On Saturday 14th October 2006 Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Air Training Corps held its annual Dinner and Dance in the Forest Suite at the Village Hotel Coventry.

The Mess organise two events annually and it is an excellent opportunity for adult staff, civilian committees and guests to get together and socialise in a pleasant relaxed environment. 140 diners attended on Saturday and cadets from 163 (Coventry-Phoenix) Squadron were present to act as stewards assisting the catering staff as needed.

The Guest of Honour was former Wing Administration Officer Sqn Ldr John Phillips who retired from his post earlier in the year. He was presented with an engraved silver rose bowl from the Wing and a plaque from the Mess; in turn he presented a propeller clock to the Wing to be displayed at Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Headquarters.

Other guests included the newly installed Wing President Air Commodore Duncan Mitchell and Mr Suresh Ladwa who recently left uniformed service in the Corps after many years at 194 (BSA) Squadron.

A number of other presentations were made to members of staff and included a Defence Council Letter of Appreciation to the Chairman of 493 (King’s Heath) Sqn and former Wing Sports Officer Sqn Ldr Mike Stagg for his years of service to the Corps. Regional Commandant’s Commendations were to Flt Lt Ian Crewe of 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn for organising the last three annual Wing Training Days whilst also running a successful unit and Fg Off Mandy Sinfield of 8F (1 st City of Coventry) Sqn in recognition of her input, support and commitment to the unit and Wing as well as bringing up a young family.

The Chairman of 8F Squadron Mrs Gill Dawkins was presented with The Spitfire Trophy, which is awarded annually to the Civilian Committee who have performed excellently during the preceding 12 months. Bouquets were given to Mrs Ladwa and Mrs Gill Mitchell.

The Mess President Squadron Leader Martin Harrison said “Another successful dinner at a good venue. It is always a worry that the right balance is struck at these events but the general consensus is we got it right. I am glad we were able to dine out one of our more ‘colourful’ Wing AdO’s as Sqn Ldr Phillips has always been an ardent supporter of the Corps and during his time in post really bent over backwards to help squadrons, staff and cadets. The cadets who helped steward at table were a credit to the organisation and I am confident that everyone enjoyed the evening. I am a firm believer that our staff will better serve the young men and women in our charge if they themselves are able to get along in a convivial and relaxed manner socially”