Air Cadet squadron appeals for volunteers
Berwick Branch Air Training Corps in July 1977
Berwick 1016 Air Cadets is appealing for volunteers to help keep the historic squadron going in the town.
Flight Lieutenant Susan Gillies, chair of the civilian committee which oversees cadet welfare and a former commanding officer of the squadron, has revealed that 1016 - which has been active in the town for more than seven decades - is in danger of closing.
“1016 Air Cadets desperately needs volunteers to help keep the squadron going,” she told the Advertiser.
Sponsored by the Royal Air Force, the cadet movement is about learning through practical experiences and making new friends.
Cadets undertake activities that offer challenge, excitement and adventure. Cadet life is about learning through practical experience, especially in the great outdoors.
The Berwick Squadron has been active in the town for more than 70 years.
“During this time there has been an enormous amount of cadets through the doors, all of whom have benefited from the many varied activities on offer,” said Flt Lt Gillies.
“The aim of the Air Cadets is to prepare young people for life in the adult world, whether it is a life in the forces or a civilian occupation. They’ll also find an element of adventure along the way - where else can our young people learn to fly and glide for free?”
Cadets also have the chance of a flying or gliding scholarship, and on visits to RAF stations they can experience flight simulations on a variety of aircraft.
All cadets have the opportunity to work towards nationally recognised BTEC qualifications in aviation, public service and musics. “This is only a fraction of what can be achieved in the Air Cadets, and it is about to be lost to our youngsters in Berwick forever,” Flt Lt Gillies warned. “Please don’t let this happen!”
The squadron is looking for people to volunteer a few hours a week to help.
People can help in a number of ways, from assisting in the office with administration and computer work, to helping cadets gain their Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Helping with lectures, organising the stores, taking cadets flying and gliding and helping with sporting activities are a few of the other ways volunteers can assist.
“If you have a few hours to spare please come along, because there is something for everyone,” Flt Lt Gillies said.
The Squadron parades every Monday and Wednesday evening at 7pm, in the Drill Hall.
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Weather for Berwick-Upon-Tweed
Monday 20 May 2013
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