GUESTBOOK

8/9/2009

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483 Comments

Gerry L link

8/9/2009 09:10:03 pm

Nice one David, keep up the good work

mark windsor-hampton

8/1/2014 04:19:41 am

A very interesting web site. and to all concerned, thank you for making it happen . Taking Mum back to Valletta this April 14 - She's 75 now - her and Dad FL SGT Philip Windsor-Hampton married in Slemia. I was born RAF style at the now known medical training hospital in Mtafa. The RAF used to stick Dad nosecone-end of planes - he was a photographer for JARIC - the photo of the Shackleton is a gem.. All the best to one and all for 2014. I've all his photos (seeing he was a photographer, photo paper was often "surplus"...ehum..... ) will try and upload a few soon

Annalisa

2/2/2014 06:43:21 am

Hello,
I would really like to make contact with anyone who may of known my mum Imelda Fenech back in the 60's. She worked for the British army looking after the officers and their families. Mum only recently passed away at 72 and she had some very fond memories. Mum was from Rabat and left Malta to come to live in Australia in 1970. Would appreciate any info if you have it. Thanks

Sue Bateman

21/8/2014 02:12:14 am

Hi
I am trying to put together some memories for my mums 70th Birthday coming up in November. Her mind is not as it was and I know her happiest memories are of the time we lived in Malta.

My dad was Brian Bateman 203 Squadron and I think we were there from about 1974/5 until 1978 when he was posted to Kinloss.

If anyone has any memories of him and maybe my mum Lesley Ann i would be really interested.

It has been great to see all the photo's on here and i plan to raid my mums photo albums to see if there is anything that others might be interested in.

ken harrison

9/9/2009 05:00:50 am

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

11/9/2009 04:18:00 am

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

12/9/2009 06:30:44 am

Good start may you have every succes with the site

Oakers

21/9/2009 07:50:43 am

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

Julia Rose

24/9/2009 06:41:52 am

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

8/11/2009 06:17:56 pm

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.

Derrick Ditchburn

8/3/2018 05:24:06 pm

I was in Malta 55 to 58. Played football in goal and cricket for Safi and played in goal for the RAF Command against the Army and the Navy

Cherise Gatt

17/11/2009 06:04:52 pm

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

17/11/2009 09:44:38 pm

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

17/11/2009 09:49:06 pm

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

1/2/2012 02:48:07 am

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

17/4/2012 11:58:14 pm

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!

Peter Hobbs

9/5/2013 07:45:22 pm

Hi John. You must be very proud of your dad and mum (Libby). I was in Malta 1972-75, Chas was not just a helpful workmate he was a special friend until the end. unfortunately i lost my wife Pam just before Xmas,we both loved Malta and the Maltese people. Chas and your mum took us on a conducted tour some years later.God bless you all all the best........Peter

H Farrugia

17/11/2009 10:16:17 pm

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 12:12:10 am

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 12:51:40 am

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.

Len

25/10/2017 11:55:01 pm

Good morning John. It would be good to meet you. There is a lot of information you are looking for in a few Facebook pages with some brilliant pictures if you’re interested.

Regards

Len

Denis Bartolo

18/11/2009 01:28:27 am

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 02:33:45 am

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

Paul McCormick

6/11/2012 12:00:47 am

Hi I remember Joe I was at Luqa from 1975 to 1978
I worked in the Dental Centre

Paul McCormick

Terry McGhee

8/7/2014 05:44:22 am

Hello Paul. Terry McGhee who worked in the Medical Centre.

Stuart wilson

30/9/2017 11:13:03 am

My dad, flt lt Gavin wilson was posted to Malta and we lived there early 1970s, now in gloucester

John Zammit link

18/11/2009 02:36:53 am

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.

Gary Pearson

16/2/2013 10:08:54 pm

This might sound bizarre but my step-father Steve Pearson served with the RAF in Malta during the mid to late seventies. I lived in Naxxar and during the holidays I would sometimes go to work with him and during the breaks in work I used to plat table tennis with a really nice gent who I remember only as "Joey" Zammit I wonder if this is the same man?

Kind regards

Gary Pearson

John Zammit link

18/9/2013 06:56:56 am

Dear Gary, I am the eldest son of Joseph Zammit. I am afraid (like me) he was not that much fond of sports and so I don't think it was him. All I remember that he used to take me with him to the Services Sports day and I remember him taking part in a tug of war (RAF Tal-Handaq vs RAF Safi). In Malta Joseph Zammit, John Zammit and others like Joe Borg are very common, but I am glad that you tried to see if you knew the person you mentioned. Thanks and best regards.

Jim McMamus

27/12/2016 12:24:58 pm

Hi Gary, I worked with your dad Steve, he was at Siggeiwi and I was there from 75 to 77, I used to play Table tennis with Joe Zammi nearly every lunch time. I vaguely remember you.

Michael F Farrugia

18/11/2009 05:04:01 am

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.

paul mcphail

28/12/2013 07:43:04 am

Michael, my teacher was called Mrs Farrugia Bell and I was wondering if this is any relation to you?

Gordon McLaughlin

2/6/2019 10:19:19 am

Just happened upon this site. I believe that I knew your father As I too worked on Ground Radio Flight as a Comms Tech between '75 and '78. John Tirchett, Joe Abela, Bobby Agius just a few other names that spring immediately to mind. Your Father was a gentleman!
Bumped into Ch Tech Joe Abela in the Falkland Islands in '83 !!

Michael F Farrugia

18/11/2009 05:09:32 am

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 06:58:30 am

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

Godfrey

19/11/2009 01:21:14 pm

Bob Ewing

21/11/2009 02:14:35 am

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

Michael Hall

6/12/2009 03:55:20 am

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

8/12/2009 10:51:24 am

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

4/2/2012 07:21:46 pm

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

14/8/2012 10:07:26 am

Hello Norman,
Just seen this on the site. Yes it was the same JS he suffered from alcoholism for years, I believe he had a liver transplant and fought his illness for years and later lost that fight. A great character and many of his friends and colleagues passed condolences at the time.
Regards
Bob

Bob Laird

8/12/2009 10:53:08 am

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

Derek Gare

11/12/2009 11:48:13 pm

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.

Doug (Alf) Ramsay

24/10/2012 09:58:45 am

Hi Derek I feel I should know you, however my memory fails me. I was on 39 Sqdn from 67 to 69 as a singly. One of the photos you publish is of aircrew and ground crew in Masirah. I remember Danny Kinevy (got his 3rd just before this detachment) is in the port engine intake, and Jack Ibbs he gave me the nickname of Alf as it was so soon after the world cup win. I am the guy sitting nearest to the fin port side. The guy on the opposite tailplane is Herby Thomson we were both engine mechs. Second from the left on the starboard mainplane is firstname?? Guy. After 18 months I was transferred to ASF and worked in the engine bay at Safi and 'moved out' to share a flat with Mike Foley (now WO retired) and Jimmy Turnock MT section.

Stewart Ross

20/2/2017 12:54:43 pm

Hi Doug,
I remember you, Jimmy Turnock (we both came from Sunderland) Mike Foley and another guy who lived in the flats by the round about near the Empire Bar
I lived in Sawmill Street Msida just up from the Eureka Bar with Paul Bolton, Willy Barker, Spud Spriggs, Herbie Thomson, Dave Imisson (RN) Nick Nicolls, Dave Peel, Bob Spinner, Bob Page and a few I can't remember. I was on 39 with Herbie Thompson who shared a flat with me until he married Sarah. Just found this site, I'm in touch with Roger Joy who lives in Spain

Jonathan Sammut

7/4/2013 05:07:56 am

Hi Derek

you dont know me but i accidentally saw your picture of the canberra 39th squadron at RAF mesirah in 1967 where my father is among the crew pictured in the photo which i have a similar one.
My father's name was Cpl Albert Sammut also known as SAMMY which sadly passed away in November 2011. I am writing and asking if you knew him and on the forum there are more pictures posted under the topic 39 sqd.
Thanks Jonathan Sammut.

Tom McCarthy

14/12/2009 04:39:51 am

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 03:15:04 am

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

Ian MacKenzie

19/12/2012 01:28:21 am

Have just found this site. I remember you from NI (Bishops ?) I was a hog-dangler at Luqa (9/60 - 3/63). Visit daughter Alison (in the old MQ's at Scampton - she knows you too) Keep in touch with Mal Crookston (ex Fairford) and his mate (ex- Aldergrove) I'm now 70 and just about to lose my left leg (below knee) (diabetic complication) The rest of me AOK Cheers Ian

Lee Smith

21/11/2014 08:01:21 am

Hi Ian,
I am doing some research on my father (who passed away), he was stationed at RAF Luca as an MP(with Dog) his name was Jim Smith between 60-63 (real name Hylton but no one called him that). We were a young family Dad and Mum (Rose) and Me (2 years old) and my brother , he was born at the Naval Hosp. Thanks Lee

David Guest

28/12/2009 04:16:02 am

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

Jane ODonnell

1/7/2013 11:42:40 pm

Hi David Guest.please contact me if you were born in Malta 1949.
regards.

Jane

Colin Pomeroy

28/12/2009 10:24:13 pm

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.

Mario Attard

6/5/2016 05:12:10 pm

Do you remember Filfla when we went ringing those Kangu with MOS and had trouble returing back to Zurrieq?
Do you still have those photographs about Filfla???
Regards to all those who served at Eng Wing HQ between 1970 and 30th March 1979.

jane buttigieg nee busuttil link

26/8/2018 03:36:26 am

Hi Mr Pomeroy I am Jane the daughter of Francis Busuttil worked at RAF Luqa and Safi as driver during the years of 60 and 70. My dad passed away and he would have been 94years next Nov 2018. We had english friends also serving at RAF Safi Wally and Janet and Tedd. We have lost contact. My dad Francis called Cikko used to drive the long vehicle. He was tall and slim and always with a smile. Best regards and thanks for all those lovely memories.xxx

Paul McCormick

30/12/2009 02:05:37 am

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 04:14:01 am

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

30/12/2009 08:38:51 pm

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 03:21:22 am

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

2/1/2010 11:44:20 am

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

19/1/2010 06:55:49 pm

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.

Fred Hart

27/2/2015 10:48:31 pm

Hi Stewart. I also lived in Gudja Road at about the same time and your name rings a bell. I lived in a small terrace of houses, 4 or 5, all housing RAF families. My wife's name was Sue. Our son was born at Mtarfa hospital, but that was after we had moved into married quarters. Hope you can get in touch. Fred

Stewart McArdle

20/1/2010 01:16:51 am

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

20/1/2010 01:21:14 am

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,

Frans Debono. The Airborne ar now is a Confectionery Shop. I live nex to it. I worked withe RAF as a civilian as a clerk, as an assistant AirnTraffic Controller and then as An Air traffic Controller.

29/12/2012 10:09:49 pm

B est Regards and my father was the proprietor of the Metro Cinema in Luqa.

fx zarb link

25/7/2013 01:07:24 am

hi frans ,those were good days we spent working at the luqa tower .I am from hamrun (saver) hope you remember me. Regards.

Yvonne Hobbs (nee White)

22/1/2010 05:16:02 am

Hi,

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

Yvonne Hobbs (nee White)

21/10/2017 03:28:37 pm

Just as an update to my previous comment (22/01/2010), Ken White died on 5th April this year (2017). He'd been ill for a while with vascular dementia and type 2 diabetes.

Dave Rose

22/10/2017 01:29:28 pm

So sorry to hear about Ken, please accept my condolences on behalf of all on the RAF Luqa Remembered website and forum.
RIP Ken, Stand Easy old friend.

Hector Farrugia link

25/1/2010 03:56:20 am

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

10/2/2012 09:22:52 pm

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

David Green

25/10/2016 03:19:29 pm

I served at RAF Luqa 1963 - 66 and used to live right opposite the cinema on Dun Pawl St. I knew your father quite well. I actually worked in Luqa commcen. I have just arrived home from Malta tonight. After a really great vacation and also meeting a member of the Fennech, family.

Claire Booker

6/9/2015 01:21:52 am

Mr Booker was my grandfather. Robert aka Bob Booker. He passed away years ago now. My father also served. Named Robert Booker too.

Keith & Peggy Reading

8/2/2010 09:50:37 pm

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

Paul McPhail

28/12/2013 07:47:53 am

Keith and Peggy, what a blast from the past. Peggy do you remember climbing over the roof to get to our building next door? I certainly remember you taking me to the pantomime and me refusing to get up on the stage with you. I really hope some one on here can put us back in touch. My dad john is still going strong, unfortunately my Mum Theresa died suddenly in August this year so there have been many days chatting about our time in malta. Best wishes Paul

Norman Sharp

10/1/2017 03:12:16 pm

To Paul McPhail. I remember working with a John McPhail who was a crew chief on 203 squadron from 75 to 78. I went back to Kinloss when the base closed. John was a great guy. Hope he is keeping well. Best wishes. Norman

Richard Tree

17/2/2010 01:57:24 am

Hey hello the Readings !!

Say hello to the wrays please and any other Thespians

Chris Howells

3/3/2010 02:40:08 am

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

3/3/2012 05:00:22 am

Pete Trowbridge was the Air Scout Skipper.

Sue Gavin ( nee Webb0 link

4/4/2014 07:51:48 am

Hi. I was wondering if your sister's name is Gwyneth and if you lived in St Nicholas Flats, Ta'x Biex Wharf, Msida? I lived at no.8 from 1966 - 1969 also went to Tal Handaq and my Dad was stationed at Luqa. Gwyneth and myself became quite good friends for a while and it would be great to catch-up. Wonderful memories of a very happy time.

Leigh Wieland-Boys

15/5/2014 12:50:37 am

Hi Chris, we have "talked" on FB - on reading your message here, I am sure our paths definitely crossed during our time in Malta. My brother & I roller skated regularly on Manoel Island too between 1964 - 1967. I also went to ballet & tap classes there. Dad started up a Go-karting club, but can't remember where that was - but I have lots of slides and will eventually have them uploaded onto a computer and put them on FB!

sarah shaw

14/3/2010 06:59:57 am

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

25/4/2010 10:24:31 pm

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

John Hunter

21/5/2012 10:44:39 pm

hi terry
you might not remember me but does names like jim weaver, jonny mc grantham mean anything they were at luqa commcen and we all played in the football team. many good scraps between the two comms section i remember

Wigg Smith

3/1/2013 04:09:35 am

The names Jim Weaver and Jonny MCGranthin ring a bell. Jim was barracked in with Keith Parsons who, if I remember rightly had a Kawasaki 250 and Jonny Mac had a great big old BSA Desert bike - still with the lot number on it.

Mary McHale

19/6/2010 04:45:35 am

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

26/9/2010 09:12:29 am

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

3/3/2012 04:36:01 am

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

Leigh Wieland-Boys

15/5/2014 12:57:26 am

We flew home from Malta in a Beverley to Lyneham for a holiday .... the worst aircraft I have ever been on in my life!! Took over eight hours, I was not only very ill (one and only time in my life) but was deaf for about three days after!!

But what an experience only an RAF child could have!!

Eleanor Fileding (Bishop) link

16/4/2013 01:17:04 am

I was at Tal Handaq 1957-1959 and also lived in Tarxien Road, Luqa Village - can you remember the number - I'm sure ours was No. 80. My husband and I are visiting Malta in June (2013) and am looking forward to looking up old haunts - I especially want to go around the barracks area and see what happened to the Family Quarters and also visit Tal Handaq!
I wonder if anyone remembers my Father - Sgt Alex Bishop - Quartermaster!! I was only 12 when we went to Luqa a few names I can remember was Ed Bolitho, Big Joe and an Eddie who used to go on picnics with my big sister Mary - I was the chaperone!!! Can't wait to go back and down memory lane!

Robert Fogg

25/1/2014 01:37:57 am

Hi Jim your post interests me as I also lived in malta from 63-66 My dad was a electrician @ Luqa And we lived in paola. My dad played a lot of darts and was in fact the malta open darts champion during our stay there.. Not sure if anyone on here remembers him but he was John Fogg. We lived on Zabbar Rd Paola. 63-66

angelo calleja

2/10/2010 10:56:07 pm

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

5/10/2010 11:20:01 pm

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

8/10/2010 04:00:00 pm

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 08:31:38 am

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

14/11/2010 08:22:25 pm

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 03:17:39 am

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 01:11:01 am

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

Mick Cameron

27/2/2018 02:06:43 am

Hello Terry! Remember me? I was a young Plum on 203 from 75 to the bitter end!

