A GROUP of cadets has joined in the battle to prepare a community farm for its yearly invasion of visitors.

The cadets, from the Port Clarence Detachment (A Company), rolled up their sleeves and got their hands dirty, along with volunteers and staff from the Tees Valley Wildlife Trust and Stockton Borough Council, to tidy up around Clarences Community Farm, Port Clarence.

They helped clear the pond, construct fences, trim hedges and carry out general maintenance work around the farm.

Jonathan Pounder, Tees Corridor project officer with the trust, said: "This was a great opportunity for local people and the cadets to get involved with improving their local environment, helping both themselves and the community.

"Through the work, people gained new experiences and skills, while having fun, and the farm also benefited."

It is hoped that the cadets' environmental work will continue in the community, with the support of the trust and the Clarences Community Partnership.

Projects planned for the future include the design and construction of a community garden.