I have been a member of the Air Training Corps since the age of 13. I joined as a cadet at 86 (Heston & Isleworth) Squadron in 1979. I reached the dizzy heights of Flight Sergeant, taking part in every activity going. I then joined 342 (Ealing & Brentford) Squadron as a Civilian instructor in February 1986 after reaching the upper age limit.
I started as Sports Officer then moved onto Adventure Training, organising local weekend camps in the Chalfonts. I applied and became an Adult Warrant Officer in April 1992. In July 1996 I completed my first Nijmegen marches and was appointed Middlesex Wing Team leader the year after. I joined Middlesex Wing Staff in 2002 as Deputy Wing Adventure Training Technical Officer (DWATTO), assisting Flt Lt "H" Tanner in all aspects of adventure training. I was appointed Temporary Warrant Officer Commanding 342 (Ealing & Brentford) Squadron in Jan 2003. I have recently re-located to Somerset and have now joined 2019 (Sidmouth) Sqn which will bring new challenges for me.
I am currently training for various outdoor instructor qualifications. I have completed the Mountain Leader Training Board Summer Training and the Single Pitched Supervisors award training. I hope to be completing the assessments during 2005. During 2005 I will also hopefully complete my British Canoe Union Level 1 Coach. I hold a current First Aid at Work certificate.
I have led many UK expeditions to the Lake District, Snowdonia, Dartmoor and the Black Mountains. I assisted in overseas expeditions to Bavaria (three times) and was 2iC at Expedition Volcano Eagle in Ecuador. I have completed the Nijmegen marches in Holland five times, four of which were as team leader.
I helped lead Steppes Eagle; Mongolia is a truly majestic country, the people are so hospitable and friendly. I especially enjoyed the project phase where we totally transformed a kindergarten. “FANTASTIC.”
I am looking forward to Ghana, working with the Ghana National Cadet Corps and the local communities. Once again this will be a huge challenge for us all which I am confident that we will rise to the challenge.
My maddest moment I believe was mountain biking off a Cotopaxi Volcano with a makeshift cardboard arm...
