New minibus for 172 Haywards Heath RAF Air Cadets
- Justine Greenfield
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
Our grant from the Connaught Trust has enabled 172 (Haywards Heath) RAF Air Cadets to purchase a much needed minibus to transport our cadets to and from events. Since the purchase in April the bus has been in high demand with a variety of events taking place. The Ford Transit minibus has a capacity for up to 16 passengers, and offers greater comfort and reliability for our staff and cadets.
The minibus has enabled cadets to attend the following events and activities over the past 5 months:
Powered Flying and Gliding - Some of our experience flying allocations are up to two hours driving each way, and the new minibus provides added comfort for the longer journey. For these events we will also invite other attending squadrons to share the transport with us, saving the need to take extra vehicles.
Air Show Experiences - Our cadets have visited a number of air shows this Summer including Eastbourne Airborne and the National Air and Space Camp Industry Day held at RAF Syerston.
Duke of Edinburgh's Award - Our cadets have recently completed their practice and qualifying expeditions. The minibus has enabled staff to support our cadets with transport and logistics.
Sports Events - Cadets have been able to attend inter-wing sports competitions with transport being provided by the unit.
Parades - Haywards Heath Squadron recently hosted a Battle of Britain memorial service in our town. With over 200 cadets and staff in attendance, the minibus was vital with providing support and transport to personnel and equipment to and from the required locations. The bus was crucial to brining a Wing Band together with musicians and instruments needing transport from different locations from around Sussex to Haywards Heath.
Recently we have had a livery applied to our minibus. The vehicle now has an identity showcasing 172 (Haywards Heath) Squadron, something to be proud of when our cadets and staff attend various activities and events. This will also support recruitment and the future growth of the squadron.
The majority of events throughout the year which are not held at the unit, will require the use of our new minibus, and we are pleased to be able to support other units by offering the vehicle and qualified drivers whenever possible.
Many of our events are posted on our main Instagram page to grow our outreach for the unit: https://www.instagram.com/172haywardsheathsquadron
Thank you to the Connaught Trust for their generous grant for the purchase of our new minibus. Our new vehicle has provided countless opportunities for our cadets to attend activities and events which will help to support our current and future generations of cadets.
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