The NLBA, (North London
Barmy Army) are known to enjoy shows and make sure every beer tent at every
show makes a profit. Well that’s the general view from outside the group.
Once accepted and having passed certain membership criteria new members are
welcomed like long lost relatives. There are numerous mottos’ that could
be used but although it’s been created and used by somebody else “One
for all and all for one” is probably the most apt.
Being much like a family unit, this club goes far beyond the green paint, grease
and oil. No matter what the problem and no matter where the problem, just one
phone call requesting assistance will have troops rallied ready for action.
To cut a long story short, one of our members, “Minty” was diagnosed
with throat cancer. He didn’t want all the pussyfooting around that usually
accompanies this terrible disease. He wanted to live life as he had done in
his 40 odd years before. So in true NLBA fashion, we verbally abused him and
dragged him to all the shows he would have attended had he been fighting fit
and made sure he joined in enjoying many pints in many beer tents. This seems
to have worked, because our man is still with us, well on the mend and paying
us all back slowly but surely.
Minty was treated at Mount Vernon Hospital, near Northwood in Middlesex. To
say thanks to this wonderful establishment, it has been the target of The NLBA’s
fund raising for the last 12 Months. On Saturday 10th May 2008, a small convoy
of green machines, consisting of a FV432, Ferret, Reo, M113 Lynx and outriders
on various military motorcycles visited Mount Vernon Hospital.
We travelled in true NLBA style, with all other road users giving way. It wasn’t
long before we arrived to see the staff of the Cancer unit eagerly awaiting
us. The vehicles were promptly marshalled into a neatly parked line (quite unusual
for the NLBA). A photo session then ensued with a large cheque being held aloft.
That’s large in size and value.
The cheque to the amount of £10,000.00 was presented to Dr Goodchild (Consultant
Oncologist), Ciora Walker (Head & Neck Specialist) & last but by no
means least Audrey Scott (McMillan Nurse). The staff were then treated to a
short road run in the ferret and M113 Lynx. On their return they had Cheshire
Cat grins, as with all 1st time passengers.
After interested onlookers which included Doctors, Nurses, Porters, Patients
and Visitors had had their photos taken and inspected the vehicles we once again
lined up into convoy formation and made tracks.
Every excuse to do something to raise some more money was considered. At War
and Peace 2007, there was some rain which led to lots of mud. Two females decided
to mud wrestle and once a crowd gathered, The NLBA charged onlookers for the
privilege. Minty’s Daughter rode as a passenger on The Wall of Death motorcycle
show. Giving rides in vehicle to children and parents at numerous shows raffles
at the monthly club nights. The list is endless - with all proceeds going to
Mt Vernon.
This just goes to show what a few people with a mission can achieve. The NLBA
are not resting there. This year we want to beat that £10,000.00, so when
you see us shaking buckets, or just asking for some loose change give a thought
for the final destination of those odd coins rattling around in your pocket