Three air cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) squadron swapped their parade shoes for walking boots to climb the summit of one of the highest peaks in the Pyrenees.Cadet Flight Sergeant Stephanie Robson, 19, Cadet Flight Sergeant Daniel Dotchin, 17, and Cadet Corporal Hardit Parmar were part of a team of eight cadets from Durham / Northumberland Wing to successfully climb to the summit of Pic du Canigou in the Eastern Pyrenees.
The youngsters had to undertake a rigorous interview process which involved completing a series of exercises aimed at testing their map reading skills, campcraft skills, first aid, fitness and leadership skills. They all showed great determination in being successful to be part of the team. The team then undertook further training together in order to prepare for the expedition of a lifetime.
It was Squadron Leader Will Close-Ash - who was involved in rescuing seven stricken Belgian climbers from the summit slopes back in 2008 - who led the expedition.
Stephanie, of Longbenton, said "It was an amazing experience and an unbelievable challenge." "I never thought I would have the opportunity to see such wonderful views," said Stephanie.
"It was just absolutely awesome" added Hardit; "We knew it wouldn't be an easy task and it was literally breathtaking; but to say we scaled the summit of the 2784m peak is amazing."
Will, from Wallsend, explained "The group spent a few days in the country acclimatizing by climbing some of the neighbouring 2000m peaks. As they prepared to climb the Canigou, they trekked to a mountain refuge high up on the slopes of the mountain."
Daniel, of Benton, said; "We had great weather all week and were very luck that on our summit day the weather remained fine." The team started their ascent at 0700 hours and were on the summit by 1300. "We are all so lucky to have opportunities like this and are all very thankful of our staff."
Longbenton Squadron boss was delighted with the expedition, "The young people showed grit and determination through the initial interview stages and I was absolutely delighted that their hard work and effort led them to the peak - we are all very proud of them for their achievement."
To see a video diary of the expedition please visit:- http://www.facebook.com/pages/2344-Longbenton-Air-Cadet-Squadron/130200970380651
