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WELCOME TO OUR NEWS ARCHIVE Rather than have to search through many pages to look back through our news, we have given it an archive page of it's own. We hope that you will enjoy reading through our successes since 2006, when we published our first web pages. Sunday 13th November, we attended the main Remembrance Sunday Service at the Cenotaph at Ridley Park in Blyth. Afterwards we all adjourned to enjoy the hospitality (and curry) at the HQ of 203 (Elswick) Battery, Royal Artillary. On Sunday 6th November, Once again we were supporting the Submariners Service of Remembrance, which was held at the Tiptoe Memorial, Market Square, Blyth. We assembled at 1030 to pay our tribute to those who have gone before. Everyone was welcome. Monday 31st October. Capt. Herb Carol and AV Michael Butler represented us at the funeral service for Alwyn Hastie-Murray of the Maritime Volunteer Service, which was held at the Cullercoats Methodist Chapel. Alwyn was given a Guard of Honour by the Standard Bearers of the Royal British Legion, the Royal Navy Association and local branches of the Submariners Association. Alwyn was an active volunteer with the Royal British Legion and a number of both local and national charities. Alwyn and Ros have supported the Submariners Associations for many years at their Annual Service of Remembrance in Blyth. We send our deepest sympathies and condolences to his wife Ros, and to his family and many friends. Saturday 22nd October. We joined 203 (Elswick) Battery RA for their Association Dinner on Five of us attended and a great evening was enjoyed by everyone. Our thanks to Major Derek Fairburn RA for entertaining us so well. 21st October is Trafalgar Day We were once again at Collingwoods Monument in Tynemouth, to celebrate the Great Man with a Toast to the Admiral at 12 noon. Our thanks to Capt Steve Healy of Newcastle Trinity House and North Tyneside Council for turning this into a Civic Event. The numbers attending are growing year on year. Saturday 3rd September We supported 'Bailey's Bike Ride' event at the home of Blyth Football Club in Newsham. We were there all afternoon with our stocks and stuff, but as usual for this part of the country at this time of year ... After a promising start, it rained!! Our two riders, John and Craig were the first to pass the finishing post with a time of around 40 minutes! Well done both of you! Pictured below, the riders are preparing to set off. We are still awaiting pictures of them crossing the finish line! We promise that we will post them as soon as they arrive ... if they ever arrive!! Sunday 21st August For the first time we were invited to bring a stall, our stocks, splat the rat and have a static dsplay at the Gloucester Lodge Farm Horse Show and Gymkhana. We arrived early and had everything set up well ahead of the allotted time of 08:30. The day was beautiful and sunny apart from a very slight shower early in the afternoon. Surprisingly, there was quite a lot of interest in our stall selling tombola, books and we managed to make a little extra cash which will go toward our ongoing requirements. Once again, we will publish further pictures on the Gallery pages as and when we receive them. Saturday 20th August 2011 We attended the 2nd Annual Astley Park Harvest Fair, and had a great time getting wet, as usual! One of the prize contenders for the stocks was 'Mr 007', a Sean Connery look-alike, who also opened the event. The weather was fine and sunny, although the attendee numbers were slightly down on last year due to a football match between two rival local teams, which was being watched live by many! In case anyone is interested, the final result was Newcastle 1 Sunderland 0. Pictures from the Astley Harvest Fair have now been posted in the Gallery. Boat Delivery to France and a Safety Warning 6-9 August 2011 The Old Man was invited to skipper a 46' TSDY, and take the owner and two of his friends from London to Honfleur in France. It should have been a nice, easy and straight forward 'jolly'. His account is well worth reading in the latest edition of Scuttlebutt (Vol 8 Issue 3) Monday 11th July The 'Old Man' was invited as a guest of Becca on her 1100 -1300 show, broadcast by Lionheart Radio from Alnwick. You were able to listen live or listen again by following this link. It was a good interview and friends tuned in from all over the world to listen. Saturday 9th July After Seaton Sluice Harbour Day, we have been invited to be guests at the Official Reception on board HMS Tyne at Northumbria Quay in North Shields. Our thanks to the Royal Navy for the invitation. Saturday 2nd July, 2011 Once again we supported the Blyth RNLI at their annual Open Day, by line handling and assisting passengers on and off the 'Celtic Warrior' as she took them on short cruises out through the piers. The weather was excellent, with glorious sunshine throughout the day. For some of the visitors it was an opporunity to see at close quarters, what happens when a 4x4 driver does not take the rising tide into account, and has to watch as their vehicle becomes trapped and flooded by the incoming sea! As the pick-up was almost under water, the windsreen wipers started! Recovery was by a tractor, and it's driver who had been alerted by the owner and skipper of Celtic Warrior. The RNLI were in attendance throughout. Wednesday 29th June, 2011 Many thanks to the staff at Silx Teen Bar in Blyth, for arranging for us to give our presentation to a number of young people from around the area. Our audience was extremely polite, and we answered a number of questions afterwards. It would appear that one or two of them might even consider joining us, which would be wonderful. Thanks also to the team from Northumberland County Council for their very supportive comments. Saturday 25th June, 2011 We are proud to have been invited to take part in the