Warrant Officer Bob Vickers from Lisburn receives his award and congratulations from Lord O'Neill, Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for the County of Antrim. US1908-

NUMBER of local volunteers have received some of the highest honours that can be accorded to Reservists and Cadets in a ceremony at Hillsborough Castle.

Flight Lieutenant Ian Campbell from Hillsborough was recognised for his outstanding work as an Adult instructor, introducing young people to the thrill of flying and the opportunities of the Air Training

He was presented with a Lord Lieutenant's Certificate of Merit in recognition of the outstanding contribution he has made during his service, an honour second in prestige only to recognition by the Queen.

Warrant Officer Bob Vickers from Lisburn was recognised for his role with the TA. His citation describes him as being 'renowned as one of the most conscientious and hard working individuals in his unit,' and that he is 'a shining example of the volunteer ethos."

Stewart Mitchell who will serve as the Lord Lieutenant's Cadet for the County of Down receives his award from Colonel Hall.	Flight Lieutenant Ian Campbell, who serves with the Volunteer Gliding Squadron, receives his Award from Colonel William Hall, Her Majesty's Lord Lieutenant for the County of Down.

Dromara teenager Cadet Flight Sergeant Stewart Mitchell was also honoured at the ceremony. Stewart, who is a student with Belfast Metropolitan College, has already

in the Cadet movement, having completed the Wing NCO Leadership course, a BTEC in Public Service and the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Stewart will serve as Lord Lieutenant's Cadet for the County of Down. Just nine Cadets across Northern Ireland are appointed to serve the Lords Lieutenant in an honorary capacity on official and ceremonial occasions. The post is held for a year and each Cadet is permitted to wear a special insignia in recognition of the role.

stacey.heaney@jpress.co.uk

Ulster Star
30/05/2008