Current Recruitment News

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A Taste of the Caribbean

On July 31 staff and cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn joined thousands of people to help celebrate Coventry’s West Indian community and culture at the city’s Caribbean Festival. The event, which has become a major feature of the city’s summer calendar, was celebrating its 20th birthday.

This is the third year 2438 Squadron have attended the festival and the squadron had a recruitment stand that could be found amongst the food stalls, children’s activities stalls, sports events stalls and performing arts and music stands.

As well as the recruitment stand the cadets also helped the organisers keep the park tidy by litter picking throughout the day, the cadets enjoyed this as they got to see what was happening, on the main stage.

Radio presenter Trish Adudu hosted the events on the stage, which this year focused on local talent. The names of acts that performed on the stage included Phase One steel drums band, Indian Rappers, moves from the Kombat Breakers and UB42.

The festival was also attended by Coventry’s Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Keiran Mulhall, who found time in his busy schedule to chat to the staff and cadets at the squadron about their involvement with the festival.

The Squadrons Senior NCO, Flight Sergeant Alan Tillman, said: “The Caribbean Festival provided an excellent platform from which to promote the Squadron and the ATC in general. The cadets did an excellent job keeping the grounds clear of litter and maintaining a presence within the park. An excellent effort was given by all involved.”

The festival first began in 1991 as a small gathering of about 200 friends. It now sees more than 20,000 people flocking to the War memorial park to enjoy the sights and sounds of the festival.
 

Image: Staff and cadet talking to the Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr Kieran Mulhall, Adult Flight Sergeant Alan Tillman, Cdt Cpl Jordan Chapman

by: CI Roni Tillman Sqn MCO 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

9 Aug 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Recruiting Success

Cadets and staff from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn have recently manned a recruitment stand in Coventry City Centre’s, Lower Precinct shopping centre.

The cadets were promoting the Squadron's upcoming recruitment intake. They were handing out leaflets specially designed to promote the activities of 2438 Squadron.

Mentioned in the Coventry Telegraph in the week leading up to the day the recruitment stand led to a large amount of interest from young people shopping in the town centre and a lot of recruitment leaflets for the Squadron being handed out to prospective cadets.

Flight Sergeant Alan Tillman (ATC) of 2438 Squadron said: "The recruitment stand has been a huge success and was helped with the advertising in the local press. This has meant that many of the people coming to the stand already had knowledge of it and were genuinely interested in the Air Training Corps."
 

Image: Cdt Andrew Reed mans the stand

by: CI Roni Tillman Sqn MCO 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

9 Aug 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Festival Heights

The Bedford River Festival is one of the largest free festivals in the country and attracts on average 300,000 people. Clearly this was an opportunity too good to miss for 134 (Bedford) Sqn who rose to new heights to present the Air Cadet Organisation to the festival goers.

The Festival, held on the banks of the River Ouse, opened at 11am on Saturday 17th July and closed at 9pm on Sunday 18th July 2010.

Towering above an already impressive recruiting stand, Bedford Squadron set up the regional air cadet climbing wall to attract interest and promote the spirit of adventure.

From the start, the climbing wall located in the centre of a ‘light blue’ village containing stands from the RAF Careers, RAF Auxiliary Police Squadron, RAF Motivational Outreach Team and Tornado Maintenance School from RAF Marham, was a massive success attracting large numbers of young people and their parents.

All weekend there was a constant flow of potential recruits to the climbing wall and engaging with Squadron staff and cadets to learn more about the organisation and the great things that the Squadron and the Air Cadet Organisation have to offer.

For the cadets who staffed the event, it was a weekend of hard work as they worked in teams fitting helmets and harnesses to climbers and belaying them as they scaled the face of the climbing wall. This was a task that they took in their stride and a clear and visible demonstration to the public of cadets working in a team, exercising discipline, demonstrating responsibility for their actions and a maturity beyond their years.

At the conclusion of a hugely successful weekend and one of the highest profile operations undertaken by the unit in recent years the squadron had amassed a potential 26 new recruits.

Warrant Officer Paul Taylor who co-ordinated the weekend said: “To say that I am impressed with what we have achieved this weekend is an understatement indeed. The cadets and staff were superb and worked in the finest traditions of the squadron to promote the air cadets to the public and demonstrate what a great organisation it is. We have received many favourable comments and even better gained many new recruits.”

by: CI Chris Wiggins Sqn MCO 134 (Bedford) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

30 Jul 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Back to School as Higham Lane Celebrates 70 years

On Saturday 17th July, Nuneaton’s Higham Lane School flung open its gates for a Fun Day to celebrate their 70th Anniversary year and for two of the 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn staff it was like going back to School all over again.

During the day the cadets and staff from Nuneaton Squadron manned the Air Cadet display stand, which attracted a constant flow of potential recruits, parents and School staff, many of whom were extremely interested in the opportunity for cadets to gain additional qualifications via the Cadet Vocational Qualifications Organisation (CVQO).

