
On the 29th November, I was invited to the new Lichfield Police Station on Eastern Avenue to celebrate our county’s cadets and hear about the experiences of two particular cadets.
Ella Venables gave an extremely touching presentation about how joining the cadets has changed the direction of her life for the better, providing opportunities that otherwise she would never have had. Ella was followed by Molly Paine, who also provided a very poignant presentation.
Molly’s story particularly inspired me, given that she has had a tough time and yet has the strength and fortitude to share her journey to recovery after undergoing a full live transplant. It was so moving that it has motivated me to register to become an organ donor.
Over the next few months Ella will be working with me to share her story with other young people who are perhaps on the wrong path and helping them to see that there are other, more positive, options open to them.
I wish both cadets – and all their colleagues – continued success in their future work. I was also delighted that the Lichfield Rotary Club presented a generous cheque to the Police and Crime Commissioner, Mr Matthew Ellis, to help ensure the cadets can continue the amazing work they do within our community.