Chf Tech lan Harding BA Hons, LRSM, Dip Mus, Dip Euro Hum

Chief Technician Harding joined the Royal Air Force in 1983. After completion of basic training at RAF Swinderby he was posted to RAF Uxbridge for trade training as a percussionist. A temporary attachment to The RAF Central Band and The RAF Germany Band was followed by a permanent move to the RAF Regiment Band at RAF Catterick in 1985. A further move to the RAF College Band in 1994 and then a return to the RAF Regiment Band in 2001 completes his postings.

He has enjoyed tours of Hong Kong, Cyprus, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Canada, Poland, Saudi Arabia and various European venues as well as operational duties as a medical orderly during the first Gulf War of 1991. Ian is also a member of the RAF Music Services arrangers committee.

Ian lives locally and is a devoted husband and father of four children. During his off duty hours he is an able equestrian and avid reader of history. Last year he tried his hand at Jousting and is keen to develop this interest further.

He has held a long standing ambition to hold the post of Drum Major and now looks forward to the new challenges that the post demands.