Portsmouth is celebrating the country’s first National Cadets Week with a series of events highlighting the role cadet units play in the city.
The week, which runs from 5 to 11 October, will also mark the 125th anniversary of the Volunteer Cadet Corps, which was formed at the Royal Marines Barracks in Eastney in 1901.
Portsmouth City Council says the city is home to a wide range of cadet units, giving young people opportunities to build confidence, develop leadership skills and gain valuable life experience.
Council leader Councillor Steve Pitt, who is also the authority’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “Cadets are such an important part of the wider armed forces community in Portsmouth. They teach leadership, build confidence and learn valuable life skills. Cadets also play a major role in significant events in our city like Remembrance and Portsmouth Armed Forces Day.
“During what is the country's very first National Cadets Week, we will be celebrating our thriving cadets community here in Portsmouth, and saying thank you to the adult volunteers who make the cadets such a success in our city.
“As the proud home of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth's armed forces community is part of the very fabric of our great city.
“National Cadets Week is the ideal time for young people to seek out a cadet unit near them and discover the many benefits and enjoyment that being a cadet brings.”
Events begin on Monday, 5 October, with a special gathering in Guildhall Square to mark the 125th anniversary of the Volunteer Cadet Corps.
The event starts at 4.30pm and will include parades and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Lord Lieutenant. Current and former Lord Mayor’s Cadets are also expected to attend.
A second event will take place at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on Saturday, 10 October.
The free event runs from 10am until 4pm and will include field gun displays, live music, esports, STEM activities, maritime displays, virtual reality tents and opportunities to meet cadets from the Royal Navy, Army and RAF Cadet Forces.
Portsmouth City Council says it remains committed to supporting the wider armed forces community as an Armed Forces Covenant signatory and employs veterans, reservists, military family members and adult cadet force volunteers.
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