News Archive

No 7 Overseas (Jersey) Squadron

No 7 Overseas (Jersey) Squadron, recently took to the skies when a C130J Hercules from RAF Lyneham came to the Island on a training exercise.  The aircraft, which was flown by a crew from the Heavy Aircraft Test Squadron (HATS) of RAF Boscombe Down.  Stayed for the weekend and as part of a busy weekend of training took Cadets from the Squadron flying an hour and flew over Jersey, Guernsey and Sark, some of the Cadets even spotted homes as they flew overhead!

Training Officer, Flt Lt Leighton Jenkins said "We are very grateful to the crew for coming to Jersey and allowing the Cadets to fly, for many this was the first opportunity they have had to fly in a military aircraft.  We have built-up a strong rapport with the Hercules fleet over the years and we are hoping that an aircraft will return later this year for some more good flying"

Article submitted by 

Flt Lt L Jenkins

No 7 Overseas (Jersey) Squadron

Wing Webmaster 19 January 2007

New Trophy for South West Region

 A new Trophy has been introduced to recognise the “Best Cadet” within the South West Region and the first cadet to receive “The Painter Trophy” was Instructor Cadet Warrant Officer John Sullivan (19) from Bournemouth, Dorset &Wiltshire Wing.

“CWO Sullivan has been with 130 (Oakmead College) Detached Flight since 2002, and has, participated in a wide range of activities collecting many awards during his time with the Squadron, but this latest achievement comes at a time when he is about to progress within the Air Training Corps as an Adult Sergeant, making it a very special, and timely award, ” commented Flying Officer Kevin Mitchell, Oakmead Flight Commander.

CWO Sullivan was the South West Regions representative, being listed for the coveted  Dacre Sword earlier this year.

John’s Record of achievement is never ending, listed here are just some of his achievements.
Gliding solo (0ct 2003), Best Cadet 130 Bournemouth Squadron (2004), Micro lighting Scholarship (Oct 2004), Junior Leaders Graduation (2005), Millennium Volunteers 200 hrs (2005), Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award (June 2005), Sports Leadership Award (Jun 2005), Basic Instructors Course (Oct 2005), Flying Scholarship Solo (2006) and Lord Lieutenants Cadet for Dorset 2005/6

Article submitted by 

Fg Off K Mitchell

OC 130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight

Wing Webmaster 17 December 2006

Community Service Volunteers 

For the second year running Cadets from 130 (Oakmead College) DF have taken part in the annual Community Service Volunteers "Make a difference day" and are in the running for a cash prize.

Community Service Volunteers (CSV) creates opportunities for people to play an active part in the life of their community through volunteering, training and community action.
Each year 164,000 people give 4.1 million hours of their time as volunteers through CSV.

Cadets from 130 (Oakmead College) Detached Flight took part again this year, continuing site clearance work at their local Scout Camp.

Fence painting and clearing of overgrown woodlands kept the cadets busy throughout the day and into the early evening.

"It was hard work but we had a lot of fun, meeting new people from the area", said Cadet Sergeant Cecelia Bolt (16).

"Many of the youngsters asked who we were so we took the opportunity to tell them about the Air Cadets", she added.

Since 2003 the cadets have committed themselves to various tasks, working closely with the local Scouting Association to provide a facility suitable for a wide range of youth groups

The cadets at Oakmead are registered as Community Volunteers and are to be considered for one of the CSV "Make a Difference Day" Awards, to be decided early in 2007.
The cadets from Oakmead missed out last year on the CSV Project Award worth £450,but are keeping their fingers crossed for a better result this year.

For further information on how your Squadron can take part next year visit www.csv.org.uk

Article submitted by 

Fg Off K Mitchell

OC 130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight

Wing Webmaster 17 December 2006

“Keeping it in the family”

Cadet Flight Sergeant Andrew Sullivan (17) of 130 Oakmead DF has succeeded his brother John as Lord Lieutenants Cadet for Dorset.

