HEREFORDSHIRE Freemasons have donated £600 to 151 (Leominster) Squadron of the Air Training Corps, as part of their continued and enthusiastic support for a wide range of charitable organisations in the county.

Amongst many other activities, the squadron uses a flight simulator to give cadets some early experience of what it is like to handle an aircraft, and this forms an important part of the training given to the young members of the squadron. The £600 is being used to purchase an additional six instrument panels with a wide range of functions, which will greatly enhance this facility, and help to provide an experience as close as possible to flying without actually boarding an aircraft.

The Leominster Squadron is a well-established branch of the RAF Air Cadets, and celebrated its 30th anniversary in May 2016. It currently has 24 cadets but could accommodate up to 30, so there is room for more to join. Applicants, both boys and girls, should be aged between 12 and 17.

The Freemasons of Herefordshire are very pleased to be able to support this worthwhile activity, which provides a great experience for a number of young people, and may encourage some to consider a career in the service.