First Post!

08/09/2009

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Comments

Gerry L link

09/09/2009 12:10

Nice one David, keep up the good work

ken harrison

09/09/2009 20:00

HI THANKYOU FOR THIS DAVE I ONLY FLEW INTO LUQA AT 10 AT NIGHT LEFT THE FOLLOWING DAY AT 10AM . I HAVE ALWAYS WONDERED WHAT THE PLACE LOOKED LIKE IN THE DAYTIME. REGARDS KEN.

Al Jopling

11/09/2009 19:18

Hi Dave,
Good start to a website however never got a posting to Malta. Passed thru it a couple of times to Cyprus and a fortnights holiday when our kid was stationed there in '77. Hope you get some "blasts from the past" on it!!
Cheers,
Al.

Glyn Lockett link

12/09/2009 21:30

Good start may you have every succes with the site

Oakers

21/09/2009 22:50

Nice one dave, How interesting,great pictures too. Well done and thank you for sharing these memories with us.

Julia Rose

24/09/2009 21:41

Hello Dad!

Good website, hopefully i might be able to add to your collection soon, im sure it will not be malta though! :-( love you lots xxx

Al Hooper

09/11/2009 10:17

This is looking good Dave, spent 5 months in Malta, bit early for you, 1956!!! Was at Siggewi, so didn't see much of Luqa. But Malta I enjoyed. Anyway great site keep it going.

Cherise Gatt

18/11/2009 10:04

Hi! Great website. I am Maltese but am of English descent (my ancestors came to Malta during the war with the RAF and stayed here).

I'm glad to like Malta. I've learned to love it, although there are many things which can be improved upon, obviously.

Take care!

andrew caruana

18/11/2009 13:44

i enjoyed reading the items listed, i was born in Luqa during the war, and im always interested to read about what events took place during that time. good job.

John Saliba

18/11/2009 13:49

Hello! My dad, Charles Saliba, was in the RAF (civilian) and worked in the MT Section Stores at Safi and Luqa for many years, up until the departure of the British Forces. He was RAF through and through and all the family share many fond memories of the time when the forces were here. I remember the Christmas parties that used to be organised for us children, the RAF clubs at Kalafrana and M'Xlokk. Sadly dad passed away in September but he retained the happy memories of his time in the RAF until the end, recounting to me many stories and still remembering quite a number of personnel that he met in the course of his emploment in the service of his beloved Queen.

Bob Croton

01/02/2012 18:48

Hi John. We've never met as far as I know but I do remember your dad from when I worked at Safi and Luqa in MTSS. He was great asset to the section and was the man when it came to getting parts as he seemed to know everywhere and everyone. Usually running around in our Morris Traveller. Joe Mizzi let me know he had passed away, sorry to hear that. I hope you and your family are all OK. Regards Bob Croton

John Saliba

18/04/2012 14:58

Hello Bob. I've just seen your post and it made me very happy. We are still living in Birzebbuga, but it is such a differnt place from when the services were here. I was lucky to grow up with a bunch of really nice British friends and the summers were just one long holiday, swimming in Kalafrana (other ranks beach) etc. Those were the days!

H Farrugia

18/11/2009 14:16

Does the name Simon Sweeney who served with the RAF Luqa mean anything to you or click a bell during your time at RAF Luqa? He's British married to a maltese woman. Today he's retired in Malta.

Joe Mallia

18/11/2009 16:12

Thanks for all the pictures of Malta and some of the pictures during the 2nd World War, I was born in Malta (Lija) and still have some very good memories about the war. I left Malta in 1951 and have lived in Canada ever since, vsiited the island in 1999-2001 & 2008.
Great web page. keep up the good work.

John Daveridge

18/11/2009 16:51

Thanks for the interesting site. I'm sure a lot of people will appreciate the interesting information. I did my service in the RAF between 1960-1972. Never got near to Malta though. I live here now (Qwara) since my retirement in 2007. It keeps me busy researching the old camp sites. By the way I think MTA must be one of the nicest airports to land at. Good luck.

Denis Bartolo

18/11/2009 17:28

Hi All,
Interesting site. my father worked for the RAF for over 35 years and spent most of his time at the Families Office Luqa -
Does anybody remember Joe Bartolo - As a kid we enjoyed several xmass parties and swam at the K- Club.
Would love to contact anyone who knew him.

Denis Bartolo

David Rose link

18/11/2009 18:33

If anyone needs to contact Joe, about his father, let me know and I can relay a message.

John Zammit link

18/11/2009 18:36

Hello Dave,

My father Joseph Zammit was a civilian who was employed with the Royal Air Force as metalworker and he served at RAF Tal-Handaq, RAF Maritime Section Marsaxlokk and lastly at RAF Luqa before the British Forces left the island. His last job was to restore the Gladiator "Faith". I will send you some nice photos. My father now is 86 years and he used to live at Birzebbuga before he went to stay in an old persons home.

