Three Army Cadets in training for once in a lifetime adventure

Army Cadet Sergeants Jaimee McFarlane and twins Leah and Jorjia Clayton-Smith (all 17) will take part in Exercise Kwazulu Natal Venturer in August this year.

The girls, who have been with the Army Cadet Force for just under three years, are looking forward to a kayaking expedition, camping on the river bed, battlefield tours, safari trips and learning about the culture.

To be chosen for the trip, they have undergone a gruelling selection process, where their fitness, endurance, teamwork and leadership capabilities have been tested to the max.

They have attended two five-day training courses at Halton training camp in Lancashire, where they have received a recognised qualification in kayaking (BCU 2 star).

A spokesman said: “Although they are looking forward to the trip, the trio have had to put a lot of hard work and dedication in to raising the required funding to support this. Through a series of bag packing events at Morrisons supermarket, fundraisers at college and donations from several sources, they are now nearing their target.”

Royal British Legion President, John Anderson, also recently attended the detachment in order to present the girls with a donation from the Robert Fox Memorial Trust Fund.

Jaimee McFarlane said: “We are very grateful to everyone who has supported us with our venture so far: not many young people our age would have this opportunity, and I expect the experience will be one we will never forget”

l Are you interested in joining the Army Cadets or aged over 18 and want to make a difference to young people’s lives?

Why not consider becoming an adult volunteer?

Visit www.armycadets.com for more information.