Longbenton Air Cadets have received recognition from the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Sir Nigel Sherlock, having raised an impressive £2,888.43 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal last year – the most raised from amongst the cadet organisations in the region. The Air Cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) Squadron were out collecting for the Appeal during the weeks leading up to Remembrance Day back in November last year.

 

 

The collection meant that little bit more to the youngsters who had recently welcomed the Remembrance Parade Commander of Forest Hall, Major Bill Campbell, as their Squadron President, and had waved off ex-George Stephenson High School student, and now Coldstream Guard, Shaun Warren, 19, to Afghanistan.  

 

The cadets have always supported the Poppy Appeal and last year raised well over their aim of £1,000 for the Royal British Legion who organise the Appeal. The Certificate comes as the cadets prepare to support the Armed Forces Day events next month.                                                 

 

 

In recognition of the youngsters’ achievement, Mr Sid Graham, Chairman of the Newcastle Royal Air Force Association attended the squadron on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant to present the Lord Lieutenant’s Certificate to the cadets.

 

Sid said “The cadets did brilliant in collecting this amount and I am delighted to be presenting this certificate to a local squadron.” “Each individual cadet should be very proud of their achievement which is for a very and much needed cause.”

 

Cadet Dean Tweddle, 14 of Longbenton, said “We are very very happy at the amount raised because it is important that we help those who have been prepared to die for us, as well as remember those who did die.” Dean added, “We wanted to raise as much as we could, particularly for people who live in our communities.”

 

Squadron boss, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson said “It is extremely heart-warming that the squadron has been recognised at such a prestigious level for its support of our community.” “By raising much needed funds and receiving such recognition, the cadets should be extremely proud of themselves,” Gary added.  

 

If you’re interested in Longbenton Squadron, then you can visit the Squadron on any Tuesday or Friday evening from 7:00pm to 9:30pm situated on Marquis Close, Longbenton, NE12 9SB, just next to the DVLA Test Centre, or www.2344org.uk