THE Wiltshire Army Cadet Force Corps of Drums and Bugles had a once-in-a-lifetime experience playing and marching with the Queen’s guards earlier this month.

The corps travelled to Wellington Barracks in London on November 5 only expecting to play with the Scots Guard in a practice room.

They were surprised when the Coldstream Guard Corp of Drums asked the 14 army cadets to play with them before the practice.

Another surprise was in store for the group in the afternoon when they were told that they would be leading both guard corps in the barracks’ parade square in front of hundreds of members of the public.

The cadets watched the changing of the guards and a performance from the Scots Guards before practicing with the group.

Then the Wiltshire cadets changed into a ceremonial blue uniform for the parade.

They were led by Drum Major Jon Coombs from the Wiltshire Cadet Corps of Drums and Bugles, who paraded alongside Drum Major Liam Rowley of the Coldstream Guards and Battalions Drum Sergeant Anthony Oliver.

Sargent Mike Coombs arranged the whole event and Staff Sargent Glen Wonfor arranged accommodation and meals for the weekend.

He said: “It was unbelievable, the cadets were so fantastic I had tears in my eyes, I was so proud of them.

“We’ve worked really hard and they’ve come so far

“I’m still on cloud nine to be honest.”

The eventful day concluded with visits to the Guard’s and Horseguard’s Museums before the tired but delighted group of cadets and their five adult instructors headed home to Swindon.

Sgt Coombs is hoping to recruit more cadets to the force.

Anyone aged 13 to 18 can join.

Visit the corps’ facebook page for more information: www.facebook.com/Wiltshire-ACF-Corps-of-Drums-and-Bugles-231092730370623