A TEENAGE air cadet who went the extra mile to help others has been presented with a Gold level Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Flight sergeant Rachel Vincent, a cadet with 1507 (Chester-le-Street) Squadron, completed all five section of the award scheme over the last year.

The 19-year-old spent a year helping out with Chester-le-Street Brownies, completed a three-day coast-to-coast cycle ride and a four-day self-sufficiency expedition in the Cheviot Hills.

For the final section of the award scheme, Cadet Vincent flew out to Uganda where she helped build one classroom and renovate two others at a primary school in Kumi.

During her time in Uganda, she also helped out in the classroom at a school for deaf children, helped local aid teams build housing in the community and volunteered at an orphanage and health centre.

Richard Bacon, manager with Mission Direct, said, “Rachel was a great member of the team and joined in all activities with energy and enthusiasm.

“She showed initiative in organising activities and worked well with the other members of the team. It would be great to see Rachel back in Kumi sometime possibly as part of a staff team.”

Cadet Vincent said: “It spurred me to try new things and meet new people, and I never thought it would lead me to places like Uganda”.

She added: “It’s been an honour to take part in such an amazing award and I would encourage anyone else to participate too.”

Her squadron commander Flight Lieutenant Mathew Burton added, “Flight Sergeant Vincent should be extremely proud.

“She has achieved what few do in their teenage years and is a credit to the Squadron”.