Teenage boy from Whittlesey collects thousands of aluminium cans for the charity Helipads for Hospitals

Teenage Army Cadet Frankie Newbatt from Whittlesey has collected thousands of aluminium cans with the help of local people and business for the charity Helipads for Hospitals. Helipads for hospitals are appealing for aluminium cans, which can be recycled and used in the manufacture of helipads. This will allow helicopters to carry critically ill patients to save crucial time by landing closest to the hospitals.

The project is part of Frankie’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Course supported by the Army Cadet Force, challenging young people with a series of self-improvement exercises.

The Army Cadet Force also emphasizes community work. Previously, they conducted fund-raising activities for helipads for hospitals.

Frankie has been supported by his parents, Lisa and Matthew, who helped him to set up a successful social media campaign to spread the word. Frankie also wrote a letter to Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, asking for help due to The Prince’s connections with the local area and the Air Ambulance.

“I feel like this is a really good opportunity, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award should open doors for me in the future. Doing charity work for Helipads for Hospitals is a really good cause, and I’m really proud of my family for their help, and really pleased with all the support I have been getting from local people- its been fantastic,” said Frankie Newbatt.