HUNDREDS of youngsters showed off their military skills in Weymouth when a special open day celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Army Cadet Force.

Dignitaries, councillors, parents and military officials were among the 537 guests who flocked to the event at Chickerell Army Camp.

It was the first year that the Dorset Army Cadet Force (ACF) camp has been held in the county and it was deliberately planned to coincide with the prestigious anniversary.

South Dorset MP Richard Drax joined the spectators who watched the cadets put on a military parade and display.

The 367 cadets involved had all volunteered to take part and had worked hard in preparing the day’s programme.

Throughout the day the youngsters also took part in a gun run, first aid, radio broadcasts to other cadets in Scotland and adventure training, such as canoeing and obstacle courses.

The cadets were from four companies, which represented the north, east, south and west areas of Dorset.

Weymouth and Portland cadets were joined by their counterparts from Blandford, Sher-bourne, Christchurch, Poole and Bournemouth.

Chief executive officer of Dorset ACF John Bradshaw described the day as ‘a success’.

He said: “This year we held an open day because it was the 150th anniversary and it was planned so cadets, parents and local MPs could see what these young people do, it’s all great stuff. The open day was great for the community and it has been a good and positive experience for the cadets who can feel supported by their families.

“The fact that all of the cadets have volunteered themselves to be a part of the activities shows the dedication and enthusiasm that these young people have for what they are doing.”

As well as the activities throughout the day, stalls set up around the camp gave parents the chance to learn more about the qualifications and job prospects that came from being in the cadet force.

The open day was the final day of the camp, which had been going on throughout the week.