A Wells Air Cadets veteran has hung up his uniform for the last time after more than 50 years’ service.

Flight Lieutenant John Heath joined the 1955 (City of Wells) Squadron in 1971 because he was interested in aircraft. His father had been a cadet there and a national serviceman in the RAF. 

He was part of the ATC as a cadet, civilian instructor, and as commanding officer of the squadron for 23 years - which must be some sort of record. 

His long-standing ATC colleague Flight Lieutenant John Blackburn said: "John was a massive influence on my life, without him I would never have been part of this amazing organisation. 

“The number of young people he's inspired to go onto better things must number in the thousands - he will be greatly missed by the squadron, and the organisation has lost one of its best."

John Heath said: “The Air Cadets helped to shape me more than school ever did and today the values of developing others with an interest in aviation, adventure and friendships still hold strong. There are not many organisations where you can go fully aerobatic in an aircraft on your first flight, and the flying is free. 

“My top memories are of seeing cadets’ smiling faces after an event, first flights, first awards, looking smart in Wells on parade, looking on in wonder at a group of teenagers who are doing themselves and Wells proud. Seeing young people develop and be part of their journey is a privilege.”

Now retired, John is volunteering as a Wells Ambassador and a WCN trishaw pilot.