TWO Leigh Army Cadets returned from camp in the Cumbrian Fells recently with new skills.

Chris Webster, a pupil at Hesketh Fletcher, and Tomas Hollings, of Culcheth High, (pictured) joined 500 boys and girls as members of the Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force at the 1999 annual camp at Warcop for an action packed two weeks stay.

The lads, both keen members of the Leigh detachment, tried rock climbing and abseiling, assault courses and sports, target shooting, canoeing, and expeditions on foot and mountain bike.

They also learned map reading, life saving and first aid.

Commandant of the Greater Manchester Force, Colonel Charles Connelly, said more adult leaders were needed to help put on such camps and to run detachments, and a new recruiting drive would be starting soon.

Membership is open to boys and girls and 13 to 18 and there is an urgent need for adult leaders in all parts of the county.

No previoous military experience is required as full training is given, which can include nationally recognised qualifications.

Anyone interested can obtain further information from the Force on 0161 237 3739.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.