April Fools Club launch special commemorative print to raise money for Fund

On Wednesday 1 April, the April Fools Club launched a special edition print in commemoration of Operation Highmast, to raise money for the Fund.

The print titled ‘Wings over Mount Fuji’ features artwork by Nicolas Trudgian, of the first ever UK F 35B aircraft of 617 (Dambusters) Squadron landing on a Japanese aircraft carrier, with Mount Fuji in the background. Australian aircraft carriers and HMS Prince of Wales also feature in the print. 

Operation Highmast was an RAF led mission in 2025, seeing UK aircraft and personnel deployed worldwide alongside the Royal Navy and international allies. The mission focused on strengthening cooperation with partner nations, demonstrating the RAF’s global reach, and reinforcing the UK’s commitment to international security.

The event, held on the RAF’s 108th anniversary, was attended by 60 guests including Fund Ambassador and Paralympian, Stuart Robinson, who spoke about his career in the RAF Regiment and how he was supported by the Fund after an IED explosion in Afghanistan left him with life-changing injuries.

The Fund helped Stu and his family following the accident with housing adaptations, as well as a trike and a sports wheelchair – which he used representing Team GB in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics Wheelchair Rugby, and a new one for the Paris 2024 Paralympics.

Wing Commander Stew Campbell reflected on his career as a pilot with the Red Arrows and on the F 35B, and his time as Officer Commanding 617 (Dambusters) Squadron.

The discussion was led by Air Vice-Marshal Sean Bell, Sky News military analyst, who interviewed both speakers during the evening.

The April Fools Club is a membership organisation of serving and former RAF personnel, business leaders, and passionate supporters of the Royal Air Force, who take part in talks, events and shared interests, while also supporting charities connected to the RAF community.

The Club has raised thousands of pounds for the Fund over the years, through a series of events and challenges including a trek of the Falklands in 2024. The money raised has supported various initiatives including funding welfare breaks for RAF families.

Captain of the April Fools Club, Mark Axon, was joined by a number of Club members, including Roger Wood, who organised the event.

Hannah Bower, Philanthropy Manager at the Fund, said: “On behalf of the Fund, I’d like to offer our heartfelt thanks to our longstanding supporters at the April Fools Club and to all those who attended the special event. Their generosity and continued support help us make a real difference to the lives of the RAF Family.”

The event raised £4,000 on the night through ticket sales, print sales and donations to support the Fund. 

The special edition print is available for purchase here.