Armed Forces Day Parade through Blyth with members of 203 (Elswick) Battery RA and the Air Cadet Corps. Hundreds of people lined the streets applauding as we marched past them. The salute was taken by Vice Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, Captain Iain Moffat RN (Rtd). Afterwards we all adjourned to the Battery HQ, Royal Artillary to enjoy their famous curry lunch and to network with old and new friends. Wednesday, 22nd June 2011 Capt Herb Carol, LV Dot Allen and ABV Craig Allen accepted their invitations, and attended the Lord Lieutenant's Garden Party at Alnwick Castle in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and His Royal Highness, Prince Philip the Duke of Edinburgh. The day started with occasional torrential downpours, but fortunately the skies cleared just before the arrival of the Royal couple. During the day they met with some old friends, including Deputy Lieutenant Jean Bell, and made many new ones. The Royal duo chatted with members of all three Services and other invited guests. Many of the people who attended were extremely interested in our organisation, and came across to us for some information about us. Upon leaving, the Team were given a memento of the occasion, which included a limited edition lapel pin comprising the crossed flags of the United Kingdom and Northumberland. We would like to thank Her Grace, the Duchess of Northumberland for inviting us to take part in this great occasion at her home. These will now be incorporated within the uniforms of those who attended. We now have a page in the Gallery for the pictures taken on the day. Saturday 18th June was wet, and yet our attendance at the New Hartley Summer Fair was extremely popular, as members of the public queued up to take their turn in our Stocks. As many said, the rain was warm and they couldn't really get any wetter! After this event had finished, Herb and Lesley travelled to Bellingham to meet up with the Pennine Way Walk of Remembrance team, and camped out overnight with them. Saturday 4th June The Seaton Sluice Music Festival was a great success for those who were inside watching the performers. Outside, it was cool and showery, with a brass band playing beautiful music from the shelter of a marquee. It was a pity that so many people missed the outside entertainment. Rhursday 2nd June The Briardale Big Lunch was great fun, and we even managed to get members of Northumberland Fire & Rescue Service into the stocks! May 2011On Thursday 5th May, we gave a presentation to the North East Branch of the Nautical Institute at Trinity House Newcastle. There is now a possibility that a Morpeth Scout Group will be coming to us for training, and that we might start working with a young people's organistion from South Tyneside. We are very grateful to the Institute for inviting us to give a short talk after their AGM, which enabled the Institute Members present to find out about who we are and what we do. April 2011 CAMRA NOMINATED CHARITY Many thanks to Tyneside & Northumberland Branch of CAMRA, who selected us to be their charity for the Newcastle Beer Festival, which took place between Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th April in the Northumbria University Students Union. Our volunteers sold Tombola tickets and manned the cloakroom throughout, and on Sunday, 1st May, we were given a cheque donation for £1471.66p. We would like to thank you all for your support, which will enable us to continue providing the highest possible levels of training. 1/5/2011 DOCTOR PIT PARK, BEDLINGTON 27th April This event was a huge success, with th sun shining on the hundreds of parents and children enjoying themselves with numerous activities. Our Stocks were extremely popular, as was 'Blyth Venture', with young people queueing up for the opportunity to become 'Pirates' - even if only for a few moments! GOLF CHALLENGE Local Golfer Graym Railton took up the challenge on Friday 1st April, by completing 4 rounds of golf on 4 different courses in 4 different counties! He arrived back in North Shields feeling extremely tired but satisfied, after walking 23 miles, driving 162 miles, and playing over 4000 strokes! Thanks Graym for your fundraising efforts and support, which is very much appreciated. 5/4/2011
February 2011 Monday 28th February saw the fundraising LADIES PAMPER EVENING held at the Briardale Community Training Centre. The event was sold out, with ladies attending from Tynemouth, Whitley Bay and North Shields and Morpeth as well as from around the Blyth area! Many thanks to Jenny Earle and her staff for organising the event, and of course to Jean Bell and the Briardale Team for their ongoing support. 1/3/2011
Herb accepting a cheque from Mrs Jenny Earle (R) and Mrs Jean Bell, the Deputy Lord Lieutenent of Northumberland, at the Briardale Community Training Centre in Blyth.
Friday 18th February 2011 Capt Carol, LSV Allen and LSV Turnbull attended a meeting at the Blyth Volunteer Lifeboat Station in support of the campaign to oppose the closure of Humber Coastguard Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC). The meeting was well attended by organisations representing the many organisations who 'go down to the sea in ships' and by the Leader and a Councillor from Northumberland County Council. We have pledged support for the campaign and have inserted links to the petition on our Facebook and Twitter pages. 19/2/2011 January 2011 On Monday 17th January, we held a dinner at the Briardale Community Training Centre, for our members and guests to celebrate ten successful years of the Marine Support & Training Service in Blyth. Amongst the guests were Mrs Jean Bell, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, Lt Cdr Charles Wood MBE RN, Inspector Trevor Oakley, Lynne and Chris Simpson and Shirley and Allan Anderson. We also had a special guest, Anders Allen being presented with a hammock which had bee made by MSTS Members and signed by everyone who attended the dinner. Grace and the Loyal Toast were delivered by Lt Cdr Wood, after which Capt. Herb Carol gave a presentation. 