The first cadet force of its kind in the region has been given the seal of approval by the former head of the British Army.

A new headquarters for the Combined Cadet Force at East Norfolk Sixth Form College in Gorleston has been officially opened by General the Lord Dannatt.

As well as a parade, the ceremony saw cadets who had achieved promotions also presented with their certificates and badges.

East Norfolk Sixth Form College was the first sixth form in the country to be granted approval by the Ministry of Defence to set up a Combined Cadet Force.

Since the first cadets joined in September 2019, the contingent has grown thanks to an increasing number of college students and to the formal partnerships with local secondary schools, including Lynn Grove Academy and Caister Academy.

Lord Dannatt said: ”Congratulations to all involved and especially to those who have received promotions.

Eastern Daily Press: General the Lord Dannatt officially opens the cadet headquartersGeneral the Lord Dannatt officially opens the cadet headquarters (Image: East Norfolk Sixth Form College)

"I first visited the contingent three years ago, and it is wonderful to see the progress that has been made and to open the new HQ.

"With the fundraising for a drill hall and the support from local schools, the contingent will continue to get bigger and stronger – keep up the good work.”

Funding for the new headquarters was provided partly through a sustainability grant awarded by the Combined Cadet Force Association and partly by the VIY Project.

Contingent commander Dr Simon Fox said: “The progress made in such a short time is amazing but there is still a lot more to do.

"The contingent aims are far-reaching, and we have already seen the positive impact that being a cadet has on our students.

"We want to be more involved in the local community and widen participation with our local schools."

College principal, Dr Catherine Richards, said: “Being part of the Combined Cadet Force community and giving our students experiences beyond their expectations has been a dream come true for us.

"We absolutely believe that what we do with the cadets is life-changing and I am so proud of what has been achieved already, but also very excited about the future."