At a ceremony held at County Hall in Dorchester, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Mrs Valerie Lane-Fox Pitt- Rivers presented Andrew with his certificate and badge of office. She was very keen to talk to both cadets about their time with the Air Training Corps, congratulating Andrew on his achievements and wishing him well for the future.

“Andrew has been a cadet at Oakmead College since 2002 and has contributed greatly to Squadron and community activities. He thoroughly deserves this honour, and I am confident he will fulfill his duties to the highest standard,” said Oakmead Flight Commander, Flying Officer Kevin Mitchell.

Officer Commanding 130 Bournemouth Squadron Flight Lieutenant Mike Ashurst added, “ This is fantastic news for the Squadron and it is the third consecutive year that a cadet from Bournemouth has been selected for this post”.

Flight Sergeant Sullivan is currently attending Junior Leaders Course No.8 and hopes to graduate in 2007 and is planning a career with the Royal Marines.

Article submitted by 

Fg Off K Mitchell

OC 130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight

Wing Webmaster 10 December 2006

Cross Country Victory for Dorset & Wilts Wing

Cadets representing Dorset & Wiltshire Wing showed real determination and effort, competing in wet and muddy conditions at the South West Regional Cross Country Championships held at RAF Lyneham in Wiltshire.

Heavy rain earlier in the day made for a three mile test of endurance and a close finish in many of the categories but the team spirit and encouragement given by support staff was enough to give Dorset & Wiltshire Wing overall first place by the narrowest of margins, with Hants& Isle of Wight in second place with Bristol & Gloucester running in third.

Eight cadets from Dorset &Wiltshire Wing were selected to represent the South West Region at the Corps Competition at RAF College Cranwell in January 2007.

“All of the cadets performed well under difficult conditions and the staff are very proud of their achievements today,” said a very happy Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Steve Bidgood.

He went on to praise individual performances from Flt Sgt Kevin Jones (1011 Amesbury Sqn), Sgt Lisa Brereton (1304 Chippenham Sqn) and Cadet Matthew Bolt (130 Oakmead DF) who all performed well in their age groups.

South West Regional Commandant Gp Capt Mike Remlinger who was present to award the trophies thanked the staff and cadets, some of whom had traveled for many hours to get to the venue.

Article submitted by 

Fg Off K Mitchell

OC 130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight

Wing Webmaster 1 December 2006

130 (Bournemouth) Squadron Dining in Night

“Adult staff congratulated”

Following a successful presentation evening, staff and cadets from 130 Bournemouth Squadron gathered to welcome new Commanding Officer Flt Lt Mike Ashurst, and were honoured to have Squadron Leader Ray Pelcot and his wife Cathy join them for the weekend.

Squadron Leader Pelcot, Commanding Officer of the Adult Training Facility at RAF Cranwell and a former Air Cadet, spoke to cadets and guests about the adult staff who had influenced him when he was starting out on his career, and praised the standard and commitment of all the staff on the Squadron.

After thanking the cadets for a wonderful display at the presentation evening the night before, Squadron Leader Pelcot opened proceedings for the after dinner games with the cadets.

Article submitted by 

Fg Off K Mitchell

OC 130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight

Wing Webmaster 1 December 2006

Amesbury Air Cadets Praised By Commandant

Cadets of 1011 (Amesbury) Squadron have just had a VIP visit from Air Commodore Gordon Moulds, the Commandant of the Air Training Corps.

During his visit, the Air Commodore took the opportunity to sit in on some of the instructional classes, talked informally to cadets about their activities, and then explained some of the developments planned for the ATC.

Air Commodore Moulds, who is based at Royal Air Force Cranwell, took command of the Air Training Corps in October 2006, and this was one of the first in a series of visits he is making to squadrons throughout the country.

