A 98-YEAR-OLD former Army helicopter pilot has taken to the skies once again with the help of a Jersey charity.
William “Bill” Hosking, who served with the Royal Artillery at Middle Wallop in 1958, was “thrilled” to fly around the Island with Skywalker Flight Training instructor Mike Owen earlier this month.
Mr Hosking was also in the Army Corps in Germany when helicopters were first deployed alongside front-line troops.
His latest flight was arranged by Helping Wings after the all-volunteer charity was contacted by the Jersey Deaf Society.
Helping Wings – which gives Islanders who may otherwise miss out because of their age, disability or other disadvantages the opportunity to experience flying – was “delighted to be able to offer Mr Hosking a round-the-island flight”.
The trip gave the veteran an opportunity to relive the excitement of his earlier career as an Army helicopter pilot.
Mr Hosking said that he “thoroughly enjoyed the flight”.
