THE sky is clearly not the limit for Redditch Air Cadets, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year.

The 216 Squadron Air Training Corps was formed in September 1984 at Holyoakes Field First School in Batchley before moving to its present HQ at the Winyates TA Centre in 1990.

Last Friday, more than 80 cadets, former cadets, staff, senior Royal Air Force officers and their families attended a ball and presentation evening at the Abbey Hotel and Country Club.

Among the former cadets were Wing Commander Colin DaSilva, from Winyates, who is now a senior officer at the Ministry of Defence in London.

Flying Officer Stephen Tonks, from Walkwood, a Hercules Pilot at RAF Lyneham, and Flying Officer Anthony Lett, from Matchborough, a trainee navigator at RAF Cranwell, were also at the event.

Squadron Commander Fl Lt Matt Onions said: "It was great to see so many ex-cadets who have done well in their chosen careers. They are a credit to the squadron and the town."

Representing the RAF's own 216 Squadron was TriStar pilot Fl Lt Mike Smith from RAF Brize Norton.

Boys and girls from the age of 13 upwards can join Redditch Air Cadets, who meet at the TA Centre, Winyates Way, Moons Moat on Monday and Thursday evenings.

Anyone interested in joining can call Flt Lt Onions on 454608.