THREE female Army cadets have been promoted to lance corporals.

Helen Falla-Raw, Annie Walker and Jodi Stevenson, from the Northallerton Detachment, have received their first ever promotion, from cadets to lance corporals in the Army Cadet Force (ACF).

The 16-year-old Northallerton College students received their promotions from commanding officer Major John Cooper.

Helen has joined her older brother in the ACF.

Jodie is a keen swimmer who is looking to represent her company and hopefully her county in the ACF swimming championships.

Annie was voted Cadet of the Year 2012 by her fellow Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and regularly takes part in ACF shooting competitions.

She said: “When I first joined I was quite shy, but taking part in all the different activities and meeting so many new people has really increased my confidence. I now feel as if the world is my oyster and there is so much out there for the taking.”

To find out about joining the Army Cadet Force or becoming an adult volunteer call 01904-490529.