295 Squdron's new minibus - dedicated to Cadet Harry Robinson
Witham Air Cadets have recently taken delivery of their new minibus following a long fundraising campaign. The minibus is the first vehicle the Squadron has owned and will be used to transport Cadets from Witham to events such as Flying, Gliding, Adventure Training and Camps.
Fundraising for the bus began in December 2009 with 5 days of festive bag-packing at the Witham Tesco store which raised over £2500 towards the project; most noted for his effort at the time was 13 year old Cadet Harry Robinson who attended all 5 consecutive days.
On 7th January 2010 Harry tragically died and his loss was, and is still greatly felt by his family, friends and all at the Squadron.
Since the loss of Harry the Squadron has dedicated its fundraising campaign to Harry’s memory and the unit has since raised over £10,000 towards the ‘Harry Robinson Memorial Minibus Fund’; shortened to the ‘H Bus’ due to Harry’s nickname on the Squadron.
At the end of July 2011 the Squadron found a suitable vehicle to support its activities and purchased a 2007 minibus from the Colchester Van Monster garage at just over £10,000.
Our new minibus attended its first event – supporting a Summer Camp in early August and has been well received by the Cadets, Parents and Staff at Witham Air Cadets.
Flight Lieutenant Mat Moakes, Officer Commanding, Witham Air Cadets said; ‘It’s great for the Squadron to finally have its own vehicle and this will enable us to offer even more activities to our Cadets. It’s also a fitting tribute to Harry and the Squadron would like to thank all those who donated to the campaign.’