Alan Womack

18/12/2010 08:54:00 am

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

Michael Swift

27/7/2012 02:08:20 am

Hi Alan,I was at Luqa 72-75.Arrived July 72.Worked on TASF.I was a CPL Rigger.Moved to Eng Records in Feb 73.Worked with Taff Bryant.Lived in Birzi 72-73,then Zonqor Marsascala.I believe Lionel-Raja was Sri Lancan. He ended up at Honington.(I was also there).He was not very popular due to"one thing and another"I remember him taking "Domicile Leave"from Malta.He got his"third"at Honington.That's another story???

Graham Fairhurst

27/12/2010 02:08:03 am

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

20/1/2011 05:38:26 am

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

18/4/2012 12:15:13 am

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

18/4/2012 12:15:30 am

graham wallace(wally)

29/5/2012 07:36:10 pm

Hello STEPHEN, I served with your DAD in MT at LUQA ,I was very sorry to hear of his passing.One of our other MT personnel died a while age CPL JOHN SETH, we all enjoyed the good times.
regards GRAHAM

Len

14/5/2018 07:34:55 am

Graham and Stephen. I note you were part of MT. Squadron Leader Beer I believe was the MTO during that period? Anyway just to let you know he passed away in 2011 in South Wales. I believe he became transport direction for Glamorgan CC on leaving the RAF at St Athan and lived in Llantwit Major.

Roger Pettitt

22/1/2011 11:39:40 pm

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

9/2/2011 06:14:28 am

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.

Paul Gladstone

22/10/2015 02:20:08 pm

I used to work with Doug Cozens at Sealand and would like to know how to get in touch. Thanks

James Burns

17/2/2011 06:03:11 am

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

John Hope

13/2/2013 01:12:01 am

I am John Hope and I was at Luqa from 1956 to 1959 in Pay Accounts. Also cashier at the Astra where a guy from the Armoury called Tom collected tickets.

jane buttigieg nee busuttil link

26/8/2018 04:21:33 am

Hi Mr Burns, I have seen your post. I am Jane and my dad Francis Busuttil was a driver at Luqa and Safi driving the long vehicle . He was tall slim and very jolyy. We had english friends Wally and Janet and Tedd. This was about 1957 . They used to come to apub at safi of Louis orWigi.Would love to hear any news from you best

Peggy & Keith Reading

2/3/2011 12:29:45 am

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

16/3/2011 02:18:56 am

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

8/4/2011 04:21:39 am

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

Tom Brown

12/3/2018 04:31:24 am

Hello, are you the George Borg who was on 39 squadron. From Lisa I believe.

David Bryce

13/4/2011 11:59:32 am

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

John Hope

13/2/2013 01:14:07 am

I was in Pay Accounts at that time and did your pay parade.

Martin Fathers

3/6/2011 01:23:25 pm

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

15/6/2011 03:14:08 am

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.

"Barney" Wragg

30/5/2012 04:49:35 am

I was there as Cpl Med Sec in 1972 i/c Aeromed. I was replaces by Cpl Gerald "Willie" Wilson 1972/75. He was replaced by Cpl John McIntyre 1975/79. We were all 40th Entrant Ex Brats.
40th Entry has a web site. We have just come back from our annual Re-union; this year in Malta, 52 yrs after enlistment

Sam Alderson

4/4/2018 06:06:37 am

Susan mcpoland! I remember you at Raf Halton when i had just come back from Malta. You have a sister Julie.

Robert Taylor

23/6/2011 08:03:39 am

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

David Rose link

7/8/2012 03:03:19 am

Hello Rob, I've been keeping my eyes and ears open for anything about 1152 but nothing so far. I've posted your comment on the RAF Mountbatten & MCU facebook page to see if anyone can help out there. Some of them have served in Malta so hope to get some feedback.
You can send me your photo's and I'll put them on the website, crediting you as the owner of course.
Best wishes
Dave Rose - djrose007@live.co.uk

Ben Clarke

18/7/2011 09:19:14 am

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.

sue Johnson

23/3/2016 10:40:18 am

Hi Ben.My daughter was also born in Mtarfa Oct. 1970....we were stationed at Luqa at about the same time as you, what a fantastic posting, although myself and the kids were on the first flights out when Mr. Mintoff wanted us gone!...husband stayed on for awhile, he was "transmitters" mainly at Dingli cliffs...he was/is Les Dash RAF...(ex. Hedgehoppers anonymous drummer...(Good news week)..our final "hiring" was with Nimrod crews in Balzan..Regards ..Sue

Dave Rose link

23/3/2016 01:16:09 pm

Hello Sue, thanks for the contact message and the message above. I've passed on your message to the 203 Squadron Yahoo group so hope to hear something from them. I'll get in touch when/if they do.
Thanks again and best wishes

Thanks to you too Ben for the kind comment about the website, much appreciated.
It was 1972 Christmas do when I did the speeding thing in my brand new Escort Mk1 1300GT, caved in the back end just after I'd achieved 100mph and then hit Zabbar, or rather slewed into a lampost in Zabbar about 0400!

Joe Porter

11/11/2017 06:32:05 pm

I was stationed at RAF Dingli same time as les Dash .i remember him coming to work sometimes in a big French car.It was a good posting there .In our freetime(there was loads of)we used to fossick for fruit that grew around ,or sunbathe on top of the transmitter hall. we used to climb up the transmitter or Recever mast and watch the world go past without being noticed

Mick Cundy

22/7/2011 04:29:03 pm

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

22/7/2011 05:10:54 pm

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

24/7/2011 12:09:08 am

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?

Martin 'Nobby' Clark

18/2/2015 05:28:44 am

I have just tripped over this fanbtastic site and seen some very didgy photos of myself and some very good mates from the happy days at RAF Luqa(1976 to 1978). I was a dog handler at Luqa and I remember all the names you mention, Bobby Lanfranco, Joe, Charlie Mallia and also Mick Galea who you have not mentioned. It is all coming back to me now and what fantastic times. Anyone out there remember me please send me an e mail as to what you are upo toi.

Ron pickering

27/10/2016 07:48:06 am

You know what to say and how to do it. Look forward to hearing from you

Ron pickering

27/10/2016 07:45:48 am

Hi Joe,
Just saw your 2011 comments(long time ago eh?)
Hope you and J are both well.
Drop me a line. It would be nice to here from you

Tony Edwards

15/2/2019 09:25:11 am

I remember all three of you well. 1960 - 62 at Luqa' and last 6 months at AHQ Floriana

margaret

4/8/2011 06:20:58 pm

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.

Mike E ( Commcen Siggiewi and Luqa 68/71)

16/3/2014 03:50:41 am

Hi I remember the Gladiator Club well, two great memories are of Keith Ackerly and his Guitar!!, and one great show put on by the lads, which was a skit of the Stan Frieburg , Bannana Boat Song, hilarious, some great times there!!

Peter Black

14/8/2011 08:01:59 am

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

Jim Abbot

23/8/2011 12:40:49 am

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.

Michael Stead link

2/11/2012 12:24:08 am

Jim. Were you at Luqa in 1978. your name is ringing a bell or is it tinitus. If you were you stood in fornt of OC Eng wing with me one morning having a one sided conversation, ending with the words "i don't want to see either of you in front of me again" we marched out and then you went in to be given your tapes. Sorry if your the wrong one.

Chris Gunn-Malcolm

24/7/2013 08:13:59 pm

Jim Abbot? Now there's a name from the past, do you remember the "room 2" parties with Terry and Gary? I moved out of the room just before a married.

Terry McGhee

8/7/2014 05:48:51 am

Hello Jim, Terry McGhee here. Nice to hear that you are keeping well. Best wishes.

Mick Cundy

27/8/2011 03:11:48 pm

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.

Jusin Barkby

19/8/2012 09:57:42 pm

Miss Debono, I assume we was related to Tony Debono who had Jewellery shops around the island? He was a good friend of our family by the time we left Malta and even went back to visit the family.

Pete Taylor

27/12/2013 04:48:23 am

Hi Mick
Just found this site. I was at Madliena from 75-78, great days full of fond memories.

francis-xavier zarb (frank) link

27/6/2014 06:56:45 am

Hi Pete, those were great times at Madliena.
hope you read this message.
Best regards
Frank.

Tim Pharoah

21/9/2015 09:31:32 am

Saw my dads name sorry to report w/o George Pharoah died in March 2007.have been in Malta trying to find traces of raf Madalena and the whereabouts of the married quarters with little success

F.X.ZARB link

15/11/2015 08:30:01 am

HI TOM, I served with your dad at raf madalena radar.
I was an air defence operator and I am maltese..
Hope to hear from you .
Best regards.

Mick Cundy

27/8/2011 03:17:03 pm

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

mick.lynn(AT)tiscali.co.uk

Terry Courtnadge

9/9/2011 08:55:25 am

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

9/9/2011 08:59:31 am

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

Terry Courtnadge

9/9/2011 09:10:04 pm

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.

Tom Brown

12/3/2018 04:47:54 am

Hello
I remember Bob so well, a sort of 'Set em up joe' arrangement on Thursday afternoons. Along with Charlie Leek who loved to spend all his wages that very afternoon. So pickled was he that when topping up aviation fluids on 39 sqdn he used to progress alcoholicly saying 'Its Fanta be thirsty' , an empty Fanta bottle being his hip flask the contents being of unknown origin.

Joe Buttigieg

20/9/2011 02:29:38 am

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.

John Hope

13/2/2013 01:18:24 am

When were you there. I was at Luqa from 1956 to 1959

Terry Courtnadge

22/9/2011 01:53:48 am

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

8/10/2011 11:36:56 pm

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

1/2/2012 02:41:33 am

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

Colin Parry

4/4/2014 02:33:51 am

Hi Bob remember me....LOL

Colin Parry

4/4/2014 02:35:33 am

Hi Paul ...mmmm retired eh? have Been following Bob's comments

Bob Croton

10/7/2014 05:29:51 am

Colin who? Hallo mate, long time no see. We are now living in Hemel Hempstead. Will now look out for you on here. Cheers
Bob

Paul Barberi

9/11/2011 03:16:56 am

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 04:03:13 am

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

Dave Begent

17/12/2011 06:12:00 pm

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

19/12/2011 10:14:34 am

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

Nobby Clark

18/2/2015 05:31:44 am

Well what can I say and the memories. I accidentally tripped over this fantastic web site and trawled through all the amazing photos of the mid to late seventies at RAF Luqa. It is good to see so many familiar names and a great reminder of the good old days. Give us a shout if you can. Very best wishes Nobby

Jim Abbot

20/12/2011 02:45:47 pm

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 07:13:43 am

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

mick stead

25/11/2012 03:15:04 pm

Jim
Well you old bugger hows it going. my email is mickstead@talk21.com if you get through i will send you my privte email adress. I was only asking the wife last week if she'd like a week in Malta next year as it is my 60th and then you pop up. i am also on facegeek. llok forward to hearing from you

Mike Cunniff

21/12/2011 11:21:26 am

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

Ian Prendergast

31/10/2015 02:52:11 pm

Hi Mike, I believe we might know one another from 39 Sqdn at Luqa. I was there from 1961 to 1964 and was in the same room in the block with yourself and Dick Wakefield. I have managed to trace other former RAF pals over the years but never managed to reach either you or Dick. My phone number is 01706 374179 and if you receive this message it would be great to hear from you. Cheers Ian.

Jim Hawkins

31/12/2011 06:12:50 am

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

14/1/2012 03:36:08 am

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.

Paul McPhail

28/12/2013 07:53:02 am

Hello Ruth, My dad was also a CT on 203 at the same time, his name is John McPhail, no idea if he had a nickname tho.

Ruth Markwell link

28/6/2015 09:33:04 pm

Hi Paul

Apologies for the tardiness in replying... I'd totally forgotten about this site - ooops!

I'm not sure how long Dad worked on 203... I think maybe a year or so? After that, he transferred to TASF and completed his tour there.

I remember going to work with Dad on occasion and having cheese or pea cakes whilst lounging on a huge settee in a garage-type room... memories, eh?

Ruth

N Seargeant link

14/1/2012 06:23:40 pm

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

14/1/2012 06:30:31 pm

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

15/1/2012 07:07:57 pm

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

17/2/2012 01:17:40 am

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

18/2/2012 03:51:11 am

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.

Phil (Taff) Evans - Supply 72-75. link

11/1/2016 01:39:26 pm

Hello Phil - nice to hear about you, have actually seen several of your posts on different sites. Still have a great pic of you from when I walked 25 miles to raise money for a motorised wheelchair for a neighbour in Birzebuggia. As you know I served in the Supply Wing in Luqa, latterly in E.S.G. with W.O Terry Connell? think I have the name right. Left Luqa in 75 as did you, I was posted to Brawdy, where I was promoted to Corporal. Decided that the R.A.F. was holding me back and I got out. To cut a long story short, before I moved to live permanently in Bulgaria I was director of administration for a logistics company.

Sheena Dunn

20/2/2012 12:48:04 am

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.

Richard Tree

14/6/2012 08:36:00 am

One name lept out at me and that was dear charlie Lusty!
I recall him and Meg from my days at St Mawgan as part of the Theatre Club plays at the Cosy Nook in Newquay.

Martin Bonnici link

20/2/2012 07:06:19 pm

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

Martin Shaw

6/5/2015 12:12:30 am

Hi Martin

I was a scout with 1st Home our den was in Valetta near the Triton Fountain our Leader's name was Gibson. We met Roger Moore when he was in Malta, made him an honoured member of our troop. Had a joint camp in the grounds of Verdala Palace early 1968. There was a Maltese scout leader called Leonard from ? Tigne....

Chris Hadley

22/2/2012 10:27:47 pm

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

3/3/2012 12:23:19 am

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

13/3/2012 11:23:38 pm

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

Rod ( Terry ) Spinks

15/4/2012 12:55:42 am

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

18/4/2012 04:31:48 am

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

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

Jim Rae

28/4/2012 07:21:30 pm

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

graham wallace(wally)

29/5/2012 07:29:19 pm

Hi JIM, I played for M.T ,we beat you twice in 1976 but you had gone by then.I was in MALTA 73-76 and played for every side,raf, station,eng wing and of course MT.I think I spent more time training and playing than working, that was of course if you were not on guard duty.We might have played against each other in the early yrs but my diaries dont go back that far.We had a young scot called KENNY POLLOCK,he scored goals for fun,used to be on Rangers books.regards GRAHAM

Jim Rae

23/8/2013 08:58:13 pm

Hi Graham sorry I haven't been in touch but yes we probably did play against each other. Those were happy days eh! got all our pent up energy out. Nice to hear from you try to keep in touch all the best.Jim

Jim Rae

28/8/2013 08:59:25 am

Graham I remember young Kenny he did like his footy did't he a great little player ran me raggid at times but had to admire his class he was very good NO he was brilliant if Dave reads this can you send my mail address to graham please all the best for now.Jim

Len Moscrop

30/12/2014 07:02:19 am

Jim, I am not sure if you are the same guy but did you live above us in the flats at Luqa 2 site?
Regards to all who may remember me.

Len Moscrop

Dave Gibbs

1/1/2015 05:54:39 am

Hi Len, don't know if you remember me but we worked together for a while in Ops Wg HQ and also played in the same ten-pin bowling team, File Tag, along with Mick Gettins, Keith Merryfield, Bryn Roberts, and 'H' Firth to name a few! I believe our paths nearly crossed again at Laarbruch some years later! I now reside in St Paul's Bay, always knew I'd end up back here somehow! Best regards.

Len Moscrop

28/2/2017 09:45:34 am

Hi Dave, I believe it was my Dad you worked with. He is still around and doing well. I will pass on your comments to him. I am in Malta next month if you would like to meet for a coffee.

Regards

Len - son of Len

Tom McCarthy link

26/5/2017 02:49:46 am

Hi Jim, I was in Comcen Malta 72 - 74 and in the comms football team with you, Gill Roddy, Billy Campbell, Hughie Jack etc. I married a Birze girl in Birze in 74 and you came to my wedding, you are in my wedding photos. We are living in Malta now, since 2014. Our son lives in Gzira and our daughter in Lija. I'm still called Taff !

Angela Weatherill (nee Sanderson)

30/4/2012 03:28:29 am

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.

Jacquie Perryman

15/9/2013 05:46:18 am

Hello Angela,
Just wondering if your father might have known John Mackenzie, who was serving in Malta in 1967. We had the best summer holiday there as a family (I was 15) thanks to John.

