More than 300 cadets from Sussex Army Cadet Force (ACF) visited Nesscliffe Training Camp in Shropshire to take part in exhilarating, fun and challenging adventurous training activities and military exercises for their annual summer camp.

The cadets, aged 12 to 18 years old, had a go at kayaking, mountain biking and abseiling as well as rifle shooting and archery competitions (pictured). In between white-knuckle activities, they practised their first aid skills, map and compass reading on orienteering courses, their military knowledge and safe weapon handling before spending three days on a field training exercise.

The cadets, under supervision of adult instructors, lived under canvas in 'bashas', and ate food cooked by themselves from 24-hour ration packs.

Seaford Cadet Lance Corporal Jacob Seymour, 16, said, "I have been an Army cadet for three years and have loved every minute of it.

"Annual camps are always great fun and this year has been fantastic."

Fellow cadet Emily Goff, 15 and a student at Seaford Head County College, added, "Being an Army cadet allows you to do something different.

"I have been a cadet for three-and-a-half years and joined because my friends and brothers are cadets."

Commandant of Sussex ACF, Colonel John Baber, said, "It has been an excellent annual camp. The weather has been favourable, the food delicious and the training extensive. The cadets and adult instructors alike have had a great time. We are already looking forward to next year's camp."

Sussex ACF's Headquarters is based in Brighton's Dyke Road and has three companies based across the county with a total of 27 detachments.

Further information about joining the Army Cadet Force in Sussex and the local detachment in Eastbourne is available on 01273 552222 or visiting www.sussexacf.demon.co.uk or www.serfca.org