I am saddened at today’s announcement of the closure of RAF Linton-on-Ouse. The RAF has confirmed that it would vacate Linton-on-Ouse by 2020 with pilot training being transferred to RAF Valley on Anglesey. I have been aware of the threat for some time and have held a number of meetings with the Defence Secretary, Ministers and senior Defence Staff to try to prevent closure, sadly to no avail.
The base has over 80 years of proud history, not least during World War II when its planes, pilots and aircrew took off for highly-dangerous long-distance bombing raids on Germany, Norway and other Axis military bases in Europe.
My thoughts are with the many staff and their families who have been based there over the last eight decades, and particularly the 300 service personnel and their families who work there today.
I am working closely with Hambleton District Council to make the best of the opportunities ahead.