East Lancs Wing ATC News

515 for 2 - Detached Flight ‘Bag’ a Cricket Score

2011-09-23T21:31:00.002+01:00

On Saturday 17 September 2011, Saddleworth Detached Flight raised over £515 in two consecutive Saturdays at the Greenfield Tesco store, Saddleworth, Oldham.

After doing four hours bag-packing on the 10^th September the cadets were asked if they wanted to come back on the next weekend as another organisation had dropped out.The answer was, of course, “Yes”, so the Detached Flight was back on the 17^th to help the local shoppers.

The total raised by the Diggle based 2200DF, part of East Lancashire Wing, was £515.31p, which will go towards Aero-modelling and Sports equipment.

In the picture with cadets Nick Jeffrey, Nathan Barnes, Adam Simkins, Daniel Oldham and Frazer McDonald is Tesco Manager Craig Slater.

Cadets Clean Up City

2011-08-22T21:22:00.002+01:00

Air Cadets from Royton Squadron took part in a city wide clean-up operation, organised by Greater Manchester Police & Youth United, on Wednesday 17^th August 2011 following the rioting which took place on the 10^th & 11^th August. A group of Royton Cadets joined the event after being contact by Youth United (A coalition of uniformed youth groups) to show that the vast majority of children and young people within our communities, right across Greater Manchester, act as good citizens and are positive role models for future generations.

The Cadets helped to try and return Manchester and Salford towards normality, by assisting small businesses and vulnerable people from within the community. T-Shirts were provided by ASDA, lunch by Waitrose and cleaning materials and flowers by B&Q, with the event supported by the ‘I Love Manchester’ campaign (organised by Manchester City Council) and the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Warren Smith.

The Lord Lieutenant started the day by welcoming and thanking the Cadets for their time. He said that they were the most important people in the room – and a fine example of the organisations that they represent. He praised them for giving up their time in the school holidays to help their local community and to help fix those images that have been portrayed of children and young people by the news in a negative light.

The eager work party was then sent to Holm Court, a high-rise block of flats in Salford, accompanied by Inspector Simon Miskell from Greater Manchester Police. The elderly residents that live in this building directly overlook Salford precinct, which was one of the main areas that rioting took place. Insp Miskell said; “These elderly residents were scared whilst the rioting took place right on their doorstep”.

Rosie O’Leary (16) was one of the Cadets that spent the afternoon clearing flowerbeds of rubbish, turning soil and planting flowers to brighten up the compound. Rosie said; “I’ve really enjoyed myself this afternoon. It’s good to know that the old people that live here will feel a bit better knowing that there are people my age who do care about our city and are willing to help others”.

Flying Officer Benjamin Atkins, an Officer at the Park Lane squadron, said: “The Cadets that have volunteered here today have proven to the people of this community that not all young people should be tied with the same brush. There has been some fantastic work here by these young people and they have certainly made a difference to people who were affected by the trouble. The residents have been out in force to thank the Cadets for their work and they are extremely grateful for what they have done.”

Fg Off Atkins went on to say; “Our Squadron has been in Royton for 70 years this year and although we are a charity ourselves, the amount of time the young people from our area have volunteered to help others and the amount of money raised always exceeds our expectations”.

Royton Air Cadets was recently named as the runner-up for the title of ‘Best Squadron in the UK’, which placed them second out of over 1000 squadrons. For further details, or if you are interested in joining the Squadron in the September intake, please telephone 0161 624 4227 or visit RoytonAirCadets.org.uk.

Shooting Success & Cadet Blues

2011-08-22T21:18:00.001+01:00

SUCCESS at Royton Air Cadets has seen 8 Cadets shoot their way to a marksmanship award after several weeks training and practice shooting at targets to become hot shots.

To qualify for their Marksman Badges, cadets have to demonstrate the ability to hit a target accurately and consistently, by performing varied shooting practices.

Cadets at 1855 (Royton) Squadron have achieved more than 60 Marksmanship Awards at all levels in the last year, with just less than three quarters of all members on the unit now at an accomplished level.

One of the lucky recipients of an award, Cadet Flight Sergeant Rhianne Ward-Hilton is delighted that the squadron has been successful in the discipline of Marksmanship. She said: “The Grouping and Deliberate exercises are a test of our ability to fire and get the rounds on the target as close together as possible, while also achieving a top score. You get plenty of time to complete the practice and it’s all about accuracy and consistency.”

Weapons Instructor, Flying Officer Benjamin Atkins, said; “Royton Squadron is lucky to have its own Air Rifle and a 25 yards Rifle Range. The cadets get the opportunity to practice regularly & many of the cadets have achieved their Squadron & Wing Marksmanship Awards.”

“Shooting is one of the most enjoyable activities we offer and we’ve certainly got some top shots on the unit now. It is down to the hard work of the staff team that we have achieved so many this year as we now have 4 Range Officers on our Squadron.”

Cadets at all levels of the Air Cadet Organisation have the opportunity to participate in the sport of rifle shooting. Safety is paramount with all Cadet activities and shooting is no exception.

