Page 11 - Town & Around - February 2025

Tel: 01485 540620 email: editor@townandaround.net Town & Around February 2025 11
42F The Place To Be

M Lister

aving been in existence for 85
years, in 2024 the staff of 42F
H(King’s Lynn) Squadron called
out to past members to find out how
being a Cadet on the Squadron had
influenced their now adult life.
Numerous past cadets responded, and
these testimonials show how anyone
thinking of becoming a cadet today, or
even joining as an adult volunteer,
could enhance their life skills and set
them up for employment in numerous
careers.
Past cadet Sam Oakes says: “I spent
almost six years as a cadet with 42F,
between 2008 and 2013, and it was one of the most transformative
experiences of my life. The squadron not only gave me the confidence
and skills I needed to excel both academically and professionally, but
it also taught me how to realise my own potential. The foundation built
at 42F set me on a course that led into the British Army and beyond.
Under the guidance of the adult staff, I gained invaluable skills,
knowledge, and confidence that laid the groundwork for a bright
future. If you are looking for a youth organisation that truly makes a
positive impact, not just on you individually, but also on the wider
community, you have found it. Even if you have no interest in a
military career, this experience will change your life in ways you can’t
imagine.”
Sam is currently the Founder and CEO of ATOVA International a
UK-registered charity dedicated to creating meaningful and sustainable
change through education, conservation, and community
empowerment. Operating in the breath-taking landscapes of North
Sumatra, Indonesia, its mission is to unite humanity as one global tribe,
working together to build a brighter more harmonious future. Look up
his web site, it will inspire you. https://www.atova.org/
Photo shows Sam in 2012 - a Cadet Sergeant with his WARMA Road
Marching medal and team award.

HUNSTANTON & DISTRICT ROTARY
CHRISTMAS TESCO COLLECTION
Jean-Marie Vernon, President, Hunstanton and
District Rotary

e would like to give a massive BIG THANK YOU to
Hunstanton Tesco who allowed us to collect at their store
Wover the Christmas period. The public were most generous
to give cash and card donations that will be used to benefit the local
community in West Norfolk. A MASSIVE THANK YOU to everyone,
who through their fantastic support enabled Rotary to collect a total of
£2,225.00. Local charities and groups are reminded that Rotary is there
to help them if they are in need.
Email: community@hunstantonrotary.co.uk