For two of the Squadron’s Officers, Flt Lt Ian Crewe and Flt Lt Paul Hincks, the day was a bit of a journey back in time to the days when they themselves attended Higham Lane School. Flt Lt Paul Hincks said: “It’s been more years than I care to remember since I last came through those gates but apart from one additional building the place hasn’t changed a bit. I can truly say that my trip back to my old school has brought back many memories of my time at Higham Lane, thankfully the schools 70 year history display didn’t have any embarrassing photographs of Ian or myself during our time at the school.

“It’s been an extremely successful day for public relations and recruiting, we’ve had so many people showing an interest in joining the Squadron. Our yellow goody bags have been very popular and there can’t be many of the Higham Lane pupils who haven’t got one, they’re all over the place, you can’t miss the things.”

Images: Potential Recruits with their yellow Air Cadet goody bags

by: Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

26 Jul 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Acocks Green Community Carnival 2010

This years sizzling heat hasn’t slowed down 489 Sqn (Acocks Green & Olton) Sqn who have been hard at work promoting the Air Cadet Organisation at the Acocks Green carnival.

The carnival was a complete success with hundreds of visitors and dignitaries from society. The event allowed 489 sqn to showcase the great opportunities it has to offer to the youth community of Acocks Green.

Passing visitors to the stand had the unique opportunity to try flying helmets on, and blend into the fields with a little Camo Cream for good measure. As well as some practical experiences Visitors were able to enter a Balloon Race Competition, sponsored by Pixi – Foto. Funds were donated to the squadrons welfare Fund.

Officer Commanding 489 (Acocks Green & Olton) Sqn Fg Off Jo Coles, said: "I’m extremely pleased to portray the organisation in our local society; we have had plenty of inquiries from teenagers and adults alike and look forward to the 489 Squadrons prosperous future."

by: Cpl Simon Watson RAF Service Helper & Sqn MCO 489 (Acocks Green & Olton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

9 Jul 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

2028 Recruit at Southam Carnival

On Bank Holiday Monday six members of Staff and 22 cadets from 2028 (Southam) Sqn took the opportunity to take part in the Annual Southam Town Carnival.

Using the Wing marquee and other equipment they put up a recruiting stand' The day was warm, if cloudy but at least it stayed dry. Consequently a considerable number of local people turned out for the Carnival which is organised every year by the local Branch of the Lions.

The Adjutant, CI Conran-Brown, Sgt (ATC) Wildman, the Training Officer, WO Storer-Rogers, Flt Lt Woan, CI Halford and the CO, Flt Lt Daryll Moreton, set up and prepared the recruiting tent on the nearby recreation ground, together with many representatives of other local organisations from Southam.

The cadets took it in turns to work on the recruiting stand and walk around the site with hand outs and other literature about the ATC.

During the afternoon, everyone got into the spirit of the day and a number of the cadets could not resist the temptation to have a go at the climbing wall which was directly opposite to the ATC Marquee. There was also a funfair and various activities going on throughout the day to keep everyone amused.

The day was a thorough success in that it presented another opportunity to remind the people of Southam, young and old, that their local ATC Squadron was alive and well and looking for new recruits. In fact this year, it was great to tell them that 2028 Squadron was not only flourishing, but we had our best year ever in 2009 with numbers consistently on the up!

The Mayor of the Town visited the stand and promised to do all she could to continue to advertise the Squadron. She took the opportunity to say how much she enjoyed the report presented by the CO at the recent Town Council Annual General Meeting and expressed her admiration for all the Air Cadets do in the Town.

Flt Lt Moreton said after the event: "It was a really good day today with so many cadets present and willing to show off what the Air Cadets can offer young people and why they joined. We achieved our objective of being seen and taking the opportunity of inviting the youngsters of the Town to come along and see us and see more of what the ATC has to offer. It was also nice to hear the Mayor say how much the Town Council admire what we do.”

Images: The recruiting marquee set up ready for the Carnival; 2. Flt Lt Moreton with the Mayor

by: Flt Lt Daryll Moreton RAF VR(T) OC 2028 (Southam) Sqn - W&B Wg

4 Jun 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Recruitment Fun In The Sun
 

Cadets and staff from 220 (St Albans) Sqn soaked up the sun and spread the ATC word to member of the public, at a local fete last Sunday.

The unit’s marketing stand, complete with branded 'Air Cadets' marquee, took pride of place at the Park Street Fete, just outside St Albans. The event has taken place every two years for the past decade and 220 Squadron have been a part of it from the start.

As well as display boards and promotional literature, the stand featured a Duke of Edinburgh’s expedition campsite set-up, complete with a tent, stove, rucksack, maps and other equipment, and a green “Regiment Flight” display where children could try on uniform and be shown how to camouflage themselves.

The event enabled the cadets to sell the ATC message to hundreds of members of the public, and a number of potential new recruits signed up for more information about the squadron. While those of the correct age to join were given the information they need to get involved straight away, those currently too young were asked to provide contact details so that they can be contacted and invited to attend a parade night once they have reached the age of 13.