Training is an integral part of the system and each cadet is fully trained before they are permitted to conduct range practices. Supervising staff are similarly trained to deal with any eventualities and to ensure that the range is run safely and efficiently.

Other Cadets at the Park Lane Squadron have had Cadet ‘Blues’ this week. Success in athletics, music and aviation based exams has seen several members of the 70 strong unit receive the prestigious award known as a ‘Blue’.

Officer Commanding Royton Air Cadets, Flight Lieutenant Mark Hamilton, said; “Our young men and women put the maximum amount of effort in to everything that they do. This Squadron is one of the best in the country and that is mainly through the hard work and determination that is demonstrated by our Cadets in everything that they attempt. To be awarded a Squadron or Wing Blue you have to stand out from the rest and really go that extra mile.”

Royton Air Cadets is celebrating its diamond anniversary this year after with a 70 years anniversary dinner at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in December. For further details, or if you are interested in joining the Squadron in the September intake, please telephone 0161 624 4227 or visit RoytonAirCadets.org.uk.

Awards Success for Air Cadets

2011-08-22T21:16:00.002+01:00

AIR Cadets Liam Blackmore, Rosie O’Leary, Victoria Coltas and Emma Crooks from 1855 (Royton) Squadron were recently awarded their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards after several months of hard work.

As part of the scheme the cadets undertook a variety of skills, service, physical activities and an expedition over a six month period to qualify for the award. This included becoming proficient in first aid, improving their fitness, learning to read a map and to plan and undertake an expedition for 2 days and 1 night.

The greatest challenge was the expedition section, when the group headed off to the Peak District. The aim was to safely navigate 15 miles of the great outdoors over two days.

The groups were supervised from a distance, meeting adult staff at selected checkpoints along the route. Steve Schofield, a Civilian Instructor at Royton Squadron said; “They thoroughly enjoyed the freedom and responsibility, and the success of the expedition was down to their preliminary training.”

Liam said: "The expedition was really hard, but the best bit of the D of E scheme. I am really looking forward to the challenge of my Silver award."

Ex ATC Royton Cadet “Drops In”

2011-08-10T18:02:00.003+01:00

Ex Air Cadet, now Aircrew Sergeant Steve Jones flew in to Royton Squadron ATC on Monday evening, 08 August 11.

Steve, with the crew of 27 Squadron RAF Chinook HC2, Zulu Alpha 708, was on duty in the Manchester area and plans were made to visit Steve’s old Squadron at Royton near Oldham.

After circling Royton to check the landing area, the helicopter touched down at 1915 hrs. Steve had previously said “I always wanted to land on the back field”..............’Job Done’ there!

Steve presented a signed scroll from the Chinook crew to Cadet Warrant Officer Kate Hamilton who received it on behalf of the 1855 Squadron cadets and staff.

Also at the squadron reception were Steve’s sister Clare and his stepdad Les.

Sgt Jones, who was a Cadet Warrant Officer at Royton Squadron, joined the RAF in 2003 and is now based at RAF Odiham near Basingstoke. He still manages to get back to Royton for special occasions such as presentation evenings, to keep his links with the cadets.

The landing probably took the residents the Royton area by surprise but the squadron ‘back field’, used for cadet sport and adventure training preparation, is one of few clear areas where an aircraft the size of a Chinook could land.

Keeping engines running, the Chinook took off about 15 minutes after touchdown and was a memorable event for the squadron’s cadets and the many parents who had turned out.

1855 (Royton) Squadron Air cadets are the ‘High Achievers’ of East Lancashire Wing ATC. They have won the national marching band Championship and have recently won the Morris Trophy awarded – also in 2008 - to the ATC's premier squadrons following review by the Commandant Air Cadets.

Many in Oldham and Royton nickname the squadron “RAF Royton”............it was on Monday!!

Cadet Daniel Whittam “cuts it fine” to pull ‘3G’ with The Blades

2011-07-29T22:38:00.003+01:00

Thirteen year old Cadet Daniel Whittam knows his RAF abbreviations and because of that won himself a fantastic opportunity to fly with The Blades, the unique four-aircraft aerobatics team, during the Press Day for the RAF Waddington International Airshow.

Daniel, a member of 1005 (Radcliffe) Squadron, East Lancs Wing, saw the competition on the ACO’s website where entrants had to say what the abbreviation ISTAR stood for.

He completed his answer and “ran to the Post Office on the last possible date to enter”. Daniel broke the winning news on Facebook after other competitors started asking who won!

Daniel has only been a member of 1005 Squadron for about 10 months but has already been gliding and completed a first aid course. He has a fascination with display teams having visited the Red Arrows and completed a school project on ‘The Reds’ too.

After his 15 minute flight with “Blade 4”, Mark Cutmore (all Blades pilots are former members of the Red Arrows), Daniel said it was “really good to see the other aircraft so close when we were in formation and up close with them” and although slightly disappointed that some of the more extreme manoeuvres were off-limits as he had a cold (they still pulled 3g!), it was still a “great day”.

