Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is appealing for the publics help to re-open it’s first ever Fire Cadet Unit.

Poynton was the first fire station in the county to set up a cadet unit in 1992 but it has sadly had to be closed due to a shortage of leaders. The Service is hoping to re-establish it this year if new leaders can be found.

Being a Fire Cadet Leader Volunteer with Poynton Fire Cadets would be an exciting opportunity. With around 350 cadets (aged 12-17) in 23 locations in communities across the county, Cheshire Fire Cadets is the largest voluntary Fire Cadet scheme across the country.

The Service currently has around 100 enthusiastic and committed adult volunteers who help to lead, guide and inspire its cadets, but sadly non at Poynton.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Youth and Community Cohesion Manager, Nick Evans said: “I’m disappointed that we have had to close this unit temporarily and that the young people of Poynton aren’t getting the fantastic opportuntiy that others across the county are getting by becoming fire cadets, but I hope that we are going to find new leaders soon.

“If you spoke to any of our volunteer cadet staff they would tell you they do it because they love it. They enjoy the fun, friendship, action, adventure and practical activities the Fire Cadets provides. They also enjoy making a real difference to young people in their community – helping to inspire them to achieve formal qualifications, building their confidence, and encouraging them to think for themselves and to act for others.

“I think there is a misconception attached to the Fire Cadets as people think they have to have experience with the Fire Service, but that’s simply not the case. I am appealing to anyone who lives in the area, that has an evening a week free, to please get in touch.”

Joining Poynton Fire Cadets as a volunteer leader would be a great way to meet like-minded people and to have fun and, in return for a little time and effort, people will get the chance to learn new skills, gain new qualifications and help develop with their leadership potential.

There’s no set profile for a Cheshire Fire Cadet Leader Volunteer and they don’t have to have any fire service experience.

Nick added: “Being a Cadet leader is a really rewarding role and makes a real difference to young people in your community. I know that once you’ve joined, you’ll never look back so if you are intersted please get in touch and I look forward to welcoming you to the team.”

Telephone the Youth Engagement Team on 01606 868654 or download the application pack from http://www.cheshirefire.gov.uk/jobs/volunteers