A GROUP of Bolton youngsters are spending their holidays learning new skills at an Easter Army camp.

The Bolton youngsters, aged 12 to 18, are joining 400 other young people from the Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force to learn new skills such as camouflage and target shooting.

Cadets based at Altcar Camp, near Southport, are learning about fieldcraft, first aid, use of map and compass, target shooting and marching drills.

The cadets are picking up survival tips and how to live and cook in the field. Many cadets will spend at least one night under canvas.

Senior cadets have travelled to Leek Camp in Staffordshire to further their military training in the field, learn about camouflage and concealment and take part in a military exercise.

Cadets are also undertaking an expedition in Snowdonia as part of the Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award.

A team of long-distance marchers is rehearsing for trials in a competition which they hope will lead them to compete in Holland later in the year.

The Army Cadet Force is a voluntary organisation for young people and is sponsored by the Army. It is run by volunteer adult youth leaders.

Cadets are provided with a varied programme of activities to promote confidence, leadership and self reliance in young people.

As well as attending camps, the cadets attend two parade evening each week at their local detachment.

Contact Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force on 0161 237 3739 for details.