ARMY Cadets in Sidmouth were delighted to be handed their first ever standard this week thanks to the efforts of two local organisations and a detachment member’s granddad.

ARMY Cadets in Sidmouth were delighted to be handed their first ever standard this week, thanks to the efforts of two local organisations and a detachment member’s grandad.

Youngsters say they will march with extra pride at Remembrance events this weekend after being handed their own banner on Monday.

The town’s Royal British Legion (RBL) branch and the Sid Vale Association (SVA) teamed up to net cadets the �350 standard.

Cadet Amber Worsley’s grandad Norman, who served in the Royal Airforce, approached the RBL when he realised the unit was the only armed forces group in town without a standard. Sidmouth RBL chairman Dave O’ Connor, took up the cause and approached the SVA in a bid to secure Keith Owen Fund cash.

“I was over the moon, they paid for the lot,” said Mr O’ Connor.

Army Cadets Sidmouth Detachment Commander Sergeant Adrian Smith expressed his gratitude and hopes the standard will help the unit go from strength to strength.

“We’re extremely thankful,” he said, “The fact the cadets have got their own banner generates more of a sense of identity and pride.” Cadet Amber, 15, hailed the “wonderful” occasion and said: “We’re really pleased we can march with it on Remembrance Day parades.” SVA representative Barry Jones described helping secure the unit’s very first standard as “a great pleasure,” and added: “I know Keith Owen would be thrilled that some of his money is being used in this way,”

He told cadets: “I hope you will look up to it and parade proudly at all the important events in our town and in our neighbourhood.” The Reverend Robin Laird dedicated the standard in front of 20 cadets, dignitaries, parents and members of involved organisations.