A school was delighted when one of its past pupils dropped in - by helicopter.

Sgt Kelly Fitzpatrick - a former student at Maidstone Grammar School for GIrls - is now a Crewman with 27 Squadron, based at RAF Odiham in Hampshire.

Her Chinook helicopter with its all-female crew landed on the playing fields of the school in Buckland Road on Tuesday (December 10) where they were met by head teacher Deborah Stanley and the girls from three Key Stage 3 classes.

Having experienced the backwash from the Chinook’s whirling blades, the girls were invited to take a closer look at the aircraft while Sgt Fitzpatrick and her crew spoke to several students interested in a career in the RAF.

The students were invited inside the Chinook and were surprised at just how large it was.

Miss Stanley said: “It was a delight to welcome Kelly back to MGGS - especially in such a memorable way.

“Her visit served as a powerful inspiration to our students, reminding us all that with determination and ambition, extraordinary things are possible.

“It not only showcased the diverse career opportunities available to women, but also highlighted the importance of resilience, teamwork, and pursuing one’s dreams.

“We are incredibly proud of Kelly.”

Sgt Kelly Fitzpatrick said: “It was an absolute privilege to be able to give something back to my old school.”

The Chinook is a support helicopter that can carry up to 55 troops and operate in a diverse range of environments, from the Arctic to the desert.

They are primarily used for delivering service personnel to their staging posts, resupplying them in the field and sometimes for battlefield casualty evacuation.

They have a crew of two pilots and two crewmen, can reach speeds of 184 mph and fly at altitudes up to 15,000ft.