A North Yorkshire RAF Air Cadet has spoken of her pride after completing a gruelling 50-mile Duke of Edinburgh's Award Gold expedition across the Yorkshire Dales.
Flight Sergeant Meg Hall, of 2040 (Richmond) Squadron RAF Air Cadets, was among 17 young people from the North of England who finished the four-day trek, carrying all their supplies and charting their own course through the Dales.
Their journey began in Redmire near Leyburn and passed through Wensley, Horsehouse, Buckden, Arncliffe, and Malham.
Gold DofE Cadet Flight Sergeant Meg Hall with Meg the Border Collie
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Ms Hall said: "The expedition was challenging but very rewarding, and I would encourage all young people to get involved with the award – we have gained fantastic skills and had a great experience."
The group included seven cadets from the Yorkshire and Humber region and faced varied conditions, from "sunshine and warmth" to "two days of heavy rain and wind," according to a press release.
Other cadets from the region who took part included Cadet Warrant Officer Jake Lacey and Sergeant Bradley Marson from 1053 (Armthorpe) Squadron, Corporal Harvey Waring from 110 (City of York) Squadron, Flight Sergeant Laila Poddar from 2527 (Lawnswood) Squadron, Cadet Reuben Turner from 886 (City of Ripon) Squadron, and Flight Sergeant Oliver Kutny from 59 (Huddersfield) Squadron.
The team in the rain at Malham Cove
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The cadets had completed a practice expedition on the North Yorkshire Moors in early July.
Their Dales route included scenic landmarks such as Buckden Pike, Malham Cove, and Gordale Scar.
Squadron Leader Charlotte Bridges, regional Duke of Edinburgh’s Award officer, praised the cadets for their effort and teamwork.
At Malham Tarn
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She said: "The cadets worked hard to prepare for the expeditions, planning their routes and kit.
"They encountered all weathers during their expedition but worked together to ensure the whole team completed the expeditions."
Once they have completed all four sections of the award, they will be eligible to attend a ceremony and garden party at Buckingham Palace to receive their certificates and badges.
Squadron Leader Bridges said this is a highlight many of the cadets are now "looking forward to," marking the culmination of months of hard work and perseverance.
Gold DofE Cadet Flight Sergeant Meg Hall with Meg the Border Collie
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Gold DofE All participants with Sqn Ldr Charlotte Bridges on completion
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Gold DofE Yorkshire and the Humber Cadets
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