2344 (Longbenton) Sqn

Longbenton Air Cadets joined with the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts to lead the St George's Day Celebrations in North Tyneside.

 

The event saw the coming together of children, young people, adult volunteers and families to parade through the streets of Whitley Bay and Cullercoates. The parade was led by the band of 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron as they braved the weather to proceed from The Quarry on The Braodway to St George's Church on the sea front.

 

Cadet Joe Mehaffey, 14, of Forest Hall, said "It was my first parade in the band and it was great to perform in front of so many people with all the banners and standards flying."

 

Squadron Chief of Staff; Flying Officer Dave Elliott said; "It was a good parade; despite the wind and rain, and it brought communities from across the borough together to celebrate, not only St George's Day but the achievements of each individual volunteer; young and old." "We should all be justifiably proud of the work done by our voluntary youth groups and it was an occasion to showcase their talent."

 

St George is the patron saint of England. He's popularly identified with England and English ideas of honour, bravery and gallantry. Very little is known about the real St George - Pope Gelasius said that George is on the saints "whose names are rightly revernoed among us, but whose actions are known only to God."

 

Longbenton Air Cadet Band members joined forces with the Black Watch Army Cadet Force to perform at a Diamond Jubilee Tattoo in Dundee.

The event saw the young air cadets, aged 13-19, join forces with the Black Watch band, including pipes and drums for a week's preparation camp before performing to crowds and local Lord Lieutenants and Lord Provost and previous producers of the Edinburgh Tattoo.

"It was an awesome week but we had to work very hard; starting early and finishing late, learning new pieces and a marching display" said tenor drummer Reece Thursby, 17, who attends St Mary's School.

The Longbenton band was asked to join the Black Watch by Colonel, Martin Passmore MA GCGI FRSA, who seen the band lead the Durham parade marking 70 years of the Air Cadets last October. The young people were made honoury members of the Black Watch by showing commitment and dedication; earning the red Hackle worn in the head-dress of the Black Watch. As a mark of respect and appreciation, the air cadets wore the Hackle when they performed with their new musical colleagues.

Cadet Sam Inns, 17, of Killingworth, said "It was an amazing experience to perform in a tattoo and we never thought we would ever get this kind of opportunity. It marked the Queen's Diamond Jubilee which has made it extra special," he added.

During the week, the young people also gained an insight into army cadet activities and in return, the Black Watch cadets underwent glider pilot training at the local air cadet volunteer gliding school.

Squadron boss Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said "The week was a huge success with young people from differing musical backgrounds working together with a common aim." "The final performance showed just how much effort and dedication went into the piece, and all involved should be very proud, and we're all looking forward to working with the Black Watch in the near future," added Gary.

For two cadets from the Longbenton Squadron, their week's training and tattoo performance earned them the Air Cadet Drummer's Proficiency badge which was presented by Colonel Passmore following the display. "I was really happy to earn the drummer's badge and it went on by brassard straight away" said Zack Wylie, 15. "I really enjoyed the week and we learned new pieces to add to our repertoire and also different ways to play the instrument" said Alexander Quinn, 15, of Killingworth, adding; "We've made some very good friends in the Black Watch and we hope to perform with them again soon."

Longbenton Air Cadets did their bit for Sport Relief by taking part in a six mile course at Newcastle / Gateshead Quayside raising almost £1000 for the cause.

The young people decided to the enter the six mile course on the back of the squadron's recent cross country success when they won the Wing Cross Country Championships for the first time in the squadron's history. 
More importantly, the young people took part to raise money for the Sport Relief charity. Sport Relief brings the entire nation together to get active, raise cash and change lives across the country and in some of the poorest parts of the world.

For Zack Wylie, 15, it was an incredible experience. "It was great fun; the sun was shining and the atmosphere was great" said Zack, "particularly at the finish with the crowds cheering and this helped me to beat our commanding officer on the finish line to be the first of us through!" 

18 year old Christopher Rushton, of Longbenton, added "I thought the end was great too because I knew I had finished!" "It was a challenging run but after seeing other people like John Bishop do their bit, we persevered and it was a great feeling knowing our effort has helped others in need," said Christopher.