The Air Commodore was welcomed by the squadron’s commanding officer, Flight Lieutenant Dave Berryman, and the officer commanding Dorset & Wilts Wing ATC, Wing Commander Phillip Cubitt.

“I have been most impressed by the smartness and enthusiasm of the cadets,” said Air Commodore Moulds, “and I must also commend the staff for all the hard work that goes into running a successful unit such as this”.

Flt Lt Roger Starling RAFVR (T)
Media & Communications Officer
Dorset & Wilts Wing ATC

Wing Webmaster 26 November 2006

Swindon Air Cadets Fly High (And Low...)

A party of 25 air cadets from 1244 (Swindon) Squadron paid a visit to 27 Squadron RAF Odiham on Monday 23 Oct to experience first-hand operational flying in one of the RAF’s most well-known front-line helicopters, the Chinook.

It was an early start for the local guys and gals, who met at their HQ in Upham Road at 7.30am – many of their contemporaries were enjoying a lie-in at the start of the half-term holiday.  However, there was a 100% turn-out and no-one was late for this unique experience.  On arrival at RAF Odiham, the party made their way to 27 Sqn HQ for a safety briefing by one of the crew, and for kitting out with helmets for the sortie. The aircraft took off at 10.30 and spent the first part of the sortie practising lifting and maneuvering with under slung loads including large guns and vehicles.  Then it was time for a low-level transit to practice tactical approaches to field landings.  This particularly amazed the cadets, to be inside such a large aircraft maneuvering sharply to produce impressive “G” forces and the distinctive “Wokka Wokka” noise of the Chinook as it twisted and turned to avoid the enemy!  Once the fun was over, it was back to RAF Odiham at medium level for the crew to practice their instrument flying, an immaculate landing and taxi in back to the squadron – 2 hours flew by, literally!

The whole experience was enjoyed by everyone, even those clutching the ominous grease-proof bags – which, incidentally, did remain empty but were a very sensible precaution!  Definitely worth getting up for, and thanks must go to all at 27 Sqn who were involved in the visit.

Article submitted by 

Mr B Ilett

Civilian Instructor

1244 (Swindon) Squadron
Wing Webmaster 3 November 2006

Bus pull raises £1,000

Cadets, staff and civilian committee members of 171 ( Christchurch ) Squadron recently organised a sponsored bus pull to raise money to buy more IT equipment.

Cadets pulled the 12.5 tonne double-decker Wilts & Dorset bus along the promenade from Bournemouth Pier to Boscombe Pier, and attracted a great deal of interest from holiday-makers.

The event was the idea of civilian instructor Steve Miller, who works for Wilts & Dorset buses, and was the result on months of planning.

“It was brilliant!” said commanding officer Flt Lt Phil Doughty, “The cadets thoroughly enjoyed themselves, we got good publicity, and we are on target to raise more than £1,000.”

Flt Lt Roger Starling RAFVR (T)
Media & Communications Officer
Dorset & Wilts Wing ATC

Wing Webmaster 25 October 2006

Nijmegen International Marches 1980 - 2006 Silver Anniversary Dinner

Calling all cadets and staff both past and present

Have you ever participated in or been involved with the Nijmegen International Marches during the past 25 years?

If so then please read on as this may be of interest to you!

This year, 2006 was the 25^th consecutive year of this Wing’s participation in the Nijmegen International Marches. It is believed (subject to final confirmation) that this year may actually have been the 26^th consecutive year.

It is to be noted that in the 1980’s the Wing was represented by Squadron Teams one of which was 1069 (Flight Refuelling) Squadron. However, we did not have military teams represented in every year. Again in the late 80’s and early 90’s we entered civilian teams and since the turn of the century we have entered both military and civilian teams.

To celebrate this Silver (or Silver plus one) Anniversary there will be a Dining in Night on Saturday 21 October 2006 at the Crown Hotel, Blandford Forum.

