Page 203 - RAPTC 23/24

201
A superb display of Highland Dancing
completed his Regular Colour Service is now employed as QM at 105 Regt RA, a Reserve Unit based in Redford Bks, Edinburgh. We wish Billy, Lisa and their family the very best in their second career and know they will be regular attendees at the Gatherings.
Getting a suitable hotel so close to Edinburgh and during the summer months is never easy, especially when trying to keep costs down and a huge thanks must go to the Pitbauchlie Hotel for looking after us so well. So much so we have already booked ahead for the next two years.
A massive thanks must go to Capt (MAA) Kel Noteyoung who is our Branch Secretary. As well as the normal tasks of Branch Secretary, Kel is the current SO3 PD at 51 Bde (a very busy job in its own
Icannot believe that another year has passed so quickly and I find myself being prompted by Dave Smith to produce a
few opening remarks for this year’s MBS notes. So here goes. The NE Branch continues to be vibrant, with strong and loyal support from so many Association members. This is without doubt down to the many hours of work put in by our indefatigable Secretary Dave Smith. I can only marvel at the time and attention to detail that he pours over every aspect of Branch business. I know that he is greatly assisted by Caz as well as Dave and Cathy Warburton. I wish to express my thanks and gratitude for all that they do.
Our Branch Reunion weekend was a huge success again with another increase in attendance from last year. It is becoming quite the party to be at. So many have commented to me on how much fun and enjoyment was had by all who attended. This is great feedback and sets the challenge for 2025. The hotel staff have also grown to enjoy being on duty for our
Lt Col (SMAA) Sean Semple RAPTC briefs the Scottish Branch Gathering
right). However, the manner in which Kel applies himself to the Secretary role is incredible and very much appreciated by the Branch.
Finally, a heartfelt thank-you to those who attended the SB Gathering. Clearly, without people making the effort to attend, there is no event – so once again thanks and please try and come and bring your guests - they’ll have a great time!
NORTH EAST BRANCH
Chair’s Notes
Maj (Retd) G Chapman
gathering and again have commented that our event has quickly become one of their favourite weekend events to work. They enjoy our class and style, but most of all they enjoy Dave Smith’s meticulous admin. I must mention at this point that usual tradition at the end of the evening was upheld as Caz Smith and my wife Shelley were the last to leave the bar!
My final amusing comment that I must share with you all occurred on Sunday lunchtime. After bidding a fond farewell to everyone, we usual suspects strolled around the corner to a new bar called The Hooting Owl which is a Gin Distillery and bar run by a military veteran and well worth a visit. As we were sitting enjoying a drink and debriefing the weekend, we noticed a full suit of shining armour standing in the corner. Dave Smith joked that if he took off his skin, that is what he would look like underneath.
Stay Safe and Stay Strong and see you next year.
SMAA presents Maj (Retd) Billy Young with his RAPTC Officers’ Mess presentation
Planning has already commenced for the 2025 Gathering to be held again at the Pitbauchlie House Hotel over the weekend 6 / 7 June and we hope to see as many there as possible. On closing, should you wish to purchase any RAPTC Tartan, please do get in touch with any of the Scottish Branch Committee or Maj (Retd) Stewart McNeish.
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Mr D Smith
I am delighted to report that the North East Branch membership continues to grow and flourish with several new members joining our ever expanding Branch family. Branch events and gatherings are always well supported and I have it on good authority that the North East Branch Annual Reunion is setting the benchmark for both quantity and quality. This is only possible through the hard work and diligence of the Committee and our band of willing helpers and of course our lovely ladies.
Since taking up the position of Branch Chairman last year, Geoff Chapman has brought his customary enthusiasm, eagerness and professionalism to the post and has added tremendous value to the committee. His willingness to actively contribute to the work of the Branch has been of immense help to me as Secretary and it is reassuring to me that he brings much more to the role than being just a