Former cadets are being urged to contact the Wickford branch of St John Ambulance as the division seeks to find out more about its history.

Member in charge Karen Goodwin said: "Were you a St John Ambulance Cadet, meeting at the Methodist Church, Western Road, Billericay? Perhaps you used to help to run the division?

"If you did, we'd like to hear from you!

"Wickford Combined Cadet Division is trying to trace its history. At the moment our information is quite limited, but we are sure that there are lots of ex-members still living in the Billericay and Wickford areas who will be able to help us."

Mrs Goodwin said the Billericay Cadet Division had moved to Wickford and changed its name, but added that current members did not know why this had happened.

She added: "We'd be interested to hear from anyone who has a connection with the Cadet Division (either Billericay or Wickford) and would love to see any photographs or records of the division that you might have kept.

"Also, if you were a member of Wickford Adult Division (formed in 1979), we'd like to hear from you too!"

Meanwhile, Mrs Goodwin said the division is always keen to recruit new members. St John Ambulance is a voluntary organisation which provides medical cover at public events ranging from village fetes to rock concerts.

Anyone who thinks they might be able to provide information, or who is keen to volunteer, should call Wickford Cadet Division on 01268 761657.

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