163 (Coventry Phoenix) Squadron are celebrating the award of £950.00 from Heart of England Community Foundation.

The Squadron, based at TA Centre in Canley, Coventry , applied to The Foundation for a grant to purchase some much needed equipment to assist the cadets as with The Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

The Squadron really ‘kick started' their participation in the Award scheme during 2010 and wanted to be able to purchase equipment that could be loaned to the cadets completing the expedition part of their awards. The grant has enabled the squadron the purchase 10 quality sleeping bags with liners, 10 sixty-five litre rucksacks and 5 Trangia stoves.

Flt Lt Mandy Sinfield, 163 Squadron D of E Officer said, “we are so grateful to the Heart of England Foundation for this grant. Our cadets have already benefitted from the loan of this equipment and in a time when finances are tight for a lot of families, it has saved them buying kit for these young people and has made the award accessible for all. This grant is not only benefitting our cadets now but will continue to serve potential cadets in the future”.

163 Squadron achieved record results for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award during April 2010 – March 2011 with 10 cadets achieving their bronze awards, 4 cadets achieving silver and one completing his Gold Award and booking a place for his presentation at St James' Palace in July.