MEMBERS of the Air Cadets from across Oxfordshire were presented with awards in an annual ceremony at RAF Benson.

Officers, adjutants and civilian committee members from Didcot, Abingdon, Wantage and Brize Norton were honoured on Saturday, November 25.

Nominees attended with invited guests for the awards, sponsored by the South East Reserve Forces’ and Cadets' Association, Squadron Leader Senft, Mr Rodger French, RAF Benson and local businesses AWE and Safety Lawyers.

Among this year's winners of State Awards were Flt Lt Dan Azizian, Officer Commanding 2121 (Abingdon) Squadron, described as 'an outstanding officer who is knowledgeable about training and who sets and maintains very high standards'.

Flt Lt Jane Wicks, adjutant at 2410 (Didcot) Squadron, was heralded as 'an exemplary role model' who 'works tirelessly to provide excellent opportunities to the cadets in her charge'.

Gretel Quick, who is the secretary of 2121 (Abingdon) Sqn’s Civilian Committee, was congratulated for spearheading the squadron’s 'significant' fund raising efforts, including helping to raise more than £4,500 to pay for gliding lessons.

The annual Air Cadets awards are intended to recognise 'the dedication and commitment of the volunteers and cadets that help make the Air Cadets one of the leading youth organisations in the UK'.

Thames Valley Wing chairman Jon Payne said: "This is the one opportunity each year when we are able to celebrate the contribution that is made by the uniformed and civilian staff, chaplaincy and civilian committees of Thames Valley Wing, all of whom are volunteers."