The army cadet force officially arrived in Cambourne near Cambridge on Thursday 21^st May 2009, when their newest detachment was declared open by Major Steve Martin the area commander.

Founders of Cambourne Detachment (L-R)  Captain Steve Swann, Major Steve Martin, L/Cpl Scott Conway (17), L/Cpl Catherine  McKeever (16), Cpl Alex Rootes (17), Sergeant Major Instructor Russ Guymer

Following talks between local army cadet leaders and Cambourne Youth Partnership, an agreement was reached earlier in the month which benefits all young people living in the area who are aged between 12 and 18. Cambridgeshire Amy Cadet Force, which is part of a national voluntary youth organization sponsored by the British Army, will provide challenging and adventurous activities for local young people at the Cambourne Soul Building in Back Lane each Thursday evening between 7.30pm and 9.30pm.  All are welcome and there are even vacancies for adult helpers aged up to 55.

 

Initially there will be 10 army cadets at the new detachment who will help and guide new members. A free uniform will be provided to each new cadet and in addition to training sessions in basic military subjects young people will also have chance to take part in a whole range of exciting outdoor pursuits including the Duke of Edinburgh’s award. For those who would like to achieve some qualifications recognised by future employers, BTEC certificates - each equivalent to four GCSE exams - will also be available through cadet force membership.

 

“This is a great opportunity for people living in and around Cambourne”, said Captain Steve Swann, who is second in command of the area. “This new detachment brings exciting activities and adventure, not just for young people but also for adults who wish to take part”

 

-  And the cadets are here to stay. On 27 June the cadet Corps of Drums and many other cadets from surrounding areas will be taking an active part in the local festival to mark Cambourne’s tenth anniversary which also coincides with national Armed Forces Day.

 

Once grants and funding have been agreed for a new Cambourne Community Centre it is hoped that the detachment will find a more permanent home. But as there needs to be a minimum of 15 cadets attending each week to keep a detachment viable the hunt is already on for new recruits!  So if you are aged 12 to 18 and looking for fun, adventure and excitement, come along to Cambourne Soul in Back Lane on a Thursday evening and try it out – and don’t forget– there are places for adult helpers too. No experience is necessary and all training is provided.