A number of cadets attended, meaning that there was time to enjoy the other attractions the fete had to offer when not manning the recruitment stand.

St Albans Squadron Training Officer, Plt Off Simon Challis, was among the unit’s staff who attended the event. He said: “It was a brilliant sunny day which really drew out the crowds, and with the eye-catching yellow and blue marquee dominating the field, we really were the centre of attention.

“We had a steady flow of visitors to our display and I spoke to many members of the public – from young children to elderly veterans and everything in between – about our squadron and the Air Training Corps in general.”

Cdt Sgt James Childs added: “When the cadets weren’t manning the recruitment stand, they were out and about, roaming around the fete in uniform, handing out leaflets and talking to the public. It was a great way of spreading the word of what we’re all about.”

Images: 1. Plt Off Simon Challis talks to a potential new recruit and his mother; 2. Cdt FS Dean Frame and Cdt Cpl Mohammed Uddin play cops and robbers at the nearby Hertfordshire Constabulary stand.

by: Fg Off Ben Wilkinson RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 220 (St Albans) Sqn - Herts & Bucks Wg

2 Jun 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

1239 Revel in Last-Minute Recruiting Challenge

With just a few days’ notice, cadets from 1239 (Broxbourne and Hoddesdon) Sqn jumped at the opportunity to spend the weekend of the 15th and 16th May at Imperial War Museum Duxford staffing the Herts and Bucks Wing recruitment marquee.

IWM Duxford celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain with a spectacular display by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and followed it nicely with their Spring Air Show.

Despite the short notice, cadets devised a series of activities to entice people to the Air Cadets marquee where they thoroughly enjoyed showcasing the ATC and boasting to passers-by, about their many achievements. They included a basic leadership exercise, dressing up in uniform and having their faces painted with cam paint, which proved very popular with all ages!

Officer Commanding 1239 (Broxbourne and Hoddesdon) Sqn, Flt Lt Claire Bull said: “The weekend was fantastic; our cadets were very proactive in bringing people onto our stand and asking them to get involved. It was rather hard to believe that some of them were only 13 year old cadets because they were on their feet for 10 hours each day and still so professional!”

Cdt Calum Hedley added: “It was a shame the Typhoon display was cancelled, but the Black Cats were amazing! It was really good meeting people and telling them about all the different activities we do at cadets.”

With thanks to all the cadets that took part: Cdts Berry, S Gray, C Gray, Franklin, Billing, Wingate, Hedley, Barry, Montgomery,  Blewett,  Goulding, all from 1239 squadron, and Cdt Sgt Le Baigue of 2203 (Hatfield and deHavilland) Sqn.

Image: 1. The Recruiting Team; 2.Cdt Casey Gray working through his queue of Cubs, Badgers, Scouts, Beavers, Brownies and Guides all keen to be camouflaged

by: Flt Lt Claire Bull RAF VR(T) OC 1239 (Broxbourne and Hoddesdon) Sqn - Herts & Bucks Wg

29 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Get-Involved!

On Saturday 24th April, cadets from 22 (Sandy) Sqn attended the Sandy 'Get-Involved' Fair, recruiting alongside 38 other local voluntary organisations.

The event, organised by Sandy Town Council, was aimed at providing voluntary organisation, such as the Air Cadets, a chance to talk to the public about the activities they undertake and to recruit members of the public.

The cadets worked hard throughout the day manning the squadron recruiting stand and talking to the public about the activities they have participated in with the air cadet organisation.

Cdt Ben Kilby said: “I've had a fun day, and got to meet many local people. The best bit was giving out the Air Cadet Stickers, as I got to talk to a lot of people about what we do at cadets.”

Thanks go to Mayor of Sandy, Cllr Geoffrey White and Sandy Town Council for organising the event and for the support they have given the squadron.

by: CI Jeffrey Henshaw Sqn MCO 22 (Sandy) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
 

25 Apr 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Air Cadets on Recruiting Drive

Cadets from 2461 (Sawston), 2524 (Oakington) and 2523 (Linton) Squadrons from Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Eastern Sector spent a Saturday recently at the Grafton Shopping Centre in Cambridge on a recruitment drive.

The cadets spoke to the young people who showed an interest in the Air Cadets about the type of activities they do such as Flying, Gliding, the Duke of Edinburgh Award and BTEC Awards just to name a few. There was also a Flight Simulator that they could use, as well as a display of some of the equipment they use whilst on some of the camps they attend.

Warrant Officer Tim Barker, NCO Commanding 2461 (Sawston) Sqn, said: “My thanks goes out to the cadets and staff who helped with this recruiting effort for the sector and for organising and running this first in what I hope will be a regular public recruiting event. My thanks also go to the Grafton Shopping Centre for this opportunity to bring the cadets into the public eye.”

by: Mrs Sheena Pugh Sqn MCO 2461 (Sawston) Sqn - Beds & Cams Wg
 

31 Mar 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Corps what a Store!

On Saturday 6th February the recently revamped Vancouver Quarter of King’s Lynn’s shopping centre saw the official opening of the 42F (King’s Lynn) Sqn shop. The occasion was marked with blue and yellow ribbons being cut by the Squadron’s Honorary Secretary, Julie Lister.