21/1/2011 December 2010 CONGRATULATIONS!!! We are pleased to announce the engagement of ABV Lance Allen, son of Mr & Mrs Allen, to Miss Susan Bell, the daughter of Mr & Mrs Bell on Thursday 23rd December 2010 27/12/2010 Lance and Susan have a son Anders, who was born at 1330 on Wednesday, 22nd December 2010, and weighs in at 8lbs 15oz. Just in time for Christmas. Our best wishes to all three of them. The first pictures can now be seen by following this link. 23/12/2010 GOOD NEWS for twin brothers Lance and John Allen who have been provisionally accepted, subject to final confirmation, to start their basic training at HMS Raleigh for entry into the Royal Fleet Auxilliary! They have been with us for the past three years, and have gained a number of transferrable skills which should stand them in good stead for their futures. Congratulations and well done to both of you! 18/12/2010 Saturday 11th December At 10:00 we had a private visit and tour of RFA Fort George whilst she was berthed at Northumbria Quay, North Shields. This was exceptionally useful to John and Lance Allen, as they are about to embark on their RFA training at HMS Raleigh in January. Our thanks to Lt Cdr Anthony Wyld RN for organising the event, to Capt James Murchie for granting permission, and to Andy and Chris for showing us around this unique vessel.
November 2010 Sunday 28th November Members of the Unit were shown around HMS Blyth on a private tour of the ship. Unfortunately, due to the extreme weather conditions, most were not able to get into Blyth from outlying ares. We look forward to seeing them all again next time she returns to her home town of Blyth. Sunday 28th November in the evening we should have joined the Blyth and Wansbeck Branch of the Submariners Association for their Christmas get-together at the Astley Arms in Seaton Sluice ... Unfortunately, due to the extreme weather conditions, this had to be postponed until a later date. Friday 26th November saw Capt Carol and LSV Mike Allen representing us by attending the Official Reception on board HMS Blyth, after receiving their invitation by kind permission of Lt CDR Des Donworth. Amongst those present was Cllr Marcia Bircham, the Chairman of Northumberland County Council. An enjoyable evening was had by all, finishing off with some local hospitality at Olivers Bar. Friday 19th November In the evening Capt Herb Carol and ABV Dave Tudor attended the Official Reception on board HMS Ark Royal, and had the pleasure of meeting Rear Admiral Martin Alabaster RN, who is Flag Officer Scotland, Northern England and Northern Ireland (FOSNNI) and Captain Jerry Kyd RN, the Captain of HMS Ark Royal. Follow this link to our Gallery page Friday 19th November We took our Heaving lines and 'Splat the Rat' to Atkinson House School in Seghill for their Christmas Fayre, and the students had a wonderful time trying to 'Splat'! Sunday 14th November We attended the Ridley Park Cenotaph for the main Service of Remembrance to commemorate those who have been killed in war. Pictures can be seen in our Gallery by following this link and scrolling down 15/11/10 Sunday 7th November was the Submariners Remembrance Service, which took place at the Tiptoe Memorial, Elfin Square by Blyth market place. We all assembled at 1030 to meet with former submariners who were trained and served from Blyth during WWII. Pictures can be seen in our Gallery by followingthis link 8/11/10 October 2010 Thursday 21st October was Trafalgar Day, and we met up at Collingwoods Monument in Tynemouth to toast the great man with a tot of rum at 12 noon. This year marks our sixth annual Toast since we inagurated it in 2005 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar. We sounded the 'Call' at 1200 and everyone raised a tot for a Toast to the Admiral. The event was a great success, and we thank the Mayor of North Tyneside, Linda Arkley, Captain Steve Healey, Mrs Jean Bell, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, Lt Col Simon Pritchard RM, Lt Cdr Charles Wood MBE RN, Lord Ridley KG GCVO TD and everyone else for their support. Thanks also to Wylam Brewery for supplying a special 'Collingwood Ale' a specially distlled Collingwood Rum, and 'Grog' for the occasion. If anyone has any photographs taken on the day, and they would like to share them, please forward them to enquiries@mstsblyth.org.uk so that we can include them in our Gallery pages? 3/11/2010 September 2010 Tuesday 21st September. We gave a well recieved talk and presentation to the Blyth Branch of the Northumberland and Durham Family History Society at the Constitutional Club in Croft Road Blyth. 29/8/2010
Saturday 11th September We held our Community Fun Day for 2010. We are no longer able to use the area around the Dun Cow Quay, as the local interest was not forthcoming in time! The event was opened by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, Mrs Jean Bell. Attractions included Animalgique, the Scouts Brew'n'Buns, face painting, and stalls for a range of community organisations. We would like to express our most sincere thanks to the showmen who brought along a 'bouncy slide' and a childrens ride, and the couple who brought along their Hot Food Van. Unfortunately, this years event coincided with a National Heritage weekend, and so our number of visitors was down on last year, and the local community groups were not able to raise as much as we had all hoped. We are now planning for next years event, hopefully taking up the entire quayside .12/8/2010 Tuesday 7th September Dot, Craig and Herb attended a 'Meet the Funders' event at Seaton Sliuce Community Centre, which had been organised by CVA Blyth Valley. They came away with a number of excellent ideas, which is why we now