THIS year marks the centenary of the Royal Air Force.

And while helping to celebrate this momentous landmark, the 124 (Hereford City) Squadron of the Air Training Corps are planning to look forward as well as back.

The squadron is staging a recruitment campaign aimed at young people aged between school Year 8 and their 17th birthday.

Life in the ATC is never dull. Activities include flying, gliding, parachuting, shooting and first aid. There is an opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and camps are held in the UK and abroad.

Local youngsters recently enjoyed seeing a Chinook helicopter fly in for a visit to the ATC Harold Street headquarters. They were able to look around the interior of this iconic aircraft including the cockpit.

And one squadron member, as Lord Lieutenant's Cadet, helped welcome Prince William on his local visit to Hereford.

The ATC stress that membership does not involve persuasion to join the military, although it can indeed be a stepping stone to such a future if that is desired.

Emphasis is on enjoyment, while also learning useful skills both individual and team based.

Young people interested in joining the ATC can email 124@aircadets.org or ring 01432 267801.

And enquiries from parents or guardians are also welcome.