Deal Castle was a fitting setting for 2235 Deal Squadron Air Cadets presentation evening.

Cadets, their families and supporters gathered with staff and committee members for the evening attended by Air Marshal Christopher Nickols, Sqn Ldr Cremin and Sqn Ldr Bull.

The evening started with a presentation and slide show by the Cadets highlighting the events and activities for the past year.

Classification Awards were awarded to: First Class: Aaron Clausen, Finley Wilson, Henry Shek, Lauren Hegarty, Luke Woodgate, Maisy Willson and Oscar Benfield. Leading: Alper Buldu, Jack Whitehead and Spencer Hall. Senior: Amy Berridge and Charlie Taylor. Master: James Sorrell. Sports Cadet: Jack Whitehead. Best New Recruit: Maisy Willson. Best Cadets: Amy Berridge and James Sorrell. The Cadets Cadet award was given to Charlie Taylor.

As former supporters through the Coop Community Fund, a new award for Community Cadet was presented by Mill Hill store Manager Andy Street to Amy Berridge for her dedicated involvement in community events.

Deputy mayor Cllr David Cronk presented the award of Most Improved Cadet to Lacey Fagg.

Promotions were also given out on the evening: Cadet to Cadet Corporal: Jack Whitehead, Charlie Taylor, Amy Berridge and Lacey Fagg Cadet Corporal to Cadet Sergeant: James Sorrell.

2235 Officer Commanding, Flight Sergeant Stuart Gemmel said “Following a difficult year for Deal Squadron and after being threatened with closure, it is great to see the number of Cadets now attending each week”.

Fl Sgt Gemmel took over the role of OC, moving from civilian committee member to uniformed staff last year to save the Squadron.

Cadet turned civilian instrutor Jack Gilbey also stepped info uniform to support him.

Cadets meet at The Drill Hall in Hope Road and were thrilled to learn on the evening that the premises will have new windows installed and be redecorated in the near future.

“We, like many squadrons, have faced some serious challenges this year. But we keep working hard to secure the future of a great squadron,” said civilian instructor Ken Gilbey.

The evening ended with a buffet provided by the civilian committee.

Chairman Andy Fyfe joked “Deal Air Cadets offers the cheapest child minding service in town.” Cadet subscription is only £10 per month and they meet every Tuesday and Thursday evening.

For details about the Air Cadets call 01304 389024 (Tuesday and Thursday)or Stuart Gemmell on 07751 713511.

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