Squadron Sports Officer, David Anderson said, "It was a great day had by all and the young people should be proud of completing the six mile and raising a good amount of sponsorship."
 

Longbenton Air Cadet, Flight Sergeant Daniel Dotchin has been appointed as Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant's Cadet for 2012.

The 17 year-old Longbenton Community College student was appointed as the Lord Lieutenant's Cadet for Tyne and Wear by Nigel Sherlock OBE at a ceremony held at Dykelands Road TA Centre, Seaham.

Daniel is the latest cadet from Longbenton Squadron to hold the prestigious position, and one that the squadron has held since 2010 when 18 year old Karl Dance, of Killingworth, received the accolade. Last year, Christopher Wilson, 17 of Forest Hall, was then awarded from over 1000 possible cadets and he has now handed the baton over to Daniel to score the Royal hat-trick. Daniel was successfully appointed through his hard work and commitment on the air cadet unit and personal qualities being recognised.

The Lord Lieutenant's Cadet attends functions with the Lord Lieutenant, who represents the Queen in the region at official engagements, and also greets Royalty and civic dignitaries when they visit the region. With the forthcoming Diamond Jubilee Celebrations Daniel is looking forward to performing his role.

"I am amazed at being awarded the Lords Lieutenant's Cadet and can't wait for my first engagement," said Daniel. "It is an honour to hold such a position and to have been successful and get three in a row for the squadron is a bonus."

Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutentant Gary Richardson said "I'm delighted that Daniel has been awarded with this appointment and know he will perform the role with professionalism and responsibility." "He has displayed good leadership skills and is a positive role model for young people and I look forward to see him performing his role over the coming year, added Gary."

Young people from 2344 (Longbenton) Air Cadets have enjoyed a visit from North Tyneside MP, Mary Glindon, following their recognition as the most improved squadron in Durham Northumberland Wing.

The cadets were celebrating Air Cadet Sunday which marks the formation of the air cadet movement in February 1941, when they were visited by the MP. Mrs Glindon joined the cadets last year to mark 70 years of the organisation and visited the cadets last summer where a House of Commons plaque was presented to represent the community's thanks for the work that the squadron does and the time it invests in helping young people grow and mature.

Last week we reported how the Longbenton Squadron's striking improvement over the past three years was recognised with the squadron being announced as the most improved out of the 35 squadrons throughout the Wing.

Mrs Glindon visited the cadets and staff saying "On my last visit, I said I was looking forward to seeing the cadets achieve many qualifications which would stand them in good stead for the future, and to hear of their recent achievements, and be here to present the qualifications, is an absolute pleasure and joy; I wish the squadron all the very best for the future."

Last year the squadron helped its young people to achieve a total of 46 BTEC Diplomas, 24 Duke of Edinburgh's Awards, and 9 gliding scholarships with its band performing for HM The Queen at Alnwick Royal Garden Party.

Mrs Glindon helped to get the year off to a flying start by presenting BTEC Awards in Aviation Studies and bronze and silver Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and officially welcoming new members into the squadron.

Cadet Daniel Horner, 15, of Benton, said "It's really good fun being an air cadet at Longbenton and it's great that we have so many different opportunities; from flying and gliding to learning an instrument, from learning DIY skills to navigation and campcraft; which help us get extra qualifications."

Squadron Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson, said "We have had a great start to the year and I am delighted that Mrs Glindon has joined us in our celebrations and shown her continued support." Gary added "We aim to continue to grow over the forthcoming year and continue to achieve; we're working on a great project here at Longbenton, enjoying a great amount of fun whilst enhancing the skills and employability of the young people within our community."

Air cadets from Longbenton swapped their aeroplanes for fire engines as they enjoyed a visit from fire-fighters from Newcastle North Fire Station.

The cadets gained an insight into the various roles that the Fire Service plays in serving the people of Tyne and Wear and gained a first hand practical experience into basic fire and rescue principles and got a tour of two operational fire appliances.

The youngsters were given safety lessons as part of the squadron's community engagement programme which saw then learn about fire prevention, safety awareness and staying safe. The fire-fighters explored several scenarios highlighting potential dangers with the cadets before explaining how to deal with those scenarios; before, after and during the event.