Nicholle Bennett link

23/6/2012 12:45:12 am

Just taking a quick coffee break and wanted to post a hello

David Rose link

25/6/2012 07:35:50 am

Thanks for that Nicholle, hope you enjoyed your coffee and looking forward to reading an expanded comment. :-)

John Ivens

26/7/2012 12:40:22 am

To Dave Rose in Gloucestershire. I now live about 800 metres from Zonqor Point, on the harbour road going in to Marsascala. For 4 years a group of 3 of us have looked after the Colony of cats near the Pill Box on the Point, which is still lived in by Joe, in the day time, He used to mine the salt pans there.We have all the kittens neutered that are dumped there to keep the numbers manageable, and they really love their life there.
Joe is now 70 and still cycles back to his wife every evening, near Paula. I don't knw if you knew him, but he was a well-known Football Coach.He has been associated with the land there since he was a boy.
Joe HAD a bakelite radio with a wire aerial going up to the roof. That is until lightning struck the aerial and expoded the radio, almost killing him !!
I come from Hove "actually" !!
With Best Wishes,
John.

Robyn Bryant

13/8/2012 11:51:03 am

Hi,
My Dad was posted to RAF Luqa 1949-1951 with 38 Sqn and migrated to Australia in 54 after discharging. I've passed on the website so hopefully he will be able to check it out - I know it will give him a big thrill. It's been quite topical at the moment as I'm getting an artist to paint a Lancaster III on the airfield in Luqa for him.
Thanks for the opportunity!
Robyn

Robyn Bryant

11/10/2012 04:18:04 pm

sorry, should've mentioned his name .... George Pryke.

Gill Hutchinson

11/8/2014 06:33:54 am

Hi
My Dad may have been in Luqa at that time, he was with 38 Squadron as Groundcrew, Geoff Woolnough. I'm waiting for his Service Records to arrive during the next few weeks - I have a few photos dated 1946/48 (ish) mixed with some from Ein Shemer, I can be more specific once his records arrive and I'll be able to trace his past :)

David Rose link

11/8/2014 11:56:26 pm

Hello Gill,
If you've any photos send them over to me and I'll post them in a gallery with your name, or your Fathers name if you prefer.
Any background information to the photos would be great.
Just click on the 'send me photos' link in the photos page or use the 'contact us' form.
Thanks very much
Dave

Justin Barkby link

19/8/2012 09:49:20 pm

Hey, my dad was stationed in Malta from roughly '77-'79. Not sure if he was a Corp but he's called Keith Barkby. I use to remember going to school there first at Luqa then went to a Maltese school. Have some great memories there esp the Beach Club we use to go to every afternoon while we waited for me dad to finish work and pick us all up.

John Stephens

1/9/2012 07:22:34 pm

I was lucky enough to do two tours in Malta, '68-'70 at Madalena, and '76-'78 GRSF Luqa. Loved the place and had great times there with many happy and ,of course, not so happy memories. Anyone who new me, friend or foe, please get in touch, would love to hear from you.

Bob Croton

2/11/2012 06:13:03 pm

Hi John, not sure if we were in the same room in the middle block for a short while with Jack Newby and maybe someone else who I can't remember. Top floor, first room on the left as you looked at the block from the parade "square".

Ken Hawkins

22/4/2019 12:57:51 pm

I was sent out from REU Henlow to RAF Dingli Cliffs to re- install replacement BUHF radios that had been ripped out when the RAF temporarily withdrew in 1971. The UHF radios arrived in wooden crates from the MU with dozens of accompanying Mod kits upgrades. Joe Abela was initally NCO i/c until Sgt Pete Hiscock arrived. Dave Banks and myself were there until we were both promoted to Cpl. I struggle to remember other names, Jimmy Mifsud was one and at Madliena Vic (Speedy) Spiteri and Vivian Gribble.
When I visited Dingli Cliffs in 2016 I couldn't see any UHF aerials at the original RAF site location but I did see that there was now a Radar site some way up the road that is run by the Civil Aviation. I served at Dingli 72-73 and RAF Madliena 74-75 which I think is now houses radios for Police and the Coastguard services. I would be very interested to hear the story on what happened to the RAF Dingli equipment, was it taken over by the CAA, relocated to Madliena or returned to the UK?

Kevin Fiddes

27/10/2012 05:27:12 am

Just found this link. So many pleasant memories. I served at Luqa from Oct 1974 until Mar 1979 and flew back on the last VC10 mentioned earlier. What i remember about that day is the crowds of maltese wellwishes lining the streets all the way up to the Ops Building. The loss of the Vulcan and Canberra were sad events but otherwise the best tour ever

Wigg Smith

3/1/2013 04:21:35 am

I remember a good looking young man called Kev Fiddes and remember the Vulcan incident. If I remember correctly we were in the middle of some exercise when it happened or has my memory failed already (sic). Bad time for all concerned. Fond memories of Malta and go back regularly for diving.

Norman Sharp

11/1/2017 01:08:58 pm

Holy cow Kev. Think we shared a flat in Birzebbuga for a short spell around 76/77 with Brian ?? I remember some great nights at the Safi Folk club. Hope you are well
Regards
Norman

mick stead link

31/10/2012 10:22:32 pm

I was posted to Luqa Jan 1978 the time it snowed.i worked at T.A.S.F. it was a good life 24 on and 24 off. Being a singley was a good experience and living in a block with med-secs, cooks, workshops guys 230 sqdn,and even dog handlers gave you a real insight to the work being done. I remember going down to the Cross-Keys or easy shop as it was known to us for the odd bottle of cisk and a guido burger and chips.i made some good friends out there, but as with most things my name memory isn;t what it used to be. If anyone out there remembers the Calafrana dirty dozen. Most of the photos i took are on slide in the loft but i do have a few of the charity football match we pl;ayed outside the gladiator club.

Jim Abbot

19/1/2013 11:08:03 am

Mick,

Did we know you as "Styx", as I do not recognise your name.

mick stead

27/1/2013 07:45:10 pm

Jim

Not many people left remember my nick name. Yes most people at Luqa new me by that name, the spelling was "STIX" on my corinthea palace T shirt.

Jim Abbot

17/2/2013 11:00:47 pm

Stix,

So nice to hear from you, I have some fantastic pictures of you from your birthday Party, I think at Siggiewi? What a time we had, so great to hear from you and if you ever come back to Malta, let me know as I live here now. Cheers mate

mick stead

9/6/2014 06:00:24 am

Jim, my mother found some of my birthday. I will put them on the RAF book group on facebook. Hope you're well.
Stix

Paul McCormick

6/11/2012 12:17:48 am

8 Sep 2009 – 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 ...

Can anyone throw any light on this partial posting? I was in the Dental Centre attached to the Medical centre at this time. I am curious as to who this post refers to

George Palmer

9/1/2013 07:41:53 pm

Hi Dave. Did you ever find out who owns the decaying RSL, the subject of your letter to the Times of Malta on Octber 13th 2012? What is its current status? I live in Qala on Gozo and could take an interest. Regards, George

David Rose link

13/1/2013 02:22:38 am

Hello George, No I haven't found out yet. A chap called James Schembri contacted me about it and he was going to speak to the Marsaxlokk local council but hasn't got back to me yet.
Thanks for the offer to help, that would be fantastic. If anything comes of it I'd be prepared to fly out myself and do whatever I can. I was never an MCU type bloke but did some maintenance on the Albacore dinghies when I was in the sailing club, and elsewhere around the world in my sailing days.
I'll let you know if I hear anything.
Drop me a line through the 'contact page' and let me know your email address and I'll copy you when I contact James.

David Rose link

14/1/2013 01:37:02 am

Hello George, I had an email back from Paul and, unfortunately, he is unable to help. He has asked the Marsaxlokk local council about it a few times but not had a response.
There are photographs of the RSL on the 1151 MCU page of the website, it's located opposite the hangar that was the Marine Craft Unit workshop and behind what was the sailing club. There's a new building there now which I think is going to be a restaurant.
I met John Spiteri when I was walking through Marsaxlokk and he may be able to help but I have no idea how to get in touch with him. When I saw him he was sitting outside his house on the road from the MCU towards the village.
I did try to register on 'Malta Park' to place an advertisement searching for the owner but registration kept failing and I cannot get a response from the site administrators.
If there's anything you can do I'd appreciate it.

I am going to start a website specifically about this restoration to see if we can get some support,

Best wishes
Dave

Nicki Hughes

15/1/2013 01:35:31 am

I was so pleased to find this website as I have such happy memories of holidays in Malta between 1976 and 1978. I had a look through some of the photos (which I think were provided by Brian Crook) and recognised the one with all the chaps standing on and around the canberra as the same one is in a lovely photo album my Dad (Wg Cmd Howard Hughes) was a given as gift from the guys on 13 Squadron. The album is still in tact and still brings lots of smiles!
For us kids, Malta was a marvellous place to spend our holidays and I remember the likes of Nicky & Kim Duffet, Richard & Katy Thomas. Steven & Mandy G-Evans, Bill Vasey et al with great affection. I spent the summer of 1978 basking on the beach at Kalifrana completely oblivious to the fact that the end of an era that was rapidly approaching. Still, we were very lucky to have been there at all.

I saw somewhere on the website was a reference to the crash in 1978 but the author didn't know the name of the passenger who died. HIs name was Richard (Dick) Marshall and he was a lovely, lovely person who I have never forgotten.

Nicki Hughes

charles mackey

1/9/2018 07:43:22 am

í was also there at this time ás á teenager, í remember Clare Vasey, must have been Bills sister. none of the other names ring á bell sadly.

george palmer

21/1/2013 12:28:41 am

Hi Dave. I've sent the details of the boat to my police friend who lives in Marsalslokk. I'm waiting for him to reply with his findings. Ciaoo. George.

David Rose link

21/1/2013 07:01:50 am

Thanks very much, appreciate your help.
Keep an eye on the website http://rsl1654.weebly.com as I'll update it when I get any info.
I've had quite a positive response from Wira Artna, a Malta Heritage Trust, who will be extremely useful if we can take this further.
All the best
Dave

george palmer

21/1/2013 10:06:53 pm

Thanks all. I'll get back as soon as Carl has any information on the RSL. Best wishes George.

David Rose link

1/2/2013 07:12:12 am

Hello George, There has been some developments but we still don't know who the owner is.
Can you please send me your email address so I can keep you up to speed? Did you hear from your policeman friend?
my email address is djrose007@live.co.uk
Cheers
David

george palmer

1/2/2013 07:46:18 pm

Hi Dave,
I haven't heard from Carl yet. I'll give him another couple of days, then contact him. My e mail is gspalmer4@aol.com. I look forward to the update and am willing to help in any way.
Cheers,
George

Colin hall

16/2/2013 11:26:28 pm

Great site, I was at TASF,in1973 77. I have Been trying to contact Tony Gallon , a great Maltese guy who was the Cpl in charge on my shift at TASF.

Nick McCready

23/2/2013 06:16:30 pm

Memory lane, reading this forum. I am the son of the late Wing Commander RAN McCready OBE (died 1997) My father was the Commanding Offiicer of RAF Hal-far, mid 1960's, and we lived for many years at 'Kalafrana House', now demolished I was wondering if anybody has photographs of the house which stood over looking Kalafrana bay.(the current web site one is poor) I have very fond memories of Malta, not the schooling side however, both the primary & secondary service schools, seemed to get in the way of swimming & fishing & exploring but the weather, and Maltese people are simply the best. I have been back many times with my own children. meeting up with old friends, but its just not the same without the company of my late mother & father. With a tear in my eye, we, always do the pilgrimage to Cordinas Cafe Valetta, the strawberry milkshakes are still just as good as they always were, but sadly without those two very special people. Any assitance with the photoraph would be appreciated. Thank you Nick McCready

Francis R Gregory link

20/3/2013 05:12:50 am

Nick, give me some time, I have a box full of photos which i will go through...............Have a look at Bay Retro ( Malta) they have many old photos.

Nick McCready

25/3/2013 11:03:28 pm

Thank you Francis, tried bay retro as suggested, No joy.

Dave Rose link

26/3/2013 05:21:02 pm

I've had some photos of Kalafrana House from Bay Retro which I've passed to Nick. Simon, at Bay Retro, has been very helpful but he sent the photos to me which is why NIck thinks he drew a blank.

Martin Shaw

6/5/2015 12:01:44 am

Hi Nick

Remember you well, fishing at the Kakfrana slipways, my family lived at Villa Cacchia opposite the gate. Do you know the whereabouts of Vanessa Clare?

Geoff Arnold

17/2/2019 11:34:32 am

HI Martin
I remember you from Malta how is your brother Hewitt and the rest of your family I used to life on the Kalafrana in block C4 all of which is under the free port area now your description of the villa you lived in gave you away. My family surviving are ok but we lost Mum and Dad in 2004. You nay remember as as we had a large Avery of Budgies under the front veranda
Geoff Arnold

Tony Lindon link

6/3/2013 05:56:22 pm

I run a web site for ex-Locking Apprentices from the 100th Entry. We are searching for one of our lost colleagues called Alan ("Chubby") Smith. We know that he was stationed in Malta, with TCW, around 1972/73. Does anyone remember him and, if so, do you have any clues as to where he went from Malta or even where he might be now? He was a Geordie from Newcastle and his trade was Ground Wireless.

Best wishes, Tony

Martin Myall link

14/2/2019 02:07:44 am

Hi, Tony, I was with 38 GP TCW in 75 or 76. Flew into Luqa but we set up shop on RAF Hal Far for a comms exercise in preparation for the RAF Gan close down - there for a 3 week detachment. Do you know what flight he was in LRCF or MRCF?
Cheers
Martin (74 to 80)

Dave Rose link

15/2/2019 03:40:37 pm

Hi Martin,
That would have been 1976, I left Gan in February after closing down the terminal commcen and the whole shebang was closed in March.
It was my final overseas posting after Masirah, Seletar, Luqa and then Gan.
Most of my UK posting history was Boddington, Boddington, Boddington apart from the initial two years at HQBC High Wycombe and a few months at Rudloe Manor.

Brian Kelly

7/3/2013 04:32:09 am

I would like to say hello to all the RAF Malta Police, Bobby Lanfranco Charlie Mallia etc, who knew me during 1972 - 1975.

Terry Courtnadge

10/3/2013 08:18:15 am

Hello Brian, I was RAF Police, Malta AHQ Floriana (closed July'68) and Luqa til mid-December '69. Do you remember a Joe Buttigieg? He has previously contributed to this blog - he may respond ; I met him and his wife during a holiday, last September, he keeps in touch with Bob and Charlie.

Brian Kelly

11/3/2013 05:37:35 pm

Greetings from British East Reading Terry. Yes I do remember Joe and the others. All nice friendly guys. I last saw Charlie Mallia at Upavon in the 70s when he was MT at another station. Thanks for your message. I saw the AHQ Floriana on the way, by sea, to Aden in '62 when the trooopship docked for a few hours. My friend Bill Barrass RAFP was there.

Yvonne Hobbs (nee White)

11/3/2013 09:18:43 am

Further to my earlier post (in January 2010), I meant to say that my Dad's name is Kenneth R White and he worked in Air Traffic Control. We lived in the village for a while (a flat in School Street) and then moved into the family quarters. Thoroughly enjoyed the time we were there and the only time I got a decent tan without burning. Regards, Yvonne

Brian Kelly

14/3/2013 09:44:44 pm

Hello Terry. I did reply to you message but it ha not been shown. Yes I do remember Joe but Charlie Mallia was on my shift and I saw him again in the 70's at Upavon. He was visiting from another station as an MT driver but was minus his 2 stripes. I was en route to Aden via troopship in 1962 and called into Malta. I visited Floriana due to my friend Bill Barrass being there.Thank you for contacting me.

David Rose link

16/3/2013 03:34:26 am

Apologies Brian, I hadn't checked for comments for the past couple of days. Should get informed of new comments being left but something wrong with the notification process.

Brian Kelly

16/3/2013 06:14:20 am

Greetings David. You are doing a splendid job with the site, which I appreciate, so you did not need to apologise. I trust your daughter is fine and continuing her fine work.

David Rose link

17/3/2013 05:49:52 am

Thanks for the very kind comments Brian, daughter has just arrived back from the States. She's having a whale of a time - Al-Udeid, Afghanistan, Norway, Kenya, States. And I left because there was nowhere left to go abroad!

Ryan Davies link

18/3/2013 07:18:25 pm

My grandad served in Malta sometime in the 60's, apologies that I can only be quite vague, he served with no.38 squadron, flying with Avro Shackletons and Avro Lancasters, his name was Cedric Coleman.

Dave Rose link

19/3/2013 07:08:29 am

Hello Ryan, Is your Grandfather still alive? I've sent a message to the 203 Squadron Yahoo group, they flew Shackletons and Nimrods (and lots of other stuff before then!).

