'Incredible generosity' sees Carrick RAFA’s Wings Appeal soar above £30,000 mark for the tenth time
The Carrickfergus Branch of the RAF Association’s Wings Appeal has cracked the £30,000 barrier for the tenth time.
A total of £34,000 was raised during the 2025 campaign by the branch which covers Larne through Whitehead, Carrickfergus, Ballyclare, Greenisland, Glengormley to Newtownabbey.
The generous response from the public to the collection made during the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain was acknowledged at the branch’s recent ‘End of Wings Bash’ at Carrickfergus Golf Club in Carrickfergus.
Wing Commander Noel Williams, the branch chairman and Wings Appeal organiser, said: “I cannot believe the incredible generosity and the support given to military veterans by the people within our catchment area from Larne, Carrickfergus through to Newtownabbey. Their support ensures that our welfare work is very well supported in the area. Given the cost of living crisis raising £34,000 is unbelievable.
“At our End of Wings celebration members were saying that they thought it was a huge hill to climb, but that those donating made it an absolute pleasure as they chatted and engaged with those manning our stalls. I’m particularly thrilled with our veterans as most were able to do their stint in the public facing role that Wings generates.”
Branch president and welfare officer, Joe Corr, who also works hard for the Royal British Legion (RBL) with their Poppy Appeal, said: “As a ‘double-hatted’ collector for both the RAF Association and the RBL, I am delighted that people still ‘dig deep’ in support of our welfare work.
"Both organisations play a vital role in providing wellbeing support and relief for our veteran community; in this case those who served in the RAF and their families. I must also thank those who are not ex-service, but still help by offering assistance to manage our stalls, sometimes for several hours.”
Branch secretary, Steve Hoy, remarked: “Without the larger supermarkets that support us, with lengthy spells in their stores - namely Tesco’s in Carrickfergus and Northcott Shopping Centre Glengormley and Sainsbury’s in Carrickfergus - and of course the many other smaller shops, pubs and clubs that support us throughout the year - we would not be so successful. A particular thanks must go to our branch sponsor, Brypol Electrical in Carrickfergus.
“Likewise, the schools and churches (including the Black Santa) who donated so selflessly and generously to assist our welfare work, making it possible to reach £34,000.
“Thank you to the many who supported ‘The Few’ - as our Battle of Britain heroes were known - not forgetting the many other conflicts since, such as the Korean War, the Falklands operation and the Gulf and Afghanistan campaigns that cost our men and women so much.”