I am delighted to share news of two recent successes involving the Royal Naval Association here in Spalding. First, we proudly celebrated one of our most dedicated shipmates, Yvonne Crawford. Yvonne is a long-standing Associate Member of the Spalding branch and the wife of our late Chairman, Keith Crawford MBE. Over more than 47 years, … Read more
As we reach this very special time of year, my latest Taku Talk monthly report reflects on a season that means so much to so many of us. It is a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and look forward to Christmas, a period of reflection, gratitude and goodwill. The Spalding Royal … Read more
This month’s TAKU Talk focuses on recruitment and achievement, two areas in which the Spalding Royal Naval Association continues to go from strength to strength. The Spalding Branch is proud of what it does and what it has achieved, particularly in the way it honours and shows respect to the fallen. Our commitment to remembrance … Read more
The Spalding Royal Naval Association remains the only veterans’ association still operating in South Holland, Lincolnshire. This enduring presence is why the Association continues to play a leading role in supporting all military parades and services across the district, ensuring they are carried out with the dignity, precision and respect that our fallen deserve. This … Read more
On Friday 15th August 2025, the Spalding Branch of the Royal Naval Association held a poignant service of remembrance to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day at the WW2 Memorial in the Peace Gardens at Ayscoughfee Hall, Spalding. This years’ service was made especially memorable by the presence of our Guest of Honour, Shipmate … Read more
The Royal Naval Association attended the VJ Day Commemoration Service at the WW2 Memorial in the Peace Garden, Aycoughfee Hall, Spalding. Our guest of honour was shipmate Charles Giles at the ripe old age of 103. Shipmate Giles served in the Pacific Fleet and was present when the Japanese surrendered. Please find below my speech … Read more
During my time as Chairman of South Holland District Council, I had the privilege of meeting Jane Pearson, a passionate campaigner who worked tirelessly to bring Captain Matthew Flinders home to his birthplace of Donington. That vision became a reality, and although I have since retired from politics, I now have the honour of serving … Read more
Following the successful commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the D-Day Landings on 6th June, which began with a flag raising at the South Holland District Council Offices and continued with a Service of Remembrance at Ayscoughfee Gardens, I have been overwhelmed by the number of heartfelt messages received via Facebook and email. Veterans and … Read more
Friday, 6th June 2025 marked the 81st anniversary of the D-Day landings, a defining moment in our nation’s history and a day that will forever be remembered for the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of those who took part.. The Spalding Branch of the Royal Naval Association, under the Chairmanship of Shipmate Richard Brown, was honoured … Read more
I served as a Conservative District Councillor for 14 years and as a Conservative County Councillor for 4 years. I was also a member of the Conservative Association for nearly 15 years. In May 2023, I took a step back from Politics and, after much reflection and witnessing the current state of our country, I … Read more