A ST NEOTS air cadet is flying high after being nominated for a competition to find the pick of the crop of outstanding young people in Cambridgeshire.

And 16-year-old Harry Silcock aims to go even higher, with ambition to be an RAF pilot.

Harry, of The Hallards, Eaton Ford, was put forward for Ferrier Pearce Young People of the Year, by Dan Glover, his head of year at Longsands College.

Harry has been a member of 2500 (St Neots) Squadron of the Air Training Corps for more than three years, where he trains, mentors, and motivates other members.

“Harry is very committed and hard working, both at school and in everything he does,” said Mr Glover. “He is very focused.”

Harry was promoted a year ago to corporal and hopes to become a sergeant in the near future.

He is one of six corporals at the squadron, which regularly attracts 35 young people between the ages of 13-18.

Harry dedicates his time on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, welcoming and inducting new recruits, getting them into shape, and showing them the drill.

Last year he helped the Queen’s diamond jubilee celebrations in St Neots, doing some race marshalling for a fun run. He has collected money for the RAF Association wings appeal and for the Royal British Legion.

Harry, who is going for his silver stage of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: “I love the cadets. It’s rewarding to mentor the cadets and see their improvements.”

The Yopey awards celebrate young role models in Cambridgeshire and offer a cash prize to the winner.

INFORMATION: Nominations are open until July 31. To nominate visit www.yopey.org.