POLISHED boots and pristine uniforms were the order of the day for a group of students when they arrived in Cornwall for a combined cadet force camp at Penhale.

The students from Budmouth Technology College, in Chickerell, spent a week competing against 11 other contingents.

The cadets were the first to join Budmouth's Combined Cadet Force which was established last October.

They were keen to practice the skills learnt during training weekends and on parade nights and eager to learn new ones.

During the week at Penhale they tackled canoeing, sailing, raft building, orienteering, military communications, rock climbing, patrolling, first aid, and section attacks. The cadets also spent an exciting day on the ranges to experience rifle and light support weapon firing.

The course culminated with several competitions including an assault course and a 'march and shoot' exercise.

None of the cadets had tackled the assault course before and their enthusiasm and determination was rewarded with silver medals.

The girls also claimed medals in the 'march and shoot' in a great effort after a day packed with physical activity.

WO2 John Donald said: "They showed tremendous team spirit, representing the College Cadet Force with impeccable behaviour and boundless enthusiasm.

"They returned home a little weary, but wearing the 2RTR cap badge to whom they are affiliated with pride."

Knowledge and experience gained during this first year as cadets has now allowed the young people to move up the promotion ladder, putting them in a position to help train new cadets who are due to start in November. Senior cadets are already putting their names down for next year's camp.