Army Cadet Force chiefs in Leeds and Wakefield have launched an urgent appeal for more adult volunteers to sign up as the service struggles to cope with booming demand.
They are seeking volunteers to step in and act as instructors at their local detachment to support the region’s 1,500 cadets.
Volunteers help out with adventure training and at weekend camps and parade evenings.
Colonel Malcolm Render MBE, Commandant for Yorkshire North and West Army Cadet Force, said: “The Army Cadet Force is one of the most prestigious youth organisations in the country.
“Its popularity means we need more adult instructors to lead the cadets and deliver the quality of experiences, adventures and community projects – including the Duke of Edinburgh award – which our cadets enjoy.
“You don’t need any military experience to become an instructor and you can even gain qualifications that will help you in your workplace.
“We’d love to hear from people who are willing to offer their time and enthusiasm to join our ranks as an adult instructor.”
Cadet detcahmemnts seeking volunters include Castleford, Harewood, New Carlton, Seacroft, Towerhurst, Woodlesford, Yeadon, Otley, Thornbury and Batley.
Cadet Lance Corporal Vicky Bradley, 17, who has been a cadet at Castleford detachment for four years, said: “I love every minute of being a cadet.
“The Army Cadet Force is a great place to make new friends, develop skills and enjoy fantastic 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 the detachment will struggle to provide the quality of training and opportunities for other cadets like me.”
For more information on becoming an adult volunteer, call 01904 490529 or visit: www.rfca-yorkshire.org.uk/rfca/vacancies
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