Town Mayor Supports Air Cadet Award Presentation

The Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex Mr Peter Field and the Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Nigel Coltman were guests of honour at 249 Hailsham Millennium Squadron’s Annual Awards Presentation Evening on Thursday [2 July], to personally hand out some of the accolades to cadets who have worked hard to achieve goals throughout the past year.

Other guests of honour included Squadron Leader Aidan Forestall (East Sector Commander), Pilot Officer Peter Cornfield (East Sector Shooting Officer), representatives from the Royal Air Forces Association and the Royal British Legion Hailsham branches and cadet’s parents. Squadron Commanding Officer Flight Lieutenant Craig Thomson hosted the presentation.

Cadets were presented with a wide range of awards including Best Cadet, the Treasures Cup for Effort, the Chairman’s cup for sport, Best Attendance, Shooting achievements, Sports Flight, Navigation Awards, Radio Awards and Fundraising Activities.

Mayor Councillor Nigel Coltman presented the trophy for Best Sports Flight to Vampire Flight and the award for Best Cadet, which went to Cadet Sergeant Josh Mayell.

Councillor Coltman commended award winners, parents and everyone involved in the Squadron: “I was delighted to be invited along to present the cadets with their awards, and I was particularly pleased to have the opportunity to speak with the cadets and hear about the hard work that helped them achieve these prestigious awards.”

“The Air Training Corps is such a valuable organisation to have in the local community, providing worthwhile and exciting opportunities for young people and preparing them for later in life.”

“I wish to pass on my congratulations to all the cadets who were presented with trophies at the award ceremony. In fact, all the cadets have been outstanding this year — the 249 Hailsham (The Millennium) Squadron is always on top form and the cadets always give 100%.”

In his opening speech, Squadron Commanding Officer Flight Lieutenant Craig Thomson said: “The cadets have worked hard over the last year and thoroughly deserve the awards they have received. They are a wonderful group of young people and a pleasure to work with. My staff and I feel honoured to know and work with each and every one of them. He also commended the staff and Civilian committee for all their hard work and dedication to the squadron.”