New kayaks help air cadets get back on the water

AIR CADETS will be able to keep on kayaking thanks to a grant which will be used to purchase new boats.

The cadets at the 2484 (Bassingbourn) Squadron faced the prospect of being left up the creek without a paddle because their kayaks and safety equipment, which were donated to them by the Melbourn Canoe Club, are coming to the end of their usable life.

However, a grant of just under �3,500 from the RAF charitable trust means they will be able to purchase nine modern boats and accompanying safety equipment.

Witjse Powell, a staff member at the cadet unit who was instrumental in putting together the grant application, said: “The cadets are very excited about the new equipment and getting a full paddling program in place for next spring.”

The new boats will allow the cadets to make longer touring and overnight journeys, which means they can now complete their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award by kayak.

The 2484 (Bassingbourn) Squadron is open to young men and women aged 13-17.

For information on how to join, see www.2484aircadets.org or call 01763 249156.