from my village, although this didn't get me preferential treatment, quite the reverse!
I see in the Memories page mention of the "gas hut". My lasting memory is when you were herded in one door and then you were told to remove the gas mask everyone crowded near that door only for the sadistic DIs to open the door at the far end.
The other thing that sticks in my mind is the "bull night". Like when the lino was replaced for brown and we had to scrape the top layer with a razor blade so it could be polished with Cardinal. The other bit of bull was the coke containers in the hut were, when we arrived, painted black with shiny rivets we had to remove the paint and burnish the main part and paint the rivets black.
Another memory was that when we went to the mess hall you had to remove your cap and if you forgot, you were soon reminded of the fact by the rest of the mess hall. One meal time, the SWO man came in on Orderly Officer Duty, of course wearing his hat. One poor little innocent sproog shouted out "Take your hat off" all went quiet and the SWO man went over to him and pointing to the Warrant Officer badge on his arm said "What do you think this is?" the sprog said "I don't care if you are in the band, you can't wear your hat in here" As far as I know he could still be on jankers.
Another thing is the poor blokes that could not grasp marching. They used to put their left arm and left leg forward at the same time, likewise the right, so that if you were in front or behind them your arms clashed. Many mugs were broken on the way to the mess in this way."

Frank Connor 5069685 from 1959 says "like other memories the initial shock is what registers with you, remember when issued with my '303', got marched off so quickly hadn't engaged bolt properly and marched backed to hut holding it in with thumb and then getting a rollicking for it in case I'd dropped it, very soon got the hang of it though.
I can't remember the hut No. now but had one guy in there who just could not get the hang of setting up the bed for inspection his blanket/sheet display would all be cockeyed and almost always finished up on the floor, as time went on and we had got hold of strips of hardboard, this helped to keep all nice and straight and square so we would make his his bed up for him to give him a break.
We had one fella with us who was ex Navy so knew the Service set up so when it came to choose a trade, I'd finished my Apprenticeship for Carpenter, I'd hoped to get into something along those lines but he told us the Service would want to train us up their way and I was not likely to get anything like that unless I signed on which I wasn't prepared to do so decided to work that to my advantage and looked for something that I could make use of when I eventually got out and settled for teleprinter operator and ability to type has come in very useful over the years and also because we were working shifts we didn't get guard or fire duty.
Yes whilst it seemed hard at the time we did look back on it and think I really did grow up during that time. My wife has always said that I went in a boy and came out a man. I too remember the incident of the Spitfire being dragged onto the parade ground overnight and the trouble over it.
I believe the Eddie Edwards who lived in Hanworth, Middlesex and I know he went to Nicosia, I lived in London at time, he had a motor bike and had brought it up to camp but had to leave it a farmers field just up the road, he used to give us a lift back to London when we could get away and I remember coming back to camp late one night and the electrics were playing up and not far from camp suddenly the lights went out and we were doing about 60mph at the time. Eddie managed to stop and get lights back on and that when we found we looking straight down into a ditch. !!! Memories."

Paul Horton L4274341 from 1962 says "we were in hut 245 and spent most nights polishing the floor and learning how to make a bedpack for the following morning's kit inspection. I think we earned the princely sum of 3 pounds 10 shillings a week, most of which we had to send home to mother. We just had enough over for razor blades and toothpaste."

John Williams 5033103 from 1956 says that "the prospect of having to do National Service was never far away from the thoughts of youngsters of my generation. Although time seemed to move a good deal slower in those days, from about the age of 14, most of us knew of someone who had received the dreaded 'invitation' to serve two years for Queen and Country, and it was our turn next. For me, this was not a prospect that I looked forward to, but when the time arrived I was determined to do what was required of me with the minimum amount of fuss, and so on 26 September 1956 I duly reported to RAF Hornchurch, in an attempt at officer selection, then to RAF Cardington by coach and on to RAF Bridgnorth by train.
My early days at Bridgnorth were very much an eye-opener, never having experienced anything quite like it in my life up to that point. My earliest opinion was that the whole regime was doomed to failure, but then it gradually dawned upon me that this system had worked well in the past and was here to stay, so I began to take it on board. During those weeks of training, I think that my fellow sufferers and I detected a change in our attitudes; through the discipline came pride and through physical exercise came a level of fitness that most of us had not previously enjoyed. I suppose that none of us ever thought that one day, perhaps many years in the future, we might like to look at a diary or daily records of what we did, ate or talked about, for this period in our lives was a mere preamble to a life of countless years stretching out before us, and therefore of little importance in the wider scheme of things.
One final point I feel that I would like to make relates to the longer-term effect of having been subjected to military discipline, because for many years after my release I could separate those who had been in the Forces from the ones who had not. In some instances, when I was able to carry out a few checks, I cannot recall ever having been wrong. I am sure that so many youngsters these days would benefit from the experience, but others would no doubt complain that their human rights had been violated."
 
The photographs John sent are listed as '1956 - Hut 65 in Nov' and '1956 - 14 Flt 'B' Sqd'

Philip Evans 4132237 from 1953 says he "went to RAF Bridgnorth from Cardington. Can remember having to stand a long time at the railway staion while we were counted several times as the Officer from the camp did not get the same total as the Officer who had accompanied us from Cardington.
Passed out on the Battle of Britain weekend. Marched through Bridgnorth with fixed bayonets on Sunday morning to the church for a service.
One evening went on a long march with several officers and NCOs. Can't remember any names of other recruits or NCOs. Had 48 hour pass and came home on a coach to Warrington."

Barrie Crookes 5075433 from 1960 says he "did not have a Pass-out at Bridgnorth. For the last couple of weeks we went to Uxbridge to learn route lining for the visit of General De Gaulle."

Graham Baker 4172142 from 1955 says "I cannot remember being in the photos that were taken and I cannot find myself in any of the photos on display. I do remember Cpl Pottinger and how well turned out he was as we got off the bus. I would be most relieved if someone could help establish that I was there. Though I was in the band, I did not partake in the passing out parade. Another mystery. A friend of mine from our home town was a week behind me, his name was John Lambert. As I am now living in Canada, contact has proven to be a bit difficult. Now that I have found this web site, I hope this will help my search.
I do remember being in the Station Band. At the last moment the Band Master placed me on the Base Drum. Something I had never played in my life before and of course I made a complete hash of it. The Band Master came back, stood next to me and said "If you can't hit that drum by yourself, we will do it together. When I hit you, you hit the damn drum." From that day on, I have been able to beat 120 paces per min. with no problem. Stayed 9 years in the RAF."

Jim Jervis 5079558 from 1960 says he "actually (feigning a fever) won a bet...... by getting the D.I. to bring me a cup of tea in bed !!"

Francis Joseph Green 2435847 from 1949 says that he "received the 'Best Recruit' award for the 6 week training period whilst at RAF Bridgnorth. This award was entered on my Service record and after the passing out parade, I took tea and cakes with the Station Commander and his lady in August 1949."

David Sellars 5032199 from 1956 says that "part of our training was to go "camping". We had to find branches and use them with our own and extra ground sheets to make a bivouac. We had torrential rain overnight and were washed out, but because we kept cheerful (and because we cleaned the Pilot Officer's car) we were granted a 36 hour pass on the Saturday morning on returning to camp. This was good for those of us who lived in the Midlands but no use to the Scots. Our boots were filthy and had to be spotless for first parade on Monday morning but one of the Scots, who could not get home, offered to clean all our boots ready for our return on Sunday evening (by lorry leaving Wolverhampton Low Level at 10pm prompt) He was well provided with cigatettes for the rest of our training!"

Tom Keates 4059363 from 1951 says he was "only 11 miles from home. My first exposure to man to man living. Thoroughly enjoyed every minute, (except the 4 days in Hospital with the flu?) Remember the full pack marches - the cold mornings - spit and polish boots - fish & chips in Bridgnorth - the rigid bed making protocol and the sudden, late in the day, realization that our DI was a "real" man and one of us."

Leslie Hinton 4197561 from 1957 says that "my time at Bridgnorth was not that bad but I know some hated it. Mind I did sign on after being refused for National Service because of my eye sight. I think that was rather daft."
 
The photographs Les sent are listed as '1957 - Hut 130' and '1957 - Hinton's Sqd'

Keith Woodall 2353553 from 1947 says that "1947 was a terrible winter but the summer was glorious. On being called up to Padgate, by the way, I lived in Dudley, after being kitted out, etc. we were woken up at five in the morning and given breakfast then taken down to the railway station, onto a train with the windows blacked out. After a couple of hours one of the lads managed to spy a hole in the blackout and said we were nearly in Bridgnorth. The lads from Dudley including me could not believe it. So we were to do our squarebashing close to home and the weather turned out to be the hotest summer for many years."

Colin Underwood 4087933 from 1951-1952 says "I arrived at Cardington on the 4th of Dec 1951, after being kitted out moved to Bridgnorth square bashing.
We were in our last week of square bashing when the King died Feb 6th. Moved back to Cardington for special drill reversing arms etc. Lined the route in London for Kings funeral, then went back to Bridgnorth for passing out parade."
 
The photograph Colin sent is listed as '1952 - Underwood's Hut'

Gordon Hopkins 4048769 from 1950 says that the "weather so bad - Unable to do training on the assault course!"

Liam McGuire 2490749 from 1950-1952 says "I was in the concert party with Sgt Lynch. We did a couple of shows. We also had a panto which did not go ahead because of the King dying. We did a skit about much bullshit at Bridgnorth. Happy times. All good guys."

Ron Bannerman G4271501 from 1962 says "I have looked at all the photographs, but I don't see any of myself. I loved my time at Bridgnorth and my basic training, unfortunatley I lost all my photographs, can anyone help. Thanks."

Gerry Llewellyn K4253199 from 1959 and 1962/1963 says "there was a photo in the local paper of myself and I think it was David Hill handing over one of our snooker tables to one of the Bridgnorth organisations. Unfortunately I no longer have a copy of the photo or the newspaper."
 
Comment by the Webmaster. Unfortunately, for that year, no copies of the newspaper exist anywhere.

John Haynes R4272683 from 1962 says that "Bridgnorth was quite the shock for a farmers boy from Derbyshire but I soon got into the swing of things, especially Saturday nights down town. I learned real quick that I could not play cards, after loosing pay two weeks in row on pay day!!
Highlight of basic training was going to London on Guard of Honour duty for the Prime Minister of Ghana's State visit."
 
The photographs John sent are listed as '1962 - Hut 246' and '1962 - Haynes Flt'

Malcolm Roberts 4239373 from 1958 says he was "in same hut 134, 30 Flt, C Sqd, with David Raine, professional footballer with Port Vale. Last seen when Walsall played Port Vale at Fellows Park. Spoke to him then."
 
The photograph Malcolm sent is listed as '1958 - Hut 134, 30 Flt'

Ian Humphries 4269212 from 1962 says he can "recognize many faces on '1962 - Hut 259' , ' 1962 - Jan Flt' , '1962 - Hut 299 in Feb' and '1962 - Hut 152, 15 Flt'."

