There has been a RAFA presence in the Ryedale area for more than 50 years and this milestone is being recognised on Sunday 17th July at 11am in a ceremony at Eden Camp, when 'gold tassels' to go on the Branch standard are being awarded. It is hoped that the Commanding Officers from two local RAF stations will be present together, with a guest VIP and the Director of the Northern Area of RAFA, as well as standards from other ex-service organisations.

            Ryedale Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association meets every First Wednesday of the month (except January and August) at The Old Lodge Hotel, Malton, from 3pm - 4.30pm, for a social meeting when there is usually a guest speaker as well. The Branch also usually has a meeting on the third Wednesday at a local restaurant for a lunch.

            Membership is open to anyone who has an interest in the Royal Air Force, plus serving and ex-serving members of the RAF or WRAF. The Association, which draws membership from a wide area, exists to support serving and ex-serving members of the RAF, together with their dependants in times of need.

Barry Holliss.