A FORMER commanding officer and cadet of 2312 (Tavistock) Squadron Air Cadets returned to the unit recently to inspect the squadron and present the annual awards.

Sqn Ldr Phil Newcombe, who oversees the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme in the South West region, inspected the 46 cadets on parade in front of 80 parents and friends. The squadron band performed for the guests and five cadets gave presentations on their Gold DofE Award expeditions to complete that part of their award.

Parents and guests were able to tour the squadron and see the activities on offer at 2312. The new flight simulator proved very popular.

Flight sergeant Nathan Turnock and cadet warrant officer Ali Cox were on their final presentation parade before becoming adult staff.

Phil presented Cpl Rob Waddy, Sgt Kayleigh Rogers, Sgt Emily Pritchard and Flt Sgt Finlay Kirkman with BTEC certificates in aviation studies.

Annual awards were presented to Cdt Lauren Woodley for cadet of the year; Flt Sgt Finlay Kirkman, Newcombe trophy best NCO; Cpl Rob Waddy, Mitchell sport trophy; Cdt Natasha Detlaffe, best junior cadet; Cpl Upha Barclay, Crook Drill trophy; Cpl Tabitha Carpenter, Saunders attendance trophy; Cdt Lewis Laing, Laing shooting trophy and Cdt Ashleigh Coventry, Endevour trophy.

Phil paid tribute in his address to the smart turnout of 46 cadets on parade, the time given by the volunteer staff and the support from parents.

The squadron expressed thanks to all the parents who helped with refreshments.