The Holsworthy Detachment of Devon Army Cadet Force (ACF) has held a virtual event to celebrate achievements made this year in spite of the pandemic.

The unit has functioned virtually since March with just a couple of weeks down time.

Activities have included first aid and field-craft training as well as quizzes and virtual presentations on the police, air ambulance and local ambulance services and also physical training.

In November the detachment created a virtual Act of Remembrance to honour the fallen.

On Monday, December 14 the 20 cadets and their five adult volunteer instructors were joined by the Commandant of Devon ACF Lt Col Leigh Skelton, Deputy Commandant Lt Col Joe Martin, Officer Commanding for North Devon Major Phil Clarke and Mayor of Holsworthy Councillor Helen Parker who presented the Holsworthy Town Council “Best NCO” shield to Sjt Kaya Kirby.

Cadet Jess Larkum was named ‘Best Recruit’ and Cadet Malachi Challis ‘Best Cadet’ receiving trophies from Detachment Commander Lt Jim Harvey.

Virtual Quiz Champion LCpl Lydia Girdler received a trophy from Detachment Second in Command Sjt Summer Ashbury, who herself received promotion Staff Sjt from the Commandant.

There was a short video of well wishes from friends of the detachment including County Councillor Barry Parsons who praised the unit for its activities within the local community.

Lt Col Skelton added: “A great evening of celebrating success and achievement, in and out of lockdown, by Holsworthy detachment. It was a real delight to be part of such an uplifting event that demonstrated the commitment, resilience and resolve of our Cadets and adult role models. Holsworthy detachment I salute you.”

Detachment Commander Lt Jim Harvey said: “It has been a trying year for the whole country but I am proud to be DC to such a fine team of both cadets and adult instructors.”

For more photos from the detachment search Facebook “Holsworthy ACF”.

For more information on joining email Lt Jim Harvey [email protected]