As well as the flight Daniel also got a full set of pilot autographs and a goodie bag from the RAF Waddington Airshow organisers. After his flight, Daniels and his family were able to stay in the Press enclosure and watch practice displays including a rare UK display by the US Air Force's Thunderbirds display team.

Oh yes, and ISTAR stands for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance." And you will find the “Blades” at www.theblades.biz

Award-Winning Pendle Cadets on a real high

2011-07-29T22:36:00.001+01:00

Pendle’s award winning Air Cadets have been presented with their prizes at Walter Street Working Men’s Club in Brierfield on 15^th May.

The 1104 (Pendle) Air Training Corps Squadron, East Lancashire Wing, based in Nelson, had 85 guests and parents at the event, including the retiring Mayor and Mayoress of Pendle, Councillor Tony Beckett and his wife Margaret as well as Wing Commander Steven Molloy, Officer Commanding East Lancashire Wing.

The cadets took part in 37 different activities during 2010 and were presented with their certificates and trophies to celebrate their achievements.

In addition, a special St John Ambulance certificate was awarded to former 1104 Squadron cadet Thomas Garnett.

The major award winners were:

Best Academic Cadet: Sgt Adaam Mehmood, Most Adventurous Cadet: Cadet Ben Wilcox, Best Cadet at Sports: Cadet Jefferson Piaun-Sanchez, Most Promising Cadet: Cadet Christopher Tansey, Cadet’s Best Cadet Nomination: Cadet Jefferson Piaun-Sanchez, Royal British Legion Award: Cadet Christopher Tansey, NCO of the Year: Sgt Adaam Mehmood, Cadet of the Year: Cadet Jefferson Piaun-Sanchez.

East Lancashire Wing Musicians are on top note

2011-03-06T15:34:00.004Z

Cadets from East Lancashire Wing got the chance to show off their musical skills at the 16th Annual concert band display, in Whittle Hall at RAF Cranwell.

The concert is the culmination of a week-long intensive training and practise session, in which cadets from around the country join forces and rehearse different musical pieces with guidance from of one of the Royal Air Force bands. This year the Band of the Royal Air Force Regiment provided the expert support.

Despite almost half of the band never meeting before, they quickly settled down under the expert tutelage of the Corps Music Director, Wing Commander Gil Singleton, who took them through their paces with a range of traditional and some newer musical scores.

The Friday night concert was performed to a packed Whitle Hall audience of some 400+. In the audience where quite a few VIPs, including the AOC Air Cadets, Air Commodore Barbara Cooper and the Duke of Rutland, David Manners. Most importantly though, were the parents and friends of the cadets who were performing.

The band played a variety of pieces, ranging from the RAF College and Battle of Britain March Past to Dr Who, Superman and the Great Escape. Cdt Laura Iddles (17) from 1036 Sqn performed a superb vocal addition, singing Bring him Home from Les Miserable’s.

The four cadets representing East Lancashire Wing were; Flight Sergeant Newington (468 Sqn) on Trumpet, Cpl Claydon (2200DF) on Cornet, Cdt Iddles (1036 Sqn) on Percussion and Vocals, and Cdt Ward (1036 Sqn) on the Tuba.

Cadets wanting to join the concert band have to meet stringent criteria. One of which is that all musicians have to be qualified to Grade 5 practical or equivalent. In addition, the cadets have to be recommended by their Commanding Officer and a music teacher or Squadron bandmaster.

Staff from East Lancs Wing were also present, carrying out the thankless task of running the camp and organising the events. Sqn Ldr Eddie Kay and Flt Lt Sara Kay, who also provide support for cadets undertaking the BTEC awards, were part of the admin team making sure everything ran smoothly whilst the music staff concentrated on the training and rehearsing.

The band camp and concert are only the start of the music calendar for the National Concert Band. In 2010 the team attended the Royal International Air Tattoo in July to play at the Gala Dinner on the Friday night, and to the Public on the Saturday and Sunday in front of thousands of spectators. If that wasn’t enough, they teamed up again for a Help for Hero’s concert in Hampshire in October.

This year, the 2011 band are due to return to RIAT for another outstanding performance as well as a lunch time concert at St Clement Danes, Central Church of the RAF in London. Work is also in progress for the formation of an Air Cadet Salon Orchestra. A successful initial workshop was held at RAF Northolt in late 2010 under the guidance of the RAF Salon Orchestra, with a follow-up workshop planned for the 10th April, at RAF Northolt. This group will be an integral part of the Air Cadet National Concert Band, with the flexibility to provide a wider range of musical support for Headquarters Air Cadets.

Watch out for more information on how to join to concert band or their performances. The Air Cadets also runs a National Marching Band which also hold training camps and take part in public displays. If you would like more information on any of these, please contact your Commanding Officer who will be able to obtain more information for you.

You can see some of the performance which has been uploaded to YouTube by one of the parents in the audience, http://www.youtube.com/user/BabsS59
Note: East Lancs Wing ATC are not responsible for content outside of this site.

Greater Manchester Air Cadets’ Battle of Britain Parade

2010-09-06T23:15:00.005+01:00

Supporting the Royal Air Force celebrations of the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, Air Cadet Squadrons from across Greater Manchester took part in the annual parade in central Manchester on Sunday, 5th of September.

