A troop of Norwich army cadets is looking for help in funding to buy T-shirts and sports kits.

The army does supply a level of support and funding for the West Norwich Troop in Bowthorpe, which is part of the Norfolk Army Cadet Force.

But under officer Dennis Baldry, who has just been put in charge of the troop, said more help was needed.

He said: 'As troop commander I'm responsible for a selection of rifles and the training and equipping of 20 cadets.

'I think the West Norwich troop has been neglected for a while, in part due to its location in Bowthorpe, or more precisely Clover Hill. My troops come from a part of Norwich where there is little financial support available to them, and while the army does provide a level of funding and support it doesn't cover everything. 'My first goal is a few hundred pounds to buy 'troop' T-shirts and sports kit, and if I'm able to set up a 'boot fund' to help low income families fund the cost of boots, £30 a pair, I'll be pleased. The hope is that combining the military, young people and a disadvantaged area I can tick a load of boxes for people.'

Mr Baldry said the youngsters, aged from 12 to 18, should be applauded for joining an organisation that teaches them military discipline, team working, self-respect, adventure training and first aid skills.

'They do this rather than going off and getting into all sorts of trouble and they do it willingly week in week out,' he added.

If you can help, email reporter David Bale at david.bale2@archant.co.uk