FORMER Kelly College pupil Simon Read is something of a high flyer with British Airways.

Simon, who is purser European operations, Gatwick was recently short-listed for the company's People Awards. Out of thousands of nominations world wide he was one of only 20 to be selected for the five categories.

Simon has a very close, long-standing working relationship with all British Airways' Eastern European stations. The staff at these stations help him to introduce himself directly to customers with special needs.

A spokesman said Simon, who can speak many languages, has created a 'very good rapport' with customers and had been nominated for his 'customer care skills'.

Simon's younger brother Rupert — known as 'Sparky' to his friends — has just completed a circumnavigation of South Georgia. Rupert is in the Army and the trip, aboard a 50ft boat, was part of a combined Services expedition.

Their parents are Tavistock artist Arthur Read and his wife, Jennie.

l Simon is pictured (left) with Rupert.