Mike Cousins 4262114 from 1960 says that "in 1960, swearing in and kitting out took place at Cardington, before being put on a private train to Bridgnorth. Does anyone know which station we stopped at part-way with tea urns on the platform?
Sang in C of E church choir carol singing tour of station, including Sgts Mess and Officers' Mess where we were given soup and were chatted with by the Station Commander ("I can do a lot more to a Corporal than he can do to you").
Having gained Cert A in CCF, upflighted from 14 Flt, B Sqd and the foul-mouthed Cpls Gorman & Thomas, to the vastly more civilised 24 Flt, C Sqd (won the Drill Cup). At Cardington, had let myself be talked into joining for direct entry training as Supplier II at Kirton-in-Lindsey. A mistake!
In 1961, swearing in was at local RAF Careers Info Centre, kitting out was at Bridgnorth and the entries had dropped from one per week to one per month. Did not have to do square bashing again but worked in Station Post Office until posted to Shawbury for air traffic control trade training."

Albert Roberts 3153973 from 1958 remembers "Fisherman Jock 'jumping over the wire' and heading back home to MacDuff in Scotland."
 
The photograph Albert sent is listed as '1958 - Roberts Flt'

Cyril Muscroft 5020115 from 1956 says "I remember Cpl Reams. We were his last intake and we won the Drill Cup. Anyone else remember this?"

Gordon Hudson 3514955 from 1952 remembers "stealing coal from the coal dump as it was well below freezing in the billet!"

Barrie Davey 4258934 from 1960 asks "does anybody remember lining the root in London for the King and Queen of Siam around 1959 ish."

Alan White 5010784 from 1956 says "have just found this site, it has brought back many good memories. Unfortunately I can't remember the exact dates I was at Bridgnorth or names of others in hut 87 or 15 Flt.
Does any one remember that on the day of the drill test, our Sgt decided to take over, but gave the wrong commands so understandably we did not win the cup.
I went on to train as a radar op annd served most of my time at RAF St Margarets Bay.
Have attached photographs of the Flt and one of hut 87."
 
The photographs Alan sent are listed as '1956 - Hut 87' and '1956 - 15 Flt'

Roy William Taylor 3527565 from 1959 says "I was very lucky that, having completed recruit training, I worked in the Pool Flight Office for a while (Flt Sgt Reynolds and Flt Sgt Carslake), one of my jobs was to fix up all the week-end 295's for the lads. I loved the place and remember it well."

John Bisset L4264149 from 1961 says he "went home with the best tan I have ever had. Went in fit, left fitter. Good start to my 9 years in the Service."

Brian Higgins U4261997 from 1960 says that "when I left Bridgnorth, I was fitter than I have ever been. Most of our entry were National Service from Scotland who had been deffered. Most names escape me now but I wonder what happened to my good friend John Hillier, his Service number was one number before mine."

Owen Jones X4269281 from 1962 says he "arrived on the 8 Jan, the camp having closed due to the whole place freezing. It remained that way for the rest of my training."

Roy Twynham 5058059 from 1958 says he was "only there for 8 weeks training. Played football and missed some training, much to the dislike of Cpl Wright and Cpl Lightfoot. Would appreciate any feedback."

Derek Maskell 2464858 from 1950 says "I recall that we were given the Freedom of the town of Bridgnorth and we marched through the town with rifles at the slope and bayonets fixed. Quite an honour!"

Reg Bright 5016267 from 1956 says "Don't remember a lot, it was 50 plus years ago, seem to remember our DI was very slim, not very tall and think he came from Isle of Man. Anyone add to this. I completed my 2 years at Fighter Command HQ Bently Priory in my civilian trade Draughtsman."

Ken Best 4265383 from 1961 remembers "arriving at the railway station and being shouted at by a Corporal for not arriving on an earlier train, however I got over it and enjoyed my Service time at Changi, Gan and Northolt.
Happy times, does anyone remember the 'sallyanne' dark red tea bus at basic training. I think I was in the yellow flight."

Malcolm Coles 4260066 from 1960 says "It had to be done. But it made men out of all of us. I was nearly back flighted because I was still over weight! It did not happen. I had a Bren Marksman but so did many others. The 303 was more difficult. No Marksman with this rifle. Saw one airman have an accident with a Bren - wow - a bit of blood but not serious. What a passing out parade!"

Ian Smith 4246569 from 1958 has "Happy memories! I was in Hut 309, 40 Flt, D Sqd. Drill instructors Cpl Wiseman and Sgt Ventras. Went on to Yatesbury for Air Radar training."

Alan Muter 4256587 from 1960 says "The memory uppermost in my mind is getting off the bus at Bridgnorth on a bitterly cold January day with six inches of snow covering the ground. We were freezing cold, hungry and tired. We were told to make our way to a certain building. We had gone but a few steps when a voice from nowhere bellowed "Get off the f------ grass" Yes, these were the first friendly welcoming words from our corporal D.I. We wouldn't have minded so much but because of all the snow we couldn't see any f------- grass. From that day on our feet never touched the bottom never mind the grass.
I also remember the plastic eggs and porridge thick enough to lay bricks with, the endless polishing of boots & brasses.
I remember also the pot-bellied stoves, we had them burning so hot that the structure was glowing red & when we woke up one morning we were unable to speak the fumes had done something to our voice boxes. Anyway, the M.O. said it would wear off and it did after a few hours.
Half way through our training, we were allowed the weekend off {Saturday afternoon till Monday morning} me and my marra Barry, a fellow Geordie, decided to live it up a little in Wolverhampton on the Saturday night. Barry didn't know it but I had just received a "Dear John" letter from my girlfriend back home and feeling a bit down I was looking forward to the night out. To cut a long story short we had a great night out and we were enjoying ourselves so much that we missed the last bus back to the camp. We figured that walking at an average speed of 5 miles an hour, it would take us about 2 hours to walk the 10 miles back so off we went. What we hadn't considered was the fact that we were slightly p----d and that we were walking sideways half of the time. Anyhow we were passing someone's garden and at the bottom of the garden was a shed, so we decided to kip in the shed and continue our journey the following morning. We each settled in a corner & pulling our Greatcoats over our heads, we tried to get some sleep. It was a freezing cold night in the middle of winter and had it not been for our good old Greatcoats, we may well have frozen to death. Anyhow, early in the morning off we went on our journey and lucky for us a delivery van pulled up and took us back to camp. I think he was making a delivery to the N.A.F.F.I. When we got back to camp we headed straight for our pits {Beds} we didn't bother with breakfast.
By the way, the girlfriend who sent me the "Dear John" letter later became my wife and in September of this year, we celebrated our Golden Anniversary."
 
The photograph Alan sent is listed as '1960 - 9 Flt 'A' Sqd in Feb'

Riddell Weir 5071818 from 1959 says it was "tough going at the beginning, but nonetheless enjoyed it and met many decent lads, who like myself, were doing their call of duty."

Roy Steadman 4272845 from 1962 was in both "Hut 131, B Sqd, 19 Flt and Hut 211, 16 Flt. Back flighted because of adverse reaction to all the needles I had received. Ambulance job. Spent 10 days in Hostpital followed by 2 weeks sick leave.
I have a couple of photos showing Graham, Carl, Frank Cooksley, John Harris, Chris, Peter Webster, Jeff Searle, David, Morgan? J woodman?
Memories of note. Fire alarm went off early hours of the morning, we were staggering about all over the place still asleep on our feet. I mean WE WERE tired after a long day doing drill, any way, when the fire bell stopped we were like dodgem cars trying to work out where we were to get back into bed. Anyway the next day I woke up in bed with someone who wanted to share, I wonder who he was????
Our DI (The Greatest) had a great idea. He started up a very select club called, "The Bumblies" just for those with two left feet and those who's arms were on the wrong way round. This is caused by having arms which had been removed from the owner and later modified by our DI before being reattached. Fondly remembered as Bumblies No1 and Bumblies No2 & No3 etc. Membership was forced on us, so we had to make sure we were good little erks! Hands up those who were members?
Did we have time to go to the pictures? I don't remember ever going. I was always too busy."

Norman Atkinson 2400915 from 1948 says "I recall many of the faces in the photograph [ 1948 - 18 Flt ] but wonder whether Mr Bacon's father was with me when we had 'Shic' injections and boys collapsed. I was in the first lot because I was Atkinson and recall putting Ernie Aitkenhead to bed.
Again, I recall potato picking and my squad getting one tin of pilchards between us all. We literally starved and I stole slices of bread concealed under a dinner plate.
I recall the Armistice Parade march into Bridgnorth Town in the rain.
I recall Cpl Spud Murphy, Cpl Kemble- a pair of right bastards and a kinder Cpl McCourt.
Frankly, I was glad to finish my square bashing and to be posted to a proper RAF unit.
I'm adding my e-mail address so that children of those on 18 Flight will know what their dads had to endure. tramuntana***btinternet.com"

Stan Adamson 4250062 from 1959 says "my drill Corporal was Cpl Pottinger and I think the Sgts name was Sgt Haddow. He was a keen Wolves supporter."

David Jones 4250864 from 1959 can "remember my journey from Chester to Bedford station and my kitting out at Cardington, not much shouting at that stage. Then the journey to Bridgnorth and the arrival at the railway station when we were lined up and when our name was called out, we had to shout out our last 3. I suffered a mental block and couldn't remember them, but the guy next to me Jock Mackenzie was one digit different to mine so when they called my name, he whispered 864 and I got away with it.
Remember Cpl Cheetham on our first 'Chat' in our billet, he was showing us how to iron our uniform and shirts, when the rear door to the billet burst open and this figure appeared in fatigue overalls looking very flustered. Cheetham asked him why he was late and he replied in a broad northern Irish accent "I have been cleaning a couple of Cr*ps under the bath Cpl!" to which the whole billet of men erupted in howls of laughter.
I remember the 2 days we had on the rifle range at Rugely... 1000 yard range, 2 of us running with a bren gun and ammo and stopping at 100 yard intervals and firing a magazine off then swapping over to carry on to the next firing point. The following day we did it with a 303 rifle every 100 yards firing either standing, laying down or kneeling, at the final 100 yard point it was standing and that rifle felt like 4 feet of rubber hose we were so knackered.
Enjoyed it though sleeping in a barn with straw palliases. I hope someone remembers these memories and gets in touch!"

Bill Bate 2458027 from 1950 remembers "RAF Bridgnorth was my introduction to the real world, the first time away from home and ending up in a billet with 24 strangers. They all ended up good friends after the eight weeks training. I think we had the best D.I. in the camp. I recommend National Service to all eighteen year olds, it would make men of you. A good memory of Bridgnorth was playing football for the camp on the Wolves ground."
 
The photograph Bill sent is listed as '1950 - March'

David Elson T4274608 from 1962 remembers "only that my square bashing was ardous, however I look back with great fondness and regard being part of it as a privilige and a great honour."

Robert Hooper S5061353 from 1958 says he "Can't offer any remarkable memories, but remember many experiences on a daily basis. Some surnames remembered from my basic training days Barry Levy, Alan Jane, Peter Viesnik, Bytheway, Neal Jones. Also Cpl Jimmy Ralston, Sgt Ventress ...."

Hylton Sleightholme 4260118 from 1960 says "I was on the Battle of Britain parade in Manchester when Brian Allison broke his rifle."

