1710 Naval Air Squadron spruces up pre-school
Six members of a Naval Air Squadron spent their Easter holidays giving a Gosport pre-school a new lease of life.
The team from Portsmouth-based 1710 Naval Air Squadron - more used to repairing helicopters across the world – spent several days weather-proofing and painting Steady Steps Pre-School and Nursery.
Julie Pickthall, the Early Years Practice Manager, said: ''The building opened in 2007 but was in need of renovation.
“I can’t tell you how much better I feel now I know the building is weather tight again.
Steady Steps is fully committed to helping and supporting all Armed Forces families in our local area.
Petty Officer Dave Wiggins
“I was really worried about next winter and the impact of the weather on the building if we had just left it.
“When you drive into the school you can see straight away how fresh it looks now!
“I can’t thank 1710 NAS Repair Section enough for all the hard work they have put in to sorting this for us.
“Thanks for all your efforts.”
Petty Officer Dave Wiggins, the project lead, said: ''My two daughters have been to Steady Steps with one currently still attending Nursery.
“The team here works so hard to give the children the best start and helps them to develop so they are ready for their next stage into school.
“When asked to help out I thought it would be a challenge but also a pleasure to help.
“Steady Steps is fully committed to helping and supporting all Armed Forces families in our local area.
“They always go over and above what is expected from a pre-school or Nursery to support our families.”
Joining PO Wiggins on the project were Chief Petty Officer Liam Sutherland, Staff Sergeant Steve Herring and Petty Officer’s Adam Brennan, Tony Remmer, and Sean Quinn.
The mission of 1710 NAS is to provide specific support to the Fleet through recovering, sustaining and enhancing aviation and general military capability around the world.
The squadron are the MOD’s lead experts in helicopter airframe structural damage and repairs, deploying around the world to all climates and operational theatres to support and repair all tri-Service helicopters at a moment’s notice.