have included 'Donations' and 'Wish List' pages to this website. (See the links above) August 2010 Saturday 28th August We took our stocks and Splat the Rat to the Durban House Home in Blyth, to raise money for the residents 'Comfort Fund'. Thanks to Jackie the manager, they raised in the region of £500 for their cause. Saturday 21st August saw us taking part in the First Annual Astley Community Festival in Seaton Delaval. The Guest of Honour was Malcolm Macdonald, better known as 'Supermac' ... and we managed to persuade him to try out our stocks for size! (Link here) Sunday 8th August We attended the 'Jeeps and Jets' event at the Sunderland Aircraft Museum. Our display was set up next to the RAF Air-Sea Rescue helicopter. For some pictures, have a look at our Community page in the Gallery. July 2010 Saturday 31st July we took Blyth Venture, our Stocks and Splat the Rat to the Astor Court Care Home in East Cramlington, for a Fun Day for the residents as part of our involvement with local communities. Tuesday 20th July Capt Herb Carol and LSV Dave Turnbull attended the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in London after receiving an invitation from the Lord Chamberlain. They had been commended to the Lord Chamberlain by the Lord Lieutenant of Northumberland, Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland in recognition of our services to the community.24/7/2010 Thursday 15th July Capt Carol gave a talk and a presentation to the Rotary Club of Blyth 16/7/2010 Saturday 10th July We took part in the Seaton Sluice Harbour Day, which was organised to raise funds for the Seaton Sluice Scouts. As result, we raised our public profile with our now-famous Stocks, Splat the Rat and heaving lines. We had 'Blyth Venture' on display, and our new banner had it's first public airing. The weather was kind to us and the stocks held children, parents and grandparents, who were all either game for a laugh - or just wanted to cool down! 12/7/2010 Sunday 11th July Our Team became line handlers to make fast and slip the mooring warps for the vessels engaged in the Blyth RNLI Open Day, which were running 'Trips Around the Harbour' 12/7/2010 June 2010 On Saturday 19th June, Capt. Herb Carol represented us by attending an Official Reception on board HMS Severn. This warship is an Offshore Patrol Vessel and is the latest addition to the Fisheries Protection Squadron. Our sincere thanks to Lt Cdr Catherine Jordan and her crew for their hospitality. This was an opportunity to meet with old friends and make some new ones. Amongst the guests attending were the Chairman of North Tyneside Council and his 'chain gang', the Commanding Officer of HMS Calliope, not forgetting Lt Cdr Charles Wood MBE, and the Captain and crew of the Dutch minesweeper 'HMNLS Zeekerzee' which was moored downstream. As you can see from the picture, Herb had to be content with a glass of 'water' as he was driving home after the event! After listening to a wonderful recording of 'We Are Sailing' by the Band of HM Royal Marines, 'Colours' was called on a trumpet by a civilian student musician. Although most of the guests pretended not to notice at the time, he played 'Reveille' instead of 'Sunset'! Even so, the ceremony was as moving as ever, with everyone quietly paying their respects to the White Ensign being struck..21/6/2010 On Sunday 13th June we attended the Blyth Heritage Fair at Fort House (Roberts Battery), Old Hartley, Seaton Sluice, where we set up our stocks and heaving lines and sold some of our world-famous Grog at a two guinea a shot. Unfortunately, it rained on and off throughout the day. but the spirits of those attending were not dampened by the weather! Backworth Brass Band played in one marquee, and a young lady Northumbrian Piper played in the main tent. I am pleased to announce that by finishing time, the stall raising funds for the charity 'Help the Heroes' sold out completely! Others in attendance were, the RSPB, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Blyth Battery, Blyth Local History Society and the Northumberland Family History Society. All in all, a good day was had by all, and we look forward to the next event.14/6/2010 May 2010 Thanks to the Sunderland Trailer & Towing Centre, supplying us with our brand new trailer for 'Blyth Venture', we are now able to get back on the water after our old one became unfit for our continuing use.25/5/2010 Friday 30th April to Sunday 2nd May 2010 Once again we provided our services to the Scottish Garelochhead 2-Day Marches. On Saturday 1st May, Colonel Donald Ross of the Argyle & Sutherland Highlanders presented our 'Cadet Achievement Trophy' to Cadet Craig Allen. As he was off site assisting at the Rest Areas, the 'Blyth Trophy for Excellence' was presented upon his return to LS Michael Allen by our own Herb Carol. This year marked the 10th Anniversary of this event, and it was celebrated in style with a dinner on the Sunday evening, with the Team being represented by Capt. Herb Carol, LS Dave Turnbull and Cadet Craig Allen. Due to unfortunate circumstances and at very short notice, AB Dave Tudor and Cadet Craig Wilkinson carried the evening by waiting on tables - and as can only be expected of the Team, they did it extremely professionally! After the dinner, we were presented with a commendation for our "Outstanding effort and contribution to the Scottish Garelochhead Marches"! 