John Brown 2781207 from 1955-1956 says "what a different atmosphere greeted us at Bridgnorth Railway Station: the DIs kicked around our new white kit-bags in the slushy snow until they were sufficiently dirty and then screamed at us to get on the coaches for transport to the RAF station.
There we were given tea and then allocated our billets. After a short while of sitting on our beds, there was a noise, followed by the end door bursting open. A short glowering Corporal swept his eyes around the billet; he left us in no doubt that he was not impressed. He then proceeded to stride up and down, striking the end of each bed with his pace stick, to emphasise what he was saying. The first lesson was that corporals were 'God' when one entered a room, the first person to see him was to shout 'NCO present' which was the signal for everyone to leap to leap to their feet and stand to attention. After a depressing diatribe, lasting three quarters of an hour, he departed. The effect on the billet served to generate a camaraderie that we were all in the same boat and together we would all survive."
 
The photograph John sent is listed as '1956 - 'A' Sqd'

Brian Bird 2783664 from 1956 remembers "being cold and hungry. Hence my pal and I contrived a scheme to have two hot dinners a day and it worked well for a couple of weeks until a more observant cook-house Corporal twigged what was happening. We weren't caught red handed and we never saw that Corporal again, but he probably told the other shifts so we decided better hungry than jankers (or worse)"

Glyn Morris 4128516 from 1953 says "I had a great time with my mates and many fond memories."

David Robert Jones 4250864 from 1959 can "remember my journey from Chester to Bedford station and my kitting out at Cardington, not much shouting at that stage. Then the journey to Bridgnorth and the arrival at the railway station when we were lined up and when our name was called out, we had to shout out our last 3. I suffered a mental block and couldn't remember them, but the guy next to me Jock Mackenzie was one digit different to mine so when they called my name, he whispered 864 and I got away with it.
I remember Cpl Cheetham. You could cut your finger on his trouser creases. On our first 'Chat' in our billet, he was showing us how to iron our uniform and shirts, when the rear door to the billet burst open and this figure appeared in fatigue overalls looking very flustered. Cheetham asked him why he was late and he replied in a broad northern Irish accent "I have been cleaning a couple of Cr*ps under the bath Cpl!" to which the whole billet of men erupted in howls of laughter.
I remember the 2 days we had on the rifle range at Rugely... 1000 yard range, 2 of us running with a bren gun and ammo and stopping at 100 yard intervals and firing a magazine off then swapping over to carry on to the next firing point. The following day we did it with a 303 rifle every 100 yards firing either standing, laying down or kneeling, at the final 100 yard point it was standing and that rifle felt like 4 feet of rubber hose we were so knackered.
Enjoyed it though sleeping in a barn with straw palliases. I hope someone remembers these memories and gets in touch!"

The son of Jack Coan 1219185 from 1941 asks "My father was inducted at Bridgnorth in 1941. Do you have any records please? Many thanks Nigel Coan."
 
Comment by the Webmaster - All information I have is already on this web site.

Peter Lincoln H4256009 from 1959 says that "all I remember it was cold I got shouted at a lot and had to clean the bogs with my bare hands for wearing gloves without permission and I was always dropout my irons into that that tank of boiling water outside the mess.
Oh happy days, it can't of been that bad, I stayed in for 37 years and would do it all again but not in this modern Air Force. I have now retired to sunnier climes Down under in Western Australia."

Ian Band A4273462 from 1962 says that "the town of Bridgnorth was my first introduction to Scrumpy, boozing on the cheap, I never got past 3 half pints.
I also recall taking part in a Freedom of the Town March Through with flags flying, Bands playing, and bayonets fixed."

Peter Webb G4267197 from 1961 says that "all of us Irish were held in transit flight from 27th Sep 1961 for two weeks before we started square bashing.
Remember Tim Wood ex army who was our hut Senior man and showed us the ropes.
Coke raids when our supply ran out. Mucking in together on 'bull' nights."
 
The photographs Peter sent are listed as '1961 - Hut 174 in Oct' and '1961 - 18 Flt in Oct'

John Rogers 4099790 from 1953 says "our Flight spent the last week of training acting as ushers and helping with crowd control at Runnymead when the Queen opened the RAF memorial there in October 1953. We lined the route of the royal procession and therefore had a grandstand view. We were billeted at Uxbridge and met many pretty WAAFS there. As we had been locked up at Bridgnorth for 7 weeks, it made a pleasant change!! I wonder if anyone remembers."
 
The photograph John sent is listed as '1953 - Hut 215, 15 Flt'

Tony George 5076531 from 1960 remembers "Wolverhampton Wanderers at the local pub. Cpl Cadwallader and lifts with him back to Cardiff. Crashing out after being attacked by medics giving us a series of multiple jabs. Fatigues. Noting what a waste of time it all was!"

Eric (Terry) White 4129487 from 1953 says "before arriving, by steam train of course, we were given a 24hr pass after only 7 days in the Service, due to Queens Coronation, much to the disgust of veterans, our civvies had been sent home. None of us had a clue how to behave or who to salute whilst in uniform. Needless to say I was pulled up a few times, by MPs and SPs who seemed to be everywhere in London, for various breaches of RAF regs which I was blissfully unaware.
Arriving at Bridgnorth was a rude awakening. I remember that No 11 Wing stores was the best fatigue duty, the cookhouse tin room the worst. You could wangle the best once you realised how the system worked.
Ended up posted to RAF Credenhill (Hereford) for trade training."

Leslie Birkett F4262795 from 1961 says "I did my square bashing at RAF Bridgnorth starting 18/1/1961. My Flight Commander was Flt Lt Penny. DI's Cpl McClusky and Sgt Payne. They could never understand why every time they shouted at me I laughed. It was because they stood so close that my glasses always used to get showered.
I remember I had to wait three days to get home to see my newly born first daughter. Had some good times and made a lot of mates."

Michael Short 4084604 from 1951 says that he "was at Cardington with Doug Worton and together at Bridgnorth. We can't remember going into Wolverhampton to meet girls on a Sunday afternoon. We read some did. We met up this year. First time since 1956. We recalled our Bridgnorth days and could not believe it was only eight weeks. Doug isn't on the Flight photo and we spent time speculating where he was. There seems to be a shortage of guys from 1951. They must be out there somewhere."

Clifford Warren P4272809 from 1962 says "us lads in A Sqd, 3 Flt, Hut 255 seemed to get along very well together. Saturday nights we went to the White Horse pub opposite the park in Stourbridge. They had a dance out the back, a few beers and a dance if you were lucky. Not enough girls to go around. A few more beers, pile into taxis back to Bridgnorth.
Mike Aikens (the Manchester kid) got the next service number to mine. Came to my gaf one weekend on Whittle's Coaches. He took me to Manchester, went to a disco and I'm sure the D.J. was Jimmy Saville.
I had a good time and Bridgnorth did me some good. Cpl Wiseman called me a smart arse when he asked me how I knew how a webbing belt went together. I answered that I had been in the Air Training Corp. Happy days, all the best to the chaps. Clifford Warren aka Bunny."

Colin Kay J4265779 from 1961 says "what a good time was to be had here. Looking back I thoughly enjoyed it, although at the time it seemed like hell. Can't remember any of the Corporals names, although they would probably remember me. All the spit and polish never did any of us any harm."

The daughter of Graham Metcalfe from 1958 - 1962? says "my name is Jean Jones, the daughter of Graham, he is now 84 years old and in poor health. He has short term memory problems but talks of Bridgnorth often. I would like to know if anyone has any photographs of the camp or knows where I could get hold of any. I myself return to Bridgnorth every year and have many memories of our time at the camp. Thanks to anyone who can help."

Peter Went 2718837 from 1954 - 1956, says that "after Medical training at RAF Warton I was posted to RAF Bridgnorth and worked as a medical orderly in the Sick Quarters. Poorly trained we did our best! We seemed to deal mainly with the after affects of inoculations etc.
I have one memory that has never left me. Our senior Doctor, a Squadron Leader, always placed his hands on the warm radiator before examining a patient. I was and still am astounded by such sensitivity in an Air Force context. I would love to know where he lives, if he is still alive, and what his name is/was.
My home was in Wolverhampton so I spent all the time I could with my parents. During the summer two of us would cycle the 10 or so miles to camp. During the winter it was a bus ride. This involved a nearly two mile walk for the bus at Compton and then almost a mile to Camp after the bus had dropped us off.
On a visit of discovery, I once tried to find the area where the Sick Quarters were situated, but have failed miserably! Can anyone help? Are there any photographs of the Sick Quarters available?"

Ray Rastin 4112193 from 1952, remembers "meeting for the very first time my step cousin. Cpl Haliburton set up the meeting. He lived next door to my step cousin on the married quarters and she worked as a cleaner in the camp cinema. She was the wife of Sgt Hicks i/c 24 Flt. I was 15 Flt. Just a casual mention of my surname set everything going and I have never forgotten Cpl Haliburtons kindness."

Steve Nicholls 4165614 from 1955, says that he "loved every minute. No one should have missed it. Made great friends at Bridgnorth and Kirkham where I was trained to be turret armourer. Did the rest of my time at Ballykelly."

Stan Bullock 4256251 from 1960, says that he "was in first all Regular Entry. Back flighted because of the flu epidemic and finally found the escape tunnel to RAF Weeton and basic training. Sgt Fowler was my nemesis but he was true to his last. Met his son later in life. Apples do not fall far from trees."

Stanley West D3152485 from 1957, says "I remember well with trepidation the train journey to RAF Cardington on Sept 10th 1957, for kitting out. We had a very kindly Sgt to assist us and look after us sprogs. It certainly gave us a false idea of what was to come. We were gently ushered onto a train bound for RAF Bridgnorth.
It was then the world turned upside down. We entered the gates on RAF 3 tonners direct to the Parade square outside D Squadron blocks, The reception was awesome, there were these strange servicemen, extremely smart uniforms pressed and boots shining as though varnished. Our feet never seemed to touch the floor from that point on, the verbal description of personnel came as a shock to our delicate ears. When we were finally herded into our billet we were most impressed it was immaculate, we were also told in no uncertain terms by our Drill Corporal (Cpl Tosh) together with a Sgt Ferguson that the billet was expected to remain as such for the remainder of our stay.
Within seconds it seemed we were ordered outside when we were lined up for our first initiation of Drill by Cpl Tosh. He seemed to be the devil incarnate he screamed at the slightest mistake until he had us going in all directions (individually) He was extremely versatile with his colouful description of our capabilities. However after about an hour we were at least managing to keep together and were marched back into the billet, I think Hut 29 and kept marching on the spot on the beautiful polished floor in our hobnailed boots. The state of the floor when we were finally halted was in a sorry state, Cpl Tosh then gave us the good news, he expected the floor to be back to its original state by inspection the following morning. I think we spent the rest of the evening on our hands and knees cleaning and polishing as well as getting our personal kit ready for the next day. Overall I reckon it took the full 8 weeks to bring it back to its original condition ready for the next intake to be introduced to the gentle administration of the DI`s.
It was shortly after this we were asked if there were any ex ATC. There were two of us!, it was explained that as ex ATC we were entitled to forego 2 weeks basic training, we jumped at the chance, Big Big mistake !!!!! By the time we were transfered to another squadron it was the weekend of the Survival Camp, exactly half way through training, by which time we had gelled together as a group and were extremely proud of our achievements and of the Squadron. We were duly dispatched to 'A' Squadron where to say the least, we were regarded as interlopers and certainly not wanted. To make our feelings worse on the day of transfer the two of us were carrying our bed packs etc along a conjoinig roadway when coming towards us was our original flight. The rules stated that in these circumstances personnel remained stationary until they had passed, which of course we did, standing to attention. As they approched, obviously Cpl Tosh recognised us and immediately gave the order 'Eyes Left' which in fact was away from us. It was one of the worst moments to be rejected by our fellows and not wanted by the other flight we were joining. Of course we survived and Passed Out as expected.
I was bound to RAF Yatesbury as an Air Radar Mechanic. My final comments are that the time at Bridgnorth made us into responsible airmen and to work together as a Unit, I would not have missed it for the world, so thank you Cpl Tosh you were a B*****D as you impressed on us, you brought us down to our knees but built us up as men."

