RAF St Mawgan personnel have rallied to support their local community this festive season, partnering with Newquay Foodbank to deliver vital food parcels to families in need.
Station Commander Wing Commander Helen Simpson and Station Warrant Officer Darrel Keane joined members of the People and Families Support Team to help pack and distribute parcels filled with seasonal essentials. Items included gravy, crackers, crisps, nuts, puddings, custard, orange juice, and chocolate treats, all destined for families across Newquay and surrounding villages such as St Mawgan, St Newlyn East and St Columb Major.
Adding a touch of humour to the occasion, Mrs Carol Atkinson, Community Development Officer, Warrant Officer Kev Riddle, Warrant Officer People & Families Support and Flight Sergeant ‘Winnie’ Churchill, Community Information Officer, delivered over £100 worth of donations collected from RAF St Mawgan personnel and their families pushing a trolley to the Foodbank whilst dressed as baked bean cans! The costumes reprised their memorable outfits from their epic three-day walking challenge earlier in 2025, which raised funds and awareness for the Foodbank.
The parcels were distributed via local schools to families referred to the Foodbank, ensuring support reached those who need it most. With demand doubling this year, Newquay Foodbank will provide food to 143 families, a stark reminder of the growing need within the community.
The Foodbank continues to welcome donations, particularly tins of tuna, meats and soups, and is actively seeking volunteers, drivers and administrative support to sustain its vital work.
It’s a privilege for RAF St Mawgan to stand alongside the Foodbank team and support our local community. The generosity of our personnel and their families reflects the strong bond we share with Newquay and the surrounding villages.
Wing Commander Helen Simpson, Station Commander RAF St Mawgan
Cornwall has nearly double the UK average of veterans, with 6.3% of its population having served in the armed forces compared to the national average of 3.8%. Nationally, one in seven (14%) veterans used a food bank in the past year.
Looking ahead, the People and Families Team will embark on another epic walk in aid of Newquay Foodbank next March, covering a marathon distance each day for three days across the Newquay area. Watch this space for future details!
