Red Arrows Macmillan Appeal Page

Aged 29, Flight Lieutenant Matt 'Jarvo' Jarvis, became one of the youngest pilots in the history of the Red Arrows after he joined the Team for the 2004 display season. After falling ill just before the summer display season started, Jarvo was diagnosed with cancer of the bile duct and told that his condition was terminal.

"The whole Team has been devastated by the news," said Squadron Leader Dicky Patounas, Red Arrows Team Leader. "Jarvo asked us to assist Macmillan Cancer Relief and we are determined to help in any way we can. By supporting Macmillan Cancer Relief we will be helping over a million other people in the UK who are currently living with cancer. "

As a result, the Red Arrows Appeal in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief was created.

Jarvo's lifelong ambition was to fly in a Spitfire. The Team got in touch with Carolyn Grace, the owner of ML407 (one of the few remaining airworthy two-seat Spitfires), who generously agreed to help Jarvo fulfil his dream. To make the experience even more special, we arranged for nine Red Arrows and two Harriers (the aircraft flown by Jarvo before he joined The Red Arrows) to escort the Spitfire during part of the flight. It was a wonderful day, and one which all involved will remember with happy memories.
The event formed the launch of The Red Arrows' Macmillan Appeal, and photos taken of the event were featured exclusively in the Daily Mail on 17th September 2004.

Jarvo died on Sunday 20th March 2005, almost a year after he first became ill. Jarvo's bravery, optimism and cheerfulness were an inspiration to everyone, both before and during his illness. We will all miss him so very much.

The Red Arrows work in support of Macmillan Cancer Relief will continue throughout 2005. Appeal total to date: £21,349.32.

[ Team Members | News | Contact Us | Manoeuvres | Macmillan Appeal ]
[ Display Dates | Downloads | Information | Return to the RAF Site ]
[ Fan's Photos | Virtual Press Office ]

[ Home ]

© Crown Copyright, 2005 and Copyright © 2005, DeltaWeb International Ltd