Brian Cottier 4134106 from 1953, says that "my flight did not have a Passing Out Parade but were sent to RAF Uxbridge for the Opening by the Queen of the RAF Memorial at Runnymede which proved to be an unforgetable experience, all for the good reasons."

Albert Forsyth 3515232 from 1953, says "As well as finding an old colleague Alan Ackroyd who was in 2 flight, another old colleague has been in touch Geoffrey Johns from those good old days, thanks to this very good website. Hopefully more will get in touch as time goes by."
 
Comment by the Webmaster - Thank you for those kind words Al.   You were one of the first to register on this web site back in 2003.

See Al's other memories here and his poem about his time at RAF Bridgnorth.

David Jefferson 4259396 from 1960, says "I served in the cookhouse when on R and I camp and remember that while we were pitching the tents it rained. It was July 1960 and hot so we really welcomed the feel of the cool raindrops!
I also remember we had a Cpl Lyness as a D.I. and he was from Northern Ireland so very difficult to understand sometimes and quite brusque (as they were trained to be). However, he turned out to be the one who taught us all the 'tricks' of smart turnout and memorably showed us the drill move known as the 'Queen Anne salute'. This involved a quite complicated set of movements which included reversing the rifle and going down on one knee with head bowed and cap removed to cover the heart. I can remember being quite moved by the sight of this big man performing such a delicate and respectful salute. It's worth saying that, although the DIs were always harsh and disciplined, they had a tough job to do and did it well. They used to noisily awake we recruits at 0615 hours which we resented but I later thought, if they get us up at that hour, when do THEY get up. Not an easy job.
However, going back to the tented camp, I never did find out where they took us. Can anybody enlighten me as to where it was (or still is). Four or five days in the woods and I never asked!
The major memory is Corporal Liness (or Lyness?) His voice was loud but, with the strong Irish accent, often difficult to understand. "Swing those arms or I'll tear them off and beat you to death with the soggy ends!" springs to mind as one of the more memorable niceties of his repertoire.
Firing the Lee Enfield for the first time was an experience too, especially in 'shirt-sleeve-order'. Tended to hurt a bit. Then there were all the 'jabs'; TABT with its ability to render one totally useless in a very short period after being told to 'keep moving until you can't!'.
I remember the food was good enough and the NAAFI provided whatever else was needed. There are so many other fond memories of the place and the people that it is very difficult to write them all in this space but on any contact, it may be pleasing to talk about them."

Also see David's other memories here.
 
David has sent copies of many Standard Forms and documents. They can be found in the 'General photographs' section - 'Documentation' sub section.

John Chenery 2724439 from 1954, says he can "remember Flt Lt Pugh and Cpl DI Lackie, both very decent and enjoyed my Bridgnorth training, now aged 78 years."

David Holland 5069557 from 1959, says that "from Cardington, after being kitted out, we were herded like cattle in the train at the camps station for the long jurney to Bridgnorth. We stoped at a station about halfway to have a break there was RAF Regiment guarding from 6ft away. I was in 37 Flt D Sqd in billet No.313. The Cpls we had were Cpl Widderson and Cpl Humphies. It was hard at the time but it did me good. They never ought to have stopped it."

Jim Tanner 4093812 from 1952, says "our Drill Corporal was Cpl McWinney and Cpl Potter. I was aged 21 when I joined up and Cpl McWinney asked me how old I was? I replied "21", missing out Corporal and what? he bellowed "and 9 months" I replied, he bellowed at me "CORPORAL" I still laugh about it, even now that I am 81 years of age."

Gordon Reid C4263941 from 1961, says he "broke my leg playing football at Bridgnorth and ended up posted to Cyprus while the rest of my intake went to Aden, El Adam and some other sulubrious places. I think it was a case of it being a lucky break for me."

William McLoughlin 2459927 from 1950, says he was "just there for "square bashing". Was in the ceremonies when our camp got the Freedom of the City award. First RAF Station to get this award. Great colourful pageantry."

Peter Mason 3155588 from 1957, says "I was given the job of running the 'Bath Cleaning Team.' As far as I can remember the main benefit was that you could have your own tin of Vim powder.
We were sent on a camp somewhere in Salop in March. Bell tents, weather really cold and in order to keep warm we all slept under all the blankets. Water bowser failed to show up until the second day. Upon return to camp I went down with pneumonia and after sick leave was back flighted to, I think, D squadron..."

Tom Platts 4192345 from 1957, remembers that "first night, I was one who buried my head under the blanket and sobbed.
Then the injections: my arm was agony and the DI made me scrub the toilets. Afer the first week events began to make sense and I began to know the "blokes" in the hut.
During the Flight's first march, we were passed by another Flight who had been at Bridgnorth longer and the sods hissed us. Later, we hissed all junior Flights.
By the fourth week, we had got some in and had became daring. One night, I crept out of the hut and climbed into the Spitfire near the Guardroom. Of course, I was making all the sounds of a fighter pilot - "Bandits at 12 o'clock high" and creating the sound of machine guns. Unbeknown to me, a Flight Sergeant was standing alongide the Spitfire and witnessed my boyhood stupidity.
I am now 72 and if asked, "would you do it all again?" I confess that I would love every minute."

Gerry Marsh 2426389 from 1948, says "obviously, I would like to hear from anyone who remembers me. I must dig out my group photo and list the names on the back - those I can decipher.
I remember that in our group we had the son of comedian Enoch and Enoch watched the passing out parade. No-one was more passed out than me. Enoch's son was named Robinson and he was a professional ice skater.
The Sergeant of our billet was a Sgt Stanley. If you are reading this, Sarge, all is forgiven - now go jump in the lake."

Peter Maskrey F4254756 from 1959, says "I was in 'D' Sqn and it was a tough experience but not as bad as school!
I had a tough time with my hut nco (an acting Corporal DI) who I will call Cpl X. Seven years later in 1966 our positions were reversed when he was posted to RAF Gatow in Berlin as an LAC GD and I was a Corporal temporarily in Pool Flt (awaiting my posting to RAF Odiham) and working with the SWO, Warrant Officer Rose (a marvellous ex-aircrew man). We were preparing accommodation all over the British Sector for a Military Tattoo to be held in Berlin. My former hut nco was posted in and recognising his surname, I looked up his personal records. Sure enough, it was 'my' Cpl X. I put him on one of the working parties I was leading and we went to a former German Army camp that had been closed since 1945. I made him clean the lavatories (a job he gave me many more times than anyone else in the hut because he didn't like the way I spoke) with nothing but his bare hands just as he had done to me seven years earlier. However, it was a hollow revenge and as it went on, I became increasingly embarrassed and ashamed of what I was doing. After half an hour or so, I relieved him of the task and sent him off on lighter duties and finished the lavatories myself.
That evening, back in Gatow, I took him for a drink and apologised for what I had done. He didn't remember me from Bridgnorth and just shrugged. I was 19 at Bridgnorth and I'm 71 next week and I've never forgotten him nor the lesson I learned about revenge. He was vile to me and made my eight weeks at Bridgnorth particularly wretched and only because of my speaking voice. Our other two Flight Corporals knew what was going on and both told me after we had had our passing out parade that I had been the better man for putting up with it. You just can't beat prejudice.
Since those days, I've always tried to be sensitive concerning the things I'm prejudiced about and try to empathise with those I might otherwise seek to ostracise. Perhaps the Cpl X experience had some plusses after all!"

Also see Peter's other memories here

John Waller 3127604 from 1950, says "It's too long ago. I remember there was a 7 involved in the address - Hut 7 Flight 7?"
 
The photograph John sent is listed as '1950 - 7 Flt in July'

Donald Pointon 3106444 from 1947, says "I remember a Sgt Downie - a fine gentleman."

Alastair Whitehead 4188668 from 1956, says "On the 5th Sat we all went off to Wolverhampton for the afternoon, except the senior man as he was tied to the underside of his bed frame! I missed the last bus back and walked all the way back, got in about midnight. As I entered the billet all was quiet and dark I thought, I had worken everyone up when I crashed into placed obstacles then found my bed had been removed and put in the store room! Ha! Ha! they laughed, so I got it out etc. Next morning I found I was tied to my bed up on tables! lots of laughs all round."

Graham Hobbs 5063465 from 1958, says that "Basic Training and drill was hard work but frequently very enjoyable and satisfying. Billet Corporal was strict but fair, the Flight Sergeant rather scary. I remember being told by him that I would catch my death of cold because a button was undone on my tunic jacket.
Rifle drill after innoculations "to reduce the stiffness in the arm muscles" remains a painful memory.
I remember also one evening going around the huts where the latest intake had been billeted to see if there was anyone from my home city (Oxford) and finding that my best school mate, Geoffrey Boyles, had arrived and was able to re-assure him that despite the scary atmosphere of the first few hours at RAF Bridgnorth it was not such a bad place to be at all. He later went on to become an RAF Policeman.
I enjoyed the rugby and the three days in tented camp. In the town I went along to the local scout troop weekly evening meeting for about four weeks and at weekends remember attending the Methodist Church services and going to Toc-H for a cup of tea and a bun on several occasions."
 
The photograph Graham sent is listed as '1958 - 24 Flt in Nov'

Ron Boswell 5080128 from 1960, says "National Service basic training hut 298 with Cpl Host? and Cpl Hoath.
Married just one week when called up on 16 Aug 1960 to Cardington, slow train to Bridgnorth. Weeks passed being shouted at, then to London route lining for the King and Queen of Nepal. Horse Guards and Whitehall. Actually stood at end of Downing Street (no gates then)"

Roger Sayer 4262527 from 1961, says he has "two memories above all others - how cold it was, we stole and burnt furniture to keep warm when the coke ran out! And the ban-the bomb demonstrators who delayed our first weekend passes by laying down to obstruct our military coaches on route to London rail terminals - oh bliss! Still, I stuck it for another 32 years so it could not have been that off-putting."

