RAF Halton Welfare Caravan Opens
The grand opening of the Halton Lodge eight berth welfare caravan took place at Pagham near Chichester in Sussex. Wing Commander Marie-Clare Allen was there to cut the ribbon with Chaz Cross of the Haven Sales Team and DJ Ned, a Haven character from the park.
The £52,500 welfare caravan, was purchased with money from Central Funds, the Local Investment Grant and Welfare funds. Eurest Services, Service Institute Funds, SERCO, SSAFA, Sgts’ Mess and Officers’ Mess all contributed to the luxury decking and a disability ramp.
It will be used primarily by RAF Halton families then High Wycombe and then other stations subject to availability. The maximum cost will be £425 for Peak Summer Season which also includes Exclusive Owners Passes which give a 15% discount off everything bought in restaurant, bar and Spar Shop on site, plus 50% off outdoor activities.
Wing Commander Allen said: “It was a great pleasure to finally open the caravan after all the hard work of the welfare team getting funding. It is a welcome addition to the welfare facilities at RAF Halton.”
Flight Sergeant Ellie Wileen, Station Community Support Officer at RAF Halton, said: “We had a fantastic buffet lunch in the restaurant on site in beautiful sunshine. The caravan is in a lovely area, you can walk to Pagham nature reserve and Pagham beach or drive to Brighton, Bognor Regis or Wittering Beach.
The upkeep of the van will be done by Haven, however it will be the booking individuals’ responsibility to clean ready for next occupant.” The caravan can be booked through the welfare staff at the Trinity Community Centre.