A CADET from Dorchester is flying high after enjoying the experience of a lifetime visiting the world famous RAF Aerobatic Team the Red Arrows.

Sergeant Joseph Ashley is a sixth form student at the Thomas Hardye School and a Cadet Senior Non-Commissioned Officer of 2182 (Dorchester) Squadron.

He was one of eight cadets from across the Dorset Wing given the opportunity to visit the Red Arrows at Bournemouth Airport after they were recognised for their outstanding contribution to the organisation.

The young cadets were given unrestricted access to get u close and personal with the Red Arrows aircraft and meet current serving members of the team.

Each cadet had the opportunity to view the cockpit and talk through the intricacies of flying aerobatic displays in the iconic Red Arrows displays.

For 19-year-old Ashley the trip was the opportunity of a lifetime and he said he felt ‘privileged’ to have been offer the chance to meet up with the Red Arrows.

He said: “This was a fantastic opportunity and something that I would have never got to do without being part of the Air Training Corps – I feel incredibly privileged.”

At the end of the visit the cadets waved the jets off from the side of the airfield as the Red Arrows headed off to give a display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Ashley’s trip serves as an example of the kind of opportunities afforded to the Air Training Corps and the Dorchester squadron is always keen to hear from anyone who is interested in getting involved.

The group offers youngsters a huge range of divers and exciting opportunities.

The 2182 (Dorchester) Squadron meets twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays, at Marabout Barracks in Poundbury Road.

Anyone between the ages of 13 and 18 is welcome to come along to the evening sessions.

For more information call 01305 753964 or email 2182@ aircadets.org You can also follow the squadron on Twitter @DorchesterATC