Fire cadets on mercy mission

TWO fire cadets from Warrington are among a party from across the Cheshire who have set off on the mission of a lifetime to help poverty-stricken youngsters in Ghana.
David Robinson and Keith Roberts are in the 15-strong party from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service which will help complete refurbishment of a kindergarten school in Abordahi in the Volta region of Ghana.
This will provide young villagers with the education they need to give them the best possible chances in life.
In spite of the difficult economic climate in the UK and sitting their own school exams, the cadets – all aged between 16 and 17 – have funded the trip by raising a staggering £15,000 through car washes, packing bags in supermarkets, bungee jumps and securing sponsorship from local organisations.
Fire Authority chairman Cllr John Joyce, said the achievement illustrated precisely why he and fellow members strongly support Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service’s impressive range of work with young people.
He explained: “The cadet scheme is just one of the ways the service engages with young people to enrich their own lives and those of others.
“This trip will make a real and lasting difference and has given the cadets the opportunity to shine as ambassadors not only for the service, but also for the young people of Cheshire, Halton and Warrington.”
Using tools and equipment purchased through their own fundraising efforts, the cadets will help villagers refurbish the kindergarten.
They will then take part in a colourful opening ceremony and present to village elders the furniture, books and educational materials for which they have raised the money and shipped to Ghana ahead of the visit.