The trustees of a local Air Cadet squadron ran a very successful quiz night alongside an awards ceremony on June 23 at Heath End Village Hall.

Over £500 was raised for 2403 (Aldermaston) Squadron who are based in Tadley, opposite the new Lidl store.

Funds are always needed for new equipment, projects, and activities for the 30 current cadets, and the Commanding Officer Flt Lt Richard Williams showed his appreciation and thanks at the end of the successful annual quiz event.

The hall was completely full, with 21 teams of local supporters, including staff, cadets, friends, families, the trustees, and several local councillors.

This year, the event was joined by a local celebrity team who have appeared on TV’s Eggs Heads and ITV’s Tenable Quiz Show.

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This year, the Squadron will be celebrating its 60th Anniversary, having been established in 1963.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation by Cllr Tony Flahive of four Tadley Town Council “Good Citizen Awards” to two staff members and two trustees, who between them have given 158 years of service to the Squadron.

Basingstoke Gazette: 21 teams attended the quiz night on June 2321 teams attended the quiz night on June 23 (Image: 2403 (Aldermaston) Sqn ATC)

The awards had been nominated by the current chair of trustees, Mr Simon Williams together with local councillor, Cllr Warwick Lovegrove, on behalf of the current staff and trustees.

They wanted to recognise the tremendous contribution made by local volunteers who support the many young people who have benefited from their time at the squadron as they grow into mature and responsible adults.

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Flt Lt Penny Palmer received the award for her 40 years’ service to the Squadron. Penny was the Commanding Officer from 1994 till she stood down in 2022 and was known for her caring and incredibly supportive role over the years. Her husband, Warrant Officer Jim Palmer had provided 29 years of service to the Squadron.

In addition, two of the trustees also received awards. Mr Keith Searle was awarded for 46 years of dedicated service to the squadron, before standing down in 2022. He was the chair of trustees for 30 years till 2011. Mr Pete Reynolds is an active member of the community who became a trustee in 1980 and still serves on the committee. He received the award for his 43 years of service.

Chair of Trustees, Simon Williams, said: "We had a memorable evening, with a mix of fun, and a real feeling of pride when we recognised the amazing service of the volunteers who support the Air Cadets in Tadley."

Basingstoke Gazette: Keith Searle and Pete Reynolds have volunteered for a combined 89 yearsKeith Searle and Pete Reynolds have volunteered for a combined 89 years (Image: 2403 (Aldermaston) Sqn ATC)