Hi Richard,

Interesting article from George Latham but it then raised a question from my Squadie Bill Hartland. We both knew George but neither of us could remember if he was in our squad or not. So Richard if it is possible would you be able to contact George and give him my email address? Would love to hear from him.

My best regards to all of those who are still on this site.

Cheers from Down Under,

Eric.

John Borrington

A very good write up by one of John's son's, who detailed much about John I wasn't aware of, desite having served with him.....

As soon as I boarded HMS Lion, I was summoned to the Bridge, where John was waiting with my fellow Solo Clart, Ginge Feather. John then told us both that I was to be the Principal Clarinet! For those who wouldn't know, it was a procedure that the longest serving was to lead and others follow. Ginge bless his little soul, didn't make any protest as I pointed out to John that seniority counted as to who did what and how, but John was resolute and that was that.

The events of that Pier Head jump resulted in Dodger Long telephoning me and asking would I like to go to HMS Terror for 30 months on a married accompanied draft. I served with Dodger in the Home Fleet and HMS Drake.

I have emailed others of Johns address and the Christian name of Johns widow. His Son Mark has noted that.

Dear Richard ,

69 years ago today, 20 new recruits arrived in snowy Deal. Sadly only 3 of us (of the ones who got rated) are left. Mike Tellick, Ray Grant and myself.

Many cherished memories of 18 years service . With no hesitation I would do the same again. Proud to be associated with the great Band Service Family �

Regards to all

Barry

Farewell John Borrington. He and I were involved in cricket and hockey for the Band Service and the Corps Teams from time to time and although having not served together I suppose we were friends from time to time. He took over my Band at Manadon when I left for the Royal Academy of Music, but the Band there didnt last much longer and were posted to other Bands in the area. I regret I cannot recall his wife's name or their address so if anyone can help perhaps you could let me have them. Many thanks Michael.

[Editor] Yes I shall forward to you later.

Very sorry to hear of the passing of John Borrington. I had quite a good time with him on my Pier Head Junp to HMS Lion, with a cruise around South America.

R.I.P. John.

Bill.

Hi Richard, Bizzarre and B----dy frustrating. Keep warm over there.

Bill,glad you can still remember the lingo of the far away Far east. My Amah spent months teaching me to say Happy Birthday but i can't remember it now. Those were the days.Just how much are the present day people in the Band Service missing with no Sea time or foreign posting.But I suppose a Degree is for them a far better outcome.

Anyway todays bands are really something to be proud of. I look forward to ths years MFof M which i watch throughYoutube.

A question was asked several months ago re,how many RMB/Xs are left. Can't be many but Bill and I will carry us through as long as we can !!!!!!!!!!!

Cheers to you all,

Eric.

Hi All, good to hear from Eric my fellow squadie and old shipmate????

I had wondered why you Eric, had been so quiet, so good to see that you have managed to sort things out.

Meanwhile, the Community Nurses are caring for me and probably because of them I have put on some weight??

Belated Kujng hei Fatt Choy, to those who have served in the Far East, where they enjoy sicteen days of Happy Chinese New Year, this being the Year of the Snake.

Anyone interested, my American grandkids start University in May 2025.

Hi Richard,

Several weeks ago our Government in their collective wisdom decided to restrict those under 16 years of age the use of some aspects of the internet that I just don't understand. As a consequence I have been unable to connect with you and those members who do still do connect. Unfortunately not many.

However a relative of my Better Half, Jan, has now connected me to you through Japan or the Netherlands or the USA.

So now I am able to wish you all the Very Best for 2025 and for those who are attending the Mountbatten Festival of Music, Enjoy you lucky people.

Cheers from here Down Under in 39 Degrees C.

Eric.

[Editor] Thanks Eric but this all seems a tad bizzare?

Sorry Guys ! its me again. Managed to get some tickets for the Albert Hall, and son Simon is willing to drive to the smoke (bless him). Will look forward to an entertaining evening on the first night so will be there with the King I presume ! Michael.

Have just received news that the local Brass Band in Newbury who usually organize a coach to the the RAH ( and kindly offer me a seat ) cant afford to do it this year so regret I shall not be attending the Massed Bands Concert. I suppose it will be available in some form on the PC ( what a pain ! having to look at a small screen to check out what the Band Service is up these days.) Does anyone know if it might be put on a CD or broadcast on TV at any time ? Happy New Year to you Richard, and Ive just enjoyed a small tot of Brandy to TOAST YOU ALL .................Michael.