Cadet Sergeant Dan Garlick joined cadets from 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Squadron during their practise Gold Duke of Edinburgh in the Lake District in Cumbria.

Sergeant Garlick was lucky to be offered the chance to join the group and becomes the first cadet to participate in the Gold Award for 6 years at 1181 Squadron.

The cadets travelled with a camp bound for the National Air Cadet Adventure Training Centre at Windermere, later taking to the Langdales to complete a 3 day expedition.

Torrential rain did not stop the cadets taking to the peaks with CI Brian Libby of 2070 (Glenfield) Squadron, on a micro navigation exercise, to get cadets up to speed before their expedition. The cadets successfully navigated themselves, using the techniques learnt in the thick fog and heavy rain.

 After spending two nights at the centre, the real expedition began. Starting at the base in Windermere, the team followed Lake Windermere finishing for their first night under canvas at a camp site near Elterwater. Waterproofs became an essential after the continuous down poor throughout the day and through the night.

Wet kit did not dampen the spirits of the group as they endured their largest climb of the walk. The highlight of the day was an exploded sheep especially for the boys in the group, although the girls were not impressed.

Day 3 saw the team walk through the picturesque woodlands surrounding Derwent Water, whilst heading for Keswick.

Sgt Garlick was not the only cadet taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Cadets Setchell, Williams, Miller and Harkison joined 198 (Hinkley) and 29F (Rugby) Sqns from Warwick & Birmingham Wing on Bronze practice and full expeditions.

This expedition was possible thanks to the hard work of Sgt (ATC) Ison of Rugby squadron who volunteered to help 1181 Squadron, whilst they suffered from a lack of qualified staff.