New Cadet Facility Launched at Kinmel Park Camp

So, What Did You Do During the Post-Camp Summer Break?

For most, the post-camp summer break is a welcome chance to catch up on rest. After weeks of high energy and full schedules, volunteers took some much-needed time to recharge their batteries. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, the Headquarters team rolled up their sleeves to tackle the huge task of checking and sorting all the camp kit. Their to-do list didn’t stop there—preparations also began for the return to training at Kinmel Park Cadet Training Centre and detachments across North Wales.

But while some were busy recharging or re-stocking, one person decided that summer was the perfect time for a challenge. Cadet Administrative Assistant Susan Williams took on the ambitious task of transforming the well-worn Amble Inn into something brand new: a dedicated space for cadets to relax and socialise. From this vision, Y Ddraig Goch Clwb was born.

Ddraig Goch Clwb Project

The idea originated from a simple yet crucial need. The Commandant and CEO recognised that cadets deserved a welcoming environment to unwind after busy training days. The Amble Inn, previously dark and outdated, was identified as the perfect candidate for refurbishment. With a clear objective, the CEO asked Susan to be the project lead, with a simple instruction “to create a modern, vibrant space to support cadet welfare and downtime” – the project began.

Susan wasted no time. Armed with a detailed to-do list, she got to work. Everything from choosing the colour scheme, arranging furniture, and planning the layout to sourcing activities and equipment was carefully thought through. New carpets, blinds, and lighting brightened the space, while painting and reorganising gave it a much-needed lift.

The results are remarkable. Y Ddraig Goch Clwb is now an inviting, airy space buzzing with opportunities for cadets to relax, recharge, and have fun. The facilities include board games, an Xbox 360 with Kinect, a reading corner, a football table, and a television. Most importantly, there is ample space simply to sit, chat, and enjoy downtime with peers.

Reflecting on her hard work, Susan said:

“I have absolutely loved working on this project, and it will give me pride to know that I have given something back to the ACF. It was pure enjoyment—a labour of love—working around my work commitments. There was sweat, tiredness, tears of joy and determination, but it was worth it to complete everything in time for the Minden Company Training Weekend on 27th September.”

She was quick to thank her fellow PSS colleagues and others who helped along the way, from heavy lifting to tackling the smallest jobs: “You have helped me massively. I cannot thank you all enough.”

Thanks to Susan’s dedication, Clwb Ddraig Goch is set to be a lasting legacy for cadets—a place where they can find laughter, friendship, and well-deserved relaxation after training.

Following a final inspection by the CEO, Vic Hughes, Susan invited Cadet Robin Jones-Parry, the youngest cadet on the weekend camp, to cut the ribbon to open Clwb Ddraig Goch / Red Dragon Club formally