Frank Atkinson 4066092 from 1951, says " I remember so well arriving at Bridgnorth from Cardington. I had been pre-warned by others that the first thing to happen, on our arrival, would be an instruction to "fall outside the billet with our knifes, forks, spoons and mugs and that we would then be marched in threes to the cookhouse. Duly warned I ensured that, on leaving Cardington, my knife, fork,spoon and mug would be the last things to be packed in my kit bag. This would mean, on arrival at Bridgnorth, I would probably have the advantage of being amongst the first to "fall outside" and consequently would be amongst the first in the queue at the cookhouse. Sure enough...this did happen. I grabbed my knife, fork, spoon and mug, rushed out and "eureka" was in the first three and right at the head of the squad.
The Corporal then began to march us towards the cookhouse and as we approached I could smell the aroma of food. I was starving not having eaten since breakfast. The nearer we came to the cookhouse the more my anticipation of getting some food grew ... until, to my horror ... the Corporal marched us past the main doors ...shouted halt ...then "about turn" and now, there I was, at the back of the queue. Corporal shouted "Right...get your dinner and out here in a half hour.
Needless to say, being now at the back of the queue, I no sooner had my dinner plate in my hands that it was time to leave. I often wonder who ate that dinner because it certainly was not me."
 
The photographs Frank sent are listed as '1951 - 7 June Parade' on the General photographs page and '1951 - Atkinson Flt'

Lawrence McDonald 4050997 from 1950, says that he "was there in October, very cold, used to raid coal store to replenish our stocks.
In the 1950 November Flight photograph I am on the extreme second row from the front. Another drill instructor was Cpl Dolman, I would like to meet him again! who was also NCO in charge of my hut (cannot remember number) I was in 13 Flt."

Roy Lucas 3518249 from 1954-1955 and 1958-1959, says he would like "to meet up with the D I A.Cpl's when I was above the line Cpl. What fun."

John White 4195202 from 1957, says "What a culture shock on arrival, I remember our D.I was a Cpl Holmes, hut 182, he was human but didn't realise till end of square bashing! Signed for 3 years and ended up on Christmas Island.... happy days and I am still here!!"

Colin Fraser 2776885 from 1955, says it was "Bloody cold. Some misery but some good company and fun!"

Boyd Hyslop 4089943 from 1952, says he "just missed being on the King's funeral - unfortunately in hospital for a week. One of the Royal Tournament club swingers from Bridgnorth 1952."
 
The photographs Boyd sent are listed as '1952 - Hut 25, 5 Flt' and '1952 - 5 Flt'

The Son of now deceased Anthony Bird 3111210 from 1947-1948, says his Father "went in from the Air Cadets in Reading, Berkshire. Bridgnorth was an expansive site, spent Christmas of 1947 on the base, the meal was quite good judging by the menu card although it's covered in signatures, from the NCO's, Cooks, 3 Wing NAAFI staff and AC.2's."

Dennis Whiteman 4098058 from 1952, remembers that "when getting off the bus, I didn't know what had hit me. The Drill Instructors ran us around until fit to drop. But from a rabble at the beginning, we finished up as a very proud bunch, winning the passing out parade trophy.
I would not have missed it, it instilled discipline and a pride in my general being. Many good friends were made in that period, something that would not have happened without Service life. I look back with affection and thanks for the experience."

Mick Williams C4274353 from 1962, says "No doubt I have very similar memories to everybody else who passed through Bridgnorth in that summer: the shock to the system of shorn hair, the unforgettable taste of the pint-mug tea (did it really have bromide in it?) and the aluminium mess-tins; the physical agony of PT and route marches, constant ironing of blue serge blankets cut into the shape of trousers, polishing of brass buttons, hot-spooning boots and skating on the brown lino floors with foot-rags, the novelty of meeting other lads with different dialects and the growing sense of comradeship and fun....The mysterious creaking of bedsprings during the night, the weight of a Bren gun and the loudness of the bangs; Pay parades in a vast hangar and the interminable wait if your surname was at the end of the alphabet; R & I training at Sleap airfield. The NCO's were hard but also compassionate.
Putting on civvies for the first time in weeks was bliss. Returning home, straight-backed square-shouldered and physically fit invited admiration and praise from the older generations but a new reservedness from former pals......
Looking back, it's amazing how RAF Bridgnorth transformed naive unfit youngsters into fit, self-disciplined individuals ready for the next stages of RAF life. The drill and marching never left me. I still feel gratitude to the NCO's we had then (one was Cpl Wiseman) and would like to feel that I tried to emulate their compassionate efficiency during my later service. I shall forward some photo's shortly. I was lucky to go through RAF Bridgnorth."

Tommy Burrell U4273325 from 1962, remembers "getting up at 04.30 in the morning just to clean your kit and your floor space. After your space was clean, you walked about or slide about, with pieces of pads under your feet just to keep it clean for 06.30 inspection, all before breakfast.
Our Sergeant from Scotland was a very hard task master and never relented, even on our last night before the pass out parade. Cpl Pedrie was a very tough D I but he had a drink with the boys and came to see us off after pass out.
Good times, I enjoyed my time during recruit training at Bridgnorth, nice little town. Good comraidship. Bridgnorth made a man of me."

Alexander John MacDonald 4266991 from 1961, says "I think the drill Sergeant was a Sgt Davies. Small in stature but what a mouth and a right tough little B. Doing the bed packs every morning and marching down to the mess for breakfast with mug and cutlery in hands. The cross country runs and the spell spent under canvas. The NAAFI with the juke box."

Geoff Cole 2419037 from 1949-1950, remembers "Square bashing, route marches in the snow, painting the edges of coal dumps with white paint. Drinking my first beer in Bridgnorth. Polishing boots with spit and polish. Sticking bayonets in a dummy with blood curdling shout. After 8 weeks becoming a highly trained drill man."

Ronald Phipps 4066114 from 1950, says "I remember the Sergeant said he would split me into a million pieces if I didn't light his fire. I also remember a young lad was told to run around the parade ground holding a daffodil above his head because he couldn't master his drill. Happy memories."

Maurice Dodds 4258969 from 1960, remembers "going on R & I camp for 3 days which lasted for 10 days, then on return to camp being told that I was heading for London to line the route for the Queen & the Queen of Tonga."

Harland Griffith 4248405 from 1959, remembers "Feb 3rd 1959, when the news broke on the box in the billet about the plane crash! The day 'the music died."

William Stanley 3090687 from 1946, says "I believe the camp was a new venue for square bashing and I met some wonderful guys. The weather got colder and by Christmas the severe winter of 1947 started."

Mick Wood 4249356 from 1959, says that "after intake at Cardington, I arrived at Bridgnorth railway station. I remember assembly in the Station yard, a Sergeant shouted "This way all regulars, on to the buses lads." At the other end, was a line of canvass covered lorries, the Sergeant changed to a rather more hostile and louder tone, shouting "This way National Servicemen" From then on, those on National Service did not appear to be treated as well as the Regulars.
It was something of a culture shock for all of us I think. We soon learned what discipline was all about and I wish that some of the youth of today were put through the same experience. I liked the GDT course....learning about tear gas, using radiation detectors and about atomic bombs, etc. On the firing range, I was lucky to be one of the exceptions to the rule in winning my Marksmens badge with a Bren Gun, rather than a 303 Lee Enfield rifle.
I can remember bulling the billet floor with one of those infernal heavy things with a cast iron weight, called a bumper...they really did shine the lino. I bet you cannot find linoleum of that quality today, it had a hessian backing and was about 6mm thick. Then there were the cast iron coke stoves, two in each hut. One guy had a home made still on one of those and made some wicked spirit stuff, it went on the stove at night and was hidden away under the hut during the day.
I particularly remember a local young lad who delivered papers to the Mess, he offered to show me around the area surrounding the town of Bridgnorth and I found the place very interesting, especially the cliff railway. The young mans name was Michael Kirk, son of W/O Kirk who lived in the married quarters. Michael joined the Royal Navy and wrote to me once from his training camp at HMS Falmouth. Of course we were all embarking on our careers at that time so we lost touch, there were such a wide variety of places we were posted to from No.7 S of R T. I went to Melksham for training as a ground electrician and it led to a career as a self-employed electrical contractor in later civilian life. I would be pleased to hear from anyone who remembers me."

Donald Cunningham 3119545 from 1949, says "I think that I'm on the picture captioned "1949 - Hut ?" submitted by Bob Clews on behalf of Vic Cook. I don't really remember Vic but I wonder if he has a better memory than me. I was senior man in the hut because I had been in the A.T.C. I had to assign the fatigues which wasn't a job that won popularity."

Gilbert Cliffe Taylor 5062367 from 1958, says "after six weeks training, despatched to RAF Uxbridge for eight days to practice for route lining ceremony in London. Returned to Bridgnorth in time for the passing out parade."

Dennis Creasey 2374093 from 1947, says "No.18 Flt. Freezing cold. Night guard to flush toilets to stop them from freezing up. Running around lanes in boots, shorts and vest. 'Aquiring' as much food as possible. One of my fatigues was putting the shine on blocks of buns with a camel hair brush and a bowl of molten butter. Every one of my hut who came by got a block of buns (5x5). No hot water in 18 Flt ablutions. Shaved with a dry razor. When asked by the Corporal if I had shaved and replying 'yes' he would say "Well stand closer to the B....Y razor next time. Unable to use firing range, too much snow. There was only one radio between four huts and the hut deemed to be the best on inspection got it for a week. Despite everything we had a lot of laughs."

James Rutland 4267710 from 1961, says "I got back flighted due to a reaction to the smallpox jab and a few days in sick quarters.
Got sent home when all the pipes in the camp froze and burst during Christmas. The passages next to the ablutions were inches thick with ice where the water had flowed down them. It was too cold for us to go out sleeping under canvas thank goodness.
I have never been as fit as I was when I left Bridgnorth. I am sorry I cannot remember what hut or flight I was in."

Lyn Morgan H4272428 from 1962, says "I joined in July 1962 fresh from the Welsh coal mines. I was in 13 Flt, hut 130 and our overseer was Sgt Haddon. I would love to get in touch with anyone who was in the same Sqn. at that time.
I started off as a radar technician, but was soon told to join the station band as I could play a brass instrument. I was then instructed by W/O Ritchie to attend an audition for the RAF music services at Uxbridge which I duly did and this changed my life."

David Stevens 3154998 from 1959, says it was "tough but what good company and comradeship. Would go again if I had a choice."

Michael Turner 4172844 from 1956, says "it was great to get out of camp and go into town but money was very short in those days and you were lucky to go down town one night."

Ronald Stempfer 5037604 from 1956, says that "as a racing cyclist I took my training cycle back to camp on my return from Xmas leave. I had arranged with the NAAFI manageress to store my cycle in one of their out sheds. On Wednesday sports day I got a pass to go out of camp to do road training, during the week after doing my chores, I spent a session in the Gym on a workout on their training rollers."
 
The photographs Ron sent are listed as '1957 - Hut 180 'C' Sqd' and '1957 - 28 Flt in Feb'

Edward Newman 5079675 from 1960, says "First Monday on camp my 22nd birthday still did drill boo hoo."

