Monthly Minutes August 2025
Date: Tuesday, 5th August 2025.
Present:
29 members were present at the meeting.
The Branch Chair opened the meeting at 2000hrs
Apologies for absence:
Ken Barney, Jim O’Connell, Danny Hart, Wally Thorburn, Ian Whiteside, Neil Platt, Kev Hughes, Derek Hesketh, Joe Pettigrew, Stan Fortune, Chris Baines, Eddie Jones, Roy Bevan, Ozzy.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting:
The minutes of the previous meeting were proposed by Bobby Hamblett and seconded by Waddy.
Matters Arising:
N/A.
Visitors/new members:
N/A.
The Chairs' Report:
Bruce opened the meeting with one minute’s silence in memory of those we have lost. Bruce provided a very heartwarming account of both Alan Coppell and Alann Smedley’s friendship before, during and after their service with 4 PARA. Sadly, both friends passed within 10 days of each other, and our condolences from the branch, families, and friends go out to both Alan's families.
Bruce went on to praise both lads for being the utmost professionals. Whenever they went on exercise or in barracks, they exemplified the highest standards of the Regiment, whether serving with Regular or Reserve Battalions.
Alan Coppel’s funeral is on 8th August, at Thornton Crematorium at 14.15.
Alan Smedley’s funeral is on 21st August, Anfield Crematorium at 14.45.
Welfare report:
Bruce contacted several members of the branch over the last few weeks and provided an update. Members sent their best wishes to all of those who are unable to get to the branch meetings.
It is important to remember that if members require additional support, it is available through the branch, where we can contact the Regimental Welfare Team, who are trained to deal with a variety of issues and cases that are more complex.
There is a revised Support Our Paras welfare process for veterans, which was highlighted in the PRAHQ newsletter.
Secretary's Report:
A reminder that the new Airborne Forces Statue will be unveiled on 27th June, 2026.
The statue will be in Abbey Field, adjacent to 16 Air Assault Brigade’s front gate at Merville Barracks. All Associations are encouraged to attend this event. The branch will consider arranging transport to support those who wish to attend.
VJ Day 80th Anniversary:
Will take place on Friday, 15th August, at 10.00 am, held at the Far East Prisoners Of War memorial, located at the Pier Head (between ferry terminal and Captain Walker RN statue). Our branch member, Cooky, has agreed to attend with our branch standard.
27th August – Central Lancs Branches are holding a memorial service to remember those who were killed at the Warrenpoint (Narrow Water) massacre in 1979. Two brothers of one of the lads who was killed will be attending – Pleasington Cemetery,
Blessington,
BB2 5LE.
Please contact the Secretary for timings (TBC)
Veterans’ smoker on 27th September at Crawford Hall at 1400. Another great opportunity for members to catch up with other local Regimental Associations.
Liverpool Scottish Association is holding their Annual Dinner on 17th October 2025. They have once again offered Liverpool PRA a table for 10 members. We have filled a table of Ten. However, if other members wish to attend, please contact the branch secretary.
Altcar Training Camp is now available for us to book the venue (log cabins next to area 6) for a barbecue. Brian W will contact the Commandant to see if we can book the venue for a barbecue over the summer.
Pensions update for those applying for their TA pensions.
Once your training days have been received from Glasgow via the government website https://submit-a-data-protectionrequest.service.mod.uk/start they will be training days only, over the period you served. MOD pay Offices only keep pay slips for a period of 7 years after discharge; therefore, pay scales are no longer available to them. When you apply for your training days following the link above, in the drop-down box which asks for proof of service, write in the free text box that you require your P-File. This will then be directed to the Army Personnel Centre (APC), which will send you your file, which may have details of the pay scales you were on during the period of service.
Treasurer's Report:
2026 Diaries are now available from the Airborne shop, and the minimum order is 20.
Events sub-committee:
N/A.
Christmas Dinner details will follow during the next meetings.
AOB:
Tom Barney and Elaine Overend will be carrying out a recce at the Hard Day’s Night Hotel with a view to sourcing prices, etc, for the Christmas Party.
He also proposed a trip to the Airborne Museum in Colchester and consideration for an overnight stay due to the travel distance and time. Branch members supported this proposal, and Tom will explore some options over the coming months.
Pete Smedley has retired from his role within the Wirral Branch. Members congratulated and thanked Pete for his service to his branch and the Regimental Association.
2 x Trustees are required to ensure our Association conforms to Charity Commission policy and procedures. Names have been proposed and confirmed at the next branch meeting.
