Day four of Whitsun Camp saw 863 (Thurston) Squadron heading out for another action-packed day, this time visiting one of the RAF’s key operational stations and gaining a closer look at several specialist roles and facilities.

Day three at Whitsun Camp saw 863 (Thurston) Squadron head outdoors for a full day of fieldcraft training, giving cadets the opportunity to develop practical skills, learn new techniques and gain a greater understanding of operating effectively in an outdoor environment.

The Rickinghall Car Show brought together a lively crowd and a strong sense of spirit, thanks in large part to the dedicated support from 863 (Thurston) Squadron. The event, held at Rickinghall Village Hall on Hinderclay Road, was a day filled with fun activities, teamwork, and a shared commitment to helping others. The squadron’s cadets and adult volunteers played a vital role throughout the day, demonstrating excellent behaviour and enthusiasm that reflected well on the en

On Saturday 25 April 2026, cadets from 863 (Thurston) Squadron embarked on a full day of exploration and learning in Greenwich, a place rich with maritime history and scientific discovery.

The night began with a guided introduction to our squadron building. Cadets were shown the key rooms and facilities that they will come to know well during their training — from classrooms and stores to the parade square and social spaces.

After months of preparation, 863 (Thurston) Squadron proudly welcomed our potential new recruits to our annual Recruits Night. We had a really good showing of 20 plus, with both parents and recruits engaged throughout the evening.

Cadets from across Norfolk and Suffolk gathered at RAF Honington for a fantastic range day, where they had the opportunity to refresh their training and fire between 20 and 40 rounds on the 25-metre barrack range.

The morning air at RAF Cranwell buzzed with anticipation. For twelve cadets of 863 (Thurston) Squadron, today was no ordinary day — today, they would fly. Names were read out in groups, each one met with a mixture of nerves and excitement:

opportunity to visit the Williams Racing headquarters at Grove – home of the Williams Heritage Collection

The RAFAC aims to inspire young people to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields by offering hands-on activities, competitions, and educational resources.

nvited and hosted by the Station Commander, on 1st July 2025 I had the honour of attending the blessing ceremony for RAF Honington’s new gate guard - Tornado GR4 ('twin stick') registration ZG752.

"I was going to write 'Christmas Season is on the horizon', but it seems earlier and earlier every year, and we're in the middle of

Charlie Nunn (Lloyds Banking Group Executive Director and Group Chief Executive) has sent the message below via Mr. Byn Parry-Jones MBE

At 863 (Thurston) Squadron, we are incredibly proud of our cadets’ hard work and dedication as they reach new milestones and acquire skills

863 (Thurston) Squadron's heraldic crest depicts a flying salmon and we know the salmon works hard throughout its life cycle against all odd

In today’s world, feedback plays a crucial role in shaping the quality and direction of any organization, and 863 (Thurston) Squadron ..