The county held its annual Cadet’s ‘Banners Parade’ at St Alkmunds Church, Shrewsbury and the service was led by the Officiating Chaplain Padre Fish.  St Alkmund’s Church, which stands in the centre of Shrewsbury, is the official church of the Shropshire Army Cadet Force.  In 2012 St Alkmund’s church, founded by a daughter of King Alfred in 912, celebrated its 1100th anniversary.

Cadets from all over the county turned up in force, along with family and friends for this special parade, accompanied by the Shropshire ACF Buglers. The High Sheriff was invited to attend the service and meet the Cadets and their families on this auspicious occasion in the ACF diary. Commendations were mentioned for outstanding cadets and Padre Fish gave an amusing sermon, with the help of visual props in the shape of 2 young cadets and a very young hopeful cadet – Padre Fish’ young grandson – about giving and sharing love in the world. It was a cold, crisp winters morning so the refreshments and biscuits following the service was most welcome, especially as it gave the opportunity for everyone to mingle.