Starting at 2.30 p.m. in Albert Square, in front of the City’s Town Hall, cadets from East Lancashire Wing came together with cadets from East Cheshire and South Manchester Wing and Royal Air Force airmen from DCAE (ex RAF) Cosford for the Parade.

Also parading at the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) organised event was a contingent of Sea Cadets from Training Ship Frobisher, Rochdale.

The parade marched to St Anne’s Square, followed by a Service of Remembrance in St Anne’s Church, commemorating those who served in the Battle of Britain from July to October 1940.

After the service, there was a return parade to Albert Square where there was a march-past taken by the Lord Mayor of Manchester and senior uniformed representatives and led by the National Marching Band Champions, 1855 (Royton) Squadron Band, East Lancs Wing.

Throughout the day cadets collected for the RAFA 'Battle of Britain Wings Appeal' fund.

New North Manchester Squadron Building Opens

2010-08-24T18:04:00.002+01:00

Sunday 22nd August saw the Official Opening Ceremony of the new headquarters building of 1832 (North Manchester) Squadron at Longton Road, Blackley, Manchester.

The opening was performed by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Colonel Warren J Smith JP as well as the Lord Mayor of Greater Manchester, Councillor Mark Hackett. Also at this important Air Cadet occasion was Regional Commandant North, Group Captain John Middleton OBE.

Group Captain Middleton opened the proceedings by telling guests that he had a special interest in 1832 (North Manchester) Squadron as it was here that his ‘air’ career started before progressing into the Royal Air Force, culminating in piloting Avro Vulcan bomber aircraft.

The Lord Mayor praised the cadets, staff and civilian committee of the squadron for their hard work preparing the squadron for the opening ceremony and felt sure that the squadron would be an asset to the local community.

Colonel Smith spoke to staff and cadets who were on parade in front of the building with a bugle accompaniment by two of the squadron cadet musicians.

Following the official opening ceremony, all guests did a walkround of squadron facilities including the training rooms as well as the Flight Simulator, designed to give the cadets a ‘virtual experience’ of flying before going on to flying and gliding ‘for real’ at the squadron’s designated flying facilities on RAF Stations. Cadets fly from RAF Woodvale and 635VGS at (ex RAF) Topcliffe Airfield. Drummers from the squadron band also entertained the VIPs and guests.

The cadets of 1832 Squadron have occupied temporary accommodation for nearly six years since their original squadron building was declared as unusable and cadet numbers dropped because of this.

The squadron, now in its new building, has now started to increase in numbers thanks to publicity drives headed by squadron commander Flight Lieutenant Kevin McGuire and his adult staff.

Flight Lieutenant McGuire said “Since we moved into the new building we have been able to reform the Squadron band. Recruitment for new Cadets and Staff is moving forward at a pace and 1832 Squadron will now go from strength to strength”.

Saddleworth ‘Yanks’ Weekend’

2010-08-17T11:50:00.003+01:00

Tameside and Oldham Cadets and RAFA Join Forces at the Saddleworth ‘Yanks’ Weekend’

Tameside and Oldham cadets came together at the ‘Yanks’ weekend, 13-15 August, to help The Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA).

Cadets from 247 (Ashton) Squadron and 2200 (Oldham) Squadron distributed RAFA publicity material as well as raising the profiles of the Air Cadet squadrons and the local Saddleworth Detached Flight.

The ‘Yanks’ weekend is held at Saddleworth in August every year with military and vintage stalls and battle re-enactments as well as displays of American Classic Cars and military vehicles.
Highlight of the Sunday events was the flypast of the Second World War Douglas Dakota transport aircraft of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. The Dakota flew low over Churchill Playing Fields, Uppermill and Saddleworth villages three times before returning to base at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire.

The weekend saw the uniforms of GIs, British Army, Royal Navy and RAF as well as several [captured] German military personnel. Crowds were entertained by local brass bands, 1940s local artists and ‘rock’ bands.

All the proceeds from the ‘Yanks are Back in Saddleworth Weekend’ go to the Greater Manchester Region of RAFA.

The next event for East Lancs Wing cadets is the Battle of Britain Parade in Manchester on 5th of September.

ASHTON CADET SOARS WITH SUCCESS

2010-07-26T01:16:00.004+01:00

It has been a busy month for Tameside cadet, Richard Carter which has seen him pick up a national award, take part in a Royal Review in front of HRH The Prince of Wales and gain a promotion.

Richard (16), who is from Dukinfield, was recently awarded his certificate after completing the BTEC First Diploma in Public Services, achieving the highest grade possible, Distinction Star.

The qualification, mixes theory and practical elements with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork, communications, problem solving and fitness. This internationally respected qualification is equivalent to four GCSEs at A* level. The syllabus has been designed to improve valuable life skills. Richard has learnt professional CV preparation, interviewing techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition.

Earlier this month, Richard was one of a few lucky cadets selected to attend the Royal Review for the Cadet 150 Celebrations at Buckingham Palace. He joined cadets and adult volunteers from around the UK and from the MOD's sponsored cadet forces.