Mick Coleman provided an update regarding the laying of our old standard at St Nic’s church.
We will have to wait until a new priest takes post, before a decision can be made by the Parish Council.
A Coy, 4 PARA ties are still available via Brian Blanchard.
Close Meeting:
The Branch Chair closed the meeting at 21:00 hours.
Date of next meeting Tuesday 2 nd September 2025 at 20.00hrs
AVCC Sports And Social Club,
Lancing Drive
Aintree
Brian Welsh, Branch Secretary, Liverpool PRA Approved:
Please check out the events list on the website for details of Regimental and Local events near you: www.theparachuteregimentalassociation.com
Monthly Minutes July 2025
Date: Tuesday 1st July 2025
Present: 21 members were present at the meeting.
The Branch Chair opened the meeting at 2000hrs
Apologies for absence:
Ken Barney, Pete Smedley, Jim O’Connell, Joe Pettigrew, Danny Hart, Wally Thorburn, Billy Young, Stan fortune, Ian Whiteside, Neil Platt, Paul Hennessey, Billy Melia, Kev Hughes, Alfie Brennan, Elaine Overend, Tom McCormick, Pete O’Brien, Derek Hesketh, Kev Riley, Phil Macauley, Brian Jenkins, Allan Macdonald.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting: The minutes of the previous meeting were proposed by Mick Coleman and seconded by Tony Woods
Matters Arising:
N/A
Visitors/new members:
N/A
Chairs Report:
Bruce opened the meeting with a one-minute silence in memory of those we have lost.
Bruce made note of the decision made by Merseyside Police at short notice to move the start point and parade route on Armed Forces Day.
This decision was communicated extremely poorly to the veterans and Regimental Associations, and left many people at Saint Nicholas Church while the parade was underway in another location.
Welfare report:
Bruce contacted 17 members of the branch over the last few weeks and provided an update.
Members sent their best wishes to all those who are unable to attend the branch meetings.
It is essential to remember that if members require additional support, it is available through the branch, where we can contact the Regimental Welfare Team, who are trained to deal with a variety of complex issues and cases. There is a revised welfare process for veterans, which was posted to all members via WhatsApp and highlighted in the PRAHQ newsletter.
Secretary's Report:
A reminder that the new Airborne Forces Statue will be unveiled on June 27th, 2026. The statue will be in Abbey Field, adjacent to 16 Air Assault Brigade’s front gate at Merville Barracks.
All Associations are encouraged to attend this event. The branch will consider arranging transport to support those who wish to attend.
The Liverpool Scottish Association are holding their Annual Dinner on 17th October 2025. They have once again offered Liverpool PRA a table for 10 members.
Names so far are:
Frank Boyle x 2
Bruce Cargill
Cooky
Bob Hamblett
Pete O’Brien
Kev Hughes
Ian Whiteside
Steve Gray
Altcar Training Camp is now available for us to book the venue (log cabins next to area 6) for a barbecue. Brian W will contact the Commandant to see if we can book the venue for a barbecue over the summer.
Mick Coleman is still endeavouring to work with St Nics to see if they will support the laying of our old branch standard in the church. Talks are ongoing.
Pensions update for those applying for their TA pensions.
Once your training days have been received from Glasgow via the government website https://submit-a-data-protectionrequest.service.mod.uk/start they will be training days ONLY over the period you served.
MOD pay Offices only keep pay slips for a period of 7 years after discharge; therefore, pay scales are no longer available to them. When you apply for your training days following the link above, in the drop-down box that asks for proof of service, write in the free text box that you require your P-File, you will then be directed to the Army Personnel Centre (APC), who will send you your file, which may have details of the pay scales you were on during the period of your service.
Treasurers Report:
The branch accounts have been returned after peer review and will now be submitted to the Charities Commission.
2026 Diaries are now available from the Airborne shop, the minimum order is for 20.
For those members yet to pay subs for 2025, the payment details are below.
Bank details are:
Sort Code: 23-05-80
Account Number: 44716631
Reference: Your Name Subs 2025
We have 54 members currently paid up for 2026.
Thanks to all those who continue to support the branch.
Events sub-committee:
N/A
Christmas Dinner details will follow during the next meetings
AOB:
Tony Woods provided an update regarding Wynn Davies and condolences regarding the passing of his wife, Betty. Tony spoke to Wynn at Betty's funeral, and he passed his best wishes to the branch, and said that he thinks of the lads all the while.
