MILITARY training corps across the area have lowered their minimum age limit to allow friends from the same school year group to join up.

The Air Training Corps (ATC) did not previously accept anyone under the age of 13, but have altered the restriction to allow anyone from school year eight to sign up for the corps.

Flight Lieutenant Simon Cook, the Officer Commanding No.1811 (Marlow) Squadron ATC said: "This is great news, it means that pupils in year 8 at school no longer have to wait until their 13th birthday."

The ATC is the Royal Air Force's cadet force, divided into six regions, 34 wings and more than 900 squadrons within communities around the UK.

It aims to promote and encourage a practical interest in aviation and the RAF among young people and provide training which will be useful in the Services and civilian life.

The corps also sets out to encourage the spirit of adventure and develop qualities of leadership and good citizenship in a fun, exciting way.

The maximum age to join will be 17 years, although cadets can, under certain circumstances, remain cadets until they are 20.

1811 (Marlow) Squadron will be recruiting a new intake in September and any potential cadets should log on to the squadron website at www.1811atc.org.uk for details.

The Squadron, based next to the library on Institute Road, is also holding an open day on Saturday, September 13 for any girl or boy who is interested to see what the ATC does. Parents are also welcome to attend.

Other units at Penn and Beaconsfield are also recruiting and 332 (High Wycombe) squadron holding an open evening on Thursday, September 25.

To find a Squadron near you go to http://www.air-cadets-squadron-finder.org