History of the Reunion
The Reunion started at Crich, in 2006, when Ron, Buster and Tanky, were
having a chat. This was about the second or third time they had been to
the Pilgrimage at Crich since leaving the Army.
During this conversation Tanky said to Ron
and Buster, "It would be nice to see this lot in a Pub with their
wives". About two weeks later Ron phoned Tanky to say he would like to
meet up and discuss what was said at Crich.
Tanky contacted Buster, who said he would like to come along. All three
knew of ex regiment lads, either where they lived or their phone
numbers.
So they set about phoning or writing to ascertain interest in the
possibility of a reunion. The take up was very encouraging so a
committee was formed which set about organising the event, which
they agreed should take place yearly.
The first Reunion was held at the Ukraine Club in Derby. A fantastic
night, attended by around one hundred and twenty ex Woofers, many
accompanied by their wives, girlfriends or relatives...
The Second Reunion was held at The Meadows Inn, again in Derby. By now
the number of lads and their wives/girlfriends attending had grown to
over four hundred. This was the first time that serving Woofers
attended, about ten of them. The Battalion had just returned from
Afghanistan having lost nine men. Due to the generosity of those
attending, that evening the sum of £1115 was raised for the Woofers
Wounded. This was presented to Captain Hallam.
Due to the success and increasing numbers the Committee decided to look
for a larger venue, the Third Reunion was held at The Spot Nightclub in
Derby and in excess of 550 people attended. We made full use of the
overhead screen and showed two or three DVD's. Kenny Holmes put one
together for us called Treasured Photo's, which was quite amusing. The
one that raised the most interest was that of the Amalgamation Parade,
which took place in 1970. It was pleasing to see a number of serving WFR
accompanied by their Fathers, who were ex regiment.
The Committee wish to thank those who attended the previous Reunions and
sincerely hope it goes from strength to strength. Only your continued
support will ensure this. A special thank you is extended to the
families of the fallen who attended, it is hoped they attend in future
years.
To clarify who qualifies for attendance at the Reunion:- Any ex member of
1 WFR, 2 Mercian, 1 Foresters, 1 Worcs. , and serving members of 2
Mercian are entitled to attend. Any member of the TA who has been
attached to 1WFR / 2 Mercian is also entitled to attend, relatives of
the fallen will be contacted by the Committee
Regards to all Tanky