CCF Inspection Day welcomes Regional Commandant of London and South-East Region

A total of 200 Tonbridge cadets took part in the School’s annual CCF Inspection Day on Wednesday 18 March 2026.

This year’s parade was attended by parents, staff and friends, who welcomed Group Captain Kevin Walton, Regional Commandant of the London and South-East Region, as Inspecting Officer. A former RAF air traffic control officer, Group Captain Walton has served operational tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and brings extensive leadership experience from both military and civilian roles.

The Honour Guard was commanded by Cadet RSM Butcher (PS5), with cadets delivering a disciplined and impressive parade, inspection and march-past.

Following the parade, cadets and guests enjoyed a wide range of activities and displays across the School site. Visiting units included the 4th Battalion Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment and The Queen’s Royal Hussars, led by Old Tonbridgian Tom Willis (JH 14-19). The three emergency services were also in attendance, offering equipment and vehicle displays.

Cadets participated in a varied programme of activities, including field gun runs, virtual reality flight simulators, archery tag, laser tag, .22 target shooting, a Royal Navy compartment clearing simulator, raft building and a cadet boat display. Additional highlights included a SCUBA diving experience and a display of military vehicles and equipment.

The day concluded with the CCF Annual Dinner, where the Inspecting Officer addressed cadets and presented prizes. Award winners were as follows:

The Wilson Trophy (RAF Cadet): CWO Barr (Sc5)
The Dougall Trophy (Army Cadet): Cdt RSM Smith (SH5)
The Tennant Bell (RN Cadet): Cdt WO1 Tinker (WH5)
The Brennan Trophy (Best Cadet in the Guard): Cdt WO2 Ben Sheppard (Sc5)
The Paterson Sword: Cdt RSM Butcher (PS5)