"It was an excellent evening" said Alicia Gardiner, 14 of Forest Hall. "We learnt what the tools were used for and how they worked and we also got to use some them" added Alicia.

Squadron Commander Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said, "We all know accidents happen but that sometimes they too, can be prevented. By engaging with the Fire and Rescue Service our young people learnt how to stay safe and how best to deal with what can be very dangerous situations." "It was a great learning experience and I thank the Fire and Rescue Service for providing this opportunity," added Gary.

Young air cadets from Longbenton joined veteran's, serving personnel, their loved ones, dignitaries, and the local community to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The cadets joined North Tyneisde MPs, Mary Glindon and Alan Campbell and Elected Mayor, Linda Arkley at the Jigsaw War Memorial in Killingworth to mark Armistace Day on 11 November before parading through the streets of Forest Hall and Benton on Remembrance Day.

This year's commerative events meant that little bit more to the youngsters, who have recently welcomed home from Afghanistan injured in action, ex-cadet and George Stephenson High School student, Duran Dawson, 21. The cadets have also been learning about the experiences of pilot and navigator, John Peters and John Nichol who were shot down in the first Gulf War.

Squadron Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said; "Welcoming home Duran has provided the cadets with a front line understanding of the sacrifices and consequences of war; and how that impacts upon families and life here in the UK."

The cadets have also been supporting this year's Poppy Appeal in support of the Royal British Legion. "The Poppy Appeal and Remembrance Parades let us show our appreciation and respect to those that paid the ultimate sacrifice and their families, and to say thank you to current personnel too" said Zack Wylie, 15, who laid the squadron's wreath during the Remembrance Service.

"They are all an example of courage and bravery and we have learnt a lot over recent weeks about that and how important it is to trust each other," added Hardit Parmar, 17.

Air Cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron commemorated the Battle of Britain by joining with veterans, serving personal from Royal Air Force Boulmer and the Regimental Band of the Royal Air Force and other air cadet units from across Tyneside.

The cadets were proud to be on the parade that celebrated Allied victory in the battle for air supremacy during the Second World War.

The cadets have recently learnt about the importance of the battle of Britain in 1940 and helped to raise almost £1000 for the Royal Air Force Association Wings Appeal by manning a store at Asda Benton and collecting in Newcastle City Centre.

It was 71 years ago that the battle of the British skies was fought and Britain was subjected to heavy air raids and the loss of lives.

To mark the 71st anniversary, the cadets took part in a parade and were inspected by Air Commodore Forster.

Cadet Graeme Spry, 14 of Longbenton said; "Those who took-off to go to war were really brave - the German Airforce had loads more aircraft than we did. Our pilots and ground crew were heroic and fearless. We owe them a lot for our freedom."

Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson, said, "The ceremony brought together many generations and it was pleasing to see the young people talking with veterans and current personnel and listening to their stories." Gary added, "The youngsters also got to tell the veteran's about what they get up to too".

Youngsters from 2344 (Longbenton) Air Cadets joined forces with Royal Air Force personnel from RAF Boulmer this week to engage in a fundraising assault.

The cadets were doing their bit to raise funds for this year's Royal Air Force Association (RAFA) Wings Appeal. The young people managed a stall at ASDA Benton alongside serving personnel selling merchandise, such as pin badges and wrist bands to generous shoppers, as well as handing-out balloons and paper aeroplanes to children.

Cadet Connor Price, 16 of Benton, said "It's important to raise money and support for RAFA because they look after our current personnel and those who used to serve. Those people have been prepared to die for us and we should do as much as we can to say thank you and help them and their families."

Syd Graham, the Chairman of the RAFA Newcastle Branch said "The cadets have done a marvellous job and as have the RAF Boulmer personnel and I thank them for generously giving their time and I also thank those who donate to us, particularly during such hard times."

The Wings Appeal is RAFA's main annual fundraising event. RAF personnel and their families dedicate their lives to their and our country. The RAFA's mission is simple; to ensure that that their sacrifice does not end in suffering, poverty or loneliness. Whether it's an injured airman fighting to get back onto his feet, a young daughter missing her parent away on overseas operations or a Second World War veteran needing a shoulder to lean on, they are there to help.

