THE new Bedale and RAF Leeming Branch of the RAF Association has recently opened and wants to welcome new members.

The association offers friendship, help and support to the "RAF family" including current and former serving personnel, their spouses, widows, widowers and other dependants.

The branch chairman, Wing Commander Chris Thorpe, said: “I would urge anyone who is serving or who has served in the RAF, or indeed anyone who is interested in supporting the Association, to come along to one of our meetings to see what we’re all about.

"It’s free to visit us and we’re always keen to meet new people.”

Anyone interested in finding out more should contact the Bedale and RAF Leeming RAF Association Branch at rafabedaleleeming@gmail.com.