Michael F Farrugia

18/11/2009 21:04

Hi, My Father 'Frank C.Farrugia' was in the RAF, he was based in LUQA and later posted to RAF Cranwell of which us as a Family have good memories. His job was that of a Radar Tech. By the end of his service he obtained the Rank of Corporal, I have some photos of him during work and also some group photos. I would like to gather some information so I could post it on your RAF-LUQA Homepage as I'm sure it will bring back great memories to all serving during those days. Unfortunately he cannot contribute t yur website as he passed away in January 16th 2000. But I will do my utmost to help you out.

Michael F Farrugia

18/11/2009 21:09

Dear Mr.H Farrugia, My parents Tessie & Frankie( Late ) Farrugia knew Simon Sweeney, would be great if we had the opportunity to meet him someday

Michael F Farrugia

18/11/2009 22:58

Att H Farrugia
Thanks alot really appreciate, and a big thanks goes to David for such a Great Website !

Godfrey

20/11/2009 05:21

Bob Ewing

21/11/2009 18:14

wish you every success with this site.
I was at RAf Luqa 68 /71 on the Fire section

Michael Hall

06/12/2009 19:55

Found this web site quite by accident. I was at the Luqa Dog Section from June 1971 until Dear Mr Mintoff waved us off in March 72. I lived in Hamrun and loved every minute of my short time on the island. Very fond memories of all the Maltese I ever met. Good luck with this venture.

Bob Laird

09/12/2009 02:51

Just found this site. 3 good years at Luqa with many good guys and some interesting times!. I was part of the reforce in 1972 and left in 1975. Old names/faces were Mike (Taff) Cook, Ken Smith, Jess Pickering, Ronnie Parker, Barry Hartley, John Siddall,Eddie Holness, Maurice Harvey, Keith ? and a couple more who have slipped out of my memory banks. Sadly Maurice passed away some years back but I feel sure the rest are still with us - happy days.
Regards to all who knew me.

Norman Button

05/02/2012 11:21

Hi Bob; just read your comments re personnel. The death of one John Siddal has just been reported on the RAFPA site. Same guy? There is also a photo of Jim Rose stationed at Luqa. Any news of him?

Bob Laird

09/12/2009 02:53

My memory briefly returned to remind me it was Keith Hodgson!!.

Derek Gare

12/12/2009 15:48

What a great site. I was stationed at Luqa from 59 to 62 then again from 65 to 68 and lived in Hamrun on the first tour and in Paola on the second. I was with 39 Sqdn on both tours. I remember with fondness the Attards of Qormi who owned and ran a lime kiln and whos kindness to me and my family I shall never forget.I Look back with fondness to the time my wife and I spent in Malta.

Tom McCarthy

14/12/2009 20:39

Al Joplin, are you that extremely handsome Geordie who was in HQAFNORTH with Taff McCarthy (that's me) and Martin Attwell etc...?

George Pace

24/12/2009 19:15

I enjoyed the best RAF Posting of my life as a young Dog Handler 1969 - 1972 at RAF Luqa. My daughter Barbara was born at Mtarfa Naval Hospital and I have wonderful memories to this day of participating in the local culture of these kind genuine people. Yes I used to shoot Bunnies on nightshift mobile patrols with Sgt Sultana on the Hal - Far airfield, and accompanied maltese friends trapping wild birds. Later on in 1989 - 91 I went to work as Dog Trainer for the Maltese Police at Floriana. Alas I returned back to my home in Lincoln some 18 months later as my dear wife Judy became home - sick and missed the family.I hold and cherish deeply the kind Maltese people whom I have had the pleasure to have known. Johnny Frendo who worked in ground photo section, Carlie Mallea and Joe Buttagieg RAF Malta Police to name but a few. As a footnote we won the RAF NEAF Dog Trials in 1971 with my GSD Air Dog SIMON which I am sure Johnny Frendo remembers.Thank you for this opportunity to contact friends too many to record on this page but what a nice walk down memory lane it has been for me . It beats a night down Strait Street

David Guest

28/12/2009 20:16

Hi, great site, keep it up. I was out there on Nimrod ASF from 1975 to the end.

Colin Pomeroy

29/12/2009 14:24

Really great to have a website dedicated to RAF Luqa - my best posting in 20 years in the RAF. (I was a pilot on 203 Sqn from 1972 to 1976.)

I have written a couple of books on Malta. One, finished last year, is entitled "No 203 Squadron.The Malta Years" and tells the story of Shackletons and Nimrods in the Mediterranean during the Cold War; the other "With All Modesty. The Veterans' Tales of the Battle for Malta" is 100 personal stories of folk who served in Malta, or on the Malta convoys, during WWII. I can be contacted at CPomeroy@aol.com by anyone interested in a copy.

Paul McCormick

30/12/2009 18:05

Great idea well done.

