AIR Cadets in Swadlincote are celebrating, after being named the top squadron in the UK. Members of the 1211 Squadron of the Air Training Corps competed against nearly 1000 other units throughout the country to win the Morris Trophy. Squadron Commander Alyn Thompson said: “With activities in our programme ranging from flying and gliding, to training involving B-TEC qualifications and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, 1211 Squadron matched our cadets’ results with those of other units from around the UK for this prestigious trophy. “This earned a superb win for our team with us only narrowly missing a second trophy which went to Chester squadron. We are now considered to be the best (albeit jointly) Air Cadet Squadron in Britain.” Visiting officers watched the cadets on various activities to find out more about what makes the Swadlincote Squadron ‘tick’ including initiative and leadership exercises, public relations activities, flying simulation, Bear Grylls-style survival cooking, and an environmental project. Air Commodore Ian Stewart made the announcement of the winners after months of tension and competition between the ATC squadrons. He said: “I inspected six excellent squadrons across the country and was impressed with the standard of them all. Each one was unique, and offered outstanding activities to the Air Cadets. All of the civilian committees, squadron commanders, staff and cadets can be proud of what they have achieved during the past 12 months.” * The Swadlincote cadets held their annual Open Day on Sunday at their Eureka Park Headquarters, in Swadlincote, with around 1,000 visitors going along to watch displays ranging from their band and drill squads, to a combat display and first aid demonstration. For report and pictures, please see next week’s Burton Trader. | 
