AN airbase in North Yorkshire has established connections Down Under thanks to an Aussie airman whose parents live in York.

Steve Martyn, from the No 25 (City of Perth) Squadron Royal Australian Air Force Reserve, visited his parents in the city and thought it would be a good opportunity to set up a liaison with RAF Leeming's No 25 (Fighter) Squadron.

A letter of introduction from his Squadron Commander authenticated Steve's visit to RAF Leeming.

During his visit, Steve was given a full history and brief on the role of No 25 (Fighter) Squadron and then had to opportunity to view one of the fighters at close quarters.

He was presented with a scale drawing of one of the squadron's Tornado F3 aircraft, while he handed over a plaque from his squadron in Australia.

PICTURE: FLYING START: From left: Flt Lt Ian Hutchinson, Sqn Ldr Derek Smith, Australian airman Steve Martyn and his father, David Martyn and Flt Lt Christian Seymour, mark the link between RAF Leeming and Steve's own squadron