Two Neston Air Cadets have received Lord Lieutenant’s certificates of merit from David Briggs, Lord Lieutenant for Cheshire, at an awards ceremony at Chester Town Hall.

Cadet warrant officers Callum Reid and Natalie Fields were honoured at the annual presentation of the Lord Lieutenant’s Awards for Cheshire in the presence of family and guests.

During the ceremony, Mr Briggs also appointed 19-year-old Callum to provide ceremonial support to the lieutenancy over the coming year.

David Briggs presents his Lord-Lieutenant's Certificate of Merit to Cadet Warrant Officer Callum Reid

Callum joined Neston Air Cadets five years ago and has passed flying and gliding scholarships and gained BTEC diplomas in aviation studies and public services.

Callum’s crowning achievement was in 2013 when he graduated from the challenging headquarters’ Air Cadets junior leaders’ course and was also awarded the Burgundy Lanyard.

His outstanding efforts during the course were further recognised with an award from the John Thornton Young Achievers’ Foundation, which awarded him a bursary to travel to Nepal and trek to the Everest Base Camp.

Callum said: “It is an honour to be selected as the Deputy Lord Lieutenant’s cadet.

“This further enhances my achievements within the Air Cadets and I would like to thank all the staff at 2375 (Neston) Squadron who give up their time to ensure cadets can pursue their dreams and fulfil their potential.

“Being a cadet has given me many skills and qualifications that will be extremely useful in my future career.

“I look forward to carrying out my duties this year and to the opportunities it will provide.”

Mr Briggs also presented his Lord Lieutenant’s Certificate of Merit to Cadet Warrant Officer Natalie Fields.

Natalie joined the Air Training Corps five years ago and is described as an excellent role model for cadets both on her squadron and across Merseyside Wing.

Last year, Natalie was awarded the Dacre Brooch by Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, Commandant Air Cadets, for being selected as the best female cadet in the Air Training Corps from over 10,000 female cadets in the organisation.

A keen sportswoman, she has participated in several wing and regional competitions and has also achieved her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Natalie said: “It’s been a roller-coaster of a year.

“Being awarded the Dacre Brooch was something I never dreamed of.

“I always say to other cadets that you only get out of something what you put in and I encourage them to make the most of everything the Air Training Corps can offer.

“I’ve had some fantastic times, fulfilling many dreams.

“I’ve flown a plane solo, travelled to Cyprus, Gibraltar and Germany, represented my country in the International Air Cadet Exchange in The Netherlands and met HRH Prince Phillip at St James’ Palace when I received my Gold DofE Award.

“Receiving The Lord Lieutenant’s Certificate of Merit has just put the icing on the cake and after hearing the citations of all the other recipients I am honoured and humbled.

“I’d like to say thank you to all the adult volunteers, without their dedication, none of us would be here today.”

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