Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis joined the Staffordshire Police Cadets at a traditional country fair over the weekend.
Mr Ellis spent the day talking to members of the public at Clifton Campville Country fair, near Lichfield and Tamworth, whilst the Police Cadets played a key role in the event.
As well as performing official duties, such as car park attendance, the Cadets also demonstrated a variety of police drills and took part in a crowd-pleasing ‘beat-the-bobby’ penalty shootout.
The Cadet scheme was a key pledge for Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis. It aims to strengthen links between the police and young people and promote good citizenship.
He said: “In just over 12 months since the first unit was launched, the service has made a real difference to the lives of around 100 young people. I’ve heard several stories about how being a Cadet has turned around a young person’s life – giving them confidence and a sense of purpose and responsibility.
“Today’s been a fantastic opportunity for me to tell people about the work we are doing in Staffordshire and for the Cadets to shine as well. The public’s response has been great with many people offering their praise and encouragement for the scheme.”
The Cadets also promoted their JustGiving scheme through which people can make donations of £2, £5, £10 or any other amount by texting ‘CDET17 £2 (or another amount)’ to 70070.
Mr Ellis has stated that he will not redirect money that’s used for frontline policing to fund the Cadets Service, so donations will help pay for uniforms, equipment and transport for the youngsters.
For more information on Staffordshire’s Police Cadets, including details about the new Junior Police Cadets, visit www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets/
For more information on Clifton Campville Country Fair visit www.cliftoncampville.com
