Andrew Western MP for Stretford and Urmston
Andrew Western recently met Air Cadet Nathaniel McMurray – a constituent that’s flying high to raise money in support of Veterans.
Urmston resident Nathaniel, who gained his pilot’s licence at the age of 17, has an ambitious plan to fly up to 100 veterans in a Cessna 172 (donated by High G Flight Training). Nathaniel is also planning to organise events on the flying days, to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.
Nathaniel McMurray said: “For as long as I can remember I have wanted to be a pilot. At the age of 14 I had my first flying lesson and shortly after my 17th birthday, I passed my final skills test – qualifying for my Private Pilot’s Licence. Recently, I started to think about how I could use my licence to make a positive impact.
“As I am a member of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, I wanted to somehow give back to the ex-service personnel that I so greatly respect. As such, I decided that I would use my passion for aviation to make a difference.”
Nathaniel’s local MP, Andrew Western said: “Tomorrow one of my constituents, an amazing young man called Nathaniel McMurray, who gained his pilot’s licence at just 17, will be doing the second of his planned charity flights for veterans to raise money for the Royal British Legion.
“His first event was a big success. He took a former RAF bomber command veteran, aged 97, for a flight around Manchester, and his upcoming events promise to be just as special.
“I know that Nathaniel wants to inspire the next generation of aviators and there’s no doubt in my mind that he’ll do exactly that with this impressive endeavour.”
Nathaniel’s Flying events will take place once a month at Manchester Barton Aerodrome. The first event took place on Sunday 30 April. His next event is tomorrow (Saturday 17 June), followed by events on: Saturday 8 July and Saturday 5 August.