Cadets from Wisbech, March and Whittlesey have just returned from a challenging annual camp at St Martin’s Plain Camp, Folkestone.

The cadets, aged 13 years to 18 years, joined 275 other Cambridgeshire Army Cadets from detachments across the county.

Annual camp is the highlight of the cadet year when all training learnt at local detachments is put into practice. In addition it provides the opportunity to experience new activities and adventures.

Highlight of this year was cadets being airlifted to the training areas by two Chinook helicopters. The experience was one they will remember for the rest of their lives.

The training package included navigation across the Kent countryside, living in the field for up to three days under a self-built “basha” and cooking rations from a 24 army ration pack, target shooting, clay pigeon shooting and signals training.

With a focus on World War One the senior cadets undertook a visit to war graves around Ypres, Belgium, take part in the Menin Gate Parade and laying a wreath at Tyne Cot Cemetery in remembrance of the men of the Cambridgeshire Regiment.

After taking part in the Menin Gate Parade the cadets had the privilege of marching through the streets of Ypres in uniform. Padre Ryk Parkinson, associate priest of Wisbech St Mary, conducted the short service at Tyne Cot. Major Mark Knight MBE, public relations officer planned the trip to Belgium.

The camp is only possible with the leadership of dedicated adults who give up their time.

“It was a great camp for the cadets especially the Chinook flight being one to remember. We offer these teenagers the ‘cadet experience’ which in turn will help benefit them in future years,” said Capt Trevor Longmuir, Wisbech detachment commander.

The Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire and honorary colonel, Sir Hugh Duberly, visited the cadets at Folkestone. He spent a day with them and presented Cpl Craigie, from March, with his certificate upon being appointed as one of his two lord lieutenant’s cadets.

Later in the week the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire, Capt (retired) Victor Lucas, with members of the Cadet Supporters League visited.