Laurie and Emma were both born in Leamington Spa, and met as teenagers at a youth group at St Mark’s Church in Leamington. They married there in 1995.
As a child, frequent trips to a local airport with his dad kindled Laurie’s love of aviation. Joining MAF was the fulfillment of a desire for Laurie to serve the Lord with the skills that he had been given.
MAF has a vital role in Uganda. Troubled areas in the north of the country mean that travelling by road is very hazardous, so the plane allows safe travel for workers in these areas. For others living in rural areas, MAF provides the reassurance of knowing that there is a fast way out in case of danger or in the event of a medical emergency.
Laurie’s main responsibility is flying the six-seater aircraft – the Cessna 206 and 210. Since arriving in 2003, he has flown over 1,500 hours in 6 different countries and has covered over 210,000 miles. His flying involves taking missionaries and charity workers to all regions of Uganda and southern Sudan. He also flies in medical emergencies when the need arises.
Laurie’s other role is an office based role. He has been able to continue his interest in computers by becoming the Uganda IT Manager for 25% of his time.
Laurie and Emma have two daughters, Bethany (born December 2001) and Naomi (October 2004). They have adjusted very well to life in Kampala and are always thinking of new ways to keep their parents busy.
Emma has been doing an increasing amount of study and work at Kampala Music School and also teaching in a local school. She gained an Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music diploma in violin teaching in 2004, and currently has nine violin students and one viola student (even though she doesn’t play the viola!).
Laurie and Emma's home church is St Mark’s, Leamington Spa.