A proud day for Christchurch Air Training Corps.

Sunday 5th February was a very proud day for the town and its local Air Cadets as Squadrons from Dorset and Wiltshire converged to commemorate the 71st Anniversary of the Founding of the Air Training Corps. Each year a different town within the Dorset / Wiltshire Wing host the parade. This year, it was the turn of our beautiful town of Christchurch

The weather was kind and whilst chilly, the rain and snow thankfully stayed away. The parade was lead by the Christchurch Band of the Royal British Legion who were invited to play by the Commanding Officer of Christchurch ATC, Ian Gant. He said "as we are affiliated with the Christchurch Branch of the Royal British Legion, it seemed only right to invite the band to lead the parade.... we have had a wonderful turn out of over 300 cadets and staff from throughout the Dorset and Wilts Squadrons and to parade with such strength through our hometown of Christchurch was wonderful for the Squadron, its cadets and staff. We also have two cadets who play within the band Cp;. Jaque Durrant and Flt. Sgt. James Emmett, this shows the wonderful opportunities cadets have to broaden and encourage any musical interests they may have"

Members of the public who turned out to watch, were not disappointed as the band played some wonderful marches and the parade so smart.

The Royal Air Force March Past was played as the parade marched past HM Vice Lord Lieutenant for Dorset, James Gibson Fleming, who was escorted by the Deputy Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Peter Hall and Wing Commander Vanessa Toth, Officer Commanding Dorset Wiltshire Wing Air Training Corps. who took the Salute.

One of the onlookers said how wonderful it was to see so many young men and women making a mark for themselves and turning out so smartly. Another said he had served in the RAF a long time ago and to see all the blue uniforms march past had brought a tear to his eye, but with only fond memories.

How wonderful for our town to witness such a sight as this and recognise the hard work and commitment put into youth organisations. Well done to all who took part.

Take a look at some of the photographs from the parade here.