Longbenton Air Cadets happily swapped their parade shoes for walking boots to trek as they embarked on their expedition season; leaving their estates behind for the beautiful Northumberland Coastline and striking Cleveland Hills.
The 34 cadets were split into eight teams (“bubbles”) as they successfully trekked their way through the parks, forests, moors and beaches; taking in some of the most beautiful and historically significant sites in the North-East.
Following rigorous training sessions in County Durham, the Longbenton cadets tested their navigation, campcraft and teamwork skills as they trekked their way to attain their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Of the youngsters, who also undertook first aid training in preparation for the expedition, 12 have completed their Bronze DofE Award, while 11 have completed Silver and 10 Gold.
Cadet Finlay Atwell, 15, who has attained his Bronze DofE Award, said; “We were really excited to be getting out after being locked-down and then only being able to go to school for a long time. The Cleveland Hills were stunning and we were really lucky with the weather – it made it difficult to take a bad photo!”
As part of the expedition, the cadets enjoyed being able to assess risks, solve problems and develop their creativity.
“The view from Roseberry Topping was amazing,” added 14-year old Bryle Chatto. “It was just a trek to get up there, but the view was worth it!
“Captain Cook’s monument also gave incredible views but we did struggle when we came down from it, as we didn’t follow our bearing.
“We worked-out where we were on the map and how to safely get back on route, which is what we did,” said Bryle.
Cadet Corporal Morgan Campbell, 16, who has achieved her Silver DofE Award, added, “It was great fun being out independently in the hills, helping each other as we went; from getting a water bottle out the side zip for a teammate to putting the tent up and cooking.”
Going for gold, is Cadet Corporal Daniel Jackson, 17, who has enjoyed unforgettable experience. He said, “We had great weather, on the whole, which meant we had fantastic visibility as we trekked different environments.”
“Although we couldn’t get to The Lakes due to Covid-19 restrictions, we were able to trek along St Oswald’s Way, which gave us an insight into the 97 miles of local history – the castles, coastline, islands, river valleys, hills, villages, forests and moors.”
“It’s special to have trekked from Holy Island to Hadrian’s Wall and is definitely some to talk about when I receive my Gold Award at the palace,” added Daniel.
Squadron Officer Commanding, Flight Lieutenant Gary Richardson, was delighted with the expeditions “The young people showed grit, determination and ambition to complete their expeditions.
“As we haven’t been able to get out recently, the expedition was the final section of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for the cadets to undertake in order to complete their scheme.
“I’ve been tremendously impressed with the groups, who worked well together as individual teams and showed great humour, determination and resilience.
“I’m absolutely delighted that their hard work and effort led them to enjoy the experience, developing many life skills and we are all very proud of them for their achievement.
“I sincerely thank The Ulysses Trust and the RAF Charitable Trust for supporting our young people to enjoy this life-changing opportunity.”
The Ulysses Trust also wish to thank the generosity of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust for supporting this expedition. www.rafct.com