I was in the Dental centre at Luqa 1975 to 1978. Left the service 1996 after many wonderful years anyone out there give me a shout.

Regards Paul McCormick

Bob Croton

30/12/2009 20:14

Just discovered this site and enjoyed it very much, well done. I worked on the fire trucks in MTSS, first at Safi where I remember Joe Mizzi(Clerk). Glad to hear he's comfortably retired (see "memories"). Then at Luqa at the MT section and then the Spec Vehicle Servicing Section near TASF and Air Movements. I've posted a pic of SVSS on Google earth, zoom into Luqa airfield to see it. I was there from July '76 to August '78 and like many guys, ended up with a souvenir of Malta in the form of a wife. 31 years later we still go back as often as possible and are looking to move there when I retire in 10 or so years time. Great to see the old pics and I'll have to try to dig out some old ones of mine to add to the site.

Richard Tree

31/12/2009 12:38

Just found the site ! Thanks Dave. Great memories stirred by peoples photos etc. I was in the torpedo bay at luqa but most will recall me from Ariel players at Hal-far and Manoel pantos I will sort out a selection of photos later

Richard Tree

31/12/2009 19:21

Sorry i forgot the dates! 75-78 and I did know Bugsy ! He was a great panto baddy!
He is i think in the panto photo (Puss in Boots ) on the site

Clive Micklefield

03/01/2010 03:44

Hi Dave, great website. My wife (Trish) reminds me how helpful you were on her flight out to Malta to join me, (25th Sep 1972), (she was struggling with two young children at the time, do you remember?), We have have been back to Malta several times for holidays over the years and it is still one of our favourite destinations.

Stewart McArdle

20/01/2010 10:55

Hello Dave , I served at RAF Luqa 66 to 69
my daughter was also born in Malta, Mtarfa
Hospital .We lived in Luqa village, Goodyear Road.It was my best posting of my 25 years service .Vince Bussatille?, Charlie Malia, Bobby Lanfranco all great characters and a pleasure to work with.Kalafrana Beach hundreds of happy hours spent there.Both my children were taught to swim there.
I hope to return one day other mates have and say there have been many changes but I will always love the old Malta.

Stewart McArdle

20/01/2010 17:16

As I said I have many memories of Malta many I gave to Steve Davies for his Books. But one that has always stuck in my mind was when waiting to have my hand stitched up courtesy of A/D Flash , a Techie was stretchered in from "SUNSPOT" where a detachment of Vulcans were in from Waddo.The Doctor a Flt Lt Stewart a female who had just arrived at Luqa approached the Techie who had damaged his ankle "What have you been upto Airman" "I fell off a Giraffe Ma-am" was his reply .Well her face was a treat to see until the SMO explained to her what a giraffe was.Happy days

Stewart McArdle

20/01/2010 17:21

I meant to ask .Is the "AIRBORNE" bar still going in Luqa village? Many happy nights there drinking the local firewater at 3pence a bottle Marsavine wine (Cannot remember how its spelt) also Chisk and Blue Lable beer,

Yvonne Hobbs (nee White)

22/01/2010 21:16

Hi,

My dad was stationed 1966-1969 and seeing all the photos brings back a lot of memories. Many thanks.

Hector Farrugia link

25/01/2010 19:56

To Mr Steward McArdle. With regards to the airborne bar. Was it run by a certain english man by the name of Mr Booker? Was it situated in the corner of the main Square in front of Victor's Self service store which used to cater for british personnel?

Frans Debono

11/02/2012 13:22

YourComments are memorable Mr Booker has passed away, but Victor who used to run Victor's Self Service is still OK. I hope you remember the Metro Cinema which my father and us brothers used to run and also the Friends Bar which was run by father in law and his son Lolly. I worked with the RAF from 1953 as a clerk and then as An Air Traffic Controller at the end of the British forces in Malta and after with the Malta Government

Keith & Peggy Reading

09/02/2010 13:50

We had the time of lives in Luqa a short stint from 1971 to 1972 and then back again in 1975 to 1978.We lived in Birzebugga on both occasions.Happy, happy times with the Ariel Players and those tremendous pantos.We are best friends with Bugsy & Kath and see them at least twice a year(they now live in Mallorca)and we do remember Dick Tree very well.
Brilliant site, thank you

Richard Tree

17/02/2010 17:57

Hey hello the Readings !!

Say hello to the wrays please and any other Thespians

Chris Howells

03/03/2010 18:40

Dave, thanks for the site. My Dad was on Operations at Luqa from '64 - 67. We lived in a hiring at Ta'Xbiex and I went to Tal Handaq school.

Best memories of hours at Tigne and Kalafrana beach clubs, we kept a canoe there. Tennis at Marsa. Also, being an Air Scout at Luqa, the name of Skip there at the scouts escapes me but he was an Erk and a fantastic fellow who put up with my laziness. Thanks to him I was made an APL. Happy days for all of my family and I. Tho I was a teenager and at just the wrong age to appreciate how lucky I was!