Tom Barney will be carrying out a recce at the Hard Day’s Night Hotel with a view to sourcing prices, etc, for the Christmas function. He also proposed a trip to the Airborne Museum in Colchester and consideration for an overnight stay due to the travel distance and time. Branch members supported this proposal, and Tom will explore some options over the coming months.
Bobby Hamblett stated that Councillor Paul Hennesey is an Armed Forces Champion and arranges a breakfast club in West Lancs on the last Saturday of each month. Bobby has attended and highly recommends the venue and the work Paul is doing for the armed forces community.
For more details, contact Paul Hennessey directly.
Ormskirk Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club.
The venue is Ormskirk Rugby Club between 10.00 – 12.00
Syd Smith has an old 6-berth canvas tent available, if anybody would like it, free of charge. Just arrange your pick-up arrangements.
Mick Coleman mentioned the poor attendance from the branch for Armed Forces Day, and that we should be making more of an effort to attend such events.
Mick also provided information on a charity event – Military vs Cancer.
This is a field gun pull event, starting from John O’Groats to Land's End.
However, as the event passes through the Northwest (Chorley to Wigan), there will be a 2-3 mile pull per team. Organisers are inviting five veterans, families and friends to join the gun pull. The day available for our members to take part is 2nd October 2025.
If anyone is interested, please ring Tomo on 07506998599.
Close Meeting:
The Branch Chair closed the meeting at 2100hrs
The date of the next meeting is Tuesday, 5th August 2025 at 20.00hrs
AVCC Sports And Social Club,
Lancing Drive
Aintree
Liverpool
Merseryside
Brian Welsh, Branch Secretary Liverpool PRA
Please check out the events list on the website for details of Regimental and Local events near you: www.theparachuteregimentalassociation.com
Monthly Minutes June 2025
Date: Tuesday, 3rd June 2025.
Present:
25 members were present at the meeting.
The Branch Chair opened the meeting at 2000hrs
Apologies for absence:
Ken Barney, Pete Smedley, Jim O’Connell, Joe Pettigrew, Danny Hart, Wally Thorburn, Billy Young, Stan fortune, Ian Whiteside, Neil Platt, Paul Hennessey, Billy Melia.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting:
The minutes of the previous meeting were proposed by Pete O’brien and seconded by Waddy.
Matters Arising:
N/A.
Visitors/new members:
N/A.
Chairs Report:
Bruce opened the meeting with one minute’s silence and informed members that this meeting would be preceded by the 2025 Liverpool PRA AGM.
A reminder to members of the importance of Armed Forces Day, and to all do our best to attend the parade on Liverpool on 28th June.
Welfare report:
In Ken's absence, Bruce provided the branch with an update on the following members:
Tom McCormick, Alan Coppell, Joe Pettigrew, Colin Campbell, Chris Baines, and Alan Smedley, among many others.
It is important to remember that if members require additional support, it is available through the branch, where we can contact the Regimental Welfare Team, who are trained to deal with a variety of issues, and for cases that are more complex. There is a revised welfare process for veterans, which was posted to all members via WhatsApp and highlighted in the PRAHQ newsletter.
Tom Barney thanked the branch for their messages of support and for contacting him and Ken while they've been recovering.
Secretary's Report:
There are several events planned for Armed Forces Day.
1. Armed Forces Day:
a. Raising the Armed Forces Flag, at the Town Hall, 23rd June.
b. Church Service at St Nics.
i. Parade of veterans at 10.45hrs from outside St Nic's to the Albert Dock.
ii. Drinks afterwards at Hardy's bar from 11.30.
The new Airborne Forces Statue will be unveiled on June 27th, 2026.
The statue will be in Abbey Field, adjacent to 16 Air Assault Brigade’s front gate at Merville Barracks.
All Associations are encouraged to attend this event.
CESRA has changed its name to Armed Forces Community Council Merseyside (AFCCM).
This group represents Regimental Associations across Merseyside and provides a uniformed voice for veterans. Both the Branch Secretary and Treasurer have attended the last two meetings and Terms of Reference, and actions are developing well at afccmerseyside@gmail.com
Remember to register with your GP. To enable potential prioritisation for treatment where clinically appropriate:
In line with the Armed Forces Covenant, individuals with the correct coding may, subject to clinical need, be prioritised for treatment, particularly for conditions related to service. Ensure you provide your GP with the correct SNOMED (Systemised Nomenclature of Medicine) code for Military Veteran is - 753651000000107
The Liverpool Scottish Association are holding their Annual Dinner on 17th October 2025.
