Lewis-Manning hosted its third ‘An Audience with’ event at the Parkstone Yacht Club in Poole, with former Royal Air Force Jet Fighter Pilot Mandy Hickson.

Mandy Hickson has over 30 years’ experience within aviation, having joined the Royal Air Force in 1994.

She shared her incredible and inspirational journey to becoming a pioneering female fighter pilot and gave great insight, with much passion and humour, into the mindset of the world in which she moved.

Inspired by her grandfather who was a pilot in the 2^nd World War, Mandy took the audience from her time as a schoolgirl with pipe dreams to fly, overcoming resistance to females flying in the Air Force through her drive and tenacity, to the actual reality of achieving her ambitions, eventually flying the Tornado GR4 on the front line, battling in hostile environments, including patrolling the ‘No Fly’ zone over Iraq.  Her philosophy in life was clear – ‘Dream it, Believe it, Do it!’

Mandy spoke about the camaraderie of the forces, the incredible culture and the cohesive spirit that military gives you.

She shared advice and wisdom; “Control the controllables and if you can’t, let it go.”

Warren Munson from Evolve then took to the floor and expertly compered a stream of questions from the engaged audience.

Warren said: “What remarkable determination, perseverance and tenacity Mandy has demonstrated and all out of service for her country. It has been brilliant to listen to her stories and wisdom shared with such humility and humour this evening.”

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care CEO, Clare Gallie added, “What a fantastic evening.  Huge thanks to Mandy for so generously giving up her time to be with us in Dorset this evening and entertaining us with such an inspirational talk.

“The packed audience included such a wonderful mix of supporters from the local community including some of our hospice patients.

“We look forward to our next ‘An Audience with…’ event where Prof. Paul Gough, writer, painter, broadcaster and currently the Principle and Vice Chancellor of Arts University Bournemouth and Bansky expert will be speaking at The Fine Gallery, Durlston Castle on 19^th April, tickets are now on sale at www.lewis-manning.org.uk”

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