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Last time we spoke about the reaction after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. After four years of fighting Japan almost alone, China's Chiang Kai-shek learned of Pearl Harbor with profound relief. Japan's attack, meant to neutralize American naval power, instead galvanized the entire Western world against Tokyo. Within hours, Chiang declared war on the Axis powers, transforming China from an isolated nation to a recognized Allied member. The strategic mathematics were clear to Chiang: America's industrial might would ultimately crush Japan. China simply needed to survive long enough. The United States quickly formalized this partnership, pledging military support through Lend-Lease and elevating Chiang to leadership of Allied forces in the China theater. Yet Pearl Harbor brought catastrophe for Western civilians in China. Americans and Britons, previously protected as neutral foreigners, were suddenly rounded up and interned in camps. For many, decades of presence in China ended in hasty evacuation, leaving behind lives built over generations.   #216 The Battle of Hong Kong Part 1: The Approaching Storm Welcome to the Fall and Rise of China Podcast, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about the history of Asia? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on history of asia and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel where I cover the history of China and Japan from the 19th century until the end of the Pacific War. Japan emerged as a significant threat to British interests during the 1920s following the collapse of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance. This concern intensified dramatically after Japan's invasion of China, with the ensuing Sino-Japanese War escalating tensions further. British assets in the region came under direct assault, including attacks on Western military and commercial vessels such as HMS Ladybird. Yet despite these provocations, the British Government maintained an inconsistent stance toward Japan, responding with only feeble diplomatic and military countermeasures. This contradiction characterized London's approach: while diplomatic channels remained conciliatory, military planners viewed Japan with genuine apprehension. During the 1930s, Singapore and Malaya represented Britain's most valuable and prosperous holdings in the Far East and consequently received substantial garrison reinforcements. By contrast, Hong Kong was widely acknowledged to be indefensible—a conclusion reached repeatedly by successive military studies. Despite this consensus, the British Government proceeded with the Hong Kong Defence Scheme in 1936, which aimed to transform Hong Kong Island into a fortified redoubt while establishing delaying positions in Kowloon and the New Territories. The Hong Kong Garrison's mandate was straightforward: repel external attacks and prevent enemy use of the harbour and dry dock. The underlying strategy relied on a simple principle: hold Hong Kong Island as an impregnable fortress and await relief from the Royal Navy. Consequently, protecting the harbour became the paramount objective. Japanese strategists were correctly identified as Hong Kong's primary threat, with military planners anticipating attack from the sea rather than overland. To counter such an offensive, the defence scheme incorporated five successive layers of protection: naval mines fitted with indicator nets and anti-submarine booms formed the first barrier; coastal artillery provided the second; beach installations featuring pillboxes, wire entanglements and mines constituted the third; infantry strongpoints positioned on commanding heights guarded against amphibious landings; and finally, a mobile reserve force stood ready to counterattack and eliminate any successful enemy incursion. The 1936 plan also mandated extensive fortification of Kowloon's bottleneck approaches through bunkers, trenches and blocked passages, with a principal defensive line—resembling a miniature Maginot Line—constructed across the mountains immediately north of Kowloon. The garrison structure comprised three infantry battalions plus the Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps (HKVDC), a unit approximately regiment-strength equipped with armoured cars, engineers, artillery, anti-aircraft guns and infantry. These forces organized into three brigades: mainland, island, and garrison reserve. The air component was planned to be formidable: a reconnaissance squadron, a fighter-bomber squadron, two torpedo squadrons and a flight of auxiliary spotting aircraft operated by the HKVDC. Naval forces consisted of a modest destroyer contingent, an MTB flotilla, gunboats and patrol vessels. When Japan occupied Guangzhou, Hong Kong found itself effectively encircled. In response, limited conscription was implemented, though restricted to non-Chinese males for HKVDC service. Chinese personnel were largely confined to non-combat positions such as air-raid precautions and medical duties. The expanding Japanese threat prompted a substantial expansion of the Hong Kong Garrison to four regular infantry regiments—two British units (one specializing in medium machine-gun support) and two Indian regiments. Supporting forces included two coastal artillery regiments, a field artillery regiment-plus, and an anti-aircraft regiment. The Royal Navy expanded to include the 2nd MTB flotilla (eight 60-foot, 29-knot motor torpedo boats armed with twin torpedoes and eight Lewis guns each, plus two smaller 55-foot vessels), four shallow-draught river gunboats (HMS Cicala, Tern, Moth and Robin), four aging World War I S-class destroyers (HMS Thracian, Thanet, Scout and Tenedos—the last transferred to Singapore in 1939), HMS Cornflower sloop, and various auxiliary vessels including tugs, boom defence ships and minelayers. The Fleet Air Arm deployed three Supermarine Walruses—single-engine reconnaissance amphibians—at Kai Tak Airport. The Royal Air Force remained the weakest service, equipped with only four Vickers Wildebeest torpedo-bombers and a handful of HKVDC aircraft: one Avro Tutor, two Hornet Moths and two Cadet biplanes. When World War II erupted in Europe, Britain's focus necessarily shifted to national survival, inevitably leaving distant imperial outposts like Hong Kong neglected. Rather than receive reinforcements, Hong Kong actually lost capable personnel; many veteran troops were repatriated to Europe, leaving behind a less proficient garrison. Peacetime duties had proven a poor preparation for combat—officers and men had passed their time socializing rather than maintaining combat readiness. Governor Sir Geoffrey Northcote persistently urged London to adopt a firmer stance against relentless Japanese provocations: aircraft incursions, sinking of junks and fishing vessels, and infiltration by Taiwanese fifth columnists (Japan had colonized Taiwan in 1895). Recognizing the hopelessness of his position, Northcote recommended withdrawal in October 1940, arguing that defending the colony would inevitably result in mass civilian casualties and widespread destruction—a pragmatic assessment given Hong Kong's indefensible state. London categorically rejected this proposal, reasoning that withdrawal would demoralize China, embolden Japan and undermine American confidence in British resolve. Underlying this decision was an additional consideration: the long-standing dispute over Hong Kong's sovereignty. Since Britain acquired Hong Kong in 1841, the prospect of surrendering it, even temporarily, raised fears about reclaiming it afterward. Preserving the appearance of British determination was deemed crucial to demonstrating to Chiang Kai-shek, Nationalist China's leader, that Britain intended to retain the territory. Despite these political calculations, London consistently refused fresh troop deployments. Major-General A. E. Grasett, the China theatre commander, requested reinforcements only to face rejection—London offered only Indian or other colonial forces. Air Chief Marshal Sir Robert Brooke-Popham, appointed British commander in the Far East in 1941, likewise pressed for garrison strengthening, to no avail. The situation shifted dramatically after Grasett, a retired Canadian who had recently left his China post, travelled to Britain via Canada. Upon arriving in Canada, he independently approached his former classmate Major-General Crerar, Chief of the Canadian General Staff, and advocated for reinforcement. Grasett argued persuasively that deploying two or more additional battalions would enable the Hong Kong garrison to withstand an extended siege. When Grasett reached London in early September 1941, he presented this case directly to the British Chiefs of Staff, simultaneously proposing that Canada could provide the extra units. His arguments proved persuasive; the Chiefs of Staff altered course and convinced a reluctant Churchill to reconsider. In light of accelerating Japanese pressure, Britain substantially enlarged the Malaysia/Singapore garrison from nine to 32 battalions and despatched two capital ships—HMS Prince of Wales and Repulse—to the region, reasoning that this show of force would deter Japanese aggression against British Far Eastern interests, including Hong Kong. The original defence strategy envisaged holding Hong Kong Island exclusively while denying the harbour to attackers. A single battalion (the Punjabis) would execute delaying actions across the New Territories, followed by a three-battalion defensive stand on the Gin Drinkers Line. This brief mainland resistance would allow time for demolishing stores, power installations, docks and wharves, clearing food stocks and removing vital matériel before withdrawing to Hong Kong Island for a protracted resistance awaiting relief from Singapore or American forces from the Philippines. The Gin Drinkers Line—styled after the French Maginot Line in miniature—ran approximately 18 kilometres south of the Sino-Hong Kong border. Beginning near Gin Drinkers Bay west of Kowloon, it extended 17 kilometres across the Kowloon Peninsula hills toward its eastern extremity. The strategic expectation was that this line would delay the Japanese assault for three weeks or longer, permitting battalion withdrawal to Hong Kong Island for sustained resistance while mainland forces completed evacuation procedures. The 1937 war plan stipulated that four battalions would be necessary for an effective delaying action and seven for an adequate Gin Drinkers Line defence—figures which excluded the aircraft and naval support essential to success. With only a single army brigade available and virtually no air capability, planners abandoned the mainland defence concept, leaving defensive works incomplete and deteriorating under tropical conditions. Chinese personnel were conspicuously absent from initial war preparations and strategic planning, only being incorporated late in the process. The largest Chinese component was the volunteer contingent serving with the HKVDC. On the regular army side, approximately 150 Chinese recruits were enlisted in mid-1941 for the 5th Anti-Aircraft Regiment. The Hong Kong Chinese Regiment, hastily constituted on 3 November 1941, comprised officers borrowed from British and Indian units alongside 52 Chinese junior NCOs and other ranks with minimal training. A Royal Engineers troop staffed entirely by Chinese soldiers saw service, and some Chinese personnel served with the Royal Navy and Dockyard Defence Corps. Chinese participation increased substantially in auxiliary services—air-raid precautions, auxiliary police, nursing, St John Ambulance and fire brigades. This reluctance to fully integrate Chinese forces likely reflected prevailing attitudes of the era. Pre-war British propaganda had frequently mocked Japanese military capability, portraying officers and soldiers as myopic and incompetent. Japanese combat prowess was systematically underestimated; their victories in China were attributed to facing inferior opposition rather than evidence of genuine military strength. Japanese weaponry was dismissed as inferior to European standards. Consequently, British confidence remained high that the colony could hold indefinitely if adequately reinforced. In September 1941, Hong Kong received heartening news: two additional Canadian battalions would be deployed to the garrison. Brigadier John Maltby promptly revived the pre-war plan for defending the Gin Drinkers Line, developing a strategy centred on three mainland battalions (2nd Royal Scots, 5/7 Rajputs and 2/14 Punjab) supported by HKVDC elements and four artillery troop detachments, while three island battalions (1st Middlesex, Royal Rifles of Canada and Winnipeg Grenadiers) bolstered by the bulk of the HKVDC would hold Hong Kong Island. Command responsibility was divided between two brigades: the Island Brigade (Hong Kong Infantry Brigade) under Brigadier Lawson, a recently arrived Canadian, and the mainland Kowloon Infantry Brigade under Brigadier Wallis. The Canadian regiments arrived on 16 November 1941. Maltby was commissioned into the Indian Army in 1911, and  saw extensive service across multiple campaigns: World War I, the Persian Gulf (1913–14), and the North-West Frontier (1923–24). His early promise earned him selection for accelerated advancement through prestigious staff colleges at Quetta and RAF Andover. By 1937, he was again serving on the North-West Frontier, and by 1939 commanded both the 3rd Jhelum Brigade (later the Calcutta Brigade) and the 19th Infantry Brigade in Deccan. In 1940, posted to China, Maltby orchestrated the closure of the North China Command by withdrawing two infantry battalions from Shanghai. Promoted to major-general as GOC China in August 1941, he had only three months to prepare the colony's defenses, a race against time he could not win.  The Gin Drinkers Line occupied a naturally dominant position atop mountains spanning northern Kowloon's breadth, yet possessed inherent weaknesses that would prove fatal. The line lacked defensive depth and remained vulnerable to flanking manoeuvres, with two sectors representing particular danger: Customs Pass and the gap between Golden Hill and Laichikok Peninsula near Gin Drinkers Bay. Given the extended front, each battalion arranged its forces in a string of platoon positions with gaps covered by daytime fire and nighttime patrols. One company per battalion could be held in reserve within prepared positions guarding the most dangerous sectors. The reserve company of the centre battalion (2/14 Punjab) initially advanced as forward troops, screening demolition operations and delaying the enemy's initial thrust. The hasty decision to establish mainland defences meant that essential support systems—communication networks, artillery registrations, mortar calibrations—remained incomplete when combat commenced. Ammunition shortages compounded the problem. For instance, the 2/14 Punjab conducted only a single 3-inch mortar practice session before the attack; adequate ammunition arrived only in November and totalled a mere 70 rounds per battalion for both training and combat. These mortars were registered for the first time in their battle positions, with combat beginning just 12 hours later. The 2-inch mortar situation was even more desperate: troops received live ammunition only as fighting started, making their baptism of fire an actual combat situation. Transportation deficiencies—trucks and animals in short supply—forced manual ammunition transport across Hong Kong's challenging terrain, imposing severe physical demands on already stretched personnel.   On 6 November 1941, Imperial Japanese Headquarters ordered its Commander-in-Chief in China to prepare plans for capturing Hong Kong. The 23rd Army, part of the China Southern Expeditionary Army Group and commanded by Lt. Gen. Sakai Takashi with Maj. Gen. Kuribayashi Tadamichi serving as Chief of Staff, would form the invasion's backbone. All preparations were to be completed by the end of November 1941. The operation, designated 'Operation C', sought to 'seize Hong Kong within ten days'. Takahashi was the son of a factory worker, and rose through the ranks to become a veteran of China campaigns. He was tasked with capturing Hong Kong using the 38th Division normally assigned to the Southern Expeditionary Army Group. Despite setbacks and humiliation over requests for additional resources—particularly following intelligence reports of tanks (actually Bren carriers) in Hong Kong—Sakai remained determined to succeed. He served as Governor of Hong Kong from 26 December 1941 to 20 February 1942. Kuribayashi, best remembered as the Japanese commander at Iwo Jima, graduated from the Army Academy in 1914 specializing in cavalry. He served as deputy military attaché to Washington and Canada and studied at Harvard University. In December 1941, he held the position of Chief of Staff to the 23rd Army during the Hong Kong operation. Operation C followed a straightforward strategic framework. A blocking force would prevent Chinese interference from the rear, while the main invasion force would spearhead the assault. The 23rd Army, comprising four divisions plus a mixed brigade and two infantry regiments, received the assignment to attack Hong Kong. Of these four divisions, only the 38th played a substantive role in the invasion itself. The attack employed a combined-arms approach. Naval forces would establish a blockade and deliver bombardment while aircraft targeted key installations. Ground forces from the 38th Division—specifically the 228th, 229th, and 230th Regiments—would execute the land invasion using a three-pronged strategy. The right column would sweep westward in a wide arc, clearing Castle Peak Road and targeting the western flank of the Gin Drinkers Line near Laichikok Peninsula. The centre force would press directly through the line's middle, while the left column would cross Tidal Cove (Tolo Harbour) toward Kai Tak Airport and eastward toward Devil Peak, a crucial defensive position. The objective was to annihilate British forces on the mainland and compel Hong Kong's surrender through sustained bombardment. Should British forces resist, the island phase of the campaign would commence. Securing the rear against the Chinese National Army of the 7th Military District and Communist guerrillas fell to the 66th Regiment, normally part of the 51st Division but attached to the 38th for this operation. The 66th would simultaneously occupy and secure rear areas throughout the New Territories and Kowloon while the three assault regiments engaged the main defensive forces. This rearguard operation was organised into columns named after their commanding officers: Kitazawa, Kobayashi, Sato, and Araki. The Japanese selected the narrowest approach between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, targeting the eastern coast near Lyemun Passage where only 410 metres of water separated the mainland from the island. Upon landing, forces would rapidly advance inland to seize the critical junction of Wongneichong Gap, then pivot westward and southward to capture Victoria City and the remainder of Hong Kong. The naval contingent divided into two groups: the Bombardment Group and the Attack Group. Approximately 300 personnel from the Special Naval Landing Force (SNLF) were attached to the invasion force. Air support came from the First Air Brigade under Col. Habu Hideharu, which contributed 56 light bombers and fighters. Their mission was to neutralise the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, thereby securing aerial and maritime superiority for the ground campaign.   