Please circulate this message to anyone you know who has been involved with the Nijmegen International Marches either civilian or military over the past years either as a marching participant, support staff etc. Please pass on my e-mail address to anyone who may have participated over the past 25 years. 

Contact Squadron Leader D J Dunn direct for more information.

Places at the Dining in Night are limited so please respond as soon a possible.

Please state your rank and name together with the year of participation or the year that you played an active supporting roll.

e-mail           wsonmcdww@talktalk.net

                    nijadmgrdww@onetel.com

Sqn Ldr D J Dunn

WSO SE & NMC

Wing Webmaster 28 August 2006

90th Nijmegen Marches Cancelled

INFORMATION UPDATE 18 JULY 2006 AT 22.45 BST

Press communication 2006-24 

Nijmegen, 18 July 2006  

Four Days Marches 2006 cancelled

Because of the extreme weather circumstances, 2 deaths and many people falling ill, as well as the upcoming weather forecast, the Four Days Marches organization has decided to completely cancel this years event. This means there will be no start of the March tomorrow.  

ALL our cadets and staff are OK and the plan at present is that they will be staying in Nijmegen until Saturday as planned.

Sqn Ldr D J Dunn

WSO SE & NMC

Wing Webmaster 18 July 2006

Nijmegen International 4 day March Civilian Team

The civilian team members departed for Holland on Saturday 15 July 2006.

This year 7 personnel are participating in the marches.

Wing Webmaster 15 July 2006

Race for Life is a 5km race held at hundreds of venues over the country to raise money for breast cancer research.  The runners include those who’ve survived breast cancer or by friends and relatives in memory of those who haven’t.  It is sponsored by Tesco and run by Cancer Research UK.  Our task was to help set up the race which took place in Marlborough and give out the freebies.

The day started at about 07:30 when everybody arrived and we were told what we would be doing that day.  At about 08:00 we were opening the boxes of goodie bags, sets of water bottles and packets of medals for the contestants.  After all the setting up we waited for the race to start.  During this time we went to get lunch and watch all the contestants and spectators arrive including Gilbert the Alligator from the Gazette & Herald newspaper and GWR FM’s Howard Jones (Presenter) and Black Thunder Crew.

Just before the race the contestants took part in a warm-up session.  After that the contestants began the anxious wait for the start of the race.  It was about 11:15-11:30 when the contestants came back to the finish line and that’s when we set about our tasks, which were handing out medals, goodie bags, water and plastic GWR bottles.  During the time when most of the 1500 contestants were coming through the funnels we received help from GWR’s Black Thunder Crew.  It was near the end of the day when we found we didn’t have enough plastic GWR bottles for everyone despite using about 5 boxes of them.

When the race ended and the contestants and spectators went home we set about taking apart the barriers taking the banners down.

Overall it was day enjoyed by all with warm weather and some good entertainment from GWR FM.

Article submitted by

Cadet Corporal Craig Still

2293 (Marlborough) Squadron

Wing Webmaster 8 July 2006

Nijmegen International 4 Day Marches 2006

The Wings Military Team was named recently. This year there are 17 personnel from Dorset/Wilts Wing plus 2 from Devon & Somerset Wing.

The team depart for The Netherlands on Friday 14 July 2006 in preparation for the 4 day (100 mile march) which starts on Tuesday 18 July in Nijmegen.

Wing Webmaster 8 July 2006

Air Cadets at TANKFEST

Sixteen cadets of 1069 (Flight Refuelling Wimborne) Squadron had a great opportunity to see tanks and armoured vehicles in action when they assisted with car marshalling at the recent TANKFEST held at the Bovington tank museum in Dorset .

Despite pouring rain, the event attracted a record number of visitors, and the cadets supervised the parking of over 2,000 vehicles.  Highlights of the day were the second appearance of the German Tiger tank, and the display by the WW2 re-enactment group.

1069 Squadron has helped out at previous displays, and so impressed the organisers that they now have a regular booking for the event, which is held every two years.

