A Keighley man is flying high after gaining his wings from the Royal Air Force.

Flight Lieutenant Robert Bethel, whose parents live in Highfield Lane, received his award during a ceremony at RAF Valley on the island of Anglesey in Wales.

The former Holy Family School pupil and member of Keighley air cadets has been based at Valley since he graduated from RAF Linton-on-Ouse in September last year. During his training he received two top awards - Pilot Navigator Trophy and the General Flying Trophy - for his outstanding performances.

Parents Peter and Kath, who also have a younger daughter, Angie, attended the ceremony on July 31 - Robert's 25th birthday. "I am absolutely delighted," says Peter. "We are all so proud of him. It was the day I have been waiting for."

Unfortunately, Robert's flying has been curtailed at the moment. He has been grounded with glandular fever and is unable to fly for the next four months.

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