THE BRIDPORT Army Cadets had a special guest as the cadets made their pledge of allegiance - just twelve months after the detachment nearly had to close.

Angus Campbell Esq HM Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset was received as guest of honour by the town's cadet detachment. He was joined by parents, family members, other dignitaries and cadets from Beaminster to observe some new cadets take a pledge of allegiance to the Dorset Army Cadets Force.

A number of cadets were also presented with other certificates, including those for First Aid & Heart Start qualifications.

Guests were shown around the cadets' displays, in which they showed off their target shooting and cooking of army rations as well as the Duke of Edinburgh Award camping equipment.

Sgt Neil Braginton, Bridport ACF detachment commander, said: "Bridport ACF detachment welcomes new cadets aged 12 to 18 yrs to learn new skills, have fun and meet new friends, we also welcome new adult volunteers from the who want a challenge, learn new skills and support cadets in their community."

This prestigious visit comes after the detachment nearly closed about 12 months ago when it only had one cadet.

Now, the unit has come back from the brink, with a total of 14 cadets and two adult volunteers.

Bridport Army Cadets is still looking for even more young people to join their ranks, an opportunity which is open to anyone from year 8 onwards aged 12 to 18.

To find out more, visit armycadets.com/join-cadets/register/