What marks the start of a holiday?

For Alan White, the holiday starts as soon as he crosses the threshold into his accommodation thanks to the RAF Disabled Holiday Trust.

Alan and his wife June have enjoyed several holidays with the Trust, now managed by the RAF Benevolent Fund, and they have loved every one of them.

Alan, 61, had served for five years in fire service in the RAF before an accident left him with a broken neck, ending his career. Now a full-time wheelchair user, getting away for a break is an important time for both Alan and his wife to relax and recuperate.

Alan explained: "Staying in RAF Disabled Holiday Trust accommodation takes away the stress of going away. You know everything has been done, you have all you need and you can arrive and start enjoying your holiday when you step through the door.

"We had a lovely time this summer in Tigh Mor in Scotland, it was the first time my wife had been there.

"Although it's a long drive it's well worth it for the views and the stunning scenery and an enjoyable cruise down the loch on a stream ship which is fully accessible. There was a fully stocked bar if you fancy a local whisky to try."

The Trust provides a checklist of extra equipment, should it be needed, which can then be ready for guests on arrival.

Alan added: "When we go away we know that all the facilities are there, everything you need. You don't have to worry about checking things before you get there, like is the bathroom going to be the right size?"

The couple's two children also enjoyed trips overseas to Portugal and France when they were younger.

Alan concluded: "The European places we stayed in were great! Always a big swimming pool, fact sheets with lots of activities they can get involved in."

The RAF Disabled Holiday Trust is open to all RAF families, serving or retired, who need an accessible holiday.

To find out more, please visit the RAF Disabled Holiday Trust website or contact Claire Nelson on rafdht@rafbf.org.uk.