New RAF officer ready to begin pilot training

A NEWLY-qualified Royal Air Force officer from Dover is flying high after graduating from a prestigious military college.

James Bates, 20, graduated as a Pilot Officer from No 15 Initial Officer Training Course at the Officer and Aircrew Cadet Training Unit at RAF Cranwellin, Lincolnshire.

James joined 137 other cadets outside the historic College Hall to parade in front of Air Vice-Marshal Barry North, Air Officer Commanding No 22 (Training) Group and Chief of Staff Headquarters Air Command. Music on the day was provided by the Band of the Royal Air Force College and there were flypasts.

James, whose parents Chris and Ruth still live in Dover, attended Dover Grammar School for Boys before working for Deacon Landscape Management.

He joined the RAF in January this year and now that he has graduated as an officer he will soon begin his professional training as a pilot.

James is a former gliding instructor at 615 Volunteer Gliding School.