AWARD-WINNING air cadets from Chester helped to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the country’s cadet forces by taking part in a march through London to a royal garden party.

Chester’s own 610 Squadron ATC, based at Abbot’s Park, officially the best squadron in the country, joined up with cadets from all the armed services and the Combined Cadet Forces for the march from Horse Guards Parade down The Mall to Buckingham Palace.

The cadets and their guests then entered Buckingham Palace for the garden party, attended by the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, the Earl of Wessex, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and the Duke of Kent.

The Prince of Wales took the salute as the parade passed Clarence House.

The Chester squadron was invited by the chief of the defence staff to represent the North West and Wales region as current holders of the much coveted Sir Alan Lees Trophy for the best squadron in the country.

“The day was extremely memorable and the cadets were delighted to been honoured with this opportunity,” said Sallie Kelsey from the squadron.

To gain the trophy against nearly 1,000 squadrons, the cadets underwent two rigorous inspections by senior RAF officers.

The squadron, which has more than 100 cadets, meets twice a week to pursue activities such as aviation studies, public services, Duke of Edinburgh awards, music studies, outdoor adventure pursuits, drill, sports, first aid, summer camps and much more. It has a long list of community based achievements.

Those interested in joining can read all about the squadron at www.aircadetschester.com.