Weekly Lunchtime Meeting

Today's guest speaker was Wing Commander Tony Lark from the 866 Squadron of the Air Training Corps based at Immingham.

Donation

President Elect, John Clark presented Tony with a cheque for GBP250 as a contribution towards the activities undertaken by the cadets for the benefit of the community.  After thanking the club, Tony explained how the Corps came into existence and gave an overview of some of their activities.  

History

The Immingham branch was started in 1975 as flight of the Grimsby Air Cadets with 9 members, quickly expanding to between 20 and 30 cadets by 1977.  In 1978 the flight was designated 866 squadron, known as the Flying Vikings (866AD being the year that the Vikings invaded). Over the next 7 years the squadron went from strength to strength, winning many competitions and being named as the best in the UK in 1985.

Activities

The flying and service related activities of the Corps and the provision of uniforms is supported by the RAF.  However, the squadron relies on fund raising to support their community activities, including provision of transport to and musical instruments for the band.  Cadets are involved with conservation at the local church and participate in numerous public events such as the Armed Forces Day in Scunthorpe and Cleethorpes, the RAF at 100 Day and Immingham Festival.

Support for Veterans

During WW2, there were many wartime airfields in the region consequently the Immingham cadets are involved with numerous local memorial services and parades.  They also provide more direct help in fund-raising for the British Legion and in the past they have supported veterans visiting memorials in France.

Between the age of 12-20, cadets are able to learn about the principles of flight and receive qualifications as well as taking part in hands on flying and other service activities.  Some 5% of cadets may join the RAF but the corps is not seen as a recruitment channel.  

To find out more about the Air Training Corps visit their website at 

http://trentwingaircadets.org.uk/squadrons/866-immingham.php