Cannock Probus members hear about changing role of women in RAF
Squadron Leader Victoria Webb spoke about the history of women in the RAF and the opportunities available today
Members of Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club have been learning about the changing role of women in the Royal Air Force during a talk by Squadron Leader Victoria Webb.
She explained how opportunities for women in the RAF have developed since the service was formed on April 1, 1918, highlighting the achievements of pioneering women and the increasing range of roles now available.
A picture of the Red Arrows prompted discussion about Wing Commander Sasha Nash, who became the first female Officer Commanding of the RAF Red Arrows in January 2026.
Members also heard about Jackie Moggridge, one of the first women to gain RAF pilot's wings. During the Second World War she flew 1,438 aircraft and 82 different types before becoming Britain's first female commercial airline captain in 1957.
The talk also covered the historic appointment of the first woman to serve as commanding officer at RAF Cosford in 1968 and Flight Lieutenant Julie Ann Gibson, who became the RAF's first full-time female pilot in 1991.
Squadron Leader Webb explained that women can now apply for roles across the RAF, including engineering, technical trades, physical training, nursing and administration, with opportunities to progress through their careers.
She also shared her own career, having joined the RAF as a nurse after training at Walsall Manor Hospital. She served at Gosport before being posted to RAF Akrotiri and later commissioned at RAF Cranwell, moving into nurse management.
Her subsequent postings included RAF Wittering, Lyneham and Brize Norton, as well as service in Afghanistan and Iraq. One of her most challenging roles was as head ward nurse at Camp Bastion in Afghanistan.
Away from her military career, Squadron Leader Webb has also represented the RAF and UK in triathlon and now focuses on cycling.
Members thanked her for sharing her experiences and for her service.
The club's next speaker on Thursday, September 3, will be Sally Henkins, who will give a talk entitled 'Richard Osman and Me'.
Cannock and District Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Thursday of each month at Chase Golf Club at noon. The club welcomes retired or semi-retired professional and businesswomen and also organises outings and other activities.
Annual membership costs £16, with a two-course lunch costing £23. Further information is available from membership secretary Barbara on 07801 370935 or chairman Chris on 01543 879324.