Photo in an old family album. We've no idea who it might be, but thought if we could ascertain when it was likely taken and/or the unit it would possibly open a few other avenues to explore. Any info or ideas greatly appreciated.
I'd agree RFC "maternity" jacket so WW1 but not sure if they carried on for a little after the war RFC maternity jacket - RAF Museum Storyvault
The khaki Service Dress tunic adopted for the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) in 1912 had a wide cloth panel (a plastron) across the chest with concealed buttons, since it was thought that the usual button arrangement would be liable to catch on the bracing wires used on aircraft at that time. This tunic was popularly known as the "maternity jacket". The Naval Wing of the RFC, later the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS), wore naval uniform. On 1 April 1918, the RFC and RNAS merged to form the Royal Air Force (RAF). Initially, the uniforms of the former services continued in use, but on 1 May, an "interim" RAF uniform was approved which was basically the standard khaki Army Service Dress. A light blue version of Service Dress was approved for daily wear on 10 July, but this proved highly unpopular and many persisted with their old outfits. Finally, on 1 October 1919, the RAF Service Dress of a blue-grey colour, known as Air Force blue, was introduced.. British Military Uniform Manual. With no wings visible perhaps an air mechanic ? No medal ribbons WW1 pre 1918 (?) Kyle
Posted it up on GWF, and they've confirmed. 'Typical RFC uniform (Maternity Jacket/Tunic). He’s a Private (or perhaps Air Mechanic) as there’s no rank badge visible on arm, or shoulder, but you can just make out a shoulder title (RFC) at the very top of his sleeve.' Thanks all for your help