2344 (Longbenton) Sqn

Two lucky youngsters from North Tyneside swapped their lives in Longbenton for a taste of life in Cyprus with the Royal Air Force.

Both, Andrew Bull and Charlie Smith, had the opportunity to enjoy an action packed week with R.A.F personnel having been successful at interview for the once in a life-time experience.

The two 16 year olds, who are air cadets at 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron, were among only 10 air cadets from across the North of England to be selected for the week-long camp at R.A.F. Akrotiri.

R.A.F. Akrotiri is one of the few full-scale R.A.F. stations left outside the United Kingdom. The youngsters were able to learn first-hand how the base supports the defence of the UK and its operational commitments.

The programme of events allowed the cadets to meet the Station Commander and visit the U2 aircraft where they enjoyed the opportunity to follow the aircraft down the runway in the chase car!

"It was my first time abroad and I loved it!" explains Andrew; "it was mint!" "The U2 visit was very special as was having our own private show from the red arrows!"

A visit to the Red Arrows was enjoyed by all which saw the youngsters tour the aircraft and sit in the cock-pit. "We even got to watch the Red Arrows practice from the cliff tops, which meant that we were actually looking down on the planes as they were doing the aerobatics!" said Charlie. "Then after they had finished practising, we got to sit-in on their debrief and listen to them saying what needed to be done better - it all looked great from where we were standing though," she added.

Squadron Commander, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said; "Andrew and Charlie have had an incredible experience and learned so much from the opportunity that they did so well in earning." "It was a once in a life-time experience and I'm delighted that two of our team were able to enjoy Cyprus. I must thank RAFA and the base for their kind initiative," added Gary.

The camp was sponsored by the Royal Air Force Assciation (RAFA) to help engage with today's youth and help to engage and understand RAFA's aims. RAFA provide support to serving and ex-serving members of the R.A.F. and their families.  

As an air cadet at Longbenton Squadron, you will have the opportunity to visit RAF Stations across the UK and overseas. We have recently visited bases in north Scotland, the West-midlands, Wales, and London as well as Germany and Cyprus!

Whilst visiting the station, you experience life alongside regular RAF personnel, seeing what they do during the day and visiting the different sections of the base. You could spend time visiting a fighter squadron, a search and rescue squadron, the fire section or the catering flight. If you're interested in joining the RAF as a career, this would be a great way to find out what they do. There are also many opportunities for you to take part in such as flying, gliding, adventure training and sight-seeing.

We also run a weekend camp programme during the year at our local station, RAF Boulmer. This trip also includes a visit to No 202 Sqn - search and rescue helicopters.

Cadets in North Region also have the chance to spend weekend camps at RAF Linton on Ouse in North Yorkshire, where they stay at the Regional Activity Centre. There are a whole host of aerospace activities including flying, a chance to use the flight simulator and the training centre at RAF Linton on Ouse.