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Maj (Retd) Geoff Chapman, Branch Chairman, with SSgt (SSI) Chris Mayhew, WO1 (SMI) Chris Walsh, SSgt (SSI) Kane Mortimer and SSgt (SSI) Paul Douglas
donated to this worthy cause so close to his heart. Unfortunately, Tony has had to ease back from his football coaching role as the need for care has become more demanding on his time. After obtaining a new and improved wheelchair for Sally last year with assistance from the Association, he has recently acquired an adapted van which makes transportation much easier and less demanding on him and Sally physically.
Sadly, our eldest Branch member, George Bleasby, passed away peacefully just a few months after celebrating his 100th birthday. George will long be remembered by those who witnessed his incredible club swinging routine at the 2023 Reunion Dinner. He was an incredible man and I have submitted a piece to mark his passing in the ‘Beyond the Gym’ section of this MBS. Through my contact with George over the years I have become close friends with his family, in particular his 5 daughters and one son, and through this will remain in contact with them.
Jean Ions strength of character has enabled her to make a remarkable recovery from her serious accident when she fractured her femur. The permanent metalwork in her leg now entitles her to Honorary Membership of our Branch Joint Replacement Society. Jean has recently moved into assisted living accommodation to be near her daughter Karen and remains determined to continue attending our annual Branch Reunion gatherings.
I maintain regular contact with some of our Branch members and widows who appreciate and benefit from the occasional telephone calls, emails and a visit where appropriate. A small gesture of a phone call or visit is so important and can mean so much to someone who has lost a loved one or simply in need of some
Brian Pyle Gelder Trophy Winner 2023
figurehead. I am grateful too for Geoff’s ‘welfare’ calls to me during my far too frequent hospital stays in the last 12 months. The role of Branch Secretary continues to be time consuming and challenging, and it is invaluable to have my great reliable friend Dave Warburton supporting and assisting me (when he’s not away on cruises) not only as Branch Treasurer, but also in the role of Assistant Secretary. I am also grateful to Brian Pyle for being the custodian of our Branch Standard and his readiness to represent the Branch on those occasions requiring it. On the few occasions when Brian is unavailable, another stalwart of the Branch, Pete Harburn, kindly deputises for him in his usual efficient and impeccable manner.
The North East Branch was well represented as always at the RAPTC Association Service of Commemoration at the National Memorial Arboretum on 16th September 2023. In total around 150 members and families attended the event which also provided the opportunity to present the Annual RAPTC Awards and it was a pleasure to see our very own Brian Pyle being deservedly awarded the Gelder Trophy for his contribution in enhancing the prestige of the RAPTC Association.
There was the usual strong gathering of members at the Branch Remembrance Memorial Service in York on Sunday 13th November. In all 21 members attended the Service after which a wreath was laid on behalf of the Branch in respect of all those that made the ultimate sacrifice. Following the service members retired to our regular haunt the Maltings Pub to partake of refreshments and enjoy each other’s good company.
There was a strong gathering of retired Branch members at the King’s Coronation Dinner held in Fox Gym on Friday 17th November with around 240 serving and retired members in attendance. Fox Gym was resplendent and made a fantastic setting for such a historic and memorable occasion for the Corps Association.
A small number of regular members gathered informally in York on Saturday 9th December for a bimble around the shops and Christmas markets before meeting in the Maltings Pub to enjoy some hearty festive refreshments and seasonal quality time together with good friends. Geoff and Shelley Chapman organised a fun lucky dip to add to what was a pleasant and most enjoyable day.
Our merry band of NE Branch casual golfers continued to get together to play occasionally throughout the year. These golf days have proved popular despite relatively small numbers being involved. The regular players Tom Mulligan, Dicky Parker, Alec Porter and Brian Pyle are members at various clubs which enables them to get golf days organised without too much expense.
Tony Mee continues to provide care for his lovely wife Sally who is so sadly suffering from Huntington’s Disease. Tony shows the most incredible strength, positivity and fortitude in managing these most difficult personal circumstances. Tony managed to take Sally on holiday to Mexico last year but admits that this may be the last opportunity to do so because of Sally’s condition. He raises funds for the Huntington’s Disease Association (HDA) whenever he can and continues to donate proceeds from the sale of his Football Coaching Book ‘Through the Thirds’ to the many thousands of pounds he has already