BFBS Daily Dits
Daily stories from the British Armed Forces community at home and around the world. Join Lauren Mitchell and the BFBS Radio team as they link up with soldiers, sailors, aircrew and military families across the globe, sharing stories about the issues and real life experiences that matter to you. From life on deployment to life back home, BFBS Daily Dits brings you British military voices, culture and conversation in one place. With over 80 years of serving the forces community, BFBS continues to inform, connect and entertain wherever you are in the world.
Episodes
The PARAS 10 Challenge
Think you could tackle a ten-mile endurance race carrying a 45lb backpack? Ryan Galpin chat to Chris Kaye to hear about the RAF medic who took on the gruelling PARAS 10.🎖️ In this episode:Find out what the PARAS 10 involvesMeet AS1 Louis Ashley and how he trained for ten miles of hillsDiscover how the RAF Benevolent Fund supports serving and former RAF personnel🛒Fancy winning some shopping voucher
Gibraltar’s Military History: Inside the Rock
Gibraltar is full of military history, and for the Royal Engineers, it has a particularly special place in their story. Ryan Galpin talks to Greg Burnet to discover some of Gibraltar's fascinating stories and myths.🪖 In this episode:Discover why Gibraltar is so important to the Royal EngineersHear from Captain Phillip Brazier about the Great Siege tunnelsFind out about Gibraltar’s naval history an
Celebrating the BRAVOS: RAF Brize Norton’s Award Winners
The Brize Recognition Awards for Value and Outstanding Service (BRAVOS) celebrate the people making a real difference at RAF Brize Norton. Ryan Galpin caught up with Jacob Dyer to hear about the big night.🏆 In this episode:Go behind the scenes at one of RAF Brize Norton’s biggest nights of the yearHear from Squadron Leader Benjamin Hanson, recognised for his leadership during the RAF Akrotiri atta
Soldiers take part in the Highland Games in Cyprus
Daily Dits reaches a milestone with its 100th episode! Ryan Galpin catches up with BFBS Cyprus Breakfast presenter Alice Vickery to look back at this year’s Highland Games.🏴 In this episode:Hear about the tug of war, strongman competition and the all-important chain of command raceDiscover how a parachutist made a spectacular entrance with the Scottish flagHear about Alice’s DJ duties, traditional
A Space to Work: The Military Coworking Network
Working from home can make it difficult to stay focused, especially when you’re juggling family life and a career. Ryan Galpin chats to Jim Gellatly to find out how the Military Coworking Network is helping military spouses. 💻 In this episode: Find out how the Military Coworking Network helps military spouses and partners balance work and life Hear how the network support
Football, Friendships and the Dhekelia Sevens
The Dhekelia Sevens women’s football tournament has grown massively since it first began four years ago, bringing together teams from across the Forces community for a week of football, competition and fun. Ryan Galpin spoke to Alice Vickery to her all about this year’s event. ⚽ In this episode: Find out how the tournament has grown to around 15 teams Listen to the hilarious on
DJs Rickie & Melvin Bring the Party to RAF Akrotiri
Ain’t no party like a BFBS Live Events party! The team threw a series of gigs across British Forces Cyprus to say a big thank you to military families, after a challenging year. BFBS Cyprus Station Manager Ant Ballard joined the celebrations and catches up with Ryan Galpin.🥳 In this episode: Aviators at RAF Akrotiri, soldiers from 4 SCOTS and The Royal Welsh End came together to party!DJs Ri
TED Talks from Chris Ashford at Blandford Garrison
Blandford Garrison has hosted its first TED Talk-style event, bringing speakers together to explore leadership, personal identity and how to become a more effective leader. Ryan Galpin catches up with Jason Herbert to hear about the event and the inspiring messages behind it. 🎙️ In this episode: Find out how the event is helping soldiers develop their leadership skills Hear fro
Celebrating the LGBTQ+ Defence Awards
