Heather attended a Freedom of The District Parade held by 1211 (Swadlincote) Squadron Air Training Corps, the South Derbyshire unit of the RAF Air Cadets, recently in Swadlincote.
The Freedom of the District of South Derbyshire was awarded in 2017 and is the highest honour the District Council can bestow. The title of Honorary Freeman is recognition of the work done by 1211 to help future generations to prosper, as well as the tireless work carried out in local communities.
The award means that the cadets have freedom of entry into the District on ‘all ceremonial occasions with colours flying and bands playing’; something the squadron did in great style in front of the Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, local MP, Mrs Heather Wheeler OBE MP and the Chair of South Derbyshire District Council, Cllr Sean Bambrick.
The Freedom of South Derbyshire has only been awarded twice before, to former District Councillor Bill Dunn and the Mercian Regiment.
Heather Wheeler OBE MP says: “I am honestly not surprised that South Derbyshire’s air cadet squadron has achieved so much, not only being presented with ‘Freedom of The District’ but the Best Unit in the organisation twice.
“South Derbyshire is a great place for opportunities, as shown by the Freedom Parade. With many different organisations like the Royal Air Force Air Cadets or other local groups doing what they do best by giving the younger generation ambition to strive for excellence. I was honoured to see the future of South Derbyshire at this special Parade in Swadlincote.”
Sqn Ldr Ruth Morgan, Squadron Commander, said:
“It was a very proud moment to be granted the freedom of South Derbyshire in 2017, and fitting recognition of the work we do in the heart of the local community and developing young people, something we pride ourselves on.
“We continue to keep supporting Swadlincote and South Derbyshire and fully intend to make the most of the opportunity to parade with colours flying and bands playing for many years to come. It’s a great opportunity to showcase the many talents of the young people of the District and we’re grateful for the support of the local community and dignitaries alike.”
