Delighted air cadets got the chance to chat to a high-flying hero called Red 10.

Following the exciting Red Arrows display at Dartmouth regatta, youngsters from the town along with air cadets from Totnes, Brixham and Torquay had the chance to meet Squadron Leader Mike Ling – the aerobatic's team road manager, codenamed Red 10.

He chatted to the air cadets who had helped out at the huge regatta – collecting for the committee and manning the cadets' information gazebo.

Squadron Leader Ling took time out during his busy schedule at Dartmouth presenting and commentating on the Red Arrows display, before heading to his helicopter transport to take him to Bournemouth where the Red Arrows were based for their summer displays.

The cadets were surprised by this visit and asked various questions, one asking how the Red Arrows planned the displays within the geographical constraints of Dartmouth. It was explained that it was a challenging and fulfilling exercise but easily overcome with the level of training the Red Arrows undertake.

Flight Lieutenant Chris Perkins, of the RAF Volunteer Reserve, who supervised the cadets, said: 'We had many compliments of the turnout of the cadets and their politeness and positive attitude, and I was pleased that Squadron Leader Mike Ling took the time to talk to the cadets, even though his schedule was tight.'