Almost 1700 individuals from the MOD's 4 cadet forces, the Combined Cadet Force, Sea Cadet Corps, Army Cadet Force and Air Training Corps converged in the early afternoon at Horse Guards Parade and set off for Wellington Barracks via The Mall. Each cadet force was led by its own band and were followed up by a combined Pipe band.

HRH Prince Charles took the salute outside Clarence House whilst the Red Arrows, each carrying a cadet, flew over the parade and Buckingham Palace.

On arrival at Wellington Barracks the cadets were marshalled by Garrison Sergeant Major Billy Mott ready for the march to Buckingham Palace where all the cadets had been invited to attend a garden party.

Most recently, Richard has undergone a competitive assessment against other cadets and has been promoted to the rank of Cadet Corporal, the first stage of a Non-Commissioned Officer. He will now undertake duties in training new cadets and showing them the ropes.

Summing up the last month Richard says, “I’ve been with the Squadron for over three years now, and this has been the busiest and by far the best month so far. I can’t wait to see what’s next on the horizon.”

Talking about his BTEC award, Richard says, “I’m really pleased that I finished my BTEC and I will be encouraging the other cadets to enrol this year. It gives you a bigger perspective of the public services, especially the Armed Forces.”

About the Royal Review, “I was so pleased to have been selected, and immensely proud to take part. There were over 900 Air Cadets and staff alone, and marching down the Mall toward Buckingham Palace, about to salute Prince Charles when the Red Arrows flew over made everyone grin”.

Flight Lieutenant Mike Dawson, Richard’s Commanding Officer says, “I remember the day Richard joined the cadets. In the last few years he has really developed some strong potential and shown excellent skills that will benefit him in the future. He was a credit to the organisation, and the Tameside area, when he took part in the Royal Parade. Combining that with his BTEC award and promotion have really made it a busy and challenging month for him.”

You don’t have to want to join the RAF to be an Air Cadet. Anyone aged between 13 and 18 can take part.

If you have a sense of Adventure and want to take part in Flying, Gliding, Sports, Expeditions for example why not get in touch to find out more.

For more information, call the Squadron on (0161) 344 1177 or you can also visit www.247ashtonatc.org.uk for more information.

East Lancs Wing Sector II Cadets ‘On Target’

2010-07-18T20:23:00.003+01:00

Cadets from Hyde, Oldham and Royton attended a Sector II Training Day on Sunday 18 July at 1855 [Royton] Squadron.

Archery, Shooting, Weapons Training and Flight Simulator were on the programme.

Archery was new to many but, with archery being a speciality of 1855 Squadron, cadets from three other units within the sector gained ‘flight experience’ with a difference.

The rain held off for most of the day and some of the cadets attained ‘Bulls Eye’ with their new archery skills.

During the occasional weather interruptions cadets from the four units (468, 1855, 2200 Squadrons and 2200 Detached Flight) took part in Air Rifle shooting with the Corps’ BSA Scorpion .177 pressure air rifle.

After the Sunday’s use of Royton’s ‘blue arrows’, archery will be on the sector training programme again soon.

Bury Cadet Receives Certificate from Air Cadets Chief

2010-07-08T12:31:00.008+01:00

Cadet Sergeant Shaun Warrington from 1036 (Bury) Squadron recently received his certificate for completing his Flying Scholarship from the new Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Barbara Cooper CBE.

To achieve this prestigious award Shaun undertook 12 hours flying training, including a solo flight, at Dundee earlier this year. Also at the presentation (and pictured) is Shaun's mother Mrs Angela Warrington.

1036 (Bury) leads the way for Armed Forces Day 2010

2010-07-05T10:57:00.001+01:00

The band of 1036 (Bury) Sqn joined forces with 2447 (Calder Valley) Sqn on Sunday 27th June in an Armed Forces Day parade through Todmorden in West Yorkshire. The parade, organized by the Todmorden branch of the British Legion, included two St Dunstaners, Mr Ronald Skidmore who lives in Sheffield and Mr Russell Halstead.

They took part in the parade as passengers in a 1940s Jeep while the St Dunstans standard was carried by Cdt Laura Iddles of 1036 Sqn. St Dunstans is a charity that assists blind ex-servicemen and women.

After a very successful example of cross border co-operation (Lancashire and Yorkshire that is), the band have been invited back next year. Flt Lt Liz Thomas, OC of 1036 Sqn, readily agreed on condition that the fabulous weather enjoyed for the parade would be arranged next time.

The band of 1036 (Bury) Sqn took part in the Armed Forces Day celebrations in Manchester on Saturday 26th June. On a very hot afternoon with not a drop of rain in sight the band led the parade onto Albert Square in front of Manchester Town Hall. Around the Square were exhibitions mounted by all three Services and all three cadet forces including an ATC flight simulator manned by cadets from a number of Squadrons in East Cheshire & South Manchester Wing. The Bury Squadron band played during the inspection of veterans and cadets by the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Mark Stanhope and the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Cllr Mark Hackett. The repertoire included ‘Sailing’ in honour of the First Sea Lord and ‘Dad’s Army’. The large crowd gathered in the Albert Square to watch the parade applauded after every piece. During the day there were also performances by the Band of the Lifeguards and the Greater Manchester Police Band and at the end of the afternoon, 1036 Squadron played again in front of a very appreciative crowd, to conclude the day’s events.

