The weekend of 16th and 17th May was a busy one for 422 (Corby) Squadron, Royal Air Force Air Cadets.
On Saturday, 17 cadets assisted shoppers at the local Morrison’s Supermarket packing bags to raise funds towards the Squadron’s new tracksuits. Working throughout the day cadets were commended for their manners, professionalism and also their bag packing skills.
The cadets raised £690 and also an additional £80 for the local RAFA branch from a table top sale.
Sunday saw the cadets competing in the annual Wing Banner and Band competitions at RAF Wittering. Both the banner and band teams had been practicing tirelessly under the guidance of Flight Sergeant (ATC) Stuart Bayliss, Mr Stan Sheppard and Civilian Instructor Paul Wade.
The banner team put in a tremendous effort and looked very sharp on the day, improving their banner sequence markedly over last year’s results.
For the first time in the Squadron’s known history, they placed an entry in the Wing Band competition taking part in the percussion element of the event. Given the very short time the team had been together they practiced relentlessly putting in extra hours and even practicing at home.
Although the team were nervous about taking part, as soon as they marched into the judging area, the nerves soon disappeared and the team put in a sterling effort earing themselves a 5th place in percussion.
Commanding Officer of 422 (Corby) Squadron, Flight Lieutenant Kev Ritchie RAFVR(T) said, “Both teams should be very proud of the determination and teamwork they showed leading up to and on the day of both competitions. I would like to thank both the cadets and staff team for all their hard work leading up to both events. Their efforts really paid
off and I know they’re already starting to plan for next year’s events”.
But that’s not all that happened on Sunday. 10 cadets, 4 members of staff and 3 RAFA Ducks from the Squadron also took part in a 10 mile sponsored walk around Salcey Forest arranged by the Northampton Becket Rotary Club.
The event was split into 3, 6 and 10 mile routes and the Squadron were the only ones to take on the full 10 mile challenge.
The team had a fantastic time and even wanted to do the route again, but unfortunately will have to wait until next year.
The Squadron now look forward to a packed May Bank holiday where they will be assisting at the Rockingham International Horse Trials and the Lakelands Hospice Fun Day.