A TEENAGER from Stokesley has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the Army Cadet Force.

James Lewis, 17, a cadet sergeant major, has reached the highest level in the cadet force as a Master Cadet and in recognition of his achievement he has been presented with an award from the York Company of Merchant Adventurers, one of the oldest merchant guilds in the country.

Cadet Sergeant Major Lewis was described in his citation as “the perfect example of what can be achieved in the Army Cadet Force, through dedication, hard work and high personal skills and standards.”

In a ceremony which saw eight other armed forces personnel and cadets from across the region honoured with the Merchant Adventurers award, James received a specially engraved Tankard from the Governor of the Guild, Dr Philip Thake, at a ceremony in the Merchant Adventurers’ historic 660-year-old hall in Fossgate, York on Thursday, February 15.

Dr Philip Thake, the Governor of the Company of Merchant Adventurers said: “I am delighted to recognise all of these impressive young people and service personnel for their outstanding commitment and efforts to their services and communities. They have demonstrated a service above and beyond what is expected of them and are very deserving recipients of the tankard.

"We look forward to continuing our close links with the regular, reserve and cadet units of the armed forces, which do so much to contribute to our communities and protect our way of life.”

The Tankard Awards, were launched in the 1980s to honour the sailors of HMS York, and were later expanded to honour all three services and cadet forces.

Guests and recipients were also given a tour of the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, which was constructed in 1357 so the guild could conduct their business affairs, meet together socially, look after the poor and pray to God.