A FORMER flying squadron that was disbanded in the 1950s is being reformed as an RAF Reserves Squadron and is recruiting part-time voluntary reserves from the Midlands area including Worcestershire and Warwickshire.

An open day for recruitment for logistics and ground staff is taking place at Cosford Air Show on May 30 where personnel from 605 (County of Warwick) Squadron will be on hand in the recruiting village to answer questions and start the recruitment process for those interested in joining.

The reformation forms part of the Ministry of Defence's plan to create a new, fully integrated reserve force that is well trained, well equipped and well funded, including a raft of measures offering crucial support and incentives to employers, the reservist and their families.

The man charged with reforming the squadron, Wing Commander Mike Sherburn, said: "My team and I cannot wait to get started. We are incredibly proud of what we can offer our potential reservists, both here at Cosford and in support of RAF operations either in the UK or overseas. Having been mobilised on operations as a reservist myself, I appreciate how juggling civilian commitments with the RAF Reserves takes dedication, however, the rewards in terms of challenges, training, esprit de corps and financial are worth it."

No stranger to the West Midlands, 605 Squadron was originally formed at Castle Bromwich in 1926. After a distinguished period of service, including a notable contribution during the Battle of Britain, the Squadron was finally disbanded in 1957. Over half a century later, the Squadron will start recruiting at the Nuffield Pavilion, RAF Cosford, from 10am to 2pm on Saturday May 30.

The Squadron's Head of Recruitment, Sergeant Nicola Tait added: She said: "It has been great to establish a reservist squadron in the West Midlands. RAF Cosford is a busy station with exceptional facilities and we feel it is the ideal location in which to recruit and retain chefs, suppliers, drivers and police. With the foundations now in place we look forward to meeting the general public at our recruiting events, starting with our Open Day at Cosford.

Anybody interested in joining 605 Squadron can enquire online at https://www.raf.mod.uk/recruitment/ or call 0345 606 9069. Alternatively you can follow the Sqn on Twitter (605 Sqn RAF Reserves @Cos605AuxSqn) or like their Facebook page (605 Sqn - RAF Reserves).