1.  Introduction: Finally, we can hold the Reunion on Back Badge Day 21st March 2026 in the WOs & Sgts Mess at Imjin Barracks Innsworth Gloucester GL113 1HW.

John Marsh writes:

"Many thanks to Norman for doing the ground work for our autumn meeting which will take place on Thursday 2 October 2025 at Upavon Golf Club - https://www.upavongolfclub.co.uk/
 

Salisbury City Council has invited the Association to take part in the city's Remembrance Sunday Parade at the War Memorial on Sunday 9 November followed by a Service at St. Thomas' Church.  Attendees are requested to form up on Avon Approach from 09:30 hours.  Once the Church Service is complete the Parade will reform and return to the Guildhall Square for the Royal British Legion address from the Guildhall steps before being dismissed at approximately 12:45 hours.

The Royal British Legion have declined our request to increase our allocation for the RBL Cenotaph Parade in Whitehall this year from 25 to our usual 30 places.  This is a direct consequence of the fact that only 18 members logged on to the RBL website in 2024 to claim their tickets.  This is particularly unfortunate since this year we have had 35 applicants, so presently we have 10 names on our reserve list.

Major Clyde Aylin, who served with 1st Battalion The Royal Berkshire Regiment in Cyprus during 1956 - 59, attended the Cyprus Veterans Memorial Service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire on 24 August.  He writes that "it was held to remember the 371 soldiers who died in this extraordinary war on two fronts - like elsewhere.  On the one hand the Eoka Ennosis campaign by the Greek Cypriots and on the other hand keeping the Greek and Turkish Cypriots from killing one another.  We additionally took part in riot control in Nicosia."

The 75th Anniversary Commemorative Lunch for the Battle of the Imjin River is scheduled to take place at Taunton Rugby Football Club, Veritas Park, Hyde Lane, Bathpool, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8BU on Sunday, the 10th of May 2026 at 1200hrs for 1245hrs. This later-than-usual date is to avoid clashing with other national and international events taking place in April. We hope to make this the best Imjin Lunch event, befitting this 75th Anniversary, and we are planning special activities to mark this historic milestone.

The two-course carvery & dessert menu, including tea & coffee, is £20 per person, and whilst this is the first increase in three years, it is still extremely good value, thanks to being generously discounted by the Association.  Those who have been to this venue are familiar with the great food, friendly staff, comfortable surroundings, excellent ambience, and, of course, good company. There are disabled facilities, including a lift to the Hyde Suite. The venue is easy to find, just off J25 M5 and has parking for 250 cars.  There will also be a raffle held after lunch, so please bring along a suitable gift.  

This year, to allow maximum attendance and other functionality, all tables will be standard round 10-seaters.  Block bookings are still available, but as detailed above, limited to 10 per table. Due to the continued success of this event, early booking is strongly advised to avoid disappointment; we have been fully booked for the last three years.  To register your interest, please visit the following link to the Association Web Page which contains all the information on how to apply and pay for your tickets:

The RGBW Regimental Association - The Imjin Lunch

If you experience difficulties using the web page, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

If you have any questions about the event, please contact:   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We look forward to seeing all our many friends in 2026 for the 75th Anniversary Imjin Lunch

Yours aye

Martin Talling

County Chairman Somerset

Join us for a powerful and moving evening of commemoration as Wells Cathedral hosts the Somerset Festival of Remembrance 2025, a one-off event marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  This is likely to be one of the very last occasions on which veterans who took part might be present. Organised by Somerset County Royal British Legion, this unique occasion will honour the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of Somerset’s people at home and abroad during World War II. The evening will feature music, stories, and ceremony, including performances by the Central Band of the Royal British Legion and the Yeovilton Military Wives Choir, contributions from the County's cadet forces and tributes from veterans and civic leaders. Highlights include parading the Somerset Book of Honour, an Act of Remembrance with poppy drop, and a multi-themed programme tracing Somerset’s wartime experience from mobilisation to liberation and legacy. The evening will be compered by former BBC broadcasters Clinton Rogers DL and Ali Vowles DL. This is a community-centred and inclusive event, both solemn and uplifting, and open to all. Early booking is advised. All proceeds support the Royal British Legion and Wells Cathedral.

