Cadets were put through their paces in competition testing how well they faced emergency situations.

More than 120 volunteer police cadets aged between 14 and 18 take part in the fifth Annual Police Cadets County Competition at Police Headquarters in Welwyn Garden City last Sunday.

The teams had to take part in emergency exercises such as a road accident, a hostage rescue assault course and arresting suspects in a shoplifting scenario.

There were 12 exercises in total including air rifle shooting, a search using dogs to find drugs, radio communications and taking apart and rebuild a handgun as quickly as possible.

As well as the physical trials like a shield run, a 500m run in riot gear and carry riot shields, cadets were also judged on how well they gave evidence in court in front of real magistrates and lawyers.

The teams were made up of 11 cadets from each of the 10 districts across the county which has nearly 300 police cadets.

The St Albans cadets took home the title with Hatfield announced as runners-up and Hertford coming third.

More than 200 guests attended to show their support and more than 80 volunteers helped make sure the events ran smoothly.

The cadets paraded and were inspected by Chief Constable Charlie Hall, Hertfordshire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner David Gibson and the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire Will Hobhouse Esq.

Mayors from across the county were also in attendance for the day which was concluded with presentations and awards.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner David Gibson said: “The Commissioner, David Lloyd is a huge supporter of the police cadets and is committed to developing and expanding the number of cadets in Hertfordshire.

“Cadets exemplify the key principles of the Community Safety and Criminal Justice Plan – which is based on the belief that keeping Hertfordshire safe is everybody’s business and volunteers who are part of schemes like the police cadets are a big part of that.

“Now is a brilliant time for young people to join the scheme because there are great opportunities, such as the young leader role and the cadet to Special Constable fast track route, which currently has its first applicant going through the process in Hertfordshire.”

Chief Constable, Charlie Hall said: “The police cadets who attended this weekend should be very proud of themselves.

“By being put through their paces in testing scenarios, they displayed both mental and physical strengths and acquired great experiences which they can put to use if they wish to pursue a career in the police force or as life skills for the future.

“I am pleased that Hertfordshire is one of the leading counties in the UK with one of the highest number of police cadets and I’d encourage anyone who is interested in joining to find out more.”

For more information visit https://www.herts.police.uk/hertfordshire_constabulary/cadets.aspx.