WILTSHIRE Police has rewarded its Volunteer Police Cadets at an awards ceremony attended by 85 cadets. New cadets from Swindon, Chippenham and Trowbridge were attested. There were also commendations and awards for Unit Improved Cadet of the Year, Unit Cadet of the Year and High Sheriff Cadet of the Year.

Wiltshire Police’s Youth Lead Sergeant Steve McGlynn was joined by Assistant Chief Constable Paul Mills, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon Angus Macpherson, Head of Crime Prevention Superintendent Phil Staynings and Superintendent Sue Austin. Other guests included former High Sheriff Lady Gooch.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “The commitment, enthusiasm and standards that the cadets have shown throughout the year have been exemplary. Their participation in the scheme is on top of other competing demands such as school work, exams, other hobbies and spending time with family and friends.

“The Chief Constable, Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Officer Team are all exceptionally proud of the cadets and our cadet scheme.

“We all share the aspiration, to ensure that young people are able to play an active and important part in policing within the county.”

Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, said: “I am a big supporter of the cadets and have been closely following their progress since 2014 when the pilot scheme began in Swindon.

“Volunteering is something that is very close to my heart and is an important element of my Police and Crime Plan. I’m thrilled to see this police cadets scheme up and running.

“The cadets and I are often on the same event circuit so I have seen at first-hand the very positive change that happens during the first few months after they join”.

Sgt Steve McGlynn said: “As a result of the cadet’s devotion, the scheme is going from strength to strength. There is an ever growing waiting list to join and we are continuing to look at how we can develop so young people and the community can get the most out of the opportunity.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank parents and carers, the cadet leaders and volunteers. None of this would be possible without their help and support”.

Details of the recipients are as follows: