Chairman's Chat
6905 Peter Phillips

News is a little thin this time round although I suppose, as good Englishmen, we can always talk about the weather. Actually it is relevant – for the first time in my 20+ years on this committee we had to cancel a committee meeting (February) because of the weather.  Hopefully we won’t have that problem for the AGM in May although, as you will see from the Notice, we do have a couple of problem positions to fill. I think I have filled the Events Sec. position, which I mentioned in my last chat, but, Barry, our Hon Sec, still finds himself called away by the UN from time to time. He finds he is not able to perform his duties with us to his own satisfaction and, whilst he is a very young 73, he also feels it is perhaps time for someone younger to take over.

So who is up for it? The position of Hon Sec is the lynch-pin of the Association so cannot be taken light-heartedly. Nevertheless, there are a number of people out there who are prepared to give us the benefit of their wisdom and advice from time to time. Perhaps now is the time to step up to the mark.

In similar vein, I will put you on notice that in a couple of years time – say AGM 2011 - you will need to find a new  Chairman . Frankly, I was of a mind to retire this year, however I have committed to see the Memorial through to completion, but thereafter……….

On that happy note I look forward to seeing you all at the AGM.

Note from the Hon Sec
5662 Barry Henson

I now have 72 names and email addresses on the Email Information Group.  Just a reminder that unless you have actually asked me to include you in the group, you are not included. This condition ensures that we have up-to-date addresses.

I have not received anything new from the UK State Pension people and have not heard whether any of those who have appealed, have had any success.  

It is with regret that I have to advise that I will be standing down as your Hon Sec at this year’s AGM.  When I took on the job three years ago, I was not aware that my circumstances would change and that I would be spending so much time away. My absences have meant that I have not been able to carry out my duties in the way that I would wish to.

Bertie, Jeannie and Chairman Peter have done a wonderful job in covering for me, and I thank them. However, it is not right that they should have to do so. After much soul searching I have decided that I must hand over to someone who knows that he/she will be around to do the job full time. As things stand at the moment, I expect to be away in Somalia until the day before the AGM.  Not too good for the Chairman, Committee and Branch Membership as a whole, when the Hon Sec cannot even prepare for the AGM.  

So, if there is anyone out there who would like to take over the position of Hon Sec, please contact Chairman Peter without delay.

Annual General Meeting 2009

The AGM  will be held at the Victory Services Club, Seymour Street, London on Saturday 16th May 2009, commencing at 11.00am.  At the conclusion of the meeting a buffet lunch at £5 a head will be available but only with a prior booking before 1st May with the Hon. Sec.  No booking ~ No Lunch   A bar facility will also be available.   Any member seeking accommodation must contact the Club and make their own arrangements direct.

Around And About The UK and Ireland

History  Section
7391 Alan Toms

Wanted – Books ~ I recently read the following which struck me at the time as particularly relevant to the BSAP:

“Orwell reminds us that control of the future is predicated on possession of the past. In the absence of historical certainty that past becomes a palimpsest on which convenient truths can be reinscribed with impunity.”

It is the duty of the Association to ensure that our history is properly recorded and available to prevent it being re-written. As part of our efforts to ensure this happens Geoff Quick, who maintains a bibliography of books relating to the BSAP, is heading efforts to try and have copies of as many of those books as possible deposited in the National Army Museum to ensure the correct version will always be available to refute any attempts at historical reinscription. We are starting with anything that is autobiographical or has a biographical content. (A full list of the bibliography can be found on the website, www.bsap.org - those without internet access can contact Geoff on: 01278 722 095).

Should anyone be in possession of one of those volumes, or know where one can be found, please contact Geoff. Whilst we are seeking donations the UK Branch would consider making a payment for any particularly valuable manuscript.

A selection of some of those needed are “Paradise Plundered” by Jim Baker, “Tatenda” by Ian “Brick” Bryson, “Far Bugles” by Colin Harding, “Some Famous Rhodesian Trials” by Alan Hardy and “How We Made Rhodesia” by Arthur Leonard.

The Books Of The BSAP series (formerly Outpost Memorables) continue to increase, the latest being “Commanding the Regiment” by Fred Punter. With a foreword by General the Lord Walker, a section is devoted to each CO and Commissioner with biographical details and photographs. Very good value at £5!

‘Troopers’ Tales’, dedicated to the memory of Mike Leach, has been published. A collection of some eleven tales it includes the memoirs of Lt. Col H.G. Seward and of 3967 Dennis “Johnny” Johnston relating to his BSAP service, as well as an account of the Filabusi Gold Robbery in which the main suspect was a BSAP Trooper - well worth a read.

The “BSAP in the World Wars” is shortly to be reprinted with considerable new material including an excerpt from. 

Victory Services Club Gatherings

4th November 2008 - saw the usual stalwarts brave the winter weather to attend - those present were: 4278 John Balchin, 4503 Derek Humberstone, 4853 Fred Punter, 5248 Alan Lane, 5469 Dave Grimbly, 5662 Barry Henson, 6308 Dan Hughes, 6348 Dennis Poole, 6527 Mike O’Donnell, 6905 Peter Phillips, 7359 Bertie Cubitt, 7391 Alan Toms and 19566 “Skip” Rausch.

2nd December 2008 - Christmas Get-together there was the usual good turnout of members, wives, family and friends, which provided a good atmosphere for this year’s gathering. During the evening, our Chairman, 6905 Peter Phillips welcomed everyone and thanked them for making the effort to attend and make the event worthwhile. He especially welcomed 8646 Andrew Field, on holiday from Zimbabwe. (Andrew is the Moderator of the BSA Police Association website).  Special thanks should also go to those members who donated prizes for the raffle, which despite the present economic climate, raised just over £200 for Association funds – well done. Also putting in an appearance and enjoying a few beers were: 4158 Tim Weimer, 4278 John Balchin, 4503 Derek and Joan Humberstone, 4735 Cliff Rogers, 4777 Tackie MacIntosh, 4819 Brian and Jacky Lay, 4840 Mike Purslow, 4853 Fred Punter, 4882 Peter Dancer and daughters Wendy and Carol, 4964 Mike Tadman, 5055 Ken and Jean Miners, 5248 Alan and Pauline Lane, 5468 Dave Adshead with Christian Adshead and Davina Jolley, 5469 Dave Grimbly, 5507 Brian Taylor, 5615 Tom and Joan Meekin (Northern Ireland), 5625 “Biff” Way, 5635 Dave Riley, 5883 Murray and Ellen Gouldstone, 6130 Randy Symmons, 6150 Dave Paterson, 6348 Dennis Poole, 6432 Chris Roberts, 6514/7562 Chris and Anne Johnson and guests Hobo and Jenny Hobson, 6527 Mike O’Donnell, 6609 Parry Jones, 6737 Mike Coleman, 7072 Terry and Jan Walmsley, 7211 Peter and Margaret Biddulph, [7327] Maggie Plant, 7359 Bertie and Jenny Cubitt, 7391 Alan and Lynn Toms, 7603 Bleign and Sue Knox-Davies (Best wishes to Bleign and Sue who will have returned to live in S. Africa by the time we publish this), 7677 Peter Dewe, 7784 Steve Acornley, 8278 Tony Marillier, Andre and Mignonne Okes and Dr Sue Onslow.                                                            

6th  January 2009  – the first gathering of the year and traditionally not well attended, probably due to the recent Christmas and New Year festivities, and on this occasion, a bitterly cold evening. Braving the elements and putting in an appearance were: 5248 Alan Lane, 5662 Barry Henson, 6348 Dennis Poole, 6737 Mike Coleman, 6905 Peter Phillips, 7359 Bertie Cubitt, 8021 Mike Rowley, 8338 Mal and Ros Thurman, 8646 Andy Field (Zimbabwe) and 10157 Ian Lamont. 

16th January 2009 - The first  3rd Friday Gathering.  6348 Dennis Poole reports that he attended this gathering  from 4.30pm until 7.0pm.  The other members there were 4278 John Balchin., 4735 Cliff Rogers and 5507 Brian Taylor.

3rd Febuary 2009 - A day of  severe weather and snowstorms in and around the UK including the Southern Counties led to the postponement of the first committee meeting of  2009 and a limited attendance at the monthly gathering.  Those present were 6737 Mike Coleman and 19566 “Skip” Rausch.  They were ‘it’ - honest they were! 

20th February 2009 - 6905 Peter Phillips reports that those present at the Friday gathering comprised himself,  4735 Cliff Rogers, 5265 “Biff” Way and [7327] Maggie Plant. 

3rd March 2009 – after last months “white out” it was pleasing to see such a good turnout. 4853 Fred Punter was on hand to sign copies of his book “Commanding the Regiment”, the latest in the series of Outpost books – all copies brought to the gathering were snapped up!! (Copies are available from Bertie Cubitt, Q. Rep : Price £5.00 plus p & p). Those enjoying the company were:- 4278 John Balchin, 4882 Peter Dancer, 5248 Alan Lane, 5469 Dave Grimbly, 5507 Brian Taylor with guest Carl Keith, 5662 Barry Henson, 5975 Mike Abbotts, 6130 Randy Symmons, 6308 Dan Hughes, 6348 Dennis Poole, 6527 Mike O’Donnell, 6630 Jim Hazlett, 6905 Peter Phillips, 7359 Bertie Cubitt, 8275/8954 Alastair and Vivienne Morgan and 8338 Mal Thurman.

20th March 2009 Present at this Friday’s gathering  were: 5625 “Biff” Way, 6737 Mike Coleman, 7233 Clive Shelley with his son Clint and 7661 Rod Shelley. Clive and Rod had travelled from Wales by coach to attend and were staying overnight.

North West Region
by 4933 Rod Wilson NEW email: rodwil2@tiscali.co.uk

Myerscough, 14th December 2008

In November I drove up to Cumbria to visit 3385 'Lummy' Lumholtz at his lovely home in Cockermouth.  Built on the side of a river I could almost have fished from my bedroom window!  Lummy has had to move into a residential home nearby in Cockermouth but returns to his home once a week for dinner with Janet. Now 96 years of age, and having attested two weeks before I was born, his short term memory is very bad., He did not remember me at first but as we had dinner and a few drinks, his memory seemed to return and we had a great discussion on the BSAP from 1934 until he departed in 1956. Sadly his wife was lost overboard whilst travelling back to Cape Town in 1947. (Lummy had flown back after long leave as apparently berths on ships were still hard to get in 1947). He wrote a book 'A Slice of Life' which I enjoyed and brought some copies back - still got two left at £6 if anyone is interested.

4039 Ted Chapman has recently arrived in UK and is living out in the sticks outside Penrith. Allen Day says he met him in Nyasland, Ted says he has never been to Nyasaland so that should be an interesting meeting in the future! Ted does not drive but has a bus service three days a week but none of course on a Sunday that may pass The Myerscough!

Our  Christmas Lunch was way down on numbers this year. We had a lot of apologies from those who have always attended, some were working whilst others were playing nursemaids to new grandchildren and some were sick etc etc etc. but as usual we had an excellent lunch for the even more excellent price of £10.50 per head.

Arnold and Paula left with a car boot full of Boerwors made at a farm a mile or so past The Myerscough. Apparently they have introduced many friends in North Wales to the sausage and get lots of orders of 'Bring me a Kilo next time you go' 

Those attending: 4041 Allen Day, 4933 Rod Wilson and daughter Andrea, [5607] Penny and Pete Bolton, [6314] Val Marsden, 6621 Stu and Wendy Findlay, 7084 Frank and Margaret Deardon, 8307 Flash Firth and Jeanette, 4549 Ken and 204504 Dorothy Standford-Smith, 7207 Arnold and 203679 Paula Woolley and guest Barbara Mercer.

Grovelling apologies! From Lance Combrink, Brian Hodson, Rhona Johnston, Larry King, Mike Parr, Steve Robins, Sid and Vera Strickland and Allen Whitehurst.

Sid Strickland called and told me that he has been diagnosed with Prostate Cancer just as things were looking up after Vera has been unable to travel for the past year or two they were hoping to attend the Christmas Lunch. Sid now faces a daily trip by ambulance bus from Barrow to Lancaster for treatment over a period of three months, that must be a round trip of at least 100 miles every day ! Sid says he will be thinking of us as usual and hopes in the future to attend again at our meetings.

The Myerscough on  March 8th 2009

13 or so members made it to the March ‘do’.  The weather being very undecided as to what it should do, the rain kept away for most part but it was very cold.

I managed to sell the last books I had, written by “Lummy” Lumholtz but I know there are just a few left if anyone wants a copy.

Our host had put on a couple of specials on the menu. all of which were tried and pronounced very good and as usual the normal menu was excellent.

Steve Robins attended, as he always does, having spent the Christmas period in Hong Kong and reports that the credit crunch is really biting in that part of the world with factory closures and many, many workers being made redundant. However, the Chinese government has waived the equivalent of our Council Tax for one year so that the people will have some cash to spend. Apparently the situation in China proper is just as bad, so who knows soon the goods in our shops might be stamped made in Fiji or Cambodia.

Some six years ago Penny Walker, the 17 year old daughter of the late 7022 David Walker, gave us a little talk on her experiences learning to fly as she was just about to get her solo licence. Well, now I hear that Penny is just a little older and is flying for British Airways out of Gatwick as Second Officer. Well done Penny.

Mike Parr gave me the internet address shown below, which has been set up in the Eastern Cape and has photographs which people have posted, some of them how they looked when they attested  and how they look now up to 50 years or so later. I have had a quick look and have seen a few I knew and also a young Ron Pilborough and Tom Coey. Have a look and if you like post your own photos. There are also a number of Squad photos and recent meetings around the world. www.bsapec.gq.nu/photoalbum.html 

Those attending: 4041 Allen Day, 4549 Ken and 204504 Dot Standford-Smith, 4933 Rod Wilson, 5642 Mike Parr, 7084 Frank and Margaret Deardon, 7192 Steve Robins, 8131 Brian and Anne Hodson, 8199 Bugs and Tessa Moran and guest Barbara Mercer.

Apologies from: 5658 Alan Whitehurst, 6621 Stu Findlay, 7207 Arnold and Paula Woolley, 8307 Flash Firth, 9786 Lance Combrinck and three others whose names escape me just now.

Remembrance Service: Sunday 9th November 2008

On a dull, chilly but dry morning, the Association was again represented at the annual Service of Remembrance, organised by the Rhodesian Army Association, and held at the Field of Remembrance, St. Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey, London. 

A good gathering of ex-Rhodesian service members, family and friends attended the service, which was conducted by 4600 Reverend Terry Mesley-Spong (Terry served in both the BSAP and Kenya Police before joining the Army where he became Senior Chaplain, HQ 1 Brigade).

Our Chairman, 6905 Peter Phillips read the Lesson.  There were six Army standards together with the BSAP standard, which was positioned on the ‘Right of the Line’, and carried this year by 5248 Alan Lane.

Also attending the service were: 4158 Tim Weimer, 4278 John Balchin, 4503 Derek Humberstone and daughter Madelyn, 6348 Dennis Poole, 7359 Bertie and Jenny Cubitt, 19566 ‘Skip’ Rausch, Barry Lennox (Associate), Pauline and Alison Lane and Jean Illingworth and her husband (Jean is the daughter of former Commissioner, 2853 Lt Col Harold Jackson). Following the service, an enjoyable lunch was held at the nearby Novotel Hotel.

Dates For Your Diary 2009

The LONDON Monthly Gatherings take place at the Victory Services Club (VSC), Seymour Street off Edgware Road, around the corner from Marble Arch, from 5.30pm until late.

June: Tuesday 2nd 5.30pm VSC; Sunday 14th 12 noon North West ‘do’ at the Myerscough

July: Tuesday 7th  5.30pm-VSC; Friday-Saturday  24/25th The Rutland Braai  at the Whitwell Hotel & Conference Centre.

August: Tuesday  4th 5.30pm-VSC

September: Tuesday  1st 5.30pm-VSC; Saturday 5th The Ireland Gathering at Clonmel from noon until ???; Sunday 13th North West ‘do’ at the  Myerscough at 12 noon..; Annual Dinner Friday  25th 6pm at VSC

October: Saturday 3rd The Chudleigh bash from 11.30am; Tuesday  6th 5.30pm-VSC

November: Tuesday 3rd  5.30pm-VSC; Sunday 8th 10.15am Remembrance Service at Field of Remembrance, St Margaret’s Church (next to  Westminster. Abbey).

December: Tuesday  1st  5.30pm Christmas get-together at VSC; Sunday 13th 12 noon Christmas Lunch at Myerscough.
 

The UK Inpost

4614 Alastair Bulman wrote to our Hon Sec, Barry Henson, saying “Just a note to wish you and all the Regiment a Happy festive season. Lis (my Wife) and I cannot drive but we live in this retirement flat in Edinburgh surrounded by many memories and photographs of Escorts, Hatfield, Gwelo and Salisbury Urban and thanks for the many telephone messages received at the behest of the Outpost from Gus Gale, Dick Edie, Bevan Whitechurch and many more. To keep in touch via the Outpost means a lot to us who have many happy memories of U.K. barbecues at Cotswolds and others.Thanks to E Mail we keep in touch with Mike Harvey, John Seward, Hamish Harvey and others. We Play Kum A Kye to the neighbours to keep their spirits up. So Lis and I drink a toast to you all.”

5639 Mike Hoggarth and 5642 Mike Parr were in the same squad - 2/57. Mike H says after leaving depot we went our separate ways but I think it was about 1959 that he was in Salisbury Hospital having an op on varicose veins when I went to visit him and that is the last time I saw him - until June 2008 when happily we met up again at my place.

4964 Mike Tadman says that pieces on ‘Riding Horses of the Fifties’ in recent issues have brought back memories of his riding experiences in Squad 15/52. In particular he recalls RH Emperor noting that he was a delightful ride but that the attraction only lasted whilst actually sitting on him because once one was dismounted he could be quite dangerous. We were told not to stand directly behind him. I once saw him kick an African recruit squarely in the face, who amazingly didn’t fall over but just stood there with blood spurting everywhere. I was naïve enough to suppose that only the rear end was dangerous but once I bent down in front of him he picked me up by the skin on my ribs. I shrieked and he dropped me. In the showers later my colleagues marvelled at the big oval bruise on my back, presuming it was hoof-print. In fact it was a ring of tooth marks.

5566 David Macdonald of Squad 8/56 says he also enjoyed Steve Barry’s article ‘Horses of the Fifties’ saying “His knowledge of the horses and their names are far superior to mine, but he joined the Mounted Squad whereas upon leaving Depot I was sent to Gwanda”.   My only other experience of horses was when I was posted for a short while to Matobo where I  performed a one-horse patrol before returning to Gwanda. I remember Kingdom, Kentucky, Matchless and Imp. Like Steve, Imp was also my passing out horse and what a great little horse he was and what a character. Imp did hate having his spine touched. All one had to do was to run two fingers down each side of his spine for him to lash out. Having got on his back for the first time I couldn’t get that horse to move forward. Pete Langham came up to me and said “He knows you’re new on his back, now dismount, walk him around a bit and then try again.” Imp did prove an easy ride

5975 Mike Abbotts recently made a visit to 5456 Doug Broderick and his wife Carol.  In the late sixties / early seventies the then Inspector Brodrick and the then S/O Abbotts were both stationed at Rhodesville together with the then P/O 8131 Brian Hodson and various others.  Overall good memories of that period.

4083 John Marshall, sent us a few photos from 1946. John says that he can’t remember his squad number. The record shows that there were 58 members recruited on 11th June 1946 but it does not show which of these formed part of individual squads.  The first photo was taken at a railway stop en-route from Durban to Rhodesia and featured 4083 John Marshall, 4074 Ron Blackmore and 4052 Lawrence Lamont.  Another photo taken at Rusape in 1946 features a group photograph of members of the Force stationed there.  Those featured were 3939 P K Allum, 4046 Ted Galloway, 3973 Anthony Maynard, 4055 David (Taffy) Morgan and 4119 William (Paddy) Watson.

518 Ken Mitchell says “ I was interested and pleased to see from Western Cape February Outpost that a Rhodesian Independence Commemorative Medal has been produced. I can second Peter Phillips endorsement of the quality of Awards Productions products since I too have examples including Berlin Airlift and R.A.F service. The 'News from the ‘UK' section of our Outpost had a couple of surprises for me. I was sorry to realise that Allen Lucas has passed on but happily surprised to see mention of 5523 Bob Jenkins. Though having seen mention from time to time of Phil Devlin, John Whenman, Paddy Blanchfield, Dave Hogg (and wife Caroline), I had heard nothing of other 6/56 Squad members since pass out with exception of Paddy Cosgrove who lives in nearby Simonstown. Paddy and I have reminisced from time to time and Bob has been among those whose whereabouts we have wondered. Bob was, I think, the shortest member of our squad, always a cheery grin on his face, and an abiding memory is the day when on parade on the square Gerry Winchcombe demanded each of us to outline our previous military or police service. Bob's response, 'Sar'nt, The Green Howards, small arms and drill instructor!' Coming from the shortest member of the squad the somewhat considerably taller and heavier built Gerry could not suppress his amusement especially in the face of Bob's beaming grin. Bob, too, was responsible for giving all of us a laugh when he recounted the tale of one of his Army colleagues affianced to the daughter of a vicar, staying at the vicarage and at conclusion of a late dinner and evening announced his departure to bed in terms indicating he thought he was among his mates in barracks rather than a guest in the vicarage. Of course, modesty prevents his word be repeated here but I wonder if Bob still remembers. Anyway, if possible through your pages, please pass on to Bob my good wishes and those of Paddy Cosgrove.”

5976 Nigel Seaward says that on driving home from a visit to the South with his wife Pauline they stopped off to explore the rural charm of the village of Worthington where their main interest was St Matthew's Church. He continues that whilst there they found the tiny lock-up, called ‘The Round House’ used by the local Constable from the 1770s. The wording of the notice is “The Round House is believed to date back from the 18th Century. It is a listed building and Ancient Scheduled Monument.  Until the Leicestershire Police Force was established in 1839 the responsibility for maintaining law and order lay with the Parish Constable. Among his duties was that of apprehending suspect criminals and keeping them secure in the Round House until he could bring them before the Justices.   For  further information please contact the Worthington Parish Council on 01530 222970. An information leaflet on The Round House is available free at the village shop or pub.  Nigel says that they checked the local shop but they had no copies of the information leaflet and also had a chat with the local vicar who said that there used to be an animal pound adjacent to the lock-up, where the miscreant's animals could be kept.

3948 Eric Collier came across a tablet, its contents copied below, at St Martin’s Church, Salisbury (Wiltshire) and says that it would seem to explain why the street in which the Salisbury (Rhodesia) Magistrates’ Court stood was called Forbes Avenue. Very interesting for those of us who didn’t really think where the name came from.  The tablet read: In loving memory of Major Patrick William Forbes of the Hollies Salisbury, born on 31 August 1861, died 27 May 1923.  Served in S. Africa with his regiment the 6th  Inniskilling Dragoons from 1881-1889.  He entered Mashonaland with the Pioneers 1890 led BSA Co Forces into Matabeleland 1893, commanded them at the battle of Shangani.  First Magistrate of Salisbury Rhodesia, Administrator of N. Zambesia, on staff Southern Command 1914-1916, Church Warden of this Parish  1920-1923. 

4851 Murray Harrison writes of a trip to Canada with his wife Mavis and says: Prior to departure I sent e-mail to Terry Looker in August to tell him and Audrey of our impending visit in September. I was saddened to receive a reply from Audrey to say that Terry had passed way, but hoped that we could meet up. Terry and I came from Dover, but did not know each other until we joined the BSAP. Audrey and I were in the Police choir in the late sixties. Audrey, Mavis and I met up for lunch in Newmarket and then returned to her home for tea. Altogether a pleasant few hours.  We travelled about 2700 km during our holiday; the first destination was Niagara Falls, very spectacular, very commercialized and smaller than expected. We then spent a weekend with friends at a lakeside cottage about two hours drive from Newmarket. We went exploring on the lake, did a little fishing and enjoyed the peace and quiet. Our next stop was Ottawa, seat of government, lovely city; we stayed about 10 km out but on a bus route, so avoided all the traffic and the parking. After two days we set off for Quebec, again staying in a motel some distance from the city. The Chateau is very beautiful and dominates the port area facing the river. The old city is very interesting, full of good restaurants and shops.   On the return journey we decided to give Montreal a miss and drove back direct to Newmarket to spend the last few days of our holiday with our friends. The vastness of Canada reminded me of Africa and I look forward to our next visit.

4278 John Balchin was having a read through the ‘Navy & Army Illustrated, Vol X 1900’ some time ago. He was reading an article titled “The Gallant Men of Cape Colony” which also referred to “…certain British South African Police being part of the resourceful garrison at Mafeking.”  Referring to the ‘n’ at the end of the word “African” John says it seems that in 1900 we were commonly referred to as the British South “African” Police - with the ‘n’. The article also makes reference to the fact that the British South African Police were from Rhodesia – saying “That was nice of them!”

50th Anniversary Squads 3 & 4 of 1959

There were 27 members in all making up squads 3 & 4 of 1959 and although there was an administrative split, almost all training was undertaken jointly.  Our squad members were: 3 Squad: 5971 Steve Heyworth, 5972 John Tyrrell (Died 18/05/1975), 5973 Ian McKend, 5974 Dave Hall, 5975 Mike Abbotts, 5976 Nigel Seaward, 5977 Roger Lebish, 5978 Brian Thom, 5979 Brian Stuart-William, 5980 Geoff Gwilt, 5981 Phil Halkier, 5982 Peter Durston (Died).

4 Squad: 5983 John McManmon (Died 2004) 5984 Russ Latham (Died 1995), 5985 Mike Norton (Died 1998), 5986 Keith Clarke, 5987 Les Leonard, 5988 Peter Evans, 5989 Piet Seegers (Died 1963), 5990 Dirk Botha, 5991 Donald Joss, 5992 Tony Smith, 5993 Tony Andersen, 5994 “Jacko” Wilson (Died 1960) 5995 William “Spanner” Spence (Died 2003).

Changing the subject we now take a look at other aspects of our life! Because the squads ahead of us were in Nyasaland following the banning of the Nyasaland ANC, we were nominated as the squad to represent the Force at Queen Elizabeth II’s official Birthday Parade that year. One of the things that happened there was that I (Mike Abbotts) had been in the Royal Military Police before joining the BSAP. In the RMP we did not carry rifles but had side arms, pistols and the like. I was stationed in Singapore at one stage and was awarded the General Service Medal (with clasp ‘Malaya’) so I learned the arms drill with a rifle but I was not wearing my medal – until we went on parade. When we were presenting arms I flicked my GSM away into the field and had to engage the assistance of youngsters to go and look for it. They did find it and I gave them 5 shillings for their help.

Nigel Seaward recalls that at or approaching our pass out he gave his posting preference as Matabeleland District - and was then posted to Salisbury Central with everyone else, except Russell Latham who was in hospital. After walking the beat for about three weeks he was posted to District Branch at Rusape, where he was delighted to meet up again with Russell, who had been transferred there on discharge from hospital. He says that was the last he was to see of most of our squad members. Rusape, incidentally, was the home town of Pete Evans. Another who was to become a very good friend of Nigel was Roger Lebish who was also soon in the District Branch, and with John McManmon and Russell Latham was promoted to the rank of Sergeant soon after completing his ‘three’. Russell left a couple of years later to go farming in Zululand. Roger was to leave the Force in 1964 but within a year, in February 1965, he was back in again with new Force number 7280.

By chance Nigel was on CID duty at Salisbury Airport on the day that he returned to rejoin, and was thus the first to welcome him back. They were both stationed at Kariba throughout 1967, and both took early retirement in 1980.   In 1983 Roger Lebish was living in Townsville in Queensland where Nigel visited him. He recalls that Roger took him yachting, way out into the Great Barrier Reef, and another time by motor vessel to a very special diving spot on the reef about forty miles off shore. Nigel says it is thanks to him that he came to realise that there really was ‘life’ after Rhodesia, the BSAP and the Zambezi Valley.  In conclusion Nigel says that he hopes that these few personal memories act as a happy reminder to add to warm greetings to all surviving squad mates, and encourage those who may have been silent these many years to come forward with memories of their own.

Although not a member of the UK Branch (which I will seek to overcome) 5978 Brian Thom, who is living in Lancashire, said “that quite by chance his son found our article on the internet and was interested to note that you are seeking my whereabouts, so in accordance with this, I am reporting in!”  Brian and his wife Carol retired to the UK from South Africa in 2000 to be near their son and daughter and their families.

As you can guess, space is a consideration in all these items and recording everything which happened over the past 50 years in one issue is ‘not on’ as the saying has it. Hence these brief overviews.  However if there is anything any of our readers would like to expand upon – or indeed have expanded for them – please don’t hesitate to give us a call and we will oblige.

An example, in closing, is that our previous note on this topic was printed in the Transvaal Outpost. This prompted 6012 Pete Moscardi, a member of the Transvaal Branch who had been a member Squad 5 of 59 to say that he had read the first UK Branch item in the Transvaal Outpost.  In conclusion he said that he would love to hear from any of my old squad colleagues. He lives in Bryanston in Johannesburg, e-mail: pete@moscardi.co.za and telephone number is 0027 11 706 3005.

Obituaries

It is with regret that we report the following deaths. We extend our deep sympathy to the family and friends of the deceased.

8402 Colin Edward John Martin died on 16th October 2008, his 57th birthday, in Hailsham, Sussex as a result of heart failure. Colin, who was not a member of the Association, served from 27th January 1970 to 1st May 1980 leaving with the rank of Patrol Officer.

5044 Anthony Eric (Tony) Bradshaw died on 4th November 2008 at Romsey in Hampshire. Tony, who was a member of the Association, served from 3rd May 1953 to 1st October 1973 retiring with the rank of Superintendent. There was a large gathering at Tony’s funeral, both from his work with Southampton solicitors and friends made both in the BSAP and in his years back in the UK. The Association was represented by Mike and Celia Wiltshire, Ron and Jill Ivey, Gerry Paxton, Biff Way, Peter Dancer, Cliff Rogers, Bob Morriston, John Turk, Chris and Helga Sewell and Brian Taylor. Nigel Seaward, another old friend of Tony, who was unable to attend the funeral, adds condolences from himself and his wife Pauline Tony is survived by his wife Jenny, sons Peter and Chris and daughter Lindsay.

3411 Cecil Mendham (Bunty) Ludlow.  John Seward, Honorary Secretary, Australia Branch reports Bunty’s death on 13th November 2008 at an old peoples home in Perth, Australia at the grand age of 93 years. Born in Enkledoorn, Bunty, initially served as a Cadet, before he attested into the Force on 15th August 1934. He served mainly in the District Branch, notably at Mount Darwin, Concession, Gatooma and Marandellas from where he retired on 31st August 1958, with the rank of Chief Inspector.  During the war, Bunty spent two years attached to the Occupied Enemy Administration in Ethiopia and Somalia. After retiring from the Force, he joined Marandellas Town Council prior to taking up employment with the Grain Marketing Board, before finally retiring in 1981. Shortly afterwards Bunty and his wife, Aiofa, emigrated to Australia. Kerry Hoadley, John Seward, Rob Gates, Lew Whitmore, Don Bulloch and George Gault represented the Association at his funeral. Bunty will be remembered by all who knew him for his tremendous wit, sense of humour and integrity. His wife Aiofa, daughters Mary and Clare, son Martin and five grandchildren survive him.

9749 Derek John Beets collapsed and died at work on 24th November 2008 in Durban. Derek served between 14th September 1976 and 31st July 1980 when he transferred to the Zimbabwe Republic Police until 1st December 1982, leaving with the rank of Detective Section Officer.

6387 Lyndon Boyd (Taffy) Morgan passed away on 25th November 2008 at Haverfordwest, Wales, after suffering kidney failure. His wife Margot was with him to the end. Taffy and Margot were married in Haverfordwest in 1964 with both Taffy and his best man Will Cornell, in BSAP uniform. Taffy served from 15th May 1961 until 31st July 1980. He then transferred to the Zimbabwe Republic Police where he served until the 15th June 1984, retiring in the rank of Superintendent.

Diana Strouts. Sadly we record that Diana, wife of 6049 John Strouts, died on 13th December 2008 in a nursing home at Clevedon, Somerset. She had suffered from Alzheimer’s disease for several years.

4920 Derek John Moore died on 15th December 2008 in Cape Town. Derek served between 5th May 1952 and 7th May 1972, retiring in the rank of Chief Inspector. His wife Carol, daughters Cathy and Sheila and son Chris survive him.

F/R 17392 John Maurice Ovenden. John Seward, Honorary Secretary, Australia Branch reports John’s passing, peacefully in his sleep, on 18th December 2008 at his home in Perth, Western Australia. He had not been ill and it was a great shock to his wife Jean and family, as it was to all who knew him. He was an active member of the Australian Branch of the Association.

8792 Ian Douglas Page died on 11th January 2009 in Cape Town as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Ian, a member of the Western Cape Branch of the Association, served from 28th March 1972 until 27th March 1975, leaving in the rank of Patrol Officer.

P/R 3249 John Peter Wilkins died on 12th January 2009 in Johannesburg whilst visiting his family. John had been a staunch member of the Eastern Cape Branch of the Association for a number of years and looked upon his service in the BSAP Reserve with pride.

8235 Martin Roger Kay a respected member and former Chairman of the Mashonaland Branch of the Association died on 24th January 2009 in Johannesburg. Martin had left Zimbabwe for Johannesburg on 17th January for medical treatment for suspected leukaemia and had been released from hospital for the weekend prior to the commencement of treatment the following week. Martin served from 15th April 1969 to 31st July 1980 when he transferred to the Zimbabwe Republic Police until 1st August 1983, retiring with the rank of Detective Chief Inspector. His wife, Lynne, survives him.

Lyn Lawson. We are sad to announce the death of Lyn, wife of 5728 Derek Lawson, from complications following a stroke on 24th January 2009. Lyn and Derek had been married for 48 years.

5470 Duane (Buddy) Deetlefs died on 6th March 2009 in Pietermaritzburg. Buddy joined the Force on 13th April 1956 retiring on gratuity on 31st July 1968 with the rank of Section Officer. Buddy was the founding Honorary Secretary of the Natal Midlands Branch of the Association in which position he served with distinction for seven years and was a stalwart member of the Association, always organizing behind the scenes. He will be greatly missed.

5219 Roger Booth died on the 29th February, 2008, at Westmorland General Hospital, Kendal, after suffering a stroke. He had been ill for about a year. Roger was not a member of the UK Branch. He served from 14th March 1954 to 13th January 1978, leaving in the rank of Superintendant. His wife Hazel survives him.

6142 Eric James Glanfield died at his home in Gonubie, East London on Saturday 14th March 2009 as a result of a heart attack while working in his garden. He leaves a wife and three children who are all overseas. Eric served in the force from 18th March 1960 until 26th September 1963. He left in the rank of Constable.  (Eric is not to be confused with Dick Glanfield, Hon Sec of the Transvaal Branch, who is still alive. Ed.)

May They Rest In Peace

On that sad note I conclude this UK Home News item.

Mike Abbotts 5975

Editor UK Outpost