4/5/2010 April 2010 We are in the news! Capt. Herb Carol, our CSO has been featured in the Northumberland Journal Extrain an article entitled, "Why I Love Northumberland". He apologises for the photograph which, he says, does him no favours! Follow the link above and see for yourself.22/4/2010 Scuttlebutt Volume 7 Issue 2 has been published, and Issue 3 is currently being written. If you do not already receive 'Scuttlebutt' and would like to, contact us through this link and we will add you to our mailing list. 6/4/2010 March 2010 Thursday March 25th 2010 Capt. Herb Carol attended a course on PR & Media at the Briardale Community Training Centre. It was organised by CVABVand facilitated by Mr Brian Bell of Be Brave Fundraising Consultancy Hopefully, we will now be able to make more effective use of available free publicity resources. We are pleased and proud to be able to include Newcastle Trinity House on our Links page, and look forward to developing a close working relationship with them. 23/3/2010 Sunday March 7th 2010 We went to Collingwood's Monument to watch the original cannon fire a salute at 1500, followed by a return salute from HMS Cumberland at 1530 as she left the Tyne to return to her base on the South coast. Saturday March 6th 2010 Our Team took their RYA Level 2 Powerboat practical training in Hartlepool, with Cheryl, Sam and Mark of Longscar Powerboating once again providing their excellent tuition. See our page in 'Gallery' for 'RYA Training' Friday 5th March 2010 We had a guided tour of Her Majesty's warship HMS Cumberland when she visited Northumbrian Quay at North Shields. Our thanks to Captain David Dutton RN OBE and our Petty Officer hosts for such an enjoyable event. See our page in 'Gallery' for HMS Cumberland January 2010 Friday 29th January 2010 Capt. Herb Carol and Capt. John Thomson represented us at a reception which was held on board the Assault Ship L15 HMS Bulwark during her visit to North Shields. Our thanks to Captain Gavin Pritchard OBE RN and his crew for their hospitality and making us feel so welcome, also to Lt Cdr Wood MBE, the Royal Navy Liaison Officer, for inviting us to visit this wonderful warship - the seventh warship to proudly bear the name of 'HMS Bulwark'. 30/1/2010 Weekend 9th & 10th January 2010 Six of our Members took their RYA Powerboat Level 2 theory and VHF Radio courses with Longscar Powerboating, who provided them with first class tuition in Seaton Carew. Unfortunately, the Powerboat Level 2 practical part has had to be postponed until late February or early March, due to severe icing on and around the slipways over the weekend they spent down there. The Team was accommodated at the Trinity Guest House in Seaton Carew over the weekend. 11/1/2010 On 3rd January 2010 we received our 27,000th 'hit' on this site December 2009 We would like to thank Chief Executive Martin Lawlor, and the Blyth Harbour Commissioners for inviting our C.S.O. to their annual Christmas Reception, which was held on board the RNYC club ship 'HY Tyne' on Tuesday, 15th December. Saturday,12th December 2009 Now that the steering cable on 'Blyth Venture' has been replaced, we went out for a training and exercise day. On our return the trailer collapsed, and we had to be quite inventive to carry out makeshift repairs to enable us to get back to base. We now need a new trailer, which will cost around £1000, so if any of our readers find that they have a bit of spare cash, all donations would be gratefully received.14/12/09 We have been requested to start up a new Branch in Scotland ... Further details will be published as soon as we have them. 9/12/09 November 2009 Sunday 8th November 2009 Once again we attended the Remembrance Day Service at the Ridley Park Cenotaph. The salute was taken by the Lord Lieutenant, Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland. Afterwards we enjoyed a curry and the hospitality of 203 (Elswick) Battery, Royal Artillery at their Blyth HQ. Sunday, 1st November 2009 Due to the driving rain, the Submariner's Remembrance Day Service took place in the church beside the Tiptoe Anchor Memorial. Again it was good to see so many of the veteran submariners in attendance. Lord Ridley, the Mayor of Blyth, representatives of Northumbria Police also attended, along with Alwyn and Ros from MVS Tyne Unit. Unfortunately, we were not able to welcome a contingent of serving submariners from HMNB Clyde, due to transportation problems. October 2009 Wednesday 21st October 2009 was Trafalgar Day. We met up at Collingwoods Memorial in the rain, and toasted Admiral the Lord Cuthbert Collingwood at noon with a tot of rum. We then went on to visit the Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade Watch House. Next year they will be holding a special Trafalgar Day service, which will finish at 1145, allowing everyone to be at the monument in time for the Collingwood Toast at 1200. (Pictures will be posted as soon as we have them) September 2009 Sunday 20th September 2009. The Unit went to Sunderland to pay a visit to HMS Ocean. Once again, our thanks to Captain Simon Kings RN and the ships company for making this visit so enjoyable ... Some photographs have been added to the Gallery without compromising the security of the vessel. During the afternoon we were instructed in 'Heart Start' techniques by a Special Operations Paramedic Trainer who came down from Scotland to present this course. On Saturday 19th September, during a MoB exercise, we lost steering on Blyth Venture when the engine failed to respond to the wheel! In true seamanship manner we disconnected the drive linkage and continued by using one man on the throttle whilst the other steered by moving the engine manually. This is what our training is all about! Friday 18th September 2009. Captains Herb Carol, MIoS and John Thomson represented us on board HMS Ocean during her visit to her 'home port' of Sunderland, by attending an evening reception. Our thanks to the Captain and crew for their hospitality. Their driver for the evening was Cdr. John Nattress. Saturday 5th September 2009 As the Old Sea Dog promised, there was less rain on the day than last year and the Annual MSTS Fun Day took take place as planned. We had 'Splat the Rat', 'Heaving into a Bucket' and of course the Stocks - where people threw soggy sponges at the 'victims' - especially at Cadet Craig Wilkinson, as it was his birthday! How many can say