AN RAF regiment is keeping the memory of one of its comrades alive by strengthening its links with his former primary school.

Members of 34 Squadron, based at RAF Leeming, in North Yorkshire, visited youngsters at St Helen Auckland Primary School, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, to give them a taste of what life is like in the forces.

The team were comrades of 25-year-old Andrew Wilson, from Manor Road, in St Helen Auckland, who died last June in a parachuting accident in Peterlee, County Durham.

Since Mr Wilson's death the squadron, which has recently returned from a tour of duty in Iraq, has held a charity fundraising match in Bishop Auckland in his memory and has also taken his former school under its wing.

Yesterday, the children were allowed to explore vehicles and equipment which the squadron had taken with them to Iraq.

The visit also gave the men the chance to see a "buddy seat" which they sponsored, to be placed in the playground in memory of Mr Wilson.

Flight Lieutenent Paul Newton said: "It is nice to be able to visit the school.

"Being here has meant that we were able to see the seat that the school has bought in Andrew's memory and also let the children see what we do."

The squadron was joined by Mr Wilson's sister, Julie, and parents, John and Christine.

Mr Wilson said: "We are really indebted to the regiment for all they have done for us and for continuing its friendship with the school.

"It is great for the school and it is a nice way of keeping Andrew's memory alive.''