At 88 years old, most people would be considering putting their feet up, perhaps enjoying a quiet retirement. But not for former RAF jet fighter pilot, Nigel, who is now living a new chapter in life as a foster carer. Far from slowing down, he’s making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children—and staying young in the process.
Nigel, who lives in Somerset, began fostering four years ago following the death of his wife. A former Air Cadet, Nigel’s love for flying began long before his RAF days, where he trained and eventually flew British fighter jets. But it was after the passing of his wife, with whom he had shared a 50-year marriage, that he decided to embark on a new adventure—fostering.
“I didn’t want to sit in front of the television for the rest of my life,” Nigel explains. “I wanted to do something worthwhile.”
It’s no secret that the world often tells older generations that their best days are behind them. But Nigel, one of the oldest single foster carers in the country, is proving that the spirit to contribute doesn’t fade with age.
A Life Well-Lived and Still Full of Purpose
Born in the 1930s, Nigel’s life has spanned some of the most pivotal moments in British history. From witnessing Winston Churchill’s leadership to experiencing the Second World War as a child, Nigel has lived through history. His early passion for flying led him to join the RAF during National Service—a decision that would shape the course of his life. He even went on to become a jet fighter pilot, an achievement that was not originally planned.
“I didn’t intend to go into the Air Force as a career,” he recalls, “but I ended up as a jet pilot after being told there were no opportunities. But I made it happen.”
After retiring from the RAF, Nigel’s life was marked by his dedication to his wife, family, and community. When she passed away, he found himself at a crossroads. The desire to be active and give back to others led him to take up fostering—a role that has proven fulfilling in unexpected ways.
Fostering at 88: ‘I Couldn’t Be Happier’
Nigel admits he was initially unsure about fostering, particularly taking in a teenager at his age. “I could understand if he’d said, ‘You’ve got to be joking,’” Nigel says, referring to his foster son. “But it worked out wonderfully. He’s a great kid.”
Despite his concerns, Nigel has found joy in the everyday moments of fostering. He and his foster son share a love for cars, and they’ve enjoyed activities like go-karting at the Haynes Motor Museum. One of Nigel’s proudest moments was attending the Glastonbury Festival with his foster son, where they managed to get to the front of the Pyramid Stage to see Coldplay perform.
“I’ve had a lot of great memories with him,” Nigel smiles, “and I’m thankful for the chance to be part of his life.”
Fostering has provided a new sense of purpose for Nigel, and he credits his success in the role to his availability. “I have 24 hours a day I can devote to this child,” he says. “Having grown-up children and grandchildren who are supportive has made it even better.”
A Call for More Fosters
Nigel’s commitment to fostering hasn’t gone unnoticed. Councillor Heather Shearer from Somerset Council praised his contribution, saying, “We absolutely need more people like Nigel to provide nurturing homes for local children, where they too can be inspired to achieve their dreams.”
While most foster carers must be at least 21 years old and have a spare room in their home, there’s no upper age limit. Nigel is a perfect example of how there is no “right” age to make a difference in the world.
Nigel’s journey as a foster carer is one of many inspiring stories in the fostering community, and it serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to start something new and make an impact.
