A GWENT instructor has been rewarded for his 18 years of loyal service to the Army Cadet Force (ACF) with the Cadet Forces medal.

David Griffiths, 41, from Llanfoist, has taught cadets across Monmouthshire and Powys, with detachments in both Monmouth and Caldicot.

He first joined ACF as a cadet when he was 12 years old and went on to volunteer as an adult instructor.

Mr Griffiths received his medal from the Commandant of Gwent & Powys Army Cadets, Colonel David Chipp. The Colonel thanked Griffiths for the work he has done for the young people of Gwent & Powys. He went on to say that “volunteers such as Sergeant Major Griffiths get to know each cadet individually and offer them a huge range of training, qualifications and challenges.

“They inspire young people to challenge their limits, become more independent, confident and able to step up to any challenge".

Griffiths, who you may spot out of uniform working at Baileys DIY in Abergavenny, said: “Many young people are missing out on the challenges and adventures that could transform their lives. The Army Cadets can change that. We give young people fun, friendship, action and adventure. We inspire them to challenge their limits and go further in life, no matter what they aim to do.”