First teen in years given highest cadet rank

Arabella Mason, 17, is appointed as the new Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major for Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force

A 17-year-old girl from Gloucestershire has become the first person appointed to the most senior army cadet role in the county since before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Arabella Mason, who lives near Dursley, said she was "very proud" to have been made a Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major of the Gloucestershire Army Cadet Force (ACF).

The role is a senior leadership role within the county cadet unit, with responsibilities including taking on ceremonial duties in the local area.

As part of her role, Arabella attended the Cam and Dursley remembrance parade on Sunday and will attend her school's parade in Tetbury later.

Speaking to BBC Radio Gloucestershire, Arabella said: "I'm so proud to have the opportunity to represent the cadets and help everyone visualise not only the people who have passed but the people who have survived."

Colonel Matt Robson from Gloucestershire ACF said: "It was an absolute honour to appoint Cadet Sergeant Major Mason as my County Cadet Regimental Sergeant, the most senior army cadet in Gloucestershire; my first as commandment, and the county's first since the pandemic.

"She is a bright, committed and engaging cadet who serves as a role-model for our cadets across the county. She is brand new in the role, and we are looking forward to her growing into it over time."

Arabella said she had wanted to join the army since she was a child

Arabella joined the cadets four years ago, and said she had wanted to join the army since she was a child.

She said she was attracted to the cadets because of the team work and army career prospects.

"It was the best decision I've ever made. The friends you make and the opportunities cadets give you is ridiculous. I've managed to do so many cool things through cadets."

As the senior cadet in the county, Arabella's role involves supporting command staff, mentoring junior cadets and leading on exercises or parades.

The 17-year-old said she hopes to study fashion at Brighton University next year and take part in the University Officers' Training Corps - before deciding whether to join the army.