Michael Kidley J4262825 from 1961, says "I remember leaving Cardiff recruiting office with 5 others to go by train to Raf Cardington. We were picked up from the Station and taken to Cardington where, believe it or not, we had some Flt Lt showing us how to make bedpacks. We spent the next three days getting our uniform and thinking, if this is the RAF, then give us more. Wrong we got on the coach to go to RAF Bridgnorth, singing bawdy songs all the way.
We got to Bridgnorth and there was a welcoming party there and they were all shouting at us. We thought what have we let ourselves in for, we want to go home. Six weeks into the square bashing and we were packed off to see a Charlie Chester Show in the gymnasium.
Next day I was called in to the Sgts office with two other mates and we were told that we were going to be backflighted for insubordination by four weeks. We only asked why did they have to shout and they didn't like it.
I remember the first Indian person to wear a turban with the RAF badge on his name I think was Duljeet Hassis. He said that he was friends with a girl called Donella Webb. Later I found out that Webb was Cliff Richards name and this was Cliff's sister.
Survived my back flighting and passed out successfully twelve weeks later instead of eight. Now I am a Flt Lt in the RAFVR(T)"

Alan Dumbell from 1960, says "always remember being so proud on my passing out day parade. We were awarded best flight of that intake. Unfortunately cannot remember the precise flight number, but pretty sure it was hut 36.
I joined in January 1960, so guess I was at Bridgnorth around early spring."

James Purkiss 3160995? from 1953, says he remembers "marching through town with fixed bayonets."

Tommy Hunn 5091483 from 1960, says he has "just discovered the photo of 38 Flt 'D' Sqd posted by Colin Clarke on 12th Sept 2010. It certainly brought back good memories. I even recognised and remembered the names of some after all these years."
 
The photograph Tommy sent is listed as '1960 - Hut 313, 38 Flt'

Kevin Price S5076753 from 1960, says "I'm afraid I don't remember the hut or Flt I was in but do recall being made SWOs' runner for a day, wearing a special waist belt with the RAF Crest as the buckle and sitting outside his office, awaiting the various jobs he may allocate!
I also played cricket for Bridgnorth, I think it was away, against RAF Cosford. Our D.I's were I think Cpl Latcham, RAF and Cpl K Barnes, RAF Regt."

Bill Naulder 5021427 from 1956, says "I remember our Drill Instructor Cpl Archibald (a really nice guy) who taught us (among other things) how to iron our uniforms. He did it so well that I still iron all my own clothes to this day. My 'Better half' will always be eternally grateful!"

Derek Broughton 4098042 from 1952, says "I won the long distance in the sports day to take the cup for 24 Flt."

John Bird G4245022 from 1958, says "not sure of the names, it was a long time ago. However, there were ten of us and we were known and photographed as 'The 215 Rebels'."
 
The photograph John sent is listed as '1958 - The 215 Rebels'

Arthur Bennett 3123420 from 1949, says he can "remember being on guard of honour for Arthur Henderson MP Secretary of State for Air and on Armistice Parade into Bridgnorth."

Bryan Pearson 5061059 from 1957, remembers the "same day after needles at the M.O. going to see Wolves football game in a packed crowd. Thanks."

Tommy Mirfield 5039989 from 1957, remembers that he "boarded train at RAF Cardington - arrived at Bridgnorth Stn. 5 canvas covered wagons took us to RAF Bridgnorth. They parked up under an open fronted hanger and then it started - D I's screaming and shouting - most of the lads wondered what had hit them - one lad said to me "who the hell are they shouting at?" - I said, I've got a feeling it's us. Our feet never touched the ground for about a week - good stuff. Fantastic memories when I look back."
 
The photograph Tom sent is listed as '1957 - Hut 11 in April'

Chris Fox 4272946 from 1962, remembers the "first two weeks spent carrying coke in dustbins to the barrack blocks."

Bernard Alderwick 4116257 from 1952, was "made to work hard polishing floors, march in step, jump to orders, oh and fire a 303 enfield rifle. Came here as a jumped up teddy boy, left as a man. Gosh we were smart. What I learnt there has help me all my life."

Michael Stuart M4255945 from 1960, says "I was in D Sqn Hut 219 January 1960 till April 1960. Drill instructor's Cpl Orange & Cpl Nimick, NCO Ic Sgt Rankin. I have many happy memories of my time doing square bashing. Our D Sqn won the Drill Cup which was a highlight."

Robert Douglass 4260178 from 1960, says "It was a chore but looking back it was very memorable and afforded many good laughs."

Alan Clegg R3528152 from 1959, asks "Where am I on all those hut photos ????"

Brian Chapman 3524217 from 1957, remembers "Cpl Phillips "I am going to hammer you" - presented with rubber hammer on passing out."

Dave Irwin Q4264626 from 1961, says he remembers "being driven through the main gates in the boot of a car, along with about 4 others.
All of us ganging up to help a guy who was being picked on by the 'orrible corporal wot kept shouting at us'..."
 
The photograph Dave sent is listed as '1961 - Irwin Flt'

Colin Tunstall 5026313 from 1956, says that "having revisited the site of the former RAF station for the first time since 1956, memories came flooding back, particularly the times we would walk into Bridgnorth for the nights entertainment (pubs/dances etc) even though the camp itself was a considerable distance from the town. (Things you do when you're young and probably intoxicated)"

Ray Rooks 3149404 from 1956, says he "looks back fondly although it was tough at the time! Was selected for trade "Science 3b" Didn't know what that was but it was preferrable to kitchen asst. It was an early attempt at time and motion study."

John Halligan L4200601 from 1957, says "It's not easy to remember incidents after all these years. However, I don't suppose any Serviceman forgets the D.I's that trained them. Our first D.I's were Cpl Pottinger and Cpl Louch. Later they were replaced by Cpl Hayes."

Dimitri Harris C4269133 from 1962, says "I joined up on the 1st Jan 1962, travelled up to Wolverhampton from London on the same day, was a cold day and it had snowed. I was picked up along with several other new recruits from a bus shelter specifically put there for picking up recruits. My first week or two was spent in Holding Flight? until I was then listed to 10 Flight A Sqdn.
I do remember another recruits surname, I think it was Blenkinsop. I was in the first hut closest to the road. We had a ex national serviceman as the head of the billet, he was a very nice gentleman.
I also recall an incident that happened, We had to go on a two or three day field camp where the whole of A Sdn was taken to some old disused airfield and we had to set up tents etc.., the weather was so bad that the exercise had to be called off and we had to wait until transport came to take us back to Bridgnorth.
Myself, Malcolm Froud and a third Airman, name forgotten, as we were the tallest, led the flight onto the parade ground. We won the Drill Cup. One of the drill corporals was Cpl Billington, I think the other Cpl was Smith. There was a Sgt whose name I have forgotten. Can anyone recall the names of other Airmen in 10 Flt, I remember a Dave Roti, a Davis.
If you have any photos of 10 Flt could you please post them.
If my memory is correct, I think our passing out parade was in April or May, I then went on a weeks leave and returned back to camp awaiting posting to RAF Compton Bassett which happened in the month of June. I do recall another surname, Garreth. Yes I spent about 6 months at RAF Bridgnorth.
I remember going into Bridgnorth town to see the film the Young Ones. They are very happy memories of happy days. I also remember a permanent staff member who worked in the leave and pay records, his name was Derrington White.
I now live in Melbourne Vic Australia and would love to find any news of 10 Flt A Sqd. Dimitri Harris, ex Airman, origins from Ceylon."

George Upton 4087960 from 1951, says "I arrived at Bridgnorth on a cold December day and for the next 8 weeks I learned the meaning of discipline with tyrants (sorry nice drill instructors) convincing me that I had never had a father and then describing what I looked like in my greatcoat and webbing belt. I think a sack full of **** tied up in the middle with a piece of string comes fairly close.
I quickly learned to guard my eating irons (cutlery) as they were liable to disappear if someone else lost theirs.
I recall the first time we were given leave. I had palled up with a lad by the name of Ron Pennycard from Brighton, we had met when travelling up on the first day. We had agreed to meet on Brighton station (I was travelling from Hastings) my train was delayed badly but good old Ron waited for me so when I eventually arrived, we had missed all our connections. When we got to Wolverhampton station it was gone 11:00 p.m. The RAF transport had left, we had no money so we walked from Wolverhampton to Bridgnorth, I believe about 11 miles. We arrived a little before 6:00 a.m. and not wanting to be charged with being A.W.O.L. we climbed over the back fence, dodged the guards and crawled into our beds. 15 minutes later in came Corporal "outside in 3 ranks in 5 minutes" I still don't know how we kept awake that day.
On the good side, I left Bridgnorth as fit as I have ever been in my life. Nice memories. Ron hope you have had a good life."
 
George later added this note;

Searched the hut/flight photos in the hope of finding one of myself and failing, I was extremely delighted to receive a copy of this via e mail, sent to me by Colin Underwood 4087933 and I see this is now on your pages as '1952 - Underwood's Hut'. I think I recognise the chap sitting next to the D.I. on his right as the senior man, unfortunately can't recall the hut number, D.I's name or much else.
Only other thing I remember was another D.I. who used to march around with his fingers outspread, very much like Edward Scissor hands in later life. Anyway, thanks very much for your interesting pages and especially thanks to Colin Underwood for the photo.

Terry Bennett 5068006 from 1959, says "I was in the Radio engineering unit. I also played the organ at the camp church."

Christopher Walker 4273330 from 1962, says his "DI was Cpl Child-Freeman, the Sgt. was called Sgt Orange. I seem to remember he died in a motor bike accident whilst we were in training. I met up with Child-Freeman in 1964 at Akrotiri, whilst on the yearly arms training, what a changed man. After square bashing, I was posted back to Bridgnorth fire section, to await a course at Compton Bassett. It was great to wander around camp without the coloured disc behind the cap badge."

Terry Bunce D4249105 from 1959, says it was the "coldest winter known for many years. Many trainees coming down with flu. Half the camp sick at one time or another. Lining up for meals, over 200 in training at the time. Mad Mary the cook house Flight Sergeant. So disappointed when I had to leave early to commence trade training and therefore missed out on the end of course parade."

David Welch E4275308 from 1962 - 1963, says "I arrived at Wolverhampton station late afternoon on 29 October, 1962, where I had been told that transport would take me to RAF Bridgnorth, I was the first of the recruits to arrive but was soon joined by Gill Singh, from London then Nick Parry and Brian Murphy, from Liverpool. Others then started to arrived from various places throughout the British Isles (yes, even southern Ireland).
A coach eventually arrived and took us on the journey to Bridgnorth. I seem to remember that we were taken straight to 22 Flt HQ, B Sqd, where we were met by Cpl Willis, our DI for the next few weeks. He called our names and allocated beds in the three huts belonging to the flight, then, sort of marched us down to the mess for a meal, after which we made our way back to the hut where we waited for his return. He explained a few essential things to us and explained that when an NCO or Officer entered the room whoever saw him first had to shout out NCO PRESENT and we all had to stand to attention. The rest of the evening was spent in the NAAFI, I think.
The following morning I think we were addressed by several people including the bandmaster, I joined the station band, a good move as I found out later! I suppose that our training followed the same route as those who had been before us. Corporal Willis, was a good DI, firm but not aggressive towards any of us that I can remember. He did, of course throw the odd bed pack on the floor and the blanket with all of someone's kit laid out on it.
Reading other memories on this website, it seems that everyone's winters at Bridgnorth were cold, ours certainly was at the end of 1962 and beginning of 1963. I recall that the coke in the two coke bins in the hut was not allowed to be used as it was laid to perfection at just the right angle, instead there was an old rusty bin out the back of the hut that we had to take to collect coke from the fuel dump.
I think that we had to do station duties during the third week, I was detailed to polish the B Squadron HQ floors which were easy to do whereas some were detailed to the mess kitchen or on working parties around the camp.
I remember doing Ground Defence Training but can't recall having to wear a respirator or going in the Gas Chamber, I think we just had to throw ourselves down on our stomach, put our hands under our chest and push our faces into the ground in the event of a Nuclear Attack!!! We had to fire on the range, of course, which I think we all enjoyed.
I think that it was during the last week of December, having returned from our Christmas break the flight went off for their field trip for a few days, in the snow! As I was a voluntary bandsman, I didn't have to do this because of the Senior flight's passing out parade on the Friday.
After the others returned from their field trip, I seem to remember that the bull in the hut was greatly reduced and as long as everywhere was kept clean and tidy, that was sufficient.
Then the first week of January it was our flights turn to pass out. I can't remember whether it was snowing but the parade was held in the drill hanger, so only some of the bandsmen were required but not me, so I missed my own pass out parade (does this mean that I never really qualified as an AC2? I hope that if the powers that be read this, then they don't call me back to complete my training!!!)"
 
