224 (Hexham) Squadron attend 70th Anniversary Battle of Britain Parade

Cadet Jamie Whiteley laying the wreath


On Sunday 19th September cadets from 224 (Hexham) Squadron commemorated the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain at the Cenotaph in Hexham's Sele Park.
The parade lasted half an hour and was an opportunity for the cadets to remember those who sacrificed their lives to win the Battle of Britain, a turning point that prevented the invasion of Britain by Germany in World War Two.

Prayers were said for those who died and for those currently fighting before Adult Sergeant Jonathan Dunn played The Last Post on trumpet before a short silence. Three wreaths were laid by the Mayor of Hexham, a representative of the Royal Air Force Association (RAFA) and by Cadet Jamie Whiteley from 224 (Hexham) Squadron.

As part of the Battle of Britain weekend a team of cadets from the squadron collected money for the Battle of Britain Wings Appeal. The Wings Appeal is organised by the Royal Air Force Association in order to raise funds to provide support to both veterans and current serving personnel. Money raised this year is going to help provide serving overseas personnel the opportunity to call home for longer each month; boosting their morale and reassuring those at home.

Cadet Sergeant Anna Skentelbery who attended the parade said "It's a really important event, especially in Hexham where the turnout by the public is often small. We need to remember 'The Few' and the sacrifice they made for us; all the cadets are aware of the significance of the Battle of Britain and are always proud to participate in the parade."

Interested in aviation? The Air Training Corps welcomes young people aged between 13 and 17 who have a taste for adventure. 224 Squadron meets every Wednesday and Friday evening at the TA Centre, Hencotes, Hexham. Realise your potential; find out more at www.224hexhamaircadets.co.uk.