A HIGH flying mum of two has taken command of Bury's 1036 Squadron.

Flight Lieutenant Elizabeth Thomas, who lives in the Myrtle Street area of Bury, has been appointed Commanding Officer of the borough's Air Training Corps.

She takes over from Flt Lt Brian Cooper who died in May after losing his fight against cancer.

Flt Lt Thomas, 39, has been an active member of staff at the Bury squadron since 1989, working her way from Civilian Instructor to Commissioned Officer in the RAF Volunteer Reserve in July 1991 and finally to Officer Commanding.

The 1036 Bury Squadron is one of the strongest within the East Lancashire Wing with a regular attendance of up to 55 cadets and a successful marching band.

Flt Lt Thomas officially took command of the squadron during the recent annual inspection.

The appointment was made by East Lancashire Wing Commanding Officer, WC Kevan Greenhalgh.

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