“Last night was the graduation ceremony and presentation evening for 1260 Newark ATC Squadron of which I am a member, and it is with total amazement that at the end of the evening during the presentations that I was awarded “Best Staff Member”. It is a great honour as all the staff involved do so on a voluntary basis, and give whatever time they have available. So it was very humbling to be given this accolade which was voted for by the staff and senior cadets.

The awards ceremony was attended by the cadets and parents at the Newark RAFA club and was overseen by Trent Wing Officer Commanding, Wing Commander Tony Wright. Pictured with myself and my son George who is at the moment going through the selection process of joining the Royal Air Force himself. He was also awarded the Sqn shooting trophy for outstanding marksmanship in competitions.

I must give a massive thanks to my employers “Forces Cars Direct” as without the ongoing support of the Managing Director Steve Thornton, and the whole team at FCD who allow me the time off to support this very worthwhile youth organisation, I probably would not have been able to receive this accolade. On that note next week, I am attending a 5 day residential course at Frimley Park CTC. Where I will be undertaking a “Skill at Arms Instructor” course, which will allow me to be able to teach cadets all aspects of weapon handling and range practices on the L98A2 rifle, again supported by FCD in allowing me the time off to complete this course.”