Sheena Dunn

20/3/2013 12:32:29 am

Ryan,
My father served as a Master Nav with 38 Squadron in Malta from March 63 to Sept 65. Since you mention Lancasters I think your grandfather may have been there earlier as it was all Shackletons during our time there. My father died a few years ago but I asked my mother if she remembered a Cedric Coleman but she did not know the name, Sorry.

Francis R Gregory link

20/3/2013 05:09:41 am

Your link has just been passed on to me and I am truly impressed and I will go through it tomorrow line by line, photo by photo.For your guidance I was in the SAR unit from 1979 to 1988 but left to start my own business at the Airport. I spend 10 Years as a Divisional Commander with St John Rescue Corps as an instructor. I retired last May but when winter came i went crazy so I was given a part time job with MIA as assistant to the Commander and marketing of fire fighting courses.I am stationed at your former place now I would appreciate if I could use some of the photos as I intend to find a room and set up a small museum. Regards Francis. PS If I can have them in a larger format even better. Good night and we miss you all.

David Rose link

21/3/2013 12:41:25 am

Hello Francis, thanks for your kind comments and your interesting history.
Yes, I don't think anyone would object to you using photographs for your museum project, please note the name of the person that owns them in the gallery (they are all grouped by name) and mention this when the photograph is displayed.
There's a few old fire fighters on the website, and association discussion forum.
You might also like to see my other site about the attempt to get one of the old marine craft launches restored in some way. http://rsl1654.weebly.com

Paul McCormick

22/3/2013 09:13:57 pm

I was at Luqa from 1975 to 1978. Worked in the dental centre had a wonderful tour and met some wonderful people. I went back last year for a holiday the place has changed a lot but still lovely people with a warm welcome

Karmen

27/3/2013 06:44:13 am

I've loved looking at your website - especially finding pictures of my Dad (who was based at Luqa from 1972/73 to 1978 - and who later passed away in 1989).

Thank you!

Bill Kirk

10/5/2013 12:37:33 pm

Served with 203 sqn crew 3 from 1974 to 1978. One of the highlights was in Dec '77 when we were the SAR crew scrambled to look for survivors of the "Queen of Peace". Happy to say that we found them but, sadly, one had died. I was also one of the crew on the last Mk1 Nimrod to leave the island. Many happy memories of the island and I've been back a few times since then.

Ray Barber (Ali)

18/5/2013 01:59:03 am

I went from Henlow to install HF radio equipment c.1968. We were there for almost 6 moths and had a great time. We worked all over the island. Luqa, Safi, Siggiewi and others. I played in a waterpolo tournamant for Siggiewi and we lost in the finals. Keep meaning to go back for a holiday.

Elaine Whalley (Parry)

22/5/2013 04:16:31 am

My dad was posted to Malta 1976-78 (Keith Parry). We lived on Luqa village, New Street, across the road from the bakery. As children we had a fantastic time and this website brought back wonderful memories, especially when looking through the photos I saw one with my parents on (posed by Mick Cundy). Thank you

John Heaton

23/5/2013 03:26:54 am

I was at RAF Safi 1953 to 1956 I was just looking for anything about Safi nothing, but then tried Luqa. Great to see so many with happy memory's of Malta. I was in the Armoury we were servicing Lancaster's then went on to Shackleton's. A great website, don't have much success in finding friends from Safi during 53-56
Thanks John Heaton

David Rose link

23/5/2013 07:08:03 am

Hello John,
You could post a message in the 'where are they' section of the forum. http://raf-luqa.lefora.com
If you would like to register I'll watch out for your registration request and approve it as quickly as possible.
You might like to browse around the forum anyway, lots of interesting discussions on there.
Also on the website there's some old photographs.

You might also like the photos on the Bay Retro facebook page, if you click on the 'like' button you get a few great old photographs each day.
https://www.facebook.com/bayretro?hc_location=stream

Tom Holt

1/11/2015 10:55:46 am

I was in raf at safi 1953to 1955 I captained the cricket team also played in raf Malta team against army and navy I don't see many on line from my period I should know him cheers Tom

Jane buttigieg nee Busuttil link

27/8/2018 03:07:15 am

Hi Mr Heaton I saw your post.I am Jane daughter of Francis Busuttil called Cikko was in RAF during your period of time.He was a driver and mechanic. He was tall thin and always joking. Perhpas you know him justlet me know pls. He passed away at 66 28 years ago.Miss him so much. Best regards to you and your family.

Ken Slide

30/5/2013 03:52:05 am

I came from BK H & R with 203 to Luqa 1969
Great site, brings back many good memories..

Marty King

30/4/2015 09:18:17 pm

Well I'm blowed - the FAMOUS Ken Slide who proudly did a few days in Luqa's 'Main Gate Hotel' (Guardroom Clink) for doing a 'Zulu Warrior'; if memory serves it was in the Malta Hilton and 'twas a Bishop in the audience who complained!! AND you got your own Headlines in the Daily Mirror!!!
p.s. I was in the next room to you Mate in Block-247?, along with Dave Gregson & Brian Hutchinson - and a 4th young lad I can't recall. Hope you're keeping well Ken

Marty King

30/4/2015 09:58:26 pm

......further to my previous 'reply', which contains an ooopps. Just remembered Ken, we were ground floor-left, first 2 rooms (I think) of Block-245 - the first one on the left of the square. Block-247 was where us Guard-of-Honour wallahs kept our 'Parade Kit'.....happy days. Last one to Kalafrana Beach Club buys the Cisks & Hopleafs!!

Bill Clark

20/10/2017 02:52:26 pm

Hi Ken, remember me from 203. Shared a room with you in the block. Also remember Sid Ball, Scotty Mathieson and Willy Wombat. Last time I saw you, was when you were posted back to Kinloss

maria page ( was muscat )

31/5/2013 09:34:24 am

i remember the gladiator club on a thursday and saturday night had some great nights out there between 76 and 78 i lived in burmarrad from 69 till 78

margaret

9/6/2013 05:41:22 pm

hi i came across your comment on this sight,i too use to go to gladiator club,we also had and met some fantastic people there,im writing this to ask youm please if you have any photos of the club can you send them on,i will be very glad,maybe i will see some of my freinds.i am dying to know what happened to them. thank you

Bob Gibson

6/6/2013 02:26:02 am

Hi all. An ex fireman that was there until shipped out just before the final hand over, I was one of the last three firemen to leave the island.Had a great time there especially getting smashed in Sliema.

Bob Jones

11/6/2013 05:58:19 pm

I served with 39sqnbetween 1960-1962 with Clint Talbot, Jay Gardner,Tony Spiteri,Joe Demech. I am in Malta at the moment at the family flat in Marsascala.i would be pleased to here from anyone who may know us

Tony Beaman

31/12/2016 03:19:43 am

Dear Bob - Are you the Bob Jones originally from Prescot, Near Liverpool.? I was a photographer in 39 Squadron from late 1958 until 1961. Demobbed in 1963 and after 20 years in the family business living in retirement in Scotland.

Brian Drew.

15/7/2013 09:35:47 am

Posted to Luqa April 1956, first RAF Police Dogs on the island. Had a really wonderful time. Loved the people and made many friends. Have been back a number of times since and changes have happened, not always for the best. Met my future Father-in- Law, he was with 39 Sqdn. NF13 Meteors. Added bonus, married his Daughter who was with the family at Luqa. Lovely memories.
Brian Drew.

Brian Kelly

26/7/2013 06:28:18 am

Hello Brian Drew. You were in lovely Malta whilst I was a young cadet in the Portsmouth City Police, (what good days they were) I enlisted in the RAF during Sept 56 for 3 years, intending to go back as a PC in '59 but alas I was under height and remained in the RAF Police until 1978. I served in Malta from '72 - 75 and lived at Birzebuggia. I certainly enjoyed my time there. I did intend to be a dog handler but whilst at Netheravon there were too many applicants but insufficient dogs so I dipped out. How long did you do? If you read this David I trust you daughter is still enjoying life.

Dave Rose

27/7/2013 01:06:56 am

Thanks Brian, yes, Julia is enjoying her career in the RAF Police, she is on the Tactical Provost Squadron and absolutely loves it.
Nice to see people getting in touch through the website.
And yes, I see all of the comments because I have to approve them before they can be published.

Mary Beecham

7/8/2013 05:44:15 am

I am the Mary of which John Stephens (now my ex-husband) spoke. I live in Malta and have done for four years. I would love to get in touch with anyone from those days.

paul smith

8/8/2013 07:55:08 am

Hi just wondered if anyone remembers my late Brother , he was stationed in malta luga , around late 70s for 3 years of his 12 year service ,he was a photographer & i think he was on the canberra plane . i have some photos somewhere & if i find them i will share them . his name was John gladtone Smith. .. thanks paul.

David Rose link

8/8/2013 06:46:08 pm

Hello Paul,
I didn't know your brother but there is also a forum where I have a section for 'Where are they now' so I'll post something in there.
Photographs are very welcome and if you send them to me I'll post them, in your name, in the photo galleries.
Link to my email address is at the top of the page in the photo galleries.

paul smith

8/8/2013 09:30:43 pm

Hi david yes thank you for reply , oh his middle name should read Gladstone .. not gladtone :) Yes i will post photos if i can find them . i seem to remember they were slides . he had a ginger hair & wore glasses . its great that you have taken the time to set this site up , hopfully someone might remember him , he was a very nice & funny intellagent kind man , John lost his battle with cancer about 25 years ago ( i miss him so much ) , his last job was for M.O.D , i remember he did a set of photos for a display at Hendon Aircraft Museum , a place he took me to when i visited him from yorkshire . He lived at Edgeware Hillingdon . regards paul

paul smith

8/8/2013 09:50:03 pm

Wow , i have just read the info on R.A.F malta accomodation which i found very interesting and informative , i now have a insight as to how my late brother ( John Smith ) lived when stationed there in 70s for 3 years , & i also now know the sqdn he was with , it was the 39th canberras .. thanks to the guys who find the time to do this . paul .

FRANCO CASSAR

1/11/2015 01:42:41 pm

HI PAUL..THIS MAY BE A LONG SHOT BUT MY DAD SAC SUNNY CASSAR MAY HAVE WORKED WITH YOUR BROTHER...I REMEMBER WE VISITED A JOHN SMITH AND HIS WIFE AND POSSIBLY TWO CHILDREN,,,,THEY LIVED IN MOSTA. WHAT I REALLY REMEMBER IS THAT HE HAD A FANTASTIC BRIGHT YELLOW FORD ESCORT MEXICO IN THE GARAGE.....WAS THAT YOUR BROTHER? REGARDS

paul smith

14/11/2015 03:52:46 pm

Hi Franco , no im sorry to say it would not have being my brother as he was not married at the time he was in Malta , but thank you for the info . i have found a photo of him & a friend stood in front of a hunter but im not sure where it was taken so any info from anyone would be great . thanks , i will try to post the photo regards paul

franco cassar

15/11/2015 12:51:37 am

Thanks Paul..never mind! Hope someone turns up that knew him. regards

Gino Galea ( Malta ) link

13/8/2013 03:42:26 am

This site is an indeed an excellent initiative! I am proud to be Maltese ...my late dad Joseph A Galea used to work with the Royal Air Force in Luqa till 1977 at the General Engineering Flight! Good old days indeed.. a bit of nostalgia...I have many many beautiful childhood memories of the British services here. I can still remember The heroes of the 13 Squadron Canberras and the 203 Squadron Nimrods.. both squadrons based here at RAF Luqa. Yes,we were very sorry to sea you all going.. but Malta had to move forward and the past thirty years confirmed all this. However as a child, I can still fondly remember the Christmas parties at RAF Siggiewi, RAF Hal Far, RAF Luqa and of course.. I cannot ever forget dear old BFBS Malta broadcasting from sunny Floriana ! Who can ever forget the impeccable voices of the late DJ Tommy Vance..and his unique Top Twenty Shows...or our friend Richard Astbury...closing the station with the last post, the God Save and our Maltese national Anthem? How can we forget the 'sounds maestro 'Mr Alan Clough, Richard Caperon, John Crabtree and the rest of the team?
Indeed very special days... I really hope that they are all in good health and hopefully in high spirits ! As a Maltese myself I would just say...'Yes the maltese after our Independence from Britain in 1964..we also gained full sovereignty in March1979 however we loved the British, our parents and grandparents proudly fought hand in hand with the British to keep Malta and probably Europe itself...FREE from the enemy...

Truly, all the 'eyes of the world' were watching Malta fighting bravely to give hope to a free Europe that we know today. Our maltese fathers, together with the brave British heroes at the time fought so gallantry fought the dark years of World War II. They did just that so successfully that eventually such a triumph paived the way to what we know today as' free Europe'..That was indeed a truly majestic contribution by a tiny island by the name of MALTA at that time!! The historians confirmed all this since Malta was the only unconquered spot in the whole of the Mediterranean and North Africa.. still free from Nazi occupation. That is the integral part that Malta played in today's free Europe.

In the midst of WWII such gallantry has been confirmed by King George himself when he visited Malta, particularly to award the GEORGE CROSS to the proud Maltese people. It is still there flying majestically on our national flag ever since!

Our 'ancestors' loved and enjoyed working with the British Services here in Malta. We are always looking forward to see you britsih people here as our priviliged tourists! We also welcomed many members of the British Royal Family here many many times... including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth who also honoured us by staying here in a local village called Guardamangia...during her childhood years. WE still look forward to continue such a strong relations with the British people of course. May long live the special ties between the two countries... We still continue to look forward to see you here in Malta for that ever important Cisk Lager while holidaying here by the sea! : ) May God bless you all !

Terry Courtnadge

22/8/2013 07:52:32 am

Gino,
Malta was deservedly awarded the George Cross on 15th April, 1942 but the more perceptive might have known that there was worse to come very soon afterwards with supplies of almost everything not least food and fuel down to almost nil. Just four months to the day later, maybe the less faint hearts allowed themselves a brief sigh of relief with the arrival of SS Ohio and the other ships in a convoy that saved Malta, remembering that well over half of the vessels were sunk on voyage, but also incredibly meant that North Africa was won after a fierce battle and less than a year later, the invasion of Sicily. Without brave and gutsy little Malta, all would have been lost.
HM The Queen spent several months in yes, Gwardamangia between 1948 and 1951 not as a child but a Navy wife! And she still maintains cherished memories of her life in Malta.

Brian Kelly

14/8/2013 06:47:10 pm

Good morning Gino. Thank you very much for your kind write up which I read with deep interest. I served in Malta from1972 - 1975, living in Birzebuggia, and really enjoyed my 3 years among such friendly people. We have a splendid TV history channel which quite often features Malta during WW2. I am particularly interested as my father who was in the Royal Navy was involved in the Malta Convoys. This featured during the last 2 weeks.. One of my best memories is standing outside the guardroom at.Luqa, when I was finishing a night shift, as your radio station opened for the day with a different version of Ava Maria each day. Thank you

Ggary Armitage

11/9/2013 05:42:18 pm

This has brought back some great memories. I was at 840 SU, RAF Siggiewi, 1975/76/77. Recognise some people from photos, Dave Guest and Jim Abbot. I have started a facebook page "The RAF in Malta"

Evan Parry

5/2/2014 01:41:28 am

My dad served there as well about the same time John (Taff) Parry who sadly passed away 16 years ago

Evan Parry

5/2/2014 01:43:04 am

Jacquie Perryman

15/9/2013 05:39:23 am

Hello, I just wonder whether someone might remember a Forces Beach Club on the rocks in 1965. Our family holidayed in Sliema and John Mackenzie (I think in the RAF) took us to this club where many people dived off the rocks.
One of the star divers was a Victor Kaslik whose son Pete and I became friends (we were about 16). They lived in Hayling Island, I believe at that time.
I would so love to see pictures of that place but cannot find any reference to it on the internet. If anyone remembers it, or indeed, John Mackenzie, Victor Kaslik or his son, do please get in contact.

Archie carter

16/7/2014 08:38:37 am

Think you are talking about Manoel Island opposite Sliema. When I was their in the early 60s it was the naval swimming area with a line of rafts about 100 yards out that you could swim to.Their was also a big social club which had new films every week and my favourite as a kid was roller skating on the tennis courts to music over the loudspeakers. What was the swimming area is now a marina.

P Klitofsky

3/11/2013 11:08:01 pm

I was stationed at RAF Luqa from 1957 to 1959 and worked in the armoury and then the bomb dump.I returned on detachment with 16 Squadron in the 60's.I remember a Nigel cotton who was bestman at my wedding but have lost touch.Would love to return if I can.

