MARCH air cadets celebrated a very successful year at their annual Dining in Night held at the town’s Conservative Club.

Commanding officer Flight Lieutenant Kirsty Burnham said the 1220 (March) Squadron had continued to grow with 46 cadets registered. She added that hard work had paid off for both individuals and the squadron as a whole.

There has been a number of successes in Aviation Studies and Public Services and the first BTEC in Music was awarded to CFS Alex Ferguson. The BTEC successes are equivalent to 82 GCSEs.

Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has been very strong with 36 cadets taking part. Bronze awards have already been completed by 21 cadets, 13 have their silver awards and three their gold awards.

The squadron’s success in BTEC and D of E was recognised when it was awarded the Beds & Cambs Wing Enterprise Trophy.

With flying playing a key part in activities, nine cadets have gliding wings, and CFS Toni Arnold received her gold wings this year.

Thirteen cadets passed the ATC Communicators Award with more than two thirds of cadets holding a Bronze National Navigation award demonstrating map reading and expedition skills.

After first aid training 34 cadets hold the St John Youth First Aid badge with six completing the full First Aid at Work course. The squadron also has qualified Heart Start trainers.

Sgt Luke Goodall was awarded the Beds & Cambs Wing male cadet of the year and WO Tammy Curwen was presented with the Gibson Goblet for services to shooting.

Next year the Squadron will be hosting the Northern Sector ATC Sunday parade in February which will mark the 70th anniversary of the ATC. Fund raising is underway for the staging of the event and to buy a new squadron banner.