1855 (Royton) Squadron Band Play Top Tunes

2010-06-15T14:14:00.002+01:00

Yesterday, at RAF Linton-on-Ouse near York, Air Training Corps national marching band champions Royton Squadron won the North Region band competition and will represent East Lancashire Wing ATC in the national finals later in the year.

The band competed against other squadron bands from across the north of England from Cheshire up to Durham and Northumberland.

Since the Royton band won the accolade of ‘Marching Band Champions’ they have been in great demand and will shortly be performing at DCAE Cosford in front of the general public.

Royton Squadron Commander, Flight Lieutenant Mark Hamilton said “We are all very excited at the prospect of travelling to the National Championship once more, The Cadets and I have worked extremely hard to maintain the standard we set last year. We have changed the repertoire and that seems to have worked well. I would also like to thank all the parents who came along to see us lift the North Region trophy for a second year running. Well done to all.”

‘Inspirational’ cadet receives a top flight award

2010-06-15T14:11:00.003+01:00

There’s a special salute for Bury Air Training Corps Cadet Jordan Wild.

For the 17-year-old flight sergeant with the 1036 Squadron, based at the Castle Armoury, has been appointed a Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Greater Manchester for 2010-11.

He received his certificate of appointment and special gold embroidered badge of office at a presentation in Wigan from Greater Manchester’s Lord Lieutenant, Colonel Warren Smith.

Jordan’s selection means that he is considered the top Air Training Corps cadet for the county of Greater Manchester.

Colonel Gerry Wells-Cole said the teenager was a key staff member. He said: “Jordan is a dedicated and hard working cadet who gives of his best and inspires those around him.”

"RAC" to the future

2010-06-06T23:10:00.001+01:00

Tameside Cadets from Sector 2 East Lancashire Wing attended the Regional Activity Centre (RAC) at Altcar Training Camp for a weekend of challenging tasks.

The relatively new centre has been devised by the Air Cadet Organisation to give the cadets a fun, interactive experience in learning. The various equipment on offer includes flight simulation, air traffic control simulation and radio communications.

RAF Woodvale is literally 10 minutes from the Training Camp and provides Air Experience Flying for the Centre. Having had the opportunity to fly the Grob Tutor (RAF Trainer) on the simulator, some cadets are then actually given the opportunity to fly in the aircraft for real over the weekend.

The centre also offers the opportunity to conduct training in Leadership, First Aid, Shooting and Fieldcraft.

Cadet Eaton from Hyde Squadron said “It was a really good weekend. The flight sim was great and it was good to go shooting. Oh, and the food was really good too!”

The RAC offers a chance for the cadets to mix with other units from the surrounding areas. They are able to make new friends and take away experiences most young people would not think possible.

If you wish to know more about this activity or about the Air Cadets in the Tameside area please email Flt Lt Sean Ryan on oc.468@aircadets.org

Cadets make a splash!

2010-06-06T16:44:00.005+01:00

Cadets from around the Region gained their sea legs last week at the East Lancs Wing-organised Water Activity Course at TS Paletine.

20 Cadets took to the water of Hollingworth Lake with instructors from East Lancashire wing and the Sea Cadets Corps to learn about sailing, power boating and canoeing. The course, which is 5 day course, is a huge hit and often draws cadets from around the country.

Successful participants can come away with Royal Yachting Association and British Canoe Union certificates. Returning cadets can work at upgrading their qualifications to eventually become instructors.

One member of staff said, "On some days the water may be cold, but the cadets quickly forget about that after climbing in and out of boats for a few hours. At the end of the day, you can tell how much effort they have put in by how quiet it is in the wardroom".

If you would like to know more about the Wing Water Activity Course, speak to your Squadron staff.

247 Squadron lead the best of brass

2010-06-03T21:41:00.002+01:00

Ashton Squadron cadets were on hand at the weekend to introduce the best of Nations brass bands in the Tameside Whit Friday Brass Band Contest.

Supporting the organisers at the Broadoak Hotel venue, a team of 11 cadets and staff registered the competition entrants and submitted musical pieces to the judging team. At the same time a team of smartly turned out cadets marched the bands into the judging area in front of a crowd of 300.

Congratulations went to Foden's Band from Cheshire, who were awarded 1st place for the venue and second place in the overall Tameside area.

AOC comes to East Lancs Wing for his last official Sqn visit

2010-05-27T18:56:00.005+01:00

319 (City of Salford) cadets hosted Air Commodore Ian Stewart BSc FRAes RAF on his last visit to an Air Cadet Squadron before handing over to the new Commandant of the Air Cadets.

After a brief tour of the Squadron and introductions, the cadets took the opportunity to discuss the activities they have undertaken on the unit, their own views on the benefits of being a cadet, as well as posing some difficult questions to him about his life in the RAF, his new role with NATO and time as a cadet himself.

