THREE members of the air cadets have had their commitment acknowledged at an awards ceremony hosted by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater London.

Alan Bearn, 67, from Buckhurst Hill was awarded The Association Certificate of Commendation for his 50 year service to the cadets.

Mr Bearn, a weapons officer with Chingford Air Training Corps, instructs and coaches rifle shooting, and teaches map reading, climbing and hill walking skills.

He said he was delighted to receive his award, adding: “It is always nice to have one’s efforts recognised but it does not compare to the feeling I have coaxing a cadet to overcome his fears climbing a rockface or seeing ex cadets benefit from their service and go on to achieve great things.”

Two long-serving members of Chigwell Squadron have also been honoured for their work.

Flight Lieutenant Russ Hollington, the Squadron's former Commanding Officer, received his award for completing 32 years continuous service while current Squadron Warrant Officer Ivor Thomas received his award for 25 years of service.

Chigwell Commanding Officer Dan O’Mahoney said: "It was good to see both Russ and Ivor get this award for their combined 57 years of service to the youth of Chigwell and the Air Training Corps in General. It’s richly deserved."

Chigwell squadron meet Monday and Thursday nights in Buckhurst Hill.

For more information visit 2324squadron.org.uk.