They have once again offered Liverpool PRA a table for 10 members.
The names put forward so far are:
Frank Boyle x 2.
Bruce Cargill.
Cooky.
Bob Hamblett.
Pete O’Brien.
Kev Hughes.
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Branch Secretary will contact Roy Boardman to confirm a table for 10.
Please contact the Secretary if you wish to attend.
Treasurers Report:
For those members yet to pay their subs for 2025, the payment details are below.
Bank details are:
Sort Code: 23-05-80
Account Number: 44716631
Ref: Your Name Subs 2025
To date, 12 members have not yet paid, and the Treasurer is contacting each person directly.
Events subcommittee:
N/A.
Christmas Dinner details will follow during the next meetings.
Future Events:
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​AOB:
Roy Bevan kindly brought in an array of books and memorabilia from Joe Harkon’s collection.
All proceeds will go to the Branch.
Steve Miley proposed that members should bring their old books to branch meetings for members to swap and share.
Mick Coleman is continuing discussions with St Nics Church about the laying of our standard
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Brian Welsh will bring the old standard into the next meeting.
Close Meeting:
The Branch Chair closed the meeting at 21:00 hrs
The date of the next meeting is Tuesday, 1st July 2025 at 20.00hrs
AVCC Sports and Social Club,
Lancing Drive
Aintree
Liverpool
Merseyside
Brian Welsh, Branch Secretary
Liverpool PRA Approved: Branch
Please check out the events list on the website for details of Regimental and Local events near you: www.theparachuteregimentalassociation.com
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The Parachute Regimental Association
Liverpool Branch
May 2025 Minutes.
Annual General Meeting The Parachute Regimental Association, Liverpool Branch
President: -
President Tom Barney Mobile 07708603938
Registered Charity Number 1125765
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Chairman: Bruce Cargill 0151 474 2479 cargills1947@hotmail.co.uk
Treasurer: Brian Blanchard Tel: 0151 520 1661 brianblanchard@btinternet.com​
Secretary: Brian Welsh Mobile 0787 1901 206 brianwelsh4@icloud.com
Date:
Tuesday, 6th May 2025
Present:
35 members were present at the meeting.
The Branch Chair opened the meeting at 2000hrs
Apologies for absence:
Ken Barney, Pete Smedley, Phil McCauley, Jim O’Connell, Joe Pettigrew, Kev Hughes, Danny Hart, Wally Thorburn, Billy Young, Stan fortune, Derek Hesketh, Ian Whiteside, Neil Platt, Elaine Overend, Frank Boyle.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting:
The minutes of the previous meeting were proposed by Bob Hamblett and seconded by Dave Woodray.
Matters Arising:
N/A
Visitors/New members:
Gerry – 1 PARA C Coy 1955-59
Keith – Junior PARA 1965 and 2 PARA 1967-74
Chair's Report:
Bruce opened the meeting with one minute’s silence and informed members that this meeting would be preceded by the 2025 Liverpool PRA AGM.
Bruce explained the Committees and informed members that the current Committee members were nominated to remain in post for the 2025/26 year.
Chair – Bruce Cargill,
Secretary – Brian Welsh,
Treasurer – Brian Blanchard
There were no additional nominations for the above posts, and members voted unanimously to support the retention of the current Committee members.
Vacant posts available for nomination are:
Vice Chair.
This leaves a vacant post as Vice Chair. Anybody wishing to take up this post should contact the Branch Secretary in the first instance.
Welfare report:
In Kens absence, Bruce provided the branch with an update of the following members: Tom McCormick, Alan Coppell, Joe Pettigrew, Colin Campbell, Chris Baines and Alan Smedley.
Additionally, there was a request to see if anybody could contact John Bresnahan to see how he is getting on after his back injury.
It is important to remember that if members require additional support, it is available through the branch, where we can contact the Regimental Welfare Team, who are trained to deal with a variety of issues and cases that are more complex.
There is a revised welfare process for veterans, which was posted to all members via WhatsApp and highlighted in the April PRAHQ newsletter.
Secretary's Report:
Several branch members attended the funeral of Sgt George McAlpine at Landican Cemetery, which was welcomed by his family and friends.
The 4 Para reunion (4 PARA Club) took place in Leeds on 26th April. Several members of the branch attended, and the reunion is growing in numbers each year.
The membership of the 4 PARA club is a one-off payment of £10.00. Those wishing to join should contact Les Ratcliffe at lesratcliffe1951@gmail.com or 07711853103 to arrange payment and receive a pin badge.
