Market Drayton’s Air Cadets are inviting the local community to join them for a special Curry Night celebrating the achievements of young people, raising funds for future activities and encouraging more people to discover the opportunities available through the Royal Air Force Air Cadets.
24 (Market Drayton) Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets will host the event on Tuesday 3 November 2026, from 7pm to 9.30pm, at Oruna Cuisine, 63 Shropshire Street, Market Drayton.
The evening is being organised in partnership with the popular local restaurant, which regularly hosts fundraising nights for charities and community groups, helping good causes raise valuable funds while bringing people together over a meal.
Oruna Cuisine’s continued support for local organisations demonstrates the important role businesses can play in strengthening community connections and supporting worthwhile causes across Market Drayton.
The Curry Night will bring together cadets, families, volunteers, local businesses and supporters for an evening of food, guest speakers and fundraising, while recognising the hard work and achievements of the squadron’s young people.
Tickets cost £22 per person, with proceeds helping to support the squadron and its activities.
A proud history of inspiring young people
24 (Market Drayton) Squadron is part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation with a history stretching back more than 85 years.
The Air Training Corps was established in February 1941, during the Second World War, to encourage young people’s interest in aviation and provide training in skills associated with the Royal Air Force.
Since then, the organisation has developed into one of the country’s leading uniformed youth organisations, offering opportunities for young people to develop confidence, leadership, independence and practical skills.
Today, the Royal Air Force Air Cadets continues to inspire young people through aviation, adventure, teamwork and personal development.
For young people in Market Drayton and the surrounding villages, 24 Squadron provides an opportunity to take part in activities, make new friends and develop skills that can benefit them throughout their lives.
More than just flying
Although aviation remains central to the organisation, there is much more to being an Air Cadet than learning about aircraft.
Cadets have opportunities to experience flying and gliding, develop an understanding of aviation and aerospace, and take part in a wide range of other activities.
These can include adventure training, camping, fieldcraft, drill, sports, first aid, leadership development, STEM activities and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
The Air Cadets also encourage young people to develop teamwork, communication, problem-solving and organisational skills, helping them grow in confidence and take on new challenges.
Cadets can work towards qualifications and awards, develop friendships with young people from different backgrounds and participate in activities at local, regional and national level.
For some, the experience may inspire a future career in aviation, engineering, science or the Armed Forces. For others, it provides valuable life skills, personal achievements and memories that will stay with them for years to come.
Young people do not need any previous aviation experience to join, just enthusiasm and a willingness to try something new.
Encouraging the next generation in Market Drayton
24 (Market Drayton) Squadron is keen to welcome more young people who are interested in aviation, adventure and developing new skills.
The Air Cadets welcome young people aged 12 to 17, offering a structured and supportive environment where they can challenge themselves, build confidence and discover new interests.
The squadron is based at Hedley Way on the Buntingdale Estate in Ternhill, near Market Drayton, and meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
Joining the Air Cadets does not mean committing to a career in the Armed Forces. The organisation is open to young people from all backgrounds and aims to help every cadet achieve their potential.
With opportunities ranging from flying experiences to outdoor adventures, the squadron hopes more young people across Market Drayton and the surrounding rural communities will consider getting involved.
More adult volunteers needed
Alongside its recruitment of young cadets, the squadron is also appealing for more adult volunteers to help support its activities.
Like many community youth organisations, the Air Cadets depend on dedicated volunteers who generously give their time to provide opportunities and experiences for young people.
Adult volunteers can become involved in a variety of roles, including supporting activities, helping with administration, assisting with training and contributing their own skills and experience.
An aviation or military background is not essential, and the organisation provides opportunities for volunteers to develop new skills and undertake training.
Volunteering can be a rewarding experience, offering the chance to meet new people, become part of a supportive team and make a lasting difference to young people’s lives.
By encouraging more adults to get involved, the squadron hopes to strengthen its activities and continue providing valuable opportunities for future generations of Market Drayton cadets.
Local businesses invited to support fundraising raffle
The Curry Night will also include a fundraising raffle, with businesses across Market Drayton being invited to contribute prizes.
The squadron hopes local shops, restaurants, cafés and other businesses will support the event by donating vouchers, gifts, experiences or other suitable prizes.
The raffle will help raise funds for the squadron while also providing an opportunity to recognise and promote the businesses that support young people and community organisations in the town.
Organisers hope the initiative will encourage stronger links between the squadron and the local business community, demonstrating how even small contributions can help create opportunities for young people.
The partnership with Oruna Cuisine is itself an example of this community spirit, with the restaurant continuing its tradition of hosting fundraising evenings for local charities and good causes.
By bringing together local businesses, residents and volunteers, the event aims to raise awareness of the important work undertaken by the Air Cadets while generating valuable support for their future activities.
A chance to celebrate and get involved
The Curry Night will provide an opportunity for the wider community to learn more about 24 (Market Drayton) Squadron, celebrate the achievements of its cadets and discover how they can support the organisation.
With guest speakers, raffle prizes and an evening of food and conversation, organisers hope the event will be an enjoyable celebration of the young people who are part of the squadron.
It is also hoped that the evening will inspire more young people to consider joining the Air Cadets and encourage adults to explore the rewarding opportunities available through volunteering.
The event takes place on Tuesday 3 November 2026, from 7pm to 9.30pm, at Oruna Cuisine, 63 Shropshire Street, Market Drayton, TF9 3DA.
Tickets cost £22 per person. To book a place, email sinead.seviour100@rafac.mod.gov.uk.
Anyone interested in finding out more about joining the Air Cadets or becoming an adult volunteer can visit www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets or contact their local squadron.
With the support of Oruna Cuisine, local businesses and the wider community, 24 (Market Drayton) Squadron hopes the evening will help raise both funds and awareness, ensuring more young people have the opportunity to reach for the stars.
