THE sky really is the limit for teenagers who belong to the 1005 (Radcliffe, Whitefield and Prestwich) Squadron of the Air training Corps.

Generations of 13 to 21-year-olds have experienced the thrills of cadet life since the squadron was established in 1942.

And the squadron is still going strong today, with almost 50 boys and girls among its ranks.

Each Tuesday and Thursday evening between 7.15pm and 9.30pm they don their neatly pressed uniforms (which are supplied free) to learn about the kind of activities that are guaranteed to send the pulse raising.

By the age of 14, members can start adventure training in the Lake District or the wilds of Wales and may learn how to abseil or rock climb. It is also the age that training begins for the coveted ATC Marksman badge and by 15 you could become an officially recognised RAF marksman! Within three months of joining you can fly in RAF aircraft and take control on your first flight. Soon you will be taught how to do aerobatics and, at the age of 16, you can fly solo in a glider. Exchange trips to bases in Europe, Hong Kong, Israel, India and America are possible and you can also learn hang-gliding, skiing and parachuting.

But it's not just high adrenaline thrills that are on offer because back at the headquarters members learn the technical ins and outs of radio skills, map reading and even the layout of a cockpit thanks to the squadron's own mock up.

Flt Lt Roy Cross said: "Although the syllabus is based around flying and adventure training, we also teach sailing and canoeing as well as fieldcraft and assault course training."

He added: "It's a great way of developing a sense of pride and enjoyment and can lead to formal qualifications and certificates and excellent references for future employment. But it's also very enjoyable and we have plenty of social events.

"We always welcome new members. I would say that the ATC is much more fun than hanging around street corners, so come along and have a look. You have got nothing to lose and everything to gain!"

If you are interested in joining you can go along to either of the bi-weekly nights at the headquarters which is situated in the hut at the rear of the garage on Knowles Street, Radcliffe. Alternatively you can call Mr Cross on 07990 805 278.