A fun-filled summer camp helped cadets overcome personal challenges and learn new skills.

Hertsmere Volunteer Police Cadets visited a scout activity centre set in 42 acres of woodland in rural Oxfordshire for a week-long summer camp.

Activities on offer included archery, climbing, wakeboarding and a zip wire, while the group also braved Jacob's Ladder, on which climbers have to work together to climb a ladder with wider gaps between each level.

The cadets, aged from 13 to 18, also paid a visit to RAF Benson to see the police helicopter and the air ambulance, and have a chat with the crews.

Hertsmere Borough Councillor John Donne, president of the cadets, said: “The cadets' leaders choose a different location for camp each summer so that the cadets can try their hand at new challenges.

“Once again, it was a great week and will, I'm sure, leave them with memories and experiences that will stay with them for the rest of their lives."

Cadets had raised money throughout the year to be able to subsidise the trip, with 18 cadets signing up to take part.

PC Ross Paybody of Hertfordshire Constabulary added: "It was a pleasure seeing the cadets overcome personal challenges and achieve their personal bests. Each cadet pushed themselves and by doing so gained new skills and confidence which will help them succeed in later life.

“I was immensely proud to work alongside a great team of volunteers who gave up their free time. Without the volunteer leaders, exciting new experiences like summer camp wouldn’t be possible."

Around 30 young people from across the borough currently attend the group, which meets on a fortnightly basis at Meryfield Community Primary School in Borehamwood.