Seven RAF Air Cadets from across the North of England, including five from the Yorkshire and the Humber region have successfully completed their challenging Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Gold expedition as part of a Regional expedition organised for Air Cadets from across the North of England. This took place in the Yorkshire Dales with a trek of over fifty miles (80 kilometres) and of four strenuous days in both sunshine and warmth, together with almost three days of non-stop rain and wind to complete the expedition.
Participants across the county
The Yorkshire and Humber cadets were Cadet Warrant Officer Emily Edmiston and Sergeant Isaac Pearson from 1324 (Hawker Blackburn) Squadron, Corporal Summer Munton from 2434 (Church Fenton) Squadron, Flight Sergeant Emma Douglas from 1053 (Armthorpe) Squadron and Sergeant Archie Gillies from 110 (City of York) Squadron. In addition, from Merseyside Wing were Sergeant Thomas Webster of 2359 (Woolton) Squadron and Corporal Thomas Keegan of 146 (Northwich) Squadron.
Prepared and ready to take on the challenge
The cadets were well prepared for the experience having carried out a practice expedition on the North Yorkshire Moors in mid-July. Their journey took them from Redmire, near Leyburn via Wensley, Horsehouse, Buckden, Arncliffe and Malham, was completed on the hills above Kettlewell on day four. During their walk they also visited sites, with splendid views, such as Buckden Pike, Malham Cove and Gordale Scar.
The expedition route was planned and navigated by the team members and included carrying all their equipment and food for four days, which meant that the load became lighter by the day.
Great achievements
An added enjoyment was that just before commencing the expedition Emily Edmiston, the Lord-Lieutenant’s Air Cadet for the East Riding of Yorkshire, found out that she had been accepted for Medical School and Nottingham/Lincoln and will commence her studies in September.
Emily and Isaac said, “the expedition was challenging but very rewarding, and we would encourage all young people to get involved with the award – we have gained fantastic skills and had a great experience!”
Squadron Leader Charlotte Bridges, the Regional Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Officer, who led both the practice and qualifying expeditions added, “The cadets worked hard to prepare for the expeditions, planning their routes and kit. They encountered all weathers during their expedition but worked together to ensure the whole team completed the expeditions. Once they have completed all four sections of the award, they will be eligible to attend a ceremony and garden party at Buckingham Palace to receive their certificates and badges, which I know they will be looking forward to”.
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