A DEPLETED cadet squadron, with just 10 youths in its ranks, could be forced to disband.

About three years ago the Kidlington Air Cadets could count on almost 40 members, but now the unit, also called No 1315 (Kidlington) Squadron, operates on a skeleton membership.

Organisers are appealing to the community to help bolster numbers. The Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Tony Samms, said the problem had been recruiting new members.

He said: “Young people have more going on. We are meeting two nights a week and some weekends so it can be hard.

“But if they are looking for something to challenge them, we’ve got it. The friends you make you can end up with for the rest of your life.”

Its chaplain, the Rev Jim Turner, said: “If it keeps getting lower and lower we would have to close the squadron.”

He said the benefits of being a cadet included earning a pilot’s licence, as well as gaining leadership and teambuilding skills.

The unit meets 7.15-9.30pm Tuesday and Thursday at Deaufort House, Sterling Road.

To find out more, visit kidlingtonaircadets.org.uk

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