CORPORAL Colin Fish from Ludlow Air Cadets will soon be on his way to the Netherlands to take part in a physical and mental challenge.

Colin, along with his team-mates from Air Cadet units in Worcestershire and the West Midlands, will be taking part in the 99th International Four Day March in Nijmegen, Holland.

As part of the British Military Contingent the cadets will march a total of 100 miles over four days and will also enjoy the festivities associated with the event which over the years has become one of the largest in the country drawing crowds of up to one million people.

Having already completed a 50 mile march at RAF Cosford in April and many training marches, Colin is relishing the challenge and believes that he may be the only Air Cadet from Shropshire taking part in the event this year.

“I am really looking forward to flying the flag for Shropshire and will be carrying one with me during the marching," he said. "We have all been training hard and can’t wait to get started for real.”

Only one other Air Cadet from Ludlow, Aircraftman Jon Blower, has completed the Nijmegen March and now is a member of the Royal Air Force. He did this in March 2011.

His advice to Colin is just to relax and enjoy the occasion

“The atmosphere is amazing and the crowds of spectators give you such a boost especially when you are tired at the end of the day, giving you drinks and snacks as you go along,” said Mr Blower.

“It is a fantastic challenge but well worth all the effort.”

The Air Cadet Organisation is open to young people aged from 12 to 18 and adults who may be interested in becoming instructors.

Ludlow Air Cadets meet at their HQ in Smithfield Car Park on Tuesday and Friday evenings from 7pm.

For more information contact the Squadron Commander, Warrant Officer Maureen Daw, on oc.333@aircadets.org