The Wings Appeal falls at a time when the country shows its respect and support to the veterans who fought when Britain was on the edge of being defeated in the Second World War. It was 71 years ago that the battle of the British skies was fought and Britain was subjected to heavy air raids and the loss of lives during the Battle of Britain.

There will be a parade on 25 September 2011 at Newcastle Civic Centre to mark the Battle of Britain, attended by RAF Personnel, air cadets from across the city.

If you would like donate to the Wings Appeal then please visit www.rafa.org.uk or for RAF Welfare Services contact 01904 870691.

Air Cadets of 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron swapped their flying suits for wigs and gowns as they gained an insight into the English justice system this week.

Magistrate, Mr Brian Rudderman, visited the cadets as part of the citizenship training offered on the squadron. He explained the role that the Magistrates' Court plays in society and how the court process works in practice.

The young people were given a lively presentation and took part in an exercise aimed at developing their undertanding. The cadets learnt about the criminal justice system and the different agencies responsible for the system and their roles.

Cadet Ross Baptist, 14, of Benton, said "It was a really good presentation and very interesting." "I didn't really know that much about the Court and the different processes but now I do and I'm looking forward to visiting the Court soon - it sounds a lot different than on T.V" added Ross.

Squadron Commander, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said; "Citizenship training plays an important part in our squadron development plan, which sees our young people learn key lessons in citizenship and the importance of society and community."

In the past, the youngsters have visited the police helicopter and had visits from local Neighbourhood Police Officers as part of their training. The cadets will now visit both the Magistrates' Court and Crown Court to see how the justice system works in practice.  

North Tyneside MP, Mary Glindon, has shown support this week to the young people of 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron.

We reported in early February that Mrs Glindon attended a ceremony with the air cadets to mark 70 years of the organisations existence. Now, the MP has visited the cadets in situ as she was treated to a tour of the squadron headquarters on Marquis Close, Benton.

The young people gave presentations on how they were able to achieve gliding scholarships by learning to fly and gave the MP an insight into other activities offered such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, BTEC Diplomas, weekends away, and leadership training. The cadets put on a number of practical demonstrations and the squadron band also performed its latest repertoire.

Mrs Glindon said; "The squadron provides high quality training to our young people and I learned a great deal from my visit." "The young people were very smart, full of confidence and happy and they should all be very proud of what they do and achieve, as I am very proud, to represent such positive young people."

Mrs Glindon also praised the squadron staff, who are all volunteers, and as a token of her gratitude and optimism the MP presented the squadron with a House of Commons plaque adding "the plaque represents the community's thanks for the work that the squadron does and the time it invests in helping our young people grow and mature." "I am looking forward to seeing the cadets achieve many qualifications which will stand them in good sead for the future, and I will support them every step of the way," added Mrs Glindon.

Cadet Andrew Corbett,14 of Killingworth, said; "It was really goo fun to have our MP at the squadron and show her what we really do - I showed her how we cook on our expeditions - and it's great that she enjoyed the visit and supports us."

Squadron Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson, said; "I am delighted that Mrs Glindon took the time to visit us to reinforce her support for our squadron and our young people."

Gary added; "The plaque that was kindly presented does not only show her support but is also symbolises that the people of North Tyneside appreciate and recognise our work."

Air Cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron were on parade to help Armed Forces Week take-off in North Tyneside. The young cadets not only joined veterans and dignitaries but were also on hand to celebrate Squadron Leader Tom Bargewell receive his veteran lapel badge.

The Armed Forces Day events provide an opportunity for the naion to show its support to the men and women who make up the Armed Forces Community. For the cadets it was a chance to show their appreciation to veterans within the community, including a gentleman who joined the Royal Air Force at RAF Longbenton in 1961 - where the cadet's have been based since 1956!

Tom Bargewell was just a teenager when he enrolled into service as a Ground Wireless Mechanic. He soon rose in the ranks serving in Borneo and then later with NATO in Belgium and Holland before earning a commission as a Flying Officer in the Engineer (Communications-Electronics) Branch in 1984.

