RAF ODIHAM hosted a light show to help get thousands of RAF veterans get 'back on the radar.'

The RAF Benevolent Fund, has launched a new centenary campaign called 'Join The Search. Change A Life' to help get RAF veterans the support that they might need.

The launch, timed to coincide with the Fund’s centenary, took place at RAF Odiham and saw more than 1,000 RAF family members come together to form a ‘Human Radar’ lightshow to highlight the charity’s search for those who served and may now need support.

Across the South East, the Fund has helped more than 580 people over the past year and has spent over £2.6 million. However, the Fund aims to at least double the number of people it supports.

Research carried out by the Fund estimates that the RAF Family is made up of 1.4 million people who are either serving or who have served in the RAF and their spouses, partners or dependent children. Three quarters of them are aged over 65 and, in total, research shows that at least 300,000 need support.

Air Vice-Marshal David Murray, chief executive of the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “We know they’re out there. Men and women who once served, or did their National Service in the RAF, and now need our help.

"No veteran should be left fighting alone, whether that be in the face of financial, emotional or health problems. We have life-changing support available for all members of the RAF Family.

“Too many ex-Service people do not seek the support that is rightfully theirs due to misplaced pride, shame or through not knowing support is there.

“So, in our centenary year we are launching a major campaign to get people to think about who they know who may be eligible for and in need of our support."

"They may be your friends, neighbours or relatives. They did their duty – now we, as a society, must do ours before it’s too late.”

For more information on the fund, visit: rafbf.org