ARMED Forces Minister Penny Mordaunt and MP Kris Hopkins visited the 1224 (Wharfedale) Squadron Air Training Corps in Ilkley to see the band in action.

Warrant Officer David Wood welcomed the minister and Mr Hopkins and they discussed the wide array of activities the Air Cadets are currently involved in.

The 1224 (Wharfedale) Squadron was established 75 years ago and supports many community events, including Ilkley Carnival.

Mr Wood said: “It was a great opportunity to showcase our band to Penny Mordaunt and for the Air Cadets to have an opportunity to demonstrate their marching and drumming skills.”

Air Cadets can join from the start of Year 8 and experience all aspects of the Air Training Corps, even having the opportunity to fly at a local airfield.

Mr Hopkins said: “I was delighted to take Penny to meet our local squadron and see the excellent work that the Air Cadets and the first class volunteers do on local, regional and national levels.

“Not only do the Air Cadets learn about the Royal Air Force but they also raise a considerable amount of money for good causes, particularly Armed Forces charities. We should be very proud of them.”

To find out more about the Air Training Corps or joining the Air Cadets, call (01943) 604796 on a Monday or Thursday evening or e-mail oc.1224@aircadets.org.