Vince Cable

There have been worries that the Twickenham RAF (267) Cadet Squadron, based in Fulwell, may be forced to close and its popular military band put at risk. A meeting was held in Twickenham recently with the Chief of Staff of the Air Cadets, Group Capt Evans, Vincent Cable MP and the local Squadron to find a way forward.

It is being proposed that the Squadron - which has an active membership of over 30 young people - quit their premises next to Strawberry Hill Golf Club and to collocate with the Territorial Army (TA) in London Road, Twickenham, in a new purpose built centre to be built there.

Vincent Cable said: "The Squadron is a popular and valuable group for young people, which provides not only a career path to the RAF but teaches useful skills. The young musicians in the military band are a regular feature of local ceremonial events including Remembrance Day. It would be a very sad day if the group were put at risk.

"Where we finished up was an understanding that the Squadron would have to move because the present hut is not fit for purpose but, also, that the Strawberry Hill Golf Club, from whom the squadron leases the site, were not prepared to renew the Lease. Building on the joint facility is likely to start soon and take 12 months to complete. Meanwhile, it is vital that the Squadron is able to continue to function, to be able to carry out all its current activities and to have access to the facilities it currently enjoys. I was also assured that every effort would be made to enable the Squadron's band to continue to be able to practice regularly and to remain intact. The possibility of linking with Kneller Hall was mooted and will be pursued."