The LGBTQ+ Defence Awards have brought members of the Armed Forces community and their allies together to celebrate inclusion and recognise those making a difference. Ryan Galpin caught up with Alex Harrison to hear about the night. 🏳️🌈 In this episode: Hear about the atmosphere at this year’s awards Find out about some of the winners, including Lance Corporal Liam Cole&
Big Salute Day
Big Salute Day brought the Forces community together for a day of fundraising, challenges and stories from across the world. Ryan Galpin catches up with Jess Bracey to look back on the highlights, including an incredible £22,744 raised for military charities. 💙 In this episode: Look back at Big Salute Day, and the live broadcasts around the world Hear some of the highlights, in
A Coffee Truck with a Purpose
Every year military charities across the UK receive grants from the BFBS Big Salute. One of the beneficiaries are Forward Assist who support veterans across the North East of England. Chris Kaye caught up with Lauren Mitchell about how the charity have been using the grant to create opportunities for veterans. ☕ In this episode: Find out more about Forward Assist and the work they d
Seven Hills of Edinburgh
Mark McKenzie from BFBS Scotland has taken on his very own Big Salute challenge, walking all seven hills of Edinburgh to raise money for military charities.Lauren caught up with Mark to hear how the challenge went.🏔️ In this episode:Find out how Mark came up with the idea to take on the Seven Hills of EdinburghHear about the team who joined him for the challengeFind out why the day became about mo
Celebrating the Royal Irish Regiment Cadets
The cadets from the Royal Irish Regiment have been making the most of their opportunities, from taking part in the Veterans Day Parade to competing as part of their shooting team. Lauren spoke to Cherry Casey about what the cadets have been up to 🎯 In this episode: Meet the E Company cadets sponsored by the Royal Irish Regiment Find out how the shooting team qualified to
Celebrating LGBTQ+ Role Models in Defence
The LGBTQ+ Defence Awards take place this Thursday, celebrating role models and allies across the Armed Forces and recognising those helping to create a more inclusive Defence community. Danni G joins Lauren to chat about some of this year’s nominees and their stories. 🏳️🌈 In this episode: Find out more about the awards and why they’re important Hear how nominees a
Operation Summit: Raising a Mountain of Cash
With BFBS Big Salute Day just around the corner, Lauren talk to Jess Bracey about all things Operation Summit and the huge fundraising challenges taking place across the Forces community.🏔️ In this episode:Find out what Operation Summit is all about and how you can get involvedHear how people across the Forces community are taking on everything from mountain climbs to stair challenges to raise mon
Climbing Everest in the Netherlands
BFBS Germany headed to the Netherlands to see teams take on the Mount Everest Challenge, raising money for the Armed Force Para Snowsports Team.Jess Bracey caught up with Jade Callaway to hear all about it.🏔️ In this episode:Find out how teams tackled the equivalent height of Mount EverestHear how Armed Forces Para Snowsports helps wounded, injured and sick personnel and veterans through winter sp
Army Adventure Training in Harz Mountains Germany
Lauren Mitchell takes Daily Dits on the road and dons a hard hat to join the Army Adventure Training Wing in Germany's Harz Mountains. Swapping the studio for the great outdoors, she’s with soldiers of The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers from Tidworth tackling rock climbing designed to build soldiering skills. 🧗 In this episode:Wing Sergeant Major Tom Kirby on the wide range of adventurous traini
The Royal Gibraltar Regiment: A New Chapter
The Royal Gibraltar Regiment is preparing for a busy year of operational commitments.Jess Bracey spoke to Gini Carlin about what's ahead for the regiment and the bittersweet final chapter of Lieutenant Colonel John Pitto's time as Commanding Officer. ☀️ In this episode:Find out what’s ahead for the Royal Gibraltar Regiment as its operational tempo increasesExercises and Operations across the
