BOSSES and business owners across the county visited RAF Brize Norton to see what Army, Navy and Royal Air Force reserves could offer their companies.

Guests from Oxfordshire's biggest firms, as well as smaller independent companies, were welcomed by station commander, group captain Simon Edwards, who spoke of the importance of everyone working together at the West Oxfordshire air base.

More than 160 employers were invited to the event, organised by the South East Reservist and Cadet Association on April 13, with Brize sectioning off part of its airfield for the day.

Squadron leader Andy Marshall, a reserve officer commanding 501 County of Gloucester Royal Auxiliary Squadron, said: "This was an opportunity to see what reservist employees might do in their secret life."

The leader, who is based at RAF Brize, said: "It aims to give employers an idea of what it is to be in the military and the advantages of employing reservists and ex-serving members of the armed forces."

Company leaders were given a tour of the base before being told exactly what the part timers do outside of their usual day job.

Reserve personnel are part of the Army, Royal Navy or RAF but not full-time members. They work at other, civilian jobs during the day before training in military skills in the evening.

RAF Brize Norton has five reserve squadrons that make up almost 20 per cent of the UK's reserve forces.

The medical reserve squadron has recently seen action in Sierra Leone and the RAF regiment squadron provides airfield security.

Following a number of presentations on the day, guests were treated to a display on the airfield, featuring the new A400M military transport aircraft.

Also on display were stands from army and navy reserves.

Jim Gilroy from The Frank Agency in Wantage said the day really showed him how people work in a civilian role while also being in the force.

The founder and director of the customer engagement marketing firm said: "It has really opened my eyes to the whole idea of serving your country and carrying out a corporate role at the same time."

Flying Officer Abi Bagshaw, deputy head of media and communications at RAF Brize Norton, added: "The day was a huge success, and although not all employers said they would or could employ a reservist, they were amazed at what employing reservists can offer both their business and the individual."