Learning his trade at RAF Boulmer, Tom was soon moving up the rank structure serving in Germany and again with NATO in Italy, the USA, and Portugal before engaging in peacekeeping operations in Ygoslavia. In 1999 Tom took the opportunity on leaving the regular RAF to become a reservist and became the RAF careers liaison officer for the North-East of England. He is now the Wing Executive Officer for the Durham Northumberland Wing Air Cadets.

Tom said; "It is an honour to receive the veteran's badge as it shows that the immediate community value our contribution and I am delighted that the cadets from Longbenton were here to share the occassion with me."

Longbenton air cadet Joseph Hodgson, 13, was also on parade as his father received the veteran's badge. Paul Hodgson served in the RAF operating radar - defending the UK skies - based at RAF Boulmer and he also saw action during the Gulf War.

Joseph, who attends Longbenton Community College, said; "It was an honour to be part of the ceremony and meet with the men and women who have risked their lives for us. I hear so many stories from my dad too and it was great to see him get the badge," said Joseph.

Before the presentation of the badges, the cadets were on hand to help Elected Mayor Mrs Linda Arkley raise the Armed Forces Day flag. "The lapel badge and presentation ceremony is our way of showing how incredibly proud we are of our veterans and the service they have given to this country" said the Mayor.

The cadet's were too proud to me on the parade having recently been awarded a Lord Lieutenant's Certificate for raising over £4,000 for last year's Poppy Appeal - the most by any cadet unit in the North-East.

Longbenton Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson, said; "I am very proud of the young cadets who have performed their duties to a very high standard." Gary added, "Armed Forces Week brings together a number of generations from our community and allows us all to show our respect to the older men and women and pay tribute to them whilst showing we are thinking of those currently serving in very difficult circumstances."

Young people from North Tyneside joined veterans and R.A.F. personnel to raise funds for the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA).

Air Cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron and 346 (Tynemouth) Squadron joined forces to perform a musical display to entertain the crowds gathered at Rothbury House, Rothbury, Northumberland.  Rothbury House is situated to the west end of the village and is now owned and managed as a convalescent home by the Royal Air Forces Association.

Cadet Sam Inns, 16, of Killingworth said, "It was really good fun to perform to the crowds and show our appreciation." "It is important that we help to care for those who have been prepared to die for us" added Sam.

Syd Graham, the Chairman of the RAFA Newcastle Branch said "The cadets have done a marvellous job and we are all very thankful to them. We have been able to raise funds through the selfless generosity of the young cadets who have given their time to show their respect and support to veterans and current serving personnel."

RAF personnel and their families dedicate their lives to their country. The RAF Association's mission is simple; to ensure that that their sacrifice does not end in suffering, poverty or loneliness. Whether it's an injured airman fighting to get back onto his feet, a young daughter missing her parent away on overseas operations or a Second World War veteran needing a shoulder to lean on, they are there to help.
 
If you are interested in helping RAFA then please visit www.rafa.org.uk

To celebrate 70 years of the Air Cadet Organisation, 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron is holding a reunion for former cadets and staff of the squadron.

2011 marks 70 years since the air cadet movement first began in order to train young men to fly and maintain aircraft during the Second World War.

Today's air cadet organisation is quite different, having evolved into a unique voluntary youth organisation, offering young people opportunities to develop themselves, try new adventures and activities, and learn key lessons in citizenship and the importance of society.

The former members and their families are welcome to attend the event at the Squadron Headquarters on Marquis Close, Benton, from 6:00pm on Saturday 25 June 2011. In addition, ex-service personnel who served at R.A.F. Longbenton - the squadron being situated on the site of the old base - are also welcome to attend.  Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said, "We are celebrating serving our community over decades and I think it appropriate that we invite everyone from across the years to join our celebrations." "It would be superb if we can have people there spanning across each decade," Gary added.

Air Cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron have won the prestigious Cadets Cup for a record-breaking collection in last November's Poppy Appeal. In a special ceremony, a team of cadets received the trophy from the Lord Lieutenant for Tyne and Wear, Nigel Sherlock OBE. 

