Rydal Penrhos’ Combined Cadet Force took part in a specialist training session with another regional company.

The school’s enthusiastic contingent made the short trip to the Army Reserve Centre of D Company, 3 Royal Welsh prior to the half term break, where they got to grips with a number of different weapons used in combat.

This was an introduction to the weapons system they will be using following the break during a training weekend with the 160 Brigade Cadet Training Team at Kinmel Park.

It has been an academic year to remember for the CCF group so far, which has gone from strength to strength since its inception under the expert leadership of Alun Brown and Phil Hilton.

They secured a prestigious honour by having the 1st Queens Dragoon Guards emblem on their uniform, who are commonly known as The Welsh Calvary.

Rydal Penrhos is the first CCF group in the country to have the Welsh Calvary as their sponsored regiment, and they received their Berets at a special ceremony in front of parents and family members recently.

Senior School head Sally Ann Harding, said: “Our Combined Cadet Force got a tremendous amount from their visit Army Reserve Centre of D Company, 3 Royal Welsh, which will stand them in good stead ahead of their upcoming training weekend.

“CCF has been an exceptional addition to our enrichment provision thanks to the hard work of pupils and the tireless commitment of Mr Brown and Mr Hilton.”