The Air Commodore used his visit to present certificates to the cadets from recent first aid courses, a bronze Duke of Edinburgh award and water activity qualifications. Also a special presentation of a certificate of Meritorious Service was made to Warrant Officer Steve Casey who has been a dedicated member of staff to the Air Cadet Organisation for 28 years. WO (ATC) Casey said, "Although we don't do this for certificates or awards, sometimes it is nice to take something home and it was especially touching that it was presented in person by the AOC".

All in all the night was a big success, and 319 Squadron appreciated the Air Commodore taking time out of his busy last week to visit the unit.

Stalybridge to Kandahar

2010-05-22T15:23:00.001+01:00

Tameside Air Cadets from Hyde, Ashton and Saddleworth took part in a fundraising event for the Help for Heroes Charity last weekend.

The event, organised by Sgt Oliver (RAF) from Leeds Armed Forces Careers Office raised a total of £1412 for the charity.

The Cadet’s and staff from the units participated in a representative distance challenge to cover the 3500 miles from Stalybridge to Kadahar (Afghanistan).

The FX Leisure gym at Stalybridge provided equipment for the event to allow the mileage to be clocked up on bikes, running and rowing machines.

The younger cadets participated in a bag packing exercise at the Dukinfield Morissons Store and raised a large proportion of the funds.

This was a fantastic effort by all who took part. A big thank you to the Gym members at Stalybridge FX Gym for putting up the milage and to the Gym/Dukinfirld Morissons for supporting the charity.

If you wish to find out more please contact Flt Lt Sean Ryan at oc.468@aircadets.org.

International Air Cadet Exchange 2010

2010-05-21T11:02:00.001+01:00

On Sunday 25^th July 2010 a party of foreign cadets and escorting officers will arrive in East Lancashire Wing as part of their tour of the North Region before departing to RAF Cranwell on Wednesday 28^th July. For their stay in East Lancashire Wing it is planned to ask the families of cadets and staff (including Civilian Committee members) to provide accommodation for the three nights, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.

The visiting cadets will be aged between 17 and 20. For many it will be their first time in the UK and the opportunity to meet and stay with a family will be one they will remember as a highlight of their visit.

East Lancashire Wing has a tradition of hosting our visitors with families whenever possible and this is something we would like to continue this year. There will be two other parties of visiting cadets being hosted in other areas of the country but we are the only Wing that is planning to host with families. As we only get to do this once every 5 or 6 years it means that we do not have a ready-made supply of accommodation and have to make a fresh appeal each time.

For more information, please urgently contact Flying Officer Rowan on 1036@aircadets.org

Blackburn schoolgirl, 14, saves pal choking on a toffee

2010-05-21T10:56:00.003+01:00

A QUICK-thinking schoolgirl has been honoured for saving the life of her classmate.

Hannah Morris sprang into action when her friend, Georgina Newby, 14, from Hoghton, was choking on a sweet while the teacher was out of the room at St Wilfrid’s School, Duckworth Street, Blackburn.

Using first aid skills learned with the local air cadets group, the 14-year-old performed three ‘back blows’ on her friend, who was unable to speak, dislodging the sweet and saving her life.

This week Hannah, a cadet corporal, was given a surprise St John Ambulance life-saving award in front of her colleagues at the 1262 Blackburn air cadets squadron, at Witton Stocks in Preston Old Road.

She said: “Everyone clapped. It was a big shock. I didn’t expect to get an award.”

Recalling the incident, on the first day of term in September, she said: “We were in a lesson and the teacher had gone out of the room.

“I looked at my friend and she was red in the face and waving her hand in front of her neck.

“I asked if she could cough, but she couldn’t even speak, so I gave her three back blows, which is what you’re meant to do.

“She was a bit in shock after so I gave her some water.

"She’s a good friend and afterwards she said I had saved her life.”

Hannah had learned the techniques the previous summer at a first aid course with the cadets.

Georgina said: “I just want to thank her for helping me and being there.

"I’m really happy she has been recognised for helping me.

"She was at the right place at the right time.”

Flight Lieutenant Dion Etheridge nominated her for the award, which was presented by the commanding officer for the East Lancashire wing.

He said: “This is a young girl who was faced with a life and death situation and had the guts, determination and confidence to make a decision and save a life.

“What she did was absolutely brilliant.”

A wheely nice contribution

2010-05-07T17:39:00.003+01:00

On the evening of 22nd April, cadets from 1969 (Rossendale) Squadron attended the last meeting of the Rossendale Bike Show committee. The bike show used to achieve it's aims every year, which were to promote motorcycling, to promote Rossendale and to raise money for charities.

All funds in the kitty were distributed to the charities and organisations that had helped over the years in the smooth running of the events. 1969 Squadron were the recipients of a cheque for £375 for all their marshalling efforts over the years. Cadet Corporal Jackson (right) and Cadet Niall Coxey were on hand to official receive the cheque on behalf of the Squadron.

