New pilot surprises mum with thank you flyover

Josh will soon help deliver aid to some of the world's most isolated and inhospitable locations

A newly-qualified pilot is set to surprise his mother by flying her over their family home near the Kent coastline.

Folkestone-born Josh White is about to begin a career as one of the youngest bush pilots for Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), the world's largest humanitarian airline.

The 26-year-old will take his mother Paula up in a MAF Cessna 172 training aircraft on Monday to thank her for all the support she has shown him during the years.

"She gave up so much so I could have the best experiences in life," he said.

Taking off from Pent Farm airstrip near Hythe, Josh will perform a circuit taking in Dover's White Cliffs and other memorable places from his childhood, such as Sandgate Primary School and the Three Hills Sports Centre.

"Mum gifted me with a sense of adventure," he said.

"She was always helping people and I want to thank her for being incredibly fun, wise and encouraging me to where I am today."

Josh recalled the time Paula, a family liaison officer at St Martin's Primary School in Folkestone, took him to Kenya to visit an orphanage where she had volunteered as a teenager.

"Mum organised games consoles and gifts for the kids - it was incredible to see her love and faith in action," he said.

Josh piloted a plane with mum Paula as a passenger

Paula also helped St Martins' pupils raise £1,500 for MAF in 2024, which resulted in a special visit from MAF co-founder and RAF veteran Jack Hemmings shortly before he died at the age of 103.

Beginning a six-year overseas assignment with MAF next year, Josh will help deliver aid to some of the world's most isolated and inhospitable locations.

He said that, while the thought of leaving his home, family and friends is tough, "the desire to help those in need keeps me going".

"Mum probably thought I'd end up working behind a desk, but knowing she feels proud of me is a big motivator for what's ahead," he added.