As we head into Spring after what feels like a very long winter, I’m delighted to welcome you all to another edition of the Northolt Approach. The range of activity taking place at RAF Northolt is as broad and inspiring as ever; the Station has welcomed visitors including members of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme, the first female Chancellor of the Exchequer and other inspiring female role models in celebration of International Women’s Day, whilst hosting fundraising activities in support of Service charities, community visits and force development, all against a background of continuous and busy operational output. Thank you all for your contributions, and for your continued insights into life and work at Northolt; I hope you all enjoy yet another bumper read!

What a relief it is to see the end of Winter and the long dark nights. Seeing the first blossom and early spring flowers brings a renewed energy; we can look forward to welcoming the new season and hopefully enjoying some long overdue sunshine! As always, we have a full calendar of events during the spring and early summer. We look forward to marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe or VE Day in May, where all are encouraged to commemorate and to celebrate the end of the Second World War in Europe, perhaps through communities gathering together for street parties as they did in 1945. It is made all the more relevant given current events in Europe and renewed focus on Defence and Security. Armed Forces Day in late June will then provide the opportunity for the nation to say thank you to today’s Armed Forces community – Regulars, Reserves, and of course the families and friends who support them.

Welcome to the Spring Edition of Insight Magazine. Hopefully everyone has enjoyed the recent Bank Holidays and has managed to take some time where possible out of their busy schedules over Easter. As ever this issue of Insight Magazine has a variety of articles from around Station. 51 Squadron feature prominently with the lay up of their old Squadron Standard and the consecration of the new, as well as an article covering the Chief of the Air Staff’s flight on the Rivet Joint. There are also articles from the RAF Waddington Running Club who continue to compete in events all over Lincolnshire and are consistently on the lookout for new members and the RAF Waddington Heritage Centre who are in the midst of developing a large art project for display which is due to be formally unveiled in August. The opportunity to get an early preview of this artwork can be arranged through the Heritage Centre who are always keen to accommodate both Section and family visits.