MP Ranil Jayawardena has started a petition designed to improve the standard of accommodation for service personnel at RAF Odiham.

Earlier this year, Mr Jaywardena asked a question of then Prime Minister David Cameron, raising the need to improve the quality of accommodation for airmen and airwomen based at RAF Odiham.

The PM replied by noting that money had been spent on the station but it was open to further investment.

“Let me pay tribute to the Chinook pilots and the crews who service those helicopters.

“We have an upgrade programme for the Chinooks, which will mean new helicopters replacing part of the existing fleet that is becoming worn out.

“I think I am right in saying that some £2million has been spent on RAF Odiham, but if more is needed we will make sure that that happens.”

However, the local MP has now started a petition, which has been distributed to all those living at RAF Odiham, and is calling on the Government to put the funding in place for the refurbishment of five remaining ‘Junior Rank’ barrack blocks.

The petitions states: “Sheweth that the accommodation provided at RAF Odiham for service personnel is outdated and not fit for purpose.

“This is particularly true of the Junior Rank Accommodation with 97 per cent of the 674 ranked as ‘Grade 4’, the worst score, and 95 bed spaces in the Junior Rank Accommodation have been condemned.

In the open letter published last week, Mt Jayawardena stated: “I have been working with Group Captain Robinson to identify the areas most in need at RAF Odiham.

“RAF Odiham is an exceptional station with a long and proud history. With the Chinooks scheduled to be in service until at least the 2050s, and probably the 2060s, I believe it is right that we take action now. To that end, I will continue to work with your Station Commander, and the Ministry of Defence. “But I need your help”, he concluded.

The petition has been distributed and he is calling for people around the area to sign it where they can and to get on board with the campaign and support local servicemen and women.