Air Cadets from across Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing recently came together at the National Air Cadet Training centre at Llanbedr, in North Wales, all with a common goal, to complete their Duke of Edinburgh Expedition phase. 

Three cadets from 495 Sutton Coldfield Squadron went, Adrian Berridge and Jo Brighton to complete their final expedition on their Gold, and Rachael Perry on her Gold practice expedition. Adult Sergeant James Wilson of 495 was staff at the camp who was out on the hills most of the time looking out for the cadets and their safety. 

Throughout the next week the cadets took part in the most physically challenging venture for people of their age. The skills they used were map reading, camp craft and the ability to live out of a rucksack in which they carried everything they needed for the four day long expedition. Most importantly the cadets had to be at a fitness level that would enable them to walk over 50 miles and climb over 2000ft. The only other quality they needed was the determination to complete.

Brighton and Perry faced their challenge together with 3 other girls from different Air Cadet Squadrons. These girls were going to be their family for the week and they had to look out for one another.

Throughout the four days the group used their individual skills and team work to cross peaks without correct footpaths and harsh terrain. The girls had none of their usual at home comforts. Make up was swapped for sun screen, and beds at home swapped for a tent and roll mat. All three finished tired and exhausted knowing that they had all achieved something.