My Unforgettable Day with the Red Arrows

Written by Jonathan Patterson.

I’ve always been captivated by the Red Arrows, and the chance to see them up close at RAF Waddington was a dream come true.

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Left: Presenting in front of the Red Arrows who are taxiing to the runway at RAF Waddington Middle: I had to take a picture with the Hawk Jet MKII Right: My interview with Red 10, Graeme Muscat

Our day began in the early morning as we arrived at the base, passing through tight security checks with a sense of mounting excitement. We eagerly awaited our Red Arrows escort, who would take us to the heart of their operations.

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As soon as we stepped off the Red Arrows mini-bus, the deafening roar of jet engines filled the air. We hurried to the viewing point only metres away from the runway, as the Red Arrows formed up and took off in a stunning, orchestrated formation.

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The Red Arrows taking off at RAF Waddington

For the next 20-30 minutes, the Red Arrows captivated us with their brand-new display for their 60th Diamond Season. Their daring barrel rolls, incredibly close manoeuvres, and crowd favourites like the Tornado left us in awe. The nine Hawk Jets flew overhead in an awe-inspiring sight, the thunderous noise was incredible. Starting with Red 1, each jet gracefully peeled away to land, marking the end of an unforgettable performance.

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Some incredible manoeuvres and formations from the Red Arrows 60th Season display

In need of a moment to absorb the experience, we decided to grab a cup of coffee. Within five minutes, a group of officers entered, with distinct marks around their ears from wearing some sort of helmets. It was then that I realised these were the Red Arrows pilots themselves, casually grabbing their coffees in their Red Arrows mugs. I was in complete awe of these men, who moments ago were hurtling through the clouds at over 500 mph.

Our RAF contact informed us that we only had a few minutes before debrief with the pilots. Led by Red One, Jon Bond, the meeting was a fascinating insight into their meticulous process. Each pilot critiqued their performance, highlighting areas for improvement and discussing how to perfect their manoeuvres for the next sortie that day. I was amazed to learn that the Red Arrows conduct these sorties and debriefs three times a day, every day, to ensure their displays are flawless and maintain their public display authority.

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A Red Arrows debrief led by Red 1, Jon Bond, here pilots watch there display moments after flying and critique their performance

Next, we had the privilege of meeting and interviewing Red 10, Graeme Muscat. He shared insights about the Red Arrows, their intense manoeuvres, their strong focus on teamwork, and how they are a beacon for Great Britain, flying the red, white, and blue all over the world.

We were incredibly excited to show Graeme the brand-new 50p coins specially made to celebrate the 60th Diamond Season of the Red Arrows. His elation was clear as he smiled and said, “I think it’s amazing… I can keep that one, right?”

Watch the full interview with Red 10, Graeme Muscat.

Our day with the Red Arrows was nothing short of extraordinary. From witnessing their breath-taking display to meeting the pilots and learning about their dedication, it was an experience that left us deeply inspired. The Red Arrows continue to be a symbol of excellence, teamwork, and pride for Great Britain.

To commemorate this special occasion, a brand-new coin range has been released to celebrate 60 years of the Red Arrows.

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>>> Click here to explore the complete Red Arrows 60th Anniversary Diamond Season coin range <<<

FIVE BRAND NEW Christmas Carol 50p COINS REVEALED

Whether it’s in person or virtually this Christmas, we are ready to start singing from the hymn sheet as one of our favourite times of year approaches. And to make it even better, we can now reveal with great excitement our brand new Christmas Carol 50p Coins!

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The tradition of singing Christmas Carols during the festive period dates back to the 19th century. In fact, it is believed that the Christmas Carol Service was invented in Truro by Edward White Benson, who later became the Archbishop of Canterbury.

These stunning new festive 50p coins celebrate some of the most renowned Christmas carols and I’m sure there are many of us, myself included, with very fond memories of singing carols throughout the festive season.

The FIVE new coins have been issued by Guernsey Treasury and are fully authorised by Her Majesty the Queen. Each feature a specially commissioned design by artist Jo Goodberry (you may remember she designed the incredibly popular Pantomime 50ps last year), including; Away in a Manger, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Little Town of Bethlehem, While Shepherds watched their flocks, and We Three Kings.

So whether you’re looking for the new centrepiece for your collection, you’re an avid 50p collector, or you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift for a loved one, I’m sure you’ll love these new 50p coins.

Find out more about the different ways you can own these wonderful Christmas Carol 50p Coins below:

The Christmas Carol 50p Brilliant Uncirculated Coin Collection Pack

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FIVE BRAND NEW 50ps have been authorised for release by Guernsey Treasury.

Over the last couple of years, new 50p coins have launched a whole new generation of collectors and so demand for these latest 50ps is expected to be very high. The coins will arrive ready to display in a customised presentation pack. You can secure the complete set of FIVE TODAY for only £30.00!

Click here to secure yours >>

The Limited Edition 2020 Christmas Carol Silver Proof 50p Coin Collection

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Strictly limited to just 2,020 worldwide.

The coins you can see here have all been struck from .925 Solid Silver to a pristine Proof finish and feature selective colour printing. Importantly, this set is one of the only ways you can own all five of these designs. None will be released individually. With an extremely limited worldwide mintage of JUST 2,020 they’re not expected to be available for long.

Click here to secure yours today >>

The 2020 Christmas Carol 50p Christmas Card

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What better way to wish family and friends a very Merry Christmas?

The new Brilliant Uncirculated ‘Hark the Herald’ Christmas 50p is the only coin from the collection to be available on its own within this stunning Christmas card. What better way is there to wish family and friends a very Merry Christmas? Priced at just £7.99 it’s the perfect way to get ahead with your Christmas shopping this year.

Click here to secure yours >>

The Christmas Carol Ultimate 50p Coin Cover

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The most limited way to own these new coins…

The ULTIMATE Stamp and Coin Cover is also available for pre-order. Featuring all five coins in Brilliant Uncirculated quality, this cover has been carefully paired with the elusive 1982 Royal Mail Christmas Carol stamps. These stamps are not easy to get hold of, and only 750 covers are being released worldwide with a postmark on the first day of Advent – 1st December 2020.

Click here to secure yours >>


Prices start from just £7.99 so if you’re interested please click here to see the whole range >>