The BFBS Pro League Grand Final
Hear highlights from The BFBS Pro League Grand Final at the RAF Museum in London. Lauren Mitchell gets the esports lowdown from Richard Wyeth after the three services and a civilian team battled it out for the trophy. 🎮 In this episode: A look back at a summer of esports featuring F1 25, League of Legends and Rocket League. Hear from the champions! What's coming ne
From RAF Leeming to the Big Screen
Senior Met Officer Bill Shielddods from RAF Leeming has gone from forecasting the weather to appearing in the new World War II drama Pressure.Chris Kaye spoke to Lauren about how Bill landed him the role.🎬 In this episode:Find out how Bill went from the Met Office to the big screenHear how his experience with hand-drawn weather charts helped him land the roleGet a behind-the-scenes look at the mak
Airtanker: Supporting the Forces at RAF Brize Norton
Airtanker has been recognised with a Gold Armed Forces Covenant Award for its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.Gemma-Leigh James told Lauren all about the achievement.✈️ In this episode:Find out about Airtanker and how they support the RAFHear how Airtanker’s sponsored reservist programme brings together civilian and military expertiseHow Airtanker are helping inspire young girl
Invictus Games Birmingham 2027: Inspiring the Next Generation
The countdown to the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 is on! As part of the launch, Invictus Foundation and The Education Exchange West Midlands have teamed up to create ‘INSPIRE’ - bringing lessons of resilience and mental fitness to classrooms. Lydia Tester found out more and joins Lauren Mitchell. 🫡In this episode:The launch saw Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, go back to school, joining fo
HMS Queen Elizabeth on Parade
More than 250 sailors from HMS Queen Elizabeth have marched through Edinburgh as the ship's company exercised its Freedom of the City.Mark McKenzie tells Lauren all about the parade.🥁 In this episode:Hear from HMS Queen Elizabeth’s Commanding Officer, Captain Claire ThompsonDiscover how the ship’s company are balancing celebrations with preparations for their next phaseChat of the F-35 flypast!&nb
Judo, Teamwork and a Few Pretzel Moves
Judo might be an individual sport, but at the UK Armed Forces Judo Championships, teamwork and inter-service spirit are just as important.George Wedlake headed to HMS Nelson to find out more about the competition and told Lauren all about the day.🥋 In this episode:What makes judo such an intricate and fast-paced sportHear from Royal Marines Commando and former Team GB judoka Chris SherringtonWhy J
The 2026 Armed Forces Community Awards
Serving personnel, veterans, families and supporters were brought together to celebrate some of the incredible people and organisations making a difference across the military community at the Armed Forces Community Awards.Lauren Mitchel spoke to Natasha Renaux who got dressed up for the event, to hear all about the night.🏆 In this episodeNatasha takes us behind the scenes at the Armed Forces Comm
RAF Benson's Spitfire
RAF Benson has given its iconic gate guardian a new lease of life. The Spitfire has been refurbished and was rededicated on the 86th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.Lauren Mitchell chats to BFBS's Jacob Dyer about the special ceremony and the story behind the aircraft.✈️ In this episodeFind out what a gate guardian isDiscover the story of Flight Sergeant William “Bill” JohnsonPlus hear about
Touchdowns & Teamwork: Army American Football
American football is making its mark in the Armed Forces, with flag football offering a fun, non-contact way to get into the sport. Lauren spoke to BFBS Colchester's Ashley Paul after he headed to the Military Corrective Training Centre to find out more about Tri-Service flag football! 🏈 In this episode Find out what flag football is! How American football is growing within the
Posted to JFC Brunssum?