TA/Reservists pensions update – The hearing dates for the MOD’s appeal against the judgement of August 2024 have been set for 4/5 December 2025, to be heard in Edinburgh. A reminder to those wishing to claim a pension to contact the MOD via a data protection request, requesting the number of days they attended each year during their service. to request their man training days over the period they served, as soon as possible.
VE Celebration will include: 8th May 10.00-18.00 – Western Approaches will be open with a range of events and entrance costs for children will be £1.00
18.30 - ‘Let the Nations Bells Ring Loud’ bells at both Cathedrals will ring as part of the ‘together we chime;
Civic buildings will be illuminated with Red, White, & Blue.
21.15 – 21.30 – Beacons will be lit at Exchange Flags. Liverpool PRA Standard will attend.
ALL Week
The Central Library will be displaying WWII pictures, including Arnhem, Normandy, Italy, Burma and Dunkirk.
There are a number of events planned for the Armed Forces Day.
1. Armed Forces Day:
a. Raising the Armed Forces Flag, Town Hall, 23rd June
b. Church Service at St Nics
i. Parade of veterans at 1045 from St Nics to Albert Dock
ii. Drinks afterwards at Lady of Mann from 11.30
The new Airborne Forces Statue will be unveiled on June 27th, 2026. The statue will be located in Abbey Field, adjacent to 16 Air Assault Brigade’s front gate at Merville Barracks. All Associations are encouraged to attend this event.
WO & SNCO Dinner Club: 1 PARA mess (SFSG) St Athan. RSM of 1 PARA is trying to boost numbers – further details can be found on the attached May 2025 Regimental Newsletter.
Discussions were reopened regarding the laying up of the branch’s old standard. Mick Coleman will contact St Nics to explore what actions need to be taken for us to continue with this request.
Treasurers Report:
For those members yet to pay subs for 2025, the payment details are below.
Bank details are: Sort Code: 23-05-80
Account Number: 44716631
Reference: Your Name Subs 2025
To date, 44 have paid subs, and we have 56 members on the books.
The Treasurer has visited the Lady of Mann pub, Dale Street, for details around Remembrance Sunday.
They stated that if we wish to provide our own catering then this is ok.
Events subcommittee:
N/A Christmas Dinner details will follow during the next meetings.
Future events
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AOB:
A piper played during George McAlpine’s funeral, and if we would like to request him in the future, he would make himself available. His number is held by Brian Welsh (Branch Secretary), and his business card is held by Pete Smedley.
Tom Barney proposed an impromptu barbecue on Thurstaston for next Saturday, and those wishing to attend to contact him.
Mick Coleman opened up discussions around the blessing of the memorial stone at St John's Gardens. This will be explored further, and we will try to sort out a Padre.
Branch Treasures has confirmed we have several PRA business cards to hand out when people enquire about joining.
The Branch Chair has carved a memorial plaque for Joe Harkon to place in Harkon Wood, Altcar, when we can confirm a date for a barbecue at Altcar.
Close Meeting:
The Branch Chair closed the meeting at 21:00 hrs
Date of next meeting Tuesday, 3rd June 2025 at 20.00hrs AVCC Sports And Social Club, Lancing Drive.
Brian Welsh, Branch Secretary
Liverpool PRA Approved:
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The Parachute Regimental Association
Liverpool Branch
April 2025 Minutes.
President: -
President Tom Barney Mobile 07708603938
Registered Charity Number 1125765
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Chairman: Bruce Cargill 0151 474 2479 cargills1947@hotmail.co.uk
Treasurer: Brian Blanchard Tel: 0151 520 1661 brianblanchard@btinternet.com​
Secretary: Brian Welsh Mobile 0787 1901 206 brianwelsh4@icloud.com
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Present:
24 members were present at the meeting.
The Branch Chair opened the meeting at 2000hrs
Apologies for absence:
Ken Barney, Brian Blanchard, Pete Smedley, Phil McCauley, Jim O’Connell, Joe Pettigrew, Kev Hughes, Danny Hart, Wally Thorburn, Billy Young, Stan fortune, Derek Hesketh, Ian Whiteside, Neil Platt, Elaine Overend, Frank Boyle, Flo McAlister.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting:
The minutes of the previous meeting were proposed by Waddy and seconded by Dave Woodray.
Matters Arising:
N/A
Visitors/new members:
N/A
Chairs Report:
AGM will be held at the next meeting on 6th May. Those wishing to put themselves forward for any committee positions must inform the Branch Secretary before the AGM.
