60 (Leek) Squadron recently staged a fund-raising helicopter 'pull' at RAF Shawbury to raise funds for the RAFA 'Top Flight' challenge
A challenge laid down by RAFA to all ATC squadrons throughout the country to raise money for them. The idea was the brainchild of Officer Commanding 60 (Leek) Squadron, Flt Lt Mark White.
"We had the idea some time ago," said Flt Lt Mark White. "After many phone calls, 60 (R) Squadron at RAF Shawbury, with whom we have a strong affiliation, gave us the go ahead."
On a cold winter's morning, 22 cadets and five staff pulled a five ton Wessex Helicopter along the 1834m runway. This massive effort raised over £400.
Accompanying the Wessex 'pull' were Squadron Leader 'Harry' Palmer, Officer Commanding 60 (R) Squadron, Squadron Leader 'Mac' McCarthy, an instructor and also the last pilot to fly the Wessex Helicopter in the RAF, and Flight Sergeant 'Chris' Richardson, a Crewman Instructor, who also organised the event with the ATC.
To add to the excitement of the day, students from Staffordshire University also came along and filmed the helicopter pull for presentation to the BBC.
About this article
This article was posted on January 29, 2006 at 106hrs and filed into the 'General' category by Plt Off Anthony Starkie.