The Red Arrows – a view from the cockpit

The Red Arrows came zooming across the table tops at our meeting last week with a breath-taking presentation by Squadron Leader Tom Hansford. With thrilling video from up in the air, we learnt all about the planes, how pilots are selected, the training and just how exacting the role of being a member of the Red Arrows is. Physically – they face pressures on their bodies of up to 7G. Mentally – the split second timing requires immense concentration. Added to that, they act as ambassadors for our armed forces across the world. 

Tom, who is the godson of President Chris’ wife, Jane, spoke online from their base in Lincolnshire, at the beginning of another busy year for him as Red 7, one of the more senior roles in the formation. He was previously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for action while flying his Typhoon and has specialised in weapon instruction. 

It was yet another great Rotary evening shared by family and friends including from Winslow Rotary and Buckingham Inner Wheel and followed a super meal in the Granary of the Grand Junction. We all went home with a bit of a ‘Top Gun’ gleam in our eye!