TAVISTOCK Air cadets were delighted when town mayor Cllr Anne Johnson inspected the unit and presented the squadron's annual awards.

Cllr Johnson has strong ties with the unit as her husband, Paul, is a civilian instructor in outdoor pursuits and son David is an ex-cadet. The mayor is a civilian instructor helping the BTEC students.

Cllr Johnson inspected the 36 cadets on parade then watched the enrolment of eight new cadets into the squadron by the Rev Laurie Scott, squadron chaplain. Parents relatives and friends witnessed the enrolments and then toured the unit to see the activities on offer. Light refreshments were followed by an amusing and informative powerpoint presentation of the squadrons activities over the past 12 months, prepared by civilian instructor Shaun Reid.

Cllr Johnson paid tribute to the commitment of the volunteer staff and encouraged all the cadets to take advantage of the wonderful opportunities the Air Training Corps offers.

This year's awards: Cadet of the Year, Guy Williams; Newcombe Trophy best NCO, Cpl Rachel Collard; Mitchell Sport Trophy, Sgt Reece Day; Best Junior Cadet, Alfie Beattie; Crook Drill Trophy, Jamie Brown; Saunders Attendance Trophy, Alexandra Cox; Laing Shooting Trophy, Michael Ives; Endeavour Trophy, Matthew Boyle; Quinnell Model Trophy, Tom Barclay.

BTEC certificates in Public Service were presented to Sgt Luke Turon, Sgt Daniel Reid, Cpl Rachel Collard. All three gained the award with distinction.

New cadets aged 13 years are welcome. Full details can be found at http://www.2312squadron.co.uk">www.2312squadron.co.uk or tel 612743.