The Welfare Facilities of Headquarters 7th Armoured Brigade and 207 Signal Squadron have recently been given a complete revamp along with a new name ‘Jerboas’. The initial suggestion of redecoration came from Maj Andy Greenfield OC 207 Signal Squadron, new Welfare Officer Capt Rick Newman, never one to turn down a challenge, took about the task.

Jerboas now has a fresh, modern and most importantly welcoming environment for soldiers and families where everyone is welcome to enjoy the new facilities which include the new, well stocked café area where a wide range of fresh produce from paninis to muffins can be enjoyed. The café boasts a new state of the art coffee machine which offers most hot beverages imaginable from espresso, café latte and cappuccino to regular coffee and hot chocolate.

There is sports room named the ‘Barsby Room’ after Sig Scott Barsby who sadly passed away in 2008. The Barsby Room is home to a pool table, comfortable seating and a large flat screen TV generously provided by the Hohne SSAFA Committee.

Capt Rick Newman UWO, Brigadier Nick Welch

The PRI shop is well stocked and modern, from items such as candles and gift ideas to berets there is also the popular Red Rat Memorabilia including Red Rat Port. There are future plans to house a Barbers Shop in Jerboas. 

Funding for the refurbishment came from the BFG Welfare Fund, Commanders Fund and Unit Funds. A lot of assistance was given by members of the Garrison in the timely completion with special thanks to Garrison QM Maj (rtd) Johnny Sewell, Maj (rtd) Bob Hagan, QM 32 Engineer Regiment Maj Dave Croll, Mr Johns Starsmore, Peter and Peter the painters, Mrs Heather Bodily, Mrs Heather Morecock and Welfare Clerk Mrs Paula Oulton. Capt Rick Newman said “the refurbishment wouldn’t have been possible without the drive, determination and assistance provided by the fantastic team of helpers and to all of them I am hugely grateful.”