AN air cadets squadron which has helped youngsters learn self-discipline and new skills is celebrating its 70th anniversary.

Since 1943 hundreds of 13 to 20-year-olds have learned such skills as flying, target shooting, canoeing and abseiling, thanks to the 2120 (Witney) Squadron Air Training Corps.

Chairman Ian Broadbridge said: “It provides young people with an outlet and an opportunity to broaden their horizons and feel challenged.

“The opportunities they have within the squadron itself – including flying gliders, planes, technology training and involvement in the RAF itself – is invaluable.

“Many cadets have done things well beyond their comfort zones, attending overseas camps, participating in adventure training expeditions and even flying solo in a glider at 16.”

Lieutenant Broadbridge, who joined in 1959, added: “About 10 per cent of the cadets go on to join the Armed Services.”

Witney Town Council member Chrissie Curry, the squadron’s first honorary president, said: “The importance of the squadron is immense and the training they get is superb.

“One very important aspect is the service discipline – they may not be used to this type of regime when they join, but very quickly learn and appreciate its importance.”

And she paid tribute to the squadron’s voluntary help at Witney Carnival, charity collections and Remembrance Day events. She also recognised its “superb” adult volunteers, adding: “We should all be very grateful to them for the great deal of time and effort they put in. They are a credit to Witney and long may they be centred here.”

The squadron meets every Tuesday and Friday at The Batt CofE Primary School, Corn Street, Witney, from 7pm to 9.30pm.

The cadets will mark the anniversary with a dinner at the Witney Lakes resort on Saturday. The guest of honour will be Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Brigadier Ian Inshaw.

Peter Davies, a civilian instructor at the squadron, said: “It’s a very proud tradition we’ve got here. My main role is to teach them subjects like navigation and everything about aircraft which enables them to progress.”

Mr Davies, of Beech Road, Witney, added: “I’ve been an air cadet since I was 13.

“When I moved to this area about 20 years ago I started taking my daughter as she wanted to join. After she left seven years ago, I started to help out with the cadets.

“It’s particularly satisfying when you see people from the cadets going through into the RAF.

“The anniversary dinner will see past and present members coming together. It should be a great celebration.”