Oh and roller skating at a club on Manolo island.I will try and dig out some photos though my sister holds the familys photo albums since my Mothers death 18 months ago.

Chris Howells

03/03/2012 21:00

Pete Trowbridge was the Air Scout Skipper.

sarah shaw

14/03/2010 21:59

We came to Malta with my dad in 1968 and lived at Villa Cachia above thenaval base at Kalafrana I was 4 and with the rest of my family we enjoyed growing up there.My late father Tom Shaw was a Sgt chief technician at Luqa .I remember learning to swim off the slipways at Kal.My brothers went to Tal Handaq.What a marvellous time to be a kid.

terry hodgson link

26/04/2010 13:24

hey I lived on luqa domestic site between 1975 to 1978, based at raf siggiewi. anyone out there who remembers me

Mary McHale

19/06/2010 19:45

Had a penpal late 50's when I was at school. His name was Bill Ramsey and he was stationed in Malta then. Does anyone know him or know what happened to him. Would love to find out.Lovely site thanks

jim joyner

27/09/2010 00:12

Hi Dave

I lived in Malta between early 1964 and late 1966 whilst my dad was serving as an RAF Air Traffic Controller.

Lived in Tarxien Rd Luqa Village before moving to Depiro St Sliema. Moved back to the UK to RAF Coltishall

Went to school at RN Tal Handaq

I have quite a number of photographs of aircraft movements at that time going to work with dad on a number of occasions.

Live in Australia now and will be revisiting Malta in January.

Coincidently I was recently asked to write a feature article about our stay there for the 'Malta Independent' newspaper by a columnist who I sold a souvineer cigarette lighter to on eBay.

Chris Howells

03/03/2012 20:36

I lived in Malta the same time as you Jim and my Dad worked in the ops room in the control tower. We lived in Balzan and then moved to Ta'Xbiex. I went to Tal Handaq school as well and I was an Air Scout at Luqa.
The aircraft pictures are great, we flew out in a Comet 2, returned on a Brittania. Came home for a few weeks on an indulgence in an Argosy with the return to Malta in a god awful, noisy Hastings. My brother came out one time in a Beverly or, as my Dad called them, a flying block of flats.
Chris

angelo calleja

03/10/2010 13:56

In memory of my father Gerald Calleja who served with the RAF for many years, He was attached to 234 Signals Sqd. up to the 70s.
I have great memories of RAF aircraft at Luqa and Hal-Far.
We'll post some pictures to this great site. AC

Jim Leonard

06/10/2010 14:20

Arrived in Malta July 72, left Nov 73, wife Nancy, our two daughters and I had a brilliant time. Locals were so friendly, lived in Naxxar in a hiring.
Laurie and Cath Godman lived downstairs from us, Laurie was on the MCU.
Worked at GRSF and Dingli Transmitters.

Bob Gibson

09/10/2010 07:00

I was there as a fireman from 1977 until just before the close down, still got my little blue book somewhere. Had some great days and nights.

Graham Croft

26/10/2010 23:31

Have just read through the guestbook...recognised a few names and had a flood of memories. I was a Cpl (Graham Croft) Air Radar Fitter (promoted to Sgt just prior to posting back to the UK) on 203 Squadron from 1971-1974. This included our short 'Holiday' in Sigonella at Dom Mintoff's request. I lived in St Julians and still keep in contact with Ros & Henry Caruana who were our Maltese next door neighbours, and Godparents to my son Keith who was born in Mtafa in 1974. I too was a member of the 'Ariel Players'and it is a measure of the fun & friendship we had when I say that as recently as 2009 a group of us met for a weekend of 'photos' and 'chat'. Those present were: Rob & Wendy Ellis, Foz & Beryl Foster, Dick & Rosemary Nordberg, Janette Scott, Smiley Mildwater.
Good to hear that Bugsy & Kathy Wray had not sailed off the edge of the world.
I shall keep an eye on this site. Well done.

Graham Talbot

15/11/2010 12:22

Like Graham Croft above, I spent time at Luqa from 1971 thro 1974, including 5 months at sigonnella.
Lived at Mosta, Birze and 2 Site Luqa with wife Kit and son Graham. Best tour of my career loved every minute

Duncan MacPheat

23/11/2010 19:17

I am trying to find friends and photos of my mum and dad who were in malta from 74 to 78. I was born in Mtarfa in 77 and recently went back, what a beutiful place. My dad was Ian macPheat and served on 203 Sqd ground crew and my mum was called Heather. I would love to here from anyone. Great website :)

Terry and Lynda Farr

11/12/2010 17:11

Hi to Dick Tree and Keith/Peggy Redding. Fond memories of Ariel Players.I was a
fellow " Plumber" worked at Hal Far and then 203 sqdn 1975 to 1978.
We have recently had a 203 sqdn reunion in the company of the boss Tony and Val King.Most of the sqdn "plumbers " were there and another meet will be arranged in the next couple of years. Peggy Tony sends his love.
Terry Farr

Alan Womack

19/12/2010 00:54

To Dave Rose,

I was in Malta 72 - 75 first on 203, then TASF, and then the electronics bay.

