Senior Aircaftman Simon Watkins

Simon is a Mechanical Technician and flies with Red 10, Squadron Leader Mike Ling. Circus 10 also travels to show locations with Red 10 to film the display for the pilots’ de-brief. This is his second year on Circus.

Age – 28

Education – Framingham Earl High School in Norwich before studying engineering at Norwich City College. Simon is now working towards his Part 66 Aircraft License at Barry College.

Career – Simon joined the Royal Air Force in 2002, following in the footsteps of his father who was a Royal Air Force Dental Officer. After training he worked at Royal Air Force Wittering in the Deep Strip Bay for the Harrier Pegasus Engine, supporting the Harrier on its operational commitments. He was posted to the Red Arrows in 2009. Simon was awarded the Public Relations 'Blue of the Year' accolade for his work during the 2010 season.

Background – Now living in Lincoln with his wife Louise, Simon enjoys mountain biking, surfing, snowboarding, swimming and kite-surfing. He helps out with the Scouts in Lincoln. He flew with Flight Lieutenant Plank for the 2011 season.