The dedication and service of eight people from across Powys were recognised at a special awards ceremony led by the King’s representative for the county.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Powys, Mrs Tia Jones, presented honours at an event held at the Elephant and Castle Hotel in Newtown on Thursday, January 15, attended by around 60 guests.

Three individuals were awarded the Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificate of Merit in recognition of their outstanding commitment and devotion to duty. The recipients were Reservist Warrant Officer Mark Collacott of 160th (Welsh) Brigade, Staff Sergeant Ian Corstorphine, and Warrant Officer Christopher Thompson, both of Gwent and Powys Army Cadet Force.

The evening also celebrated the achievements of the Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets for the past year. Cadet Staff Sergeant Harry Agnew of Gwent and Powys Army Cadet Force and Cadet Warrant Officer Max Morgan of No 2 Welsh Wing RAF Air Cadets spoke about their experiences in the role, which has seen them accompany the Lord-Lieutenant to official engagements including Remembrance events, parades and Royal visits.

Both were selected for the prestigious role after being nominated by their cadet leaders and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales. They follow Cadet Flight Sergeant Lexie Young of No 2 Welsh Wing RAF Air Cadets, recognised for her service as a 2024/25 representative.

A long service award was presented to Captain Paul Jones of Gwent and Powys Army Cadet Force, who received the 5th Clasp to the Cadet Forces Medal, marking 42 years of service.

The ceremony also included two cadet promotions. Harry Agnew was promoted to Cadet Company Sergeant Major, while Cadet Sergeant Megan Williams, also of Gwent and Powys ACF, was promoted to Cadet Staff Sergeant.

More than 4,500 young people are involved in cadet forces across Wales, supported by around 1,850 volunteer adult instructors and civilian assistants.