THREE newly-qualified RAF officers from North Yorkshire are flying high after graduating from military college.

Chris Thornton, James Carlton and Andrew Longbottom graduated as Flying Officers from the officer and air crew cadet training unit at RAF Cranwell, in Lincolnshire.

The trio celebrated their achievements with 123 other cadets at a recent graduation parade.

Mr Thornton, 32, who lives in Brompton, near Northallerton, joined the RAF in 1998.

Having graduated, he will begin training as a medical support officer.

He said: "I have very much enjoyed my time in the RAF, serving as a photographer for five years and then as an environmental health technician.

"I am now looking forward to starting my career as a commissioned officer."

Mr Carlton, 23, who parents live in Northallerton, attended Thirsk School.

He joined the RAF in July last year and will now begin training as a pilot.

He said: "I am very proud to have graduated and eagerly look forward to beginning flying training."

Mr Longbottom, who lives in Northallerton, attended Northallerton College before going on to study at Liverpool University.

He also joined the RAF in July last year and will now begin his training as an engineering officer.

He said: "I am very proud to have graduated as an officer in the RAF.

"I have worked hard over a number of years to get to this stage and I now look forward to a long and prosperous career."