On the eve of war, the British garrison numbered 13,981 all ranks, including nursing staff and St John Ambulance personnel. Of these, 8,919 were British and Canadian, with 4,402 Indian and Chinese. The core infantry force comprised 5,422 regular soldiers, complemented by approximately 6,000 additional personnel across artillery, engineering, naval, and Hong Kong Volunteer Defence Corps (HKVDC) units. By 1941, the Royal Navy had become a shadow of its former self as the once-dominant China Squadron. Of the three World War I destroyers present on 8 December, two had been sent to Singapore—the third undergoing repairs—by 1930. This redeployment stemmed partly from the futility of defending the colony and partly from a commitment by senior US Navy officers: Britain would reinforce Singapore with Hong Kong's fleet in exchange for four American destroyers at Singapore. This American guarantee, however, never materialized. The defensive infrastructure focused primarily on countering a seaborne attack: twenty-nine coastal guns (9.2in., 6in., 4.7in., and 4in. calibres), ten 18- and 2-pounder beach defense guns, and twenty-eight field guns (60-pounder, 6in., 4.5in., and 3.7in. calibres). The Hong Kong Garrison's infantry comprised four regular army battalions—two British and two Indian—bolstered by five HKVDC infantry companies, each averaging 100 men. The 1st Middlesex Regiment, deployed in August 1937, served as a machine-gun battalion equipped with forty-eight Vickers medium machine guns. Having been abroad since 1931, the regiment had deteriorated through protracted garrison service, Hong Kong being among the softest postings available. From September 1939 onward, all regiments—including the 5/7 Rajputs (arrived June 1937) and the 2/14 Punjab—experienced systematic loss of experienced officers and NCOs to other theaters. The Royal Scots proved particularly hard hit, suffering disciplinary problems and an unusually high court-martial rate. Units like the Hong Kong and Singapore Royal Artillery suffered critical leadership gaps that went unaddressed. By December 1941, many formations fielded inexperienced replacement troops, significantly undermining combat readiness. The Punjabis exemplified these deficiencies. Stationed in Hong Kong since November 1940, they received their vehicles and mortars only in August 1941—three months before combat. Compounding this, forty percent of their strength consisted of raw recruits arrived just in October. When war erupted, artillery regiments found themselves relying on junior officers in senior roles, with British commanders unfamiliar with Urdu directing Indian troops, a handicap that severely compromised effectiveness. Deficient equipment compounded leadership shortages. Shells dating from 1918 detonated prematurely upon discharge, while ammunition shortages crippled operations. On 8 December, all field guns deployed with merely 100 rounds apiece, with 200 rounds held in reserve for the entire campaign, and coastal guns received only 25 rounds each. Insufficient cross-training meant many infantrymen failed to understand the artillery "clock face" targeting system, causing them to miss their objectives. Malaria devastated European troops, particularly the Royal Scots. Of approximately 770 personnel, at least 180 suffered recurring malarial episodes from the Shing Mun Redoubt area's notoriously endemic conditions. Staff shortages forced nearly every unit to promote junior officers to positions beyond their rank, exacerbating structural weaknesses. Although the Canadians' arrival bolstered the garrison, significant handicaps undermined their effectiveness. Both battalions carried a C-class designation—deemed unfit for foreign service—having spent years in soft garrison postings without rigorous training. The deficit was stark: each Canadian soldier received only thirty-five rifle practice rounds. The two battalions incorporated 115 men with fewer than sixteen weeks' training, while sixty-two of seventy-five recruits joining the Winnipeg Grenadiers in June came directly from a training depot lacking even basic rifles. Twelve percent of the Canadian force remained untrained. Equipment deficiencies proved even more damaging. A standard 1941 Canadian infantry battalion required 102 motor vehicles—including twenty-two Universal Carriers, thirty-seven ¾-ton trucks, thirteen 1-ton trucks, thirty-one bicycles, and twenty-two Boys anti-tank rifles. When the Canadians landed, logistical failures left them with only six Bren carriers, two water tankers, twelve ¾-ton trucks, and a single Boys anti-tank rifle. Although they carried 3in. mortars, neither ammunition nor radios accompanied them. Canada possessed only 300 3-inch mortar bombs in its entire inventory at that time, making any allocation to Hong Kong impossible. A second vessel, the SS Don Jose, was dispatched with replacement vehicles and equipment but never reached Hong Kong before 8 December. The Japanese seized it en route to Manila. Despite these shortcomings, the force departed on 27 October with 1,975 men and arrived on 16 November. Intelligence estimates regarding Japanese available forces varied widely, ranging from two to four divisions. On 6 December evening, Chinese reports confirmed the previous day's arrival of three Japanese divisions at Buji township, located eight miles from the border in what is now Shenzhen. Earlier, around 1 November, a Japanese deserter provided intelligence of significant troop concentrations north of the frontier, including large-calibre artillery indicative of at least divisional strength.   The Hong Kong invasion force comprised three service branches: the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) deployed the 38th Infantry Division, the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) committed the Second China Fleet, and the Imperial Japanese Air Force (IJAF) contributed the 1st Air Group. Command of the ground assault rested with Lieutenant-General Sano Tadayoshi of the 38th Division, supported by Major-General Ito Takeo heading the infantry group, while supporting arms including artillery, engineers, armor, and transport fell under Sano's authority. The main assault force consisted of three infantry regiments from the 38th Division, each led by a colonel: the 228th under Doi Teihichi, the 229th under Tanaka Ryosaburo, and the 230th under Shoji Toshishige. The 38th Division itself was a standard 1940s B-class infantry division of approximately 20,000 troops (ranging from 18,000–21,000 depending on operational requirements), organized into three regiments with three battalions each. Reflecting the Japanese army's reliance on animal and human transport, each regiment fielded roughly 3,800 troops supported by some 700 horses. Battalion strength averaged around 1,071 personnel, with companies numbering approximately 180 men. Japanese infantry battalions of this period featured a distinctive organization: rifle platoons consisted of four sections (three equipped with rifles and light machine guns, one with light mortars and rifles), complemented by an additional heavy machine-gun company fielding twelve Type 92 weapons and a troop of light artillery—likely Type 92 70mm infantry guns. The divisional field artillery regiment operated 75mm Type 41 mountain guns organized into three 688-man battalions, each with two troops of two guns. Mountain artillery units, numbering 36 guns total, carried additional personnel (3,400) and animals (1,400) to navigate the terrain complexities of Hong Kong operations. Recognizing the need for overwhelming firepower to compel Hong Kong's surrender, the IJA augmented the invasion force with heavy artillery—15cm and 24cm howitzers commanded by Major-General Kitashima Kineo. News of the Canadian reinforcements arriving in Hong Kong forced a reassessment. Commander-in-Chief Sakai Takashi of the 23rd Army informed his superiors that the original ten-day timeline was unrealistic and requested additional troops. Although most formations were already committed to other operations, Imperial Headquarters eventually authorized two depot regiments from Japan to support the campaign. Intended for second-line duties rather than frontline combat, these units were to be returned promptly after freeing experienced personnel for Hong Kong operations. This arrangement allowed the 19th and 20th mixed brigades—approximately 6,000 men organized in five infantry battalions, a field artillery battalion, and an engineer battalion—to be released for Hong Kong. However, Sakai's request for reinforcements met with disapproval from Imperial Headquarters, and he received an unmistakable message: a swift, decisive campaign was essential. His situation worsened when Japanese agents mistakenly identified British Bren carriers as tanks, forcing Sakai to improvise armor by raiding the 1st Reserve Tank Battalion and tankette units from infantry depot divisions. In attempting to secure additional armor from the 11th Army's 9th Reconnaissance Regiment, Sakai encountered resistance. General Hata Shunroku lodged sustained complaints with senior officials, and Sakai received a sharp rebuke—further requests would not be entertained, and his replacement would follow if necessary. Stung by this loss of face, Sakai abandoned all additional requests and became even more determined to achieve success. Vice-Admiral Niimi Masaichi, commanding the 2nd China Expeditionary Fleet, oversaw the entire naval element, divided into bombardment and attack groups. His flagship, the light cruiser Isuzu, carried Captain Ura Koichi, who simultaneously commanded the bombardment group. This naval force assembled ships from various China Expeditionary Fleet units, particularly from the Canton Special Base Force, 15 Squadron, and 11 Torpedo Boat Division at Guangzhou. Reflecting Niimi's lack of confidence in the army's air support capabilities, the seaplane tender IJN Kamikawa Maru joined the operation on his insistence, providing organic naval aviation against the threat posed by British Wildebeests. Niimi also petitioned for destroyers IJN Wakaba and Yugure to counter the three British destroyers, though this request was denied. The Special Naval Landing Forces (SNLF) were assigned to conduct diversionary attacks south of Hong Kong Island, intended to distract British forces from the main land invasion thrust. The IJAF's 1st Air Brigade, commanded by Colonel Habu Hideharu, centered on the 45th Air Regiment with 34 Kawasaki Ki-32 Type 98 'Mary' light bombers. This composite force drew aircraft and units from airfields across China and Manchuria—Beijing, Shanghai, Taiwan, and Qiqihar—all assembled at Baiyun Aerodrome in Guangzhou on 7 December 1941. Supporting the 1st Air Brigade were the 10th Independent Squadron under Captain Takatsuki Akira with 13 Nakajima Ki-27 Type 97 'Nate' fighters, 3 Mitsubishi Ki-15 Type 97 'Babs' command reconnaissance aircraft from the 18th Independent Reconnaissance Squadron, and the 44th Independent Squadron fielding 6 Tachikawa Ki-36 Type 98 'Ida' observation aircraft. Years before the invasion, the Japanese cultivated an extensive network of agents and sleeper operatives in Hong Kong, methodically gathering intelligence and mapping military installations. This sophisticated network proved remarkably effective: invasion maps carried by IJA officers were actually Hong Kong Government and British military maps, overprinted with Japanese annotations and interpretations. British officers later discovered in captivity that the Peninsula Hotel's regular barber was a Japanese Navy lieutenant-commander who had exploited the intimate setting to extract valuable information about British force dispositions. Intelligence operatives infiltrated every level of Hong Kong society—the garrison tailor and barber both served as spies. This groundwork enabled exceptional accuracy in artillery fire and bombing campaigns. The Japanese further leveraged criminal networks, recruiting gangsters throughout Hong Kong and Guangdong province with money and arms, turning them into irregular auxiliaries supporting the invasion.   On Sunday, 7 December, seven hundred members of the 2nd Royal Scots and Middlesex Regiment marched to St John's Cathedral for the morning service. As Major-General Maltby read a passage from Matthew, his aide-de-camp, Lieutenant I. MacGregor, delivered an urgent message that would change everything. Preparations for conflict had already begun. On 5 December, the HKVDC had mobilized fully, yet Hong Kong's broader population remained unmoved—the Happy Valley racetrack reported record attendance that very day. The contrast was stark: while one institution prepared for war, another celebrated as though nothing threatened. Japanese forces had been positioned advantageously since autumn 1941. The 23rd Army was already stationed west of Guangzhou, with contingents scattered across Foshan Town, Zhuhai, and other locations on the Pearl River delta. Upon orders for war on 1 December, they faced minimal distances to cover. The army regrouped at Humen, Shilong Town, and Guangzhou itself—staging areas for the invasion. The first visible signs arrived on 4–5 December when Japanese forces landed at Mirs Bay; the 228th Regiment moved into its staging area at Buji Town, now part of Shenzhen City. Maltby received these reports and immediately departed the cathedral service to issue urgent stand-to orders. Yet skepticism persisted within military circles. Some dismissed the threat, dismissing such intelligence as "astonishingly erroneous." Meanwhile, the Imperial Japanese Navy massed in the waters beyond Hong Kong's horizon. The Kowloon Infantry Brigade held a stretched defensive line: the 5/7 Rajputs anchored the centre, the 2/14 Punjab the east, and the 2nd Royal Scots the west. Forward positions extended far—C Company, 2/14 Punjab, under Major S. Burns ranged along Castle Peak Road toward Yuen Long. The brigade screen, C Company of the 2/14 Punjab, held Shueng Shui and Taipo Market with four Bren carriers and two armoured cars from the HKVDC, backed by engineers and the 22nd Fortress Company. The Hong Kong Infantry Brigade held Hong Kong Island itself. The Winnipeg Grenadiers occupied Victoria City on the north-west coast, while the Royal Rifles of Canada stretched along the north-east shores from Saukiwan to Lyemun. Brigadier Lawson commanded from his headquarters at Wongneichong Gap in the island's centre. At 0355 hours on 8 December, the code word "Blossom Blossom" was transmitted. Eleven minutes later, Lieutenant-General Sakai ordered the invasion to commence. Fifty minutes after that, at 0445 hours, Major Charles Boxer—a fluent Japanese speaker formerly of the Lincolnshire Regiment—was roused by Radio Tokyo announcing that war was imminent. Governor Young and Major-General Maltby were informed at once. By 0500 hours, the forward demolition points had been blown by Major Gray, OC of C Company 2/14 Punjab, and the HKVDC engineers under Major J. H. Bottomley. At 0645 hours, the garrison received formal notification: Britain and Japan were at war. Seventy-five minutes later, air-raid sirens wailed. Within moments, smoke billowed from Kai Tak Airport as Japanese aircraft destroyed virtually the entire air garrison. The Wildebeests, Walruses, HKVDC biplanes, and several civilian planes were engulfed in flames. Only two Ju-52s of the Eurasia Corporation and one CNAC T-32 Condor escaped destruction—dispersal bays had never been built due to lack of funds. The Japanese then turned to secondary targets, bombing Shamshuipo Camp and the neighbouring police station. The Canadians suffered few large-scale casualties in the initial strikes, though Sergeant Routledge and Signalman Fairley of the signal platoon were wounded—the first Canadian soldiers injured in World War II. Remarkably, Hong Kong Island's theatres, cinemas, and restaurants continued operating as though the island faced no peril. Japanese demolition efforts proved only minor obstacles. Bridges blown were quickly replaced. The invasion proceeded on three fronts: the 230th Regiment advanced westward along the northern route toward Yuen Long and Castle Peak, targeting the northern slope of Tai Mo Mountain. The 228th Regiment drove down the centre, following the Sheung Shui–Taipo–Kowloon road toward Grassy Hill north of the Shing Mun Redoubt. The 229th Regiment, crossing at Sha Tau Kok and by boat at Starling Inlet, proceeded via Taipo toward Tai Shui Hang and Ma On Mountain. Whenever confronted with strongly defended positions, the Japanese bypassed them entirely rather than engage. The first day brought scattered but spirited resistance. Around 1300 hours, the Punjabis inflicted the first serious check, drawing blood from advancing Japanese forces. At 1830 hours, they ambushed and decimated several Japanese platoons south of Taipo market town. The HKVDC's armoured cars and Bren carriers struck similar successes nearby. The 2 Royal Scots' reconnaissance platoon clashed with elements of the 229th Regiment around Yuen Long. Despite these minor victories, Japanese momentum continued. Armed with stolen British maps and guided by fifth columnists, they pushed forward relentlessly. By late afternoon on the 8th, the Punjabis withdrew toward Grassy Hill to avoid being outflanked. The artillerymen of the 12th Battery engaged an IJN destroyer and Japanese forces around Taipo, inflicting heavy casualties. Farther south near Shatin, on the Taipo–Kowloon highway, rapidly advancing Japanese troops surprised the defenders and severed the fuse at an HKVDC demolition point. Their triumph proved momentary; the engineers completed the backup circuit and detonated the bridge, destroying it along with the Japanese soldiers crossing it. By early morning on 9 December, orders came to withdraw all mainland units to the Gin Drinkers Line. The Punjabis, already at Shatin Wai overlooking Tide Cove, held their position under pressure and continuous shelling for the next two days. The HKVDC withdrew to Fotan, a village south of Shatin. Maltby ordered D Company, 5/7 Rajputs, under Captain H. R. Newtons to Smuggler's Ridge to close the gap between the 2 Royal Scots and 2/14 Punjab. HKVDC armoured cars and Bren carriers continued patrols along Castle Peak Road while HMS Cicala, having survived two air attacks, maintained station in Castle Peak Bay. Despite an IJN blockade, the destroyers HMS Thanet and Scout slipped anchor and escaped to Singapore around 2130 hours. The surviving CNAC and Eurasia aircraft took off with high-value evacuees: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen's widow and her two equally renowned sisters—the Soong sisters—along with Chinese Finance Minister H. H. Kung. Also departing was Lieutenant-Colonel H. Owen-Hughes of the HKVDC, who carried orders to coordinate with the Chinese Nationalist Army for a rear-guard attack on Japanese forces to relieve the pressure on Hong Kong. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. On 8 December 1941, Japan attacked Hong Kong with the 38th Division, supported by naval and air forces. Despite British defenses manned by undertrained, under-equipped troops, Japanese forces advanced rapidly across three fronts. Within hours, the RAF was destroyed, demolitions proved futile, and British units withdrew toward the Gin Drinkers Line facing overwhelming odds.