What can you expect from a new posting to Joint Force Command, Brunssum - the NATO command headquarters in the Netherlands? The military community came together to welcome newly posted service families with world cuisine, culture and live music at the Newcomers & Families’ Day. BFBS Germany presenter, Jade Callaway visited the event and catches up with Lauren Mitchell. 🥳 In this episode:How ne
Exercise Greenland Legacy 26
The first ever military team has just completed an epic adventure training expedition to Greenland. Exercise Greenland Legacy 26 saw the tri-service team replicate Fridtjof Nansen's journey to and across Greenland in 1888. BFBS presenter Lydia Tester spoke to some of the crew about their experiences, and she shares more with Gini Carlin.🫡In this episode:Team Leader Lieutenant Colonel Tony Lancashi
Commemorating 9/11: Falkland Island Fire Section’s Memorial Climb
To mark the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the United States, firefighters in the Falkland Islands took part in a memorial stair climb at Longdon Gym. The team took to Stair Masters, climbing the equivalent of 110 flights of stairs - matching each of the height of the World Trade Centre towers – to remember the 343 firefighters who lost their lives. Supporting their counterparts worl
Red, White and Rock Solid: Gibraltar’s National Day
Today is National Day, the biggest day of the year for Gibraltar. On the Rock it’s a national holiday and sees people dress in red and white and throw a party. But behind the celebrations, music, food and good times, the day holds a great deal of significance for proud Gibraltarians. Gini Carlin heads to Casemates Square to experience the day’s celebrations.🥳 In this episodeLieutenant Colonel John
Fit for Battle: The RAF's new Functional Fitness Championships
At RAF Cosford the very first Royal Air Force Functional Fitness Championships were held. The phys activities incorporate strength, mobility, balance, and coordination – to train aviators’ bodies for real-world combat demands. BFBS Forces News reporter Joe Hearne attended the championships and joins Lauren Mitchell for the lowdown.🏋️ In this episode:Squadron Leader Abi Bagshaw, Chair of the R
The Royal Regiment of Scotland Awarded Freedom of Inverclyde
The Royal Regiment of Scotland was honoured with the first-ever Freedom of Inverclyde, marking a significant moment in the regiment's 20th anniversary year. Serving soldiers and veterans proudly paraded through Gourock, Greenock and Port Glasgow. Lauren Mitchell catches up with BFBS Scotland's Jim Gellatly, who attended the ceremony and parade. 🫡 In this episodeLt Col (Retd) Jonathan Tink, Regimen
SHAPE Fest: NATO's Families Day
At Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe – SHAPE in Belgium, the community of 32 NATO nations came together for SHAPE Fest - one of the year’s biggest events. From international food to live music and military traditions to cultural displays, SHAPE Fest brings together all allied nations at this annual event. BFBS Germany presenters, Curtis Tyler and Lauren Mitchell attended and look back on a
Inside the Met Office: Forecasting for Defence
From deciding if aircraft can fly, to helping commanders plan military operations, the meteorological office play a key role across Defence.Lauren Mitchell speaks to Karl Lambert to find out how the Met Office continue to forecast for the British armed forces.🌦️ In this episodeWhy accurate weather forecasting is critical to military operations.Find out how meteorologist, Flight Lieutenant Nicola J
Tattoo Cymru: A Military Spectacular in Wales
The prestigious Tattoo Cymru is staged at William Aston Hall, Wrexham. The concert tells the story of Royal Marines and seafarers whose service is rooted in Welsh history. The Royal Marines Association Concert Band and a host of musical acts bring a blend of pipers, drummers, singers, dancers, drill teams for a display of military precision, pomp and pageantry. Kam Kelly joins Lauren Mitchel
Rockets, Robots and Coding at the RAF Brize Norton STEM Camp
Forget screens, homework and being told not to touch things, children at RAF Brize Norton got stuck into an interactive STEM camp. Designed to make science, technology, engineering and maths, exciting, this hands-on course saw children – many from families with parents in the military – take on engineering-based challenges and discover where STEM subjects could take them in the future. BFBS Brize
2 Para's Op Pitting Memorial run in the Falklands
2 Para’s B Company have taken on a half marathon in the Falkland Islands to remember those who lost their lives during the attack on Kabul airport attack during Op Pitting 2021.Lauren Mitchell is joined by Tom Paine to hear more about the memorial event.🏃 In this episodeHear from those taking part in the challengeMajor Aaron shares his personal account of the eventsHow the memorial event brought t
Edinburgh’s Big August
