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The late Captain Bill Benton and Captain Terry Lakin formed the association in 1968. Until then, when colleagues retired, a whip round among the pilots marked the event, which resulted in varying levels of donation, sometimes with embarrassing results. They were soon joined by David Fleming, who became Treasurer, and Dennis Southgate who organised the meeting venues and retirement gifts, continuing in those roles until 2004. By encouraging serving pilots to pay the small sum of ten shillings (equivalent to £3.00 now!), but still 50p monthly via the payroll, retirees receive a suitably engraved gift of their choice from their colleagues, and an Icarus tie paid for by sponsors. Pilots are invited to join on achieving their command. Icarus retains a database of it's members and holds meetings in April and October. Retiring pilots and their partners, and members of Icarus - both serving and retired, attend these. They provide the ability to meet up with colleagues from the past, and encourage continued contact. The six monthly newsletters are posted to members, although the introduction of this website has helped to reduce the costs involved by sending the newsletter over the internet to connected members. Retired pilots who are not members are invited to join by making a one off payment of just £20. They will receive an Icarus tie and be added to the database. If you wish to take up this offer, send a cheque payable to Icarus to:- Steve Wand 6, Knightwood Close Reigate Surrey RH2 8BE |
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