Twenty-nine RAF Air Cadets from nine different squadrons across Bristol & Gloucestershire Wing completed a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Expedition last weekend. Fifteen cadets from 181 (City of Gloucester) Squadron, 186 (Newent) Squadron, 1245 (Cirencester) Squadron, 1860 (East Bristol) Squadron, 2328 (Bishop’s Cleeve) Squadron, 2419 (Quedgeley) Squadron and 2442 (Westbury-on-Trym) Squadron completed qualifying expeditions. For many this was the last section they needed to complete and they will soon receive their Bronze Awards. Twelve other cadets successfully completed their practice expeditions and can now start planning their own qualifying ventures.

In fine weather the groups set off on foot from Bishop’s Cleeve and climbed steeply to the highest point (317m) in Gloucestershire on Cleeve Hill. They walked to Prescott where they camped at the hill climb track - home of the world famous Bugatti Owners’ Club. After a chilly night under canvas, the groups broke camp and walked, in warm sunny weather, back to Bishop’s Cleeve.

The expedition weekend was organised by Flight Lieutenant Richard Jennings, Officer Commanding 2328 (Bishops Cleeve) Squadron. He was supported by his own staff team, volunteers from other units including 181, 2442 and 1860 Squadrons, and kindly assisted by the Wing Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Officer.