Tales from Halton

Stories and anecdotes from the 69th's time at RAF Halton, between 1951 and 1954. Dates shown refer to when the story appeared in the 69th Association's newsletter.

The Fitter's Dilemma

Halton poetry from W. Gordon Hocking of the 69th, as featured in the Halton Magazine, 1954. "u/t" is shorthand for under training.

Oft-times when going round a 'drome one might have seen some fitter small;
looking as though wi' fine toothed comb, to find his toolbox (tools and all).
And high upon the sultry air would come in mournful manner,
while u/t fitter tore his hair: "Who's pinched my blooming spanner?"

Meanwhile, around the hangar door, would stand armed guards like fools;
while fitter moaned wi' forehead sore, his loss of kit of tools.
And high upon the sultry air Would come in mournful manner,
while u/t fitter tore his hair: "Who's pinched my blooming spanner?"

Then in would rush the special guards, wi' blinking great Alsatian;
and breaking records for the hundred yards, they'd cordon off the station.
As every airman went on pass, blokes would rush out like rockets;
and tipping suitcase out on t'grass, would search for secret pockets.

And when at last 'twere five o'clock, and t'dogs refused to work;
realisation with a shock would come to that young erk.
For he would say as like as not: "I'd like to bet a tanner,
that up there in the topmost pot, you'll find my losted spanner."

Then up would climb the silly fool, and down he soon would bawl:
"Aye, here's my blooming losted tool, toolbox and all".
Our hero'd start to quirk and quake, and then he'd start to holler;
and then they'd throw him in the lake wi' toolbox tied to collar.

And high upon the sultry air in most sarcastic manner;
would come from all assembled there: "He lost his blooming spanner".

by W. G. Hocking (69th).