Air Cadet On Course To Be Britain's Youngest Pilot

An air cadet is on course to become Britain's youngest pilot, even before reaching the age that would allow him to drive. 

15-year-old Corporal Joe Sutherland been learning to fly since he was 12 – funding his lessons through window cleaning, gardening and washing cars.

He already has all the flying hours required but now all he needs is to be a few months older to become Britain's youngest pilot. 

Corporal Sutherland has been a part of the air cadets for 3-and-a-half years, which he says has played a big part of his life: "I wanted to join the RAF from a very young age I joined the air cadets and I've got quite a lot out of it over the 3-and-a-half years I've been here.

"You can often see them (other cadets) as family.

"My family are really happy for me -proud.

"I've taken my mum, my dad and nan up...my mum was a bit scared at first...my nan loved it!

"I've got a few people at at school that keep asking me to take them up all the time."

Flight Lieutenant Steven Lambert, Officer Commanding 103 Doncaster Squadron, said:

"Ever since he's (Corporal Sutherland) joined, he's tried his hardest to do his best at everything he does.

"He's a very driven and professional young man and an excellent cadet."

Also part of the cadets is Flight Sergeant Sam, who also praised Corporal Sutherland:

"So chuffed for him, such a talented boy - honestly an unbelievable friend." 

103 Doncaster Squadron have been preparing their drills for Armed Forces Day this weekend as Corporal Sutherland continues to look forward to his 16th birthday.