Background 

Matt joined the RAF in 2003, having completed initial flying training on Oxford University Air Squadron. He qualified as a pilot in 2005 and was posted to 18(B) Sqn, RAF Odiham flying the Chinook where he served for two operational tours. In 2010 he was selected for instructional duties where he taught Chinook aircraft conversion before returning to the frontline. 

During his 10 years on the Chinook, Matt completed eight tours on Op HERRICK flying over 100 MERT missions and helped to extract over 150 casualties. He also served on Op SADDLERY in Northern Ireland, led the aviation contingency response team for the 2012 Olympic Games and took part in multiple exercises across the world. 

Matt left the RAF in 2014 but continues to fly, serving as a Search & Rescue Commander on behalf of HM Coastguard. He also volunteers as an RAF Reservist flying Air Cadets in the Grob Tutor. He lives in South Wales with his wife and 2 children; in his spare time he enjoys Formula 1 Motorsport and is a decidedly average golfer.