Watch: Police cadets needed for new unit in Scarborough

North Yorkshire Police is building on the success of its first Volunteer Police Cadet (VPC) unit in York by opening a second unit in the seaside town in Scarborough.

It is looking for 20 young people, aged from 14 to 16, who live and study in the area, to join.

Temporary Inspector Martin McLachlan, who is leading the scheme, said: “This is a great opportunity for young people in the Scarborough area to do something different. The aim of Volunteer Police Cadets is to encourage a spirit of adventure, good citizenship and increase self-esteem and confidence. It will also help to promote a practical understanding of policing among young people and aims to inspire them to participate positively in their communities.

“Over the past six months we have seen our York recruits go from strength to strength, they’ve made new friends, learnt new skills, worked as a team, helped their communities, but above all, they’ve had great fun.”

After their first three months of initial training, cadets will take their oath at a passing out ceremony attended by family and friends. At this point, cadets are issued with their uniform.

During training nights, which take place on weekday evenings during term time, cadets will learn about policing duties, policing skills and basic law, as well as taking part in physical activity and drill.

In addition to training, cadets are expected to contribute at least three hours each month to cadet duties, which range from assisting with community events, helping police teams with leaflet drops, crime prevention and community safety events, street surveys, and as role play volunteers in the training of student officers.

Recruitment opens on 1 June and closes on 31 July 2016.

For more information and to apply, visit www.northyorkshire.police.uk/cadets