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It’s not everyday a Chinook helicopter lands in Blackwood – but locals were stunned to watch the military vehicle land at the Showfield last night.

Royal Air Force No18 Squadron landed the lift and support aircraft to give local cadets an experience they won’t forget with a flight around the south Wales Valleys.

Cadets from 277 Blackwood; 2167 Tredegar and Rhymney; 1158 Ebbw Vale; 1223 Caerphilly; 2353 Ystrad Mynach; 1344 Cardiff and 275 Nantyglo & Blaina, all took part in the flight.

In a Facebook post, No 1 Welsh Wing, which covers cadet squadrons in south Wales, said: “Sorry if we made a bit of noise but I’m sure you will agree the smiles on the cadets faces is well worth it.

“Well done to all the staff that organised this opportunity for our cadets, and we look forward to all the other activities that are coming up.”