Tri-Service
Investigation After Suspected Drug Use At Military Training Camp
Nine cadets have been taken to hospital following suspected drug use at a military training camp.
A police inquiry is underway into the incident at Altcar Training Camp in Hightown, Merseyside. All those taken to hospital have since been released.
A spokeswoman said: "Merseyside Police can confirm that they have commenced an investigation at Altcar Training Camp after a number of young cadets became unwell overnight [Saturday] following a suspected drug-taking incident.
"The exact circumstances cannot be confirmed at this time, however nine young people have been examined at two local hospitals and since released.
"At this time, it is believed that no other cadets have been affected. Parents of other children who attended the camp this weekend and who have any concerns about the health of their children should seek appropriate medical advice."
The camp is owned and managed by the North West of England and The Isle of Man Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association (NW RFCA).
According to its website it is "one of the UK's premier facilities for small arms marksmanship training" within an estate of 620 acres of beaches, sand dunes, fields and small woods.
It adds that in any year more than 16,000 sailors, soldiers, airmen and women or service personnel learn their rifle skills at Altcar before being deployed to military activity throughout the world.
In the village of Hightown, 12 miles from Liverpool, the site is also used for other military and civilian activities and training. An Army spokesperson said:
“We're aware of an incident at Altcar Training Camp involving members of Merseyside Army Cadet Force. Merseyside Police are investigating and so it would be inappropriate to say anything further at this stage.”
Cover photo courtesy of Ray Forster via Flickr.
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