Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty and Squadron-Leader-Ian-Marshall
Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty CBE, Commandant of the Air Cadets visited Alvaston last night (Thursday 10 May) to mark the official opening of 126 (City of Derby) Squadron’s Cadet Training Centre.
The event, which was held at the training facility on Curzon Lane in Derby, saw cadets showcase a
selection of activities including archery, a First Aid demonstration and flight simulator experience.
The ceremony, also saw guests tour the new training facility and have a chance to ask any questions they may have about the youth organisation.
Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty CBE officially declared the centre open by unveiling a plaque.
This was the first time that many of the adult volunteers and cadets who train in Derby had got the chance to welcome senior cadet representatives to their centre, so there was an air of excitement for all involved.
Cadets showed the Lord Lieutenant and the Air Commodore the First Aid skills they had learnt.
Senior adult volunteer Squadron Leader Ian Marshall MBE from 126 (City of Derby) Squadron explained: “The event was a huge success. Both our young people and adult volunteers enjoyed welcoming Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty to the centre and took pride in telling her all about our recent and forthcoming activity plans.”
Cadet Corporal Dominique Hardaker has been a cadet in Derby for five years. She said: “Cadets has transformed me in so many ways, it’s made me more confident and made me consider what I need to improve on.”
Cadet Corporal Eve Hanman explained: “There are so many things that you get to do at cadets, you get to fly, it gives you so much confidence it’s unbelievable.”
Martin Capewell, Head of Estates at East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, project managed the new training facility. He said: “I have been pleased to hear how the centre has been used so far and am confident the building will continue to be a hub of activity for years to come.”