August has transformed Edinburgh into a city full of music, comedy, theatre and art – and BFBS Scotland has been right in the middle of it. Lauren Mitchell speaks to Mark McKenzie to look back at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. 🎭 In this episode What makes the Edinburgh Fringe such a huge part of life every year in August How Project Comedy
Art on the Rock
Gibraltar’s famous Barbary macaques have inspired a new trail of colourful sculptures across the Rock. One of these monkey statues was created by talented young artist Phoebe Noble, a military child.Lauren Mitchell catches up with BFBS Gibraltar’s Greg Burnet.🎨 In this episodeFind out about the new Jump Around Gibraltar trailHow Phoebe’s dad reacted to the sculptures revealAnd how the artists, you
The Woman Commanding NATO’s Task Force in the High North
Commodore Maryla Ingham is one of the Royal Navy’s most senior female leaders. She’s been commanding Standing Nato Maritime Group One, Iceland. The task force provides a visible deterrent guarding vital undersea communications - everything from online banking to booking a holiday. BFBS Forces News’ reporter James Wharton went to meet her aboard the flagship HMCS Ville de Québec, in Reykjavík
Breaking the Silence on Women's Health in Defence
Breaking the Silence on Women's Health in DefenceLance Bombardier Annie Robertson has turned her personal experiences of Endometriosis and pregnancy loss into advocating for greater awareness and support when it comes to the health of service women. Lauren Mitchell is joined by BFBS UK presenter Lydia Tester to talk about a subject affecting thousands of women. ⚕️In this episode:
Infantry Battalion Handover in Cyprus
The Princess Wales’s Royal Regiment is leaving Cyprus after two years on the island, making way for the Welsh Guards to take over as the new infantry battalion in Episkopi.Lydia Tester chats to Anthony Ballard, the BFBS Cyprus Station Manager, to hear all about the handover.🏝️ In this episodeHow 1PWRR and the Welsh Guard completed their handoverHow the Welsh Guards are settling inWhat’s in store f
New homes for forces families in Cyprus
New homes are being built for service families in Cyprus as part of the apollo project. Lydia Tester speaks to BFBS Cyprus reporter Will Hollis to find out what the new homes are like. 🏠 In this episode A look into the brand-new homes in DhekeliaHow the homes are being future proofed with seismic complianceWhat’s next for the Apollo Programme🎮 LISTEN to The LobbySir Pigasus cleared
Laughter's the Best Medicine: Former Army Medic Takes to Edinburgh Fringe
Former soldier Rich Bunn is an award-winning stand-up comedian returning to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year. A semi-finalist of the event’s prestigious ‘So You Think You’re Funny’ competition last year, his military-themed show features storytelling about his time in the British Army. Kam Kelly caught up with the stand-up star and shares his story with Lydia Tester. 🎤In this episode:&
Meet ‘The Nauti Girls’ Taking on the RNRMC Race Across the UK
Meet ‘The Nauti Girls’ Taking on the RNRMC Race Across the UK The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) has launched its ‘Race Across the UK’ fundraising challenge. The mission? Travel from Dartmouth to Inverness in Scotland in just four days, without using a car, flying, or relying on map apps, all while raising vital funds for the Naval community. Lydia Tester is joined by George Wed
Military child competes in the Commonwealth Games
At just 14 years old, Katie Maddocks has represented Gibraltar in this year’s Commonwealth Games. Lydia caught up with Greg Burnet to hear about Katie’s experience competing in Glasgow.🏊In this episode:What it was like for Katie to make her Commonwealth Games DebutHow growing up as a military child has helped with resilienceAnd how to balance school with training📻Want to discover new music?Wi
The RAF take on the British Superbike Championship
The British Superbike Championship roared into Thruxton, but alongside the high-speed action was a team using motorsports to change lives of wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans. Lydia Tester is joined by Richard Wyeth to hear about his visit to the track 🏍️ In this episode What the British Superbike Championship is Balancing military life with competitive r
Taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks for the BFBS Big Salute
Taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks for the BFBS Big Salute Want to help us raise money for forces charities? Get involved with the BFBS Big Salute Op Summit challenge! BFBS’s Richard Hatch will be tackling the Yorkshire Three Peaks in aid of six small charities supporting the military community. Rich tells Lauren about his plans and the favours he’s pulling from some famous faces
Bringing the Community together at the Leuchars Families Day
Leuchars Station opened its doors for a day of fairground rides, music, food and activities for it’s annual Families and community day.Lauren Michell is joined by BFBS Scotland’s Jim Gellatly to find out more about the event...🎡 In this episodeThe history of Leuchars stationFairground rides, ice cream, and a Harrier cockpit!Royal Scots Dragoon Guards talk about their history and life at LeucharsA