Peter Klitofsky

5/11/2013 04:24:41 pm

A few names from my time at luqa if anyone remembers.Ross Enticot,Burt Oakes RAFP Dog handler,Ch/Tech Doyle,Cpl Johnson,

Mick Stuart

7/11/2013 08:52:04 am

I served on 39 & 13 Sqns (Canberra PR9s) between Oct 68 to Oct 71. I was a JT then Cpl Rigger. I remember working with some Maltese guys on the Sqn. (Victor?) Delceppo, Tony Galan, (Joe)? Camilleri. If any of those guys see this I'd love to see some pictures of our time there if they have any..

Dave Rose link

8/11/2013 03:42:44 am

Hi Mick, There's a 'Where are they' section in the discussion forum where you can post people's names. I'm not sure that people come back to the guestbook very often after they've made their own comment but the forum has been quite active.
Cheers
Dave

Victor Delceppo

14/8/2015 05:52:28 am

Hi Mick nice to hear from you.
I have a photo of 39 Sqdrn will scan it and publish n this site

Victor Delceppo

14/8/2015 05:54:20 am

Victor Delceppo

14/8/2015 07:24:46 pm

Hi Mick, yes you're right my name is Victor, nice to hear from old mates. I happen to find this site because I happen to think of Tony Galan and wanted to know what happened to him. I googled Tony Galan ex RAF Malta and up came this site. I will be sending some photos of 39 (PR) Sqd..
One taken in 1966 (39 Sqdr) another two in 1976 & 1978 ASFCanberra.
Would like to hear from you.

Victor Delceppo

17/8/2015 03:29:42 pm

Hi Mick, it's Victor Delceppo. Good to hear from you, how are you ok? I have found this site because I wanted myself to contact Tony Gallan, has been years since I saw him amazing in such a small island.
I have just sent some photos but have sent them as photo copies David wants them jpeg, I will sure try.
Would love if you sent me an email with perhaps a photo/s of you etc

Michael JM Robinson link

8/11/2013 03:24:42 am

Served at Luqa 1950 to July 1952 SAC 2479882 Air Traffic Control Ops Clerk.As others have said many memories have been roused.One in particular the Royal Flight Home in February1952!Luqa wasinvolved although She landedat El Adem.It happend during my watch

George Borg

12/11/2013 09:23:55 pm

CAN YOU PLEASE SEND ME A PICTURE OF MY FATHER AN X SERVICE MEN IN THE RAF TAL HANDAQ MALTA RANK NUMBER 795389 DISCHARGED ON THE 5FT OF MAY 1947 AND ENGAGED ON THE 3RD APRIL 1943 HE WAS FROM PIETA TODAY HE PASSED AWAY. SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY WHILE IN THE AIRFORCE KIND SEND IT TO THE EMAIL ADDRESS, GOOD AND THANKS

Bob Marsden

22/11/2013 01:35:31 am

Hi , visited you guys many times with the Mountbatten survey team between 1973 to 1977 , I was a Ch/Tech Elect , came out with WO Gwillam and two other guys , marine fitt.& shipwright , envied you guys .

Steve Saunders link

30/11/2013 05:33:57 am

Interesting site found it via Wikipedia.had three years doing my shift at Luqa fire section 73 to 76 will delve through my many photos should find something of interest and send then on.
Steve saunders.

warren glen-gallo

7/12/2013 07:10:54 am

What a blast from the past!! As a young airman spent 1977 to the very last VC10 on the Movements Sqdn at Luqa. Sun, Sea, Cisk and happy memories!!!

Time to dig out some of my old photos I think <@@>

Brian Kelly

8/12/2013 03:15:00 am

Hello David. Trust you are well. Thought I would wish you an enjoyable Xmas. How is Julia doing?

Brian

Paul McPhail

28/12/2013 08:12:47 am

Thanks for providing this great website. I went to malta in october 1974 with my Parents John and Theresa and my sister Jacqueline.
My memories include living upstairs from Pam and Barry Dove in Birzebugga, Barry teaching me to swim at Kalafrana beach club. Peggy and Keith Reading, I have fond memories of you too. Peggy trying to coax me onto the stage at a pantomime and having bbq's on the roof with you and my parents drinking sherry from demijohns from cyprus.

Other random memories are of the anticiapation of dad's return from a trip to the uk because he was bringing home Clotted Cream.

Other people I remember are Diane and Dave Friend ( I still have the JPs lotus racing car you gave me at the airport in 1978),
Also Lill and Ron Draper, I think they were in Forres before we all went to Malta. I think they had a daughter Margot and another Fiona, one of them is still in malta i think.

If anyone has any photos of me or my parents please get in touch or if you have any memories and would like to catch up please do so. I know my dad would love to hear from anyone that remembers him and Its unfortunate that my parents never knew there was a reunion for I am sure they would have been there with you all.

Best wishes to everyone for the New Year and my thoughts are with those of you who have lost friends, colleagues and family this year.

David Rose link

28/12/2013 08:38:24 am

Thank you very much for your kind comments Paul. I've forwarded your information on to some people and hope you are successful in contacting some old friends of you and your family.
Best wishes
Dave

Simon Scales

30/12/2013 04:47:55 am

Hello my father was Eric Scales retired Squadron Leader. He was based at RAF Luqa in the 1950's early I believe. He flew the Shackleton's and Lancasters as well. He sadly passed away on 14th Dec 2013, his funeral is on 6th Jan 2014. Does anyone remember him? Thanks

Evan Parry

5/2/2014 01:37:12 am

I never served in Malta but was there with my family. My dad was John ( Taff ) Parry who passed away 16 years ago.As a kid my brothers and i had a great time

Dave Gibbs

6/2/2014 07:32:52 am

Have just found this site - I served at RAF Luqa from 1972-75 in Ops Wg HQ (I was an SAC Clk sec at the time). My boss was Wg Cdr Tinley together with Sqn Ldr Marwood, Flt Lt Humphreys-Evans and my old friend Sgt Matt Beattie. I have to confess that I do not recognise any names on this site from the same era as me but I would be interested to find out if anybody out there recognises mine!

Bruce Hannant

13/2/2014 06:01:12 pm

My father served in Malta from 1957 to 1960 as an air traffic controller. I was 11 at the time. I am revisitting Malta in August this year! I have many pleasant memories. I wish I could find the old RAF Luqa primary school on Google Maps. Does anyone know what happened to it?

Pauline Delaney nee Maddock

7/9/2018 01:56:42 pm

I went to the primary school at Luqa, found this site whilst browsing for info on another matter! After taking the 11+ I went on to Tal Handaq high school. I remember how strict the teachers were!

Frank zarb link

16/2/2014 04:11:15 am

Hi Pete, , hope you con remember me at madlienaas a air defence operator. Those were good times . Regards frank.

Paul Duffield

18/2/2014 12:39:55 am

I served at Luqa from April 1972 to 1973. (disestablished). I was in air traffic + a member of the aerial players & was in the panto early 73. Would be great to hear from anyone that remembers me

Caroline Meyerhoff

14/3/2014 05:21:14 am

Hi, came across your site whilst trying to trace someone that was in the RAF. His name is Edward Wigg and he was stationed at RAF Leconfield around 1967 then was posted to Malta. I believe he was a fireman and am hoping that maybe someone may have some information about him. Thanks for your time.

Terry Courtnadge

15/3/2014 06:00:52 am

Caroline, I knew him very well at RAF Luqa, although I was in the RAF Police not fireman ; I remember him telling me his uncle was Lord (George) Wigg, Chairman of the Betting and Gambling Board.

Caroline Meyerhoff

16/3/2014 03:55:18 am

Thank you so much Terry, I have been trying to trace Edward for quite a few years now and was beginning to lose hope. If you have any more information about him i would be so grateful as my knowledge of him is limited.

Damian Smyth

1/6/2016 05:05:16 am

Hi, Caroline Meyerhoff came across your request on the ‘RAF Luqa remembered site whilst doing some work on my new book about RAF Leconfield. I see you were trying to trace someone that was in the RAF. His name is Edward Wigg and he was stationed at RAF Leconfield around 1967 then was posted to Malta. I believe he was a fireman and am hoping that maybe someone may have some information about him. I wonder did you ever find the chap inquisition. Were you living at Leconfield around the same time if so do you have any reactions of Leconfield.
Best regards Damian Smyth
damiansmyth60@yahoo.com
https://www.facebook.com/RAF-Leconfield-158533137511108/

Samantha Grant

7/2/2018 10:50:17 am

Hi Caroline, I just came across your post about Edward Wigg who was a close friend of my father's when they were both stationed at RAF Luqa in Malta around 1967. We remain close to the family if you'd like me to share or pass on any details. Sam.

Don Pape

9/9/2018 11:05:51 am

Hello Caroline.I have just found this wonderful site and a couple of names I recognize one being the famous Bob Ewing the other my old mate "Eddie Wigg", I was on the same crew as Eddie, I know it's the same chap because as has been stated he was at Leaconfield and he himself told me of his relationship to Lord Wigg, apart from the fact they were as alike as two peas in the proverbial. I have a photograph of Eddie and another crew mate John Townend taken on the veranda of our block at the domestic site RAF Luqa about 1970, I was posted there 69-71 a singly tour two and half years, the craziest and best years of my RAF career, but yes I remember Eddie, the last I heard of him would be in 74, I was in the Army by then and visiting Northolt, met up with a chap we had been stationed with and was informed Eddie had gone into the "Prison" service, couldn't believe it but that's what I was told, anyway hope you read this and helps in some way.

Donald Pape

10/9/2018 12:50:42 am

Hello Caroline. I was on the same crew on the Fire section at Luqa with Eddie Wigg I was stationed there 69/71 as a singly living in the same block, in fact I have a photograph of him with another fireman called John Townend standing on the veranda outside the room.
The last I heard of Eddie was in 74, I was in the Army by that time and I had occasion to visit RAF Northolt and a chap who had been stationed with us told me that Eddie had already left the RAF and joined the "Prison Service". I can confirm another comment re Eddie being related to Lord Wigg as He told me himself, and if you met him you would recognize the resemblance, I can also confirm the comment re RAF Leaconfield. Hope this helps in some way, if you do contact Eddie could you pass on my best regards, one other thing, if memory serves me correct Eddie married a Maltese girl.

Brian Kelly

18/3/2014 05:56:13 am

Caroline. If you are not successful the Daily Mail publishes photographic search items on Saturdays. These searches have helped a lot of people contact friends etc,especially service personnel, so it may be worth your while to have a go. You will find the searches towards the back of the paper. Good luck

Andy Houldsworth

10/5/2014 03:13:04 am

Trying to send you a couple of photos I think you would like. My father Bill Houldsworth is mentioned on your 203 Sqn page, he was also stationed at Luqa on 38 Sqn 1948-50
Regards
Andy

David Rose link

10/5/2014 08:11:59 am

Hello Andy, I tried to send a message to your email address that you entered when you left the comment but I received a delivery failure.
If you go to the photo gallery pages there is a link in the text (in red) saying 'send me'. if you click on that you get my email address, or just right hand click on it and 'copy email address'.
Thanks very much
Dave

mick stead (stix)

10/6/2014 03:20:53 pm

Just seen the photo of Colin Beasley in the BFBS section, wearing the T.A.S.F T-Shirt. He got T-shirts and Zaps printed, Plaques the lot. Remember him well

Terry McGhee

20/7/2014 04:40:03 am

Hello Mick,
Terry McGhee here who worked in Medical Centre with Taffy Powell. I use to room with Jim Abott and Gary Mendoza. Nice to hear that you are still around.

Stix

23/7/2014 04:52:42 pm

Hi Terry
Remember you well. What times we had. You still doing Elephant impressions with beer bottles?? Posted a couple of photos of my birthday part. on face book. still trying to locate others in loft. Remember doc Jones? He followed me to Linton on Ouse and became a close family friend. Hope all is well with you. I'm looking at going to Malta for the reunion next year. The wife wants to see what its like. hope to hear from you soon.

Paul McCormick

29/10/2015 03:22:37 am

Hi Terry I picked up your comment earlier on but couldn't see were to answer you . How are you doing are you still in touch with Taff ? Was Nobby Lonsdale there with you ?

Bob Jones

14/6/2014 09:29:31 pm

I was stationed at RAF Luqa between 1960 / 1962 my friends were Clin Talbot ,Jay Gardner ,Tony Spiteri , Joe Dimech. Clint now lives in Australia and I am in contact with him also with Jay , Joe & Tony. Tony still lives in Malta ,joe in Canada & jay in Bristol. Anyone can reach me at my email address bryambo@hotmail.co.uk

Terry McGhee

8/7/2014 05:57:58 am

Just trawled through the list of names on the website. Memories come flooding back especially the "Corinthia Palace Dirty Dozen". Are we still barred for life??????

Dave Rose link

9/7/2014 03:23:14 am

Hi Terry, what years were you there?
If the staff at the Corinthia Palace are anywhere near our age now they probably still remember. Won't remember yesterday but will remember 'us lot' from 40 years ago!

Stix link

23/7/2014 04:58:14 pm

Terry
Look at memories page 2. I put my time there as i remember it.
Me and jim got a one sided conversation with O.C Eng, we marched out, then they marched Jim back in to give him his tapes. what a night

Bruce Allen

12/7/2014 12:14:55 am

I was doing some research & found your website. I was in the RAF from 1962 -1976 (Ex B/E) My first posting was to Stradishal No1 ANS. I was an SAC AWM We had the old Varsity's & used to do NAVEX's to Malta among others. I have fond memories of Malta & some not so fond, the infamous 'Gut' for one! Welcome any comments from other chaps who may have had similar experiences

Archie Carter

16/7/2014 08:30:34 am

Was a kid in Malta inearly 60s when my father worked at Msida naval base and we lived in Lourdes buildings opposite the old stadium. Learnt to swim at naval beach club on Manoel island and disco roller skating on tennis courts. Stationed at Luqa on the fire section from 72-75 and a singly for most of that tour. Married Pat in St Andrews church in south street, Valletta on 5 October 1974 with our reception in the police club at Safi. Pats Dad was the late Cpl. Gordon Rennie on the CI team. Married 40 years with 4 grown up children something few people expected!!! Who remembers "rent a crowd" in the Glad club? I was a committee member and our vtable was the worst in the disco on a sat.

archie carter

16/7/2014 09:01:39 am

Forgot to mention about my childhood in Malta that I went to Verdalla school. Most Sundays we would go off in this old 1940s car my dad got hold off with rearward opening doors and a fold down canvass roof and head for Golden bay. I also loved Gwan Tuffeiah though walking back up those steps was a bit of a trek. My late mother was in regular contact with Joe the postman from Msida for years and years after we left.

Dave Rose link

17/7/2014 04:31:48 am

Don't know if you know but there's also a forum where you can start, and join in on, discussions.
It was quite busy for a long time but I don't think newer visitors know about it.
http://raf-luqa.lefora.com/
See you there hopefully.
Dave

Bruce Allen

17/7/2014 12:29:08 am

I forgot to mention, I think it was on King's St? on a Sunday evening when a lot of families paraded in their Sunday Best for a few hours, maybe looking for suitors for sons & daughters?

Dave Rose link

17/7/2014 04:30:50 am

Brian Burrows

18/9/2014 05:59:18 pm

I remember King St, Valetta on Sunday evenings. It seemed as though the entire population was parading up and down. That was in 1953 when I was there in the RAF Police

Tom Brown

12/3/2018 05:14:18 am

The parading on Kingsway had the girls showing off their DIY dresses with stockings pulled over their knees and held up by twisting their index fingers into the stocking top leaving a sort of knot.
Considering that the Maltese had only got out of the privations of the war a few years before it was a magnificent effort.

Dave Rose link

17/7/2014 04:32:44 am

Hello all new visitors - Don't know if you know but there's also a forum where you can start, and join in on, discussions.
It was quite busy for a long time but I don't think newer visitors know about it.
http://raf-luqa.lefora.com/
See you there hopefully.
Dave

Brian Kelly

18/7/2014 06:03:44 am

Hello to Archie Carter I was in Malta 72 - 75 and worked with Gordon Rennie. I am saddened to read that he has passed on. I must have been on uniform duties when you got married. Just in case you remember me, I was the good looking bloke.

Brian Burrows

1/8/2014 07:32:13 pm

I was at RAF Luqa 1953/54. (RAFPolice) I have searched through the guestbook but have found no-one from my era. Am I the only one left??

Terry Courtnadge

2/8/2014 02:02:29 am

Hi Brian, at Watton when J. Garvey informed me I was posted to Malta in 1967, you were there in the office, you never said that you'd served there more than a decade earlier and you were awarded Steamer Point, lucky you!

