Despite having its budget slashed by the Ministry of Defence in the last two years, the Shropshire Army Cadet Force continues to operate at record numbers – with 560 active cadets in the county.
There are 22 detachments in Shropshire including Shrewsbury groups in Belle Vue, Harlescott and at the headquarters in Copthorne Barracks, with around 30 members attending up to twice a week.
Celebrating the anniversary at the Shropshire ACF’s training base in Nesscliffe.
This year marks the 150th anniversary since Lady Octavia Hill set up the first Army Cadet Force (ACF) on Castle Green in Nottingham.
The hundreds of local cadets have been holding a host of activities to commemorate the landmark birthday which included members marching through the streets of Shrewsbury in June before attending a reception at Shrewsbury Castle and Copthorne Barracks.
The 12 to 18-year-olds will be planting trees and burying artifacts in time-capsules this month while adult volunteers, who form the backbone to the youth movement, will be producing special brochures detailing the 150th birthday celebrations.
Julie Breeze, press officer for Shropshire ACF, said: “We have about two or three trained adult volunteers for each detachment and what we find is that a lot of people who leave us at 18 then come back as volunteers. You do get so involved with it and it’s very inspiring.”
Many cadets also use it as a stepping stone to the armed forces and are helped along the way by taking part activities such as army camps, target shooting, kayaking, rock climbing, cycling, first aid sessions as well as tackling obstacle courses.
And although the main traditions of Shropshire ACF have stayed at the forefront over the years it is clear to see that interest remains high because of the huge variety of activities still on offer.
“I would say membership has generally increased over the years and with the equipment now available there is more variety than ever. The budget cuts through the MoD have affected us and we can’t do as much public engagement as we used to – but we have absolutely maintained a high level through the tough times.
“Tradition is still very much a part of the cadets and they have to be able to respond to discipline and understand that they are going to have to take orders. We get some people who come in very shy but it makes such a difference to their personalities and eventually they are able to take on more responsibility and pass on their skills to new recruits.”
Cadets are loaned army uniforms while they are part of a detachment and in an introduction to army life members are awarded promotions during their time – sometimes ending up as corporals or lance corporals. “We’ve gone through a couple of very tough years but if we still get the dedication from the adult volunteers and keep giving the youngsters skills for life then I see no reason why we can’t run for another 150 years,” added Julie.
For such a popular and established youth movement it is hard to disagree with that statement.
To enquire about joining call Copthorne Barracks on 01743 231779 or visit www.shropshireacf.org.uk
by David Seadon