Greg Hands MP visited 46F (Kensington) Squadron, Air Cadets at their headquarters in Brompton Road during one of their evening sessions. He was welcomed by eager cadets and proud volunteer staff led by Flight Lieutenant Chris Butler, who gave him a tour of their Squadron and showed him the activities they regularly get involved in such as flying, gliding, camping, rock climbing, canoeing and academic qualifications in Aviation Studies, Music and Public Services. Mr Hands enthusiastically tested the squadron’s flight simulator and recounted his time at the University Air Squadron. He enjoyed a drumming display by the Squadron’s Corps of Drums who have played at numerous events such as Remembrance Day, Queen’s Jubilee, Royal Hospital, Royal Albert Hall to name a few. Mr Hands met with young cadets aged 13 – 19, parents, youth workers and others who all expressed their support for this community led Squadron. “It’s a great place for teenagers to learn life skills and to do activities which are difficult to access in the inner city” said one parent. The evening rounded off with a formal parade, where Mr Hands kindly presented various awards and certificates, most notably eight Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards to the Cadets. There were also awards for First Aid and BTECs too. Mr Hands MP said that the Squadron was a “fantastic organisation” where the cadets and adult volunteers “donate their time and skills but most importantly their enthusiasm”. The Commanding Officer Flight Lieutentant Chris Butler, closed the parade by welcoming Mr Hands to 46F Squadron’s “family where generations of cadets have attended, many returning as adult volunteers to help with the new generation of Air Cadets”. The Squadron has spaces available for 13 – 15 year olds and is open on Monday and Friday evenings 7– 9pm. 020 7591 0146.