DOWNTON Army Cadets welcomed a royal visitor to see first-hand the success of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE).

HRH The Earl of Wessex joined the detachment as part of celebrations to mark the charity's diamond anniversary this year.

Within Wiltshire, the Army Cadets has 150 cadets undertaking their award at bronze, silver and gold level.

During his visit he met with the cadets and was able to see the different activities they take part in, including archery, which he was able to try out for himself. 

detachment commander of the Downton Army Cadets, Tim Williams said the visit went "very well". 

"The cadets excelled themselves and were a credit to their unit and the army cadet force," he said. "They thought it was brilliant. The cadets from Downton were very proud to have met the Earl of Wessex."

As part of the diamond anniversary, The Earl of Wessex is travelling around the UK to help celebrate the hard work of DofE Volunteers and the successes of DofE participants. He also visited the Sea Cadets in Salisbury.

Lucy Welch, the Army Cadet Force's DofE development manager, said: “Last year over 2,100 young people completed a DofE award with the ACF, with 180 going on to achieve the Gold Award.

"All of the cadets who took part benefited by developing their confidence and self-belief and gaining valuable leadership and team working skills.

"Getting a DofE Award is of huge practical benefit for our cadets, giving them something that is recognised and valued by employers and course leaders in the UK and around the world.”

As a trustee and a gold award holder, HRH The Earl of Wessex has championed the DofE for many years.

Peter Westgarth, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, added: “As we celebrate 60 years of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, it’s clear that the charity is an integral part of cadet life here in Wiltshire and around the UK.

"The award plays an invaluable role in the development of thousands of ACF cadets and adult volunteers in the community.

"It’s fantastic to see Downton Detachment being recognised for the outstanding work it does and enormous thanks must be given to the ACF volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that every DofE participant makes the most of this wonderful opportunity.”

The Downton detachment is looking for more young people and adults to get involved. To find out more go to armycadets.com