Ludlow Air Cadets Celebrate Success and Seek Support
September 1st, 2026
Annual meeting highlights achievements and need for trustees
333 (Ludlow) Squadron has held its Annual General Meeting alongside its latest awards evening, celebrating the achievements of its cadets while highlighting the need for additional community support.
The event saw a full hall of parents and carers come together to recognise cadet success, with certificates and trophies awarded across a range of areas including first aid, fieldcraft, radio, and the prestigious Best Cadet award.
New Secretary elected
At the AGM, Ian Ruston and Robert Povall were re-elected as Chair and Treasurer, with Amie Watson elected as Secretary.
The role of trustees
The squadron is supported by a connected local charity, which relies on a Board of Trustees to oversee fundraising and manage non-public funds. Currently, the charity has three trustees but requires at least five to operate effectively.
Although the Royal Air Force Air Cadets is sponsored by the Royal Air Force, meaning core activities are publicly funded, each squadron relies on its trustees to fund additional equipment, experiences, and opportunities that give it a distinct local character.
Left: Cadets participating in first aid training. Right: Cadets supporting their local Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
Warrant Officer Maureen Daw, Officer in Charge 333 (Ludlow) Squadron, said:
“The close relationship between our Board of Trustees and volunteer team allows us to shape a local experience that really works for our cadets, helping young people in the community develop skills, confidence and ambition.”
Ryan Phillips, Chair of Trustees for West Mercian Wing, said:
“Ludlow has a strong foundation and it’s clear from the awards evening just how much cadets are achieving. Bringing in additional trustees will help unlock even more opportunities, from applying for grants to investing in equipment that supports future development.”
Ian Ruston, Chair of Trustees 333 (Ludlow) Squadron added:
“Our cadets thrive because of the support behind the scenes. We urgently need more volunteers to join the Board of Trustees and help provide opportunities, activities, and a strong future for our squadron. Even a small amount of time can make a big difference.”
Get involved
333 (Ludlow) Squadron is now encouraging others in the community to get involved. Young people aged 12 to 17 can join as cadets, while adults can volunteer their time either as uniformed volunteers or as trustees supporting the charity behind the scenes.
- Young people aged 12–17 can join as cadets
- Adults can volunteer as staff or support behind the scenes as trustees
About the Royal Air Force Air Cadets
The Royal Air Force Air Cadets (RAFAC) is one of the United Kingdom’s largest youth organisations, sponsored by the Royal Air Force. It is formed by both the Air Training Corps and Royal Air Force sections of the Combined Cadet Force, supporting young people aged 12 to 19 through aviation-inspired activities, leadership training, adventure training, and community engagement.
While core activities are supported at public expense, local squadrons rely on charitable fundraising and trustees to provide additional equipment, activities, and opportunities tailored to their communities. In 2026, the RAF Air Cadets celebrates its 85th anniversary.
All squadrons are run by volunteers. Those able to commit as little as around 12 hours a year may support as trustees, helping oversee governance and fundraising, while those with more time can work directly with cadets as instructors or staff. No military background is required for either role.
About West Mercian Wing RAF Air Cadets
West Mercian Wing supports 27 squadrons across Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, the Black Country, and Cyprus.
Around 180 trustees work alongside 300 uniformed and civilian volunteers to provide governance, financial oversight, and fundraising support. Collectively, they contribute approximately 80,000 volunteer hours each year to enable and deliver opportunities for young people.
Through this combined effort, trustees enable volunteers to deliver the cadet experience – supporting everything from training and activities to equipment, camps, and community engagement across the Wing.
About 333 (Ludlow) Squadron
The squadron is part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, supporting young people aged 12 to 19 through aviation-inspired activities, leadership training, adventure training, and community engagement. The squadron is delivered entirely by volunteers, supported by a Board of Trustees.
