Flying high

Royal Air Force Association welfare officer Muriel Simpson with members Ray Fiddes (left) and Lawrence Hay.

Even as the nation marked the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, a new report claimed a large number of RAF veterans face some of their darkest days.

The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund says a significant number of young and old veterans suffer loneliness, depression, bereavement and relationship troubles.

The charity wants struggling former servicemen and women to contact them and is appealing to anyone who knows of any RAF veterans and their families needing their help to make contact.

Oldham veterans can reach out to the RAF Association’s local welfare officer Muriel Simpson, from Royton, who joined RAFA when her husband, branch secretary Derek, left the RAF in 1982.

The branch currently has 100 members who can get financial help and support. But she knows there are many more veterans in need.

“The armed services have a very regimented lifestyle,” said Muriel, a former Oldham police officer.

“You’re told when you will work, when you will sleep, this that and the other and that is your life.

“Civvy street isn’t like that and I think a lot of servicemen and women find it difficult to adjust. Part of my job is just to go round and chat with them. They like nothing more.”

The local association also works hard to maintain camaraderie and a social outlet for veterans by meeting twice a month at its base at the Tommyfield pub in Henshaw Street.

For more information on the Oldham branch of RAFA call Derek Simpson on 07709-092 066.