Last year the Longbenton cadets raised an impressive £2.888.43 for the Appeal - the most raised from amongst the cadet organisations in the North East of England.  This year, the cadets raised £4,504.40.

The Lord Lieutenant is the Queens representative in the North-East and was delighted to make the presentation. The Longbenton cadets beat stiff competition from every cadet unit in the North-East to win the trophy. During the November Poppy Appeal the cadets were out collecting at Silverlink Retail Park and raised the much needed funds.

"This is an inspirational amount and the cadets at 2344 Squadron should be rightly proud of their achievement" said Syd Graham, co-ordinator of the Appeal.

Cadet Georgina Cassidy, 17 of Benton, told us why the Poppy Appeal is so important "All of the money raised goes to helping families and relatives of service men and women in our area and I think it really helps to make a difference."

Two Longbenton volunteers have received a Certificate for Meritorious Service for their selfless commitment in helping young people from our community.

David Hutcheson, 27 of Killingworth, and Jimmy Jackson, 66 of Longbenton, received their Certificates for voluntary service as civilian instructors at 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron.

The Commandant's Certificate for Meritorious Service is a prestigious award which is a means of recognising service of outstanding merit which has been rendered beyond the normal demands of duty. All air cadet personnel are expected to conform to high standards of service and efficiency and advancement within the Corps is regarded as a normal reward for those individuals who are exceptionally hard working and efficient.

Consequently only services which are of absolutely outstanding merit are recognised. David has served on the squadron for a total of 14 years having too been a cadet on the unit for nine years and an adult volunteer for almost six years. David continues to give his free time helping and supporting the cadets and staff in his role as Training and Development Officer and recently gained his Basic Expedition Leaders Award so that he can lead the young cadets on expeditions as part of their Duke of Edinburgh's Award training. David said, "I'm delighted to have received the Commendation and it was certainly a surprise." "I thoroughly enjoy volunteering at Longebenton Squadron and seeing the youngsters gain big achievements that will help them in their future lives as the squadron helped me when I was a cadet." 

Jimmy has been involved in the cadets for over 15 years and during that time has taken a strong lead in the aerospace training provided and helping to raise charitable funds so that the squadron can provide such training. Jimmy has given up a large amount of his time including week days and weekends to take the cadets on activities. Jimmy said "I have an amazing time helping the air cadets, and enjoy watching them grow into fine young people, achieving many things, and going on to make a success of their lives."

Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said, "Both David and Jimmy have shown great enthusiasm, dedication, good humour and outstanding commitment and I am delighted that their positive attitude, guidance and citizenship skills have been recognised at such a prestigious level."

North Tyneside MP, Mary Glindon, was on hand to present the certificates. "I am honoured to present these prestigious awards to two most deserving people who have shown selfless commitment to encourage and motivate our local youth to positively develop" said Mrs Glindon.

The squadron works closely with local organisations to deliver a comprehensive citizenship training programme. The squadron has links with the Royal Air Force, the Royal British Legion Forest Hall Branch, the Royal Air Force Association, North Tyneside Sports Development Team, local schools, Police Community Support Officers, Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service, Royal National Lifeboat Institute.

PCs Sarah Reveley, Kay Lyon and CSO Tim Cousins attended our parade night and discussed issues including personal safety.

PC Reveley said: "We've built up a strong link with these teenagers as our officers regularly call in to talk to the young people.  This time we had a wide ranging discussion about how young people need to think about their safety and take responsibility for the consequences of their actions.  "We had good feedback from the squadron who took part in this lively debate.  These types of visits provide a good opportunity for officers to get to know people of all ages in our area and listen to the issues that matter to them."

Squadron commanding officer, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said: "The support from our community officers has helped the squadron and the cadets develop over the past year. This debate focused upon consequences and assisted the young people with not only their citizenship training, but also leadership development, to help the youngsters learn to be responsible young adults."

Cadet James Nealings, 15 of Westmoore, said "The debate was good fun and it made us realise that all of our actions and decisions have consequences, both good and bad, but not just for us for others around us too."

