The centre of Cambridgeshire’s largest town, St Neots, was closed to traffic on a busy Saturday, (14th October) in order that the Town could show it’s pride and appreciation in the Town’s Air Cadet Squadron by conferring on the Squadron the Freedom of the Town.
The squadron, 2500 (St Neots) of the RAF Air Cadets, proudly marched through the town behind the squadron’s drummers and supported by other local squadrons to form up in the Market Place.
In the Market Place the cadets were inspected by a Deputy Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire and the Town’s Mayor, Councillor Derek Giles.
After the inspection and a short service, the Mayor spoke of the squadrons work within the local community saying; “I am proud of the squadron’s long association with the Town and of their dedication spanning nearly 40 years. They have always been there to help with any task asked of them which has been much appreciated. My Son joined 2500, and the went on to join the Royal Air Force. We applaud the efforts the Cadets and Staff make. The parents should also share this honour. 2500 are dear to our hearts and we are delighted to have them exercise their right to march through the town”.
WO Glen Martin receives the scroll for Town Mayor, Cllr Derek Giles
On behalf of the Squadron, Officer in Charge, Warrant Officer Glen Martin, received the framed Freedom Scroll which was then handed to two of the squadron’s cadets before Warrant Officer Martin replied to the Mayor and the Council giving, on behalf of the Squadron, thanks for bestowing this honour. He also made the gathered townsfolk aware that the squadron as it is now is the result of the hard work of all the volunteers who had been associated with 2500 since its beginning.
The Parade then marched off and, with the
Cadets Paige Stamford and Liam Myrdal carry the Scroll at the head of the parade.
Freedom Scroll proudly carried by cadets Paige Stamford and Liam Myrdal at it’s head, were applauded as they paid compliments to the dignitaries and progressed through the town to a reception kindly provided by the Council.
“it was the outstanding highlight of my cadet career” said Paige and Liam added “I have never been prouder to be part of this Squadron than I am today”.
Summing up, Warrant Officer Glen Martin expressed his feelings; “It has been a great day for 2500 (St Neots) Squadron, and I am so proud of 2500 and the support offered by the Western Sector squadrons. Today was tremendous. I also offer my grateful thanks to the fantastic support we have had from the Mayor and Town Council”.
To put the honour into perspective, it is only recently that the Royal Anglian Regiment had the same honour bestowed by the Town.