Having seen the vacant shop unit in the town’s Broad Street pedestrianised shopping centre, the Squadron was keen to obtain permission to use its window space as an information and recruiting platform for the Corps. This prime location was seen as a fantastic chance to advertise the activities and opportunities available to any prospective cadets.

When approached, the manager of the Vancouver Quarter, Mr. Brad Curcillo, was extremely accommodating and not only agreed to allow the use of the window but offered the use of the whole vacant unit until such time as it was required.

Squadron Commander, Flt Lt Pauline Petch said: “Mr Curcillo and the Vancouver Centre Partnership have been very supportive of our objectives and have really pulled out all the stops to help us progress our ideas. They have produced some really stunning window boards in the Air Cadet colours from material we gave them. Brad and the Partnership are dedicated to promoting the opportunities available to the youth of King’s Lynn and already the Sea Cadets have the use of a window space as well."

The shop will be open most Saturdays when uniformed staff, cadets and civilian committee members will be on hand to inform visitors of the activities available to any young person joining the Corps. “We saw this as a great opportunity to stamp the ‘light blue footprint’ on the area – to showcase the opportunities available to any young person who joins the ATC, with the added bonus of being able to raise funds for the Squadron,” said Flt Lt Petch.

Honorary Secretary Julie, a primary school teacher in the area for over 30 years, said: “I was so pleased to be involved with this project. Over the years I have seen what the Air Cadets has done for so many of the teenagers that I had taught when they were younger. They get the opportunities to do so many activities that other children do not. I have watched those that join gain so much from their membership of the Air Cadets.”
 

by: Mike Lister Sqn MCO 42F (King’s Lynn) Sqn Norfolk & Suffolk Wg
 

6 Feb 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

City Recruitment

Cadets and staff from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn have recently manned a recruitment stand in Coventry City Centres Lower Precinct shopping Centre. The cadets were promoting the Squadron's upcoming recruitment intake and open evening. They were handing out leaflets specially designed to promote the activities of 2438 Squadron.

The event was promoted on the local Mercia FM and touch FM radio stations. These broadcasts were also backed up by two local press releases, and mentions on Mercia FM and Touch Radio in the week prior to the event and coverage on 6 local websites.

This effort led to a large showing of interest from young people shopping in the town centre and led to over 150 recruitment leaflets for 2438 Squadron being handed out to prospective cadets.

Flight Sergeant (ATC) Alan Tillman of 2438 Squadron said: “The recruitment stand has been a huge success, backed up with the advertising in the local press, radio and Internet. This has meant that many of the people coming to the stand already had knowledge of it and were genuinely interested in the Air Training Corps”

Image: Cdts Mishika De Silva, Jessica Owen and Callum Holland

by: CI Roni Tillman Sqn MCO 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

19 Jan 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Boughton Recruit and Awareness

The autumn fete in the picturesque west Norfolk village of Boughton gave 864 (Watton) Sqn’s PR and recruitment team one last outing in 2009.

The 864 team were at Boughton at the invitation of Wg Cdr Al Roberts from MOD Force Development, a former pilot on II (AC) Squadron, Wg Cdr Roberts has maintained an interest in Watton squadron and was keen that the squadron joined him at the fete.

Wg Cdr Roberts brought with him a display of flying equipment that proved very popular with the public and together with 864-service instructor, Cpl Macfarlane from RAF Marham; they answered many questions from the public on the work of the Royal Air Force. Meanwhile at the other end of the display, the many visitors kept the squadron staff and cadets busy informing them of the myriad of opportunities available to them in the Air Training Corps.

Flt Lt Michael Edney OC 864 (Watton) Sqn said: “Another good day out raising awareness of the amazing opportunities available through the ATC and the RAF. We ran out of all of our giveaways and also raised money for the RAFA Wings appeal.”

by: Flt Lt Michael Edney RAF VR(T) OC 864 (Watton) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

2 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Recruiting at Hollingwood

On a recent sunny Saturday, Cdt Cpl Josh Milner and Cdt Katie Walker of 1082 (Brimington & District) Sqn, manned a recruitment tent during the inaugural Hollingwood Fair in Chesterfield

The Fair was arranged by the local Residents Association and all who participated hope the event will be a regular occurrence.

Whilst manning the tent, other cadets participated in a tug of war competition finding out that it is not as easy as it looks.
 

Image: 1. Cdt Cpl Josh Milner and Cdt Katie Walker man the recruiting stand; 2. The Tug of war Competition

by Flt Lt John Fallon RAF VR(T) OC 1082 (Brimington & District) Sqn - Trent Wg

27 Sep 2009                                                                                                Back to top of page

Cadets Assist at RAF Trade Fair

Cadets and staff from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn recently participated in a RAF Trade Fair held in Queensgate Shopping Centre, Peterborough.

