A Mayday call for help has gone out from a group of air cadets.

They have been told they have to quit their headquarters next March and are desperate to find a new home.

The Witney Air Training Cadets 2120 Squadron is losing its meeting place of the past 30 years to make way for a new sports hall at the town's Henry Box School.

Ray Agg, the cadets' publicity officer, told the Oxford Mail: "It's a big blow. "Since we first got wind of it, it left us with about eight months to find somewhere else.

"We have been looking everywhere around the town and can't find anywhere that will offer a permanent home."

The squadron has been in the town for 51 years and currently has 40 cadets - boys and girls - aged between 13 and 18.

Some go on to pursue careers in the RAF, but the ATC stresses its first task is to help train teenagers in good citizenship.

The Witney squadron's headquarters are extensive, with three lecture rooms, canteen, stores and radio room. They are in a collection of temporary cabins, plus a brick-built extension.

The land, within the Henry Box school grounds, is needed for a new sports hall following a cash boost from the sale of playing field land for housing.

One hope for the squadron is a temporary solution, moving on to the vacant former Marriotts Close football ground in the centre of town.

But the land is earmarked for long-term redevelopment and the squadron needs temporary buildings. "We are appealing for help," said Mr Agg. "We have been part of the town for a long while and aim to carry on."

Anyone who can help should contact him on 01993 706741, or Ian Broadbridge on 01993 850725.

Story date: Friday 19 November

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