A union for St John ambulance workers says the record numbers of calls to the service in the last week is making an already stressful job harder. St John activated its major incident response over the weekend after receiving more than 2500 calls on Saturday, the most it has ever received in a single day. In the last week the ambulance service had just over 16,000 calls, breaking the record set just a week earlier. Rachel Graham reports.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has categorically ruled out working with New Zealand First if elected in November, unfortunately for Labour and Mr Hipkins the response from the media and many voters is "why did this take so long?"Simeon Brown faced off against Jack Tame on Q&A over the weekend where he struggled to firmly back leader Christopher Luxon and couldn't explain why one of the targets for the health service is to increase staffChristopher Luxon was on RNZ this morning where he had to explain Nicola Willis' "no new tax on working people" when they are going to reverse the discount to fuel excise tax etcMight check out poll of polls in NZ Herald, and check out how St John Ambulance is overworked like never before++++++++++++++++++++Like us on Facebook.com/BigHairyNetwork Follow us on Twitter.com/@bighairynetworkFollowing us on TikTok.com/@bighairynetworkSupport us on Patreon www.patreon.com/c/BigHairyNewsCheck out our merch https://bhn.nz/shop/Donate to our work https://bhn.nz/shop/donation/

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St John Ambulance has confirmed it is experiencing delays getting patients into hospital care, because of increased winter demand at ED's. Meanwhile Health New Zealand has confirmed Waikato Hospital ED was more than 20% short on staff the night a man died while waiting to be seen by a specialist. Sarah Dalton from the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists spoke to Lisa Owen.

