News
February 21st 2022
NAAFI Fund grant to 350 Field Squadron, 101 Engineer Regiment
350 Field Squadron purchased eight mountain bikes using a grant from the NAAFI Fund.
The NAAFI Fund comes from funding made available by the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes (NAAFI). It awarded a grant to 350 Field Squadron, 101 Engineer Regiment, to purchase eight mountain bikes, stands and accessories.
350 Field Squadron – also known as the Robin Hood Foresters – is part of 101 Engineer Regiment. 101 Regiment is the only British Army Reserve, Explosive Ordinance Disposal and Search unit.
The Squadron tested out their new kit at Sherwood Pines.
Using the grant awarded through the NAAFI Fund, the Squadron sourced the bikes through a local business. Two different styles were purchased to account for a range of ability and confidence, including a few 29-inch hardtail mountain bikes for the more experienced riders.
After delays in deliveries and activities due to Covid, the Squadron have finally been able to take the new equipment out for the first time. Starting with a flat route at Sherwood Pines near Nottingham, the group progressed to the more challenging Cannock Chase in Staffordshire the next day, which featured a lot more climbs and descents.
The NAAFI Fund makes grants to UK Armed Forces bases, located in the UK or overseas, for projects that improve the quality of life for serving personnel and serving families living on or near a Forces base or station.
The Armed Forces Covenant Trust administers the NAAFI Fund on behalf of the Institute. The Trust supports the Armed Forces Covenant by delivering funding programmes that create real change for Armed Forces communities across the UK.
Sergeant Carl Evans commented: “The new bikes improved the experience for the riders, giving them greater confidence and interest in mountain biking.”
The Squadron plan to get the bikes out again during a visit to Loch Ness, planned for April.
Want to get out and about? The Reserve Forces have lots of opportunities for adventure training. Find out more.