Brian Burrows

23/9/2014 07:00:11 pm

Hi Terry,
Yes, Lucky old me winning a trip to Aden while you had to put up with a tour in Malta!

stevan bones

6/9/2014 10:50:03 pm

203 squadron 72 till 75 still breathing and living in devon been back a few times turn your back for 40yrs or so and they change things.

Geoff (Wobbly) Webster

6/6/2015 01:51:54 am

Hi Steve, I remember you very well, especially when Dave Thorpe picked up yor pay once! Where in Devon are you as I live there as well now.

john p

18/9/2014 05:30:03 am

does anybody remember a Massimo{max} Felice from #38 squadron
luqa engine mech

Andrew Lane

23/9/2014 12:59:52 am

Wonderful to stumble across memories of BFBS Malta, my first BFBS posting!

I left, for Germany, a few months before the station closed.

Great memories!

David Rose link

23/9/2014 04:26:29 pm

Thanks very much Andrew, I thought the work of BFBS should be recognised, it was very popular and respected by listeners the world over.
Funnily enough, just before I saw and approved your comment there was a couple on the TV (house alteration programme) in High Wycombe. He was ex RAF and she was ex BFBS. Talk about coincidence!

Gordon Dale

8/10/2014 10:59:07 pm

Hi. I was at RAF LUQA from 59-61 in the inst workshop my boss was SGT NIX I lived in ST Georges street Luqa, Does this jog any memories ?

Lee Smith

21/11/2014 07:44:28 am

Hi Gordon, I am doing some research on my father, he was stationed at RAF Luca as a Military Police (Dog Handler) 60-63, He was also a keen rally driver with another person(who i don't know). we lived in an apartment in Sliema would you be able to help me.
Oh his name was Jim Smith

Lee

michael swift link

15/11/2014 04:41:10 am

Was at RAF LUQA from 58 to 60 as an armourer on 39 sqdn pr3 canberras and would like to hear from anyone from that time. Also was with 38sqdn shackletons for the last few months of my posting Great times and good posting.

Noel Sherlock Essex UK

21/11/2014 11:00:25 pm

Was at RAF Siggiewi from 1962-1964. Loved the Island and the people. Have been back via cruise ship and still loved it. I got married in 1962 and my wife Valerie joined me and we lived at St Julians in an RAF hiring. Was my last posting overseas before leaving at the end of 1965 on completion of my 10 plus 2 years service, Enjoyed playing hockey for the RAF Malta while there and was fortunate to visit Tripoli and Cyprus to play. Great posting.

Kim McManus

18/4/2019 06:01:02 pm

Hi my Dad was in Malta 61/65ish. He was RAF police (dog handler) his name is John McManus he was very much into his football and basketball. I was born in 1964 in Imtarfa but we lived in Luqa. My Dad was from Northern Ireland but looked like an Italian(lol ) I have a memory of a friend of my Dad 's who I can remember was called Big Mo also Dad's dogs where called Rex and Kim. My Dad also went to Cyprus to play basketball but his first love was football.. If anyone knows of him or has old photos in which he is in please let me know. Kim McManus (11 Luqa St.. 61/65) Thanks

Tony Pleasant

23/11/2014 10:00:50 am

Highly reccommend a book "The Kappillan of Malta" by Nicholas Monsarrat

Brian Kelly

24/11/2014 01:38:59 am

Hello to Lee Smith, If you also post a message on the RAF police website rafpa.com you will most likely get a reply

David Morrison.

2/12/2014 07:58:06 pm

I was posted to Luqa as a cpl.a.fitt.a.Iwas on 37 sqn Shackletons.This
was April 1957.I moved to Aden in August the same year with the squadron.I really enjoyed the time I had in Malta.I was a founder member of the Knights skiffle group and played various places.Every
Sunday morning we all went to Military bay (Ghajn Tuffieha).I still go to
Malta at least once a year,and have done since 1981.Yours Dave.

nigel taylor

13/12/2014 01:02:43 am

I served at Luqa from 1951/1953. My "lass" and I were married during my embarkation leave. The two and one half years I spent on Malta must have been the best "honeymoon" anyone could possibly ask for.. needless to say - on an island where certain "items" were banned - our first daughter was born in Mtarfa Hospital. I was a telegraphist and worked in the commcens at AHQ Malta & RAFLuqa..After a spell in hirings at both Floriana & the Rue D'Argens in Gzira (just opposite the Royal Navys' MQ block...I lived in the AMQs at Luqa ..Many, many, are the truly very happy memories your "Guestbook" bring back to me..TKU....

Terry Courtnadge

16/12/2014 07:07:10 am

I recently (during November 2014) while staying in St Julians, I took a trip out to Number one Site and the only building that remains the same is the Guardroom ! and that is looking a bit frayed around the edges, the rest of No. 1 Site is an Industrial Estate and one cannot recognise anything save possibly the shabby, forlorn remains of the MQs ; I tried to remember everything as I remember it and just succeeded in getting completely lost ! But No. 2 Site still almost looks the same as it was in my day ( June 67 to December 69).

John J Jordison (Geordie)

24/1/2015 02:36:53 am

posted to Luqa Jan 63 to July 65. RAF Police Dog Handler. Tony Rich,Barry Fleetham Bruce Dean were fellow dog handlers. Met my wife who was on holiday out there, 50th wedding anniversary next year.

John Myles

31/5/2019 06:44:29 pm

HiGeordie.

You may remember me, the only 'Jock' on the dog section. The names you mentioned brought back memories, are you in contact with any of them?.

I went to Rhodesia and made it up to WO i/c Air Force Police Dog Training School,then commissioned in Army Intelligence Corps, Special Forces, met my wife, a Scots girl of course, moved to Australia and now a retired Presbyterian Minister.

Andrew Hastings

25/1/2015 09:23:11 pm

Served in the RAF Feb 1972 to Dec 1981. Two yr Cosford apprenticeship followed by postings to Kinloss/Luqa and Wyton always with Nimrods.

2nd line service bay at Kinloss (ARNIF) then on the flight line with 203 squadron Malta and 51 squadron Wyton.

Norman Sharp

11/1/2017 11:22:39 am

Hi Andy....Remember me? How are you? We were on 203 line together and played football for the squadron. Fond memories of visiting you in Elstree 78 or 79 after we went back to UK. I hope your parents are still in good health.
Please give me a shout if you pick this up
Regards
Norman
jn.sharp1@btinternet.com

Doreen Thomson

17/2/2015 07:00:20 am

Lived in Malta with my RAF husband from 1972 summer for three and a half years. We were fortunate to have an extension on our posting there. Your webpages are very interesting, thank you for sharing the memories.

Marty King

23/2/2015 12:39:04 am

Just found this website, and the memories of a great 2.5 year tour (as a 19-year-old SAC from Feb-69 to Aug-71) in Supply Wing RAF Luqa come flooding back. For some reason, I can picture the garage just along from the No-2-Site roundabout; was a super café there - steak, egg, chips, bread & butter + a bottle of Cisk for 4/6d!!

Dave Rose link

24/2/2015 06:52:58 am

Garage is still there, and I think with the same family. I think it was called Chico's when we were there. I was Sept 72 - Jan 74.

Fred Hart

27/2/2015 10:54:44 pm

Just a wonderful site. Has brought back many memories of my posting to 39 Squadron between Jan 67 to Dec 69 and the great times my ex-wife and I had there. Did any of you who check this site serve with 39 Sqdn during this period? If so, I would love to hear from you.

joe demicoli

3/3/2015 08:09:25 pm

Hi
I am doing a tv spot about the ASTRA cinema at Luqa Barracks, but no one seems to know anything about it.

I need any information whatever it may be relating to this cinema
please, if you know anyone

Thanks
Joe

Marty King

30/4/2015 08:41:32 pm

Hello Joe, not been on here for a while so only just seen your 'ASTRA' post. I can recall it was fairly near No-2 Site's entrance and I think it was a Shilling (5p in today's money) to get in (Feb-69 to Aug-71) - hot-dogs were very good as well. Only other recollections are seeing three 'CSE Shows' during my time at Luqa, with - if memory servers - the top of each bill being: Ivor Emmanuel, Joan Regan, Gerry & The Pacemakers......happy days.

Tony Beaman

31/12/2016 03:28:55 am

I was stationed at Luqa from late 1958 until JUne 1961 and remember the Astra cinema which was near to the camp entrance. I seem to remember a scandal when a senior NCO was in trouble for 'misappropriating funds' from the cinema. I visited the Astra a number of times but generally preferred to go to the cinema in Luqa village.

Terry Courtnadge

22/3/2017 04:06:02 am

Tony
It was the Metro in Luqa Village, I visited frequently between 1967-69. There was no A/C so the high up windows had to be wide open thus allowing in traffic noise plus several fans whirring around ; then to the Airbourne Bar by the church afterwards.

Bob Croton

6/11/2018 01:05:53 pm

I seem to remember it as the only cinema I visited on the island that had ash trays (and no smoking!). It's still there with the Astra sign in place but I don't know if the Armed Forces Malta (AFM) still use it. There's a picture taken just in 2010 on an AFM open day, it's on page 1 of the photos above under my name.

Dave Rose

10/11/2018 03:15:20 am

There was talk of it being demolished a year or two ago.
If the state of the accommodation is anything to go by I wouldn't out much hope for the ASTRA being in any fit state to be used.

Andrew Lane

4/3/2015 04:32:00 pm

Malta was my first BFBS posting, and this site has brought back happy memories. I wonder what Floriana is like now? Sad that many so the people who were at BFBS at that time are no longer with us.

Andrew Lane

4/3/2015 05:24:17 pm

Just looked at Richard Yates's pictures of Safi Folk Club. The two "unknown" people on the stage were both BFBS - on the left, looking at the photo, was the late Peter Johnson and with him was engineer David - stupidly, I can't for the moment think of David's surname!

Ken Slide

2/5/2015 03:12:01 am

Hi Marty
Sorry that I cant place you in an aging memory.
Apart from my "Zulu" and its consequences (ha! ha!)
I really treasure my 2 & 1/2 years in Malta.
Shackleton's were great fun.
Things have changed of course.....on Google Earth
its hard to place the island I knew.
Have you ever been back?
In health thankfully I am well.
I hope that you too are ok.

Ken

Jerry Myers

1/9/2015 02:02:20 am

I remember you Ken, Armourer. I was a SAC leckie lived in Birzebuggia. Names from the past Alan Gledhill, Fred Cockbill, Pete Sturman, Cliff(Crazy Horse) Sargison, George Mithchel, Scotty Matheson etc etc. Good to know you're fit and well. Managed to complete thirty years before deciding I didn't like it.

Allen Gledhill

21/1/2017 04:25:54 pm

Hello,just read you knew my father in Malta when he was with 203 Sqn.I too lost touch with him and am looking for memories lost.I've got a couple of his photo albums from his time in the RAF,have to dig them out! Anything youbhave would be very appreciated.Regards.Allen

Bill Clark

20/10/2017 03:16:38 pm

Jerry, Iremember you at 203. and most of the names you mentioned. Here are some more I remember, Tony Lindsey-Hall, George MacKenzie, Roger "Cabbage" Greenand of course Sandy Molyneux.. I evntually left the RAF in 97 after 31 years so I was slow to realise that I didnt like it as well. Although I loved my time in Malta

Allen Gledhill

21/1/2017 04:31:39 pm

Good day,just saw you in the chain about Malta 69-71,my old man was an armourer on 203 Sqn.maybe you knew him? I lost touch with him just after we camw back from there,have a couple of photo albums but not much else,you got any memories to share? Cheers,Allen

Marty King

2/5/2015 07:28:22 pm

Marty King

4/5/2015 09:54:30 pm

Wotcher Ken,Not surprised you can't place me - we are talking 46 years ago & I seem to recall you were old even then (well, to me you were!!). Agree that the island has changed a huge amount from our days and No, I've not been back; just never been able to fit it in but might manage a trip after retirement next year. Met the present Mrs King (Mary) out there back in 1970 (Ten-Pin-Bowling-League Prize Night at Kalafrana Beach Club), so it would be nice for us to have a trip down Memory Lane!!
Glad to hear you're keeping well Mate and I also concur about Malta being a great tour - especially as the Shacks & PR9s meant plenty of Detachments to all sorts of exotic places; even though many of 'em do not exist anymore!!
Take Care - and mine's a Hop-Leaf please!!

Caroline ruse

10/5/2015 08:50:02 am

Hi, my dad Gerald ruse was stationed at safi and then lived in Sliema just after he got married, I think 1959 onwards I was conceived in Malta . I'm now 54 mum and dad live in Weston super mare Somerset now . Love Malta Been many times does any one remember him from safi??

Ken Slide

11/5/2015 05:09:05 am

Hi Marty

Mines a Marsavin White Label with white lemonade tops!
(Yeuk!) Down in a little café in Luqa village.

Seriously, I loved my 2 1/2 yeas on Malta, lovely people,

though there are many regrets....there is so much history

on that small island, I wish I had looked around far more

than I did. In fact 1000's of years of history. Obviously

WW2, but there was evidence of Greeks, Romans, Arabs,

biblical and so many more.

Yes, almost laughably I am an old man now...76.

So my visits to Malta (and Crete & Cyprus) are on my laptop

via Google Earth. Its changed a bit, especially Luqa.

But then so much has changed, the RAF is full of school kids,

well they look it to me! ha! ha! Though they look great.

If you do get to go back to Malta lift a glass for me. (Er, Marty,

keep yer clothes on! ha! ha!) Keep on the Straight Street!!

Ken.

Mike Hill

14/6/2015 07:05:20 am

Dave, I was on 203 Shacks from 69-71 & back on 203 Nimrods from 75-78 but I've seen many of your great notes on the Coffee Bar site - mastered by Bryn Wayt!
This is the first time I've actually followed a link to the site and I must say, you're to be congratulated on a great job. Amazing to see how many old comrades have been able to get back in contact because of the site - well done.
We also have very good memories of both our tours in Malta. Sadly return visits have been too infrequent. I must mention the 203 re-union in 2002 brilliantly organised by Brian Essex (who retired there) and Colin Pomeroy. It was one of those fantastic never to be forgotten events. So many old friends. Anyway, keep up the good work - see you in the "Coffee Bar".

Dave Rose link

14/6/2015 08:08:37 am

Thanks Mike, your very kind comments are much appreciated, glad to like it.
I started the site because I could never find anything about the RAF in Malta other than a few photos and odd bits and pieces. Thought it all needed to be in once place and was very pleasantly surprised when it all took off.
Hope I can maintain it for many years to come, new people keep popping up every now and then.
Cheers
Dave

Ken Slide

4/9/2015 01:54:20 am

Hi Jerry
Wow, those names leapt out at me.....its been a long time, and yes,
I did 16 years before I gave up. I'm 76 and well.
Hopefully you are ok too.
I go back to Malta often....er, only on Google Earth!!
Thanks for your contact. Keep smiling.
Ken.

Dave Rowse link

4/9/2015 02:40:37 am

Ken, if you just visit on google earth you might also like to look at this
http://www.skylinewebcams.com/en/webcam/malta.html
cheers
Dave

Ken Slide

6/9/2015 11:08:27 am

Thank you Dave for your skylinewebcam, I have not seen them
before. I am impressed.
Ken.

Elspeth Richings

11/10/2015 07:25:39 pm

My ex-husband Tony and I were civilians in Malta 1969/72 and lived in Mosta. Tony worked for Bluebell - the jeans factory. Our great friends were Lyn and Sgt. Robert [Bob] Holland who also lived in Mosta round the corner from us. Our children Phillida and Chris were together with Mark and Susan Holland at every opportunity. Our son Tim was born in Malta. We often visited the Sergeants' Mess with Lyn and Bob and spent many happy evenings dancing the night away. Warrant Officer Clifford Jordan was President of the Mess at that time and was also a good friend. I can't remember the names of all the other RAF people we knew -there were lots of parties and good times at the Beach and sometimes at Kalafrana. Unfortunately have lost touch with everyone as we emigrated to Australia in 1973 but would love to hear from anyone who remembers me.

Franco Cassar

21/10/2015 10:31:45 am

Firstly thanks very much for a fantastically informative and nostalgic website.....those were the days!!

