DESPITE being under threat of closure, a West Somerset Army Cadet Force (ACF) platoon has been given a high rating at its Annual inspection.

Doniford Platoon made a plea for new adult volunteers a month ago and, if the volunteers do not appear soon, young people in the area will face losing their local youth group.

However, despite being under-staffed, the platoon still received an impressive rating of 'above standard' at its annual inspection.

inspecting officer at Somerset ACF Headquarters, Captain Simon Betty, inspected the Platoon on April 2 and concluded that it was in great shape "I am very pleased to see the platoon is well looked after and has a good programme in place for the cadets," he said.

"It is a shame that, because of the recent lack of regular staff, the cadet numbers have dropped and it is likely that the report grade will be downgraded as a result."

Following his inspection, Captain Betty presented awards to cadets who had completed training with the platoon.

Heartstart Certificates were given to Cadets Thomas Williams, 13, of West Quantoxhead, Elliott Morran, 15, of Watchet and Paul Brammel, 13, of Williton, who all completed training in emergency life support skills.

Cadet Jack Eveleigh, from Watchet, received his One Star Army Proficiency certificate for completing training and passing tests across nine military and civilian subjects from safe weapon handling to Citizenship and First Aid.

The 15-year-old was also awarded his first stripe on promotion to Lance Corporal.

He said: "It's great to receive these awards. I've had a lot of fun with my training and now I finally have something to show how hard I've worked.

"This is something I've been working towards for a while now and it's a good feeling to finally get my certificates and my first stripe."

Captain Jon Beake, adult instructor at Somerset ACF, said: "The Army Cadet Force training cadets receive prepares them to become responsible members of society and is designed to instil discipline and foster teamwork, self-reliance, resilience and leadership.

"Jack is testament to the success of the training we provide but we now need more junior cadets, as well as adult volunteers in order that the platoon becomes a thriving unit.

"After the announcement a month ago regarding the possibility of the unit facing closure due to the lack of staff, several potential adult volunteers expressed interest.

"However, the unit is yet to find candidates who are able to provide the commitment to enable the youngsters at the platoon to benefit from the full range of adventure training and educational opportunities on a regular basis."

For information about joining as a cadet or an adult volunteer visit http://www.armycadets.com/somersetacf">www.armycadets.com/somersetacf or phone Somerset ACF on 01823 284486.

Captain Betty is pictured presenting Heartstart certificates.