2448 (Poynton) Squadron Air Cadets was recently visited by local MP, David Rutley, in support of its call for more adult uniformed volunteers to help run and maintain this important local service for young people in and around Poynton.
The Squadron, which has been in existence for over 60 years and is part of the Greater Manchester Wing Air Cadets and is currently operating from the premises of the 236 (Bollington) Squadron.
It had to leave its home in Poynton earlier this year as a result of a lack of adult uniformed volunteers to help maintain its presence in the village. The Squadron has around twenty young cadets, all aged between 13 and 20, along with a smaller number of adult Leaders, who oversee the Squadron's varied programme of activities.
On his visit, David spoke with the adult Leaders and parents present, including Simon Brownbill, whose daughter is a member of the Squadron. They explained to David that there are many opportunities for adult volunteers to get involved, in a wide variety of roles, in supporting the exciting activities that the young cadets take part in, as well as helping to organise the Squadron's regular participation in annual Remembrance Day parades in Poynton.
David also spoke with the young people taking part in the programme and heard more from them about the many benefits they have enjoyed from being an Air Cadet. These include opportunities to experience new activities such as flying, gliding, target shooting, and class room activities, helping them to learn new skills that enable them to move through the rank and classification structure within the Squadron, starting as a junior cadet, and working up to Cadet Warrant Officer and becoming a Master Air cadet.
2448 (Poynton) Squadron currently meets every Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7.00 p.m. in the Bollington Air Cadet Headquarters on Shrigley Road, Bollington, SK10 5RD.
Any local adults who wish to volunteer with the Squadron, can express their interest by contacting: Victoria.rushton837@mod.gov.uk
Speaking after his visit, David said, "I was pleased to meet with members of Poynton Air Cadets, and to back it's call for more adult volunteers to get involved in helping to maintain this important and longstanding service for local young people in Poynton. It is clear that becoming an Air Cadet helps young people to gain vital life skills, building their confidence and making new friends at the same time. I hope more local adults interested in volunteering and making a difference for many young people will support this important programme, and look at how they can get involved."