A RED Arrows’ engineer from New Cumnock who has been deployed all over the world with the Royal Air Force (RAF) has been made an MBE.

Warrant Officer David Lloyd, 53, received the accolade for his service to the RAF during a 36-year-career which has taken him to Iraq, Afghanistan, the Falkland Islands, Kosovo, the former Yugoslavia, Germany and Canada.

His globe trotting has been replaced by more thrills, after his appointment as squadron warrant officer with the RAF’s aerobatic team, the Red Arrows, where he helps prepare the aircraft for their gravity-defying stunts.

Now based in Rutland, in the East Midlands, which is near RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire, the Red Arrows’ base, he received his honour from the Queen during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

He said: “Receiving the honour was the proudest day in my career, which has spanned 36 years on operations worldwide. The ceremony at Buckingham Palace is now firmly etched in my memory and is an occasion that I’ll never forget.

“My most prominent memory as I prepare to leave the RAF will be the fine young men and women I have had the privilege to serve with.

“Their commitment to our country and all that the United Kingdom stands for, coupled with their professionalism, courage and honour, will stay with me as I prepare for the next chapter in my life.” David joined the RAF in 1978 and has since worked on many of the service’s current and past fast jet aircraft, including the Phantom, Jaguar, Tornado and Hawk, involving tours of duty across the globe, including three on the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious with the Harrier force.

Following his promotion to warrant officer in 2008, he became the first ex-flight line mechanic in the RAF to become an engineering warrant officer.

His current posting to the Red Arrows is the second time WO Lloyd has served with the world-renowned display team, which comprises 120 people, including pilots, technicians and essential support staff.

He was previously Flight Sergeant Engineering on the Red Arrows between 2006 and 2007 and, since rejoining, is now the most senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the team’s engineering department, responsible for the management, discipline and welfare of the squadron.

Away from his duties, David is equally proud of his daughter Helen and grandaughter Lily, as he reflects on the awards that he has won, as well as the MBE which came about following a recommendation by his senior officers.

Among his previous honours are a Chief of Air Staff Commendation, two further Air Officer Commendations and Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (LSGCM) with clasp. David is now in the process of preparing for a new career away from the RAF.