Air Cadets from 1407 (Newton Aycliffe) Squadron recently attended the annual Wing Competitions Day where they competed against 34 other squadrons from Durham and Northumberland in drill, aeromodelling, aircraft recognition and first aid. Our cadets excelled themselves, finishing 2nd in the drill competition and 4th overall. They have their eyes set on first place for next year!
Through the Air Cadet organisation cadets can gain their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Four cadets recently completed the expedition section of their Bronze Award following a two day walk through Teesdale, taking in High Force. Almost every cadet is working towards an Award by volunteering, doing sport and learning a new skill.
FSgt Lowe and Cdt Smith have been very busy. They are both members of the Wing Band and recently joined other cadets from the Corps playing at Edinburgh’s Beating the Retreat, playing to Lord Lieutenants, Group Captains and other dignitaries. They are currently on camp at a Tri-Service Band meeting and will be playing at a series of Royal events in Scotland.
1407 would like to thank all the staff at Newton Aycliffe Fire Station for the very enjoyable visit we had to the station. Cadets learned about how the station operates and got to use the hoses and see the appliances.
Team Durham held a Mini Mudder event; a wet and muddy obstacle course for 4-11 year olds, raising money for their Zambia project. Air Cadets from Aycliffe helped to run the event by setting up the course, encouraging the participants and marshalling. They even had a go around the course themselves!
With the nicer weather, Cadets have also been enjoying adventure training. The squadron have had two activity day walks and also rock climbing. Five cadets have completed their Bronze National Navigation Award Scheme.
Cadets have also enjoyed clay pigeon shooting. Two novices, Cdts Lakey and Smith, have shown particular talent, both scoring very highly.
There’s no rest as we move in to summer. With lots of camps, sport, flying, competitions and events coming up, 1407 can again look forward to an exciting few months. If you’re aged 13-17 and want to get involved then visit our website for details on how to join www.1407aircadets.org