THE HOMEOPATHY HEALTH SHOW The Art of Acute Prescribing & Sensory Case-Taking – A Conversation with Marcus Christo Episode Summary In this engaging and inspiring episode, we welcome Marcus Christo, one of the UK's most respected homeopaths, educators, and acute prescribing specialists. Drawing on more than three decades of clinical practice, teaching, and public service, Marcus shares the principles that have shaped his unique approach to homeopathy—from the bustling clinics of the Glastonbury Festival to educating the next generation of practitioners. This conversation explores the power of sensory perception, the importance of efficient case-taking, and how mastering acute prescribing can transform both practitioner confidence and patient outcomes. In This Episode We Explore A Journey into Homeopathy • Marcus's unexpected path into homeopathy through Great Ormond Street Homeopathic Hospital • The influence of Charles Elliott, Physician to the Queen • Early inspirations from local homeopaths and herbalists • Building a lifelong career dedicated to teaching and practice The Travelling Homeopaths Collective • The origins of the Glastonbury Festival homeopathic clinic • Treating hundreds of patients in busy festival environments • Working alongside St John Ambulance and other healthcare services • Bringing homeopathy to the public through outreach and education The Art of Sensory Case-Taking • Applying Aphorism 84 through the use of all the senses • Observing hearing, smell, taste, appearance, and behaviour during consultation • Asking open questions and allowing the patient's story to unfold naturally • Recognising key symptoms without unnecessary complexity Mastering Acute Prescribing • Why acute prescribing builds practitioner confidence • Understanding the complete disease journey • The importance of etiology and current modalities • Clinical examples demonstrating the effectiveness of acute remedies Teaching, Training & Professional Development • Educating homeopaths through practical, experience-based learning • Encouraging confidence in fast-paced prescribing situations • Supporting practitioners to simplify complex cases • Inspiring the next generation of homeopaths The Future of Homeopathy • The need to attract younger practitioners into the profession • Adapting homeopathy to modern regulations and public expectations • Raising awareness through festivals, education, and community outreach • Preserving the essence of classical homeopathy for future generations About Our Guest Marcus Christo FSHom is an internationally respected homeopath, educator, and Fellow of the Society of Homeopaths, recognised for his outstanding contribution to the profession. He is the founder of the Travelling Homeopaths Collective and has spent more than three decades teaching acute prescribing, sensory case-taking, and practical homeopathy to practitioners around the world. Known for his work at Glastonbury Festival and his dynamic teaching style, Marcus continues to inspire homeopaths through education, clinical excellence, and his commitment to making homeopathy accessible to the wider public. About the Homeopathy Health Show The Homeopathy Health Show - co-hosted and produced by Atiq Ahmad Bhatti and Naila Cheema - is the world's #1 homeopathy talk show, reaching a global audience through the UK Health Radio Network and all major podcast platforms. Atiq Ahmad Bhatti, a 4th Generation Homeopath, Teacher, Educator, and Global Ambassador for Homeopathy, is joined by Naila Cheema, an experienced Homeopath and Nutritionist. Together, they bring thoughtful conversations, expert insights, and a shared passion for holistic healing to every episode. Connect with the Hosts Atiq Ahmad Bhatti - Homeopath, Educator, Broadcaster Online: www.liketreatslike.co.uk Instagram: @like_treatslike Facebook: @liketreatslike YouTube: like_treatslike Naila Cheema - Homeopath, Nutritionist, Educator Online: https://homeopathynaila.com Instagram: @homeopathnaila Facebook: @Neeli.KC Stream Now Across All Platforms UK Health Radio: https://ukhealthradio.com/program/homeopathy-health/ Podbean: https://homeopathyhealth.podbean.com/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/homeopathy-health-with-atiq-naila/id1715524908 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@like_treatslike/featured Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17rSCmlPGDkiSCyHePLPFx?si=51c640498df84727 Join Our Global Community of Listeners Hosted by: Atiq & Naila Top 5% Podcast Worldwide (ListenNotes Global Ranking) #1 Global Talk Show on Homeopathy Audience in 60+ Countries Real conversations. Real stories. Real homeopathy. Unlock the power of natural remedies to restore balance and vitality. Inspiring guests, expert insights, and global voices shaping the future of holistic medicine. Tune in, stay inspired, and explore the world of homeopathy with us. Homeopathy in Practice Explore webinars, masterclasses, education, and practitioner resources at: https://homeopathyinpractice.co.uk Join our global Facebook community @homeopathyinpractice    