Article submitted by

Flt Lt Roger Starling RAFVR (T)
Media & Communications Officer

Wing Webmaster 2 July 2006

HMS Bristol visit 2006

The next weekend visit to HMS Bristol is 5 - 8 October 2006.

Initial information is being sent to Squadron & Detached Flight Commanders week commencing 26 June 2006.

For further information contact your Unit Commander.

Wing Webmaster 25 June 2006

Windermere Adventure Training Camp 9-16 September 2006

This years Windermere camp will be held on 9-16 September 2006.  Bid forms are now with units, and the closing date is the 30 June.  The week costs £70, which includes travel to and from the centre, food and accommodation plus all of the activities.  These include hillwalking, climbing & abseiling, mountain biking, kayaking/canoeing and either a ghyll or rock scramble.

The week is great fun, but it is not for the feint hearted.

If you wish to know more please contact Flt Lt D Butt WATTO.

Article submitted by

Flt Lt Darren Butt RAFVR (T)
Wing Adventure Training Technical Officer

Wing Webmaster 17 June 2006

Canoe and Kayak Training 2 - 6 September 2006

I bring news of a canoeing and kayaking week (2-6 Sept 2006) based from the National Air Cadets Adventure Training Centre (NACATC) a Windermere.

The week is being run by Flt Lt Martin Neate of Bristol/Gloucester Wing.  He has asked me if any one within Dorset/Wilts would be interested.

The course will offer training and assessment from basic/novice level right through to BCU-2 training and assessment.  Numbers are limited to 24 and a price is yet to be fixed.

If you or any of your staff are interested please contact me, or if you want to speak to Martin direct please get in touch, and I will let you have his details.

Article submitted by

Flt Lt Darren Butt RAFVR (T)
Wing Adventure Training Technical Officer

Wing Webmaster 14 May 2006

Getting wet in Wales

Special demonstrations organised by the fire section were one of the highlights of the Easter Camp at RAF St Athan for cadets from Dorset & Wilts Wing.
Other activities included a night exercise, flying, gliding, shooting, sports, section visits and a trip down the Big Pit mining museum.

For further information, please contact:

Article submitted by

Flt Lt Roger Starling RAFVR [T]
Corporate Communications Officer
Dorset & Wilts Wing ATC
14 Maple Close, Sandford, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 7QD
01929 553822

Wing Webmaster 14 May 2006

1244 (SWINDON) SQUADRON A.T.C WINS WINGS TROPHY

On Wednesday 22^nd of March the Chairman of the Swindon and District Branch of R.A.F.A, Mr Dave Porter and the Brach Treasurer and Wings Appeal Coordinator, Mr Bob Curzon, Presented 1244 (Swindon) Squadron A.T.C with the wings trophy.

The trophy is an award annually to the Squadron who raises the most money for the R.A.F.A Wings Appeal, in the Dorset and Wiltshire, Tames Valley and Gloucestershire areas.

This was the first time the squadron has won this trophy since 1988 and it is good to have it back with us!

Our achievement was made possible thanks to a number of cadets and staff giving up their Saturday morning to attend the a local retail park in Swindon, armed with collecting tins to raise the money from the general public.

As well as helping to raise valuable funds for R.A.F.A, The Squadron is now looking forward to defending the title, during this years Wings Week.

Article submitted by

Flt Lt Becky Harrison
OC 1244 (Swindon) Sqn

Wing Webmaster

RAF WARMA 2 day March 22 - 23 April 2006 

All but one cadet who suffered an injury at the 3rd check point on day 2 completed the 50 mile march.

This march is a qualifying march for participation in the 4 day International march which is held annually in the Netherlands.

The participants are listed here in alphabetical order.

WSO SE/NMC

Wing Webmaster 24 April 2006

Advance dates notification

Advance notification of the following dates which are subject to final confirmation.