The photographs David sent are listed as '1962 - Hut 206, 22 Flt' and '1962 - 22 Flt'.

Victor Ford Y4254983 from 1959, says "my main memory is charging off to the NAAFI every evening for extra food!"

Peter Charnley 2536759 from 1952 - 1953, says that "after trade training at RAF Hereford I was posted to Bridgnorth. I resided in Hut 7 and was employed in SHQ Central Drafting Office as the POR Clerk for the permanent staff. My colleague, SAC Ted Sisterson was the POR Clerk for the recruits on the camp. Our supervising Sgt was called Sgt Radford who had been a Jap POW during the war. Other members of our staff were LAC Joe Muir, a good footballer who had played for Third Lanark prior to his National Service. LAC Derek Reeves, LAC Ian Irvine and LAC Dennis Devine. Sadly the last three mentioned are now deceased. All the Clerks were housed in hut 7 and next door in hut 8 were based the Store men who included two well known footballers of the time namely Peter Broadbent and Ron Flowers, both of Wolverhampton Wanderers. Needless to say we had a good Station football team."

Daniel Paterson 4090693 from 1952, says he has "memories of a very cold Janurary day, snow and ice on the ground and Cpl Masters, he also had another name (unprintable) throwing our kit bags at us, causing us to go flying on our rear ends, while he stood on the rear of the truck having a great laugh. How we wished for a strike of lightning.
Other than that I quite enjoyed my time and the company in our hut. I would like to hear from any of the lads who were there at that time in hut 218 and were posted to Egypt before we finished our training."

James Turnbull 2782873 from 1956, says his "memories include a cold January, meeting new friends all in the same boat, a bit nervous but met some great people.
I think we were F Flt? Have the hut photogragh with all the names including Eddie Davidson from Glasgow, Malcolm Sykes - London, Ray Parry - Chester, Robin Jackson - Windsor. Many others, in fact all who shared that hut with me in Janury 1956. Hope someone out there remembers."

Robert Walton F4192057 from 1957, says he remembers it being "cold, had to keep stove fully fired up. Cpl Britain & Sgt Spearman. He was demobbed at end of course, clubbed together to buy him an inscribed lighter.
Other AC2's were Brian Noakes, Brian Twelvetrees, Dave Smith, A.S Bellhouse, W Farncourt, A Wears, M Bristol, Chas Smith. Other faded signatures, unable to translate.
Lucky me, next to stove, only had to get up through the night to stoke it up. Also the daily battle for the ablutions with other huts, hunting for stiff carboard to reinforce back packs and bed packs, happy days!!!!"

Sydney Patience 5061796 from 1958, says "we had a Corporal in our barrack, his name was Cpl Eden. We had a Carl Ruhew (Austrailian) R Pringl, L.W. Phillips, best mate Don Marshall from South Shields came home with me for the weekend before transit to Germany.
We lifted some snoring sod in his bed and placed him on the parade ground, name I can't remember.
Would like to get in touch with Don Marshall, Reg Benjamin? or Reg Betterridge? Colin Vance 4242327, I live in hope, thank you."

Martin Dredge C4275637 from 1962, says he was "part of 19 Flt. We were the last flight to train at Bridgnorth. I well remember David Winter and wish him well."

Former Plt. Off. Grenville Williams 3122758 from 1950-1951, says "a week at Padgate in September 1950 was my first experience of National Service life in the RAF, followed by 8 weeks of 'square-bashing' not at Bridgnorth but at Wilmslow where I think conditions were pretty much the same. Shortly after arrival I was made 'leading cadet' of my Flight by the Sergeant (Blackman) - not a great advantage for I had to take the 'flak' when things went wrong. But in the third week I was lucky enough to be fished out of the Flight to be interviewed by the C.O. to see if I would be suitable for a commission - and so it came about that after 'passing out' with the gang at Wilmslow I went for OCTU training at Kirton-in-Lindsey before receiving my first posting as an officer - to Bridgnorth as a Flight Commander. Another National Serviceman who followed the same route through Wilmslow and Kirton-in-Lindsey to Bridgnorth was Ron Hinings; he was allocated to 3 Wing and I to 2 Wing.

Because I had acutely remembered how the drill corporals had treated us recruits at Wilmslow I was determined to try and give new recruits in my Flight at Bridgnorth a reasonable time there. I had realised that the discipline and physical training had had a beneficial effect on me and many of my fellow-recruits - had made men of us - and so those elements had to remain; but the way of DIs treating recruits like dirt must be avoided if possible. I was given charge of 10 Flight in 'C' Squadron, 2 Wing and during the 18 months I was there they won the passing-out parade cup several times. On one intake in March 1950 I had a double problem - trying to identify two sets of identical twins - the Hepburns and the Taits; quite difficult on pay parade. The NCOs that I had with me at different times on 'C' Squadron were F.Sgt.Downie, Sgts. Jordan, Fox and Clowes and Cpls. Blight, Dolman, Ostler and Hagerty; they were on the whole a good bunch and made my life as a relatively raw flight Commander a good bit more agreeable. Our boss was Sqn Ldr Pickett - a very good-natured West Countryman; you couldn't ask for a better leader - a blend of firmness and compassionate understanding of human nature. I had found that the best way of getting to know the recruits was to go in plain clothes to visit their huts of an evening, and I came across all sorts of men with such different aspirations of what they were going to do after finishing their National Service. I always tried to attend each course's passing-out party in the NAAFI and aimed to make myself useful by playing the piano for their sing-song.

On 29th September 1950 I heard that a recruit on 13 flight who had become ill and had been taken into hospital, had died overnight. I, along with most of the Permanent Staff, were a bit shocked, but I thought no more about it until the following Monday morning the Station Adjutant (Flt.Lt.Stafford) rang me up to tell me I had been detailed to attend A/c Thomas' funeral with Flt.Lt. Rothwell. I thought it was a bit unfair as the airman was not from my own flight and I really did not know him. However off we went the following Tuesday in Dougie Rothwell's Bond Minicar. It's a 3-wheeler and a form of transport I would not recommend! In it you feel very close to the ground and it's not the most reliable of cars - it stalled once or twice and was reluctant to get going again. But we eventually reached Gloucester and the following day duly visited the bereaved family at Dursley and led the funeral cortege to the local church and graveyard. On the return journey to Bridgnorth we were following a big lorry (in the Minicar) when it suddenly needed to stop without warning; the only alternative to going under the lorry was to go round it - so Dougie headed for the path. Our nearside rear wheel caught the kerb and projected us in the air; we made a fine 3-point landing on the path and came to rest with a hissing sound from the rear wheel. After changing the wheel we were again on the road and eventually reached camp in time for dinner.

Another outside duty was to appear at the Magistrate's Court in Bridgnorth to testify to the accused airman's service character. A/C Hooper was the airman and his case was the last to be heard that day; the bench of magistrates (which I noted in my diary consisted of 4 old men and one deaf woman) were by then tired and they gave poor Hooper 3 months and a £2.8s.0d fine.
 
  Continue reading Grenville's memories here ........
 
The twenty one photographs Grenville sent are listed as;
In the 'General photographs' section -
'1950 - View of SQH'   ,  '1950 - View looking East'   ,   '1950 - View looking North East'
'1950 - View looking South East'   ,   '1950 - Aerial view of SQH'   ,  '1950 - Aerial view of 4 Wing'
'1950 - Astra cinema'   ,  '1950 - Inside the Astra'   ,   '1950 - Remembrance Day'
'1950 - Remembrance Day salute'   ,  '1950 - Fire Section'
In the 'Photographs of People' section -
'1950 - 10 Flt, 2 Wing'   ,  '1950 - Athletics'   ,  '1950 - Cycle Sports'
'1951 - 15 Flt in Sept'   ,  '1951 - Education Section'

Melvyn Freeman H4275068 from 1962, says he realls "good times and bad times. Remember Geoff Phillips and Clive Andrews. I can recall one day the Corporal asked if any of us knew anything about lawn-mowers and having previously worked in a lawnmower shop, I immediately bellowed out " Yes Corporal". The Corporal then pointed to the grass area outside the hut and bawled out "Then you can bloody well mow this grass this afternoon".
Happy times, made me a man, gave me a sense of discipline and respect. I went on to serve almost 23 years in Air Traffic Control."

Keith Deakin 3148198 from 1955, says he "arrived from Cardington for square bashing, a shock to the system, will never forget the first kit layout the following morning, the hut looked like a bomb had hit after the inspection carried out by our beloved sergeant and two corporals, but from fear things gradually got better.
I remember two nights on Wenlock Edge sleeping under tents made from our gas capes, this being January and very cold and wet.
I can also remember a very cold period with water mains freezing leaving only one ablutions block in use, those were the days I will never forget."

Robert Phillips 5090146 from 1957, says "I remember the Passing Out Parade when I literally passed out. I also remember the smell of the adjacent sewage works when we were on the rifle range."

Donald Wray 4174173 from 1955, found it "rather daunting at first but I made fantastic friends - sad to leave them after square bashing - the youth of today would benefit from the discipline we had."

Graham Booth 4261353 from Nov 1960, says "I can remember quite vividly when we arrived at Bridgnorth been chased into our hut. I went flying on the floor even though it had been roughed up by the outgoing flight. What a way to start. I seem to remember that we were in with the last National Service conscipts. Like everyone else, looking back it was a great time but so was my RAF career.
One of my worst memories was drawing the short straw when we where all allocated jobs to do for about 3 days. Mine was the 'tin room' in the canteen.
I seem to remember having the TABT jab on the Saturday and then having the Sunday off to recover. There again it might be my memory failing again.
Also being dropped off miles from anywhere with a list of 6 tasks to do before returning back to camp. One of the these tasks was to find a fly. Sounds simple but this was the middle of December.
After Bridgnorth I was posted to Yatesbury for Radar training then on to Valley (4FTS) and Oakington (5(FTS) finally to Lyneham."

