Auction for re-opened air cadets squadron
Thurston RAF Air Cadets recently flew with the search and rescue helicopter at 22 SAR Squadron, RAF Wattisham. - Credit: Contributed
An air cadets group which is effectively “starting from scratch” is appealing for people to bid in an online auction to raise funds for activities and equipment.
Parents came together to get the 863 (Thurston) Squadron Air Training Corps back up and running after it closed for four months last year.
As the squadron is effectively starting over again – and was even left without a minibus – it is “desperately trying to raise funds,” Clare Jacobs, media and communications officer for the group, said.
The squadron has just taken delivery of a second-hand minibus thanks to a private donation of £10,000 – the group funded the remaining balance – and is launching an online auction to raise cash for running costs.
The auction prizes include a VIP box at Ipswich Town Football Club, dinner in BT Tower and a signed Mary Berry cookery book.
Mrs Jacobs said the squadron’s future is looking bright “as long as we can raise the funds”.
“Obviously now we need to continue to raise funds for cadet activities, things like outdoor weather gear, and be able to take the cadets away for training and entering various competitions and things.”
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The squadron was closed down last year following a break down in relations between the RAF Air training Corps and the former Thurston Air Cadets’ civilian committee. It was re-opened under the leadership of a new commanding officer and there is also a newly-elected civilian committee.
To bid in the auction, which closes on December 7, visit www.jumblebee.co.uk/863 fundrasingauction
To get involved with the squadron, which currently has about 30 cadets on its books, contact 01359 232943.
