PROUD parents and special guests gathered on Thursday to see Ellesmere Port’s Army cadets on parade.

Company Sergeant Major Paul Brentnal played master of ceremonies as he introduced the latest recruits to have completed their basic training.

Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Andrew Miller and his wife Fran were joined by mayor and deputy mayor Pat Merrick and Paul Donovan to help give out prizes.

Sergeant Major Brentnal said: “It is very important for the cadets and their parents to have this sort of recognition from our local dignitaries.

“It endorses the work we do with young people, helping them to gain positive experiences and qualifications.”

Mr Miller added: “I was delighted to join mayor Cllr Pat Merrick and deputy mayor Cllr Paul Donovan to present the Army cadets with their certificates at the recruitment enrolment ceremony. These young people are a credit to our town.”

Senior instructor Sergeant Gaz Cain gave special recognition to senior cadets Cadet Corporal J Gill and Cadet Corporal A McLeod, who had taken on the training of and provided exemplary role models for the young cadets.

Cadets Becky Dee and Amy Alman were awarded additional prizes for top student and most improved cadet.