RAF LICHFIELD ASSOCIATION REUNION 2001

On Friday afternoon 7th September 2001 the Association held their 11th Annual Reunion with Members attending Fradley Church to lay poppies on the graves of those who died whilst serving at RAF Lichfield. In the evening  at Fradley Village Hall  Members  were greeted by a Guard of Honour from the 1206 (Mercian) Air Training Corps Squadron. 125 Members attended  from all Lichfield Units and included Harry Woodhams from Australia (27 O.T.U Navigator Instructor 1943-4). Our thanks to Maureen Evans for providing the excellent buffet plus Francis and Estelle who looked after the bar. Entertainment was provided by Arthur Tipper on the organ and the Theatrical Group 'Us' who performed sketches and recitations with an RAF WW11 theme.  

On Saturday morning a Service was held in Lichfield Cathedral with lunch being taken at the RBL Club Alrewas and in the afternoon we visited the RAF Museum Cosford. Arrangements had been made to inspect the interior of the Avro Lincoln (Ex 51 M.U Lichfield) which was a daunting experience even for the 'younger' members due to its lack of headroom and high wing spar. However all those who went in managed to get out without injury and our thanks to the Museum Staff who looked after us.

A few survivors went to the Anchor Pub Streethay on Sunday morning - during the War this was a favourite 'watering hole' and social venue for RAF personnel due to its close proximity to the living accomodation and Trent Valley Station. A frame containing four photos showing different aspects of life at RAF Lichfield was presented and is now hanging in the Bar. The Association would like to express its thanks to the Landlord Les Dunning for allowing us to display the picture.