Staffordshire’s Young Police Cadets carried out their first uniformed duties at a high-profile charity event.
Eight cadets attended the High Sheriff’s annual ball at Thorpe Hall near Tamworth on Friday night, 28 June, where they assisted with car parking duties and engaged with guests.
The cadets initiative was one of Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis’s key election pledges. It aims to strengthen links between the police and young people and promote good citizenship.
Mr Ellis said: “I was so proud of the cadets who were out for the first time in uniform. They looked stunning and were a great help to guests.
“These youngsters are the future of Staffordshire and it’s fantastic that they can develop new skills and self-confidence as they serve their communities.
“And because local businesses are supporting the scheme, Staffordshire Young Police Cadets aren’t costing the taxpayer anything.”
A video of the cadets in action on Friday can be seen at www.facebook.com/StaffsCadets
The first 33 cadets joined in April and are based at police headquarters in Stafford with further units to be rolled out across the county and city of Stoke-on-Trent.
Two different schemes are being developed for different age groups. Fourteen to seventeen year-old boys and girls can join the senior cadets and a junior scheme will cater for ten to thirteen year-olds.
Cadets can also work towards Duke of Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold awards, having a go at hiking, climbing and orienteering.
For more details about Staffordshire Young Police Cadets visit www.staffordshire.police.uk/cadets
