A HIGH flying squadron of air cadets is encouraging youngsters to join.

610 (City of Chester) Squadron, which meets on Tuesday and Friday evenings at the cadet training centre, Abbots Park, was officially the best Air Training Corps (ATC) Squadron in the country in 2009.

Teenagers from 13 upwards who join have the opportunity to learn to fly and glide, complete the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at every level, take part in and lead expeditions and to compete and excel in sport.

The squadron also offers overseas tours, the chance to become a target shooting marksman, to play an instrument in the squadron band and to be of service to the community

Cadets can also learn about aviation and aerospace, aviation and navigation skills and airmanship and map reading in order to gain a nationally recognised BTEC qualification.

There is an in house range for firing air rifles and practical activities include radio communications and flight simulator training.

The squadron points out the training corps is a disciplined military organisation and believes all cadets have the potential to become local, national and international youth ambassadors.

Newcomers are introduced to the squadron which adds:“Working your way through the ranks and being rewarded with promotions could be the biggest of your achievements yet”.

The squadron can be contacted at 610@aircadets.org