Tips to help navigate this blog:
- TOP: Blog posts by location within Cyprus and Location Guides; links to HIVE's Social Media, and a map of contact details for our worldwide network of information centres.
- LEFT COLUMN: Use the search engine; sign up to receive our weekly email updates, or find information by subject.
- RIGHT COLUMN: Contact HIVE with your specific query.
- CENTRAL SECTION: All the latest posts in date order:

Thursday, 27 August 2026

Tri-Service Contact House Directory – where to find it online, or how to request a copy

 


Contact Houses, also known as Welfare Houses, are short term military accommodation available predominantly for welfare-related bookings, but can sometimes be used by those visiting for leisure reasons. These houses are usually managed by unit staff, where there will be localised policies on priorities for bookings, booking procedures, costs and how to pay.

To access the most up to date version of the Tri-Service Contact House Directory, please use any of the following options:

 

BFPO Christmas 2026 Mailing Guidance

 

Dear Military Service Families,

Please be aware of the following important BFPO Christmas 2026 mailing guidance for all families and friends sending items to personnel overseas.

As Christmas approaches, BFPO anticipates several technical challenges during the traditional peak mailing period (October–December 2026). Some of these challenges fall outside BFPO control, so customers are advised early on how best to ensure items arrive in time for Christmas or other special occasions.

BFPO will continue to process and dispatch all Operational mail throughout the Christmas period. However, the latest safe posting date for overseas firm‑base locations will be brought forward to 30 October 2026.

Families and friends are strongly encouraged to post early wherever possible. After this date, BFPO cannot guarantee delivery before Christmas, and some items may not arrive until the New Year. Please also factor in current customs import processes, which may add extra time to final delivery.

Customers are reminded of the following:
• All mail items sent to a BFPO address must include a customs declaration form, as required under international import/export regulations.
• Items arriving at BFPO Northolt without a customs declaration will be returned to sender. Non‑compliant items without a return address may be disposed of as undeliverable in line with UK Mail Industry Standards.
• BFPO does not offer a guaranteed timed service and holds no liability for items that are perishable, out of date, or unusable upon receipt.

BFPO appreciates your support and understanding during this challenging period. Posting early remains the most effective way to avoid disappointment.

Tuesday, 25 August 2026

Episkopi and Akrotiri HomeStart Childrens activities

 


Akrotiri Archery Club needs volunteers

 


Defence Children Services students celebrate 2026 exam results

 


Students at Defence Children Services secondary schools have been celebrating throughout August, with many progressing to university, military careers and apprenticeships. Read more about this year's results at Queen Victoria School, King Richard School and St John's School:  

Defence Children Services students celebrate 2026 exam results

Life Guards wanted at Episkopi Pool

 


Episkopi Space Theatre