A KUWAITI airbase was the unlikely setting for the chance meeting of a pair of ex-Carnforth air cadets.

RAF propulsion technician Stephen Towers, 25, found himself working under the supervision of old family friend chief technician Tony Slater, 44, who now lives in Peterborough.

Although the men had never met before, their parents - who still live in Carnforth - have been friends for years.

Stephen's mother Stephanie explained: "We have always known Tony's parents, Frank and Pat, and both our sons went to Carnforth ATC. It was only when the war started that I thought maybe they would meet up.

"It is good to know someone whose son is serving in the same place."

Mr Towers, who joined the RAF when he was 21, is servicing and repairing Harrier jets which have been used in aerial bombardments in Iraq.

Unlike many parents Mrs Towers said she had not been worried about her son thanks to the constant contact of the RAF and regular updates in Nozzle News a paper produced by RAF servicemen in Kuwait.

She said that apart from the heat and sandstorms, which had been getting the troops down, her son was fine and was kept entertained by the car magazines she sent out.

In his regular phone calls home Mr Towers said he was "looking forward to a better sleep" and should be home in the next few months.

Mr Slater, who was awarded the Queen's commendation in the birthday honours last year, lives in Peterborough with his wife Belinda.

April 24, 2003 15:30