ARMY Cadets in West Somerset are facing a crisis because of a drop in the number of adult volunteers to support them .

Two platoons - Minehead and Doniford - face closure and are appealing for new adult volunteers to save the day.

If new volunteers do not step forward, both Army Cadet Force (ACF) detachments could close - leaving West Somerset with no Army Cadets to represent the area.

Robert Smith, whose 12-year-old son Harry is a Minehead cadet, said: "Harry really enjoys the Army Cadets but I know the unit in Minehead is struggling to get adult volunteers.

"I run a football club, so know how tough it is, otherwise I'd help. I just really hope the platoon doesn't fold due to lack of staff. It would be a real shame and Harry would be devastated."

Captain Jon Beake, Cadet Officer at Somerset ACF, said: "Unfortunately, in recent months the number of adult volunteers in the area has dropped drastically, and if others do not come forward soon, cadets from Minehead, Watchet, Williton and Doniford will face losing their platoons."

"The ACF is a charity which is highly dependent on volunteers who can dedicate their time to motivating, training and inspiring young people in their local area.

"In turn, the volunteers reap rewards such as professional training and qualifications, personal development, an enhanced CV and even the opportunity to play a leading role in a range of exhilarating activities overseas.

"It would be a great shame to see young people in West Somerset lose out on opportunities with the cadets due to the lack of volunteers."

Volunteer levels are now so low at Minehead platoon, the cadets can only meet up once a week.

If the number of volunteers drop any further, 25 West Somerset cadets face losing their youth group which gives them the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of fun activities, including rock climbing, canoeing, mountain biking, archery and abseiling.

Somerset ACF Company Sergeant Major Graham Corner said: "The unwritten rewards are unreal in the Cadets.

"You take pride in your own achievement and that of the cadets, respect for the effort that cadets put in,friendships, loyalty ... the list goes on.

"The ACF also constantly surprises me with opportunities to take part in things, even as far as attending a Buckingham Palace Garden Party.

"We just need more volunteers to join and enjoy these benefits whilst helping our cadets."

No previous experience is necessary to become an adult volunteer. Anyone interested in applying should contact Elaine Hunt at Somerset ACF on 01823 284486 or email aosomacf@[email protected]">[email protected].