A Renfrewshire-based cadet volunteer has been recognised with a prestigious award after being nominated by the young people he supports.
Civilian Instructor Aidan Warren, from 49F Greenock Squadron Air Training Corps, was named Air Cadets West winner at the 2025 Cadet Adult Recognition Awards (CARAs), which celebrate the dedication of adult volunteers across the Cadet Forces.
The awards, now in their sixth year, recognise Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who give their time to support young people aged 12 to 18, helping them develop new skills, confidence and lifelong friendships. All nominations are submitted by cadets themselves.
Speaking after receiving the award, CI Warren said: “I’m over the moon that I’ve won this award, and to know that I’ve helped some of the young people in my unit get to where they want to be in life is the best feeling in the world.”
The CARAs are run by Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association, which has hosted the awards annually since 2020. This year’s ceremony was held online on Friday 5th December and streamed on YouTube.
Awards were presented from the Royal Hospital Chelsea by National Army Cadet Ambassador, Army veteran and mental health activist Sally Orange MBE.
She praised volunteers across the country, saying Cadet Force Adult Volunteers dedicate their time and energy week in and week out to support young people, adding that without them the Air, Army and Sea Cadets could not continue their work.
Almost 100 nominations were received for the 2025 awards, highlighting the strong appreciation cadets have for their instructors. Each winner received a CARAs certificate along with a gift voucher sponsored by a local forces-friendly business.
A full list of 2025 CARAs winners is available through Lowland RFCA. Anyone interested in becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer can find their local unit via the Find a Unit page at www.lowlandrfca.org.uk.
Headline image: Aidan Warren