Abingdonian 2018

32 The Abingdonian CCF Another hugely successful year has seen Abingdon CCF grow in stature within the Brigade and this was reflected in an outstanding, albeit very damp, Easter Camp conducted at Longmoor Training Centre. The week-long camp for all members of the Cadet Force was challenging to say the least. With its arduous training programme, inclement weather and long hours, it saw the cadets faced with huge challenges throughout. The contingent was also put through its paces when Lt Col Tom Perkins (OA), MBE, The Royal Scots, along with Brigade staff carried out the Biennial Inspection. This consisted of a full formal parade and competition day held at Dalton Barracks. The contingent passed with flying colours and was commended by all at Brigade. The report that followed was classed as “Outstanding” and reflected just how much hard work the staff and cadets put in to achieve this incredible result. The Michaelmas Term saw an additional 68 boys join the recruit section of the force increasing the contingent strength to just below 150 in total. The RAF section has almost doubled in size and is seeing its best numbers in many years. Flt Lt Kate Ley should be congratulated on all of her hard work making the members’ training so enjoyable and varied. In addition to the strength of the section growing, it has also benefitted from a very generous donation from Mr Tony Edwards. This has allowed the contingent to purchase another state- of-the-art flight simulator. This newer variant has the capability of helicopter flights and side-by-side sorties to be undertaken.