This proved to be a good source for potential recruits to the Air Cadet Organisation, and of great assistance to the Royal Air Force.

Image: WO Gary Akehurst and cadets from 115 Sqn

by Mr Dave Ellis – Civilian Committee Chairman 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

27 Sep 2009                                                                                                Back to top of page

Southam Hold ‘Recruiting and Open Day

On Sunday the 20th September, 21 cadets, 3 uniformed staff and two CIs from 2028 (Southam) Sqn held an ‘Open’ and ‘Recruiting’ Day at their Squadron Headquarters.

The building and parade square were ‘themed’ for the day to demonstrate the wide variety of activities and community involvement that the Air Cadets offers to young people. Each classroom and the main hall were laid out with both visual and electronic demonstrations, all prepared and arranged by the cadets themselves.

The parade square had a radio and communications tent showing the various pieces of radio equipment now owned by 2028 Squadron.

Every possible opportunity to announce the day had been used by the cadets and staff including local advertising using posters made by the cadets and use of community web sites. The cadets themselves had also given ‘talks’ at assemblies in their own Schools during the months leading up to the open day.

At various times during the day a drill demonstration was given by the cadets and talks by members of staff. A short recruiting video presentation made by one of the senior cadets was also shown at regular intervals.

No one was really sure how the day would go but a number of potential ‘recruits’ visited the Squadron throughout the day with their friends and family, promising to return on a Parade night to get an active flavour of what the Squadron and the Air Training Corps could offer. A number of friends and families of the cadets also came down to catch an ‘inside’ view of the Squadron, bearing in mind most of them just drop off and pick up the cadets from the car-park each parade evening.

The Squadron Commander, Flt Lt Daryll Moreton remarked: "The whole idea from start to finish has been put together by the cadets themselves. They have organised the displays, produced the hand outs, prepared the video presentation and set up the building, everything in fact and it is to their credit that the day was such a success. I said it at the end of the recent 24 hour drill and I will say it again, we are a whole team here at 2028, cadets staff and committee."
 

by: Flt Lt Daryll Moreton RAF VR(T) OC 2028 (Southam) Sqn - W&B Wg

26 Sep 2009                                                                                                                                                                                      Back to top of page

Cadets are Star Attraction at County Show

Thursday 27th August saw the yearly Bucks County Show at Weedon Park just outside of Aylesbury. This is the main public event of the year for Buckinghamshire with some 20,000 visitors during the course of the show day.

The hard work for the cadets and staff alike commenced with a half past six start at 1365 (Aylesbury) Sqn and then a short drive to the show ground. The cadets were then split into working parties and assisted with erecting of the arena jumps under the ever-careful eye of the course builder. Other duties include placing out chairs and benches and the erecting of the Wing marquee and equipment, supported by Flt Lt Andy Turner.

The show is predominantly a livestock event with a large number of entries in the cattle and sheep categories. There was also five horse jumping and showing arenas, the show being a qualifying event for the International Horse of the Year Show.

The Wing marquee and display stands were again a major attraction. All the usual recruiting material was on display, plus two Squadron photographic boards, NBC respirators from RAF Halton, and some flying suits and flying helmets. Again the Hunter aircraft cockpit in its bright blue livery was evident having been delivered from 2366 (Bletchley Park) Sqn courtesy of Flt Lt Dave Smith the night before.

The show this year was a truly joint venture with 10 cadets from 1365 (Aylesbury) Sqn under the command Flt Lt George Fitch and WO Dave Short, 6 cadets from 2532 (Milton Keynes) Sqn under the watchful eye of Padre Howard March who was providing first aid cover with St John Ambulance and three cadets together with CI Adam Williams from 2409 (Halton) Sqn. Cadet numbers were a bit lower than in normal years due to a clash with the publishing of the secondary school year 11 examination results.

Those who attended had an excellent opportunity to have a look around the event during the breaks in the arena shows and the weather was very pleasant. The marquee had its fair share of visitors including the Councillors Penni Thorne and Ray Ghent. The marquee was also ideally situated having been placed next to the Army Benevolent Fund marquee and a flight simulator, which pulled in a large number of youngsters.

Cadets were also supplied to the RAF recruiting display, which was in the shape of a Nimrod aircraft and the motivational outreach team. Those who worked at the stand had a good opportunity to speak to a number of prospective cadets and a large amount of publicity material and stickers were handed out. The day seemed to pass very quickly as it was an extremely busy event. All the equipment was finally packed away just after 7:30 pm.

Sqn Ldr Jeremy Davies, Herts and Bucks WSO, said: “The show is a very successful event for the Wing with many members of the public taking a keen interest in the Corps and with some local prominent dignitaries at the event it is good that the Corps gets its due recognition and some well deserved publicity.

“I would like to thank the cadets and staff who attended this year’s show and for their hard work throughout what was a very long day. This is an important event in our calendar and is a prominent stage on which to represent and show off the Air Cadet Organisation. I am hopeful that we will have recruited a number of new junior cadets as a direct result of the show and I look forward to a bigger cadet involvement at next year’s event.”

