Shropshire Army Cadet Force Trust held their inaugural Regimental dinner to highlight the work of the Trust, but most importantly Shropshire’s Army Cadets.
The event, hosted at Venning Barracks in Telford, created awareness of the Trust to both corporate guests and the wider community. It was also an opportunity to advocate and encourage new volunteers to join the county and help to shape the lives of young people.
However, the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Cadets themselves.
Cadets bring value to communities and workplaces. They develop skills for life, gain vocational qualifications, understand working as part of a team and they know the importance of discipline – all attributes that enhance them as future employees of choice.
The Cadet Bligny Band and Bugles set the atmosphere for the evening by playing a stirring set list, before welcoming three brilliant Cadets to speak to guests. They each shared how being a Cadet had helped them to grow as a person and showcased some of their achievements and next steps:
Cadet Company Sergeant Major (CSM) Charlie Hall. Charlie has won a four-year apprenticeship with Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land, starting in September.
Former Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), Under Officer Joel Kelly, is now a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer. Joel is studying Biochemistry at University of Wales, Aberystwyth, and is also a member of the University Officer Training Corps (UOTC). Joel hopes to join the Regular Army.
Cadet Staff Sergeant Willow Chattington-Lowe. Recently selected as Shropshire ACF’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet for 2025-2026 and currently awaiting her GSCE results.
In a surprise announcement, CSM Hall was promoted to Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major: which is the highest rank a Cadet can achieve.
Their stories were emotional and moved the crowd to their feet – as they reminded everyone of the real impact the Cadet Forces have on young people.
Trust Chair, Dr. Graham Wynn OBE, also highlighted how businesses and organisations that have signed the Armed Forces Covenant, can demonstrate support to the Cadet movement as a whole by providing proactive support to local Cadet units.
As well as hearing rousing stories and seeing the Bligny Band and Bugles in action, the event was an enormous fundraising success – raising over £1000 towards the further development of their Cadets and Adult Volunteers!
Find out more about Shropshire Army Cadet Force Trust and how they support Shropshire’s Cadets and Adult Volunteers.
Learn more about the impact that the Cadet Forces have on young people across the UK.
Published 25/07/25