Frank Abbott 2768721 from 1954-1955, says it was "quite amazing. In an idle moment I put in Frank Abbott Peterborough into the Internet over this Christmas and the only reference to me was connected with Bridgnorth and pressing the key a photograph of all my hut companions in October 1955 appeared as if by accident. I could even remember all the faces.
I have many memories, not the least in learning all the verses of both Protestant supporter's football songs from a Rangers supporter and Catholic supporter's songs from a Celtic supporter. All of us in the hut being the best of friends.
We were rubbish at drill, but for some unknown reason we had very good expertise at the funeral march discipline and our flight ended up being complimented on that element of our drill.
I remember the reception on arriving at Bridgnorth on the lorry bringing us from the station from Cardington, when we believed the threats of the welcoming committee, ie drill instructors, that we could end up in a military prison if we did not obey their yells of command. There are so many memories it would be boring for other readers to see, as I am sure we all have fond and not so fond memories of our service days."

Mike Coady 3529177 from 1960, says "I had a great time while at RAF Brignorth and enjoyed the whole stay. I was delighted with the meals in the camp cookhouse and I had no complaints at all.
I seem to remember it was 40 flight D Sqdn,(Yellow disc behind beret badge) that was my intake, but can't recall the hut number. I also think it was the last of the delayed call up intakes, (for those that had just finished a time served) apprenticeship.
I remember the arrival on the train and the locals who seemed to gather at just right the time to watch the fun, watching as the recruits were shouted at getting off the train. I also remember well, the ride on the bus into the unknown to the camp which was a bit of a guess too, but soon settled in to the routine, once we were marched away and we were given a hut.
I wish I could do it again now and have a bit of fun as we did then. Bridgnorth was a nice little place, but I did not get the chance to spend much time there. Those times for me were happy days, young and full of ambition.
It is a pity the National service short call up finished, for these days I am sure, most of our young folk would enjoy it and to have the choice of a two or three year spell, would do a lot for our younger folk and give those that went in, a good start and open up an opportunity to become proud and it would stand them in good stead for the future.
I was sad to find out that the RAF station had closed down. Best of luck with the future to all of the old guys out there and also my kind regards to the residents of Bridgnorth."

Les Cooper 4161291 from 1954-1955, says he can "remember having food poisoning and 2-day camp somewhere in snow-covered Shropshire hills, making own tents with ground sheets, ball of string and ferns as base for bedding. Applied for posting to Germany after training, but was sent to Shawbury (until November 56) and finished at Stafford as Corporal in SIRS department (demobbed November 57."

Brian Pluse 5064854 from 1958-1959, says he can "remember the passing out parade, 20mm of snow fell whilst we waited for the CO to arrive."
 
The photograph Brian sent is listed as '1959 - Hut 85 in Jan'

Ivor Browne N4202452 from 1961, says "I have just been reminded by former Bridgnorth recruit, Ambrose Glackin, that it will soon be 50 years since we passed through the portals of Bridgnorth for basic training in February 1961. It seems like only yesterday, or did it happen to someone else that I don't recognise in the mirror anymore. We would love to hear from anyone from Hut 319 or the squadron - see my photos submitted earlier. Ever consider a reunion you guys??"
 
Also see Ivor's other memories.

Phil Williams F4262974 from 1961, says "I was 17, never been outside Wales before. At Bridgnorth, after the initial shouting and general abuse, found myself billeted with a bunch of jocks and geordies. Likewise these lads had never been out of their habitat either. It took a week or more before we could converse properly - hilarious.
I also remember pinching coal from everywhere to stop from freezing, god, what with that and R+I camp, I can't remember ever being so cold. Our D.I's were tough but fair as I remember, except for one Irish Corporal, who used to throw all our mail into the mud and make us fish for letters.
After training, I went on leave, prior to trade training, my dad didn't recognise me when I walked in. The training had turned me into the fittest I'd been in my life and boy was I smart. I went in on a 3 year stint, by the time I left Bridgnorth, I'd signed for 9 years, so I must have loved the life lol. A great bunch of blokes and everyone pulling together, a great experience, which I miss to this day. I'm in contact with quite a few of the old erks, lifelong friends. Thanks Bridgnorth."

Don Williams 4242779 from 1958, says they were "Good times. Enjoyed the runs (cross country and mountaineering had been my sports)"

Mike Perkins 4078400 from 1951, says he was "an only child revered by his parents never went further than Clacton and then pitched into RAF Bridgnorth for an 8 week experience of a lifetime, wonderful passing out parade, very moving and as fresh is my mind as 60 years ago."

Vernon Potger 4171066 from 1955, says he was "probably the only recruit with a Ceylonese background, at that time. A tough but wonderful introduction to five years of nostalgic Service in the Royal Air Force. Friendships made at that ime, were unfortunately brief. Re-newed contact appreciated."

Terry Pettitt 5059059 from 1958, says "I was in Flt 32, D Sqdn, hut 258. Our drill instructor was Cpl Widdowson and he slept in the room at the end of our hut, sometimes coming in late and practicing his guitar.
Looking back although we didn't appreciate it at the time we had some good laughs especially at the cpl's remarks such as tick tock man for swinging the wrong arm. Our stay there was from late March to early June extended due to Easter and Whitsun leave.
My initial memory of Bridgnorth was arriving at the railway station which ironically I now see quite often as our eldest daughter and family live just outside the town.
The only name I can remember from our flight was John Lowther who came from Lancaster.
While at Bridgnorth I was diagnosed with flat feet and did all the square bashing in shoes and was given an excused boots chit which naturally caused a lot of teasing as the tv comedy the Army Game with excused boots Bisley was popular at the time."
 
The photographs Terry sent are listed as '1958 - Hut 258, 32 Flt' and '1958 - 32 Flt 'D' Sqd'

Switch Hilton 2743741 from 1955, says the "site lists Cpl Reames in year 1957, but he was my DI in 1955. I have photo of the squadron including Cpl Reames which is not on this site. I am still in contact with Eric French who served at the same time."
 
The photograph Switch sent is listed as '1955 - 14 Flt, 'D' Sqd'

Oliver Scott 2426445 from 1949, says "I remember a fight with my mate called Smith who spilt crisps around my bed and wouldn't clean them up. Next morning on parade we were good friends again with swollen face and black eyes, needless to say we had had a good night in town.
Never seems to be any others square bashing at this time. I have never seen any other messages from the period March to June 1949.
The only names I remember are DI's Tom Guy and Cpl Frewin. My young nephews destroyed my group photo. Great times really."

Edwin Roberts 3145283 from 1955, says he can "remember camping in the Welsh hills in snow in home made tent."

David Barber 3153731 from 1958, says he can "remember the square bashing and the bull especially the cross country runs and the gas chamber training when I knoocked nyself out jumping off the wall then entered the gas chamber - didn't know where the hell I was for several minutes.
Sgt Wilson wasn't such a bad chap after all!.
Posted to Hereford for trade training and lost contact with Dave Cutts 3153732 for a year or so until I bumped into him at Cambridge rail station in 1960 just before demob. Please get in touch."

Stuart Paterson 5056929 from 1958, says that "Flt Sgt Dark was NCO in charge of our flight in January 1958, humane man, can't remember him ever shouting, even at the worst recruit. Coldest place I had lived in, constant search for coke for pot bellied stoves.
With flu rampant, I got the camp's only case of German Measles. Positive memories of time spent at Bridgnorth."

Arthur Lanceley 5019595 from 1956, has "memories of the open air swimming pool situated along the Wolverhampton Road, which we attended during the summer of 1956.
Experiences in the gas chamber which I found rather frightening!
Does anybody remember a Cpl Morton? One of the more obnoxious drill instructors."

David 'Chalky' White 4262310 from 1960-1961, says "I was in "B" sqn hut either 210 or 211. I have never been so cold as that January, 2 bags of coke per week for the two stoves to keep the billet warm. At the end of January flu arrived on the camp, a lot of recruits ended up in sick quarters, the coke ration was trebled after that it saved us stealing coke from the boiler house across the road at night to try and keep warm."

Bill Hallett 4237925 from 1958, says he did "Intensive practice in band - my embouchure has never been so good! Did a painting for the Seargeants' Mess! Reported AWOL after missing train back after 48 ..."

David Crocker 5042596 from 1957, says that he "spent most of my basic training being prepared for two events; the AOCs inspection and the imminent demise of some Air Marshall. Only the inspection happened whilst I was at Bridgnorth. For the inspection we spent much time cutting grass and painting stone objects. For the Air Marshall we did a lot of funeral drill. We were due to have gasmask training when the inspection was taking place but we never got it as the facility had been "bulled up". We were obviously expendable in the event of a gas attack."

Bryan Crane 3105270 from 1947, says "six of us from Padgate plus Scots. Cpl. was a right ****. Remember on short-cut to town there was as little shop, shopkeeper had a great knowledge of the town. A coffee shop in centre of 'Hightown'."

Stanley Howard 4131780 from 1953, remembers that "in that year there was a large intake of youngairmen. I recall our drill Sergeant was Sgt McGuire and Cpl Shepherd was D.I. I cannot remember many of the intake but there was a Scotsman by the name of Murphy and Robert Gore who went to Dumfries with me.
The 8 weeks basic training I enjoyed throughly and recall to this day, we ended up in Pool flight waiting for posting. I have a photograph of the picture taken outside Hut 84 and have searched for it on this site to no avail. I have lived in Australia for 41 years and I have found the website interesting and have brought back a lot of memories."
 
The photograph Stanley sent is listed as '1953 - Howard Flt'

Phil Wherry 4248210 from 1959, says "I was in hut 181. Can't find any info on the hut or the names of those who were there when I was from Jan 8th 1959 to 1962. Would be grateful for info."

Wilson Lendrum F4273413 from 1962, says that "my memories of RAF Bridgnorth are as vivid today as they were in 1962.
I served out most of my training as a member of the Station band, and I was present at all the passing out parades including my own. I was a drummer during my time there and became lead drummer towards the end of my training - happy memories indeed."

George Munroe 4259162 from 1960, says that "it was the worst and best 6 weeks of my life. The worst being put into a hut and doused with tear gas. The best, the comraderie and the lifelong benefits of learned discipline. I could do it all over again. I now live in Canada and still do a bit of flying on a Cessna 172."

Walter Moscrop H4261425 from 1960, says he "enjoyed my time at Bridgnorth. Hectic to start with but the day we all went onto the parade square and won the drill efficiency trophy, very satisfying, probably could not do it now, seventy now."

Ian McDonald 4197672 from 1957, says he "served a total of 32 years in the RAF/RAAF around the world reaching senior rank, a little odd considering that after 2 weeks at Bridgnorth I wanted out!
Good website, well done."

Michael Jepson 5062279 from 1958, says he "played in the band (am back row far right in photo). Cpl Bell hated bandsmen. Once threatened to shove my euohonium in an unmentionable place. Met him later when he was "mine host" at a inn near EM Airport. Much more pleasant greeting!! Was in hut 24 A Flt. Mike Miles was senior man."

The views expressed on this page are those of the contributor and the opinions
expressed are not necessarily those of the web site and / or Mr Gwynne Chadwick.

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