that they have had Happy Birthday sung to them by around a hundred people, whilst dodging wet sponges? Our thanks go to Lt. Mosley RN for her stint in the stocks, and of course the rest of her Team for putting on such a wonderful display. The Briardale Team did themselves proud, even though Jean Bell managed to break her wrist whilst chucking a bucket of water over our Head of Training & Development! Thanks also to Ian Grigg and HM Coastguard, the crew of the Blyth RNLI Inshore Lifeboat, and Northumbria Police for being involved and getting into the spirit of the day by doing silly things that they would not normally do! There are all the others who should also be thanked, for example, the Cat & Dog Shelter and Body Shop for their support. If your organisation has been missed out, please consider this as our thanks, otherwise we would have to fill the page with all of your names!. Unfortunately, the Lord Lieutenant, Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland was unable to attend, and so missed being a part of this successful fun event. August 2009 Saturday, 15th August Once again we went out for some on the water training on and in the River Blyth. It was Manuela's first time out, and after 4 hours of Man Overboard exercises, she thought that the session was absolutely fabulous, and is now thinking of joining us as a new member of the Team. Unfortunately, we didn't have a camera with us, as there would have been some wonderful action shots taken! We had to abandon our usual high-speed dash to the Fairway Buoy, as the Harbour Master informed us that the wind speed was 25 gusting 40kts. Safety always comes first! (16/8/09) Over the weekend of 1st/2nd August, we took to the water with 'Blyth Venture' and the Rubber Duck. Unfortunately, the only pictures available are those taken from the land. If anyone has any photographs of the Man Overboard exercises, we would love to be able to show them here - especially if they show the man in the red drysuit bouncing along the surface after stepping off Blyth Venture whilst she was going quite fast (we won't say exactly how fast because the Harbour Master might see this!!)2/8/09 July 2009 On Saturday 18th we spent the day exercising both in and on the water, gaining experience of floating, getting in and out of a rubber dinghy, and transferring people between boats. Valuable lessons were learned regarding why, if you find a group of you together in the water, it is vitally important to form a circle and stay together. This enables the accumulated body warmth to heat up the pool of water inside the circle which will help to keep you alive! This month we received grants via the Community Foundation, from the Adderstone Fund and the Prime Fund. These extremely generous donations have helped to ensure that each member of the Team has their own personal drysuit. The funding will also contribute towards the Team gaining their RYA Powerboat qualifications. Our heartfelt thanks go out to both providers. At some time during this month the ships bell which we were to have been donated, 'disappeared' when the Low Lights Tavern closed. Even after extensive enquiries, it seems that no-one knows anything about where it has gone! If it ever does turn up, our Cadets will be able to continue to enjoy polishing it up and keeping it shiny. On Monday 13th July, we were fortunate to be able to have a tour of HMS Blyth, as she was visiting Blyth. Our thanks go to her Commanding Officer, Lt.Cdr. Des Donworth and her Crew for their friendliness and hospitality, especially as the visit was arranged on our behalf at extremely short notice! On Sunday, 5th July we assisted the Blyth RNLI at their Open Day, by marshalling passengers and mooring and slipping the boats which were being used to raise funds by providing pleasure trips to the public. This was an excellent and enjoyable training opportunity for our Team. June 2009 Unfortunately, we were off the water for most of the month due to problems with props ... we had 'slightly bent' them, and had to wait for one to be repaired, and for a new one to be delivered. Garelochhead, May 2009 Once again, we did our bit for the Scottish Garelochhead 2-Day Marches by providing security for the duration of this prestigious tri-services event. which meant that we were able to free up personnel who were better occupied as Event Marshals and Monitors. Our members went out and assisted at Rest Area 2. We would like to link you in to the video, and upload it onto YouTube, but at the moment, we seem to be having a little difficulty ... any suggestions gratefully received! One of the highlights was having 'Reveille', played on a euphonium, for Colours! Our Ensign was Cadet Allen, and the Colours Bo'sun was Cadet Wilkinson. All the members of our Team were presented with SGM Medals by Capt. John Thomson, by way of thanking us for our professional approach to the event. Our Cadets were presented with trophies by Col. Donald Ross OBE, of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, to mark their outstanding achievements over the past year. EGM 2nd February 2009 This meeting was held so that we could make the MSTS open to adults as well as young people. The reason for the change was because the 'Definition of a Young Person' had been lowered from 28 to 18, due to a recent government change in policy. Christmas 2008 to date Throughout these months and whatever the weather, Members have been training and exercising on board 'Blyth Venture'. December 2008 We have now taken issue of our new wire beret badges. These were supplied by the Gold Wire Badge Company who have faithfully transferred our 'old-style' embroidered logo into a very impressive wire badge. Our thanks for their patience and help in carrying out that process. November 28th 2008 We had The Happy Cats, Marty Craggs, Les Dodd and Brian Duffy performing at a benefit evening for us at the Briardale