Army cadets from across the Borders have been crowned Best in the Battalion with a clean sweep of trophies at their annual camp held at Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, writes Mark Entwistle.
Cadets from B (Border) Company, Lothian and Borders Battalion, Army Cadet Force (ACF) proved they were made of strong stuff by adding to their victory at the Battalion Athletics Championships by winning every piece of silverware that was up for grabs.
While at camp, as well as taking part a wide range of activities, including an overnight fieldcraft exercise, first aid training and a visit to Blandford Camp – home of the Royal Signals – cadets took part in competitions relating to subjects within their regular ACF training, such as drill and turnout, navigation and shooting. There was also the opportunity to score valuable points through activities such as archery and paintball, as well as potted sports and a fun quiz.
By the time it came to the prizegiving on the last day of camp, B Company was anxious to find out if the athletics success was to be repeated.
The cadets had every right to be confident, as well as being joint winners in the ‘stick orderly’ competition, designed for one male and one female junior cadet to show off their ACF knowledge, the company picked up every trophy that was on offer. These were the junior and senior military skills competitions, annual camp competition and, ultimately, the overall best company trophy.
Just 12 months previously, B Company ended the overall competition in last place.
Company commander, Major Alan Cook, commented: “It is through the dedication of both the cadets and the local adult volunteers that B Company has now come of age and has had a tremendous 12 months, cumulating in the presentation of the Lucas Tooth Trophy for best company in the battalion. This has been a long time coming and is thoroughly well deserved and a credit to all involved.”
These sentiments were echoed by second-in-command, Captain Bill Ponter: “After last year’s disappointing result it’s been a busy year with all concerned striving to do their best for B Company.”
The defence of the cadets’ title begins with the battalion swimming championships on August 18.