Pupils at Haverfordwest VC school enjoyed a flying visit last Wednesday from an RAF Chinook helicopter.

The twin-bladed helicopter was piloted by 24-year-old Flying Officer, Matt Evans. Pembroke-born Matt was with his crew on a training exercise, and called into the school to visit his younger couisin Oliver.

Matt and his colleagues, all members of B Flight 18 Squadron based at RAF Odiham in Hampshire, have recently returned from operations in Afghanistan. They are due to return there in May.

Oliver and his schoolmates were overwhelmed with excitement to see the 30 metre Chinook land in their school playing field.

"That was amazing," said year five pupil Oliver. "It was like my heart was about to bounce out."

Head teacher, Michelle Thomas, said she hoped the children would find the visit memorable and inspirational.

"It's something that the children will always remember," she said. "It's also something for them to aspire to. The Flying Officer was only 24, it's only another 15 years until the children are that age. Perhaps they might like to join the RAF or any of the other services."

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