Meeting with Prof Jim Monaghan, from Harper Adams University, who recently signed the military covenant, and Dr Maurice Price, prominent local GP trainer, discussing opportunities for Veterans.

Was fortunate to finally meet surgeon captain Steve Bree, who we all know by reputation. Hopefully Defence will continue to benefit from his vast experience. Also, many thanks to Commodore Hofman for making my family and I feel so welcome at the palace.

I missed this yesterday. The anniversary of the Battle of Agincourt 25th Oct 1415. ~7000 dead, goodness knows how many injured. ……….. would have been a busy day for defence medical services. “….For he today that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother….”

Very fortunate to be asked to the Irish Guards association dinner. A great evening, great people, great history. Met guardsman Seamus. (not a GSD, I know, but a superb dog!) Quis Separabit! Irish Guards

The Stanmore distal femoral knee replacement recently ceased production. The MUTARS by Implantcast is straightforward and allows femoral rotation to be decided after cementation. We were well supported by Mr Stuart McNally too!

Many thanks to the local RAMC assoc who provided us with a new, high quality, Corps flag. In the wind it flies like a winner! (We will, of course, need to get a RAMS flag too. Has anyone seen it yet?)

Bilateral knees. Only for patients hard as nails! Solid work everyone involved.

Received this superb hand crafted bowl from a Veteran. My registrar, Mr Banks, a fellow wood-turner, has pointed out the impressive techniques required to achieve this. He was v impressed! (Mr Cathcart occasionally does gifts & commissions for good causes - tel: 07971 059591.)

Mad Jacks 5 at Attingham Park. It was v muddy. Need to get our new VOS running gear ordered. Possibly should get some hats too.

On Remembrance Sunday we primarily think of the military. Of equal importance are the sacrifices made by families, emergency services and civilians who have also suffered through conflict and terrorism.

Great Remembrance Sunday lunch with the Shrewsbury RAMC association. Met lots of old friends and the food at Ego at the Grapes was excellent……….. didn’t need any dinner this evening!

More pictures from the Shrewsbury RAMC assoc Remembrance Lunch. Lots of discussion about the future and how best to incorporate newer members who will be RAMS. Our corps history is important!

Remembrance service at RJAH yesterday. Led by our hospital padre, Simon Airey. Well attended, as usual. Always very moving.

“Runners High” - thought to be due to endorphins. However research from John Hopkins Uni suggests it’s more likely due to endocannibinoids, natural substances, which cross the blood brain barrier. (…ill check with the anaesthetist!) Whatever the cause get your trail-shoes on!

First ever SAHA women’s football team - trailblazers! Play hard tomorrow!

Well, it wasn’t me. If smaller it would be a good bumper sticker. Hmmm……. That’s an idea.

Have a look at this theatre list of Sir Robert Jones’ from ~1913. 19 cases one week and 15 on another. What throughput!! …... and how often do you get an assistant who’s going to get a VC & bar!

Last week on exercise with 202MMR. Sleeping under canvas has some benefits, like beautiful sunsets. The simulation though is getting more realistic.

Happy Christmas! Get out, get some fresh air, feel better!

There have been many attempts to fly the Veterans Orthopaedic Service flag but Morocco is the best so far ……… it’s a blockbuster! (And a proper dog too…….)