Virtual parade nights have proved no bar to attracting new recruits to Yorkshire’s Air Cadet squadrons.
As the Royal Air Force Air Cadets celebrates its 80th anniversary, it’s still continuing to inspire a new generation – despite the limitations of lockdown.
And among the newest recruits is 13-year-old Emily Richards, from Huddersfield, who joined 868 (Mirfield) Squadron just before Christmas and is now a regular at its virtual parade nights.
Air cadet brother
“My older brother used to be an air cadet and I was looking for something to do to bring a bit of variety and social interaction into my routine,” said Emily, who is in Year 8 of Heckmondwike Grammar School.
“When things get back to in-person activities, I’m looking forward to doing some practical activities. But for now I’m really enjoying all the talks and online events we have. It gives me a break from social media and is different from all the schoolwork I’m doing.”
As well as the cadets, Emily does judo and enjoys playing video games. She hopes to be an architect when she grows up.