BRANCHES of the Army Cadet Force in Thirsk, Stokesley and Northallerton are appealing for more adult volunteers to support 71 cadets attending the units.

As new cadets continue to sign up, the force’s adult instructors are struggling to keep up with demand and say they need up to 12 more adults to help the centres’ nine volunteers provide a full range of activities for the cadets and to cover holidays and sickness.

The cadet detachments are among 46 across North and West Yorkshire offering children weekend camps, adventurous training and parade evenings, in addition to the chance to earn qualifications and awards.

Cadet Euan French, from Stokesley, said: “The Army Cadet Force is a great place to make new friends, develop skills and enjoy experiences that many other people my age rarely get the chance to do.

“But the whole unit can only exist if we continue to have enough adult volunteers. Without them we will struggle to continue providing quality training and opportunities for other cadets like me.”

Matthew Guy, a volunteer instructor at the detachment, said he had found volunteering with the cadet force a rewarding experience.

He said: “Besides having the opportunity to play a leading role in the development of young people, it’s also a terrific way to take part in a range of exciting military-orientated pursuits, from training weekends and summer camp holidays, to white-water rafting and rock climbing.

“You don’t need any military experience to become an instructor and you can even gain qualifications that may help you in your workplace.”

For details, visit armycadets.com or enquire at your local detachment.