The Female RAF Officer who Swam the Channel
The Female RAF Officer who Swam the ChannelSquadron Leader Nic MacKay from RAF Honington, Suffolk, has achieved one of the toughest challenges in sport - completing a solo swim of the English Channel in just over 10 hours. Lydia Tester shares this amazing story with Lauren Mitchell.🏊In this episode:Find out what motivated Squadron Leader Nic MacKay to take on this epic open water swim.How she bala
Sun, Sand and Serious Fitness at The Flamingo Throwdown in Cyprus
Sun, Sand and Serious Fitness at The Flamingo Throwdown in CyprusRyan Galpin joins Lauren Mitchell to talk about taking on The Flamingo Throwdown beachside workout at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus.🦩In this episode:The Flamingo Throwdown competitors face a tough mix of strength, endurance and CrossFit-style beach-based physical challenges.Captain Janet Poon puts Ryan through his paces in the mixed pairs cat
Putting the Royal in The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Hundreds of performers from around the world have gathered at the Castle Esplanade for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.Lauren Mitchell speaks to Mark McKenzie to find out what goes on behind the scenes for one of the biggest events in the military calendar...🎺 In this episodeWhat happens during the frantic final days of rehearsalsWe hear from the Tattoo’s Chief Executive, creative team and RAF
Talk to Me, Valley
RAF Valley’s Families Day is the biggest behind-the-scenes look at the people, aircraft and community that keep one of the RAF’s busiest training stations flying. It’s an opportunity for loved ones to explore the UK’s equivalent of Top Gun. Lauren chats to Jess Bracey whilst she’s on the ground in Anglesey soaking up the atmosphere and finding out why Families Day means so much to those at RA
Training Beyond The Trade
RAF Reservists have been swapping their usual roles for urban warfare training alongside the Army at Ballykinler Training Area in Northern Ireland. Personnel have stepped out of their comfort zones to build the skills and teamwork needed for future operations. Lauren chats to Rachael Price to hear why training together across the services is becoming more important than ever. 🎖️ In this
Battle Honours Commemorated at Minden Day
Minden Day is one of the British Army's most enduring traditions, but what's the story behind this battle honour and why does it matter today?Lauren Mitchell is joined by BFBS Germany's Curtis Tyler to explore the military history and significance of Minden Day, commemorated annually in Minden, Germany. ⚔️In this episode· The fascinating story o
A Lasting Tribute to the Airborne Assault Brigade
More than 2,000 people gather in Colchester for the unveiling of a new Airborne Solider statue, celebrating 25 years of 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team calling the city home.Lauren's joined by BFBS Colchester’s Ashley Paul and Peter Johnson to talk about the emotional ceremony, arduous planning and why the statue means so much to the military and local community.🪂 In this episodeThe new symbol
Training for Tomorrow’s Battlefield
RAF Aviators and Army soldiers have been put to the test during Exercise Greyhound Thunder at RAF Odiham. Lauren caught up with Natasha Reneaux, to hear about seeing the exercise up close. 🚁 In this episode A rundown on Natasha’s many recent adventures to RAF Odiham The new specialist equipment helping air crews in the training Plus, why RAF bases always have the bes
On the Road to JFC Brunssum
Lauren Mitchell has visited JFC Brunssum in the Netherlands to discover how King's Camps is helping military children stay active, make friends and create unforgettable summer memories.Along the way, she finds out what life is like at one of NATO's key operational headquarters.🏃 In this episodeA behind-the-scenes look at life at JFC Brunssum and the UK's National Support ElementLauren swaps the mi
All change at RAF Brize Norton as the current Station Commander says goodbye
A new chapter is about to begin at RAF Brize Norton. After two years in command, Group Captain Louise Henton’s tenure as Station Commander is complete. Before she left, she sat down with BFBS to reflect on the last two years, what it’s like being responsible for a station that keeps the RAF moving around the world and what makes her proud of the station. Lauren Mitchell catches up with Gemma-
Fundraise For Military Charities with the BFBS Big Salute Op Summit Challenge
The BFBS Big Salute is our annual campaign that raises vital funds for armed forces charities. Each year we invite forces charities to apply for grants to support specific projects for the serving military, families and veterans.Since it started in 2007 the Big Salute has raised over £1.5 million, and has supported over 54 charities Lauren Mitchell catches up with Jess Bracey to find out abou
The Best Day of the School Year?
