The housebuilder donated £250 to help purchase new outdoor training equipment and uniforms for the Cadets of 2466 (Loanhead) Squadron, who range in ages from 12-18 years old.

Squadron commander, flying officer Steve Parry, said: “We originally wrote to Dandara to ask if they would like to make a small donation to sponsor a race at a recent charity event and were so pleased when they generously offered to give us £250 instead.

“The money will be put to good use helping buy new equipment and uniforms for the Squadron. Although the Royal Air Force provides our blue uniform, we also need MTP (multi-terrain pattern) for activities like leadership, fieldcraft and first aid lessons, really anything where the team are likely to get muddy.”

The Loanhead-based Squadron offers a wide range of activities from flying and gliding to qualifications in aviation studies, along with Duke of Edinburgh Award training and expeditions.

Flying officer Parry added: “The Air Cadets teach young people about the importance of effective leadership and citizenship, offering a chance to learn new things and make new friends out with school.

“Much of our training maps to SPA and vocational qualifications giving our cadets a great foundation to build on whether they decide to go to university, start work or join the RAF.”

Lisa Archibald, head of sales at Dandara East Scotland, said: “The Air Cadets do a fantastic job teaching young people about the importance of bravery, discipline, teamwork and resilience, lessons that are so important for us all after the pandemic. We were pleased to give them this donation and wish them every success.”

Dandara is currently selling new homes at Ashgrove in Straiton, which is just a few minutes away from Loanhead.