Halstead's 1163 Squadron hold annual awards evening

The 1163 Squadron, based in Halstead, held its annual awards and presentation evening.

The Air Cadets is a youth organisation for young people aged between 12 and 19.

The 1163 Squadron Commander Flight Lieutenant Paul Davison, welcomes the guests, family and friends to the Annual Awards and Presentation evening (Image: N/A)

The group takes part in various events as well as extra-curricular activities.

Commanding Officer Paul Davies said: “Within the Air Training Corps there isn’t a day of the year you couldn’t be doing something.

The Chair of the Royal British Legion, Tony Jones presents to Corporal Harry Webb, the Robin Morgan Commemoration Shield for outstanding commitment and dedication (Image: N/A)

“There are three things we aim to do, to promote and encourage interest in aviation and the Royal Air Force, to provide training which will be useful in the services and civilian life, and to foster the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship.

“We have parade evenings, take part in the Duke of Edinburgh awards, we have sports and STEM activities.

“It is all about giving them competence and confidence to go out there and contribute in life.”

Halstead Mayor Jackie Pell addresses the audience and states how important the Air Cadets are to the town (Image: N/A)

The annual awards evening is to celebrate the achievements of members of the group.

Mr Davison said: “We invite as many local dignitaries as we can to ensure that connection, these included the Lord Lieutenant for Essex, Halstead mayor, Regional Commandant, the chair of the Halstead Royal British Legion and more.

"We also have friends and family come too.

The Essex Wing Chaplain, Michael Child enrols new recruits to the Squadron (Image: N/A)

“There is nothing better than the glow it gives to the individuals, squadron and community when you are able to mark people’s achievements and share that with everyone.

“It is a real feel-good factor and shows off that these people have achieved some great things.

The Lord Lieutenant for Essex, Jennifer Tolhurst thanks everyone for their energy and hard work in volunteering with the Air Cadets and for providing such a wonderful set of experiences and opportunities for the Cadets (Image: N/A)

“We have various awards such as best marksman, best sportsperson, aircraft recognition, commitment and dedication.

“We also have the top award which is awarded to the all-round best cadet.

Halstead Mayor Jackie Pell presents to Flight Sergeant Thomas Martin, the glass eagle Training Trophy for the cadet who has earnt the most points for participation in Squadron activities (Image: N/A)

“It was a lovely evening and well done to all members.”

The next event the Air Corps is holding is a recruitment open evening for its next intake.

Award winning cadets with their enrolment and first aid certificates (Image: N/A)

The event is on Monday, April 17. For more information, visit 1163atc.org.