Staffordshire Police Cadets from the Codsall unit had a special visit from South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson.
Mr Williamson attended the Cadet meeting at Codsall and Billbrook Fire Station to see the Police Cadets in action during their drills and speak to them about their experiences.
Sue Arnold, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Staffordshire, joined Mr Williamson in the inspection of the Cadets’ uniforms and their drill formation.
Commenting on his visit, Mr Williamson said: “This is a brilliant scheme not only giving young people an opportunity to build a sense of civic duty but also equipping them with leadership skills and an understanding of what makes a good citizen.
“It is clear from listening to the Cadets talk about their experiences that the scheme has had an incredibly positive impact on their lives and I would encourage young people between the ages of 14 and 17 to take part.”
During his visit Mr Williamson extended an offer for the Cadets to join him in Westminster for a day to find out more about Parliament.
The Cadet unit was also visited by Graham Dean, chairman of the Rotary District Vocational Services committee and Trudi Wakeman, Chair of the Brewood and District Rotary Club who attended to see the Cadets and how they could assist with events in the future.
Mrs Arnold added: “The Staffordshire Police Cadet Service is all about encouraging young people through a positive and vibrant programme. As expected the Cadets did themselves proud during Gavin’s visit.
“The Cadet scheme has had a positive influence to the lives of many young people in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and is all about giving advantages to young people through allowing them to gain life skills such as responsibility and discipline.”
The Police Cadets work towards several nationally recognised qualifications including team-working and citizenship. Many of the Cadets have found that through the scheme they are becoming not only more confident and outgoing, but that they are also benefiting both socially and academically, all while helping to build links between the police and young people.
Businesses are invited to become Patrons or Sponsors to help fund uniforms and equipment for the Cadets. In return for becoming a Patron, businesses’ contributions are recognised through publicity, a framed certificate and other opportunities.
To find out more information on the Police Cadets or how you can support the Police Cadets go to: www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/police-cadets
