NWP Cadets get set for the Crogen Cadet Challenge

Nerves of steel and the skills of circus performers are two things North Wales Police Cadets will need tomorrow as they go head to head with teenagers from other agencies in a bid to lift the Crogen Cadet Challenge Cup.

Negotiating high ropes, swamp crossing and bridge building are just three of the tough challenges that await the15 teenagers from NWP as they compete against Cadets from the Air, Sea, Army and the NW Fire and Rescue Service.

The event on Saturday, September 26, will take place on the Crogen Estate near Corwen – which is the home of the High Sheriff of Clwyd.

Under the watchful eye of safety personnel, the teams are expected to complete six equally demanding challenges which, according to organizers, are not only designed to sap energy but test endurance, stamina and mental agility. The challenges are also designed to test the teenagers’ team work to the limit.

Sergeant Melanie Brace is the Cadet Coordinator with North Wales Police and has helped get together the team of police Cadets. “It should be a great day and I know that the Cadets will do their very best in all the challenges. As a Cadet, team work is an important element of their role and I’m sure all 15 will relish the challenges that await them!”

The team of Cadets from North Wales Police consist of mixture of teenagers who have just been accepted onto the two-year programme and others who have just completed it.

It is the first time the Crogen Cadet Challenge will be held and it is hoped that it will become an annual event.

Speaking about the day, High Sheriff of Clwyd, Major Henry Robertson said: “Young people often receive undeserved criticism from society, this event is a wonderful opportunity for those taking part to highlight the exciting opportunities and character building which being a Cadet can provide”

“It is intended that this event will take place on an annual basis, and indeed we will be introducing a further challenge to the overall competition from next year, which will require those taking part to undertake charitable and voluntary work within their local communities”

The High Sheriff added: “During my year as High Sheriff, I have been constantly amazed at the wonderful community work being undertaken by young people throughout North Wales, and I am pleased to have been involved in this exciting youth project.”

“I would also like to thank the many sponsors and organisations who have cooperated and assisted in making this venture possible.”

The day is open to the public and all proceeds from the event are to be donated to ‘Crimebeat’ the High Sheriffs registered charity which provides financial support to youth projects throughout North Wales.

Displays and other activities of interest will also be ongoing during the day and members of the wider policing family are set to make an appearance including the Mounted Section and the police helicopter.