ATC leader’s sky-high honour

MARK ELLIOTT

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AN Oldhamer who has dedicated 35 years of his life to Royton ATC is spreading his wings.

Mark Hamilton — ironically refused admission to the RAF due to a teenage hip injury — has been promoted to sector commander for Greater Manchester and will take responsibility for seven units and the organisation’s sports wing.

But it means his time at Royton’s 1855 squadron will end — and Mark says accepting was the most difficult decision he has ever made.

Mark became hooked from the first night he joined the squad in July, 1977. He passed exams and rose through the ranks to become a cadet warrant officer, winning a gliding scholarship and Duke of Edinburgh Gold award in the process.

Mark took over Royton ATC in 1995, and has since led the squadron to major regional championships on many occasions.

Mark said: “It has been very hard to leave a place which has played such a big part in my life. I have enjoyed my time immensely.”

The squadron will now be run by retired policeman Mark Elliott, who has already enjoyed a highly successful career with the ATC with leadership roles at squadron and wing level.

“I know the unit’s proud history and traditions will enable its new commanding officer to continue with future success and I wish Mark well for his term of office,” said the outgoing commander.

The new squadron leader said: “Taking charge of a squadron as successful as Royton is a challenge and a privilege. I’ve met the staff and civilian instructors, who are all absolutely fantastic.”