Wing Training Day - Sunday 24 September 2006

Region Training Day - Sunday 1 October 2006

ATC Sunday Parades 2007

Wiltshire - Sunday 4 February 2007 - venue TBA

Dorset - Sunday 11 February 2007 - venue TBA

The above dates will be included in the next Calendar update.

Wing Webmaster 1 March 2006

BTEC workshop success

Cadets from all services came together to complete their Individual Vocational assignments during a workshop held at Tilshead in Wiltshire.

As part of their BTEC First Diploma in Public Services cadets have to complete an assignment set by the Edexcel Examining Board in conjunction with the Cadet Training Centre, Frimley Park.

Staff were on hand to guide the cadets through their assignments and provide information for the new cadets who are about start the course.

The workshop organised by Wing BTEC Officer Flt Lt C Seaward, took cadets step by step through the requirements, and involved group discussions and tape recorded interview sessions, which will be used in cadet portfolio evidence, and will count towards their final marks.

“I gained a lot of useful information from the weekend and enjoyed meeting the other Cadets from the different services,” commented Cdt Sgt Andrew Sullivan (16) from Oakmead College DF.

“My brother is doing the Diploma already and suggested I attend to judge for myself the amount of work that was involved. Most of the ATC studies I do already count towards a final grading, so with a little extra time and effort a good qualification is achievable and will look good on my CV,” he added.

Article submitted by

Fg Off K Mitchell
130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight

Wing Webmaster 1 March 2006

Low Flying “Arrows”

The “arrows” were flying over Bournemouth for the second time this year, and fortunately they stayed closer to the ground!

Cadets and staff from130 (Oakmead College) DF took part in an organised Archery Competition at their local outdoor activity centre.

Fully qualified Archery instructors were on hand for a course of instruction followed by a practice session, culminating in the main event!

The Adult Staff were confident that they would clean up in the “seniors” competition, fielding a team who narrowly missed out on becoming extras in the blockbuster movie “Robin Hood Prince of Thieves!”

Captained by Flight Commander Mike “Tuck” Toulouse, things didn’t really go to plan and having dispatched seven squirrels, two hedgehogs and an instructor, it was left to Cadet Sgt Tim Barnes to prevent a complete loss of dignity.

The younger cadets faired well though with Cdt Ben Prior (14) taking first place in the Under 15 Competition and Cdt Sam Budgeon (15) really on top form, winning the Over 15 group and overall first place.

Any Squadrons interested in having an Archery Event can contact Fg Off Kevin Mitchell at 130 (Oakmead) DF

Article submitted by

Fg Off K Mitchell
130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight

Wing Webmaster 1 March 2006

RECORD ATTENDANCE AT NCO COURSES

A record sixty seven cadets from Dorset & Wilts Wing attended Junior and Senior NCO courses held at Knook Camp from 10th-12th February.

Two Junior NCO courses and one Senior NCO course were held simultaneously, making this the biggest training weekend ever held in the Wing.

Twenty adult staff were on hand to deliver the training, which included problem solving exercises; presentation technique; group discussions; leadership exercises; dress regulations; communications; working with teams; the role of the NCO; and drill.
Course Commander, Squadron Leader Sarah Hackshall said, "This was very much an experiment, and I am delighted that it has been so successful".  I would encourage all Dorset & Wilts NCOs to book places on future courses.

Article submitted by

Flt Lt R Starling

Dorset/Wilts Wing CCO

Wing Webmaster 1 March 2006

ATC Sunday Parade - Salisbury - Sunday 5 February 2006

400 cadets representing Squadrons throughout Dorset  & Wiltshire attended the ATC Sunday parade held in Salisbury on the 5th February to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Air Training Corps.
 

The Reviewing Officer was Air Commodore D I Harrison, Officer Commanding the Air Cadet Organisation.  He was accompanied by the Mayor of Salisbury and the Lord Lieutenants and High Sheriffs of both Wiltshire and Dorset.
 

