Air Cadets paraded through Woodbridge to mark the 70th anniversary of the squadron and of the Air Training Corps.

Members of 432 (Woodbridge) Squadron Air Training Corps were supported on the parade by Leiston Royal British Legion Band and 356 (Felixstowe) Squadron Air Cadets.

A total of 48 cadets and staff from Woodbridge Squadron marched down the Thoroughfare and up to Market Hill.

Flight Lieutenant Simon Turner, Commanding Officer 432 Sqn, was delighted with the turnout and the support shown by members of the public. He said: “I wish to thank the Royal British Legion Band and the cadets from both squadrons for supporting the parade and showing everyone how professional young people can be. I am extremely proud of them all.”

Following the parade, an awards presentation highlighted the achievements of the cadets over the past year. This year’s winners were Sergeant Brendan Turner for adventure training, Corporal Richard Spindley, who took the community award, Cadet Michael Wittgreffe for fieldcraft, Cdt Philip Parish for flying, Cpl Robert Yearling fro shooting, Sgt Sam Whalesby for sports, Cdt Daniel Philips, who was named best new cadet, and the best overall cadet award went to Sgt Charlotte Allum.

The parade came less than two weeks after Woodbridge honoured members of 23 Engineer Regiment (Air Assault) after their return from a six month tour of Afghanistan.

The regiment, based at Woodbridge’s Rock Barracks, exercised its freedom of the town by marching with swords drawn, bayonets fixed, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying, from Station Road to Market Hill, where a traditional Drumhead Service followed before a civic reception in the Shire Hall.

The cadets also concluded their parade with by observing a short outdoor service conducted by Reverend Canon Ron Tuck, Norfolk and Suffolk Wing Padre, who read a short sermon and led the congregated public and cadets in a few hymns.

Founded in 1941, the air cadet movement has more than 40000 members, aged 13 to 20, in more than 900 squadrons throughout the UK.

The cadets take part in many indoor and outdoor activities, with the emphasis on flying and gliding, while also working as part of a team.

The squadron meets on Wednesday evenings at the Drill Hall in Woodbridge.

For further information contact Flt Lt Simon Turner on 01394 610986 or visit www.432sqn.org.uk.