Local Army cadets shared their experiences after their annual summer camp near Leeds this year.

The Clackmannanshire youngsters were among 300 others from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Battalion Army Cadet Force.

They took part in a range of activities including tackling tree top high ropes and assault courses, sleeping out under canvas, cooking army rations, chasing the wind in sailing dinghies, improving their marksmanship and paddling dragon boats.

Alloa Detachment cadets and twins Lloyd and Grant Deans (18), who were also involved in cadet pipes and drums, are leaving the cadets after their last camp. Lloyd said: “This is our last camp and the last thing we’ll do as cadets.

“A good thing is coming to an end, but hopefully it will lead to becoming an adult volunteer at some time. I learned to play the drums through cadets.

“The highlight has been playing for the Queen at Balmoral. It’s also made me more mature, given me life skills, taught me how to be independent and do things on my own initiative.” Both boys’ contribution has been recognised by Commandant Colonel Brian Hume, who promoted them at the end of camp.

Grant added: “Looking back I’ve made many friends and had many opportunities including the chance to go abroad with a battlefield tour as well as with the band.

“We played last year at the week-long Basel Tattoo in Switzerland. Being in cadets has given me a real boost. I would never have been able to speak to people the way I can do. It’s given me real people skills.” Young boys and girls between 12 and 18 can develop self-confidence, teamwork, leadership and responsibility through a wide range of activities including sport, adventurous training, first aid, military skills and community activities in the Army sponsored national youth organisation.

Billie Fotheringam (13), of the Tillicoultry Detachment, said he loved the fieldcraft and that he has “gained a lot more confidence from being in cadets”.

Alan Harvey (16), of the same detachment, added: “I like the sense of discipline and working as part of a team. That’s why I enjoy the marching. Being in cadets has given me opportunities to try new and different things and has given me a different outlook on life.” While sponsored by the army, the Cadet Force is not part of the military organisation and there is no commitment for members to join the Armed Forces.

In addition to the annual camp, cadets can take part on battlefield tours, leadership training, competitive shooting and overseas expeditions while working towards a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and many other vocational qualifications.

Adult instructors and helpers are also needed. No previous military experience is required. For more info visit armycadets.com/argyllsutherlandacf, find Argyll ACF on Facebook and Twitter or call the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Battalion ACF on 01389 763 451. There are detachments in Alloa, Alva, Tullibody and Tillicoultry.