Cadet Corporal Hannah Jackson

2010-05-07T17:25:00.003+01:00

Cadet Corporal Hannah Jackson a member of 1969 (Rossendale) Squadron Air Training Corps has become the first female cadet from the squadron to complete her Gliding Scholarship and the first cadet to fly "Solo" at 635 Volunteer Gliding School in 2010.

She flew solo at the end of January following a series of weekend training sessions at RAF Topcliffe in North Yorkshire. Corporal Jackson has been with the cadets since she was thirteen, during which time her interest in aviation has increased greatly, and after a three years of air experience flights and gliding induction courses it motivated her to apply for her scholarship as soon as she was old enough. What made it more of a special event for the squadron was that the pilot that sent her solo, Flight Lieutenant Andy Sweetmore RAF VR(T) form 635 Volunteer Gliding School now based at RAF Topcliffe, was himself an Air Cadet at 1969 (Rossendale) Squadron only seven years ago.

Corporal Jackson said flying solo "was the best feeling ever" and "would recommend it to any cadet who enjoyed flying."

Last year 1969 (Rossendale) Squadron, based on Burnley Road, was exceptionally successful with two cadets achieving gliding scholarships and further two achieving flying scholarships through the air cadet organization, Corporal Jacksons' scholarship has set the squadron to a good start to 2010.

Wing Training Day 2010

2010-05-04T15:07:00.000+01:00

Congratulations go to 1855 (Royton) Squadron for coming first overall at this years Wing training day. Producing impressive results in drill, shooting, general cadet training and first aid, Royton tiptoed away with a 3 point lead. Also in the top section were 1263 (Rochdale) gaining second place on 96 points, and 1036 (Bury) coming third with 95 points. Introduced for the first time this year was the flight sim competition which pitched teams from all squadrons against each other. Tasked to fly a 15 route from RAF Valley to Caernarfon cadets had to plan their journey, maintain speed, headings and altitude to gain points. Due to the success of this competition it will now feature as part of next years overall points.

Also presented, were the Clasp to the Cadet Forces Medal to Flt Lt S Morrell of 1099 (Worlsey) Squadron and WO(ATC) Cooper of 247 (Ashton) Squadron for 18 years service, and the Cadet Forces Medal to Flt Lt Mehta of 723 (Wigan) Squadron.

Tarmac lays foundations for Air Cadet safety course

2010-05-04T15:05:00.003+01:00

Air Cadets from East Lancashire undertook a British Safety Council Course in Workplace Hazard Awareness this weekend. The Course was delivered using equipment supplied by the construction giant Tarmac. Larger courses will now be run throughout 2010 for up to 100 cadets.

A young person is seriously injured in a UK workplace every 40 minutes. In the last decade, 66 under 19s have been killed at work. The British Safety Council is paying for all 14-19 year olds in full-time education to gain a nationally-recognised qualification in health and safety before they embark upon work experience or their first job.

Tarmac Building Products has assisted in the course delivery by providing 30 sets of Personal Protective Equipment for use by the cadets. David Ryan Plant Manager from Tarmac Agecroft said “Tarmac is committed to developing positive relationships with the local community. It was a pleasure to assist these young people as they embark upon health and safety training. In accordance with Tarmacs Zero Harm Culture we hope we have contributed to setting a standard, before the cadets enter a hazardous workplace”.

As the first course this was aimed at a small number of cadets to gauge the response and develop the delivery prior to the roll out across East Lancashire. The cadets very much enjoyed the practical experience this gave them and now have far more of an awareness of the potentially hazardous environments they could find themselves working in. Cadet Ben Bigland said “It was great, I will tell all my friends in the Cadets to do this Course. I liked the chance to use the Personal Protective Equipment and spot the Hazards around the building”.

Air Cadets Get The Boot

2010-05-04T15:01:00.003+01:00

Local Cadets from (Hyde & Hattersley) Squadron Air Cadets left Tameside behind last weekend and travelled to Rivington (Bolton) to take part in a two-day expedition.

The cadets were undertaking the expedition practice elements of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award at both Bronze and Silver level.

The Bronze Group (Pictured) managed to hone their map & compass skills and applied what they have been taught in training to help them survive the expedition. They have worked very hard this year to complete the other sections of this established and prestigious Award.

Annabel Crane (14) from Glossop said "It's much easier to understand map reading in the hills. I didn't really understand it properly until I came out here". Jake Berry from Hattersley (14) said "It's was a good experience until I lost my boot in a bog" (Pictured below).

The Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award has 4 sections, Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition. The cadets may enter this Award for free from 14 years of age.

The cadets at Hattersley have already completed the minimum length of activity for each of the sections, and have now fully planned and trained for their final Expedition in 2010. Samuel Readett (14) from Hattersley said "it was so hard carrying all my kit, but I want to go again" and Peter Smith (14) also from Hattersley said "I was glad to come home but I had a good time camping."

Flt Lt Ryan, Officer Commanding said "During the next phase of the Award our cadets will spend further time on one of the Volunteering, Physical or Skills sections. The Award becomes progressively harder through the levels and is a great achievement for the cadets".