Meet the Staff Team

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Flight Lieutenant Geoff Elliott (RAFAC)

With 25 years experience in the Royal Air Force as a RAF Regiment Gunner and over 15 years experience as an adult volunteer with RAFAC. Flt Lt Elliott has  commanded 1461 squadron for over 5 years now, first arriving as a Warrant Officer taking over command from our former OC Flt Lt Henson before later gaining a commission.

An avid Leicester Tigers fan, Flight Lieutenant Elliott is keen on sports and fitness and is a qualified Personal trainer, a RFU level 1 Rugby coach and a level 2 Bowls coach highlighting his passion for training.

He has an AET level 3 teaching qualification and is a qualified First Aid trainer, First Aid being his second passion behind sports. In his role as Officer Commanding 1461sqn,  Flt Lt Elliott is keen to develop the cadets to achieve successful careers moving forward whether it be in the armed forces or life in general and equally for his staff team to progress themselves and deliver the best experience for the cadets.

Sergeant Pete Griffin (RAFAC)

With 9 years experience in the Royal Air Force as a Driver and 13 years as an adult volunteer with RAFAC. Sgt Griffin has been a member of staff on various squadrons within South and East Midlands Wing. Before transferring to 1461 in November 2023. 

Sgt Griffin is the squadron Adjutant and SNCO.  who is a key member of the Sqn staff team and is also responsible for teaching Radio and as part of his role of Sqn SNCO he is responsible for the NCO development and drill and discipline on the sqn. Outside of cadets Sgt Griffin's civillian occupation is a train driver and instructor to new train drivers.

CI Conor Lane

CI Conor Lane started his RAFAC career as a Cadet at 2070 (Glenfield) Squadron, he quickly rose through the ranks reaching the rank of Cadet Warrant Officer before aging out and becoming an Adult Staff member at the age of 20. 

CI Lane has a wealth of experience within the RAFAC, having held executive positions at multiple squadrons across the organisation. Currently, he serves as the Training Officer at 1461 Squadron, where he is responsible for planning and delivering a diverse array of Parade Night activities. He leads a dedicated Training Team, working collaboratively to provide a dynamic and engaging experience for cadets.

In his academic pursuits, CI Lane is nearing the completion of a Bachelor's Degree in Cyber Security, having studied in Leicester over the past few years. Additionally, he is an RLSS Qualified lifeguard, which enables him to oversee water-based activities within the Organisation. His qualifications extend to teaching a broad spectrum of subjects, including Leadership, First Aid, Radio, Cyber and Aviation, allowing for steady-progression through the RAFAC’s Progressive Training Syllabus.

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CI Tasmin Pritchard

 Beginning their journey with the Air Training Corps at 60 (Leek) Squadron in 2013, CI Pritchard later transferred to 2517 (Buxton) Squadron, where they achieved the rank of Sergeant before leaving for university. In 2022, they joined 1461 (Wigston & District) Squadron as a Civilian Instructor. 

Currently, CI Pritchard serves as the Deputy Training Officer and Media Officer, working alongside CI Lane's training team to design and deliver the programme for new recruits. They are qualified to lead and assess a variety of activities from the Progressive Training Syllabus, including Leadership, First Aid, and Cyber training, as well as mentoring and assessing cadets aspiring to become instructor cadets. 

Outside of their RAFAC role, CI Pritchard is passionate about crafting, especially aeromodelling—a popular activity among cadets. They also volunteer as a Brownie and Guide leader, reflecting their commitment to developing young people's skills and confidence.

CI Sam Jones

CI Sam Jones has proudly served as a Civilian Instructor with 1461 Squadron RAF Air Cadets (RAFAC) for over a year. In this role, she has gained valuable qualifications that enable her to teach and assess cadets across various subjects, enhancing their overall experience within the organisation.

Her journey in the cadet world began as a cadet with the Cheshire Army Cadet Force, where she became the Senior Cadet at 28th Penketh Detachment. Transitioning to the RAFAC as an adult volunteer was a natural step for her, fueled by her desire to give back and contribute positively to the development of young people in the RAFAC, utilising the knowledge she has gained in both organisations.

One of her key responsibilities is serving as the Squadron Duke of Edinburgh Award Leader. In this capacity, she provides essential support and practical teaching to cadets working toward their awards, guiding them through various sections and helping them achieve their goals.

In her professional life, she works within the NHS and is currently pursuing an MSci in Children’s and Mental Health Nursing with a focus on Leadership. This course of study enhances her role as a first aid instructor for cadets, where she finds it fulfilling to teach them essential lifesaving skills.

CI Marie Eyres

I first joined the Royal Air Foce Air Cadets in 2015 as a staff member with 1188 Coalville squadron where my daughter was a Cadet before transferring to 1461 in September 2024. I joined the organisation because of all of the opportunities that are on offer as a Cadet or Staff member. During my time as an adult volunteer I have had so many great experiences.

My role on the squadron is I am a Civillian Instructor and the squadron Stores officer.

Away from the squadron, I am a mum to four daughters, a Mama to 1 grandson and a carer for my husband who is an RAF Veteran. During the rugby season I am a Leicester Tigers Fan as well as enjoying music whether that from musical theatre or attending concerts.

CI Janis Hall

I joined as a civillian instructor in 2021 at 1188 Coalville Squadron before transfering to 1461 Wigston squadron in 2023. My role on the Squadron is Civillian Instructor and Stores officer.

I joined the organisation because my late husband was in the military and he said it was a great life. Having the opportunity to be part of RAFAC is very fulfilling.

I am retired so enjoy spending time with my Dog. I lived in Spain for 11 years where we ran a business and prior to moving abroad I was a manager in the retail sector for many years.

I have represented Northampton in Ten Pin Bowling.