Images: 1. Flt Lt Fitch chats to members of the public; 2. Cadets control the crowds during a vintage tractor display

by: Sqn Ldr Jeremy Davies RAF VR(T) WSO Herts & Bucks Wg
 

30 Aug 2009                                                                                                                                                                                   Back to top of page

Cadets help Lions Benefit from Donkey Derby

A group of cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn, braved Coventry’s awful weather to help the Coventry Leofric Lions raise funds for charity in their annual donkey derby.

Together with staff, they braved heavy downpours to litter pick and sell race card programmes to help raise money for the Lions nominated charities.

The cadets also had their own fundraising stall where they held a tombola in a bid to raise money to buy a new football kit for the squadron team though the day was a very long one they did generate interest in not only the tombola but also with new recruits.

Even though the rain kept the crowds away everyone who came along enjoyed themselves and the donkey derby was great fun for those who took part.

Flt Lt Nathan Adams, Officer Commanding 2438 Squadron, said: “Once again 2438 Squadron have shown their commitment to supporting local events, enabling the cadets to help put something back into the community as well as putting local youth in a positive light.”
 

Image: Cdt Woon and Cdt FS Brandon Wood on the tombola stall
 

by Flt Lt Nathan Adams RAF VR(T) OC 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

11 Aug 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Soar the Air Waves

 
Cadets and staff from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn have hit the local airwaves once again at BBC Coventry & Warwickshire Radio to promote their squadron and to tell the citizens of Coventry about the air cadets and their squadron.

Cdt FS Alan Tillman and CWO James Parker were invited on to the Mark Powlett show on July 31st to talk and discuss what life is like as a cadet and a member of staff in the Corps and at 2438 Squadron.

As James is coming to the end of his time in the Corps it was the perfect opportunity for him tell the citizens of Coventry about his journey and how anyone aged between 13-17 can get involved. The Mark Powlett show has around 89,000 listeners and his programme looks at what makes the people and places of Coventry and Warwickshire tick.

After a long wait whilst watching Mark presenting the show they were taken into the studio for a 15 minute interview and they even got to dedicate a song to the cadets and the people of Coventry their choice was 'Build me up buttercup' by The Foundations.

Cdt FS Alan Tillman said: “This was another excellent opportunity to promote 2438 Squadron and the Corps in a very different yet exciting way. It allowed both James and I to talk to a wider audience and to hopefully tell people about the many activities that the Air Training Corps has to offer."

by Flt Lt Nathan Adams RAF VR(T) OC 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

11 Aug 2009                                                                                                                                                                                      Back to top of page

Part of the Community at Chiswell Green

 
Cadets from 220 (St Albans) Sqn put themselves at the heart of their community, by running a recruitment stand at a local village fete.

A group of cadets, along with two staff, borrowed the Wing Marquee to set up the eye-catching display at the event in Chiswell Green, just outside St Albans.

As well as display boards, leaflets and magazines, a camp site scene was set up with a camping tent, stove, maps and other adventure training equipment.

Although many other local groups were represented at the event, the Air Training Corps was the only youth group to attend, and the stand attracted a great deal of attention across the age range.

Many leaflets and promotional items were distributed and a number of potential new recruits were given details about the squadron.

Cdt Cpl Stephanie Law, who spent much of the day handing out leaflets and stickers to members of the public, said: "People were very interested in finding out about the ATC. A lot of people said they had not previously been aware of us, so it was definitely good to get out in the community."

Cdt Mohammed Uddin added: "A lot of the kids who came over to see the stand were too young to join, but we made sure they had all the details so they can come along once they reach the right age."

Image: Cadets from St Albans Squadron in front of their recruitment stand.

by; Off Cdt Simon Challis 220 (St Albans) Sqn - Herts & Bucks Wg
 

9 Aug 2009                                                                                                                                                                                     Back to top of page

Recruiting at Sheldon Country Fayre
 

2030 (Elmdon & Yardley) Sqn made use of the ACO recruitment marquee at Sheldon Country Fayre. Up to 20,000 people visit the Fayre yearly, so 2030 squadron saw it as a prime opportunity to recruit within the local community.

Although the weather was bleak the cadets made a day of it with potentially several new recruits to join the ACO. The squadron was also there to lend a helping hand to the Royal Air Force Association, who took shelter with their tombola stand under the marquee.

RAFA also had an extremely good day raising money for the annual Wings Appeal.

Image:  Cdt Cpl Martin talks to a parent of a potential new cadet

by: Sgt (ATC) Mark Kenny Sqn MCO 2030 (Elmdon & Yardley) Sqn - W&B Wg

27 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Exposed by Local School Journalists

 
A Sandiacre School enlisted the help of local Air Cadets to add 'something different' to their end of term Media Day.

Friesland School of Sandiacre held a day in which students were to produce press articles and taped interviews of various activities around the school. Cadets and staff of 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn, were invited to assist.

The cadets took along their recruiting marquee, a glider cockpit and item of interest that the cadets use on expeditions or in training.

