AN ASPIRING RAF pilot has taken the first step towards winning his wings after graduating from officer training school.

Former Bancroft's School pupil Sajjad Huq has made it through the Initial Officer Training course at the airforce training centre - RAF Cranwell - with flying colours and will now begin his elementary flight training.

The 23-year-old paraded in front of his proud family alongside more than 130 other cadets outside the historic College Hall in Lincolnshire - with the event featuring music from the Royal Airforce Band and a special flypast.

Mr Huq, whose parents still live in Ilford, joined the RAF after graduating with a degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Sheffield.

He said: "Joining the RAF as a pilot has always been an ambition of mine.

"I am so happy to have finally graduated as an officer."

Bancroft's School spokeswoman Karen Rogers said: "Sajjad now hopes to carry out fast jet training at RAF Linton-on-Ouse.

"Sajjad is a former member of the RAF Section of Bancroft School's Combined Cadet Force and was also an officer cadet on Yorkshire Universities Air Squadron.

"A keen sportsman, he enjoys football, skiing and motor sport."