Young airmen reach for the sky

Left to right: Paige Cleasby, Harrison Holmes, Carmina Shepherd and Ben Davis-Rice.

Four local air cadets have taken to the sky for the first time.

The cadets from 2200 (Oldham) Squadron Air Training Corps visited the Volunteer Gliding Squadron at RAF Topcliffe, North Yorkshire, to take part in a gliding induction course.

After a thorough safety briefing, the cadets who are based at Wellyhole Street, Lees, flew in a Vigilant glider supervised by experienced instructors.

Cadet Carmina Shepherd (14), said: “It was great fun, especially when I was given the opportunity to fly the aircraft.” Ft Lt Mike Holroyd, the Squadron’s Officer Commanding, said: “Flying and gliding are an essential part of cadet life. All of the instructors are volunteers, and we are grateful to them for giving up there time for these cadets.”

The Squadron meets every Monday and Wednesday, from 7pm to 9.30pm, at Wellyhole Street, Lees. Anyone between the ages of 13 and 16 is eligible to join the squadron. Anyone who wishes to join the squadron can call in at those times, or telephone the squadron on 01616241937. Alternatively, you can email the squadron on oc.2200@aircadets.org