Ray Margerison

Ray Margerison, long time member of 361 (Gateshead) Squadron, passed away peacefully at 11.00pm on 23rd April following a battle with lung cancer.

 Ray joined 361 Squadron as a cadet in 1949 and other than his years of National Service served continuously with this unit for 65 years as cadet, Civilian Instructor, Adult Warrant Officer and upon retirement from uniformed service he continued as a Civilian Instructor and Squadron Adjutant until bad health prevented him from regularly attending the squadron earlier this year.

The funeral will take place at Saltwell Crematorium, Saltwell Road South, Gateshead, NE9 6DT on Friday, 2nd May at 10.30am.

His daughter has stated that all that knew Ray are welcome to attend (in uniform if possible/applicable).

James Raymond Margerison - 1935-2014

Radio Communicators Awards

Cadet Warrant Officers Beth Ainsley and Chris Dolphin have been presented with their Radio Communicators Certificates and Badges having completed all of the required modules for this award.

This award is the highest radio award an Air Cadet can receive and required the completion of a number of modules which in CWO Ainsley's and Dolphin's case included:

• Completing and passing the Amateur Radio Foundation Examination
• Passing examinations on Advanced Radio & Radar and Satellite Communications
• Completing an Internet Module (including building a website)
• Demonstrating a range of practical radio operating skills

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In addition, 14 cadets were recently presented with their Provisional Radio Operators Certificates which are awarded to cadets after completion of a course which provides training in basic 2-way radio operations.

The photographs shows six of these cadets with their awards.

Heartstart Awards

Ten cadets from 361 squadron recently qualified for Heartstart awards following training by  Sgt K Laws who is one of our staff instructors.

The course includes CPR techniques and all cadets at the squadron have the opportunity to complete this training which ensures that they have the necessary skills to possibly save a life.

The photograph shows some of the cadets who were recently presented with their certificates.

High Flyers

Grob Tutor T1

It was third time lucky (after two cancellations on previous dates due to poor weather) for three cadets from 361 squadron who today completed their first flights in Grob Tutor aircraft at RAF Leeming.

Cadets Luke Craig, Adam Sexton and Ryan Vasey all had the opportunity to handle the controls during their flight which took them over North Yorkshire.

Cadets Ryan Vasey and Luke Craig

Cadet Adam Sexton

 Six more cadets from the squadron will have the opportunity to fly in Tutors later this month.

Cadet CV for Corporal Purdy

Cpl Matthew Purdy was this week presented with a Cadet CV which is awarded to cadets when they have achieved the following goals:

• Flown in RAF training aircraft as a pilot under instruction showing confidence and ability to follow precise instructions.
• Taken part in Target Shooting which requires self-discipline and an ability to follow exact training and instructions and good hand-eye co-ordination.
• Achieved a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award - this award requires motivation and persistence and also demonstrates the ability to work as part of a team. It includes sections that require voluntary service to others, skills and physical achievements as well as an unaccompanied expedition in a small group which demands resilience and courage to complete.
• Attended a residential camp demonstrating personal organisation and the ability to interact with others.

Durham/Northumberland Wing Band Practice

The first Durham/Northumberland Wing Band practice of 2014 was held on Sunday, 9th February at Tynemouth squadron.

The band, which includes several members of 361 (Gateshead) Squadron, performed extremely well especially as this was the first time that many of the members had played together.

Flying High

Three cadets from 361 Squadron recently went flying in Tutor aircraft at RAF Leeming in North Yorkshire. For Cdts Adam Easton and William Fletcher it was their first flights in a Tutor whilst for Cdt Eliza Baron it was her second time in the air at RAF Leeming.

Cdt Easton waiting for take off

Cdt Baran kitted up and ready to go...