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St. John Ambulance is one of Canada's oldest charitable organizations. While many people know them for first aid and CPR training, they do so much more. From event medical services and therapy dog programs to volunteer emergency response, they play an important role in keeping people across Saskatchewan safe and prepared. Evan is joined by Jonathan Tremblay, CEO of St. John Ambulance Saskatchewan, to tell us more about the organization and the work it does in our communities.

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Katie Woolf was joined this week by CLP Minister Jinson Charls, Sky News' Matt Cunningham, and Independent Member for Araluen Robyn Lambley. They discussed funding for St John Ambulance, Code Yellows at the hospitals and violence towards workers, Gas tax and crime statisticsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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The National Road Transport Association (NatRoad) has expanded the reach of its vital first aid training by offering the course in many languages. Following the launch of a Punjabi version of its free Truckie First Aid program, NatRoad has now introduced a Hindi edition. The course covers essential life-saving skills, including CPR, how to use a defibrillator, managing different types of bleeding, and other techniques designed to reduce long-term harm. Delivered in partnership with St John Ambulance, the program equips truck drivers from non-English-speaking backgrounds with the knowledge, skills and confidence to respond effectively at accident scenes.

A couple are getting a £1,200 refund for furniture that did not arrive after threatening to take The Range to court.It's after they ordered four electric recliner armchairs from the retailer in September – some parts arrived two days later but other pieces didn't show up at all. Also in today' podcast, a lorry driver who had more than 40 migrants in the back of his trailer is among several caught this year amid a spike in arrests in Kent.You can hear from the National Crime Agency who's warning hauliers are being targeted by ruthless gangs offering them thousands of pounds to smuggle people in and out of the country.A secondary school in Sevenoaks that has started locking its students' mobile phones away during the day says children are “talking” and “running around” again since its introduction.You can hear from bosses at the school and from students who've been telling us what impact the smartphone ban has had.Parents in Kent are being urged to learn basic first aid skills before taking their children to events this festive season. St John Ambulance says it's important to prepare now for any activities you might have planned over the next couple of months. And, the female bison who led the wild herd in woodland near Canterbury has died at the age of 21.Staff at the Wildwood Trust say she lived a long life after being move from a zoo and released into Blean Woods in 2022. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Just 59 per cent of Victorians have a first aid kit at home - the lowest of any place in Australia, according to new St John Ambulance research. St John’s Ambulance Victoria finds Victorians falling behind on emergency preparedness. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we were discussing First Aid on-site. The official standards state that there must be one first aider on site for every fifty workers, and sites with fewer than five workers don't need an official first aider on site. But is that good enough?Should first aiders be more readily available on site? Plus, what measures do you have in place in case of the unthinkable if you work alone? We were joined by builder Mark Corby and Lisa Sharman from St John Ambulance to talk about why first aid is important on site! Plus, there's the pub lunch quiz, and you'll hear the very best messages we received.Want to learn First Aid for free this September, or find out More about St John's Ambulance: https://www.sja.org.uk/ Catch Clive On Fix Radio Monday - Thursday 12 PM - 3 PM Across The UK On DAB Radio And Online At https://www.fixradio.co.uk/ 

The owner of several vape shops says he's not the criminal he's being made out to be and claims he's being “harassed” and “targeted” by the authorities. It's after a new report accused him of an “ongoing pattern of criminal behaviour”, from underage sales to selling fake designer goods and illegal products. Also in today's podcast, a body has been discovered in the sea amid a search for a missing woman.Police and the coastguard were called to St Margaret's Bay yesterday afternoon. A family-run hotel has been forced to deny rumours it is housing asylum seekers after organisers of an anti-immigration protest planned to demonstrate outside.Bosses at The King Charles Hotel have slammed claims it was housing people under government schemes as “completely untrue”.A campaign urging action on the impact of smartphones and social media on students has gained the support for a local MP. You can hear from Independent Rosie Duffield who was at a public meeting held by Whitstable Unplugged - a local group pushing for more regulation. And a much-loved community marching band has been granted an extension to stay in its home while it battles to find a permanent solution.The St John Ambulance music group on Sheppey, the last of its kind, was first handed an eviction notice at the end of June.

