Cadet Ross competes for place on South Africa expedition

A Dunblane cadet is competing to win a place on an expedition to South Africa.

Ross Watson, of 2284 (Dunblane) Air Training Corps, is aiming to be chosen as one of 10 finalists in the CVQO Duke of Westminster Award. He took part in a four-day selection event in Somerset last week.

These 10 finalists will win a place on an educational twoweek expedition to South Africa in July and one will be crowned the overall CVQO Duke of Westminster Award winner for 2017 at the House of Lords.

Ross, 18, was nominated because of the support he provided to a younger cadet, who was being bullied.

Though all have demonstrated their abilities within their youth groups, the candidates have all been nominated in recognition of their altruistic spirit – to help those around them, overcome personal challenges or provide help to their communities.

Ross said: “I’m going to give it my best this week and I’m really looking forward to it. Being able to go to South Africa and give something back to the people there would be amazing.”

Guy Horridge, chief executive of CVQO, said: “The CVQO Duke of Westminster Award is not about who comes first or finishes quickest; it is about demonstrating teamwork, determination and selflessness.

“We know the young people who have been nominated are great cadets. The award exists to recognise what they have done for their local communities, their families and friends. We are looking for those young people who are working hard to achieve their aspirations, overcoming whatever life has thrown at them, building a resilience and determination to succeed.”