THE 187 (City of Worcester) air cadets in Worcester have been honoured as the UK's best squadron.

Air Marshal Sir Alan Lees, a senior RAF WW2 officer, presented the trophy to the Air Cadets in 1949 to be awarded annually to the squadron judged by the organisation's head, Commandant Air Cadets, to be the top unit.

The Lees Trophy is awarded to the squadron judged to be the best in overall achievement and efficiency and is the most distinguished award available to the Air Cadets.

A total of 970 squadrons across the United Kingdom competed over the past year to be in with a chance of winning the Sir Alan Lees trophy.

The competition is a three-part process where 187 first competed against 29 other local squadrons, then were pitted against the best squadrons from the region (Wales and West) before their final inspection.

The cadets performed a challenging drill routine, had a formal uniform inspection and gave a presentation about the history of the squadron.

They also showcased the skills which are useful in both military and civilian life, which they have learnt as part of a progressive training syllabus.

Worcester’s 187 Squadron includes cadets from the age of 12 to 20-year-olds and the squadron last won the annual award back in 1972.

They were told over a month ago that they were shortlisted in the top three and then Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, visited the squadron for a final inspection on Thursday, July 13.

Officer commanding 187 Squadron, Karl Nicholson, said: "Winning the Sir Alan Lees Trophy represents the culmination of hours and hours of hard work, dedication, and determination; not only from the cadets themselves, but the squadron staff, civilian committee and parents. We are absolutely thrilled to have won, and think it is fantastic that the Squadron has been recognised for its family ethos, always striving to go the extra mile and do the best we possibly can."

Alongside winning the trophy the Squadron also received a cash prize which will go towards providing the youngsters with excellent opportunities.

In the last 18 months the Squadron has seen a huge turnaround, going from three members of staff to 11 and around 16 cadets to more than 35.

The squadron is currently planning the awards ceremony and parade which will take place in Worcester city centre in the coming weeks.

To apply to become a cadet email, 187@aircadets.org.