The Plymouth and Cornwall Wing of the RAF Air Cadets gathered en masse in Falmouth on Sunday to celebrate the founding of the Air Training Corps 75 years ago.

Cadets from 1157 (Falmouth) Squadron, 3 (Helston) Sqn, 77 (Redruth) Sqn, 1900 (West Cornwall) Sqn and 147 (Camborne) Sqn joined 350 air cadets and volunteer staff who had travelled from Plymouth, the South Hams, west Devon and all across Cornwall at the 75th Anniversary Parade which was followed by a service at the Church of King Charles the Martyr.

The cadets and staff were joined by former cadets and staff as well as parents. The guests included Group Captain Mike Trace OBE, Deputy Lieutenant of Cornwall; Air Commodore Gary Tunnicliffe, Ministry of Defence's head of remuneration (and former Plymouth Air Cadet); Councillor John Body, mayor of Falmouth and Penryn councillor Mary May, vice-chair of Cornwall Council.

The church service was led by the Rev Stephen Tudgey and the address was given by the Wing's Chaplain Rev Prebendary Brian Anderson. After the service the cadets marched to Events Square where Group Captain Trace took the salute.

A reception was then held at the Church Hall in New Street for all those who had been involved who tucked into 500 pasties from Rowe's. The bakery had also made a special giant pasty for the event, embossed with the number 75.

Wing Commander Francis Reis, Officer Commanding, said: "Today has been a truly spectacular effort, especially considering that the parade started in hail and rain. Not one cadet complained. Thanks must also go to Falmouth Town Council and the Parish Church of King Charles the Martyr for making us so welcome. I am proud and honoured to command this Wing,"

Currently, Plymouth and Cornwall Wing consists of 23 units, 730 cadets and 190 volunteer staff. One of the key messages in this 75th year is the need for more volunteers, in a wide variety of roles, across the country to keep these units open so they can continue to give young people amazing opportunities.

Anyone aged 20 or over who feels they can help inspire the next generation, should contact the wing headquarters on 01637 857419 or visit raf.mod.uk/aircadets. Previous military or aviation experience is not required.