Cadets hit the great outdoors for training
FIRE cadets from Widnes have been brushing up on their outdoor skills as they train for their Duke Of Edinburgh (DOE) Award.
A total of 50 cadets – including ones from Widnes, Northwich, Chester, Tarporley, Knutsford, Congleton and Macclesfield – have been map reading, pitching tents and cooking outdoors as part of their DOE training.
The cadets also embarked on a single day’s walk and a two day walk around Winsford and Northwich.
In small groups of six, the teams started and finished both walks at Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service (CFRS) headquarters, following a circular path of 20km, carrying all of their equipment including tents, food and cookers, before camping in the grounds at the Winsford HQ.
They then cooked their own meals using stoves.
They will head out again in June, this time not accompanied by an escort, to complete their qualifying expeditions around Delamere.
CFRS cadet manager Vicky Wrest said: “These events were training for the award they will complete later in the year, but if these days are anything to go by the cadets will pass with flying colours!
“If anyone is interested in becoming a Cheshire fire cadet don’t hesitate to call.
“All cadets are given the opportunity to complete the Duke Of Edinburgh Award for free, which looks fantastic on your CV.”
A CFRS spokeswoman said that the award is ‘prized by universities and employers’.
It is also the UK’s leading youth achievement award and offers a range of valuable experience for young people from volunteering to life skills and expeditions.
Those interested in becoming a Cheshire fire cadet call 01606 868 427 or visit www.cheshirefire.gov.uk