A KENDAL postman has passed a rigorous selection process to be granted the Queen’s commission as an Army Reserve Officer in Cumbria Army Cadet Force.

Second Lieutenant Des Mallinson was promoted in the field by the Commandant of Cumbria Army Cadet Force, Colonel Tom McMullen MBE at Warcop Camp this weekend.

2Lt Mallinson relinquished his appointment as Regimental Sergeant-Major Instructor (RSMI) and will be part of the county adult training team, helping to pass on military skills such as weapon handling and skill at arms to new Cadet Force adult volunteers.

Des, 41, was a former Kendal cadet himself, and says he knows how important adult volunteers and officers are to the Cadet Force.

“I always remember Lieutenant Jez Bevan," said Des. "He was a former postmaster at Kendal and rose to be a Company Commander in Cumbria ACF. But it was Paul Wilson, my detachment commander and later my best man when I married Debbie, who got me involved with the cadets.”

Des has to balance his work with the Cadet Force with his job and his family.

“I have three daughters, Phoebe, Bronyn and Sabrina. Phoebe is a Cadet Lance Corporal in Kendal Detachment and I was incredibly proud when last year, she was presented to her Majesty the Queen, who is also the Colonel in Chief of our parent regiment, the Duke of Lancaster's.

“I would recommend joining the Cadet Force for any adult who wants to push themselves that little bit harder. I believe that in my time as an adult volunteer and lately, as the Regimental Sergeant-Major of Cumbria Army Cadet Force, I have gained both confidence and qualifications.

"I have also had many fantastic experiences and made lifetime friendships. Most of all, I want to give back to the young people of Kendal the benefits that I received as a cadet.

Cumbria Army Cadet Force says it is always looking for competent and reliable adults to help train the county’s future leaders.

For more information go to www.cumbriaarmycadets.com.