AFTER nearly four decades of service with the Royal Air Force, which saw him honoured by the Queen twice, an air traffic controller has hung up his headset for the final time.

Thomas Neil Davies, aged 55, left from RAF Benson, near Wallingford, for the last time, last month, after being stationed for the last 13 years of a long and varied career in the air force.

Bidding farewell to the warrant officer, the station engagement officer at RAF Benson Nikki Hamilton said: “His plethora of achievements is testament to his character and commitment.

“A hugely personable individual, he has set the highest of standards and has been an invaluable role model for those serving with him.

“Throughout his lengthy and diverse career, WO Thomas Davies has proven to be incomparable asset to the RAF.

“His sound and utterly reliable counsel has been cherished by all who have had the honour to serve with him.

“RAF Benson wishes him all the best in his well-earned retirement from the service.”

Mr Davies, known to friends as Neil, said: "At present it feels as though I am on leave or on holiday; although in a week or so I won’t be donning the 'blues' and going back into work.

"Having spent 38 years in the RAF, it will be 39 when I finally retire as I am currently on leave and a period of resettlement. I am just planning to take it easy until after the Christmas period to acclimatise myself into civilian life.

"After that I will be looking for other opportunities and employment, as I feel that I will need to do something to keep me occupied; any offers from readers gratefully received!

"The send off was great and not too much of a surprise. After all you do see a variety of farewells in 38 years.

"However, they haven’t finished yet as with Christmas there are always end of year functions and celebrations to attend and say final farewells."

First joining the Royal Air Force in 1978, Mr Davies was posted to RAF Scampton, in Lincolnshire, as an Assistant Air Traffic Controller.

While there he volunteered for duties transporting the Royal Family on The Queen’s Flight, a decision which allowed for his selection for a permanent post and a move to the Oxfordshire base at Benson in 1979.

For his commitment and loyalty, he was awarded a commendation in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 1982.

Remaining on the flight after his promotion to Corporal he was posted to RAF Brize Norton several years later in 1986.

The same year in recognition of his exceptional service on The Queen’s Flight he was personally awarded the Royal Victoria Medal from The Queen in the New Year Honours List.

He went on to have a long and varied career before finished his career at RAF Benson as Air Traffic Control Squadron Warrant Officer.