Wrekin Air Cadets Celebrate Growth and New Leadership
September 10th, 2026
1130 (Wrekin) Squadron has held its Annual General Meeting, celebrating a year of growth, community engagement, and renewed momentum from its Board of Trustees.
At the meeting, Rebecca Zacharek was re-elected for a second term as Chair, alongside the election of new Treasurer Gemma Smitherman-Dack.
Rebecca Zacharek, Chair of Trustees 1130 (Wrekin) Squadron said:
“Our AGM is a chance for us to pause and recognise everything our cadets and volunteers have achieved over the past year. Their commitment, energy and resilience are what keep the squadron thriving, and the charity behind them plays a vital role in making that possible. We’re always grateful for anyone who feels able to get involved and help shape the squadron’s future – your support genuinely makes a difference.”
The squadron also highlighted the appointment of its new Treasurer, who is under the age of 30. According to research published by the Charity Commission, only around one percent of charity trustees nationally are under 30, making the appointment particularly notable.
Ryan Phillips, Chair of Trustees for West Mercian Wing, said:
“The progress at the squadron is a brilliant example of what an engaged and proactive Board of Trustees can achieve for young people. As a trustee under 30, I’m especially pleased to see younger voices coming through – bringing new ideas and helping strengthen the future of our charities. This team is already making a real difference locally.”
Trustees during Telford & Wrekin’s Armed Forces Day
Over the past year, the squadron’s Board of Trustees has been rebuilt and is now actively fundraising and applying for grants to support local cadets. Trustees organised their first fundraising event in recent years during Telford & Wrekin’s Armed Forces Day celebrations, followed by a successful quiz night. Both events helped raise funds while strengthening community links.
The squadron also celebrated its 85th anniversary this year, marking the occasion with a commemorative service attended by supporters and members of the local community.
Flight Lieutenant Anne Brown, Officer Commanding 1130 (Wrekin) Squadron, added:
“The close link between our trustees and volunteers helps us deliver a local experience that works for our cadets, supporting young people in the community to build skills, confidence and ambition.”
The role of trustees
Although many core Royal Air Force Air Cadets activities are publicly funded, local opportunities are supported through connected charities overseen by volunteer Boards of Trustees. These trustees help fund equipment, activities, and experiences that enhance opportunities for cadets locally.
Get involved
1130 (Wrekin) 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 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 1130 (Wrekin) 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.
