AIR Cadets in north Durham are on target to develop new skills following a cash boost to buy archery equipment.

The Benevolent Committee of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Durham has provided a grant of £700 to the 1409 (Consett) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC) - to enable them participate in this increasingly popular sport.

Receiving the cheque from Brian Graham of the PGL Benevolent Committee, Flt Lt Dave Parker said: ‘We currently have 26 cadets and they will all have the chance to take part in the training.

“Archery promotes self-confidence, patience, responsibility, and the importance of safety.

“We also feel that activities such as this will also attract more young people to join the cadets to enjoy the many benefits of being part of the ATC.”.

Flt Sgt Les Lawson, a qualified archery instructor, confirmed the lack of funds had prevented them from progressing the introduction of the sport to the squadron cadets.

He said: ‘We are very grateful to the local freemasons for considering our application and for awarding us this grant.

“Our cadets are excited about this opportunity and some hope to eventually attain a level of proficiency that will allow them to take part in ‘inter-squadron’ and other competitions’.

Anyone between the ages of 13 and 17 can join 1409 (Consett) Squadron.

It meets every Monday and Friday evening between 7pm and 9.15pm at the Squadron HQ, Parliament Street, Consett.

For further information and contact details visit www.1409sqn.org