Tickets are now available via the following Eventbrite link:  https://somerset-festival-of-remembrance-2025.eventbrite.co.uk/

2^nd Battalion the Gloucestershire Regiment

Towns and villages all through Holland are celebrating the 80^th anniversary of their liberation in WW2.  One of the largest celebrations is a weeklong set of activities in Roosendaal.  Educational films, displays, re-enactments, displays, marches and events took place from 26^th Oct – 3^rd Nov 2024.

The Glosters were part of the 49^th Inf Div, nicknamed the polar bears, other units involved included the 4th Lincolns,1/4 KOYLI, Hallams Bn, 11^th Royal Scots, 1 Leicesters,  1/7^th DWR, 1 SWB, 2^nd Essex and supported by 55, 69, 89, 143, 185 RA, 49 Sigs, 2^nd Kensingtons and 9 RTR.  The division formed part of Monty’s drive up towards the ports of Rotterdam and Amsterdam and east towards Arnhem.

The RGBW Association was invited to take part in the celebrations at the end of the week to acknowledge the participation of the 2^nd Battalion The Gloucestershire Regiment.  The townspeople of Roosendaal were extremely courteous and grateful for the handful of various association representatives from the UK to be in attendance.  They take their liberation extremely seriously; it is taught at an early age in schools and celebrated by all age groups.

On the first day, we were taken to “Camp Thruster” where there was a large display of military vehicles and equipments.  The enthusiasm and dedication were evident with many of them private collectors of equipment and memorabilia.  Most of the vehicles (over 20) were also in private hands after being lovingly restored over the decades.  The pride and joy of the display was an immaculate Churchill tank in full working order, the only private example in Europe.  During the evening, we were invited to a concert starring the Brentwood Imperial Youth Band, proudly wearing their Polar Bear badges.

Day two involved going around the Roosendaal area on a battlefield tour and meeting up with the local veterans in the town's first in/last out pub - Café De Veestallen.  This was the first building secured by the British forces on entering Roosendaal and remained undamaged throughout the war.  Most of the internal fitments and decor have remained unchanged since WW2 and are fitting to the loyal veterans' watering hole.  The various local army associations sadly closed over the years as their memberships declined, but one of the locals, a Colonel from the Dutch commandos, started an all-arms Roosendaal Association four years ago and it has now over 100 members around Roosendaal, from all services and units, a fantastic achievement,

After a liquid lunch the veterans from all countries fell in outside, standards raised to greet the columns of re-enactment vehicles and men, proudly led by the Churchill tank.  After falling in behind we all marched to the memorial square where the Polar Bear monument is located.  The band gave a rendition of wartime tunes, regimental marches and national anthems before the wreath-laying ceremony which was led by the Duke of Wellington Regiment and The Gloucestershire Regiment, followed by the mayor and all the various dignitaries and representatives. After the service was finished there was a photo shoot for about an hour (there were about 1000 locals in attendance) and then back to that famous pub for more food and drink.

Overall, It was a memorable visit for which I am extremely grateful to have been invited.  The locals take their liberation extremely seriously and is a foundation for their freedom and democracy.  I would like to thank the owners of the Tongerlo Hotel for their impeccable service and for spending so much time with us.  I am also grateful for the party from the Duke of Wellingtons who adopted me over the weekend.  Attached are several snaps made; I will add some of the professional pictures when they become available.   “By our deeds, we are known”   Martin Talling, County Chairman

The annual Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in London, organised by The Royal British Legion, will be held on Sunday 10 November this year. 

The Association normally receives 30 places for those wishing to march on the parade.  It is always a great event, combining national significance with the opportunity to meet up with regimental friends both old and new. 

Members are invited to bid to attend this year's Service by contacting the Association Secretary, Major (Retd) Steven Bowkett at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone on 01367 240531).  There are still plenty of places available.

