Rayleigh and Wickford MP and former Armed Forces Minister Mark Francois recently paid a visit to an RAF Reserve Unit when he spent the day with 600 (City of London) Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force, who are based at RAF Northolt in Middlesex.
The Squadron, which is over 100 strong, recruits from across the London and Essex area and provides support to the regular Air Force in fields such as flight operations, medical and clerical services.
Mark, who served as a Reserve Infantry Officer during the Cold War, then spent time with the recruits hearing about how they learn new skills as reservists which can be of benefit to both them and their civilian employers. The squadron is actually oversubscribed at present and has a waiting list of people who are keen to join.
Speaking about his visit to 600 Squadron Mark Francois said:
“As a former reservist myself and a former MOD Minister to boot, I continue to take a strong interest in the reserve forces, including this squadron which covers Essex as part of its recruiting ground. Service in the reserve forces can be extremely rewarding and is paid on top and I would seriously encourage anyone who has a bit of spare time on their hands to think about a career with the reserves.”
Anyone who is interested in joining the squadron is encouraged to telephone 0345 606 9069 for more information.