A NEW Army cadet building has been opened in the grounds of a school, in a joint initiative aimed at boosting cadet numbers.

The new facility and cadet detachment, based at Thirsk School and Sixth Form, is the result of a venture between the school and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (RFCA).

It was opened on Friday evening (February 1) by Thirsk and Malton MP Anne McIntosh. It replaces the cadets' previous premises in the centre of Thirsk, which was a building next to the protected heritage site of Castle Garth, which restricted access and training.

The new building includes a drill hall, offices and kitchen and the surrounding areas can be used for activities, such as field craft and drills.

Captain Ian Robinson, chairman of the RFCA in Yorkshire and The Humber, said: “It’s not often we have the opportunity to create a new unit from scratch in such a short timeframe, but with the support and partnership of Thirsk School we’ve been able to give the cadets a modern facility in an ideal environment for them to get the most out of being in the Army cadets.”

Headteacher Stuart Mason, Headteacher of Thirsk School & Sixth Form, said: “It is very important to us as a school to be a part of, and contributing to, the community in which we serve and we were delighted to be able to assist the town’s army cadet unit.”

Thirsk Army Cadet Force is run by volunteers and is always keen to hear from adults who would like to get involved. No military experience is necessary.

Any young people aged 13 to 18 interested in becoming cadets should call in to the detachment on Tuesdays or Thursdays, 7-9pm, or call 01904-490529 to find out more.