A showcase of drill skills and pictures of activities enjoyed by youngsters was part of the annual inspection prizegiving of Deal Air Cadets.

2235 (Deal) Squadron, The Mercury’s 2017 Charity of The Year, held the event at the Drill Hall in Hope Road, observed by parents and guests including mayor of Deal Cllr David Cronk, Charlie Elphick MP, Air Marshall Chris Nickols, Wing Commander Russ Goodayle and Kerry Latham of Park Street Cooperative.

Air Marshall Chris Nickols inspected the cadets, spending time to talk to each individually, and presented the awards.

In his speech he said he was very impressed by the cadets’ dedication and enthusiasm. He also thanked the staff, civilian committee and parents for their support, making Deal a excellent squadron to be involved with.

Cadet of the Year: Cdt Lewin Rocekteer is a new award as this summer the Cadets have been working on rocket building, an exciting addition to the curriculum.

New recruits, brothers Cdt Goode and Cdt Goode were enrolled on the evening along with Cdt Bonnor and several Cadets received their first class classification badges.

Kerry Latham from Park Street Cooperative store presented Squadron OC, Flt Lt.

John Kealy, with a donation for £200 raised by staff and store customers.

BLOB: New recruits aged 12 plus are welcome, for more information please contact The Squadron on Tuesday or Thursday evenings between 7pm to 9.30pm on 01304 389024 or anytime by email: oc.2235@aircadets.org

Numbers are still available for their 100 Club. Application forms are available from the Mercury office, 13 Queen Street, Deal, or by emailing treasurer.2235@aircadets.org