GORDON Banks MP visited Air Training Corps 383 (Alloa) Squadron recently, and met with officers, young cadets and volunteers.

The Ochil and South Perthshire MP was delighted to get the chance to see around the John Wynne Cadet Centre in Whins Road, Alloa – and the cadets were keen to show him the laptops and equipment they had purchased following their successful application to the Big Lottery Fund for £3500 last year.

The cadets have also raised funds for Erskine Hospital, and lend a hand in the hospital garden where ex-service personnel and families can visit for quiet contemplation and to remember colleagues and loved ones.

The cadets’ work in the garden also contributes to their Duke of Edinburgh Award, which is recognised by universities and employers.

Mr Banks said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to 383 Squadron headquarters and meeting everyone who are based there. Wing Executive Officer, George Roberts was also visiting that evening so that was a bonus.

“I was particularly impressed by the training activities that are on offer for the cadets, and there is no doubt that the lottery funding has been beneficial in relation to this.

“The enthusiasm of the young cadets, and the officers, was very much in evidence as they told me about the various projects they had been involved in.

“As well as the aviation training, the cadets are learning skills here such as first aid and good citizenship, and these skills will live with them throughout the rest of their lives.

“I wish 383 Alloa Squadron the best of luck for 2015, and I’m very much looking forward to catching up with them in the future.” Flight Sergeant Garry Henderson added: “The Air Training Corp 383 Squadron (Alloa) is a busy squadron which has 20 local cadets from Clackmannanshire area, the squadron is open on a Monday and Friday night from 7pm to 9.30pm and if anyone would like to join, they are very welcome to visit us and watch us during training.

“Training is varied and involves Drill, Projects, Duke of Edinburgh, Charity Work, Flight Simulator and Classifications.

“The cadets also get the opportunity to go flying and gliding in the Corp, and go to camps across the UK and in countries such as Cyprus, Germany, and Gibraltar and where they can visit RAF Stations.

“So if you are interested, then call in or contact Squadron 383 by calling 01259 213709 and we will give you advice.”