YOUNGSTERS in Rishton will soon be marching to join a new army cadet force to be created in the town.

Currently the nearest detachment of the volunteer youth organisation is based in Accrington, but cadet bosses are convinced there is enough interest in the area to warrant a new group.

It is hoped that up to 50 young people, aged between 13 and 18, will sign up for the new detachment, planned to be up and running in February.

Cadets will learn basic army skills, work in the community, and also have the chance to take a BTEC vocational qualification.

Cadet bosses have arranged a deal with the local scout group to use its headquarters, and are now waiting for about £1,500 to be released by the Army to pay for the hut to be upgraded to the necessary standard.

Major Mick Baddeley, cadet executive officer for the Lancashire Army Cadet Force, said: "If we can get the repairs go-ahead, I think without a doubt it's a go."

Danny Cassidy, set to become 2nd Lieutenant of the Rishton detach-ment, said: "Rishton and Great Harwood don't seem to have much for young people to do.

"The scouts use their building a couple of times a week, and we are going to be using it on a Tuesday and Thursday, from 7pm to 9pm."