Over 100 Royal Air Force Air Cadets enjoyed an awesome ski week in Germany this month.

Amazing weather and excellent snow helped the cadets make quick progress under the guidance of qualified RAF Air Cadet instructors and leaders who volunteered to help. Cadets who started as complete beginners competently skied a variety of runs by the end of the week. Experienced cadets were given more advanced lessons in a snow park.

Exercise Alpine Adventure, organised since 1998 by Bristol and Gloucestershire Wing ATC, this year involved cadets from as far afield as Inverness and Jersey.

Exercise Commander, Squadron Leader Jim Brimble said “Alpine skiing builds cadets’ confidence. The exercise also enables them to make new friends with fellow cadets from twelve different wings.”

This year Exercise Alpine Adventure said farewell to Wing Commander Barney Bruce, now a Civilian Instructor, who started the event as Bristol and Gloucestershire Wing’s Administration Officer. Barney has attended every year and taught hundreds of cadets to ski. In honour of his commitment a new trophy will be presented to the cadet assessed to have put in the most effort. This year the Barney Bruce Trophy was presented to a cadet sergeant from Kent Wing.

Lots of great feedback has been received from the cadets and their parents, with many hoping to return! Planning has already started for Exercise Alpine Adventure 2020.