The parade, which was under the command of Wing Commander Phillip Cubitt, Officer Commanding Dorset & Wiltshire Wing ATC, was one of the biggest gatherings of young people in Salisbury for many years, and attracted a great deal of public interest.

The cadets marched from the central car park to Salisbury Cathedral for a service at 12.00pm.  The Band of the Army Air Corps, who also provided the music in the Cathedral, led the parade.

This year the host Squadron was 1010 (City of Salisbury), which is based in Salisbury, and was one of the first Air Cadet squadrons to be formed back in 1941.

Article submitted by

Flt Lt R Starling

Dorset/Wilts Wing CCO

Wing Webmaster 9 February 2006

ATC Sunday Parade - Salisbury - Sunday 5 February 2006

Dorset/Wiltshire Wing Air Cadets Paraded in Salisbury earlier today in commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the Air Training Corps.

In excess of 400 cadets and staff were on  parade, representing Squadrons from across both Counties.

The Salute was taken by the Air Officer Commanding Air Cadets who was accompanied by the Lord Lieutenants of both Wiltshire and Dorset together with the Mayor and High Sheriff of the City of Salisbury.

Further reports and photos will be available soon.

Wing Webmaster 5 February 2006

67 years - is this a record?

Gordon Faulkner, a member of the civilian committee of 149 ( Poole ) Squadron, has a connection with the Air Cadets going back 67 years.

Gordon joined the Poole Squadron of the Air Defence Cadet Corps in April 1939 as one of the first cadets.  In 1941, the Squadron became part of the newly formed Air Training Corps, and numbers increased rapidly.

Whilst still a cadet, he took on additional duties as an ARP messenger boy, and often had to cycle through the streets of Poole during air raids.

He has happy memories of air experience flying in Oxfords and Tiger Moths at Little Rissington, and also in the Sunderland flying boats that were based in Poole harbour.

Gordon rose to the rank of Flight Sergeant and, in 1942, joined the Royal Air Force and trained as a wireless operator.

Now aged 81, he is still in touch with his old squadron as the RAFA representative on the Civilian Committee.  The Air Training Corps has been part of my life for over 60 years, and I am pleased to see that the cadets of today still enjoy the flying; gliding and shooting that were popular when I was a cadet? says Gordon.

Article submitted by

Flt Lt R Starling

Dorset/Wilts Wing CCO

Wing Webmaster 29 January 2006

Nijmegen training has begun!

The South part of the Wing was at Wimborne for the first training session on Sunday (8 January 2006) in the build up to the 4-day march in July 2006. It was a soggy start due to the rain, however spirits were kept high with some singing and the supply of WO Shearer's party rings. The scheduled 15 miles were curtailed due to the weather conditions, which meant that we had to rely on a 'short-cut' provided by Fg Off Toulouse's map reading skills, or blind luck depending upon who you ask!

Everyone finished the 12 mile walk a little damp and bedraggled, apart from me in my extra large waterproof (or '18 man tarpaulin', as it was christened) and there were only a few minor blisters to report, so everyone is raring to go for the next session!

It is still not too late to join in. The next qualifying training session will be held at Wareham on Sunday the 15th January. Fg Off Toulouse has promised better weather and WO Shearer more party rings!

To get involved just contact Squadron Leader Dunn by e-mail wsonmcdww@talktalk.net or Fg Off Toulouse at 130 Squadron or speak to somebody at your squadron about Nijmegen.

See you there!

Article submitted by

N Hark CI
130 (Bournemouth) Squadron

Training has also commenced in the Northern part of the Wing. The first march was at Chippenham on Sunday 8 January in very cold but dry weather conditions, the rains fell just as they were finishing – lucky them!

The next training marches in Wiltshire are Saturday 14 January at Swindon and Sunday 15 January at Melksham.

