Deputy Mayor welcomes new cadet for remainder of civic year

A dedicated Army Cadet from Dudley has been selected to accompany the Deputy Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Adam Aston, at civic engagements across the borough for the remainder of the mayoral year.

A dedicated Army Cadet from Dudley has been selected to accompany the Deputy Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Adam Aston, at civic engagements across the borough for the remainder of the mayoral year.

Cadet Corporal Layla Johnson, 17, has been chosen by The Dudley Detachment, B Company ACF to serve as the Deputy Mayor's Cadet. She will accompany the Deputy Mayor at a range of events, including forthcoming Remembrance commemorations and other civic occasions.

Layla joined the Army Cadet Force in 2021 and has progressed through the ranks, earning a range of military, leadership and first aid qualifications while playing an active role in community events, ceremonial duties and cadet activities across the Black Country.

The Deputy Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Adam Aston, said:

“I am delighted to welcome Layla as my cadet for the remainder of the municipal year. Her commitment, enthusiasm and achievements are a credit to her, and I am looking forward to working alongside her at events across the borough.

“Cadets make a valuable contribution to our communities, and I am pleased to have the opportunity to highlight the positive impact that uniformed youth organisations have on our young people.”

Layla Johnson said:

“I am honoured to have been selected as the Deputy Mayor’s Cadet. The Army Cadet Force has helped me develop confidence, leadership skills and lifelong friendships, and I am grateful for all the opportunities it has given me.

“This role is a privilege and an opportunity to represent the cadets and young people of Dudley. I am looking forward to supporting the Deputy Mayor and taking part in some of the borough’s most important civic events.”

Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said:

“Dudley has a proud history of supporting our armed forces community and working closely with cadet organisations. The council’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant reflects the high regard in which we hold those who serve, and I am pleased that Layla will be part of our civic activities in the months ahead.”

Dudley Council has a long-standing relationship with cadet organisations across the borough and continues to engage with and support serving personnel, veterans, reservists and cadets through a range of initiatives and community partnerships.