THREE air cadets are recovering after taking part in the Death March – a 100km walk to be completed in less than 24 hours. The teenagers, all members of 1066 (Hitchin) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC), travelled to Belgium to join almost 9,000 people tak

THREE air cadets are recovering after taking part in the Death March - a 100km walk to be completed in less than 24 hours.

The teenagers, all members of 1066 (Hitchin) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC), travelled to Belgium to join almost 9,000 people taking part in the trek.

Flt Lt Erica Vey and Sgt Kenji Kemp, both 17, managed to complete the march for the second year running.

However, their efforts were not without problems as both endured blisters and found the march harder than the previous year, partly due to rainfall during the night.

Flt Sgt Christopher Moore, 16, managed to walk 77km before injury stopped him from completing the journey.

The trio were part of a team of nine walkers from Herts and Bucks Wing Air Training Corps.

Flt Lt Vey said: "The march is the toughest event we can participate in as members of the ATC.

"The event is extremely demanding particularly due to the lack of sleep and the level of stamina and determination needed if walkers are to finish the event."

In other news, the ATC has been handed a coaching kit and equipment by Barclays Bank as part of its grassroots sports programme, Barclays Spaces for Sports.

The equipment includes training bibs, water bottles and holders, fleeces, jackets, clipboards and whistles.

Flt Lt Vey said 'We are extremely lucky to have been awarded a coaching pack.

"These items will assist the squadron a great deal and we are very grateful to Barclays for selecting 1066 to receive one of the packs."

The Hitchin squadron is currently looking for new members aged 13 to 17. It meets on Mondays and Thursdays at the TA centre in Bedford Road.

Call 01462 436805 or visit www.hitchinaircadets.co.uk for more information.