Young Air Cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron have been out collecting for this year's Poppy Appeal.

This year's theme emphasises the need to help the Afghan generation of the Armed Forces and their families - today and for the rest of their lives. Each year the nation expresses its unequivocal support for The Royal British Legion's charity work through the Poppy Appeal and last year cadets from Longbenton Squadron raised an impressive £2.888.43 for the Appeal - the most raised from amongst the cadet organisations in the North East of England.

The cadets will be out collecting for the Appeal during the weeks leading up to Remembrance Sunday which, this year, is on 14 November.  The cadets were out in force at the weekend selling poppies to shoppers at Silverlink Retail Park. For 16 year old Reece Fryer of Killingworth giving up his weekend to support the Poppy Appeal was the least he could do. "It is a very worthy cause" he said "one that makes me feel like I'm making a real contribution to society."

Reece will be on the annual Remembrance Parade with the rest of the Squadron on 14 November 2010 marching with veterans at 10:30am from the Ex-Serviceman's Club in Forest Hall to St. Bartholomew's Church in Benton where the Remembrance Service will take place.

Air Cadets from Longbenton have swapped their flying gloves for gardening gloves and entered the North Tyneside in Bloom competition. The youngsters have joined more than 180 people from across the borough in entering numerous categories in the competition.

The categories entered by the squadron include small garden, container and hanging basket display school or college, young gardeners and grow your own - which has seen the cadets grow their own vegetables.

As part of the gardening workshops, the youngsters have been learning about the Battle of Britain. It was 70 years ago that the battle of the British skies was fought and Britain was subjected to heavy air raids and the loss of lives. The British government, then led by Winston Churchill, encouraged civilians to do their bit and 'dig for victory' by growing their own vegetables. The cadets have learned how civilians coped during that time and as part of their training they've grown their own vegetables and entered into the North Tyneside in Bloom competition.

Cadet Corporal James Nealings, 15 of Westmore, said "It must have been bad enough to live during a war and losing loved one's but to have to grow your own food to help your own family eat and support the war effort must have been very scary." "It has been fun to learn how people lived then and to make our squadron look nice has been very rewarding - our peas and carrots tasted great too!" James added.

Judges have been out and about choosing their favourite entries and will provide feedback to the entrants and the winners will be invited to attend a glittering awards evening at Peter Barratt's Garden Centre, Gosforth.

Councillor Ed Hodson - the council cabinet minister for the environment - said "I'm delighted that there has been a record number of entrants for this year's competition. Having so many individuals, businesses and communities taking part really helps the borough look its best."

Squadron Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said, "This September will mark 70 years since the future of Britain was decided. To be able to add a small sense of realisation of what this entailed for not only the pilots but also the civilian population has given our youngsters a practical insight into how people lived and coped during the war years.

Local Air Cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron joined with veterans and dignitaries from across North Tyneside last week as part of the events for Armed Forces Week. 

The events provided an opportunity for the nation to show its support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community. The cadets helped to raise the Armed Forces Day Flag with the Mayor of North Tyneside, Mrs Linda Arkley at the start of the week before performing a musical repertoire at the Forest Hall Ex-Serviceman's Institute later in the week.

The cadet's were proud to be on the parade having recently welcomed home from Afghanistan ex-cadet Shaun Warren who is now a Coldstream Guard, and also recently being awarded a Lord Lieutenant's Certificate for raising almost £3,000 for last year's Poppy Appeal - the most by any cadet unit in the North East of England.

Cadet Connor Price, 14 who attends St Mary's Comprehensive School, said that "It was an honour to be part of the ceremony and meet with the men and women who have risked their lives for us."

Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson, said "The events brought a number of generations together from our community and allowed the youngsters to show their respect to the older men and women and pay tribute to them and to those that paid the ultimate sacrifice. "I am very proud of the cadets who performed to a very high standard."

The squadron band also performed as part of the occasion. Cadet Jonny Vickers, 15 of Killingworth, who sings in the squadron ensemble said "It was great that we had an opportunity to perform for the men and women who live near us and thank them for what they did and we got to thank some serving personnel too - I'm pleased they liked our performance."