Lovell helps local pilots of the future to build new flight simulator

The new simulator, which was built following a donation from Lovell, has been designed to help experienced pilots guide young cadets through a range of scenarios with a unique tandem cockpit- style set-up.

The building of the new simulator will allow cadets in the area to experience the challenges of 'flying' of a basic light aircraft, such as a Cessna, or hone their skills in a state-of-the-art Eurofighter jet.

Around 50 air cadets in Glastonbury's 914 Squadron, aged between 13 and 19, will be able to use the simulator.

The 914 cadets were recently named as one of the top six squadron groups in the country, beating off competition from around 1,000 groups. The squad continues to compete for top spot in the coveted Lees Trophy award for best UK squadron in the Air Training Corps.

Next week, the cadets will receive a final inspection visit from Air Commodore, Barbara Cooper CBE, which will be the final test in the competition examination.

Speaking at the launch of the new simulator, 914 Squadron's Flight Lieutenant Cris White, says: "Lovell's kind donation is a big help for the cadets in the squadron here and across the region. The flight simulator affords the cadets a genuinely realistic environment in which to train and to develop skills for the future."

Claire Westaway, community liaison officer at Lovell, says: "Whilst working with Yarlington Housing Group on its regeneration site in Curry Rivel, an opportunity arose to sponsor the build of a flight simulator for the Royal Airforce Cadet Group. Contributing towards the local community is integral to the success of any regeneration process. We are extremely proud to be involved."

The new 20-home Curry Rivel development near Yeovil is expected to be compeleted next month.