My dad was SAC (later, in UK, Cpl Saviour (Sammy or Sunny) Cassar. He was a Photographer by trade and he was at Luqa from enrolment in around 1961 to August 1968 (not sure where) and August 1970 to March 1978 with 13 squadron (I think). Transferred to RAF Northolt until 1983 when he retired....as you will have guessed he sadly passed away at the age of 52 in 1986. The two year gap (1968 to 1970) was spent (very happily) in Cyprus where I believe he was Camp Photographer at Episkopi. We were the first ever RAF (M) family to deploy abroad and were met at Nicosia (after a Brittannia fight via El Adem) by some top Officer! Picture and article was published in the Times of Malta and I can be seen at the tender age of 6 with my shirt hanging out shading my eyes from the sun!! I'll try and find it and post it sometime.

Recently I found a photo of Dad next to an infamous PR7, WT530..I reckon it would have been around 1976..it later crashed at the Siggiewi end of the runaway in 1978 with one fatality. This in turn led me to a book, Winged Warriors (http://www.wingedwarriors.co.uk) recently published by Paul Macdonald ex 13 sqdn pilot. A very good read and some good stuff about Malta. He kindly replied to my email and gave me a lot of info about how Dad would have operated within the 13 Sqdn Team. He is shortly publishing another book entirely about Malta (Malta's Greater Siege and Adrian Warburton)

I never went back to live in Malta, come 1983...after 19 years in London I have since lived in Gibraltar for the past 19 years but go back to Malta regularly to visit Mum etc. My memories of the Forces in general and the RAF in particular in Malta are strong but would welcome any background and in particular that may involve my Dad...shame I didn't ask him when I could!

Colin Paterson

26/11/2015 05:38:56 pm

Franco, I worked with your father in the camera bay at Luqa. I have just put a photo up on Facebook of the NAAFI wagon outside the camera section, your father has his back to me unfortunately. I have fond memories of Sammy, we got on well. In fact he got me my first flat, I think it belonged to someone in the family, it was on M’rabat ? Street in Sliema. I don’t remember him working on 13sqn as such, just in the bay. Before I moved “out” to the flat, he used to give me a lift to the barrack site, in a Fiat 500, or occasionally on a motorbike.

franco cassar

27/11/2015 03:49:35 pm

Hi Colin....thanks for the reply and photo..fantastic (I've also commented on FB). Glad you were mates and he helped you with accommodation ...sounds like him!! Not sure about the flat but I'll ask Mum. Mrabat is indeed in Sliema (well remembered). I think the fiat would have been his trusty 850..purchased in Cyprus and shipped back to malta. So he wasn't on 13? how I wished I had listened more!!! regards

Paul McCormick

29/10/2015 03:12:06 am

I was stationed at Luqa 1975-1978 and was on the medical recovery team for the Vulcan crash. A very sad time for all. The Maltese people were amazing considering the tragedy that occurred. I had a wonderful time in Malta made all the better bye the warmth and friendliness showed by the people. Thank You

SNOWY ROWE link

9/11/2015 12:22:39 pm

Hi I was on 39 sqdn 1969-71. lived in Fagura [St Frances St]. Spent most of my leisure time at Red Lion Bar, landlord one Senor Six and his wife Patty. Ran the mixed darts team with some success.Anyone out there who remembers ought about this please get in touch.Desperately trying to find Dave Scott Cpl Supply at Luqa, any info would be great Cheers.

Doug Califano

25/12/2015 11:41:34 am

Looking for anyone in 38 squadron, RAF Luqa 1955-1958. Can be contacted via Facebook.

Colin E Armitage

11/1/2016 01:22:09 pm

I had a great time at Luqa 1966 to 1968. I have fond memories of the squadron but unfortunately no photos that I can find.

Keep up the good work.

Brian Kelly

31/1/2016 12:51:08 pm

Hello. Do any Malta vets of 1974/75 know of the whereabouts of Wg Cdr Gray who was in Malta as a Dental Officer during that period?

David Rose link

4/2/2016 01:35:08 pm

Received this from Jacquie Perryman

Name
Jacquie Perryman
Comment
Hi David,
I was so happy to find your website when searching for any information about what happened to Pete Kaslik, son of star diver (and RAF man?) Victor Kaslik, whom I met at Tigne Beach Club in Malta in the summer of 1967. (We were there at the invitation of my father's friend, RAF man John Macdonald, and stayed in his house in Valletta). Pete and I became fast friends, but eventually lost contact - after all we were both only 15/16! And there was no internet then.

I think I that the Kaslik family moved to the UK around 1968/9??? But there the trail goes cold.

I have found reference to Victor via the RAF sites, and I just found Pete's name listed in the excellent Tal Handaq school site, but I just wondered if anyone might have any information since, or indeed f you knew Pete?
I would just love to know he is OK, happy and what he went on to do. He was a fantastic diver and swimmer, played guitar, and we had stayed in contact via letter for a year at least.

Thanks for any info you can give me.
Best wishes
Jacquie

Graham Scott

6/2/2016 11:05:09 am

Served at Luqa, in ATC, from December 1977 intil January 1979. Visited Malta for the first time in 36 years last September.

David Rose link

6/2/2016 01:55:41 pm

Thanks for leaving the comment Graham. Same with me, I left in January 1974 and it was 38 years before I returned, left it far too long.
Walking through Marsaxlokk an old chap stopped me and said he recgonised me from the times he spent at the sailing club - John Spiteri it turned out to be who I remembered when he told me his name. I was amazed.
The places have changed but not the people thank goodness.

Michael Read

4/4/2016 02:56:14 pm

My oldest brother Denis Read was stationed in Malta in the early 1970's, I think he was involved with stores activities. He played a lot of football over the years. Sadly, he passed away in February 2011. Does anyone remember him or have any stories about him, as I am writing a family history book and would like to know more about Denis's service years.

Bryan Knight link

28/4/2016 05:00:57 pm

I was never actually stationed at Luqa, initially being posted to Safi, but my work with servicing 37 and 38 Sqdn Lancs took me there quite often back in 1948. Later I was moved up to Ta'Qali and 73 Sqdn but would still travel down to Luqa for Rugby football committee meetings.
In 1949 I was transferred to AHQ Valletta and the Middle East Education department with instructional duties at Luqa, Safi and Ta'Qali. My primary work though was testing and selecting candidates for the newly-formed RAF(Malta Branch).
Always said I'd retire there ... but finished up here on a remote ridgetop in East Tennessee, USA - lol !

Regards,
Mick

Ian Vipond

27/5/2016 12:42:43 pm

I have read many of the above posts, but remember none of the names. For my memory is poor of such times when I was there with the RAF between August,1972 and January, 1975. I arrived with the re-starting up of RAF Siggiewi, equipment and men, and saw the place re-open and worked down the cave for the first 12 months after the re-opening of the communications centre. I wonder if anyone remembers my name?

Brian Kelly

19/6/2016 10:35:29 am

Hello Ian. I was in Malta at the same time as you. I was in the RAF Police. Although I do not recall your name we must have met during those years. I bought 2 nice pictures ( spitfire & hurricane) painted by an aviation artist, an SAC at Siggiewi, but I cannot remember his name. They were £8 per picture. No doubt you will remember him.

Dave Rose link

28/5/2016 04:36:51 pm

Hello Ian, just approved your comment.
Your name certainly rings a bell, I arrived September 72 and was there until January 1974 when I was short toured due to promotion.

franco cassar

3/6/2016 12:58:47 am

sorry..hit the unsubscribe button in error!

Dave Rose

3/6/2016 02:38:41 pm

Hello Franco, do you mean from a guestbook comment thread or from the discussion forum? If it's from the forum you have to go through the registration process and I'd have to approve you again. I'll be checking regularly as I'm not getting the notifications when people request to register.
Hope you are keeping well.
Cheers
Dave

Sac Norman Phillips ( curly - flash )

25/8/2016 06:35:20 am

Just found your site. I was posted to 13 squadron June 71. Would love to catch up with anyone who was there at the time. I have wonderful memories of my time in Malta
Norman

David Rose link

25/8/2016 11:31:01 pm

Hello Norman, I tried to send an email but got a delivery failure for your email address. Text of my message was;

Thanks for the comment on the Luqa Remembered website, always good to hear from new readers.
Have a good browse around the various pages, memories and photographs in particular. You are bound to see someone familiar from that era. There's a 13 Sqdn page under the Photographs, Aircraft Photos - http://raf-luqa.weebly.com/13-sqdn.html
It's a bit short on material compared to the 203 Sqdn page so if you have any photographs and/or memories I'd love to publish them in your name.
Cheers
Dave

Roger Young

25/7/2017 10:53:53 am

Hi Norman
I've just sent a few photo's to Dave Rose. Hopefully he'll put them onto the site. There are a couple of group photo's of 13Sqn, I'm sure you'll recognise a lot of old mates. All the best. Roger

Dave Rose

29/7/2017 01:21:18 am

Hello Roger,
I put the photos on the 13 Sqdn gallery a few days ago, I'm sure I emailed you to let you know.
The link is - http://raf-luqa.weebly.com/13-sqdn.html

Tim Webb

19/9/2016 10:50:28 am

It's great to find this website. I was Bandmaster of the RAF Malta Voluntary Band from 1975 to 1977 and have so many happy memories of my time in Malta that would almost fill a book.
We still keep in touch with our next-door neighbours in Autumn Street Mosta and Pete Vann (RAFP) who took over from me when I was posted back to RAF Uxbridge in Oct 1977. I haven't heard from my very capable assistant - Cpl Manny Brincat - for some years and hope someone will be able to update me - he lived in Fleur de Lys St Birkirkara.
I presented some programmes on BFBS ('Where there's Brass' and 'Fanfare') and loved every minute of it. So sorry to hear of P McD's early death. I remember him well.
I'm now a great-grandad living in Somerset with Jill and would love to hear from any of the old players.

Ruth Markwell

20/9/2016 12:22:44 am

Hi Tim
You and your family lived next door to my family - John and Betty Markwell and their three girls, Katrina, Ruth and Pippa. I think you lived on Autumn Street corner w/Ponsonby Street, where we lived.

Dad loved his time on 203 and TASF, and we all loved our time on the island.

Sadly mum passed away Dec 2007 and Dad passed only last month... the circle of life, eh?

Hope you and the family are well.

Kind regards

Ruth :-)

Pete Biggadike link

7/10/2016 04:40:54 am

Hi Dave we last communicated in 2009! Nice site you have and very interesting. I think you will recall my details from our emails. I was on 13 sqdn from 1965 to 1968. 13 actually moved from Akrotiri in 1965 not 1966. I was on the sqdn advanced party and arrived at Luqa on 10th of August. The rest of the sqdn gradually arrived over the following weeks/months. In late November a Sqdn detachment went out to Tengah for 3 months over Xmas '65 to provide recce for the "confrontation" with Indonesia. As you have seen I have a few Malta photo's on my website and many more in my archives yet to be sorted out.-------I think I'll run out of time LOl!
Keep up the good work.

Colin E Armitage

27/10/2016 12:38:06 pm

Hi pete
I was with 13 Squadron from 66 to68 and had a great time I do remember your name but (at 80) the memory is fading. Would be great to hear from U again.
Colin

PETER BIGGADIKE link

29/10/2016 06:12:36 am

Hello Colin email on it's way to you. See my website for a few Malta photo's. http://www.users.waitrose.com/~g8jan/

Many thanks Dave

Arthur Thomas link

27/10/2016 11:38:04 pm

I served with and played rugby for 45 Commando Royal Marines. We played at various venues around the Med to qualify for the finals of the Middle East Command sevens that were held at Luqa. We fielded two teams and succeeded in carrying off both the cup and the plate.
Great memories.
Arthur

Dave Rose link

27/10/2016 11:49:40 pm

Hello Arthur,
Thanks for the comment, it's good to hear from other forces other than RAF. I should have thought more about the name when I created the site but as I served at RAF Luqa it made sense at the time.
Some time ago I heard from other Marines - Rodney 'Terry' Spinks and Rob Parry. Don't know if they ring any bells.
Best wishes and welcome to the site.

Trevor Fryer

12/11/2016 09:18:22 am

Hello, my wife and I have just returned from our 3rd holiday in Malta in the last 3 years. However, we first visited the island for a week's holiday in October 1970 while we were based at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus. We travelled in a 70 Squadron Argosy, via Crete, on Indulgence, £6 each way! But we cannot remember where we stayed! It was military accommodation, a Union Jack type place, near to the Triton fountain in Valleta, but our memory has faded. Could anyone help in this quest? We have been staying at Golden Bay, a very beautiful area with a lot of military history. As an aside, I spent most of my RAF career on Vulcans and was stationed at Waddington on the fateful day the XM645 crashed at Luqa.

Dave Rose link

27/12/2016 11:47:58 pm

Hi Trevor,
I have a page on this website about XM645 - Hover over the 'memories' page tab and you'll see the page list appear to the right.

Fred Hart

27/12/2016 03:44:42 pm

Brian Kelly

15/1/2017 09:16:48 am

If any of the ex RAF Malta Police ('72 - 75) read this I thought I would advise you I am still kicking in Portsmouth and remember you all. David. how is Julia faring?

Dave Rose link

16/1/2017 02:41:37 am

Hello Brian, There's a few Snowdrops around, have a look on the photo galleries, some locally enlisted too.
Julia is doing really well, got her substantive cpl now, survived two tours of Afghanistan on TPS, been doing lots of dodgy stuff since then and is now in Lincolnshire. Still loving it, and now doing something that she has wanted to do for a while now.

Dave Stapleton link

18/2/2017 12:10:44 pm

Hello Brian, My name is Dave Stapleton and I served with the RAF Police from 1972 to 1994. I am researching the history of the RAF Police BSA WD B40 motorcycles and note in the RAF Vehicle Record Cards that two of these motorcycles were stationed at RAF Luqa between 1973 to 1978. I am trying to find information, and especially photographs, about these motorcycles or anyone who rode them at Luqa. Hope you don't mind the enquiry.

Dave Rose link

19/2/2017 11:13:25 am

Hello Brian and Dave
I thought I had a photo in the galleries of someone on a bike but can't find it, just an old bike in Bob Crotons photo and that is in the aircraft museum.
However, you might try the old local RAF Police - Hector Farrugia and Joe Buttigieg, they are both on here.
I'm sure I have their email addresses, I'll drop them a line.

Joe Buttigieg

20/2/2017 08:23:45 am

Hi Dave,
I am Joe Buttigieg I was an RAF (Malta) Policeman and I served at RAF Luqa from 1962 to 1977. I can assure you that no motorcycles of any type were used during that period both at Station or district level.

Dave Rose

20/2/2017 02:38:33 pm

Thanks Joe, must have been a much earlier period when the bikes were used.
Cheers, good to know you are still there.

Brian Kelly

18/1/2017 01:53:44 am

Hello David. Thanks for the info. Pleased to hear Julia is doing well. If she ever gets another trip to Norway let me know as my son, a very sporting type, lives there at Evja.

Brian Kelly

19/2/2017 10:51:07 am

Hello to Dave Stapleton. I was a keen motorcyclist but regrettably do not recall seeing BSA bikes at Luqa during my time there. If I had seen them I would have certainly had a ride on one. Have ago on www.rafpa.com in case any colleagues can help you. I was taught to ride a 500 Triumph at Debden and investigated traffic accident in Aden on another Triumph. It was lovely in the hot climate

Dave Stapleton link

19/2/2017 11:19:00 am

Hello Brian and Dave, thanks for the replies. You both might like to have a look at my RAF Police WD B40 Motorcycle website at:

www.rafwdb40.uk

Dave Rose

19/2/2017 12:15:38 pm

Brilliant, bike looks very smart, as does the rider :-)
I ride too and I've seen some old military bikes at local (Gloucesteshire / Worcestershire) shows.
My bike is a Honda Shadow VT750C2 ACE (American Classic Edition which means it's a Harley 'wannabee').
http://i572.photobucket.com/albums/ss162/djrose007/P7150781%20-%20Copy_zps3ui9ojsq.jpg
Cheers
Dave

brian burrows

2/8/2017 03:40:50 am

I can confirm there were no RAFP m/bikes at Luqa '53/'54.. I patrolled Cyprus on an Ariel 350 in the summer of '52. Lovely job but the hot air tended to make you sleepy!

Brian Kelly

20/2/2017 02:01:52 am

Hello Dave. Thanks. I have had a look and agree with Dave Rose's comments. My bikes were not so flash. I did have a service BSA scrambler in Aden and sometimes enjoyed myself on the sand dunes

Dave Stapleton link

21/2/2017 12:58:48 am

Hello Joe and All,
I have copies of two RAF MT Vehicle Record Cards F524s from the RAF Museum at Hendon, one for 36 AX 19 and one for 36 AX 29, both record that they were delivered to RAF Luqu and brought on charge on 13 July 1973 and then both were stuck off charge on 17 April 1978. Given your comments Joe I assume they must have been held at the MT section in storage and never issued to the RAF Police?

