THEY came, they saw, they even tried the rations and survived!

Scores of youngsters from across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight took up the challenge to inspect the Army cadet force by attending open evenings.

And youngsters who visited the Winchester HQ were happy to try their hand at everything from first aid to map reading and drill.

The open evenings - held as part of a national drive to attract youngsters to the service - was a great success, said spokesman Mike Penfold.

"It definitely did us a lot of good and the response from the young people was superb. There were some very interested visitors.

"And in this day and age when you hear so much negative news of youngsters I think they should be applauded."

Mr Penfold said anyone who missed the open days but was interested in becoming a cadet should contact the ACF headquarters at Newburgh House, Winchester (tel 01962 865711) for further details on their nearest branch.

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