AN ARDROSSAN air cadet volunteer has won a prestigious award for his outstanding service.

Flight Lieutenant Bill Taylor of Ardrossan’s 1138 Squadron won one of the two Cadet Adult Recognition Awards [CARAs] – a youth-nominated award for cadet service and making a positive impact.

Bill Taylor secured one of two air cadet awards up for grabs – with the prize sponsored by Rangers Football Club’s Charity Foundation.

Thousands of Cadet Force Adult Volunteers [CFAVs] across the Lowlands of Scotland dedicate their lives to helping and inspiring children from very diverse backgrounds by delivering the Cadet programme.

The Cadet organisations bring unparalleled opportunities for young people from all walks of life to learn, grow and excel and are run by thousands of ordinary volunteers, doing extraordinary things.

The Air Force Cadets, Sea Cadets, Army Cadet Force, sponsored by the Ministry of Defence, are some of the largest and oldest voluntary youth organisations in the country and provide military-themed activities and training for young people aged 10 to 18.

The Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association’s CARAs award scheme gives Cadets the opportunity to officially thank the adult volunteers who have committed to developing young people.

The ceremony took place on YouTube on August 13. Ten prizes were awarded following many nominations for a great number of outstanding volunteers.

Kate Johnston, Lowland RFCA Head of Communications said: “The vast proportion of those who deliver the Cadet programme are volunteers. Many of these individuals have a lot to balance with busy day jobs and families. This makes it all the more incredible that they freely give up hundreds of hours a year to assist young people in so many valuable ways. It’s utterly inspiring and we believe these fantastic volunteers deserve a big public thank you.

“As an organisation Lowland RFCA champions, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, the relationship between Defence and employers. And through our day-to-day work we have really good links with the local business community. This connects the business world with the Cadet world and brings a nice harmony across the board.”

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