The smoker held at Liverpool OTC on 22nd March, it was well attended by a range of Regimental Associations and 3 attended from our branch. There is a plan, which is yet to be confirmed, to hold another smoker at the same venue for VE day.
The Chair stated that proposals for visits or events should be brought up at the branch meetings with clear plans, costs and venues by the proposer. This can then be considered by the branch along with any financial support and agreed as appropriate.
Mick Coleman proposed that we hold a barbecue at Altcar for branch members, families and friends. This would have to be in June as the camp will be booked solid for two months of cadet annual camps. Brian Welsh to contact the commandant to seek availability.
Welfare report:
In Ken's absence, Bruce provided the branch with an update on the following members: Alan Coppell, Joe Pettigrew, Colin Campbell, Chris Baines and Alan Smedley.
It is important to remember that if members require additional support, it is available through the branch, where we can contact the Regimental Welfare Team, who are trained to deal with a variety of issues and cases that are more complex.
The welfare process for veterans has been revised, it was posted to all members via WhatsApp and also highlighted in the April PRAHQ newsletter.
Secretary's Report:
The BAFC 2026 function will be held in Liverpool. For those who wish to become members and to read more about what the club does, follow this link: https://www.bafc.org.uk / The British Airborne Forces Club (BAFC) is solely for the Airborne Brotherhood. If you’ve not passed P Coy and your Basic Parachute Course, you are not eligible to join this club. All applicants are verified, and their membership process makes us exclusive.
The funeral of Sgt George McAlpine, who served 22 years in The Parachute Regiment, will be held on 25th April at 14.00 at Landican Cemetery, Arrowe Park Road, Woodchurch, Wirral, Merseyside, CH49 5LW.
A request has been made to our branch asking if we can provide a standard bearer and coffin drape, which was agreed, and Steve Cook will look at his availability as standard bearer.
The 4 Para reunion will be held in Leeds on 26th April. Tommy Barney is going by car and has two seats available, at £10 each to assist with fuel. Those wishing to jump in Tommy's car should contact him directly.
The membership cost of the 4 PARA Club is a one-off payment of £10.00.
The meal will cost £25.00, and those wishing to attend should contact Les Ratcliffe at lesratcliffe1951@gmail.com or 07711853103 to arrange payment.
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Although it was discussed in the March branch meeting, members voted for the use of the branch credit card to pay for refreshments at events on the day. As a pre-payment for food, etc, is not a cost-effective use of branch funds. The branch unanimously voted in favour of this revised process of payment.
Brian Blanchard still has several A Coy, 4 PARA ties for £15.00, please contact Brian directly if you wish to purchase one.
TA/Reservists pensions update – The hearing dates for the MOD’s appeal against the judgment of August 2024 have been set for 4/5 December 2025, to be heard in Edinburgh.
Bob Hamblett requested a copy of his training days from the MOD. This has been difficult to obtain as it seems the civil service is dragging its heels and not being very cooperative. Bobby will provide an update of his progress and urged people who have submitted a request for a pension to request their man training days over the period they served, as soon as possible.
There are several events planned for the VE celebrations this year.
1. Liverpool City Council event for VE day: VE80
a. Massed Bands Beating Retreat – 4th May, Castle Street, from 14.30
b. Discounted bar at O’Brien’s & Hardy’s on Matthew Street from 14.30 for all Veterans and Associations.
2. Beacon Lighting: VE80
a. 8th May, Exchange Flags, at 21.30 – All Regimental Association Standards are required to attend, if possible, as this will be a national event shown on TV.
3. Armed Forces Day:
a. Raising the Armed Forces Flag, Town Hall, 23rd June
4. Main VE80 event in Southport - Southport Associations will be hoping for support from other Regimental Associations to parade. Date and timings to be confirmed.
Treasurers Report:
The branch would like to remind those members who are yet to pay their club subscription for 2025 that the payment details are below.
Bank details are: Sort Code: 23-05-80
Account Number: 44716631
Reference: Your name Subs 2025,
So far, only 36 have paid subs, and we have 56 members on the books.
Events sub-committee:
N/A
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AOB:
Ozzy provided a further update on his health regarding prostate cancer. Ozzy had no symptoms but had a check anyway. He found that his levels were high and made it clear to all members that their families and friends need to get a prostate test, as it's better to be safe than sorry.
Close Meeting:
The Branch Chair closed the meeting at 2100hrs.
The next meeting is Tuesday, 6th May 2025 at 20.00hrs.
