A YOUTH organisation hopes to recruit more youngsters who are looking to put some extra fun, friendship and focus in their lives.

Spennymoor Army Cadets has space for new members aged 12, and in school year eight, to 18 after a number of cadets left because they became adults.

Detachment Commander Natalie Neasham said: "The enjoyment, friendship, sense of belonging to the cadet family is incredible, the opportunities and experiences it offers are amazing and not just for those interested in the Army.

"We make the children that come to us into respectable, decent young adults and improve their discipline and self-belief."

She said activities range from sports, map reading and drills, shooting competitions and national first aid contests to community events, weekends away, overseas expeditions and annual camps.

Enrolment is £20 which includes uniform hire, boots need to be bought and a cadet bank enables people to save and pay gradually. For details visit a regular session at its Villiers Street base, on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6.45pm to 9pm.