Thursday 20 th October was an important night for the staff and cadets of 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn ATC as they welcomed Gisela Stuart MP to the Sqn headquarters.

Gisela is the Member of Parliament for the Edgbaston constituency, an area which covers the squadron's catchment area. She was welcomed by Flt Lt Simon Jennings, Officer Commanding 485 Sqn.

Flt Lt Jennings briefed Gisela on the activities of the ATC and how 485 Sqn is part of the Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing. Gisela, who is a member of the Defence Select Committee, let slip that she works closely with the Royal Naval Reserve, something that the Sqn doesn't hold against her!! Gisela has a wide experience of the three services and has visited many service establishments both in the UK and overseas.

Gisela was then shown the current ATC promotional DVD and then went on to visit a group of cadets who were undertaking map and compass training. She then observed cadets who were undergoing weapons training on the 25 metre indoor range which is located at Tennal Grange.

Flt Lt Simon Jennings, OC 485 Sqn commented “I would like to thank Gisela for taking the time out of her busy schedule to come and see us. I think it is really important that the Sqn is recognised in the local community and what better way of doing that than inviting our local MP to the Sqn. Gisela has great experience of the services and it was really good to chat to her not only about the ATC, but the regular forces in general. We look forward to inviting her to future events hosted by the Sqn