AIR cadets from the Cirencester squadron received a special visit from a prominent figure of the RAF Association on Friday evening. 

Mr Tony Eve, chairman of Dursley and South Gloucestershire branch of the Royal Air Forces Association, visited the squadron in Cirencester on Friday, October 13 to present Jamie Taylor with a certificate for the group's fundraising efforts during Battle of Britain Wings Appeal Week. 

Wings Appeal Week takes place every year during the two weeks of September preceding Battle of Britain Sunday and raises funds to support serving and ex-RAF personnel and their families.

Cadets from the Cirencester squadron surpassed expectations and raised £1,001 from collecting in the town centre on Saturday, September 16.

Squadron leader Hugh Thomas MBE has thanked Cirencester residents for their generosity. 

Mr Thomas said: "We have been unable to collect for the last four years as a result of the pandemic and the sad passing of the Queen last year.

"However, thanks to the generosity of the Cirencester public the cadets managed to raise a wonderful amount of £1,001 this year - the largest contribution we have ever raised. 

"The group enjoyed talking to the people of Cirencester and encouraging others to join the cadets.

"The money raised enables Royal Air Forces Association charity to support the many requirements of RAF veterans, serving members and families in need of our support.

"Jamie has been a cadet for the past five years and is now an adult member of staff.

"As he has collected for many years I thought it was appropriate that he received the certificate on the squadron's behalf.

"Over the years we have always raised a good amount but this is the first time we have raised more than £1,000 and for that want to truly thank the people of Cirencester for their generosity."