The "Indian" guy in your photo is I believe called Lionel Rajah and was a Tamil and worked on TASF.

Alan Womack

Graham Fairhurst

27/12/2010 18:08

To Duncan MacPheat

If it's the same Ian MacPheat I remember he used to stop the ceiling fans with his head!! Unfortunately no photos. I was in Malta 74-77 initially on 203 then TASF and finally the avionics bay, brilliant 3 years.

Stephen Kemp link

20/01/2011 21:38

as a force's child your site reminds me that I had a privileged and special childhood thanks to my parents and the RAF.

Unfortunately having found a suitable place I also feel the need to announce that my father, Godfrey (Jeff) Kemp died on the 14th October 2010. He was stationed at Luqa between 1971 and 1975.

Now if that is the Salibas from Birzebbuga ? we remember your family fondly. We were sorry to hear about your father passing away. Stephen

John Saliba

18/04/2012 15:15

Hello Stephen. I remember you very well. Also your brother Simon. He was the naughty one!!. I was very sorry to hear of your dad's passing. I remember him very well (and his Simca car) and also your mother. What fond memories you have brought back. Sadly the veranda overlooking the garden has been knocked down, but the fish pond underneath is still there. I think you would remember it. My email is johnsaliba01@gmail.com

John Saliba

18/04/2012 15:15

Roger Pettitt

23/01/2011 15:39

Hi Does anyone out there have Clive Micklefields e-mail address. We used to sing together at The Malta Folk Workshopn at Safi and would love to get in touch with him

Val & David Lang

09/02/2011 22:14

Best posting ever, arrived April 1973, one week after our wedding, David had already been there for 9months. Lived in Mosta, son born in Mtarfa, April 74.
Still keep in touch with our best friends and neighbours Doug and Barbara Cozens. We absolutely loved the Island and were very sad to leave. Posted to Brampton, not quite the same. Love the website, well done.

James Burns

17/02/2011 22:03

HiIwas at raf luqa from 1957 to 1959 i was at the station armoury i am trying to find some of my old mates GEORGE HEEKS who was married a malteese woman ROSS ENTICOTT also RON DEAN also called geordie dean

Peggy & Keith Reading

02/03/2011 16:29

Good to hear from Terry & Linda, we have just applied to join the site and when we do you should be able to get our email details. Look forward to hearing from you.
We live in Metheringham, near Lincoln and are both retired now. We saw Tony King back in 2003 when we went to the 25th Anniversary of 203 leaving. Had a brilliant time. Peggy & Keith Reading

margret

16/03/2011 17:18

hi to all,does anyone remember gladiator club in luqa,me and my friends had the best times of out youthful days there.i made alot of friends there,one that i remember was john bennet,i know that he was stationed in brizenorton.so please if anyone ikes to comment i will be very glad.

George Borg link

08/04/2011 19:21

Does anyone know if the x airforce service men of Maltese citizen ship where entitled for a pension scheme after the war ended My Father was engaged on 3rd April1943 and discharged on the 5th of May 1947 his rank number was 795389 name carmelo borg from pieta he passedf away on the 31st of April 2011 at the age of 86, if anyone knows somthing kindly inform me on g.borg@ hotmail.co.uk thanks

David Bryce

14/04/2011 02:59

Was in Malta with 39Squadronn (Meteor 13s) from January 1956. See us on page 7 of TIMES OF MALTA, April 16th 1958. Marched the Squadron colours/standard through the streets of Valetta with the squadron.
db

Martin Fathers

04/06/2011 04:23

G'day All - What a great site. I was in Malta in 1965-1966 with my father Sgt. Colin John Fathers, Instrument Fitter. Dad was stationed at RAF Luqa being transferred from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
I spent a year there before I left to return to England to attend boarding school. I have great memories of my time there, which have been brought back by reading from this Site. I thank you. Regards Martin

susan mcpoland

15/06/2011 18:14

My family were stationed in Malta from 1975 to 1978. we lived in berzebuga and my dad worked at RAF Luqa in the medical centre.My mum and dads names were sandy and shona miller.Would be great to hear from anyone who remembers them.

