A TEENAGER is on cloud nine after he was awarded the Air Cadets coveted Silver Glider Pilots wings in recognition of flying solo.

Jonathan Rowles, from Witney Air Cadets, has been training to fly a motor gilder at Enstone airfield and flew nearly 20 hours under instruction and solo flight all before his first driving lesson.

Jonathan, 16, said: "I am really proud to have received my Silver Gliding Wings from the Air Cadets in recognition of the training I have completed towards my private pilot’s licence.

"I hope this will help me to achieve my ultimate goal of becoming a pilot."

The squadron aims to encourage and train young people to develop skills that can be used in every day life.

Cadets also get the chance to take part in a range of team-building activities on summer camps at RAF stations and through Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.

Squadron Commanding Officer, Flight Lieutenant Mike Caffrey praised Jonathan and his commitment.

He added: "Jonathan has shown dedication, commitment and passion for aviation.

"His solo flight is the culmination of intensive training and the award of silver glider wings is a rare event even in the Air Cadets. "Jonathan encompasses the very values of our organisation and is a shining example to all our other cadets.

"Over the next three months we have 12 hours of Air Experience Flying available for Witney Air Cadets and I hope that this will encourage and enthuse others to want to follow in Jonathan’s footsteps."