Pupils at Queen Berengaria School in Dhekelia Barracks swapped classrooms for clouds of colourful powder as they took part in the school’s annual Colour Run.Lauren Mitchell catches up with Ryan Galpin to find out why he couldn’t resist getting involved in the fun. 🌈 In this episode:What makes the Queen Berengaria School Colour Run such a highlight in the school calendarHow the event ra
Farnborough Airshow Inspiring Future Generations
We are in the middle of airshow season and one event that has got lots of people talking is the Farnborough Airshow. Around 1,600 exhibitors, spanning commercial aviation, defence, space, advanced air mobility, manufacturing, AI, and sustainability. On Friday there was a renewed "Pioneers of Tomorrow" public day, aimed at inspiring future engineers, pilots, and scientists.Lauren Mi
Where Farming Meets the Forces
The Armed Forces have been showcasing themselves at Europe's biggest agricultural event, The Royal Welsh Show.Lauren Mitchell catches up with BFBS Social Media's Toby Pickard to find out more about the day.🌾 In this episodeWhy the Armed Forces are at the Royal Welsh ShowWhat visitors can see and get involved withHow the Army is engaging with young people and local communitiesToby's highlights from
Walking Across Cyprus for the Cadet Force
Two instructors from the Cyprus Army Cadet Force have walked 87 miles across Cyprus in the middles of a heatwave to raise money for charity. Lauren Mitchell catches up with BFBS Cyprus Hal Stewart to hear how the epic challenge unfolded – from unexpected detours to blistered feet and soaring temperatures. 🥾 In this episode Why two Army Cadet Force instructors walked from Episkopi to
RAF Benevolent Fund Supporting Financial Hardship
The RAF Benevolent Fund is one of the charities supporting serving RAF personnel, veterans and their families when they face financial hardship or need extra help.When former RAF serviceman Matt Neve faced financial uncertainty, following injury and major life changes, the RAF Benevolent Fund provided vital support, helping to ease pressures and enabling him to rebuild his life
Gas Masks in the Cyprus Sun
Soldiers from First Battalion Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment have been putting on their gas masks as they complete Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) training before returning to the UK. Lauren Mitchell catches up with BFBS Cyprus reporter Will Hollis to find out why the training is so important and what life has been like for the battalion during their two-year d
Farewell to the World Cup
The final of the 2026 World Cup took place last night with Spain beating Argentina 1-0 after extra time. With military personnel watching the matches across the forces world, how did they get involved? Lauren Mitchell and Jade Callaway share their experiences of following the fixtures in Germany ⚽ In this episode Group chats go international as the fo
University Officer Training Corps Cadets Experience the Bundeswehr
University Officer Training Corps (UOTC) cadets from the UK have visited Augustdorf in Germany, for a unique opportunity to learn from the Bundeswehr, the German army. Lauren Mitchell and Curtis Tyler followed them on their exercise 🫡In this episode WO2 Jans Vander of the Bundeswehr outlines how the trip’s fostered interoperability and international partnership between t
School of Rock with the British Army Band Catterick
Musicians from British Army Band Catterick have helped children at Sacred Heart Primary School in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, turn their ideas and lyrics into an original recorded song.Chris Kaye headed to a recording session and catches up with Lauren Mitchell. 🎺In this episode What’s life like as a musician in British Army Band Catterick? Discover the unique opportunitie
Netball fun with the AGC Warriors in Gibraltar
The Adjutant General’s Corps Warriors Netball team have been busy training in Gibraltar. Whilst on tour, they also lead a netball session with military children. Jacob Dyer met the players and catches up with Lauren Mitchell. 🏀️In this episode: Lieutenant Colonel Lorraine Thomas, Chair of AGC Netball, on developing the next generation of players - blending experienced athlet