WSO NMC

Wing Webmaster 9 January 2006

Nijmegen training 8 January 2006

SW Region Female Sports Cadet of 2005

Cdt Cpl Viv Sherry from 2391 (Parkstone) Squadron was recently announced as Dorset / Wilts Wing Sports Cadet of the year 2005.  A few weeks later she was surprised when presented with the trophy for SW Region Female Sports Cadet 2005.

Viv participates in any Corps sport that allows female participation and has gained Corps Blues and medals.
Her sports activities extend beyond the ATC as she has county qualifying times and swims 3 times a week for her club, she also teaches swimming
and helps coach trampolining. This year Viv also gained her national pool life guarding qualification and is currently studying for a BTEC
National Diploma in Sport (outdoor education).

Viv has also become a regular on the rifle range where she has represented the Squadron at Wing and Corps level to gain a Corps Blue in small bore rifle shooting.

Article submitted by

Warrant Officer K Child

2391 (Parkstone) Squadron 

Wing Webmaster 27 November  2005

"Bournemouth cadet honoured”

Cadet WO John Sullivan (18) has been chosen as Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Dorset, and at an awards ceremony held at County Hall in Dorchester HM Lord Lieutenant Captain M Fulford Dobson presented him with his certificate.

The award was the culmination of a wonderful week for John, a cadet with 130 (Oakmead College) DF, having successfully passed his Cadet WO Board Interview and attended a Basic Instructors Course at Rudloe Manor.

Having joined the Air Cadets four years ago it has been remarkable the choice of activities that have been offered to me and I have always tried to fit in as many as possible, Said John, Being chosen for this position is a fantastic honour, and I am looking forward to the variety of activities and responsibilities, he added.

John has shown consistent commitment and effort on a personal level, while supporting the staff and cadets on his squadron, and thoroughly deserves this recognition, commented a squadron spokesperson.

Record of achievement

Best Cadet 130 Oakmead DF 2002, GS solo 0ct 2003, Best Cadet 130 Bournemouth Sqn 2004 Micro lighting Scholarship Oct 2004, Junior Leaders Graduation 2005, Millennium Volunteers 200 hrs 2005, Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award June 2005, Sports Leadership Award Jun 2005, Cadet Warrant Officer Oct 2005, Basic Instructors Course Oct 2005,1st place Aviation Art Wing / Regional Competitions.

Article submitted by

Fg Off K Mitchell RAFVR (T)

130 (Oakmead) Detached Flight  

Wing Webmaster 16 November  2005

Success for Salisbury Air Cadets

Cadets from 1010 (City of Salisbury) Squadron Air Training Corps are celebrating after picking up numerous awards at their annual Training day held at MOD Boscombe Down.  Among the awards collected on Sunday were certificates and trophies for Aircraft Recognition, Swimming and Inter-Squadron sporting achievements over the past year.  The highlight of these awards was the presentation of the Ian Fellows Memorial Trophy for Wing Efficiency. This trophy is awarded annually to the Squadron, which undertakes the most Wing events. These include attendance at Adventure Training camps, examinations, representing the Squadron and Wing at different sporting events and attendance at the Annual Wing Training Day.

Flight Lieutenant Stuart Hodgson; Officer Commanding 1010 (Salisbury) Squadron was delighted at the presentation of this award. He said "The winning of this Trophy shows the determination and enthusiasm of the cadets to go out and participate in the many and varied activities the Air Training Corps had to offer. They should be proud of this achievement.  This shows that the young people are prepared to go out there and achieve something for themselves.

This award is also a thank you to the staff of the Squadron who provide the training to the cadets to enable them to go out there and do these different events. The Air Training Corps is an organisation which offers many different activities to cadets who are willing to put themselves out and try something, this award proves that cadets from Salisbury are ready and willing to go and accept the challenges that are out there for them to take."

Article submitted by

Flt Lt S Hodgson RAFVR (T)

OC (1010) City of Salisbury Squadron  

Wing Webmaster 30 October  2005