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AVCC Sports and Social Club,
Lancing Drive.
Aintree
Liverpool
Merseyside L10 8LN
Brian Welsh, Branch Secretary Liverpool PRA
Please check out the events list on the website for details of Regimental and Local events near you: www.theparachuteregimentalassociation.com
1. PRAHQ monthly newsletter April 2025 including.
2. How dogs help – PRA
3. Regimental Commemoration Dinner, Tickets
4. Sea King Down
5. St Michael Flyer
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The Parachute Regimental Association
Liverpool Branch
March 2025 Minutes.
President: -
President Tom Barney Mobile 07708603938
Registered Charity Number 1125765
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Chairman: Bruce Cargill 0151 474 2479 cargills1947@hotmail.co.uk
Treasurer: Brian Blanchard Tel: 0151 520 1661 brianblanchard@btinternet.com​
Secretary: Brian Welsh Mobile 0787 1901 206 brianwelsh4@icloud.com
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Present:
24 members were present at the meeting.
The Branch Chair opened the meeting at 2000hrs
Apologies for absence:
Ken Barney, Tom Barney, Pete Smedley, Phil McCauley, Jim O’Connell, Joe Pettigrew, Kev Hughes, Tony Woods, Tom McCormick, Danny Hart, Wally Thorburn, Billy Young, Stan fortune, Derek Hesketh, Ian Whiteside, Neil Platt, Billy Melia, Paul Hennessey Elaine Overend.
Minutes of the Previous Meeting:
Waddy proposed the minutes of the previous meeting and seconded them to Dave Woodray.
Matters Arising:
N/A
Visitors/new members:
N/A
Chairs Report:
AGM will be held at the next meeting on 1st April. Those wishing to put themselves forward for any of the committee positions must inform the Branch Secretary before the AGM.
There was a sad farewell from the branch for Joe Harkon, with an excellent turnout for Joe's funeral, with over 50 members attending either at the church or drinking afterwards. A special thanks to our standard bearer and those standard bearers from other regiments who attended. Lt Col Dave Macauley also provided an excellent presentation of Joe's military career.
Welfare report:
In Ken's absence, Bruce provided the branch with an update of the following members: Alan Coppell, Joe Pettigrew, Tom McCormick, and Alan Smedley.
It is important to remember that if members require additional support, it is available through the branch, where we can contact the Regimental Welfare Team, who are trained to deal with a variety of issues and cases that are more complex. There is a revised welfare process for veterans, which was posted to all members via WhatsApp.
Secretary's Report:
Joe Harkon’s daughter Freya, has sent a card to the branch, and the branch secretary will also draft a letter and send it to WO2 Billy Jones for all the help and support he has provided to support Joe's family and Liverpool PRA.
WO2 Billy Jones has confirmed the smoker will be held at Liverpool OTC on 22nd March at 1400hrs. Curry will be £ 3.00 per person and the bar only accepts cash.
The date for the walk is planned for Friday, 7th March at Altcar Training Camp, and those attending should arrive at the Guardroom no later than 12.15. The walk is planned to start at 12.30 from the visitor’s car park.
Those wishing to attend should provide Roy Bevan with the following details: E-mail, Mobile Number, Car make and registration, and Personal Identification. This will allow the guardroom to verify those attending with the information Roy provides them with.
Roy’s contact details are:
roybevan@hotmail.co.uk
Mobile: 07566240366
There are several events planned for the VE celebrations this year.
1. Liverpool City Council event for VE day: VE80
a. Beating the Retreat – 4th May timings. To be confirmed
2. Beacon Lighting: VE80
a. 8th May timings to be confirmed
3. Armed Forces Day:
a. Raising the Armed Forces Flag, Town Hall, 23rd June
4. Main VE80 event in Southport - Southport Associations will be looking for support from other Regimental Associations to parade. Date and timings to be confirmed.
The Council of Ex-Servicemen & Regimental Associations (CESRA) are relaunching the association. The inaugural meeting was at 18.00 on 4th March, where the Liverpool PRA branch secretary attended. The meeting will be bi-monthly, where Liverpool PRA will attend (request from Branch Secretary to confirm who would like to have this reference and report back to the branch).
Treasurers Report:
For those members yet to pay subs for 2025, the payment details are below.
