Twenty six members of the RAF Association (Ryedale Branch) gathered at the picturesque Mallyan Spout Hotel in Goathland for their annual summer lunch.

The event, a highlight of the social calendar, was made even more special with the presence of Marc Boyle, the Branch Member and Wellbeing Officer, who traveled all the way from Manchester to be the guest speaker after the meal.

Mr Boyle provided an update on the current and future plans of the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA), emphasising the increased need for support following the pandemic and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

With more beneficiaries requiring financial assistance, the association is also focusing on addressing mental health issues and combatting loneliness, as many individuals now find themselves living alone.

Branches such as the Ryedale branch play a crucial role in reaching out to former RAF service personnel and their beneficiaries, offering them the necessary help and support.

The RAF Association is a registered charity and membership organisation that provides welfare support to the wider RAF family.

While it primarily serves serving and ex-serving personnel, as well as their dependents, membership is open to anyone with an interest in or connection to the Royal Air Force.

The Ryedale branch also holds monthly meetings at the Ham & Cheese in Scagglethorpe, featuring interesting speakers.

They also organise social lunches and fundraising events in and around the Ryedale area.