Send us a textMental health isn't a weakness, it's the foundation of strong teams and sustainable careers.In this Thrive in Construction Podcast episode, Darren Evans speaks with Vee Holt, Mental Health Trainer at St John Ambulance, who brings personal experience and professional expertise to the vital topic of mental health in the workplace.From overcoming their own struggles with anxiety and depression to training hundreds of professionals across industries, Vee shares practical strategies for creating cultures where people feel safe, supported, and able to thrive, particularly in high-pressure sectors like construction.Key Highlights:- Lived Experience & Professional Expertise: How Vee's personal journey from university dropout to mental health trainer shaped their mission to support others.- Recognising the Signs: How to identify when you or a colleague might need support—long before a crisis hits.- Breaking the Stigma in Construction: Tackling the “tough guy” culture and empowering workers to speak up without fear of judgement.- Active Listening & Empathy in Action: The skills every manager needs to serve, not fix, when supporting mental health.- Preventing Burnout & Building Resilience: Why reflection, connection, and daily habits are crucial to long-term wellbeing.- Suicide Prevention & Courageous Conversations: Debunking myths, asking the hard questions, and providing life-saving support.This episode is a must-listen for leaders, managers, and professionals across construction and beyond who want to create healthier workplaces and support their teams effectively.If you want to see our other insightful podcasts, click here:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOHI_yaqB2U8KWbsfJDPCoYEfOh-TTnipFind us on:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dDkxLWZ25nT0krYWaTiITApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thrive-in-construction-with-darren-evans/id1726973152YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTrzqei7gttB8WB5wM6hUpwLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/thrive-in-construction-podcast/Our Website: https://darren-evans.co.uk/Links:Vee Holt's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vee-holt-746a01129/St John's Ambulance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/st-john-ambulance/St Jon's Ambulance: www.sja.org.uk#MentalHealthInConstruction #ThriveInConstruction #WorkplaceWellbeing #SuicidePrevention #ActiveListening #ConstructionCulture #StJohnAmbulance #MentalHealthMattersSupport the show

A man has told a court he's 'scared to walk the streets' after being stabbed by a homeless man in Gravesend.The victim was attacked by Gary Stephens after intervening in an argument he was having with a woman outside a Tesco store in 2022.Also in today's podcast, the leader of the opposition at Kent County Council has criticised the way Reform UK are behaving in cabinet meetings.Lib Dem councillor and leader of the opposition at KCC Antony Hook has spoken out - you can hear from him and a response from Reform's chief whip at KCC, Maxwell Harrison.A Kent MP has raised concerns about Britain's last remaining St John Ambulance marching band being forced to close down.The group is based on Sheppey, but they've been told by the charity to leave their site.Conservationists are celebrating an historic breakthrough as they try to reintroduce the red-billed chough to Kent.It's been more than 200 years since the birds were last living independently on chalk grassland in the south east. Hear from Liz Corry who is the Chough Release Supervisor at Wildwood Trust and has some exciting news.In sport, Gillingham bosses say they're 'extremely disappointed' after offensive language was directed towards a match official from the Gills end during Saturday's game at Accrington.The FA made the club aware and an investigation is continuing.

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Paramedics are giving the Government a thumbs up, as it moves to crack down on assaults towards first responders and prison officers. It's proposing higher penalties, with five years maximum imprisonment for assault with intent to injure, and a seven year maximum for injuring with intent. St John Ambulance Operations Manager Stu Cockburn told Mike Hosking this is a step in the right direction. LISTEN HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hato Hone St John's Andy Everiss and Leanne Tiscornia join Mark Leishman to talk about 'Giving Day'.

After collapsing from heatstroke during the 2024 Brighton Marathon, Holly Rowlinson faced heartbreak and the loss of a long-held goal. With reflection and the support of St John Ambulance, Holly turned her setback into a purpose. A year later, she ran the 2025 London Marathon, raising over £2,000 for the charity who helped her back to her feet. Holly's story is a testament to community, gratitude and the strength created from having a meaningful why. With this clarity and determination, Holly focused beyond the finish line. Reframing failure, she chose not to run for time but for something greater. Holly chose purpose over pace.   KEY TAKEAWAY ‘We both pushed each other over that line and that's the spirit of the marathon.'   RESOURCE Holly's Fundraising page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/holsvslondonmara4sja   ABOUT HOLLY Holly is a final year English undergraduate at the University of Exeter, having spent her third year studying at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. She loves skiing, playing university cricket and parkrun tourism both as a runner and volunteer.   CONNECT WITH HOLLY https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyrowlinson/   ABOUT THE HOST - AMY ROWLINSON Amy is a purpose and fulfilment coach, author, podcast strategist, podcaster and mastermind host helping you to improve productivity, engagement and fulfilment in your everyday life and work. Prepare to banish overwhelm, underwhelm and frustration to live with clarity of purpose.   BOOK RECOMMENDATION* Shortlisted in The Business Book Awards 2025 (Work and Life category): Focus on Why: Create a Purposeful Way of Life by Amy Rowlinson with George F. Kerr – https://amzn.eu/d/6W02HWu     WORK WITH AMY If you're interested in how purpose can help you and your business, please book a free 30 min call via https://calendly.com/amyrowlinson/call   KEEP IN TOUCH WITH AMY Sign up for the weekly Friday Focus - https://www.amyrowlinson.com/subscribe-to-weekly-newsletter   CONNECT WITH AMY https://linktr.ee/AmyRowlinson   HOSTED BY: Amy Rowlinson   DISCLAIMER The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the host and guest speakers. Please conduct your own due diligence. *As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Prue Young, a remarkable triathlete and critical care flight paramedic who exemplifies resilience and determination. As a proud warrior living with multiple sclerosis (MS), Prue has not only faced personal challenges but has also triumphed in the world of endurance sports. From her journey as an athlete to competing in the prestigious Ironman World Championships in Kona, Prue shares her inspiring story of perseverance. As a New Zealand representative, she has pushed through the barriers of her diagnosis to achieve incredible feats, including completing Ironman events and other endurance challenges.  Join us as Prue discusses her experiences in triathlon, the intersection of her career and athletic pursuits, and how she continues to inspire others in the face of adversity.  This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of chasing your dreams against all odds!   Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don't forget to subscribe so you won't miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women.  Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support!   Show notes Who is Prue Insights into her childhood in rural Dunedin, New Zealand Growing up with outdoor adventures like climbing trees, kayaking, skiing, and camping The influence of her parents in fostering her love for the outdoors Her involvement in sports during her school years, including water polo, hockey, and swimming Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh programme and how it introduced her to tramping and mountain biking Her early aspiration to become a doctor, inspired by a childhood incident Why she shifted her career focus from medicine to paramedicine How a suggestion to volunteer with St John Ambulance started her paramedic journey Prue's path from volunteering to becoming a fully qualified paramedic The challenges of balancing work, study, and personal fitness while pursuing her paramedic degree How exercise became her outlet during busy and stressful periods Her initial exposure to triathlons during high school The role of a colleague in encouraging her to participate in a women's triathlon Overcoming fears of road cycling and embracing triathlon training Completing her paramedics internship and rediscovering her love for sports Writing a bucket list and setting ambitious fitness goals Competing in New Zealand's Coast to Coast multi-sport competition The components of the Coast to Coast event How Les Mills RPM classes rekindled her interest in biking Her journey from gym fitness to full Ironman triathlons Finding fulfilment in the outdoors through triathlons and endurance challenges How triathlons helped her manage stress and stay physically active The importance of community and support in her sporting and professional life The mental and physical challenges of transitioning to a high-intensity paramedic career Insights into balancing career demands with maintaining personal fitness Her reflections on resilience and adaptability through life's challenges How her love for the outdoors continues to shape her lifestyle and career How she discovered her love for triathlons and embraced the joy of physical challenges Her first Ironman experience in March 2018 The balance between overcoming challenges and enjoying the process of competing The influence of her postgraduate studies to her training routine Reflections on her second Ironman and how pressure impacted her enjoyment and performance Balancing work, study, and training while managing life changes How she shifted her focus from Ironman to the Coast to Coast multi-sport event The new challenges she faced learning to kayak The unique blend of skills and fitness required for both triathlons and multi-sport events How Prue attempted to take on both the Coast to Coast and Ironman in 2021 The impact of COVID-19 restrictions on events and how they reshaped her plans How Prue's journey took a major turn with the onset of symptoms leading to her MS (Multiple Sclerosis) diagnosis The early signs of MS that she experienced, including changes in sensation and strength Prue's journey to understanding and managing her MS diagnosis The importance of finding joy in the process, even amid setbacks and challenges How Prue continues to approach life and sports with a positive and determined mindset Prue's journey to the Ironman World Championships and overcoming challenges like injury and fatigue What it was like competing in Kona during COVID-19 Highlights of being part of an inspiring athlete ambassador panel The joy and energy of the Ironman check-in process and race day atmosphere Her experiences with the swim, bike, and run segments, including battling heat and headwinds Supporting fellow athletes during the marathon with advice and encouragement The emotional and unforgettable moments Prue's victory dance at the finish line and the camaraderie with volunteers How she showed that hope and determination lead to incredible achievements Final words of advice   Social Media Instagram @ms_adventure_heli_medic   

