A RECRUITMENT drive for a local branch of the St Johns Ambulance has been hailed a huge success.

The Thirsk and Northallerton branch of the charity now has 12 new cadets, between ten and 16 years of age, from around the area.

The campaign to attract more members was launched by divisional officer Sheila Hansen, with the help of assistant cadet leaders Michelle Porter and Lee Trevarthen, after the number of cadets at the branch dipped sharply.

Mrs Hansen said: "We put our posters up in almost every shop in Northallerton and in the the Friarage Hospital shop. All were very supportive.

"The result has been wonderful. Once again have a thriving cadet unit catering for youngsters. This means we have something very solid to build on because the cadets are the lifeblood of St John Ambulance."

The programme for cadets includes ambulance first-aid and care, leadership courses, public duties at a wide variety of events, competitions, camps, sports and outdoor activities.