NOT even biting winds and freezing temperatures could dampen the spirits of March Army Cadets Steve Perrin and Mark Ellington and Wisbech cadet Marc Burgess. Sergeant Marc Burgess, 17, and Lance Corporal Ellington, 15, were part of a nine-man team that be

NOT even biting winds and freezing temperatures could dampen the spirits of March Army Cadets Steve Perrin and Mark Ellington and Wisbech cadet Marc Burgess.Sergeant Marc Burgess, 17, and Lance Corporal Ellington, 15, were part of a nine-man team that beat off four other teams from across Cambridge-shire to scoop first place in the cadet competition: Exercise Executive Stretch.Cpl Steve Perrin's team came a close second.Organised by Cambridge University Officer Training Corps and held at Coldham's Lane, Cherry Hinton, the competition tested the military skills of the cadets.The weekend saw the teams complete problem-solving tasks and demonstrate fitness on the assault course. They also demonstrated their first aid and tested their navigation skills during a night navigation exercise.Lance Cpl Ellington, who joined the Army Cadets two years ago, said: "It's been an exciting experience. It's been great to work with cadets from across the county and meet new faces."It has been cold, but that didn't deter us. We just sang cadet songs to keep morale high. It's been great fun, despite the weather."Cpl Steve Perrin,16, added: "We all have the cadet spirit and we are all here for the same reason; to have fun and learn new skills."Sgt Burgess said: "I was really chuffed to win the competition; we all worked hard as a team. It was a challenge, but that's what I like."All three cadets attend Neale-Wade Community College, March.March Cadet detachment meets every Thursday evening at its Gas Road headquarters. The Wisbech detachment meets every Tuesday evening at Sandyland. Anybody who would like information about joining the Cadets can visit either detachment on a meeting night, call Cambridgeshire ACF on 01223 862949 or visit the county web site at www. cambsacf.com