Brian Kelly

22/2/2017 12:23:19 pm

Hello again Dave. Well done you are making strides. I left Malta in Sept 75 and can confirm the bikes were not used by the RAFP at that time. I do voluntary work on some miiitary ancient monuments in Portsmouth. Yesterday I was advised that about 20 years ago, after many years, a storage area was opened and WW2 BSA m/cycles, still in teir packing crates were discovered.

Dave link

26/2/2017 02:12:39 am

Hello Brian, I have been analysing the information entered on the RAF MT Vehicle Record Cards for the 135 RAF BSA WD B40s and it seems that quite a few were kept in storage in their respective countries, mainly Germany, Cyprus and, as we now know, Malta. I haven't quite finished yet but I reckon 50% of these bikes were never issued to Police flights/squadrons.

Brian Kelly

26/2/2017 12:59:11 pm

Hello Dave. What a shame. I would love to have had one on charge in lovely Malta. Especially during the summer months. I missed out. None of my MT friends mentioned them.
In Aden their were quite a few unused WW2 BSAs at Singapore Lines storage yard. The Aden Police had brilliant Triumph speed twins.

Henry John Stenhouse

6/4/2017 10:22:48 am

I served in Eygpt & Malta 1953-1954. During my time in Malta I was a
LAC /NA11 at the sick bay at R.A.F. Luqa. Any one who remembers me
please get in touch. I am 82 years old and have lived in California for the last 55 years.

Dave Rose link

6/4/2017 11:53:39 pm

Hi Henry, thanks for the comment, hope you are keeping well.
You lucky man, living in California. I spent 7 weeks in Santa Clara with ROLM Corp in 1984, loved it, regularly did the 101 drive to San Francisco but drove the Pacific Highway 1 for a good few miles during one weekend. Fantastic place.
As for Malta, I'm afraid you are about 20 years before my time. Hope someone turns up that you knew.
Cheers and best wishes
Dave

brian burrows

2/8/2017 03:27:17 am

Hi Henry. I also served in Egypt and Malta '53-'54. I worked in the Guardroom at Luqa. Although I didn't know you personally, it is nice to hear from someone who was there at the same time. I went to Luqa from RAF Abyad,Canal Zone late '53. It would be nice to exchange a few memories.

charles cameron carruthers link

21/4/2017 03:21:21 am

Tod I served with the RAF as a Telep.op and later telegraphist from 1962 to 1974 stationed at RAF Leuchars,RAF Steamer Point (CCA),RAF Pitreavie Castle (Fife),RAF Tengah (Singapore),RAF Masirah,Oman all in 12 years.I played as a piper with RAF Leuchars Pipeband and RAF Seletar Pipeband and back to the`Pit` before demob. Later I joined 603 SQN RAF Aux. and Zulu Coy. 51 st Highland Volunteers HSF as their piper. I did 2 years in Aden,2-1/2 years in Singers and 9 months at Masirah (Teleg for Desert Rescue Team).Also I did a Jungle Survival Course at Kota Tinggi Johore,Malaya.My time in Aden was from 1963 to 1965 and I ended up with a GSM1962 bars Radfan and South Arabia. My twin Brother did a tour in Malta after being evacuated from Cyprus in 1974 and married a Maltese girl hence the order for your Malta Dvd for his birthday on 29th May and no doubt he`ll know some of the guys on the video. I am a member of the Aden Vets.Association,Masirah and Salalah Vets Association Seletar and Tengah Association and also RAF Changi Association to list a few If you want any info on these places contact me by mail as I don`t have a computer. I use the Public Library one here in Dunbar Only too pleased to oblige - CCC.

Penny Ashenhurst

25/6/2018 01:19:53 pm

When were you at Leuchars?. My Dad Ian Ashenhurst was at Luqa 72-75 but he was also at Leuchars 58-62 and 65-72 and 75-80 .. I also served 12 yrs as a WRAF and was at Leuchars Dec 77-May 85 in VASF/ASF & Eng Bay.

Clarke Whitehand

18/5/2019 03:44:27 pm

Are you the "Penny Ashenhurst" who was researching Broadwood Family History pre-2010? Would like to discuss lineage.

Charlie Cameron Carruthers link

24/4/2017 03:12:03 am

Does any of you out there know about the Vulcan crash in Malta in the 70`s when a UK based aircraft crashed into a village and killed the crew and some others?.My brother was at RAF Luqa when it happened and a girl backing out of a house with a pram was burnt to death. he also told me that the jutting out type of windows that the Maltese have in the street were burnt off with the fuel then the Vulcan crashed into the sea.My brother`s Maltese girlfriend was really worried when it happened and phoned all round to see if he was OK but he had nothing to do with it. Grazi Hafnah !!

Dave Rose

24/4/2017 11:45:53 am

Have a look on the website Charlie - http://raf-luqa.weebly.com/xm645-crash-oct-75.html

Dave Rose

24/4/2017 11:50:19 am

Just read the rest of your comment, it didn't crash in the sea, it exploded over Zabbar and the wreckage came down in the town and surrounding area. The lady, only civilian death, was with a friend of mine, Grace Sicluana, and she ran across the road to get her mother out of the house as a section of the aircraft had landed on top of the house. Her mother was ok but she was killed when a broken power cable caught her so she was electrocuted.
The two pilots got out, 5 aircrew and 2 ground crew, in the jump seats, all perished.
If you go back to malta have a look in the Zabbar Sanctuary Museum. I took a load of photographs and they are at the bottom of the page at the link above.

Dave Rose

24/4/2017 11:53:37 am

Sorry, there were 5 people in the rear, not 7 as I said above. Vulcan crew is normally 5 but there were two ground crew with them.

Francis Haggerty

5/5/2017 10:03:33 am

Great site, glad I found it. Brings back some terrific memories. I was in Maritime Ops at Luna. Was O I/c the Sub Aqua club, BSAC 213 as I recall. Now retired to Cyprus.

Ken Hawkins

22/4/2019 01:19:37 pm

Hi Frank
Have just stumbled across this site and recall at Luqa we converted a building into the Dive Club house, me, Stewart Cole, Kris Munson, co-opting wives to paint walls (pale blue), adorning with fishing nets and collected artifacts. Expeds to Gozo, Bottle litter collecting at Blue Grotto with Mike & Agnes Upton, Dave Grave et al.

Francis Haggerty link

6/5/2017 06:59:16 am

In Space in Malta.
Back in 1973 I was asked by the Stn Cdr to introduce his son to Diving. It was not long before he progressed from Novice to 3rd Class BSAC Diver. I remember telling the young lad as we began a tricky dive at Zonker Point – strong current and swimming amongst large crevasses that the experience would be the closest that he would get to being in space. Little did I know then that it was probably the start of Michael Foales space career. He joined NASA in 1987.

Dave Rose link

6/5/2017 01:23:07 pm

Wow, look what you did, kicked off an astronauts career. It must have been inspirational for him.
:-)

charles cameron carruthers link

19/5/2017 03:28:28 am

My twin brother served at RAF Luqa in the 1970`s in the photgraphic section and was known as Stewart Carruthers and does not get on line but would like to know where a good Maltese friend of his called Johnny Frendo who passed away is buried. Stewart married Rose Ellul who was a secretary to the Royal Marine Artillery. I was not so lucky with my postings in the RAF I got Aden, RAF Tengah, Singapore and RAF Masirah. Oman

Dave Rose link

19/5/2017 12:55:34 pm

Hi Charles,
I was also stationed in Singapore but at Seletar (Oct 69 - Feb 71) and Masirah (Jul 68 - Oct 69).
You might like my other site http://raf-masirah.weebly,com
Cheers
Dave

Mario Zammit

24/5/2017 01:31:28 pm

Typing Malta Folk Club Safi brought me to this site. I can trace my involvement in Folk Music today back to the first time I visited the Folk Club at Safi in my late teenage years. It was a pity that I knew about the place at the very last years before the British Forces withdrew from the island but am so proud to have been a regular visitor there. Me and my local folk group even managed to sing a couple of songs to an appreciating audience. That was one moment I will always treasure.

John Mochan

24/7/2017 05:10:13 pm

Brought back some fond memories of my time as a XIII(PR) Sqn navigator at RAF Luqa 1969-72.

Dave Rose link

25/7/2017 12:00:48 am

Hello John, glad you like the site. Not a lot from XIII Sqdn on here other than Brian Crook.
Did you see the 13 Sqdn page - Photos / Aircraft / 13 Sqdn
If you have any photographs for stories I would love to add them to the website.
Thanks very much
Dave

Roger Young

25/7/2017 10:36:37 am

Hello Dave
I served in Malta from 1966 to 1969 on 38 Sqn at Hal Far and then MSF & TASF at Luqa. I returned in 1972 from Cyprus with 13 Sqn until 1975. We lived in Birzebbugia. Made some great friends and enjoyed every minute of it. Married my Maltese wife Rose in 1967 and our son Brian was born at Mtarfa in 1968. Would love to hear from old friends. I will send you some photographs. All the best and thanks for running this website. Roger

Brian Kelly

29/7/2017 10:28:30 am

Hello Roger. I was in the police in Malta from '72 - '75 living in Birze right at the back of the church. Where did you live there? Our paths must have crossed

Roger Young

29/7/2017 01:20:20 pm

Hi Brian, we lived in Caruana's Flats right next to the church above what was then a car showroom/garage with a shoemaker next to our front door. On the right of the church as you look at the front. We were regulars in Johnnies Bar and the Old Beams.

Brian Kelly

2/8/2017 10:00:44 am

Greetings Roger. Thanks for you reply. Although my brain is now hazy we must have spoken at some time as I frequently walked past your house with my chidren on our way to Pretty Bay. I lived in Triq L Ghodda and a Maltese Gent, living at the bottom kept greenfinches outside, in very small cages, which sang beautifully. Your wife may have known my landlady Kitty Camilleri living in 'Jesus House'.

Debbie Milne

14/9/2017 04:54:21 am

I've just been forwarded the link to this site by George Dryburgh.... The photos submitted by Graham Fairhurst - 1972-74 I can add a little info to: The little girl in the first few is me, along with my Mum and Dad, David & Marta Milne... still in contact with George & Dot Dryburgh and Dave Graves :) Some fabulous memories in those pictures - thank you

stuart wilson link

23/10/2017 01:07:54 am

My dad, Flt Lt Gavin Wilson served in Malta in the Marine Branch in the early 1970s and we lived in Malta for the duration of his posting. Would be delighted to hear from anybody who served with him or remembers him. ?

Peter Maher

5/3/2018 01:27:37 am

Hi i was christened in St Francis Church Luqa on 22nd July 1951. I have a baptism certificate but can not find any pictures of this church at all. My uncle was in the RAF and my mother took me to Malta where i stayed for 3 months. I was only 3 months old so do not remember anything. Unfortunately my parents and uncle and aunt have passed on so i can ask them any questions. Cany you help. Thank you.

Dave Rose link

5/3/2018 03:23:53 pm

Hello Peter,
I have posted your message on The RAF in Malta facebook page to see if anyone there can help also.
I hope we can get some information, maybe a photograph even, for you.
Best wishes
Dave

Dave Rose

5/3/2018 11:49:57 pm

Hello Peter, I've sent you an email with information and a photograph from Len Moscrop and Tony Abela.
Hope this helps.

Paul Jesseau

16/3/2018 02:49:21 pm

I came across this site by accident while searching for Mk 2 images.
The last 5 years of my service were spent on Shackletons at Bally Kelly, from 65' to 70' and managed to clock up a lot of hours when ever we were sent on'Ruskie' watching details, as a rigger(airframes) apart from making things to drink and eat for the crew, I was usually stuck in the tail as an observer.
I'm honoured to see photos of my painting and now that it's hanging in the maritime section of the Yorkshire Air Museum, I hope the public can see the history of a great Squadron.
As i'm now 77, the little grey cells memory banks are very faded now, but what memories I do have of the time I served will always stay with me.
I just feel sad at times knowing there will never be a true 'Kipper fleet' a.gain.
Best regards to all.
Paul ( my previous name was Douglas or just Doug.)

Samantha Alderson

4/4/2018 06:12:10 am

Does anybody remember my parents Brian and Vera Alderson? Lived in Birze, then Luqa where i went to school around 1975 ish.

Bob Thompson

29/5/2018 04:08:43 pm

Goodness!

This RAF Luqa site jumped out at me whilst I was searching for an old 360 Sqn chum who had no maritime experience whatsoever. I guess that it was `meant to be`.
How sad it has been though to scroll down the list of friends, ex-colleagues and even names of those who have now departed this life for the ultimate posting.
My regards to all who are still with us!

Bob Thompson
`Small but perfectly formed` AEOp/AEO and other things various.

Rosmary Dalby

3/6/2018 01:17:53 pm

I was in Malta 1953-1956 (I think) when my father (Dennis James Dalby) was with the RAF at Luqa. We lived at "St John" 29 Zabbar Road, Paula. I went to the RAF school at Luqa. I can remember Suzanne Hearn & John MacMillan who were in my class. Would like to see a photo of the school and the white high rise flats that RAF personnel lived in near the airport.

David Rose

3/6/2018 11:26:47 pm

Update from Rosemary - Dennis was a Corporal working on Radar.

Penny Ashenhurst

25/6/2018 01:14:31 pm

Hi

My Dad Ian "Jock" Ashenhurst was on 203 Sqdn June 1972-Nov 1975 as the job Card (F720) coder. We had a hiring at 47 Triq San Pawl in Luqa and my brother and I went to Tal Handaq while my sister went to the primary chool at Luqa domestic site. Still living at age 91 in Perthshire, Scotland

B rian Kelly

1/8/2018 01:20:37 pm

Good evening Penny. I was in rhe RAF in Malta at the same time as you but I do not remember your father. My daughter Jacqueline also went to Tal Handaq. Does her name ring a bell with you?

Donald Pape

10/9/2018 01:06:02 am

Just found this site re RAF Luqa. I was stationed at Luqa 69/71 on the Fire Section as a singly, my best posting ever, stayed in the block to the far left of the Parade ground on the ground floor "we used to get RATs the size of cats" happy day's, later I managed to get a penthouse suite on the top floor "and the fan worked too. Anyway cheers and a Hopleaf to anyone who remembers me.

Dave Rose link

11/9/2018 08:17:40 pm

Hi Don, your name rings a bell but not from Malta, it was all a long time ago though and memory is a funny thing!

Thanks for your comments, if you have any photos you'd like me to put on the website please drop me an email to djrose007@live.co.uk
I'd be happy to publish them in your name.
Info on who, where and when would be really useful to add to as a comment.
Thanks again for dropping in, take care and best wishes
Dave Rose

Don Pape

14/9/2018 06:30:42 am

Hiya Dave.
When we can get our email to work, I'll get caracking on
the pics.
Don.

Brian Kelly link

29/12/2018 10:52:46 am

My father, in the RN, served on the Malta Convoys during WW2. I was fortunate to serve in Malta from 1972 - 1975. Remembering the bravery of the Maltese People during those dark days, I wish to wish you a peaceful, successful 2019

Dave Rose link

29/12/2018 12:30:01 pm

Thanks Brian, heroic indeed and the whole group of islands were more than worthy of the George Cross.
Thanks for your comment,
We may have known each other, I was in the terminal commcen Sep 72-Jan74.
Cheers
Dave Rose (Geordie)

Brian Kelly link

29/12/2018 10:13:33 pm

Hello Dave. We did meet. Remember Taff Cook & Air Dog 'Satan'.I was the escort when you were the radio operator. Is Julia still in the RAFP? My father survived the Atlantic, Malta and Artic Convoys.

Dave Rose

30/12/2018 08:41:44 am

Bloody hell, of course. We were in touch a while back but I don't remember you mentioning Satan before. I have often recounted the story of that night on guard at the AOC's study when you and Satan came in and I was wetting myself hardly daring to move!
How things change, we've got dogs too, a Bichon Frise and a long haired Chihuahua! I typed that not thinking, we lost the Chihuahua last Sunday (23 Dec) https://www.blipfoto.com/entry/2523534298447873349
Not quite as ferocious looking as Satan maybe.
Julia is still in the RAFP, but only just. Expecting identical twins next month and I think she is going to come out as her time is up just about when her maternity leave finishes.
Thanks for reminding me, my mind is getting a bit addled nowadays, turned 70 last month and a switch seems to have been flicked in my head on my birthday!
Cheers for now
Dave

Brian Kelly link

30/12/2018 09:22:13 am

Dave you are still a youngster. Advise Julia to retain her hat. I didn't and very much regret it. Cheers Grandad

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