Recorded interview with Senior Aircraftsman Leonard Payne, 11 June 2026

Leonard Payne was an RAF storeman during the 1950s, including service at RAF Topcliffe, RAF Kinloss, a detachment to Malta and at sea onboard His Majesty’s Air Force Vessel Bridlington.

Leonard Payne joined the RAF in 1953 and completed his initial training at RAF West Kirby. He remembers heavy snow during his passing-out parade and his subsequent posting to RAF Topcliffe. He was then posted to Her Majesty’s Air Force Vessel Bridlington and describes his experiences onboard, working in the stores. He was then posted to the stores at RAF Kinloss, with a detachment to Malta before leaving the RAF.