An army veteran saw his dreams come true last week when he took to the skies in a helicopter.

The Guardian recently revealed how Fly Heli Wales had honoured Gilmour Childs’ dream of flying in the aircraft once again.

Gilmour, chairman of Ammanford British Legion, is the branch’s longest serving poppy seller, with 50 years under his belt.

This year’s appeal saw the 80-year-old stationed outside stores in Ammanford and his loveable character soon spread across social media and he became an overnight hit with shoppers.

One shopper, Ammanford artist Cara Gibson, had spoken with Gilmour of his dream of taking to the skies again. The last time he was in a helicopter was in the 1950s when he was serving in the South Wales Borderers.

The South Wales Guardian stepped in and asked Pembrokeshire-based Fly Heli Wales if they could help.

Owner Matt Corden was more than happy to make Gilmour’s wish come true. He said: “When I heard about Gilmour’s story it reminded me of my own grandfather, it pulled on the heartstrings and so I was honoured to be a part of Gilmour’s wish.”

Last Wednesday Gilmour, along with his wife Dezna took off from Haverfordwest airport taking in magnificent views of the Pembrokeshire coastline.

South Wales Guardian:

Gilmour said: “It was amazing. I would like to thank everyone involved in helping make this possible, especially Matt and our pilot Sven, who made us feel at ease. It was an experience I will never forget.”

Following the flight, Gilmour was given another surprise when Cara presented him with a print of one of paintings.

Cara said: “My poppy print seemed like the perfect gift for Gilmour, there are so many men like him around the country, and I am pleased he got his special wish.”

Gilmour added: “I would like to thank everyone at Fly Heli Wales and Cara for making me feel special. It has all been a wonderful experience.

"I won't be leaving it so long next time, I hope to take the grandchildren next year - they will love it."