Robert Taylor

23/06/2011 23:03

Dear Sir
I have just returned from Malta where i was on holiday visitting friends who have an appartment in Pembroke.I holidayed there in 1978 when working in Libya. While in Marsaxxloxx I saw an RAF rescue launch upon the slip and remember being impressed how well kept it was. The hull was so clean the screws and steering gear pristine. last year we went again to Marsaxx and in the rear of the fish restaurant right at the end of the harbour was a launch which is obviously ex UK services. It look exactly like the one pictured on your website, numbered 1152. I took a few pictures, she is in a bad way and the restaurant is going to be re-developed so she could be broken up. I would love to find out her history and any info. She does look like the one I saw on the slip all those years ago although I seem to remember that one being a dark blue colour. Hope you can help or put me in touch with someone who can. I would be happy to send the photos to whoever would be interested. Regards. Rob Taylor

Ben Clarke

19/07/2011 00:19

Great site, thanks for the memories. I was posted to Malta 1968-71 and it was a delight for the whole 3 years. Seems there were a lot of daughters born at Mtarfa, mine was too! Lived at Birze and we are still great friends with the lovely Mifsud family who owned our flat, we visited them again last year. We used to spend a lot of time at Reggie Dowling's pub, the White Horse, but it's gone now. I worked in the MU at Safi for a year then 2 years on TASF at Luqa as a Radio Fitter. Anyone remember the GoKart Club at HalFar? That was great fun, as was the Rally Club - driving at 50+ along Dingli Cliffs at midnight, must have been mad! Wonderful times, wonderful place, wonderful people.

Mick Cundy

23/07/2011 07:29

Hi, I was posted to Malta and worked at Madelina as we withdrew from Malta for the last time. I had a wonderful time there, making a lot of local friends. I have revisited several times as my wife was born in Malta. I have many pictures if they are wanted and I hope to return again next year. Xlendi, on Gozo, was my favourite place for R&R and we also revisit there. If pictures are wanted I will make up a set on Flickr where they can be seen. Best wishes, Mick.

Mick Cundy

23/07/2011 08:10

PS to my previous. Here are just a few images from my last trip in 2008. I have many more to add soon.
See them here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mickcundy/sets/72157626441622741/

Joe Buttigieg

24/07/2011 15:09

Hi Stewart McCardle,
This is Joe Buttigieg (RAF Police) we served together at RAF Luqa during your tour in Malta, together with Charlie Mallia and Bobby Lanfranco.Any recollection?

margaret

05/08/2011 09:20

pls if anyone remembers or has any photos of the dances held at gladiator club at luqa air force base in malta.i will be very glad to hear from you.this is my email add;zmargaret@ymail.com.

Peter Black

14/08/2011 23:01

I worked at RAF Luqa Air Traffic Control from 1955 - 1957. Would be pleased to hear from anybody who knew me !!

Jim Abbot

23/08/2011 15:40

I remember Mick Cundy from our times in Malta, I now live here and would love to meet up with you, next time you are over here, am going to post some pictures from the last few who were there, so watch this space. Also have some pictures from the Gladiator that I will post as well. Regards to everyone who knows me.

Mick Cundy

28/08/2011 06:11

Hi Jim, I have privately e-mailed you.
Here is some extra info that may raise a few memories.

The following were at Madliena at the end in 1978.

Flt Lt Spencer
Fg Off Pleasant
WO Pharoah
CT Edwards
Sgts Coumbe, Morris, Vines
Cpls Baker, Bonello, Broad, Harwood, Jones, Lavers, Winstone, Zarb
JTs Cooper, Cundy, Brown, Mackie, Rushton, Towse
SACs Briffa, Camilleri, Clayton, Cuschieri, Swindley, Taylor
Miss Debono
Messrs Aquilina, Borg Galea.

Mick Cundy

28/08/2011 06:17

Hi Jim, my original mail to you not delivered.
Contact me on:

mick.lynn(AT)tiscali.co.uk

Terry Courtnadge

09/09/2011 23:55

I was in the RAF Police (boo! hiss!, I know) at Luqa 1967 until Christmas 1969.
Loved Malta. Best venue -The Lantern in Valletta. Wonder what became of colleagues and friends : Paul Barberi, Joe Buttigieg, Mick Galea, Charlie Malia And Bobby Lanfranco.

Terry Courtnadge

09/09/2011 23:59

Hi Stu McCardle - I remember you. We met on a railway station back in the UK.Remember?

Terry Courtnadge

10/09/2011 12:10

Hector Farrugia : I remember the Airbourne Bar in Luqa village.I should do, I spent half of my wages in there. You are right, an Englishman, Bob Booker ran it for years with his Maltese wife - whose name I cannot recall.

Joe Buttigieg

20/09/2011 17:29

By Jove Terry, This is Joe Buttigieg one of the RAF Malta Police, What a surprise to see your name on this site. I aften wondered what happened to you.
Charlie Mallia, Bob Lanfranco and Paul Barbieri are still around. I'm afraid Mick Galea left us some years ago. I will try and contact you by email.

Terry Courtnadge

22/09/2011 16:53

Joe, good to hear. Sorry about Mick, what a lovely chap. I last saw you with your wife, at Gatwick - June '78. You were going home, I was going to Greece, remember?
I left my e.address with webmaster - he said he would forward it to you.

