A group of Shirley air cadets have been awarded a prize for being the smartest unit in the county.
The 1924 Squadron, based in The Vale, was thrilled to receive the Croydon Times Cup, a Surrey area competition, for its immaculate display of precision marching and turnout.
Their 12 man and one girl squad under the leadership of cadet warrant officer Ed O'Neill not only won a first place in standard drill but also second place in rifle arms drill.
The hard working and well organised squadron of boys and girls aged between 13 and 20, who meet each Monday and Friday evening, have also retained the prestigious Bray Trophy, awarded for all round skill in adventure training and self reliance.
They will soon be travelling to Pirbright to defend their holding of the air cadets South East Region drill trophy.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Karl Bartle from Croydon, demonstrated "great skill, determination and a fierce competitive spirit" at an army challenge day held at the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich recently.
Karl joined 16-24-year-olds from across London to compete for a once in a life time opportunity to accompany the British Army on exercise in Gibraltar.
Participants, divided into teams of six, were lead through a variety of army exercises designed to test their physical and mental abilities.
Karl commented "I decided to enter the army challenge as I want to test my stamina and physical fitness to the limits the gun run certainly did that!"
Although this year he missed out on going to Gibraltar, he enjoyed the day and is thinking of joining the army.
"The challenge gave me a taste of army life before I make the full commitment," he said.
Contact Andrew Pache on 020 8654 0409 Mondays and Fridays for information on Shirley air cadets For information on army careers contact 020 7930 8603 or visit the website on:.
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