What are you doing on the 20th July?
Do you live near Salisbury?
Are you a social creature?
If you answered:
Nothing.
Yes.
Yes.
Then a magical Hog Roast & hot rocks music is right up your alley.
What could be a finer place to spend a convivial evening than at the The Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum enjoying yourself?
Spread the word & let other know what they could be missing.

More info here - https://www.thewardrobe.org.uk/.../hot-rocks-and-hog-roast

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Bristol ABF Charity Day at Bristol and Clifton Golf Club - Thursday 23 May 2024

The Regimental Golf Society hopes to enter 2 x 4-ball teams.  Those interested should speak to John Marsh.

Annual Summer Meeting of the Regimental Golf Society -  Erlestoke Golf Club - 30/31 May 2024

Fully subscribed this year with 20 members playing.
 

DERR 65th Anniversary Gathering - Warners Lakeside, Hayling Island - Friday 7 - Sunday 9 June 2024

Following on from the successful 50th and 60th DERR Anniversary Reunions, Bill Sherman has taken the initiative to organise a 65th Anniversary Reunion, again at Hayling Island, Hampshire.  To book online, follow this link:

Alternatively, the telephone number to book is: 0330 100 9774 - Option 2

The Burma Cup - Thornbury Golf Club - 14 June 2024

The Slashers are hosting this event and Steve MacIntyre will be the Team Captain.

Maiwand Gathering and Reunion - Sunday 14 July 2024 at Brock Barracks

The Reading Branch of the Association will hold its annual Maiwand Reunion and Gathering at Brock Barracks in Reading on Sunday 14 July 2024.  The event will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to include:

• Memorial Service at the Brock Barracks Cenotaph
• March Past
• Two Course Hot Lunch
• Cash Bar in the Dragon Club
• Static Displays by 7 Rifles
• Musical Event

The cost will be £14.50 per person.  All Association members are encouraged to attend.  Further details can be obtained from Mr Peter Richens (Email: <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.> or Tel: 07527 997392).

A booking form is attached at the end of this newsletter.

The Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) Devon Charity Day at Dainton Park Golf Club - Wednesday 17 July 2024

Organised by Trevor Ongley.  See the notice in last month's Newsletter.

RGBW Officers' Club Lunch - The Wardrobe - Saturday 20 July 2024

Slashers Annual Meeting - Puckrup Hall Golf Club (Tewksbury) - 16 August 2024

Reading Branch Summer Lunch - Toby Carvery, Lower Early - Friday 6 September 2024

The cost will be £5.00 per head for members and spouses/partners or £8.00 per head for other guests.  No charge will be made for widows of Association members.

The Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) Dorset Charity Day - Rushmore Golf Club - Friday 20 September 2024

Officers’ Annual Back Badge Lunch 2024 - Chavenage House - Sunday 6 October 2024

The annual Officers’ Back Badge Lunch will be held on Sunday 6 October, again at Chavenage House, near Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8XP.

The Rifles Regimental Golf Meeting - South Winchester Golf Club - Monday 7 October 2024

Autumn Meeting of the Regimental Golf Society - Upavon Golf Club - Thursday 10 October 2024

59/94 Club Lunch - The Wardrobe - Friday 11 October 2024

The next 59/94 Club lunch will be held at The Wardrobe on Friday 11 October 2024.  Further details will follow closer to the event.  Club members are asked to ‘save the day’.

The annual Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in London, organised by The Royal British Legion, will be held on Sunday 10 November this year.  The Association normally receives 30 places for those wishing to march on the parade.  It is always a great event, combining national significance with the opportunity to meet up with regimental friends both old and new.  Members are invited to bid to attend this years Service by getting in touch with the Association Secretary, Major (Retd) Steven Bowkett at <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.> or by telephone on 01367 240531).  There is always plenty of demand for places so members are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

The Somerset Branch of the Association held their annual Imjin Lunch at Taunton Rugby Club, Veritas Park, Hyde Lane, Bathpool, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 8BU at 12:00 hours (for 12:45) on Sunday 21 April.  An excellent event including 2 course carver and dessert menu, including tea and coffee, it was very well organised by Martin Talling and his team and well attended.  Attendees included the new Association Chairman, Major Jon Wort.  The photograph below shows Brigadier Martin Vine, delighted to have won the raffle 'big prize'.