Community Training Centre. Also appearing was an up-and-coming young singer, Gavin Mumby who started the evenings entertainment. At the half-way stage, the local singer/songwriter Mark Cocking sang some of his own work, and has been likened in style to David Bowie, and went down extremely well with the audience. The full Civic Party attended and thoroughly enjoyed the evening, as did everyone else. Herb Carol 'auctioned' a bottle of Famous Grouse Whiskey for £55-55p! We must also thank Jean Bell and the staff of the Briardale Community Training Centre for the use of their facilities. We raised just over £340 on the evening. Thank you all for your support November 9th 2008 The Blyth Remembrance Day Service took place at the Cenotaph, Ridley Park - We formed up at 1030 to remember the dead of all wars and conflicts, and afterwards enjoyed the hospitality of the TA at their barracks on Cowpen Road. 3rd November 2008 13 year-old Craig Wilkinson was welcomed into the Unit. He also has the honour of being the first to successfully complete his initial training period as a Cadet Candidate. Capt. Herb Carol presented him with his beret, badges and epaulettes. November 2nd 2008 Today we supported the Submariners at their Remembrance Day Service at the Submariner's Tiptoe Anchor Memorial in Blyth, to remember the service that the Submariners have given to this, their country. We formed an 'Honour to the Standards', and were joined by two serving members of the Royal Navy, an Army Cadet and two members of the Tyne Unit of the Maritime Volunteer Service. Lord Ridley was in attendance, along with the Civic Party from Blyth Valley. The Service was also attended by a contingent from the Blackpool and Fylde Submariners Association. Naturally, the hip flasks of rum were passed around those assembled. Photographs will be published as soon as possible. October 21st 2008 We toasted the memory of Admiral Lord Cuthbert Collingwood with rum at 12 noon, to coincide with the time that he fired the first shots of the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. We were joined by a number of people who 'just happened to be passing by' and shared a tot with them, we have arranged to meet again in a years time at the same place. September 6th 2008 Our Fun Day in Blyth on Saturday, 6th September, was a victim of the weather, as torrential rains soaked the area. Our sincere thanks go to Cllr. Kath Nisbet, the Deputy Mayor of Blyth Valley for braving the conditions so that she could name our boat "Blyth Venture". The Briardale Community and Training Centre, Blyth Junior Wardens and HM Coastguard also attended. Even though the weather was quite foul, we managed to drum up some entertainment, and an enjoyable time was had by all. July 22nd - 30th 2008 Our members walk Hadrian's Wall - there and back! They made it, and raised over £1000 - Well Done to the Team! June 2008 June was quite a busy month, as the planning for Walking the Wall was almost completed, along with sorting out the logistics for our Fun Day in September. On 30th June, as part of our ongoing programme of personal development (OPPD), we put our members through a First Aid course. Every one of our members is now qualified as an 'Appointed Person in First Aid', with their certificates valid for the next three years. Our thanks go to Gerry Hands of Priory Training for providing such an interesting course. May 2008 We went to the Garelochhead Tri-Services Training Base, and provided security for the Scottish Garelochhead Two-Day Marches. We also held 'Colours' at 0700 and 1900 each day. Photographs should be posted in our Photo Album soon. As this is an annual event, we are looking forward to being invited again for the event in 2009. March 2008 On Monday, 31st. we held our AGM, which was well attended by, not only ourselves, but also by representatives of the local community and Global Maritime. Our primary concerns were when we would take delivery of our training vessels and our intention to register with the Charities Commission. It was agreed that we register within the next 2-3 months. As part of our ongoing training and development programme, we hope that we will be visiting Northumbria Police Marine Training Centre and one or more of the Svitzer Tugs. January 2008 This month sees us installing dado trunking in our HQ to provide networking and power to our PC's. We also took part in a Fire & Safety Training course in Seaton Sluice and in Seaton Delaval, which has been organised through Blyth Valley CVS and funded by the Fairshare Programme December 2007 We would like to thank all of our supporters and sponsors wish each and every one of them a very Happy Christmas and a wonderful 2008. Erika Bowker was presented with a certificate to thank her for her ongoing support. Although she lives in Hebden Bridge, she has maintained an interest in our activities and receives regular updates on our activities. November 2007 In either August or September next year, three of our members, John, Lance and Chris are 'Walking the Wall', from one end of Hadrian's Wall to the other ... and back!! At the 'other end' they will be joined by 14 year old Cadet Craig for the return journey. Their aim is to complete this epic 'stroll' within 10 days, and are currently looking for individual and corporate sponsorship to cover the event. The proceeds will go towards funding members through their RYA qualifications. With the MSTS we provide all our training at no cost to the individual , and so raise sufficient for our needs by (almost) any means available. Should you or your company wish to make a pledge towards this event, please click here. After the Submariners Remembrance Day Service, our members presented the Submariners Association with a framed picture depicting a wartime submarine with a view of the River Blyth. Once again, it was good to see members of MVS Tyne in attendance at the service. October 