On board with the Head of The Royal Navy: An unfiltered conversation
We take you behind the scenes of an exclusive, access all areas interview with the First Sea Lord, General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, aboard HMS Daring at HMNB Portsmouth. Tim Cooper from Forces News joins Lauren Mitchell to talk through what it was really like to spend time with the man in charge of the Royal Navy. ⚓In this episode: The First Sea Lord says “morale’s high and th
Shooting Drones out of the Sky with 1 Rifles
Soldiers of 1st Battalion The Rifles have conducted experimental counter drone exercises on Sennybridge Training Area in the Brecon Beacons, Wales. BFBS's Toby Pickard was there and joins Lauren Mitchell. 🪖 In this episode: Riflemen test identifying, tracking and jamming enemy drone threats in pioneering training Learn how drone warfare is shaping and
Myth-busting about Life in the Army
The Army Engagement Team host a “Meet Your Army” showcase in Colchester, giving students, school-leavers and local businesses the chance to find out what it’s really like to be in the armed forces. Ashley Paul tells Lauren Mitchell all about it. 🪖In this episode: Busting common myths about the military Young people explore the vast array of careers in the British A
Soldiers in Edinburgh Celebrate Salamanca Day
3 Battalion The Rifles have been commemorating the Duke of Wellington’s 1812 victory at the Battle of Salamanca. Mark McKenzie and Jim Gellatly from BFBS Scotland tell Lauren Mitchell how it was marked at Dreghorn Barracks. Content Warning: this episode features the sound of gunshots 🫡 In this episode: What is Salamanca Day? Jim gives us a history lesson. How do 3 Rifles
Military Volunteers at Wimbledon Tennis Championships
Tim Humphries joins Lauren Mitchell to explore the tennis tournament’s close connection with the British armed forces. 🎾 In this episode: Volunteers from the British Army and the Royal Navy reflect on the prestige and pride they feel serving as stewards on court this year A bittersweet moment for one sailor serving at SW19 in memory of his brother Hear the fascinati
Sennelager Summer Fete: Tanks, Welly-Wanging and Operation Ice Cream
Lauren Mitchell and Curtis Tyler look back on a fun-packed community day in the sunshine at the Garrison Summer Fete. 🍦 In this episode: Why the Fete is such an important thank-you to service personnel and families posted to Germany. Lauren climbs into a Challenger 2 tank and gets up close to the M3 amphibious rig with 23 Amphibious Engineer Squadron. There’s som
Who won the Field Gun Competition at HMS Collingwood?
The Royal Navy’s biggest training base, HMS Collingwood has held its annual open day and hosted the historic Field Gun competition. But who won bragging rights? George Ryland was there and tells Lauren Mitchell all about it. ⚓ In this episode: Behind the scenes at the historic Field Gun competition Find out who won the coveted Brickwoods Trophy HMS
A Heartwarming Farewell for the CBF Gibraltar
After a four-year tenure as Commander British Forces Gibraltar, Tom Guy waves goodbye and sets sail for the next chapter. BFBS Gini Carlin tells Lauren Mitchell about the special send-off... ⛵ In this episode: Visitors to the Rock A final farewell for CBF Tom Guy Highlights of Tom’s time in command And who’s the new CBF? 📻 Fancy more to listen to? BFBS SITRE
REME Captain takes on Three Ultra Marathons
Captain James Harris of REME is taking on an extraordinary fundraising challenge: three ultra marathons in four months. BFBS’s Richard Wyeth gives Lauren Mitchell all the details. 🏃♂️ In this episode: A look back at the Jurassic Ultra A summer holiday won’t stop preparations Nearly £3000 raised for Help for Heroes Can he conquer the final and toughest run
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RHISE: Real History in Simple English (B2-C1, British)
Outsiding
Why? with Emma Kennedy
British English Listening Practice - English Go! Podcast
The English Podcast
The Rest Is Science