Paul Muscat

09/10/2011 14:36

Hello Bob

Your friend from SVSS, like to hear from you. Hope you and your family are fine. Are you still in the RAF? Now I retired and live in Mellieha. I hope you read my message and answer back.

Bob Croton

01/02/2012 18:41

Hi Paul. I don't often look at the guest book so didn't realise that you had left a message. Glad to hear you are OK and hope you are enjoying your retirement. I still work for the forces but now its the Army as a civilian. I live in Peterborough with Phyllis (Peach) and we are regular visitors to Malta. I think I remember your old address as 23 Melita Street, Paola. Is that right? I've recently been contacted by Colin Brown who was a Sgt at Safi, and have been in touch with Joe Mizzi who was the civilian Clerk at MTSS Safi. Thanks for helping straighten out the Mark 7 that I crashed into the post in the yard at Safi! Remember that? happy days. Regards Bob

Paul Barberi

09/11/2011 19:16

Hello Terry... my youngest son Andrew found this site and was surprised to read my name in your comment. I left the RAF way back in 1969, got married in 1970, had three wonderful kids. Would love to hear from you. Email my son on barberiandrew@gmail.com

Terry Courtnadge

10/11/2011 20:03

Got your message, Paul. Wonderful to hear. Will be in touch via email

Dave Begent

18/12/2011 10:12

A8127006 SAC Begent reporting in lol.
I served at 1151 MCU from June 77 till the Unit closure October 78. Boy what a place to be (Malta) sun, sea & s??. Loved every minute, been back many a time & have my ex & daughter living there.
At last found a sight, on RAF in Malta good to see, keep up the good work & will add photo's when i get a scanner.

Mike Cunniff

20/12/2011 02:14

For Jim Abbot

Hi Jim....are you the same guy that did a stint in the St Helens CIO then Cyprus in the 80's. If so then Rose and I would love to have a drink with you when we are next over (prob Jul/Aug 2012)

Mike

Jim Abbot

21/12/2011 06:45

Mike,

It is me, and I would love to hit base with you, I have tried E-Mailing you twice but both have been returned.

Mike Cunniff

29/12/2011 23:13

Hi Jim

great to hear from you.......I'm also having probs getting my e-mails to you. If you have 'hotmail' you may have been 'cloned' - try opening a different account and running your antivirus. I have loads to catch up with - all the very best mate.

Mike

Mike Cunniff

22/12/2011 03:21

Hi Jim

Having the same problem with the e-mail..,,,,I've had two 'bounced' back. Anyway Jim...fantastic to find you again - try this directly from your e-mail account:

mikeandrose@thecunniffs.orangehome.co.uk

as they say......copy and paste (takes away the spelling mistakes).

Talk soon

Mike

Jim Hawkins

31/12/2011 22:12

Dave, Great site, have no memories of Luqa as a posting, but was sent out there in 79 from REU to return "Equipment'" from the base & elsewhere back to the U.K. Great times as a posting for you I'm sure & all those who went before you.Equally a great but (hard !!! working type) holiday for a ghostly white legged corporal like me. Sad but great times for all. Rgds Jim H. Ex raf supplier

Ruth Markwell link

14/01/2012 19:36

Dad (Chf Tech John 'Felix' Markwell) was based at Luqa (our only overseas posting as a family) from July 1974 to July 1977. The whole family (mum (Betty) and dad, and their three daughters (Katrina, Ruth and Philippa) all adored our time there. Dad served on 203 Sqn for some of his time there, before transferring to TASF, which we kids loved, as we got a few treats (Polos, Cadbury's chocolate, etc.) that came over from the UK on the visiting aircraft hehe.

Dad wasn't awarded a Queen's Silver Jubilee medal when they were issued, as he had done 25 years' 'broken' service, so the lads made him a rather large medal out of a one-way street sign, with a type of laurel wreath round the edges, and the letters TASF down the arrow - with the words 'The Actual Super Fairy' reading from said letters! He still has the 'medal' - somewhere in his garage, I'm sure. (Any RAFP reading this - there is a statute of limitations on 'borrowing' road signs... right?? ;-) )

Following in Dad's footsteps, I joined the RAF in 1981. I did 9 years' service - mostly in Berlin - but though I loved my time in that great city, I really wish I could have served in Malta and enjoyed the lifestyle as an adult that we all had when I was there as a young teen.

Anyone wishing to get in touch, please feel free to contact me.