Several of the staff and cadets were interviewed on many and varied, cadet related subjects. They also found themselves filmed and photographed. However, the students showed significant interest in the work of the Air Cadet Organization and it is to be hoped that some of them may join the squadron.

Officer Commanding the squadron, Flt Lt Allan Munns said: “We often try to get into schools to recruit, this was an ideal situation where we were able to give the school something in return for the recruiting opportunity. A good day all round.”

by Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) OC 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn - South & East Midlands Wg
 

26 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                       Back to top of page

Recruiting at Marham Families Day

Staff and Cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn were once again at a very sunny RAF Marham for their annual Families' Day. The weather was perfect and there was an excellent afternoon of flying and static displays on offer for all the visitors.

The focus this year for the Watton cadets and staff was to raise awareness and recruit staff and cadets for the recently opened 864 (Marham) Detached Flight.

Flt Lt Tony Hall the recently appointed Detached Flight commander said: “An excellent afternoon we have recruited more staff and cadets for the Marham DF and built on the success of our opening night last Monday.”

The Watton cadets were conveniently located on the main walkway through to the display area from the Waterfront. The recruiting, awareness and fund raising stand was very busy all day both raising awareness of the Squadron and the Air Cadets in general. When they were not busy recruiting they were raising funds for the Royal Air Forces Association ‘Wings Appeal’ and their own Squadron funds.

The day was a huge success with the large crowds of invited guests, service personnel and their families treated to an excellent flying display, which included the Red Arrows with their full 2009-display programme, The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and some early jets including Venom, Meteor and Hawker Hunter. The real crowd pleaser though was the impressive Avro Vulcan Bomber. There was also an extensive array of static aircraft displays and trade stands for everyone to enjoy.

The Commanding Officer of Watton Sqn, Flt Lt Michael Edney, said: "It was a fantastic day; I think all the cadets did a great job of raising the profile of our Squadron and our new Detached Flight and we all had a terrific day out as well. We also managed to raise a considerable sum of money but more importantly we recruited more cadets and staff.”
 

Images: by CI Daniel Fishlock

by Flt Lt Michael Edney RAF VR(T) OC 864 (Watton) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

24 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Life’s a Beach for 222 Squadron

The prospect of rain did not stop 222 (Broadlands) Sqn from celebrating the summer at a recent beach barbecue. The annual event held at Sea Palling on the Norfolk coast, is one of the most popular social events on the squadron’s busy summer calendar, attracting over 60 cadets, staff, committee, parents and family.
 

This particular year, it looked liked the weathermen might have got it right, with dark clouds blowing in at regular intervals from the west. But the day was blessed, with little more than a pattering of rain, that wasn’t even enough to stop play of the cadets versus staff volleyball competition!

The squadron teased other beach-goers with the smell of great burgers and sausages, kindly cooked up by the civilian committee. And there were plenty of beach games and music to keep everyone having fun the whole day.

222 are always looking for new ways and locations to recruit and the day seemed like the ideal opportunity. The gazebo made a great canvas with which to hang their new recruitment banner. The idea generated lots of interest from passers-by and from one or two prospective new recruits

Adult Sgt Chris Brand organised the event: “The cadets have got a really busy and exciting summer ahead of them with camps, sport tournaments and visits organised for them to take advantage of. Today is a great opportunity to meet the parents of our latest recruits and an excuse for us all, to really let our hair down.”

by: CI Neil Wright Sqn MCO 222 (Broadlands) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

23 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                   Back to top of page

It's Showtime!

The Bedfordshire County Show, held between 11 and 12 July, provided the perfect venue for 134 (Bedford) Sqn to show-case the Air Cadet Organisation to the general public.

Held in Old Warden Park and in the shadow of Shuttleworth House, a magnificent grade two listed Victorian Country House built in 1872, the Squadron set up an eye catching recruitment stand along side colleagues from the Royal Air Force Careers office at Cambridge.

Working in teams throughout the weekend, the cadets mingled with the crowds handing out information packs and talking to young people about the activities on offer within the Corps.

Despite the weather, sun and showers, the show was well attended and there was a lot of interest shown by the public in the Air Cadet stand.

The atmosphere of the event was enhanced when aircraft from the nearby Shuttleworth Collection flew over the show. There were some impressive displays by the Collection’s Gloster Gladiator, Hawker Sea Hurricane and Westland Lysander.

Mr V Cirin, Squadron Recruiting Officer said: “Yet again the cadets rose to the occasion and enthusiastically promoted the Air Cadet Organisation. Youngsters from as far afield as Tring, Kettering, Hatfield and Aylesbury visited the stand and went away with information packs and how to find their nearest squadron. This was another successful event to promote the Light Blue Footprint in Bedfordshire.”
 

by: CI Chris Wiggins Sqn MCO 134  (Bedford) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

19 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                            Back to top of page

Beeston Supports Local Carnival

Cadets from 1359 (Beeston) Sqn attended the annual Beeston Carnival held on Saturday 11th July. The squadron had their own stand displaying details of the various activities that the Air Training Corps offers to teenagers and adults alike.

