A FORMER air cadet who joined his local unit as a teenager has joined the RAF as a cyberspace communications specialist.

Aircraftsman Alex Beck joined the air force from 1507 (Chester-le-Street) Squadron where he has been a cadet for six years.

He said: “I remember walking up the drive to the squadron for the first time in early 2010.

“I remember feeling very nervous as I was quite shy child and I also remember questioning whether it would be any good at all.

“But I look back at that now and I’m grateful I stuck with it as the six years I was at 1507 were some of the best in my life so far.”

Having completed his basic training and Passing Out parade, Aircraftsman Beck will look after equipment such as tactical satellite systems and airfield radars in his new role.