N Seargeant link

15/01/2012 10:23

I was a cox'n on 1151 MCU 1977. What a dump Malta was. Fortunately I got promoted and short toured and "escaped" to civilisation. A good friend there tho' Colin Larg permanent resident of Mosta. Luckily in 22years I got some decent postings.Malta Yuk

David Rose link

15/01/2012 10:30

Thanks for the comment, first one I've seen from anyone who didn't like, love, Malta although I know some did not like the 'smallness' of the Island. Not bad compared to Gan though I suppose :-)

Mick Cundy

16/01/2012 11:07

Gan! I loved it. There between 73 & 74, Christmas was great! as was the FA cup final night between LFC & Newcastle.
Remember Bushey Nurse's Home?

John Visanich

17/02/2012 17:17

Great website, so many happy memories. I am one of the locals who used to hang around the perimeter fence (still do!), busy taking pictures and logging whatever we see. And there was a lot to see in those days! Well done and keep it up.

Phil Bright

18/02/2012 19:51

My shift was 72/75 - son born at Mtarfa.
have often wonderded why google has no reference to the locally enlisted RAF(M) guys ? I had a WO Sicluna, FS Pace, Sgt Vella and many others.

Sheena Dunn

20/02/2012 16:48

1963-65 My father, Master Nav John P Dunn (wife, Bunty) was posted to Luqa on 38 sqdn on Shackletons (previously with 203 sqdrn at Ballykelly). It was a great time for the whole family and we have only happy memories. If anyone remembers my parents I would love to hear from them. Dad was later posted to St Mawgan and eventually moved from the Shacks to the Nimrod. Sadly, he passed away in 2007 and my mother now lives with me. She is in good health and would love to hear from anyone who knew them. The few names I remember are Jim Drew, Charlie Lusty, Mike Errington, John Curry andJohn Lumsden. One thing, our favourite beach was Armiers and there used to be a little hut in the middle that along with cold drinks, etc, would do a plate of fresh chips for a shilling.I often wonder how long they carried on doing that.

Martin Bonnici link

21/02/2012 11:06

To whom it may concern.

my name is Martin Bonnici and I am the District Commissioner for the South District of the Scout Association of Malta and I have been a Scout for the past 35 years. It my early days I remember very clearly the 1st Luqa Home Scout Group which was disbanded by 1979. it use to form part of the South District after the 1966 districts reorganisation. I would like to come across some ex-members and maybe some photos. Should anyone reading this message who was a member with the group please do not hesitate to contact me via our web site or if you happen to be on the island please feel free to visit us at Floriana IHQ.

Thanks in Advance

Martin Bonniici
South District Commissioner
The Scout Association of Malta

Chris Hadley

23/02/2012 14:27

Hi, My dad, Ken Hadley, was based at Luqa roughly 65-68 as an Air Traffic Controller. I have fond memories as a small boy of the air married quarters and swimming at Golden Bay and Kalafrana. I've
searched the photos but not found him.
Nice site, thanks a lot!

LESLEY BARNARD

03/03/2012 16:23

Hi
My dad Arthur barnard was based in luqa during the end of the war there,and also we were lucky to be sent there again in 61,my dad retired there in in 64 but we left in 66 to returned to uk,i have very fond memories of malta and have been back 3 times,i live in australia now,but have never forgoten my teenage years there sadly my dad pased 3yrs ago ripe old age of 93 .
have been trying to find a friend who was Maltese but in the raf there his name is Paul Calleja from Mosta think he married an english girl ,if anyone know of him would love to hear .
lesley Barnard

george clitherow

14/03/2012 14:23

please can any one remember george clitherow he was stationed in malta in the 1970s thankyou

Rod ( Terry ) Spinks

15/04/2012 15:55

Hi all,was a Marine in 40 Commando RM at St Andrews barracks 1960-61.A few of my Oppo's married Maltese girls and settled in Malta.Dos anyone know of any ex Marines out there please as I would love to hear from them again.

Rob Parry

18/04/2012 19:31

Terry, try here, Once a Marine. Jessie's Bar still hosts the RMA every week.

http://civviestreet.proboards.com/index.cgi?

Jim Rae

29/04/2012 10:21

I was in luqa from 72 to 74 in the comcen i also played football for coms when we won the legue 2 years running anybody who remembers me i would like them to get in touch if they want to that is i now live in York and it would be great if anyone gets in touch

Angela Weatherill (nee Sanderson)

30/04/2012 18:28

This site is a great idea, being an 'RAF child' was great, but as we never stayed in one place very long, we lost touch with friends, or didn't get the chance to establish roots.
My Dad served in Malta 1966-69, Flt Lt David Sanderson, I have loads of fantastic memories of Malta, but as I was young (2-5yrs) they are rather childish! -swimming at Kalafrana and Ghajn Tuffieha (had to look up the spelling on that one!), a stay in hospital with Bronchitis, the smell of Geraniums outside the flats at Luqa, opening of the drain covers and all the cockroaches pouring out!, Dad took loads of cine film - most of which seemed to include planes, helicopters or boats! as well as many photos.We were there for the Queens visit in 1967or 8 and managed to get some of that on Cinefilm. Keep up the good work.

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