2007 Members are currently 'square bashing' in preparation for the Remembrance Day Parades. These will take place in Blyth on Sunday 4th November for the Submariners at the Market Square, and on the 11th at the Cenotaph adjacent to Ridley Park. September 2007 Due to our outstanding success with Bounty, SV Estelle from Finland has been brought into Blyth for some routine maintenance work and crew training, which is to be provided by the MSTS ... our reputation is spreading! By the way, we are now on the world-wide news from the News Post Leader - click here to see Bounty and Blyth together . One of the young people from the Brairdale Community Centre assisted with the on-board catering, and is now sailing with the Bounty for the full 18-month voyage to the Pitcairn Islands. All the members of the MSTS wish him the best of fortune. Thanks to the support and encouragement of the Port of Blyth and Blyth Valley Borough Council, the Port of Tyne Authority, Newcastle City Council, the Bounty will be coming to visit both ports. (Click here to have a look at the 'Bounty' website.) We brought her into Blyth, where she stayed on the 4th & 5th, and left on the 6th for Newcastle, where she remained open to the public before leaving for Southampton on the 8th. For quite a large ship, she has had many 'bit parts' in the film industry. She is currently raising money for the'Cutty Sark Appeal', and is well worth a visit. August 2007 If all goes well, by the end of the year we should have our own vessels. A multinational shipping company is due to donate two cutters to us as they are 'surplus to requirements'. We have put a bid in to A4A to cover the costs of sailing them around the coast, and have our fingers well and truly crossed that we will receive the funding. July 2007 This month sees the start of chart-work, where members will learn about how to work out the mass movements of the sea using Tidal Stream Charts, parallel rules, dividers, and plotters. Eventually, everyone will be able to navigate their way around a chart, and pilot their way around the coast. It really isn't a 'Black Art' where things happen by magic! A few simple rules and a lot of practice is all it takes. June 2007 This is the month when we take part in, and support the RNLI in Blyth on their Open Day. We have taken our stocks out of storage, given them a good going over ready for Saturday 30th June. We will also have a Tombola and a Grog Stall. The Grog is made from a recipe dating back to the days when Nelson and Collingwood whupped Old Bonie's fleet at Trafalgar. The price per tot has been set at 2 guineas. May 2007 Two of our members took part in a Child Protection Course, so that we will have experienced people in charge of the new Cadet Section. During May, our training has concentrated on radio-telephony (RT) procedures - from making simple, routine calls through Securite, Pan Pan and Mayday - including Mayday Relay. In the early stages the exercises were quite fun, especially when everyone had to get used to using radios with a built-in 1-second delay between push-to-talk (PTT) and actually transmitting the message. It is surprising how much can be said - and lost - during that critical first second of the broadcast! April 2007 This month saw our AGM. David Turnbull has been duly elected as Hon Secretary and Michael Allen as Hon Treasurer, and they will hold office until 2010, with Herb Carol remaining as Head of Unit. It has been decided that we cancel our dedicated telephone line, as that will save us a substantial amount each year. You will still be able to contact us by e-mail enquiries@mstsblyth.org.uk or by phoning 0786 603 9753 We have been asked to start a Cadet's Section, and all of our members are currently undergoing CRB checks so that we can progress this exciting new development, and bring in some 'young blood' to train to be leaders in the future. Our new uniforms should be ready for us within the next few weeks, and suppliers are currently being sought for breast and cap badges. Then the Drill starts!! We will be attending both the Submariner's and the Blyth Remembrance Day Services in November, ready for Parade. January 2007 This year has started well, and we welcome aboard all our new members. We hope that we will soon be able to announce that we soon have a new ropework specialist, who is keen to pass on his skills and experience. We could still use the services of anyone who wishes to run sessions on:- Marine electronics; Radar; Diesel and petrol engines; Logistics; Navigation: Shanties; or any subject which might be of general interest. If you are interested, please give us a call, or click on the e-mail link November is the month for remembering those who gave their lives in wars and conflicts, and those who were left behind. 4/11/06 - 6/11/06 Training course on "Fuel Injection Systems" attended by members. 5/11/06 Submariners' Remembrance Day Service took place at the Submariners' Memorial in Blyth. It was attended by Capt Herb Carol on our behalf. The Submariners are always cheerful, and a toast was made "To absent friends" prior to the service. As well as Lord Ridley and the Blyth Valley Civic dignitaries, it was good to see members of Tyne Unit MVS attending. 10/11/06 Merchant Navy Remembrance Day at the Stag Memorial in North Shields 12/11/06 The main Remembrance Day Parade at the Cenotaph in Blyth October 2006 'Celebrating Success' Conference at the SageGateshead, Over 160 delegates attended, representing the Voluntary Sector throughout the North East. The keynote speakers were Fiona Ellis (Northern Rock Foundation, Director), Simon Hebditch (Capacity Builders, Chief Executive), Rosie Chapman (Charity Commission, Head of Policy & Effectiveness), Sally Hiscock (Governance Hub, Implementation Manager) and Kate Welch (Acumen Trust, Chief Executive and OneNorthEast Board member).
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