AIR Cadets from 372 (Barry) Squadron; recently meet two pilots from the world famous Red Arrows aerobatic display team at the University of South Wales.

To celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Royal Aeronautical Society the Cardiff branch organised the visit and presentation from two pilots from The Red Arrows - Flight Lieutenant Mike Bowden (Red 4) and Flight Lieutenant Stu Campbell (Red 8).

Both pilots gave a fascinating insight into their flying careers with the Royal Air Force and the various fast jet aircraft they have flown. Mike also spoke about the selection process to become a Red Arrow pilot, the rigorous winter training programme to prepare for the forthcoming air display season; and what it is like to fly the Hawk T1 aircraft whilst pulling 7g (where the human body weighs seven times its normal weight); often at 400 knots often only six feet apart from the next aircraft.

The way both pilots spoke passionately about life in the Red Arrows captured the imagination of the entire audience.

The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, has been displaying since 1965; with a trademark combination of close formations, precision flying and is considered to be the premier aerobatic team in the world. The team is made up of more than 120 people, including pilots, engineers and essential support staff and they are based at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire.

The team has a number of important roles including: supporting UK industry and commerce, to demonstrate excellence, precision and the best of British, to showcase the professionalism of the Armed Forces - their capability, innovation and adaptation, to carry out defence diplomacy overseas, providing vital support for UK industry, to be global ambassadors for the Royal Air Force, Armed Forces and UK and to aid recruitment into the Armed Forces.

The cadets were eager to ask many questions after the presentation and to have their photographs taken and both Mike and Stu, who were both keen to oblige.

The cadets who attended the presentation were James Jelinski, Alex Wilton, Rhian and Rhys Horton, Zena Poulakis, Tash Gill, Sam Smith, Jenna Day, Nathan Thompson, Alex Cheeseley, Dan Broadband and Shannon Stait.

The Cadets now return to an action packed training programme of flying, gliding, shooting, team building exercises, sport, adventurous training and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

If you have a spirit for adventure, 372 Squadron, welcomes all young men and women between 12 (in school Year 8) -17 years old to join. The Squadron parade at 5th Barry Scouts on Everard Street, Barry on Monday evening 7.30pm to 9.30pm and Wednesday evening 7pm to 9.30pm.

You can also contact/text the Squadron on 07486 501864, email oc.372@aircadets.org or visit 372squadron.org for more information about becoming an Air Cadet.