News
July 4th 2017
Cadet building nominated for award
Cadet Centre
A cadet centre in Melton Mowbray has been nominated for a Green Plaque Award, for being a building with heritage and historical importance.
The Drill Hall on Asfordby Road in Melton Mowbray is one of a number of properties shortlisted to receive a prestigious plaque that if successful will be presented by Leicestershire County Council.
Derek Simmonds with the book he’s published about the Melton Drill Hall
12 buildings made it onto the shortlist, with the Drill Hall being unique in that it is used by two different Cadet Forces, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadet Force (LNR ACF) and 1279 (Melton Mowbray) Squadron Air Training Corps.
Originally built in 1914 for the Territorials, A Squadron Leicestershire (Prince Albert’s Own) Yeomanry, the building has been in constant service since its construction. The building has served soldiers marching off to fight in World War One, been used as a Territorial Army Centre and later as a Joint Cadet Training Centre.
The Leicestershire County Council Green Plaque Awards are awarded to people and places around the county, nominated and voted for by local people.
Derek Simmonds is pictured with Melton Detachment of LNR ACF with Detachment Commander Sergeant Mercedes Britton
There are six commemorative plaques to be presented and the last day to vote is Monday 31 July. If you would like to vote for the Drill Hall visit https://www.leicestershire.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/history-and-heritage/green-plaque-awards-scheme
The Drill Hall is managed by East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA). Martin Capewell, Head of Estates, said: “We are delighted that the centre has been nominated for an award and that it was shortlisted. The building has a varied history and is well-used by many young people who are members of the local Cadet Forces. Voting is quick and simple, and I believe the Drill Hall would be a very worthy winner.”
"We are delighted that the centre has been nominated for an award and that it was shortlisted. The building has a varied history and is well-used by many young people who are members of the local Cadet Forces. Voting is quick and simple, and I believe the Drill Hall would be a very worthy winner.”
