ANIMAL care, homelessness and trampolining are not things you would automatically associate with St John Ambulance but they are just a taste of the broad ranging subjects and activities with which the cadet division can become involved.

All the fun of a youth club but with an underlying study of basic first aid and a bunch of life skills thrown in for good measure — that's the way the Okehampton division of the St John Ambulance cadet force would describe itself.

Acting cadet leader Judy Sanders is trying to entice young people aged 10-18 away from their computers and videos and into an organisation which has an 'awful lot to offer'.

'It's cheap, fun and sets them up for later life,' said Mrs Sanders. 'We are trying to give young people knowledge and interests and a chance to socialise in an environment which is safe and secure.'

St John Ambulance has been in existence in Okehampton for more than 50 years and once had a flourishing cadet and adult division. Changing work patterns, more demands on people's time and lots of other opportunities for young people have resulted in a drop in numbers in recent years.

There are currently nine cadets but Mrs Sanders wants to build that up to 16 regulars and hopes to do that with talks to schools in the area.

Cadet sessions are held on a Wednesday from 6.15pm to 7.30pm and the 20p fee includes refreshments

The present members have recently completed certificates in animal care and radio communications proficiency which go towards a cadet award. They have to complete various sections including care in the community, leisure, knowledge of the Order of St John and a society section which covers issues from homelessness to racism and drugs awareness.

Mrs Sanders is constantly looking for new interests and activities for the boys and girls and several have expressed a desire to learn sign language. Trips are also held with an outing to Bristol Ice Rink and Cadbury World planned for later this year.

All this together with assisting adult members on the ambulance at local events such as agricultural shows, Ten Tors and sporting events means there is plenty going on for cadets in Okehampton.

Anyone who wants to find out more can telephone the Okehampton St John headquarters on 01837 52210 or Judy Sanders on 01837 659292.