Bank details are: Sort Code: 23-05-80
Account Number: 44716631
Reference: Your name Subs 2025
To date, 36 have paid subs, and we have 56 members on the books. It was agreed that rather than pre-book food or other refreshments at events we plan, we will pay for such refreshments via our branch debit card on the day. This will prevent any future outlay of funds paying for event refreshments where low attendance occurs. It was agreed that members who are unable to attend branch meetings or events but wish to be kept appraised of all of our activities should be offered a satellite membership where payment of subs will be £10.00. These members will be added to the branch WhatsApp group. The admin of the group is currently Frank Boyle. This income would also support the maintenance and update of our standard and coffin drapes.
Events sub-committee.
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AOB:
From Regional Secretary Mike Farrington:
Cpl Green, who was a Grenadier Guardsman, joined B Company 4 PARA in 1980, sadly passed last Saturday. The branch expresses its condolences to his family and friends.
Regional meeting will be held on 15th March at Leyland. Meeting starts at 10.00. Ian McKelvey brought the ties to the branch, and they are now available at £15.00 each.
Ozzy provided an update on his health regarding prostate cancer. Ozzy has no symptoms but had a check anyway, however, he found that his levels were high and urged all members and their family and friends to get a prostate test.
Close Meeting:
The Branch Chair closed the meeting at 2100hrs.​
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Date of next meeting Tuesday 1 1st April 2025 at 20.00hrs
AVCC Sports And Social Club, Lancing Drive.
Brian Welsh Branch Secretary Liverpool PRA Approved:
Please check out the events list on the website for details of Regimental and Local events near you: www.theparachuteregimentalassociation.com
Attached:
1. PRAHQ monthly newsletter March 2025
2. The National Army Museum – The story of the soldier magazine
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The Parachute Regimental Association
Liverpool Branch
February 2025 Minutes.
Minutes Not Supplied
President: -
President Tom Barney Mobile 07708603938
Registered Charity Number 1125765
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Chairman: Bruce Cargill 0151 474 2479 cargills1947@hotmail.co.uk
Treasurer: Brian Blanchard Tel: 0151 520 1661 brianblanchard@btinternet.com​
Secretary: Brian Welsh Mobile 0787 1901 206 brianwelsh4@icloud.com
Date: Tuesday 4th February 2025
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MINUTES NOT SUPPLIED
The Parachute Regimental Association
Liverpool Branch
January 2025 Minutes.
President: -
President Tom Barney Mobile 07708603938
Registered Charity Number 1125765
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Chairman: Bruce Cargill 0151 474 2479 cargills1947@hotmail.co.uk
Treasurer: Brian Blanchard Tel: 0151 520 1661 brianblanchard@btinternet.com​
Secretary: Brian Welsh Mobile 0787 1901 206 brianwelsh4@icloud.com
Date: Tuesday 7th January 2025
Present:
43 members were present at the meeting.
The Branch Chair opened the meeting at 2000hrs
Minutes of the Previous Meeting:
The minutes of the previous meeting were proposed by Waddy and seconded by Brian Jenkins.
Visitors/new members:
None.
The subject of Business cards was discussed, with the idea that members could hand them out to prospective members with branch details ie, the branch venue and contact details. The Branch Secretary said he would review this idea and provide costs to the branch.
Several members will attend, and Steve Cook will provide standard bearer duties for the funeral.
The walk is planned to start at 12.30 from the visitor’s car park.
Those wishing to attend should provide Roy Bevan with the following details:
Car make, registration and Personal Identification.
This will allow the guardroom to verify those attending with the information Roy provides them with.
Roy’s contact details are: roybevan@hotmail.co.uk Mob: 07566240366
Future events
Event Date: Location/time Comment
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A discussion was held regarding the need for the branch to consider how we continue to raise funds for the branch.
This will be discussed in more detail over the next few branch meetings with proposals welcomed from members.
1 PARA reunion Blackpool, March 20-24
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2 PARA reunion Blackpool, March 14-16
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3 PARA reunion Blackpool, March 28-30
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4 PARA reunion Leeds, April 26-28
AOB Tony Woods has been visiting Barry Bruce in the Hospital and speaks often to Barry’s daughter, Nicola, who appreciates that our branch visited and contacted Barry whilst in hospital.
Steve Cook, on behalf of the branch, thanked Elaine Overend for her tireless commitment to the case of fraud and Sean Pullen's guilty pleas for poppy fraud.
Closed Meeting:
The branch Chair closed the meeting at 2100hrs
Date of next meeting is Tuesday 4th February 2025 at 20.00hrs
AVCC Sports And Social Club,
Lancing Drive.
Brian Welsh Branch Secretary Liverpool PRA Approved:
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