Nearly 130 members of the Association and guests sat down to a splendid luncheon in the WOs’ and Sgt’s Mess at HQ The ARRC at Innsworth on Saturday 23 March, following the packed Back Badge Reunion service at St. Mary de Lode church in Gloucester and march past through the city centre.  Fortuitously, the rain held off for the march past thus demonstrating that the sun shines on the good.  A stirring address was given by General Grist and the salute was taken by the Sheriff and Deputy Mayor of Gloucester, Cllr Justin Hudson, the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, Mr Henry Robinson DL and Mr Roger Head OBE DL representing HM Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire.

I suspect that many of you have picked up that a major redevelopment of the regimental museum housed in the Wardrobe will take place from Nov 24 to Feb/Mar 25. Part of the project aims to bring the stories and histories of those that have served in our regiments to life and there is an opportunity to have your picture and a brief service history on display on the "Supporters Wall".

This prominent display will feature real life profiles sealed on wooden tiles which rotate to reveal a summary of service. Visitors can interact with the wall and look through a manuscript which has a full page for each person, with more pictures and life and service details.

Read more

A concert at Salisbury Cathedral on Thursday 8 February (seated by 6.45 pm with concert ending by 8.30 pm) has been recently highlighted. In addition to a concert pianist there are two participating military bands (Rifles and Grenadier Guards).  Details are:

• The concert will see award-winning pianist Rupert Egerton-Smith perform alongside The Band and Bugles of The Rifles and The Band of The Grenadier Guards.
• The event not only marks one of the rare occasions that the two Bands will perform together in a concert, but it is also Rupert Egerton-Smith’s debut performance alongside them, before the start of his East Coast recital tour of the United States of America.
• The concert itself will take the audience on an exciting and unique musical journey; celebrating the rich histories of the two regiments and paying homage to the local Wiltshire are

Booking can be accessed via the above link or by going to the Salisbury Cathedral website and looking for ‘what’s on’ for Thursday 8 February. 

Friday saw the funeral of Brian Wright take place at Torbay Crematorium, Devon, and later a celebration of his life at The Crown and Sceptre, St Marychurch, Torquay. The Regiment was extremely well represented, It was a huge challenge to get over 150 people into an 80-seater facility but using every square inch of standing room we accomplished it! I would like to thank Len Keeling for organising the minibus down from Gloucester, the four Standard Bearers: Scott McBryde, Roger Smith, Steven Tierney and the local British Legion representative. Also grateful to the six volunteer pallbearers on the day, Eddie Kenneford, Ben Casey, John Davies, Tony Jones, Allan Winchester and Dave Stone.

Chas Deacon the Celebrant held it all together nicely and the two Senior Rank musicians from The Rifles gave a great rendition of the Last Post, leaving hardly a dry eye in the building. The live service video link has been taken down for editing but will be published again shortly using the details issued previously. Feedback from the family during the day was outstanding and made all the hard work very worthwhile. I would like to thank Bob, Sadie and Clair for hosting the day's events including the most welcoming celebrations I have ever attended in a Pub. Last, but not least, a huge thank you to all the members of the Regiment who turned up and made the day such a great success, it was a great tribute to the “Glosters” family and its former members.

Should anyone have missed donating during the day, and would like to do so, the details are as follows: RGBW Association Somerset. Sort Code: 30 99 51 Acct No 00545601 and include “BW” in the description box, thank you.

“by our deeds, we are known”

For those who cannot attend in person the funeral service of Brian Wright will be live streamed;

Webcast order summary

Webcast details for the service of Brian Wright at 10:30 (GMT) on Friday 8th December, at Torbay Crematorium Chapel, run by Torbay & District Funeral Service are as below.

Link:

https://watch.obitus.com/rgKCsM

Username: zaro2122

Password: 643919

Webcast | Obitus

WATCH.OBITUS.COM

Webcast | Obitus

Obitus webcast