A GROUP of teenage Air Cadets are celebrating after achieving their solo gliding wings before being old enough to take their driving tests.

The four Hartlepool cadets have all completed Gliding Scholarships provided free by the Air Training Corps (ATC).

By earning their wings Sergeant John Dickinson, 17, Corporal Daniel Keay, 15, Cadet David Gray, 17, and Cadet Anthony Frank, 16, are qualified to pilot gliders solo and are eligible to progress to higher levels.

"Landing was the most difficult challenge to learn," said Sgt Dickinson, a student at Hartlepool College of Further Education.

"I am now looking forward to getting my pilot's licence for microlights and light aircraft.

"I really enjoy being part of the ATC because of all the things I would not otherwise get the chance to do."

The Air Cadet Organization operates the largest gliding school in the world with its own fleet of aircraft as well as offering a range of other flying and ground-based opportunities to cadets and adults alike.

Flying Officer Iain Jenkins said: "All at 473 (Hartlepool) Squadron are very pleased to see these cadets progress - it is certainly a major accomplishment of which they should be justifiably proud.

"I am positive that this will only be the beginning though, as these cadets have already signed up for other courses and encouraged others to do likewise.

"There are a great many opportunities for people within the Air Cadets and its great to see our members make the most of them."