8 photos from Carrickfergus RAFA branch’s popular reunion at golf club

Guests included the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of County Antrim, Professor, Colonel, Mark Taylor; County Antrim High Sheriff. Patricia Perry; the Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna and the Officer Commanding 502 (Ulster) Reserve Squadron, Wing Commander Steven McCleery OBE.

In his address, branch chair, Wing Commander Noel Williams, said: “We are the most prolific fund raising branch in the whole of RAFA and that is down to the generosity of the people within our catchment area which is Larne, through Whitehead, Ballyclare, Carrickfergus, Greenisland and Glengormley to Newtownabbey.

“When one couples this with the enthusiasm of our veterans, some of whom are in their 90s, to man our stalls, it all adds up to a splendid annual total. That is why we raised £30,000 for the 2023 Wings Appeal and is why since 2007, when we switched to all year round fundraising, we have raised over £500,000 in the area.”

Speeches from the Dep Lieutenant and Mayor congratulated the branch on its outstanding work, whilst Wing Commander McCleery gave an update on the activities of his squadron and Air Station Aldergrove.

Recently appointed branch president, Joe Corr, said: “Our social functions and regular meetings are superb opportunities for veterans and family members, young and older, to meet socially and enjoy good company.”

Life vice president, Kevin McRandle MBE, concluded: “If there are former RAF members out there who would like to attend our meetings, which are held on the first Tuesday of the month at 7:30 pm in Carrickfergus Golf Club, please do feel free to come and join us. You can contact the chair on 07739 191958 if you would rather to establish initial contact.”