Award honour for air man Alan
AVOLUNTEER with the Macclesfield Air Cadets has been honoured with a special award.
Flight Lieutenant Alan Bethell, 57, was awarded Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificate of Merit in recognition of his exceptional service with 236 (Bollington) Squadron Air Cadets.
Alan began as a cadet in 1972. In 1981 he was commissioned as an adult instructor.
Over his now 42 years of service, Alan has commanded two squadrons, both of which were struggling in terms of numbers when he took over, and both of which he developed into thriving and productive units.
Alan said: “I’m surprised, pleased and proud to be nominated for this award – however, all Cadet organisations are a team effort, and I would not want to take all the credit where others are involved.”
Colonel Mark Underhill, chief executive of the North West Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association which runs the awards, said: “The LordLieutenant’s Awards give us an opportunity to recognise the selfless commitment and dedication of the men and women who serve in our nation’s Reserve Forces.
“We also recognise the achievements of the young people and adults who are members of the Cadet organisations.
“The Cadet movement offers unparalleled opportunities for young people in our region to learn, grow and excel.
“We must ensure that these opportunities continue to be accessible to young people from all backgrounds, and this is only possible with the support of the dedicated adult volunteers who deliver the quality experiences, adventure and community projects our cadets enjoy.”
Alan was presented with his award by Mr David Briggs, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Cheshire, during a ceremony at Chester Town Hall.
The annual ceremony, which celebrates the achievements of members of the Reserve Forces and Cadet organisations, saw 11 adults and young people honoured.