TAVISTOCK Air Cadets put all their activities on show for the town mayor, Jenny Metcalf, recently. The mayor was invited to visit following the council?s support of the charity abseil off the town hall. The group?s aims of promoting an interest in aviation, in the spirit of adventure and citizenship training were well to the fore. A short continuity drill display by a team trained by A/Sgt Graham Ross started the evening. Cllr Metcalf saw how drill instils discipline, pride and encourages teamwork and a sense of achievement. Cadets take part in all aspects of adventure training, walking, camping, canoeing, abseiling, kayaking and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Tent erection and cooking were demonstrated. Flt Sgt Kirstie Ingrams has just returned from cross country skiing in Germany. Flying is still popular with staff and cadets alike. Preparation for gliding in Vigilant aircraft and powered flights in Grob Tutor aircraft takes place in the Squadron?s flight simulator. A recent computer programme enables the cadets to fly over Tavistock and district. Cadets over 16 can apply to learn to fly solo. Air rifle, 0.22 and full bore shooting are a regular feature of the cadet programme. The unit has its own air rifle range, the use of a local smallbore range and there are regular long range shoots at Wilsworthy and Tregantle. Cllr Metcalf learned that safety of weapon handling is the first principle to grasp before shooting can take place. Radio communication is taught using the squadron?s UHF and VHF equipment. The communicator badge, awarded when cadets are proficient, is a prized possession. A variety of leadership exercises using ropes, poles, oil drums and planks, develop confidence and teambuilding. The St John?s Life Saver Award is a recent addition to the skills that prepare young people for adult life. The volunteer staff give academic training in propulsion, navigation and aircraft design to help the young members achieve various levels of a BTec qualification.There are opportunities for visits to service stations at home and abroad. Cllr Metcalf was impressed with the opportunities available to members, the keeness of the cadets and the commitment of the staff. New cadets are welcome throughout the year. Young people aged between 13 and 17 years of age are eligible to join. Tavistock Air Cadets meet every Tuesday between 6.30pm and 9.30pm at the Cadet Centre at Crelake off Pixon Lane. Contact 01822 612927 or 612743 for details or visit their website 2312 Sqn ATC.
