ARMY cadets from Christchurch are set to support members of their community most in need.

To mark the army cadets' ‘community week’, which begins on Monday, April 23, cadets from the Christchurch Detachment of the Dorset Army Cadet Force are organising a special collection of food items in aid of the Christchurch Food Bank.

They are currently collecting tinned and packet goods, before taking the items to the Christchurch Food Bank at St Joseph’s Church in Purewell on Monday where they will help to package up food parcels.

Second Lieutenant Thor Elsson, the detachment commander for Christchurch, said: “The idea to help the local food bank came from the cadets themselves.

"They’ve been very proactive in donating things to take with us and are really looking forward to making a positive contribution to the work of the food bank.”

“The past 12 months have been one of our busiest ever in supporting charities, helping out in the local community and taking part in ceremonial activities.”

Previous community work has included raising money through bake sales for the Lord Dannatt round Great Britain sailing challenge, fundraising for Autism Wessex and the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, and helping out at the local marathon festival, the Bournemouth 10 mile run and also at the Mudeford RNLI funday.

Alongside this cadets have been preparing and participating in ceremonial activities to help honour the bravery and commitment of the armed forces, such as the prestigious Rifles Regiment Freedom of Christchurch Parade and the Royal British Legion Remembrance Parade.

Colonel Dick Taylor, county commandant, added: “The Army Cadet Force (ACF) is all about action, adventure, fun and friendship, but we also enjoy doing our bit for the community.

"All our cadets get involved in community activities as part of their training and their ‘Cadet and the Community’ activities also help them in working towards a Duke of Edinburgh's Award."

Colonel Taylor said the ACF is looking for more adult instructors to help support activities and stressed no previous military experience or high levels of fitness were required to take up a role.

"What’s important is common sense, drive and determination and the ability to communicate with young people," he added.