In this episode of Game Changers, host Sophie Brazell-Ng sits down with James Radford, former Chief of Staff at St John Ambulance, and Alex Wilford, Managing Consultant at Clarasys, to discuss the essentials of creating purpose-driven change across sectors. With backgrounds spanning nonprofit leadership and purpose-driven consulting, James and Alex dive into how organisations can align purpose with impactful outcomes, sharing insights on the PAS808 framework and the power of defining “optimal contribution.” They explore purpose from multiple angles—from transforming charity work and fostering community alignment to navigating purpose-driven strategies in business. Drawing from their involvement in Clarasys's purpose-led initiatives and broader experiences with frameworks like PAS808 and concepts like Ikigai, the trio provides real-world advice on making purpose a central force in strategy, culture, and decision-making.  For more information and to read the transcript, visit our website: https://clarasys.com/insights/thinking/podcast/the-importance-of-purpose-driven-change

St. John's Ambulance presented life saving awards to 13 citizens of Newfoundland and Labrador for their acts of bravery at an Investiture and Life Saving Awards Ceremony. We spoke with two of the recipients this morning, Shelley Barry and Jeff Morrissey.

Around 300 St John Ambulance workers walked off the job at four o'clock Tuesday morning after rejecting a pay offer last week. Deputy Chief Executive of Ambulance Operations Dan Ohs spoke to Corin Dann.

Thousands of Hato Hone St John ambulance staff are striking today after six months of unsuccessful pay talks. The New Zealand Ambulance Association secretary Mark Quin spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Chris and Co have been working hard as usual this week on a vast array of stories. Another week where there's been a lot happening in the world of news in the NT and we've got it all for you here on the weekend edition. Each week we speak with Chris Walsh, Editor of the NT Independent online newspaper, about some of the stories making news in the Territory. This week's stories are: 1. ‘No concluded findings': ICAC releases first of two reports into Labor's taxpayer-funded 2020 campaign https://ntindependent.com.au/no-concluded-findings-icac-releases-first-of-two-reports-into-labors-taxpayer-funded-2020-campaign/ 2. Lawler says Labor will not reimburse taxpayers for 2020 election travel rorts https://ntindependent.com.au/lawler-says-labor-will-not-reimburse-taxpayers-for-2020-election-travel-rorts/3. Curfew laws rushed through Parliament as Lawler says they're necessary before electionhttps://ntindependent.com.au/youth-curfew-laws-rushed-through-parliament-as-lawler-says-theyre-necessary-before-election/4. Labor failing to effectively deliver Closing the Gap outcomes: Auditor Generalhttps://ntindependent.com.au/labor-failing-to-effectively-deliver-closing-the-gap-outcomes-auditor-general/5. Batchelor announces new CEO, more than 16 months after last one lefthttps://ntindependent.com.au/batchelor-announces-new-ceo-more-than-16-months-after-last-one-left/ 6. Martin Dole promoted to NT Police Deputy Commissionerhttps://ntindependent.com.au/martin-dole-promoted-to-nt-police-deputy-commissioner/7. Second review of St John Ambulance announced along with $8 million funding increasehttps://ntindependent.com.au/second-review-of-st-john-ambulance-announced-along-with-8-million-funding-increase/8. Lawler Government launches crackdown on takeaway coffee cupshttps://ntindependent.com.au/lawler-government-launches-crackdown-on-takeaway-coffee-cups/9. Drop-in cricket pitches for Mararra Stadium with Govt hoping for international matcheshttps://ntindependent.com.au/drop-in-cricket-pitches-for-mararra-stadium-with-govt-hoping-for-international-matches/ 10. Job of the week - https://www.seek.com.au/job/75832092?savedSearchID=1e92b6ce-a1de-11e8-93a9-2b89208d8b6b&tracking=JMC-SavedSearch-anz-1-JYMHM The Territory Story podcast thanks to Oppidanus Digital Marketing, your local digital marketing agency. For more information about web design, search engine optimisation, social media management, video marketing or to discuss your digital marketing needs go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.oppidanus.com.au.⁠⁠⁠ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/territorystory/message

Ever wondered how the roar of a crowd or a cheerleader's chant could coax your weary legs across a marathon finish line? I'm living proof of that force, powered through the London Marathon by the electrifying support from Macmillan and St John Ambulance's cheering squads. This episode is a testament to the incredible strength we find in the kindness of strangers and the shared human spirit that propels us forward. My co-host Valerio, whom I fondly call the accidental half-marathoner, chimes in with his own tale of transition from Peloton pedals to pavement pounding—sparked by a fortuitous discussion at an Indian wedding no less!Lacing up their running shoes, Valerio and I guide you through the intricate dance of discipline and resilience, both of which crisscross the paths of marathon running and entrepreneurship. While I recount the myriad of challenges faced during marathon training—from injury management to the psychological warfare on race day—Valerio reflects on his own journey of habit formation and the surprising allure (and expenses!) of running. It's a conversation that goes beyond the miles, touching on the parallels between the grueling and often solitary miles of marathon prep and the equally relentless journey of building a business from the ground up.We wrap up the episode with a deeper look at the power of discipline. Valerio shares an inspiring story about facing and overcoming the hurdles thrown our way, whether it's the financial pinch of running gear or the unexpected extra mile that tests our mental fortitude. Our dialogues weave through personal anecdotes and advice, offering a blend of laughter, encouragement, and raw insight into the transformative journey of marathon running and the relentless pursuit of one's passions. So hit play and join us on this marathon of an episode—because whether you're running a race or chasing a dream, it's the discipline that takes you across the finish line.Support the Show.Check us out and send us a message on our instagram, Tik Tok and Youtube platforms @the.needle.moverswww.theneedlemovers.xyz

Welcome to our series of bite-sized episodes featuring favourite moments from the Leading for Business Excellence podcast series. In this minisode, we're joined by David Sheldon, Head of Continuous Improvement at St John Ambulance, as he reflects on his positive customer service encounters with the NHS Blood Donation service.Listen to the full episode here: https://pmi.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast-embodying-continuous-improvement-with-david-sheldon-head-of-ci-at-st-john-ambulance/More from PMI: Learn, share, and thrive at PMI's Goals to Results Conference on 25th September 2024.As part of our 40th anniversary celebrations, join us for interactive roundtables, engaging workshops, inspiring guest speakers, thought leaders, and so much more. Register your interest to access early bird bookings. Dive into our Knowledge Hub for more tools, videos, and infographics Join us for a PMI LIVE Webinar Follow us on LinkedIn

