Ayrton's story:

Ayrton attended Churston Ferrers Grammar School and joined 200 Squadron Torquay Air Cadets at 12 years old. At 17, he enlisted in the Royal Air Force, where he trained as a Regiment Gunner and became a Senior Aircraftman (SAC). Last year Ayrton joined a specialist military unit for ex overseas military personnel, attached to an overseas Army (please see attached link as country cannot be mentioned in this text https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyp8y0zm3mo ). He was extremely happy in this country, and made exceptional bonds and friends from around the world, all with the same mission. Ayrton’s call sign was ‘Musso’ and earlier this year he was made a team leader.

Heartbreakingly, Ayrton was killed in action on 9/5/26. He was due to receive his first bravery award for saving someone’s life just five days after this. Huge tributes have come in from Ayrton’s commander and his brothers (comrades) about his exceptional service and being an outstanding soldier, whilst remaining the clever, funny, prankster whilst off duty, always able to boost morale, and ‘he was 100% locked in and competent when it was time to go to work’. His mother and younger brother are finding comfort in all the messages from Ayrton's unit reminding them that he died a hero. Glory to the Fallen.

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I am Ayrton's Uncle, and am setting this up with the consent of Ayrton's mother, Natasha (my sister). Natasha has been inundated with people requesting to make a donation, and whilst hugely grateful of this, she has declined. However, on reflection, Natasha and Ayrton's 10 year old brother would like very much like to have a permanent place in Torbay, where family, friends and future generations can sit, reflect and remember Ayrton. This may potentially be a bench (which for a 25 year contract would be £8000), or a memorial spot and plaque.

Ayrton's little brother is heartbroken at the loss of his big brother who he idolised. He wishes to make a memorial and tribute in his bedroom, and has had some initial ideas, so the family would appreciate any support (and ideas) towards this.

If we raise more than expected, the monies will go towards further memorials to Ayrton, where he was based in the RAF at Lossiemouth, Scotland and where he was well known and successful at Kart racing in both the RAF and Scottish championship . And if anything left, to a charity, Scotty's Little Soldiers, who are supporting Ayrton's brother in bereavement.

Per Ardua. Glory to the Fallen. Stand down Soldier, duty done

Fly high my beautiful angel, love you forever, my heart explodes with pride for you. You are my Hero, love Mum xxxx