大象传媒

Having completed the aforementioned basic induction necessities it was a question of what to do with us next.
The next stage of training was to be ITW (Initial Training Wing), but there was
congestion in the supply line from ACRC to the ITW's so a "holding unit" (this term will crop up from time to time) had been established at Ludlow and it was to there that we went.
Ludlow consisted of three Wings in tented accommodation and was progressively developed into a more permanent establishment by the cadets passing through, using their civilian life skills. We were allowed (officially) one night in three off camp so as not to flood the pubs, of which there were many, with RAF bods, and cause mayhem in the town..
Four weeks were spent at Ludlow. It was said to be a toughening up course and it was certainly that.
Next stop from Ludlow was to an ITW. Most ITW's were located in seaside towns with the sea front hotels having been requisitioned by the Air Ministry, in my case I was posted to No.4 ITW at Paignton, Devon where I was to spend the next twelve weeks living hi the Hydro Hotel, right on the seafront near the harbour.
Twelve weeks of intensive ground training. At the end of this period I was at the peak of fitness and having passed my exams was promoted LAC - pay rise to seven shillings per day.

'This story was submitted to the People's War site by Rod Aldwinckle of the CSV Action Desk on behalf of John Derek Bailey and has been added to the site with his / permission. The author fully understands the site's terms and conditions

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