CADETS from Dorset and Wiltshire will parade through Christchurch on Sunday to mark the 71st anniversary of the founding of the Air Training Corps.
More than 300 cadets and staff will take part in the parade, which is hosted by a different squadron each year.
This year it is the turn of 171 Christchurch Squadron, which was among the first Air Training Corps Squadrons formed in 1941, but can trace its origins to 1939, when it was formed as an Air Defence Cadet Corps unit, along with the Bournemouth and Poole units.
Cadets will be travelling to Christchurch from over 30 squadrons across the two counties.
The parade will be led by the Royal British Legion Band, and will start at 1.30pm with a march through the High Street to historic Christchurch Priory for a special service starting at 2pm.
The parade will then return along the High Street, where the salute will be taken by HM Vice Lord Lieutenant for Dorset, James Gibson Fleming. He will be escorted by the Deputy Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr Peter Hall and Wing Commander Vanessa Toth, Officer Commanding Dorset Wiltshire Wing Air Training Corps.
She said: “This is one of the most important occasions in the cadet year, and a great opportunity to show people the high standards achieved by our cadets.”
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