Staff and cadets were on hand to speak to the public about these activities as well as handing out stickers and posters. They also spent time speaking to potential new recruits about what the Corps could offer them.

On show was their Viking glider cockpit, which proved to be a big draw to the public with a continuous queue of people waiting to get their turn at the controls.

The squadrons recently formed continuity drill team were also in attendance and performed a sequence in the main square before joining the parade from the Town Hall to Broadgate Park where the carnival was held.

by: CI Mike Hill Sqn MCO 1359 (Beeston) Sqn - South and East Midlands Wg

14 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                       Back to top of page

Even Spiderman Had a Go!

On Saturday July 4th, cadets from 207 (Cranfield) Sqn once again gave up a day in front of the television to help the local community.

The cadets had been invited to assist at Cranfield Lower School’s annual summer fete by performing a drill display and running a recruitment stand for the Squadron.

The cadets also put together a small confidence course which was a big hit with both youngsters and superheroes alike- even Spider Man and Batman had a go!

Flt Lt Paul Weston, the Commanding Officer of 207 Squadron said: "It was a great display and the cadets worked hard to promote the Air Training Corps in the local community and help raising much needed funds for the school."

Images: :  Spiderman is put through his paces by the cadets!

by: Fg Off Matt Dolton Sqn MCO 207 (Cranfield) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

12 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Fete Fantastic

30 cadets from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn have helped their local community by running a stall and helping many others at the annual Melbourn village fete.

The cadets set up a stand along with a flight simulator to continue the Squadrons recruiting success which saw them recently win the enterprise trophy at the recent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing review.

Along with this the Cadets helped other stall holders set up and manned the entry and exit points for the fair guiding members of the public.

The Cadets managed to hold their own in the tug of war competition competing against other local organisations.

CWO Martin Goddard said “We had lots of positive comments regarding the turnout of the Cadets, their behaviour and their helpfulness. This kind of event is an excellent recruitment tool and is one of many events which has helped the Squadron grow by over 400%.”

The Squadron have supported this event for a few years now and already have next year on the Squadron calendar.

Image: Cdt Sgt Rupert Sage knows how to ‘sell’ the Squadron!

by: CI Gemma Brown Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

9 Jul 2009                                                                                                                                                                                         Back to top of page

489's Recruitment Drive

489 (Accocks Green & Olton) Sqn have made the most of the sunshine this weekend and have been out and about in Solihull town centre recruiting new cadets and adult volunteers to join the fast growing and vibrant squadron.

OC 489 Squadron, Fg Off Jo Coles said: "I’m overwhelmed by the interest we received and look forward to the new cadets and staff joining the team."

The cadets also collected for the charity ‘Help for Hero’s’ and thank everyone for their kind donations.

by Cpl Simon Watson RAF Sqn MCO 489 (Accocks Green & Olton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

4 Jul 2009                                                                                                             Back to top of page

Nottingham Air Cadets Support the Armed Forces

Air Cadets from Beeston and Stapleford joined all branches of the Armed Forces to celebrate Armed Forces Weekend at Wollaton Park, Nottingham.

Enduring the heat and humidity of the weekend weather, the cadets from 1359 (Beeston) and 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadrons, joined with the Royal Air Force to present a united 'Light Blue' presence amongst the predominating 'Brown' of the Army.

Although initially to be a recruiting opportunity for all the local squadrons, the help of the cadets was requested by the RAF to help run their show. This meant that the cadets were employed on running the Penalty Shooting game, helping with the 'Simulator Cockpit' and best of all, helping to set up and then assist with the tethered RAF Hot Air Balloon

“We could not have managed without your hard work and enthusiasm,” said a member of the RAF Recruiting team at the end of the arduous weekend. Cdt Cpl Robbie Dinsdale who was asked to help with the Balloon, said, after overcoming his obvious excitement: “Being allowed to operate the controls of the Hot Air Balloon was an experience well worth the hard work during the weekend” adding, “yet another experience I may never have had if I wasn’t a member of the Air Cadets.”

The stand produced many enquiries from prospective cadets and adult staff.
 

Images: 1. A busy time at the Recruiting Marquee; 2. Cdt Cpl Robbie Dinsdale (left) is shown how to fly a Hot Air Balloon.

by Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO South & East Midlands Wg

28 Jun 2009                                                                                                                                                                                  Back to top of page

Recruiting at Eastwood Park

Cadets from 1082 (Brimington & District) and 140 (Matlock) Squadrons spent last Sunday enjoying the sun as they manned a recruitment table at the annual gala day at Eastwood Park.

The cadets also took the opportunity to take part in all the activities going on at the gala.

Image: Cdts Josh Milner, Jack Dye, Lewis Cree, Hannah Walton, Josh Boyce & Harry Sharman-Davies.

by John Fallon 1082 (Brimington & District) Sqn - Trent Wg
 

17 Jun 2009                                                                                                                        Back to top of page