Chris and Co have been working hard as usual this week on a vast array of stories. Another week where there's been a lot happening in the world of news in the NT and we've got it all for you here on the weekend edition. Each week we speak with Chris Walsh, Editor of the NT Independent online newspaper, about some of the stories making news in the Territory. This week's stories are: 1. ‘Black Monopoly' board game shared by NT Police members with every space ‘go to jail' revealedhttps://ntindependent.com.au/black-monopoly-board-game-shared-by-nt-police-members-with-every-space-go-to-jail-revealed/2. Lawler Government stuffed up emergency declaration for Alice Springs; police union still concerned curfew not legalhttps://ntindependent.com.au/lawler-government-stuffed-up-emergency-declaration-for-alice-springs-police-union-still-concerned-curfew-not-legal/3. Damning review into NT Police resourcing shows organisational failures over many yearshttps://ntindependent.com.au/damning-review-into-nt-police-resourcing-shows-organisational-failures-over-many-years/4. Police union says interstate officers needed while extra police are recruitedhttps://ntindependent.com.au/police-union-says-interstate-officers-needed-while-extra-police-are-recruited/5. External probe ordered into St John Ambulance after ‘concerns raised'https://ntindependent.com.au/external-probe-ordered-into-st-john-ambulance-after-concerns-raised/6. NT's economy fell to $30.1 billion in 2023: Treasury figureshttps://ntindependent.com.au/nts-economy-fell-to-30-1-billion-in-2023-treasury-figures/7. NT may need to buy gas from Queensland if low local production continues: ACCChttps://ntindependent.com.au/potential-for-nt-to-buy-gas-from-queensland-if-low-local-production-continues-accc/8. Independent candidate announces campaign for Johnstonhttps://ntindependent.com.au/independent-candidate-announces-campaign-for-johnston/9. Job of the week - https://www.seek.com.au/job/74883294?savedSearchID=3a06b5cc-a1de-11e8-93a9-0bd920cd47b0&tracking=JMC-SavedSearch-anz-1-JYMHM The Territory Story podcast thanks to Oppidanus Digital Marketing, your local digital marketing agency. For more information about web design, search engine optimisation, social media management, video marketing or to discuss your digital marketing needs go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.oppidanus.com.au.⁠⁠⁠ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/territorystory/message

Please join us at patreon.com/tortoiseshack In this Echo Chamber podcast special you'll here from survivor of child sexual abuse at the hands of a senior member of St John Ambulance, Mick Finnegan, Sinn Féin's spokesperson for Sport, TD Chris Andrews, Green Party TD and Chair of the Children's Committee, Patrick Costello and Irish Times journalist, Jack Power. They each give their perspectives and views on what has happened since the publication of the Shannon Report into child sex abuse within SJA, the current controversy over funding of a Child Safe Guarding Officer and what, if any, lessons have been learned. Mick also shares details of his last 12 months and how he lost everything and ended up sleeping rough since last August. Special thanks to Ciaran Moran for the use of his song 'It's Okay' as part of this episode. Insta:ciaranmoranmusic The full interview with Mick is available here:https://www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-100283429

On today's show, survivalist Stefan Verstappen stresses the importance of not living in fear despite these uncertain times and strongly suggests being prepared for any extreme by stocking up on essential items, learning key skills, and building a community. GUEST OVERVIEW: Stefan H. Verstappen is a Canadian author, researcher, and adventurer. He has written dozens of articles for various magazines and newspapers and is the author of 8 books including THE WAY OF THE WARRIOR, THE THIRTY-SIX STRATEGIES OF ANCIENT CHINA, and THE ART OF URBAN SURVIVAL. He has worked as an instructor for St John Ambulance, a wilderness guide, a community organizer, and a martial arts instructor with over thirty-five years' experience in the martial arts including four years spent studying in China. He is the creator of the viral YouTube documentary, Defense Against the Psychopath, and the Paradise Stolen series and 200 other videos. https://www.chinastrategies.com/

St John says it anticipates pulling some ambulances off the road when staff are sick or on leave will continue until the start of winter. It's limiting calling in extra staff to save money. Ambulance Services Deputy Chief Executive Dan Ohs says they expect the workload to rise from late May. "Doing this now enables us to make sure we've got the financial depth in order to ensure we can stand additional resources up for winter." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to our series of bite-sized episodes featuring favourite moments from the Leading for Business Excellence podcast series.In this minisode, we're joined by David Sheldon, former Head of CI at St John Ambulance, as he explores the role of data in managing and assessing the effectiveness of vaccination efforts during the pandemic.Listen to the full episode here: https://pmi.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast-embodying-continuous-improvement-with-david-sheldon-head-of-ci-at-st-john-ambulance/ 

Cost-saving changes at St John Ambulance are sparking concern among staff and paramedics. The service has limited recalls of backup staff when employees are sick or taking leave, meaning some ambulances are left parked up. Ambulance Association National Secretary Mark Quin says this is proof the company is putting their budget over people's lives. "We're restricting the number of ambulances being available anywhere in the country on a daily basis due to the fact that we're not recalling staff." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Everything we know so far about the Clapham alkali attack, and St John Ambulance explains what to do if you ever witness, or are the victim of, a chemical attack.A study suggests a malaria vaccine is highly effective in young children.The secret to why some dogs live longer than others.Also in this episode:Amazon and Meta stocks surge after results, while Apple dropsClimate campaigner Greta Thunberg speaks out about her trial Bedbugs scare at government office building The most romantic love songs ranked, according to Spotify playlists Follow us on X or on Threads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Widowed AF , Rosie warmly welcomes her latest guest, Lisa Aldridge. Lisa's story, woven with threads of love, loss, and newfound happiness, unfolds like a novel you can't put down.Our story begins with Lisa, a vibrant volunteer at St John Ambulance, where fate brings Gavin into her life. Their connection is instant and profound, leading them down the aisle and into a life filled with shared dreams and the laughter of three beautiful daughters.But life, as it often does, turns a new page. One ordinary day, while working in his unit, Gavin suffers a tragic accident. The details are heart-wrenching as Lisa recalls the aftermath, painting a vivid picture of a world turned upside down.As the chapters of grief and coping unfold, Lisa's narrative takes a hopeful turn. She dips her toes into the world of online dating, where Chris, her now-husband, emerges as a character brimming with understanding and love. Together, they embark on the challenging yet rewarding journey of blending two families, each with its unique past and shared future.Rosie and Lisa delve into the delicate art of balancing memories and moving forward. They discuss how maintaining Gavin's legacy coexists with embracing the joy Chris brings into their lives.Lisa's journey, beautifully narrated in this episode, is a tale of resilience. It's about finding love in unexpected places, the complexities of blending a new family, and the endless capacity of the heart to embrace both past and present.As the episode draws to a close, Rosie reflects on the universal themes of love, loss, and the courage to find happiness again. Lisa's story is not just her own but a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the waters of grief and love.Web: (https://www.widowedaf.com)Instagram (@widowed_af)Watch on (YouTube)If you enjoy the show please consider subscribing and give us a review on what ever

A St John ambulance staffer says she feared paramedics would be sitting ducks if she sent them to the scene of the Christchurch terror attacks. The inquest into the 51 deaths resulting from the mosque attacks continues in front of deputy chief coroner Brigette Windley. The St John dispatcher told the inquiry she didn't know where the shooter was and she feared for paramedics' safety. Anna Sargent was in court. [audio_play] Warning, this audio contains distressing details.

Barbie's in the pink at the moment. There's a huge buzz surrounding a new comedy-fantasy film about the iconic and multi-vocational doll hitting screens next week. Collecting Barbie dolls has been a decades-long passion for retired St John Ambulance paramedic Patsy Carlyle. Her Helensville home aka The Pink Palace houses over 1,600 boxed Barbie dolls, and more than four hundred freestanding dolls. Patsy and hundreds of her dolls are being celebrated in The Barbie Collector at Wellington Museum from 22nd July - 10th Sept.

Michael Lynch, Safeguarding Consultant and former Senior Investigating Officer with the National Child Protection Unit, discusses calls for new powers to ensure child safeguarding procedures are implemented.

Fiona Jennings, ISPCC Head of Policy, reacts to the review into the handling of complaints of sexual abuse at the voluntary first-aid organisation St John Ambulance

A review into the handling of complaints of sexual abuse at the voluntary first aid organisation St John Ambulance has found its Garda vetting system is incomplete creating the potential for unvetted individuals to gain access to children. Aoife Hegarty of RTÉ Investigates reports.

This week we're dedicating the programme to a common medical emergency – one that can be deadly within minutes without the right help to hand. A cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body. We'll hear from a doctor who battled for five hours to save a man 40,000ft up in the air; a student who's teaching people not to be afraid to help in an emergency and we'll hear a survivor's story of life after cardiac arrest. Globally, there are tens of thousands of cardiac arrests outside of hospital every year. Fewer than one in 10 survive and this number varies depending on where you live, as does the availability of life-saving defibrillators – our studio guest Dr Belinda Fenty tells us more. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the first few minutes after the heart stops beating can be crucial. We have a live demo from a volunteer with UK charity St John Ambulance. Join us for an action-packed programme that might just help you save a life. Image: Dr Vishwaraj Vemala is thanked by the captain of the Air India flight after he saved a fellow passenger's life Presenter: Smitha Mundasad Producer: Gerry Holt