Dave Thompson MSP

Highlands and Islands MSP Dave Thompson (SNP) has boosted the coffers of a major charity and in return will be able to see an aspect of military life for many in his constituency for himself.

Last month (Friday June 26) Mr Thompson was invited to attend a fundraising event in aid of the British Red Cross at the Black Isle Showground and was thrilled to see displays of the valuable work carried out across Scotland by the organisation.

One of the lots at a silent auction during the event caught his attention and he submitted the winning bid for an hour-long session on the Nimrod flight simulator at RAF Kinloss and soon he plans to visit the base with his son-in-law to learn about the experience of pilots as they fly the new generation of Nimrod MRA4 surveillance and rescue planes off Scotland's coast and in war zones around the world.

"I was happy to accept the invitation to attend the fundraiser for the British Red Cross, who I believe do a fantastic job of protecting the public at major events throughout the country," Mr Thompson said.

"I viewed my bid in the auction as a donation to an extremely worthwhile cause but it comes with the advantage of allowing me to see what it would be like to fly one of these magnificent machines which play an extremely important role in co-ordinating search and rescue missions right across the Highlands and Islands.

"I have always fancied learning to fly so I think the day will be great fun but there is a serious side to this too. I will have an opportunity to speak to personnel on the base and ask about how they are prepared for the arrival of the new fleet of MRA4 Nimrods."

Mr Thompson plans to visit RAF Kinloss to collect his prize on Thursday July 22.