Each year 211 (Newbury) Squadron offers help and support to several local charities.

One of these is the “Hungerford Big Wheel” cycle ride, which raises money for the charity “Children in Distress” - whose mission is to provide love and care for children living with HIV, Aids or incurable illnesses.

The cadets provide marshalling and waypoint markers for the cyclists, ensuring they don’t get lost on the 24 mile Family route, or the more challenging 32 mile cross country route.

As well as providing a radio safety network and first aid cover, several cadets and staff also ride in the event – Warrant Officer Ian “Toffee” Lowe, adopting his traditional role as “Tail-end Toffee”, the back marker for the Cross Country route, with Cadet Corporal Dominic Mercer riding for charity in the event.

This years event proved very successful, with no riders getting lost, and lots of money raised for a worthy cause.